However, because the ANBU deputy commander had already dispatched the other personnel, most of the people sent by the Third Hokage at this time were his personal bodyguards. Although elite, their numbers were small.
Had the Sannin and White Fang not been away from the village on official business, they likely would have been sent as well. Meanwhile, Sarutobi Hiruzen prepared to deploy in person.
As the first batch of ANBU set out, they did not need to encumber themselves with carrying Uzumaki Kushina like the Cloud Shinobi did, allowing them to move much faster. Before long, they caught up to that team of spy shinobi.
Chapter 64