Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

In the hinterland of the Country of Birds, within the Konoha camp.

In the central area of the camp, all mid-level and high-ranking members of the surprise attack force had gathered in the conference room. The Third Hokage had just issued an order for the surprise attack force to abandon all operations in the Country of Birds and retreat to the Land of Wind. To this end, Uzumaki Raiden summoned everyone.

"Such a foolish order! Who convinced Hokage-sama to issue it?!

"We've just achieved a major victory and successfully captured the Four Tails. The Iwa front-line troops also lack strong leaders to take command now.

"This is the perfect opportunity to strike! By fully controlling the Country of Birds, we can then advance into the Land of Earth.

"Capitalizing on the morale disparity between our forces and relying on the strength of our troop commander, we are bound to secure great results in the Land of Earth.

"So why, Hokage-sama, would you issue such an order now?!"

In the conference room, Aburame Shibi, upon hearing Hokage's latest instructions, stood up and spoke loudly. The room was packed with more than 20 high-ranking front-line leaders, with additional ninjas standing around due to the lack of chairs for this impromptu meeting.

As they listened to Shibi's words, some lowered their heads in thought, others fixed their gaze on him, and a few remained indifferent. Namikaze Minato sat next to Uzumaki Raiden, with Kakashi, Obito, and Rin standing behind him, curiously observing Shibi.

It was rare to hear someone criticize the Third Hokage so directly in front of so many people. Shibi's words carried a boldness that was seldom seen, even among the most outspoken.

"Shibi, Hokage-sama must have his reasons for making such a decision," Sarutobi Shinnosuke interjected with a strained expression. After all, the one Shibi criticized was his father.

Although Shinnosuke himself disagreed with the retreat, he felt obligated to defend his father's decision.

"Reasons? What reasons? All I see is a missed opportunity!"

Aburame Shibi, visibly frustrated, voiced his annoyance at the loss of an obvious strategic advantage due to the Third Hokage's order.

Born into the Aburame Clan, Shibi had always faced prejudice because of his unique skills. Unlike most in his clan who used insects for reconnaissance or combat, Shibi specialized in poisonous insects that resided inside his body, rendering his skin toxic to the touch. This peculiarity had made him an outcast within his clan.

After following Uzumaki Raiden for many years, Shibi was determined to prove his worth through merit, and this missed chance stung deeply.

"Enough! Stop arguing," Uzumaki Raiden commanded, silencing the room.

"I didn't summon you here to listen to bickering," he continued, addressing Shibi directly. "Hokage-sama's order is final. You are to execute it without complaint. According to the instructions, the Four Tails will be handed over to Orochimaru on the Rain Country front. You are responsible for arranging this transfer."

Shibi opened his mouth to retort but could only manage a reluctant "Yes, Raiden-sama."

Raiden continued, "I've called you here to plan our retreat. I don't want to hear further objections.

"Shinnosuke, gather your troops and begin the withdrawal immediately. Ensure it is done covertly. Destroy all previously laid traps to avoid leaving anything useful to the people of the Country of Birds. Leave nothing behind."

"All spies within Iwa's ranks are to remain in place and avoid unnecessary communication. Their cover must not be compromised."

Hearing this, Shibi glanced at Raiden in surprise and asked, "Raiden-sama, does this mean we aren't entirely giving up on this position?"

"No, not entirely. Handing over the Four Tails to Orochimaru is likely a move toward peace negotiations. Whether or not we'll return to the Country of Birds remains uncertain.

"And didn't I order some assets to remain behind? The spies will stay hidden, and I'm leaving certain contingencies in place."

Raiden spoke with an air of certainty, hinting at his belief that the conflict with Iwa might soon come to an end. He suspected Iwa would try to retrieve the Four Tails but would ultimately be forced into peace talks after repeated failures.

The meeting concluded, and the commanders left to prepare for the retreat. Shibi also departed, taking the sealed Four Tails container with him.

After the room emptied, Uzumaki Raiden stretched and asked Minato, "What are your plans now? Are you staying with my unit, or did the old man already send you new orders?"

Minato smiled and replied, "I've received new orders from Hokage-sama. My team is to infiltrate the Land of Earth and destroy one of their key supply routes."

"Ah, the Kannabi Bridge, I assume?" Raiden asked knowingly.

"Exactly," Minato confirmed with a grin. "It's no surprise you figured it out. Your years of experience on the front lines and command of Konoha's forces make your strategic insight unparalleled."

Raiden raised an eyebrow. "It's fitting for Konoha's Yellow Flash to lead such a mission, but do you intend to bring all three of your students along?"

Minato nodded. "Don't underestimate them. They're excellent ninjas. And Kakashi has already been promoted to Jonin, even faster than you or I achieved the rank."

Raiden smiled. "Indeed, Kakashi is exceptional, but remember, a ninja's worth is ultimately proven on the battlefield. Your mission behind enemy lines will test them all. Rely on your own skills, but also ensure they learn to rely on themselves."

Raiden then handed Kakashi a scroll, saying, "This is for you. In a desperate situation, unseal the scroll and inject chakra into it."

To Obito and Rin, Raiden said, "As for you two, I have a different gift," before placing his hands on their shoulders and channeling chakra to form a protective barrier within their bodies.

"Take care on your mission," Raiden said as Minato led his team out of the room.

After they left, Raiden murmured, "Now to hand over these White Zetsu corpses for study."

"Summon Aburame Shibi and have him bring the Four Tails container to me," he ordered, preparing for the next steps in his plan.

(End of Chapter)