Chapter 171: Chapter:169
Madara's inability to participate in the war until Izuna could procure a replacement Mangekyō Sharingan created a pressing challenge for the Uchiha clan. During this time, Uchiha began ramping up its preparations, bracing for the war that could ignite at any moment.
The devastating blow dealt to the Kaguya clan did have its desired effect: many smaller ninja clans, who had previously considered allying with the Senju, hesitated and assumed a neutral stance. However, despite their heavy losses, the Kaguya clan showed no signs of retreat. Their relentless resolve was akin to that of the Uchiha—a testament to their madness and unwavering spirit.
Only a day after Kaguya's defeat, the Senju officially appointed Kaguya Takeri as the new clan leader. The Kaguya clan relocated to the northwest, near Hatake territory.
Unexpectedly, Hatake declared their allegiance to the Senju just days after assuring Izuna of their neutrality. Uchiha's secret intelligence department uncovered this betrayal three days after Izuna's return. The news sent ripples of anger and frustration throughout the clan.
"If they had made their allegiance clear from the beginning, I wouldn't be so enraged," Izuna muttered coldly. "But to feign neutrality and backstab us afterward—it's unacceptable!"
Many Uchiha clansmen demanded immediate retaliation. Yet, Hatake's strategic relocation behind Senju territory rendered such action implausible for the time being. The matter could only be settled on the battlefield.
At home, Mito prepared tea for Izuna. Her gentle presence calmed his simmering rage.
"Are you still upset about Hatake?" she asked, placing the teacup in his hands.
Izuna took a sip, his expression softening slightly. "They'll pay for their betrayal. When the time comes, Hatake will understand the price of being a traitor."
Mito hesitated before asking, "Izuna, is Uchiha ready for the coming war? Senju's numbers are almost double ours."
Izuna offered her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. We'll find a way to win."
The night passed with whispers of war lingering in the air. Despite the tensions, Izuna and Mito spent a tender evening together.
The following morning, even after a restless night, Mito woke early to prepare breakfast for Izuna. She knew once the war began, moments like these would become scarce.
As they ate, a messenger arrived, kneeling in the courtyard. "Deputy Chief, preparations are complete."
Izuna nodded, finishing his meal quickly before addressing Mito. "I'll be gone for a while. Take care of yourself."
Mito smiled warmly, walking him to the door. "Stay safe."
At the Uchiha clan's meeting hall, senior members gathered to discuss their strategies. Even Madara, despite his weakened state, made an appearance.
"According to the deputy chief's earlier orders, our forces have constructed a hundred-mile stone defensive wall at Congyun Mountain to prepare for the Senju's attack," Uchiha Inosuke reported.
Congyun Mountain, now under Uchiha control, served as a critical line of defense between the two clans. Following Izuna's orders, the defenders had modeled their fortifications after the Great Wall of his past life.
Madara, seated at the front, frowned as he listened. Although he could no longer see clearly, his sharp mind remained unclouded. "The Senju have twice our numbers. A defensive strategy is essential, but we must also ensure ample supplies for prolonged engagement."
Izuna stood and addressed the council. "That's correct. Our strategy hinges on drawing the enemy into prolonged conflict. Despite their numerical advantage, I assure you—Uchiha will emerge victorious!"
His confidence bolstered the morale of the room.
Turning to Inosuke, Izuna inquired, "How long until the stone wall is fully completed?"
"At the current pace, another month will be required," Inosuke replied.
"A month…" Izuna studied the map displayed behind him. "The Senju Alliance is comprised of several powerful clans. Hatake and Kaguya alone are formidable, and their forces may divide to attack multiple fronts. We'll need response teams to counter these moves."
End of the Chapter.
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