The return to Konoha's war room was marked by a heavy silence, the weight of the Akatsuki scout's death lingering in the air.
Jin-Woo stood before Tsunade, his expression unreadable, as Kakashi and Sakura flanked him.
The chakra-sealed lanterns flickered, casting jagged shadows across the maps and scrolls, while Shizune adjusted her glasses, her clipboard trembling slightly.
ANBU captains lined the walls, their masked faces betraying no emotion, but their readiness was palpable.
Tsunade's fists tightened on the table, her voice cutting through the tension. "You took down an Akatsuki scout. Impressive, but reckless. That move will provoke them."
Jin-Woo met her gaze, his tone steady. "Provocation was inevitable. Zetsu's attack proved it. They're watching. I just gave them a reason to act."Shizune stepped forward, her voice urgent. "Tsunade-sama, the scout's chakra signature matched our records—low-tier, but linked to Pain's network. If Jin-Woo's right, Akatsuki will escalate."
Kakashi nodded, his Sharingan glinting. "He handled it efficiently. No collateral damage, no trace. But he's right—they'll send more. We need a counterstrike."
Tsunade's eyes narrowed. "And you think charging into their territory is the answer? We've lost too many to Pain already."
"I don't charge," Jin-Woo replied, his voice cold. "I hunt. Send me to the Land of Rain. Their base is there. I'll gather intel, weaken them from within."
Shizune gasped, clutching her clipboard. "The Land of Rain? It's a death trap since Pain's takeover. Even Jiraiya struggled there."
"Jiraiya survived," Jin-Woo said, his gaze unwavering. "Because I helped him. I can do this."
Tsunade leaned back, her mind racing. "You're asking for a lot of trust, Shadow Monarch. Why should I risk my people on you?""Because you're out of options,"
Jin-Woo countered. "Akatsuki wants Naruto. You can't protect him if you're reacting. I'll give you the initiative."Kakashi interjected, his tone measured.
"He's got a point, Tsunade-sama. A preemptive strike could buy us time. I'll go with him. Keep him in check."
Tsunade sighed, her decision weighing on her. "Fine. But you're not alone. Kakashi, you lead. Sakura, stay here and coordinate defenses with Shizune.
Jin-Woo, you follow Kakashi's orders—or you're out. Understood?"
Jin-Woo inclined his head. "Understood. But my shadows don't negotiate."As they exited, Tsunade muttered to Shizune, "Double the barrier strength. If this fails, we'll need every edge."