From Shibi, Saitama learned the core of this mission—gathering intelligence on the enemy forces, including their defensive deployments, reinforcement routes, and logistical transport channels. Their squad was not operating alone; several similarly configured teams were carrying out the same mission at the same time.
"Prepare to move out." Shibi adjusted his sunglasses and issued the order to Saitama and Hyuga Tate.
It was worth noting that Orochimaru, one of the Legendary Three Ninja, had arrived at the front lines yesterday and formally taken over command from Tsunade. Tsunade was still overseeing camp affairs for the moment, but the handover was already underway.
Breaking Through the Dense Forest
"Whoosh!"
Figures swept across the treetops as Saitama's squad successfully broke through the enemy's first line of defense and infiltrated the Land of Bears.
"Stop!" Hyuga Tate suddenly raised a hand. Veins bulged around his eyes as his pale pupils scanned ahead. "There's a four-man squad four hundred meters ahead, including one jonin."
The team froze at once.
"Leave it to me." Saitama stepped forward. "You handle the perimeter watch."
"I'll go with you," Shibi said in a low voice. "The rest of you, check for threats nearby."
After a brief clash, Saitama and Shibi returned with a captured map. "Keep moving." Shibi's tone was calm, as if the fighting just now had nothing to do with him.
"Compared to the previous map, this overlapping marked area may be an enemy stronghold." Hyuga Tate unrolled a scroll as they moved. "Should we investigate it?"
Saitama stared at the map, frowning. "If it really is a core area, we may not be able to handle it alone."
Shibi's sunglasses hid his expression.
"Where is it? Show me." Saitama did not immediately state his position, instead signaling Hyuga Tate to point it out.
"The