"Okay."
Yuhi Shinku answered. He walked beside Kawaki Aoba, watching their surroundings for any sudden danger. "Aoba, slow down. Asuma is badly hurt. Don't let him suffer another injury."
"I know."
Kawaki Aoba nodded and slowed to a careful, steady pace. Supporting Asuma, he headed toward the Konoha outpost. "Hang in there a little longer, Asuma. We'll reach the outpost soon. The Medical Ninja can treat you there."
Leaning against Kawaki Aoba's shoulder, Asuma nodded weakly. "Thank you... both of you... Aoba, Shinku... If you run into danger while scouting the base, retreat immediately. Don't push your luck. Your safety comes first."
"We know, Asuma. Don't worry."
Yuhi Shinku smiled, his voice firm. "We'll be careful. We won't take needless risks. Besides, we still have to come back and take you home to Konoha."
Asuma managed a faint smile. He closed his eyes and rested against Kawaki Aoba's shoulder. He needed to regain his strength as quickly as possible. Only then could he help Aoba and Shinku stop the Shadow Pavilion's plan.
Kawaki Aoba supported Asuma as they made their way toward the Konoha outpost, one step at a time. Yuhi Shinku stayed beside them, alert to everything around them. The night wind still howled through the forest, carrying the scent of plants and a faint trace of blood. Against the dark sky, the three figures looked terribly vulnerable, yet they pressed on with quiet resolve.
After about an hour, a faint light finally appeared ahead. Kawaki Aoba's eyes brightened. "Shinku, look. That's the Konoha outpost. We're almost there."
Yuhi Shinku followed his gaze. At the sight of the light, relief broke across his face. "Thank goodness. We've made it. Hang on, Asuma. You'll get treatment soon."
Asuma slowly opened his eyes. Hope flickered in them when he saw the