As for why the enemy had chosen a direct assault without scouting first,
Yechen figured there were two reasons.
First, the Sea-Viewing Cliff stronghold was easy to defend and hard to attack, so there was little need for extensive preparation.
Second, the enemy had already breached it twice and knew the terrain well. There was no need to scout it again.
On the other hand, this approach could also wear Konoha down, leaving them vulnerable to a surprise attack.
Over the past few days, for instance, Kirigakure scouting squads had frequently appeared along the defensive lines of the other strongholds, while everything here had remained calm.
Under these circumstances, the ninja stationed at the Sea-Viewing Cliff stronghold could not relax. Every one of them remained on high alert.
If this continued, repeated surprise attacks from Kirigakure would inevitably cause someone to make a mistake, giving the enemy an opening.
Presumably, that was their plan.
"Captain, I have something to report."
Not long after Yechen returned to his quarters, a voice called from outside.
He stepped outside and saw a messenger ninja, then asked,
"What is it?"
"Captain, as you instructed, I contacted the Northern Defense Line Command Center and passed along our intelligence." Seeing Yechen's calm expression, the messenger continued,
"Just now, Captain Yuna Kurozawa sent word that Kirigakure forces have also been gathering in other areas.
"Although their numbers aren't large, Captain Yuna Kurozawa is already mobilizing troops to cut off the retreat of the Kirigakure ninja attacking us. We're to prolong the battle as much as possible."
Yechen nodded slightly at the news.
"All right, understood. Tell Captain Kurozawa I'll carry out the order."
"Yes, Captain."
The messenger acknowledged the order and left.
Afterward, Yechen summoned the squad leaders to the Meeting Room to discuss their battle preparations.