Take Turns on Night Watch Tonight, Don't Be Lazy!

And that skinny one—his waist was bulging. He was probably hiding some kind of weapon."

"So this mission is definitely more than just escorting cargo."

Aoba said solemnly, a trace of gravity in his eyes. "Teacher Shinku must know something, but if he won't tell us, all we can do is stay extra alert."

"Being alert is a must."

Asuma grinned and stopped twirling the throwing knife in his hand, casually slipping it back into the sheath at his waist. "But Aoba, you really do overthink things sometimes. Must be exhausting.

Relax. If something really happens, are the three of us ninja going to be afraid we can't handle it?"

"Three ninja..."

Aoba repeated quietly, but a flicker of unease passed through his heart.

Yuhi Shinku's strength was beyond question. Though Asuma looked carefree and unruly, his combat ability was nothing to scoff at either.

But he himself was only a Chunin. Faced with unknown dangers, he always felt somewhat lacking in confidence.

"Hey, Aoba, you're spacing out again!"

Yuhi Shinku's voice came from up ahead, carrying a hint of impatience. "Hurry up and catch up! Stop whispering back there like a pair of little girls!"

"Coming!"

Asuma called out loudly, pulling Aoba along as he quickened his pace.

The two quickly caught up with the caravan. Yuhi Shinku and Tianshui Jugo were walking at the front, followed by several guards. For a moment, the atmosphere felt somewhat strange.

"Mr. Tianshui, how do you usually maintain that sword of yours?"

Yuhi Shinku seemed especially interested in Tianshui Jugo's sword, his tone carrying a touch of curiosity. "The way you wipe it looks very particular."

"It is merely a habit."

Tianshui Jugo replied blandly. The cloth in his hand slowly passed over the blade, his movements gentle yet following a peculiar