Deep in the forest on the border of the Land of Rivers.
The puppeteer captain led six elite puppeteers from the Hidden Sand Village into position, slipping into hiding without a sound.
Their target was a Leaf Village supply convoy. According to their intelligence, it would pass through this canyon in a few hours.
"Right here."
The captain looked up at the cliffs on either side, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.
The convoy had to pass through this canyon. With steep cliffs on both sides, it was the perfect place for an ambush.
"Set the Explosive Tag traps."
His six subordinates immediately went to work. Swift and practiced, they attached Explosive Tags to the cliff walls at both ends of the canyon.
The paper tags fluttered gently in the wind, waiting for their prey to enter the encirclement.
The captain stood on high ground, overlooking the narrow passage below, a cold smile curling his lips.
"Once they're in the pocket, we blow both ends. The rocks come down, and they won't escape even if they sprout wings."
Once the preparations were complete, he formed hand seals:
"Summoning Technique-Ninja Lizards!"
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Several Ninja Lizards appeared out of thin air and swiftly crawled into the depths of the forest upon landing.
These small summons had undergone special training, allowing them to sense hidden enemies and chakra fluctuations.
A moment later, the captain closed his eyes and used the Ninja Lizards' senses to confirm that the surroundings were clear.
"No ambush. No large force."
He opened his eyes and nodded in satisfaction.
"Now all we have to do is wait!"
Several hours later.
The sun sank toward the west, and the light in the canyon began to fade.
In the distance, a group of Konoha Ninja slowly approached, escorting