"The mission is S-rank." Naraku's gaze swept over the six faces in turn. "The enemy managed to attack right under Hyuga Hiashi and Neji Hyuga's noses and escape unscathed. That shows they're extremely powerful."
"Once you six get there, follow Shikamaru's tactical arrangements. Don't fight on your own."
"Shikamaru, you're the team leader for this mission."
Naraku looked at Shikamaru. "You're responsible for all tactical decisions. Understood?"
Shikamaru nodded. "Understood."
Naraku turned to Hinata, who had remained silent the entire time.
Her face was still pale, the light in her white eyes had grown somewhat unfocused, and she looked as though her soul had been drained away.
"Hinata Hyuga!" Naraku looked at her with a frown.
Hinata suddenly raised her head, as though jolting awake from a nightmare.
She looked at Naraku, her lips trembling several times before she finally spoke. "Lord Hokage... Hanabi... Father and the others..."
"That's all the more reason for you to go and confirm the situation yourself."
"Standing here imagining the worst won't solve anything. Pull yourself together. Once you're there, your Byakugan will be the most important tool for finding Hanabi."
Hinata drew a deep breath and nodded firmly.
"I understand, Lord Hokage!"
"Move out!"
"Yes!"
The six left the Hokage's Office.
Sakura Haruno first stopped by the medical supply depot, where she collected a large quantity of medicinal herbs and medical equipment according to the list she had drawn up.
Her medical backpack was stuffed to bursting, and she also carried a huge scroll bundle on her back.
The border outpost actually had ample medical supplies of all kinds, but its selection wasn't as comprehensive as Konoha's.
To be safe, Sakura Haruno still brought plenty of medical supplies.
The others headed straight to Konoha's main gate to assemble.
Naruto paced back and forth