As the Hyuga Clan's kekkei genkai, the Byakugan offered a full three-hundred-and-sixty-degree field of vision without blind spots, along with an almost X-ray-like ability to see through things. In reconnaissance and searches, it even surpassed the Sharingan.
If the Byakugan was restricted inside the Artificial Sun, the search mission would become several times harder.
"I've already considered that possibility."
Shikamaru said calmly, "That's why I've arranged multiple search methods."
"If the Byakugan is restricted, we'll make up for it with Kiba's sense of smell. If his sense of smell isn't accurate, we'll make up for it with Naruto's sensory abilities."
"Three layers of insurance. Surely they won't all fail."
Naruto froze for a moment. "My sensory abilities? You mean..."
Shikamaru explained, "Your sensory precision isn't as good as the Byakugan's, but if the Byakugan really does suffer serious interference, your chakra sensing can at least help us narrow down the search area. Don't tell me you can't do that."
"Of course I can!" Naruto said hastily.
"Good."
"Now let's discuss the specific tactical arrangements."
Shikamaru broke the entire operation down into three phases.
"Phase one: breach the entrance."
"The first team will enter the Artificial Sun first, draw the enemy's attention, and clear out the initial wave of puppets surrounding them."
"This wave of attacks will be the fiercest, because Toneri's puppet forces will definitely attack instantly. We need to tear open a gap as quickly as possible so the second team can enter smoothly."
"Phase two: split up."
"While the first team draws the enemy's attention, the second team will immediately push deeper inside and find Hinata and Hanabi's exact locations."
"If Toneri makes a move at this point, Naruto must immediately find a way to deal with him."
"Everyone else will continue carrying out their own tasks."
"Phase