Deliberate Escalation of Sand Sea Conflict and Hidden Trumps of the Exploration Team

A golden flash blinked past.

The figure of Namikaze Minato appeared in the center of Sand Sea Basin like a precisely dropped chess piece.

The slight dizziness brought by the space-time ninjutsu was instantly washed away by the biting killing intent rushing toward him. Before him were more than ten Konoha companions wearing exploration team uniforms, their backs pressed against each other as they formed a defensive circle, their faces full of the astonishment of surviving a disaster.

On their periphery, dozens of Sunagakure shinobi had completed an encirclement, and the leading Jonin Baki had a trace of bewilderment flash across his face, which was weathered by wind and sand all year round, due to Minato's sudden appearance.

Yet the bewilderment vanished in an instant, replaced by an even heavier vigilance.

"Full retreat, this is an order." Minato did not look at Baki; his voice was calm and clear, directly issued to the surrounded exploration team.

The appearance of a hero should rightfully have been met with cheers and obedience from companions.

However, the expected scene did not happen.

The person in charge of the exploration team, a seemingly unremarkable middle-aged shinobi, not only did not retreat, but instead stepped forward and stood by Minato's side.

He did not look at Minato, simply raising his head calmly to meet Baki's gaze.

"Commander-in-chief, my mission is not yet finished."

His voice was equally calm, yet carried an unquestionable meaning. There was no absolute obedience to a superior commander in this voice; instead, it resembled an announcement among equals.

Minato's azure eyes contracted slightly.

He saw the other person's gaze clearly. That was not the look an ordinary exploration team member should have; it was the absolute calmness belonging to an ANBU agent who had erased all superfluous emotions.

This person was