It seems today will be very interesting

"Genjutsu?"

The ambushing Sunagakure ninja froze, a flicker of shock flashing through his eyes. He immediately retreated, trying to put some distance between them.

However, Yuhi Shinku moved faster. The blade in his hand flashed, its edge cutting through the air with a sharp whistle as it went straight for the Sunagakure ninja's throat.

"Your perception is far too poor."

Shinku's voice was low and icy. The tip of his blade stopped just a hair's breadth from the Sunagakure ninja's throat.

He did not rush to kill him. Instead, he fixed the man with his sharp gaze, as though he could see straight through his soul.

Cold sweat beaded on the Sunagakure ninja's forehead. His throat bobbed slightly, but he did not dare make a single move.

He had already fallen completely under Yuhi Shinku's Genjutsu.

That seemingly lethal ambush had merely been a trap Shinku had deliberately set, luring him into exposing an opening.

Kawaki Aoba stood where he was and let out a breath, his tense body relaxing slightly.

He lowered his head and looked at his hands. His palms were already soaked with sweat.

For that brief instant, he had almost thought Shinku was truly going to fall.

As a member of Konoha's younger generation of ninja, Aoba had long heard of Yuhi Shinku's strength. Yet seeing him remain so composed in such a perilous situation deepened Aoba's admiration even further.

"Aoba, don't space out! Watch the surroundings!"

Might Guy's voice pulled Aoba back from his thoughts.

His signature green jumpsuit stood out vividly amid the sand and dust. With a short blade in hand, he vigilantly scanned the area around them.

Guy's gaze was fiery and resolute, as though no matter what enemy he faced, he could always ignite endless fighting spirit.

Aoba nodded and swiftly