The Hidden Cloud's Crisis: Responsibility

As Konoha continuously poured reinforcements toward the front lines like a surging tide, forty percent of Hidden Cloud Village's positions crumbled like paper fortresses, unable to withstand a single blow. The three thousand ninja led by Uchiha Inabi, together with the forces of the major clans, swept through those positions with ease. The Hidden Cloud ninja were like lone boats struggling in a raging storm, teetering amid towering waves as they could only grit their teeth and hold on.

Inside the Hidden Cloud office, the atmosphere was grave. Mabuyu, her face filled with worry, paced like an ant on a hot pan as she said to the First Raikage, A, "Lord Raikage, the front line is like a collapsing dam. It will not hold much longer. What should we do?" Raikage A frowned deeply, his lightning-sharp gaze fixed upon the map on the table as though he meant to see through it. His imposing face seemed forged from steel, every wrinkle speaking of time's hardships and his unyielding resolve. After a moment of silence, he clenched his fist and said in a low voice, "Immediately gather every ninja still capable of fighting. Young or old, all must shed blood for Hidden Cloud Village. At the same time, send urgent calls for aid to the other allied ninja villages. They must know that Hidden Cloud Village now stands at the brink of life and death."

Mabuyu accepted the order and left, while Raikage A donned his armor, standing like a towering mountain as he prepared to head to the front himself. The armor gleamed beneath the sunlight, as though symbolizing his unbending will and inexhaustible strength. Hidden Cloud Village was tense and solemn. The villagers sprang into action, preparing supplies and medical provisions for the ninja at the front.

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