Aoba slowly climbed to his feet and rolled his neck.
Although the keratin layer formed by [Hardening] had protected him from those attacks, he could still feel the pain.
It was clear that Itachi's taijutsu attacks were anything but weak!
However, at the instant Itachi attacked, he had also activated [Thorn Halo], dealing double reflected damage to him.
It was visible to the naked eye that the back of Itachi's right hand had already been scraped raw. Combined with his left arm, which was still hanging limply, the situation was becoming increasingly favorable for Aoba.
"Although this isn't an absolutely fair fight, I'm sorry, Itachi."
After saying that, Aoba charged forward again!
Itachi held a kunai in one hand, his gaze calm and composed as he watched Aoba's every move.
Even though the situation had become so dire, he still had no intention of breaking the rules.
Otherwise, even without using the Sharingan, he would not have been in such a passive position if he could use even the Three Body Techniques.
Itachi had already understood the purpose behind Aoba's proposal when he suggested this duel.
He had also been infected by the firm conviction Aoba had displayed.
Thus, he decided to let go of everything and fight with all his strength. Only then would he have no regrets or excuses!
If he truly lost, then perhaps, just as Aoba had said, it was fate's choice.
But if he ultimately won against all odds, then that would likewise be fate's answer to him!
Only by giving it everything he had could he be worthy of this true duel!
"Come on, Aoba! Defeat me!"
"This time, I won't back down!"
Fully focused, Itachi calmly swung his kunai toward Aoba's neck the instant Aoba reached him.
He had refrained from attacking vital