Main World.
Year 19 of Konoha, autumn.
Hokage Office.
The autumn rain outside had stopped, but the sky remained gloomy, just like Tobirama Senju's expression. He stood before the map, his red eyes fixed on the markers representing enemy movements-Kumogakure coming from the north, Kirigakure from the east, and Iwagakure from the west. Three Great Shinobi Villages, three directions, three blades, all thrusting at Konoha at once.
"What about Sunagakure?"
Tobirama Senju did not turn around.
"Sunagakure has closed itself off."
Hiruzen Sarutobi stood behind him, his voice calm.
"Shamon has closed the borders, forbidding anyone from entering or leaving. Supposedly, he's researching new puppets."
Tobirama Senju frowned slightly.
"Closed itself off..."
"Yes. Intelligence indicates that Sunagakure has made no military movements recently."
Tobirama Senju fell silent.
He turned and looked at the marker representing Sunagakure on the map.
"Shamon... is he planning to sit back and reap the rewards?"
"Sensei, then should we..."
"Tighten security in the south."
Tobirama Senju cut him off.
"We can't give Sunagakure an opening."
"Yes."
Hiruzen Sarutobi bowed.
Just then, a knock came at the office door.
"Come in."
The door opened, and Uchiha En walked in. He wore dark blue Clan Clothing, with a Ninja Blade hanging at his waist and a respectful smile on his face.
"Lord Hokage."
"What is it?"
Tobirama Senju's voice was cold.
"The Uchiha Clan is willing to serve as Konoha's vanguard."
There was a trace of barely concealed eagerness in Uchiha En's voice.
"For Konoha, we will brave fire and water without hesitation."
Tobirama Senju looked at him, a cold glint flashing through his red eyes.
"The Uchiha... as the vanguard?"
"Yes. The vanguard."
Uchiha En nodded.
"Our clan has the Sharingan and excels at reconnaissance and surprise attacks. We couldn't be better suited to serving as