Hunter Cabin, one of them.
"Is that so? You're Chiba's friend."
Beneath the hanging kettle, a warm fire burned. The flickering flames illuminated the three people sitting cross-legged around the fire. Outside, the repeated sounds of flesh striking wooden posts carried in, occasionally accompanied by a child's soft cries of pain, followed by the shouts of the boy who had earlier been called "Zong Mi."
At that moment, the words came from the boy among the three who was reading the letter.
"Yes. Chiba sent me here. I need a place to stay."
In response, the white-clad youth seated opposite him—Hyuga Yukyō—answered straightforwardly.
By now, Hyuga Yukyō felt that he could trust these children. First of all, although he and Chiba did not get along, he still trusted Chiba deeply. He had not been particularly suspicious of this place to begin with.
And just now, he had secretly surveyed the area with his Byakugan. This settlement was basically as Chiba had described it. Aside from having somewhat more supplies than Chiba had mentioned, nothing had changed.
Though they had weapon stores, and most of these children had mastered Chakra—the essential prerequisite for becoming ninja—their appearance and manner of conduct showed none of a ninja's qualities. They truly were ordinary people.
Ordinary people who had mastered Chakra.
Moreover, from their training methods, Hyuga Yukyō could clearly see Chiba's influence.
The way these children trained was entirely Chiba-style.
There was no doubt that Chiba had personally taught these children.
This was the place Chiba had sent him to.
"Since you're Chiba's friend, then stay with us."
Upon hearing Hyuga Yukyō's words, the boy holding the letter had yet to speak when the beautiful girl beside them spoke first.
"Yes, stay with us."
Then, the boy holding the letter also spoke.
"Thank you."