After the bloody battle at the Broken Coast, Sakumo deliberately made himself less prominent within the squad.
Partly, it was because he had to carry out a considerable number of high-risk missions. Partly, it was out of consideration for the three youngsters.
During the bloody battle at the Broken Coast, all three had clearly demonstrated combat abilities far beyond the level of Genin. Only the wartime promotion regulations prevented them from being promoted for the time being.
Within the White Fang Squad's concealed temporary camp, deep in a crevice in the cliff face, the atmosphere was entirely different from the damp, oppressive chill outside. It held the taut stillness before a downpour, quiet and focused, with a keen edge beginning to stir beneath the surface.
The campfire flickered steadily, illuminating the four figures seated around a flat rock. This was the first time Sakumo had gone on a mission with the three youngsters since the bloody battle at the Broken Coast.
Sakumo spread a freshly decrypted scroll, still bearing a special chakra imprint, across the stone. Shinji,
Miwako, and Hizashi, whose injuries had only recently healed and whose face still retained a trace of pallor, all fixed their gazes on it.
"The target is here." Sakumo's voice was low and steady. As always, it betrayed little emotion, yet carried a reassuring strength.
His finger landed precisely on a small bay that had been deliberately circled on the map, tucked into an indentation along the rugged coastline.
"Gray Bream Harbor, an important supply transfer point Kirigakure established behind its defensive lines. It isn't particularly large, but its location is extremely well concealed. Cliffs enclosing it on three sides form a natural barrier. Its main purpose is to receive Ration Pills, Explosive Tags, finely crafted ninja tools, and certain scarce medical supplies