According to Plan

"Tsunade, you'll be in charge of Konoha's medical logistics. Make sure injured shinobi receive treatment promptly. Jiraiya, investigate Otogakure's movements and uncover Orochimaru's exact scheme. Kakashi, lead part of the shinobi force to strengthen the border defenses while tracking the Sunagakure shinobi who have infiltrated. Aoba, Naruto, Sakura, the three of you will form a team and patrol inside Konoha. The moment you discover anything unusual, report it immediately."

"Yes!"

They answered in unison.

"All right, go make your preparations. Be extra careful."

The Third Hokage waved his hand, signaling that they could leave.

As they walked out of the office, Tsunade spoke first. "I'll go to the hospital and arrange the medical logistics. Contact me anytime if anything comes up."

With that, she hurried away.

Jiraiya patted Naruto on the shoulder and said with a smile, "Naruto, give it your best. Don't disappoint me."

Then he turned and left as well.

Kakashi looked at Kawaki Aoba, Naruto, and Sakura. "You three should get ready first. Meet at the village entrance in half an hour. We'll head to the border and inspect the situation."

"Got it, Kakashi-sensei!"

The three replied in unison.

When Kawaki Aoba received the Third Hokage's orders, he was sitting on the training ground, polishing his ninja tools.

Sunlight filtered through gaps in Konoha's trees and fell over him, the mottled patches of light swaying gently in the breeze. Yet his mood was nowhere near as bright as the weather.

The Kunai in his hand had been polished to a gleaming shine. The light reflected from its edge reminded him of what the Third Hokage had said in his office a few days ago—"Take the initiative and flush out the mastermind." The words were branded into his mind, leaving him both excited and slightly nervous.

"Captain Aoba,