The moment Ryūsetsuna heard that, she sprang up from the hospital bed. "Shinji, you're going too? Then take me with you! I'm from Kusagakure, so I can lead the way!"
Shinji nodded. "Then get ready. We're leaving immediately!"
He had come to the hospital specifically to bring Ryūsetsuna along.
Although he was certain that the ones infiltrating Kusagakure were ghosts, he still didn't dare be careless. Naturally, he had to bring along someone like Ryūsetsuna, who was familiar with Kusagakure.
Before long, two squads appeared at the gates of Konoha.
One squad was led by Tsunade, with Shizune, Yakumo, Shinji, and Ryūsetsuna as its members.
The other squad was led by Kakashi, while the remaining three were all experienced Special Jōnin.
Leaving Ryūsetsuna aside, these were two typical four-person squads. They had medical support, dōjutsu, excellent compositions, and powerful combat strength. Even Shinji could only be considered an extra, and he had barely been added because Utatane Koharu had insisted on it.
After all, once the investigation succeeded, there was a good chance that an S-rank mission record would be added to their resumes.
Tsunade swept her stern gaze over everyone. "Final equipment check!"
Even Kakashi didn't dare be careless, and everyone began checking their equipment.
Once the checks were complete, Tsunade waved her hand, and the two squads officially set out!
Inside the village.
After returning to his apartment, Sasuke was still sulking.
He had naturally applied to join this reconnaissance operation as well. Yet Yakumo and Shinji were both allowed to participate, while he, an Uchiha with the Mangekyo, had been left behind. He found that impossible to accept.
Just then, a voice suddenly rang in his ear.
After hearing it, he froze for a moment. Then the corners of his lips lifted, and he went to a