"I understand."
Kawaki Aoba nodded. "I'll improve my strength as quickly as possible and face the challenges ahead."
"Good." Asuma nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, Captain Shinku asked me to tell you that we'll set out again tomorrow and deliver the supplies to the final stronghold. Get some proper rest today and conserve your strength."
"Alright, I understand," Kawaki Aoba replied.
Asuma chatted with him for a few more moments before getting up and leaving.
Kawaki Aoba finished the wine in his cup, walked to the window, and gazed out at the desert beyond the camp.
At the far end of the desert lay Sunagakure's territory, a place filled with danger and the unknown.
Tomorrow's journey would be even more difficult, but he was already prepared.
Early the next morning, Kawaki Aoba got up.
After a night of rest, his body had mostly recovered.
He went to the camp's training grounds and began his morning practice.
He swung his kunai, practicing various ninjutsu and taijutsu. Sweat streamed down his cheeks, yet he did not stop for even a moment.
Only by constantly improving his own strength could he survive in this cruel Shinobi World.
After finishing his morning training, Kawaki Aoba returned to his quarters, ate something simple, then went to meet up with Shinku.
Shinku's injuries had stabilized considerably. Though he still could not engage in high-intensity combat, he was capable of carrying out command duties.
"Is everyone ready?" Shinku asked.
"Ready, Captain," Kawaki Aoba and the other ninja answered in unison.
"Good, move out!" At Shinku's command, the team set off once more toward the final stronghold.
This route passed through a desert with a harsh climate. The days were scorching, the nights bitterly cold, and sandstorms could arise at any time.
More importantly, this desert fell