At the Gates and an Ominous Premonition

In the height of summer in Konoha's forty-ninth year, Sunagakure's army, under the command of the Fourth Kazekage Rasa, reached an unprecedented peak. The war was proceeding far more smoothly than even the most optimistic had imagined.

The Magnet Release Gold Dust Technique displayed terrifying, strategic-level power on the front lines. Rasa did not even need to personally reach the foremost battlefield. Seated at the center of the army, he could control a vast ocean of Gold Dust and effortlessly crush the hastily constructed defenses, fortresses, and even entire forests of Konoha's ninja. The army followed close behind, advancing triumphantly into the heartland of the Land of Fire with unstoppable force.

Reports of victory flew back to Sunagakure like snowflakes, and every message drew cheers from the villagers who remained behind. The Sunagakure ninja on the front lines were even more fired up. They watched powerful Konoha "retreat in defeat" before them, occupied fertile lands they had once only imagined, and seized mountains of supplies. A feverish sentiment of "Konoha is nothing special" and "victory is within sight" spread throughout the army.

The puppet squad led by Shaye, one of Elder Chiyo's sharpest blades, had likewise endured repeated brutal battles and achieved brilliant results. His calm command, formidable personal strength, and the Puppet Corps' efficient coordination earned unanimous recognition from above and below. Yet the gentle energy continuously emitted by the miniature Body Refining Furnace on his wrist could not dispel the growing unease in his heart, an unease so heavy it nearly became tangible.

This advance... was going too smoothly. It was unnerving!

Though Konoha's resistance was fierce, it always felt as though they lacked the strength to continue, fighting as they retreated. They seemed to be carrying out a predetermined, complete withdrawal plan rather than suffering a rout.