As the dust began to settle from the chaos outside, the Hokage's office buzzed with urgency. Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, stood at the center of the room, exuding an aura of calm amid the panic. His face was lined with concern, but his voice remained steady as he addressed the frightened civilians gathered around him.
"Ino, keep guiding everyone in. We'll ensure they're safe here," Hiruzen instructed, glancing at the young kunoichi as she ushered more villagers into the building.
"Right! This way, everyone! Just stay close!" Ino said, her voice firm and reassuring. She helped a few trembling children to find a place near the back of the office, ensuring they felt secure.
---
Inside the Hokage's building, civilians clung to each other, their eyes wide with fear. Hiruzen stepped forward, kneeling down to speak to a group of children. "Listen carefully. You're safe here. Our shinobi are out there fighting to protect you. We won't let anything happen to you."
A little boy sniffled and whispered, "What if they get hurt?"
Hiruzen smiled gently. "They're strong, just like you. They're fighting to keep our village safe, and they will succeed. You must be brave for them."
The children nodded, comforted by his words, though the lingering sound of distant explosions echoed in their ears.
---
As Ino continued guiding civilians, she caught a glimpse of Hiruzen speaking with a mother who had just entered, her eyes filled with worry for her children. Ino approached, offering her support. "We'll take care of everyone, I promise."
"Thank you, dear. I just—" the woman's voice trembled. "I can't lose them. They're all I have."
Ino placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You won't lose them. We'll keep them safe here."
---
Hiruzen took a moment to scan the room, appreciating the unity among his villagers, even in the face of danger. "Everyone, listen! I know this is a frightening time, but I need you to trust in our shinobi. They're out there fighting for you. Stay calm and stay together. We will get through this."
As the Hokage spoke, the sound of footsteps echoed outside, signaling the return of Team 7 and their allies. Hiruzen turned his gaze to the door, ready to receive any updates from the field.
---
The door swung open, revealing Kakashi, Sasuke, Naruto, Sakura, and Hyuk, all visibly worn from battle but relieved to be back. Ino immediately rushed to them. "You're back! What's happening outside?"
"We managed to neutralize a few more Exploding Clay Birds," Kakashi replied, scanning the room before focusing on Hiruzen. "But we need to prepare for more attacks. The enemy won't back down so easily."
Hyuk stepped forward, his expression serious. "They're organized and relentless. I think they're planning a larger assault."
Hiruzen nodded, processing the information. "We'll need to strategize. Ino, continue to guide the villagers. Keep them calm. Kakashi, gather the rest of the teams. We must fortify our defenses."