Your Swordsmanship is Good, But Not Good Enough!

The night grew deeper as the four continued onward, their footsteps making soft rustling sounds through the woods.

Moonlight spilled over the border of the Land of Rivers. Grains of sand in the desert shifted faintly in the breeze, producing a fine, scattered whisper.

Kawaki Aoba stood at the very front of the team, his gaze sweeping across the desolate landscape. The air was filled with the dry scent of dust, mixed with the faint burnt smell of unfamiliar vegetation.

His fingers unconsciously tightened around the ninja tool pouch at his waist. His heartbeat quickened slightly, carrying both anxiety over the unknown and anticipation for the challenge ahead.

"Aoba, don't zone out."

Yuhi Shinku's low, steady voice came from behind him. "The terrain of the Land of Rivers is complicated. Deserts and mountains crisscross each other, and the hidden dangers are far greater than we imagine.

Stay focused."

Kawaki Aoba snapped back to his senses, nodded, and took a deep breath, trying to calm the turmoil within him.

"Yes, Teacher Shinku. I understand."

Though his voice still carried a trace of youthful immaturity, it was filled with unquestionable resolve.

Yuhi Kurenai stepped forward and patted Aoba on the shoulder. The corners of her lips lifted slightly into a gentle smile.

"Don't put too much pressure on yourself, Aoba.

We're a team. No matter what we face, we'll face it together."

Her voice was soft yet strong, as though it could dispel the chill of the night wind.

The fourth member of the team, Nara Yuto, adjusted the forehead protector on the bridge of his nose and lazily cut in, "Tch, Kurenai's right.

But Aoba, kid, you'd better stay sharp. Don't drag us down."

His tone held a hint of teasing, but there was no malice in his eyes—only a trace