Making a Move!

A massive impact exploded through the forest, sending wave after wave of shockwaves surging outward, carrying wood chips and fragments of stone with them!

The thick trees were no match for Shinnō in the "Gate of Wonder" state, and even the Wood Release's seemingly endless ability to regenerate slowed by half a beat.

In just a breath or two, Shinnō broke through more than ten layers of trees and neared Yakumo, who was protected deep within the forest.

"Incredible..."

Yakumo thought, her expression troubled.

Judging by the strength Shinnō had shown so far, she probably couldn't win with Wood Release alone. But Shinji and the others were nearby, along with the Iwagakure Ninja. Yakumo didn't dare release Ido and reveal the full extent of her strength.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Amid a series of explosive crashes and flying wood chips, Shinnō continued charging through the forest at high speed!

In the "Gate of Wonder" state, every move he made carried immense destructive power. Normally, even a Taijutsu user like Might Guy, who specialized in powerful punches, wouldn't charge recklessly into a forest like this. After all, force acted both ways: the tremendous power behind each strike also rebounded against the user's body.

But Shinnō was also using the medical Forbidden Jutsu "Body Regeneration," so he could ignore the damage his body sustained.

Whoosh!

Just as Shinnō was about to break through the final wall of trees and reach Yakumo, a figure dropped from above and suddenly intercepted him.

"You!?"

Shinnō froze for a moment.

The one who had stopped him was none other than Kimimaro, whom he'd been the first to knock away.

Kimimaro didn't waste words. He immediately attacked with all his strength.

Thud! Thud! Thud!

In an instant, the two were locked in fierce combat amid the surrounding forest.