The Cruelty of the Battlefield

Tsunade followed the main force toward the smoke-filled battlefield, her expression grave. Her white coat stood out among the ninjas' dark clothes like a ray of hope in the darkness.

On the battlefield, Uchiha Inabi calmly ordered Uchiha Shimizu to stay close. When their eyes met, they shared a look of trust and resolve.

"Everyone, watch out! The battlefield's just ahead. Be ready to dodge!"

Tsunade's clear, ringing voice struck every Konoha Ninja like a hammer blow amid the din of battle.

As she shouted, she swept her gaze over her comrades, concern plain in her eyes.

Though she was assigned to treat the wounded at the camp, the tension of the battlefield had already set her nerves on edge.

"Charge! For Konoha! Kill the enemy!"

A ninja drenched in blood roared the words. His wounds still bled, but the fire in his eyes had not dimmed.

His shout rang out like a battle horn, spurring on the comrades around him.

"Ah, it hurts! Help! Damn Hidden Stone ninjas!"

Another ninja cried out in agony. A Hidden Stone jutsu had struck him, leaving blood pouring from his wound as he struggled on the ground.

His comrades heard him, anger and worry flashing in their eyes, but they were locked in fierce combat and could not reach him.

Several medical ninjas sprang into action, darting between the wounded like swallows.

Tsunade was at their center, her movements swift and precise, like those of a master dancer.

She hurried to the wounded ninja's side and deftly formed Hand Seals. Soft chakra light shone from her hands—the light of life.

"Medical Ninjutsu: Healing Technique!"

At her low command, the light enveloped his wound. It began to close before their eyes, and the pain gradually eased from his face.

On that brutal battlefield, they