An Endless Journey

Yuhi Shinku was right. Though Wood Release: Deep Forest Emergence was immensely powerful, it consumed an enormous amount of chakra. Especially in this lifeless desert, using such a technique was practically a challenge to the body's limits.

However, he had no other choice—the enemies had been too numerous. If he had not suppressed them all at once, the caravan would likely have already been wiped out.

"Aoba, the way you fought just now..."

Asuma hesitated, seemingly choosing his words carefully. "Wasn't that a little too risky? Charging straight into the enemy formation was effective, but the danger was far too great."

Hearing this, Kawaki Aoba lowered his head slightly, his gaze falling upon the longsword in his hand.

The blood on the blade had begun to dry, congealing into dark red spots.

He remained silent for a moment before speaking slowly. "Senior Asuma, I know my style is somewhat aggressive, but sometimes taking the initiative is the only choice.

"They had numbers, but their coordination was poor. I merely seized the opening they exposed."

Asuma frowned after hearing that, clearly somewhat disapproving, but in the end, he still sighed. "You have your own judgment, and I trust your strength.

"But Aoba, remember that we fight as a team. Your life doesn't belong to you alone."

Warmth rose in Kawaki Aoba's heart, and he nodded. "I understand, Senior."

Yuhi Shinku patted Asuma on the shoulder, signaling that he need not worry too much. Then he turned to the other caravan members. "All right, check the supplies and the wounded. We need to leave this place as soon as possible.

"Aoba's forest may have trapped the enemies for now, but desert bandits are cunning. Who knows whether they have another move prepared?"

The caravan members immediately got busy, checking whether the goods