Preparing to Launch the Attack

He raised his head, shifting his gaze from a stack of files to Yuhi Shinku.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes were deep and gentle, as though they could see through everything, yet they carried a reassuring strength.

He gently set down his pipe and nodded. "Oh? Shinku, you're back.

How did the mission go?"

Yuhi Shinku paused slightly, lowering his gaze as if weighing his words.

Behind him, Yuhi Kurenai unconsciously clenched her fists, her fingertips turning faintly white as though she were nervous about her father's upcoming answer.

A subtle silence filled the air, making the birdsong outside the window seem especially clear.

"Lord Hokage, this mission... was not fully completed."

Yuhi Shinku's voice was steady, though it carried a trace of heaviness.

He straightened, meeting Sarutobi Hiruzen's gaze openly. "I did my utmost to escort the merchant caravan safely, but because of Kurenai's physical condition, I had no choice but to bring her back to Konoha early.

As for the remainder of the caravan's journey, I entrusted it to the local guard unit. They will continue escorting it to its destination."

Sarutobi Hiruzen's brows lifted slightly as his gaze shifted from Yuhi Shinku to Yuhi Kurenai.

There was a trace of scrutiny in his eyes, as though he were trying to understand the unspoken story between father and daughter.

Feeling the Hokage's gaze, Yuhi Kurenai's body stiffened slightly. But she quickly composed herself, lowering her head and putting on a weak appearance.

"Is that so? What is wrong with Kurenai?"

Sarutobi Hiruzen's voice was gentle, yet laced with concern.

He rose to his feet, slowly walked over to Yuhi Kurenai, crouched down, and examined her carefully.

Yuhi Kurenai's face was somewhat pale, but her crimson eyes remained bright, revealing a stubborn glint.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's gaze lingered on her face for