Under Hozuki Lengyue's orders, the Kirigakure ninja force immediately began scouting ahead. Before long, word came back that signs of Konoha ninja activity had been found nearby. Judging by their numbers, however, they had not assembled beforehand and were still in the process of gathering.
Hozuki Lengyue was now certain that the enemy had used a deception tactic, and his displeasure with that Kirigakure ninja squad only deepened. But with the battle still underway, this was no time to hold them accountable. He merely sent someone to deliver a verbal message, both informing them of the current situation and making it clear that if they wanted to escape punishment, they had better fight harder in the coming engagement.
The Kirigakure ninja squad understood Hozuki Lengyue's hint and inwardly rejoiced at their good fortune. The old Hozuki Lengyue would probably have punished them outright rather than giving them a chance to redeem themselves. Losing his former position and drawing closer to the rank and file had improved his temper somewhat. He no longer responded with nothing but blind rage, a change the Third Mizukage was very pleased to see.
Once the Kirigakure reconnaissance units pinpointed the Enemy Forces' defensive lines, Hozuki Lengyue carefully weighed his options. Although his failure to recognize the deception promptly had cost them some time, the Konoha Ninja Forces stationed here were limited in number. Even if they assembled, their defenses might not be particularly strong. Besides, there was a possible supply stockpile nearby.
Hozuki Lengyue decided to attack immediately and disrupt Konoha Ninja Village's deployments as much as possible before the Enemy Forces' main force arrived. If they encountered serious trouble, they could swiftly retreat and consolidate the territory they had already occupied, using it to hold their ground against Konoha Ninja Village's forces.
There was