The two walked side by side toward Konoha. The fading glow of dusk stretched their shadows long. The forest was silent, broken only by their footsteps and the rustling of leaves in the wind. Kawaki Aoba walked behind, his gaze fixed on the distance, his eyes carrying a measure of resolve. He silently swore to himself that this time, he would stop Sasori of the Red Sands, protect Konoha, protect those by his side, and never allow tragedy to repeat itself.
"Aoba, what are you thinking about?"
Yuhi Shinku noticed something off about Kawaki Aoba. He turned to look at him and asked gently.
Kawaki Aoba came back to his senses and shook his head, a faint smile appearing on his face. Though it was somewhat forced, it was still moving. "Nothing. I was just thinking that we have to win the battle three days from now. We can't let Sasori of the Red Sands' scheme succeed."
"Don't worry. We'll win."
Yuhi Shinku nodded, his tone firm. "Konoha's ninja have never feared any enemy. No matter how strong Sasori of the Red Sands is, no matter how many traps he has set, we'll dismantle them one by one and protect our home."
"Mm."
Kawaki Aoba nodded, his gaze becoming resolute once more. "By the way, Teacher Yuhi, why do you think Sasori of the Red Sands wants to attack Konoha's supply depot? Is it really just to seize supplies? I have a feeling it isn't that simple."
Yuhi Shinku furrowed his brow and pondered for a moment before saying, "You're right. It definitely isn't that simple.
Ever since Sasori of the Red Sands betrayed Sunagakure, his whereabouts have been unknown. Gathering rogue ninja and attacking Konoha can't possibly be just for supplies. Perhaps he has an even greater scheme—perhaps he