Hayato and the others were locked in a fierce clash with the Sky Ninja.
Suddenly, a Yamanaka Chunin's face grew unusually grave. Using a secret technique, he sent a warning to everyone.
"There's chakra approaching. Everyone, be careful."
Then he transmitted the chakra's location into everyone's minds.
Hayato turned to face the right, his brows furrowing.
It's coming from the center of the fortress. Could it be Shennong?
Their plan had been to deal with the enemies on the outskirts before heading to the restricted area in the center,
but they hadn't expected the enemy to come to them.
Their whereabouts had been exposed, and more and more Sky Ninja were closing in on them like sharks that had caught the scent of blood.
If Shennong joined the battle now, the situation would undoubtedly turn against them.
Hayato took a deep breath, turned to Sakumo, and said firmly, "Sensei, I'll stop him."
A hint of approval flashed in Sakumo's eyes, but concern outweighed it.
He knew he couldn't leave the center of the battlefield. The two Yamanaka Chunin in their group were better suited to support than to attack. Right now, Hayato was the only one who could take on this task.
"Be careful," he urged solemnly.
Hayato nodded, then flashed forward, breaking through the Sky Ninja's encirclement and rushing to intercept Shennong.
Before long, he ran into Shennong at a corner.
Shennong immediately spotted the Konoha Forehead Protector on Hayato's head and curled his lips into a contemptuous smile.
"Konoha's really fallen on hard times. They're sending a brat like you to your death."
Before the words had left his mouth, Shennong charged at Hayato and threw a punch straight at his face. Hayato nimbly dodged to the side, making Shennong miss.
Shennong frowned, realizing the kid in front