Before the words had even faded, Karin used her sensory abilities to lead Sakura into a direct escape through the night. Going all out, the two of them instantly reached an astonishing speed!
Nothing unexpected happened. Or rather, they had not even needed much effort to shake off that bizarre woman. It had gone so smoothly that it was hard to believe it was real.
Though Sakura wanted to go back and see what exactly was going on with that woman, Karin was emotionally unstable right now. Granted, staying might have yielded some information, but with Karin having given such a clear warning, the risks and rewards were completely disproportionate.
"Karin, calm down. We already shook him off!"
"Mm."
"..."
Karin slowly closed her eyes. When she opened them again, her gaze looked somewhat vacant, as though she were spacing out. Her feet did not stop moving, but she slowed from a run to a brisk walk. "Sakura, do you think something is wrong with my mind?"
Sakura shook her head. Of course she did not think so. During their time together in Konoha, aside from her initial reserve, Karin had been rather cheerful and confident around others. She rarely showed weakness. That was why Sakura could so clearly sense Karin's change—she must have perceived something serious to become like this!
In the darkness, Karin seemed not to notice Sakura's response and continued on her own. "Of course, it is fine if you think that way. Ever since I saw that tower, I have kept feeling as if something has been watching us. Maybe you cannot understand this feeling... Anyway, our situation is very dangerous right now..."
Karin did not continue, because an ominous premonition rose in her heart. If they could not find the source of that malice, everyone