Shikaku continued.
"At the same time, strengthen fortifications and patrols along the other likely approaches at the border. Guard against small Sunagakure units infiltrating and launching surprise attacks. Our primary objective is to keep the enemy outside our borders. We must not let Sunagakure set foot in the Land of Fire so easily."
This plan aligned closely with Hiruzen Sarutobi's cautious, defensive approach.
The Third Hokage nodded. "Proceed with Shikaku's plan. All departments are to act immediately, allocate supplies, and reinforce our border defenses. Meanwhile, select elite jonin to form support squads, ready to reinforce whichever sectors come under the greatest pressure."
Orders were swiftly issued, one after another.
The atmosphere in the conference room grew even tenser, but it also took on a grim resolve against their common enemy.
After the meeting ended, the jonin filed out, discussing matters in hushed groups of two or three, their expressions grave.
Uchiha Makoto and Kakashi were walking together, about to leave, when a gentle voice stopped them.
"You two, a moment, please."
They turned to see Minato Namikaze approaching with his signature smile, as warm and refreshing as a spring breeze.
"Minato." Kakashi nodded slightly in greeting.
Uchiha Makoto also greeted him respectfully.
Minato looked at them, his smile brightening. "Uchiha Makoto, Kakashi, congratulations on your promotion to special jōnin. It's remarkable to see you standing here at such a young age. Konoha's future needs talented people like you."
Inside, however, Makoto launched into a furious stream of commentary:
Here he is! Konoha's number-one walking cheat, the future Fourth Hokage, the Yellow Flash himself! When it comes to talent, who in all of Konoha can compare to you? Whether it's Kakashi or Shisui, they have the bloodlines of great clans like the Uchiha or the Hatake to fall back on.
*You