Genjutsu: Mirror Flower, Water Moon.
This was not an offensive genjutsu, but a "deception technique" specifically aimed at chakra structures.
Under Zhi's control, the node core's communication circuit was silently "copied" and "replaced."
Now, all information sent from this node would first pass through a genjutsu filter preset by the Uchiha. Any alarm would be replaced with feedback saying, "Everything is normal."
The entire process took seven seconds.
When Zhi withdrew his fingers, that Kirigakure node was still operating. Even the two guards remained where they were, maintaining their chakra output.
But what they were maintaining was now a false node that had been "taken over" by the Uchiha.
"Node One, control complete."
Zhi reported concisely, "The guards have entered a deep illusion and are not expected to wake for three hours.
"The communication circuit has been altered."
"Received."
Inside the submersible vessel, Kagami watched the entire process through the footage Uchiha Zhi relayed back in real time. A trace of satisfaction flashed through his scarlet Sharingan.
"Not bad efficiency.
"Continue. The next node."
On the sea surface, aboard Kirigakure's command ship.
Thirty minutes had passed since the Third Mizukage departed.
On the command ship's deck, Qing Zhong, the trusted Jonin the Third Mizukage had left behind, surveyed the defensive line with a cold expression.
"All ships, report your status."
Qing Zhong's voice spread throughout the blockade fleet through chakra.
"Ship One is normal. Mist Barrier strength remains at 87%."
"Ship Two is normal. The underwater detection array has found no abnormalities."
"Ship Three..."
The string of reports declaring everything "normal" reassured Qing Zhong slightly, but his naturally suspicious nature kept him from fully relaxing.
The Mizukage-sama's words before leaving still rang in his ears—"If Konoha really comes... you know what to do."
He knew.
If they truly discovered a