Naruto: Aizen's Shadow in Konoha

"Minato and I learned during our journey that Sand Shinobi's vanguard is stationed at the river. Is that still their current position?"

Commander Yama, though slightly surprised by Aizen's directness, responded without hesitation.

"Yes, Lord Aizen," he confirmed. "The Sand Shinobi army remains split into two divisions.

"The first, commanded by Chiyo and Ebizō, consists of six thousand shinobi and is stationed directly at the base of Kikyo Mountain. They frequently attack our fortress, testing our defenses.

"The second vanguard force, led by Rasa, numbers four thousand strong. They've entrenched themselves at the river, forming a pincer angle with Chiyo's forces. This positioning threatens to flank us and assault the fortress from two fronts."

Commander Yama paused briefly before continuing.

"The Ginlin River, as you may know, is a key waterway just beyond Kikyo Mountain. Its shimmering surface, when touched by sunlight, creates a striking effect that resembles silver scales, hence its name.

"In the past, our forward troops relied heavily on the Ginlin River as their primary water source. But now, with the Sand Shinobi in control, it serves as their lifeline."

Yama's expression grew grim. "Though we've lost access to the Ginlin River, the fortress still has a secondary river to the rear. It's sufficient for our current needs, but losing the Ginlin River has emboldened the enemy."

As Yama concluded his report, Aizen and Minato exchanged meaningful glances. The strategic positioning of the Sand Shinobi forces confirmed the challenges they anticipated.

"Thank you, Commander Yama," Minato said with a polite smile. "Please ensure the troops we've brought are settled in, and distribute the medical scrolls as soon as possible. Aizen and I have matters to discuss privately."

Commander Yama and the other officers rose immediately, bowing respectfully. "Yes, Lord Minato," Yama replied before leading the group out of the chamber.

As they exited, one of the officers, Elite Jōnin Hoshinohara, fell into step beside Commander Yama. His curiosity was palpable as he leaned closer and asked in a hushed tone, "Yama, what do you think of these two commanders?"

Commander Yama stiffened, quickly glancing around to ensure they weren't overheard. His voice dropped to a serious whisper. "Hoshinohara, you're playing a dangerous game. Remember, these two are not just commanders—they are the highest-ranking leaders on the western front. Any careless words could lead to serious consequences."

"I know, I know," Hoshinohara replied, waving his hand dismissively. "I'm not criticizing them. I'm just... curious."

Yama hesitated, his stern expression softening slightly. After a moment of thought, he began, "I've heard whispers about them, even as far back as the Second Ninja World War.

"But unlike Rasa or Pakura, who have been active in the ninja world for years, these two are enigmas. Aizen only rose to prominence in recent years after revolutionizing Konoha's medical corps. Beyond his skill in Water Style and genjutsu, very little is known about him."

Yama's brow furrowed. "As for Minato, the so-called 'First Genius,' he's even more of a mystery. His reappearance in the public eye as deputy commander of the Shinobi Department was sudden, and his abilities remain largely untested on the battlefield."

He sighed deeply. "To be honest, Hoshinohara, even many high-ranking officials in Konoha likely know little about them. Without concrete information, it's hard to judge their capabilities."

"If you think about it," Hoshinohara said thoughtfully, stroking his chin, "our two commanders are quite the enigma. My guess? They must've been active in Anbu when they disappeared from public view. There's no other way they could've vanished so completely from the ninja world's radar."

Commander Yama nodded in agreement. "That seems likely," he said. "But we'll learn all we need to about them soon enough. Their leadership will be tested in the coming days."

Yama glanced at Hoshinohara, a wry smile playing on his lips. "For now, though, let's not waste time. Those medical scrolls aren't going to distribute themselves."

Hoshinohara's eyes widened, and he slapped his forehead as if suddenly recalling something crucial. "You're right! How could I forget? Kitahara and the others ran off pretty quickly earlier. If we don't hurry, all the good stuff will be gone!"

Without another word, he darted down the hill, moving with the urgency of a ninja on a mission.

Commander Yama, watching his friend disappear in a blur of motion, chuckled and shook his head. "This guy..." he muttered, before quickly following in pursuit.

When they arrived at the storage area, the scene before them left both men speechless.

Other officers had already begun overseeing the distribution of the medical scrolls, which were being carried from the dozens of supply carts parked nearby. The scrolls were stacked high, forming mounds that could rival small hills.

Hoshinohara's jaw dropped. "Are you seeing this?" he exclaimed. "I've never even dreamed of seeing this many medical scrolls!"

Yama Commander, equally stunned, could only nod. "It's... unreal. It took me over a month to get my hands on a single intermediate medical scroll from the medical department. But this?" He gestured at the piles before them, his voice tinged with disbelief.

After a moment, Hoshinohara managed to gather his thoughts. "You know," he said, his tone more reflective, "I think I'm starting to trust those two commanders. Even if they aren't battle-tested, these supplies alone prove they're worth following."

Commander Yama agreed. "Absolutely. If Aizen-sama's promise of continuous resupply is genuine, we'll have the stability we need to hold Kikyoyama Fortress for the foreseeable future."

Despite their growing confidence, the commanders' satisfaction was focused solely on defending the fortress.

But for Aizen and Namikaze Minato, defense was not enough.

Back at the High Command, Aizen and Namikaze Minato concluded their detailed discussion, finalizing their strategy.

"The logistics should be handled by now," Aizen said, his tone calm and deliberate. His eyes gleamed with calculated brilliance, the light of a sharp and cunning mind. "It's time to share the plan with the others."

Minato nodded, a faint smile on his lips.