Kumogakure had mobilized its troops with such fanfare that almost the entire shinobi world knew of its movements. Naturally, Konoha could not have been unaware.
After all, Xia Yan controlled Konoha's Anbu, and he could hardly neglect an opponent they might go to war with.
For instance, the Land of Lightning's deployments had begun to shift. Some troops originally stationed along the coast to guard against Kirigakure had been reassigned to the vicinity of the Land of Hot Water and the Land of Iron.
This guarded against a surprise attack from Konoha while also guarding against moves by their old enemies, the Stone Ninja.
Of course, the forces deployed there were far too few. If either village made a move, it would overwhelm them.
So these troops served, at most, as guards and an early warning system. Necessary precautions still had to be taken, after all.
Reports of these movements reached Xia Yan's office almost immediately.
Xia Yan knew exactly what all this meant. Events had not changed course because of his appearance, and he could finally get some exercise.
Sure enough, after the Kumogakure Ninja Head died, Xia Yan immediately received word that the Raikage was personally leading the troops, with the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki accompanying him.
Xia Yan shared this news with Shikaku Nara and the others, and it made them realize that these Cloud Ninja truly intended to fight for their lives.
They had deployed so many shinobi, even sending out the Raikage and their jinchūriki. No matter how one looked at it, they seemed intent on crushing Konoha completely.
"But aren't they afraid of a surprise attack on their own village if they do this?"
Many people were considering this question, and even Xia Yan could not help wondering why they were so bold.
After all, Xia