After returning to Konoha, Uchiha Ying Yue, Orochimaru, and Tsunade immediately headed to the Hokage Building to report on the situation at the Land of Rain battlefield to Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi.
The three entered the Hokage Office and saw Sarutobi Hiruzen sitting behind his desk, waiting for them with a serious expression.
Uchiha Ying Yue spoke first. "Lord Hokage, we have important information to report about the situation on the Land of Rain battlefield."
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded, indicating that they should continue.
Tsunade went on, "After several months of fighting, we've gotten a clear picture of the situation in the Land of Rain. Hanzo of the Salamander is far stronger than expected. He's not only skilled in poison, Taijutsu, and swordsmanship, but also commands powerful Water Release and Fire Release Ninjutsu. Under his command, the Rain Ninja are formidable. Even with Konoha, Sunagakure, and Iwagakure working together, it would be difficult to win in a short time."
Orochimaru added, "We've tried to assassinate Hanzo several times to end the fighting, but he has extensive combat experience and adapts his tactics with remarkable flexibility. Each time, we've returned empty-handed. His poisonous fog is impossible to guard against, and he's practically immune to our human-wave tactics. If we continue forcing an attack, Konoha will suffer enormous casualties."
Uchiha Ying Yue drew a deep breath and said gravely, "Orochimaru is right. We have to admit that Hanzo of the Salamander truly deserves the title 'Demigod.' If we keep attacking, our losses will be catastrophic. Not only will Konoha's shinobi die, but the village's resources will be severely depleted as well. Konoha will face an even greater crisis."
Sarutobi Hiruzen fell silent for a while, tapping his fingers lightly on the desk as he weighed the pros and cons.
He knew that Ying