Who?

In the Forest of Death.

Though the formidable First and Second, both in their Impure World Reincarnation states, were behind them, and Ranmaru—like Hiruko, a wielder of several Kekkei Genkai—was lurking nearby and watching with Shadow Release, the students still breathed a sigh of relief once they regrouped with the Jonin.

After all, in the students' eyes, their Jonin teachers were a source of security.

What they didn't know was how shaken the Jonin were after seeing the student squad led by Shinji emerge from the sea of trees unscathed.

"Ranmaru's appearance means the Akatsuki Organization has already begun its operation!" After a pause, Kakashi looked at Naruto. "Naruto, you need to get to the shelter immediately!"

"I'm not afraid of those Akatsuki bastards!" Naruto declared.

Just as Kakashi was about to persuade him again, Shinji gave an order. "Sasuke's lost his ability to fight and needs to go to the shelter for treatment. Someone has to guard him. Naruto, Sakura, you're his teammates. Protecting him is your job."

"Understood!"

Sakura nodded at once.

Naruto felt that something was off, but when he saw Sasuke in such a sorry state, he could only nod. "Don't worry. We'll take care of Sasuke!"

Shinji then instructed Haku and Karin, "You two go with them as well."

Haku knew Shinji wanted them to protect Naruto and Sasuke, but since Ranmaru was intent on killing Shinji, she couldn't help worrying. "What about you?"

"Why don't you let me stay?" Karin offered.

"Don't worry about me."

Shinji waved his hand.

Whoosh.

Just then, an ANBU member hurried over. "We have a problem! The One-Tail Jinchuriki from Sunagakure has been attacked by Hiruko of the Akatsuki Organization!"

"What!?"

Everyone's expression darkened.

Kakashi asked, "Why wasn't the Jinchuriki sent to a shelter?"

"The squad delivering the evacuation