A brutal, bloody clash.
The shockwaves it unleashed.
Were enough to shake the surrounding area for dozens of miles.
And this happened to be in the area closest to the Land of Fire. Although it was still quite a distance from Konohagakure, this was an important southern border region of the Land of Fire, and Konohagakure had stationed a sizable portion of its forces here to guard the border and keep watch. When they sensed the fluctuations of battle nearby,
"What's going on?"
"Is there a battle up ahead?"
"Looks like a big one, too!?"
"Stay on your guard! We'll go investigate!"
They made their decision in a very short time.
They left some of their forces behind to remain on alert and sent the rest to investigate the battle's center. The ninjas stationed at the border were all at least Chunin, and their leader was a Special Jonin. At such a great distance, he could still sense the intense shockwaves from the battle. He was certain the combatants ahead were at least elite Jonin, if not even stronger.
Or perhaps
it was a battle between two sizeable armies of ninjas.
Whatever the case,
as border guards,
they had a duty to investigate.
Especially in the current, unusual circumstances.
Any unexpected situation had to be reported to the village immediately.
Even though he knew the battle ahead would undoubtedly be dangerous,
the Special Jonin still decided to lead a few subordinates closer to the area where the fighting was taking place.
Though they concealed their presence and slowed their pace, the distance was not great, and the scouting party soon reached the heart of the battle. Their leader, Namiashi Raidō, had appeared a few times in the original story. He excelled at stealth and assassination, and his personal strength had