The moment Sasaki Lanyan entered their perimeter, Bafeng Riyue came straight out to meet him.
"Sasaki Lanyan, why are you here?" Bafeng Riyue looked quite displeased, wearing an expression as though no one else mattered but him. However, there was nothing to be done about it. He was a member of Root. Though he might not have been stronger than Sasaki Lanyan, Root was essentially an inspectorate, inherently placed above ordinary ninja.
"Something happened. I've already sent someone to notify Mai." Sasaki Lanyan ignored Bafeng Riyue's tone, his own words sounding more like a notice than an explanation.
"What exactly happened?" Bafeng Riyue stared coldly at Sasaki Lanyan. Although his rank was somewhat higher, he did not have a written order specifically authorizing him to carry out this mission. If Sasaki Lanyan openly refused to show him respect, there was nothing he could do.
"Wait until Mai gets here." Sasaki Lanyan's tone was quite unfriendly. Bafeng Riyue said nothing and turned to leave. Five minutes later, another unit arrived. This force consisted of three squads, led by a woman with chestnut-colored hair. She was Hidemura Mai, one of the two commanders for this mission. There was no need to mention her strength—she stood at the top among Jonin.
Moreover, she held great prestige in the village. Aside from being skilled in Ninjutsu, she was also exceptionally adept at medical Ninjutsu. If they were judging ability alone, her medical skills were likely second only to Tsunade's.
Once Mai arrived, Bafeng Riyue stepped out again. "Sasaki Lanyan, now that Mai is here, say what you need to say. If you can't give me an explanation, then don't think your dereliction of duty and disregard for my orders will simply be overlooked. Prepare to be investigated by the Anbu!" Bafeng Riyue's face was