In Konoha's skies, numerous messenger hawks took flight, heading toward other countries.
Underground, many ninjas also began to move.
Whoosh, whoosh!
Swoosh!
Since they were not facing Akatsuki's core members this time, newly promoted Chunin like Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji began leading teams.
It was clear that Konoha had deeply recognized the crisis.
Its forces had begun to mobilize.
Medical ninjas provided logistical support from the rear, while Intelligence Division ninjas verified information at the front.
Konoha's ability to act was on full display.
As Hokage, Tsunade had done quite well.
Her temper and way of handling matters were more decisive than the Third's.
Shikamaru was serving as the commander-in-chief for this operation, at Shikaku's suggestion.
It was also Shikaku's way of helping cultivate Shikamaru.
"Eh? I don't need to make a move? With my abilities, I could give them the greatest possible support."
Tobitake Tonbo looked at Tsunade in confusion.
He had assumed that Tsunade would have him participate in this extermination operation, but apparently not.
Tsunade said, "I have a feeling that the Akatsuki matter won't be so simple. War may not be far off, so we need to cultivate the abilities of the younger generation of ninjas. If you go, how would that be any different from the Hokage personally going to wipe out minor troops?"
That was true enough.
He had once been acting Hokage, after all.
If a Kage Level ninja had to act in such a minor extermination operation, Konoha might as well leave the Five Great Ninja Villages and compare itself to the smaller villages.
"You have a point. Then what did you call me here for this time?"
Tobitake Tonbo readily agreed.
The grand finale always appeared at the critical moment.
"Akatsuki's goal is the Jinchuriki, so I need you to improve