"Mm."
Kawaki Aoba nodded firmly. The uncertainty in his eyes gradually faded, replaced by resolve. "Asuma-sensei, I understand.
"I'll keep at it, train hard, and never give up.
"I'll become a powerful ninja, protect myself, protect my comrades, and protect Konoha."
Asuma smiled and patted Kawaki Aoba on the shoulder. "That's more like it, Kawaki.
"As long as you have that determination, you'll definitely be able to do it."
He paused, then continued, "By the way, Kawaki, although you've already broken down some of the items you collected for sacrifices, there's still some residual aura left behind. Once we get back, we need to clean it up properly. We can't let that sinister aura affect anyone else."
Kawaki Aoba nodded. "Okay, Asuma-sensei. I'll do as you say.
"Once we get back, I'll clean up that remaining sinister aura properly. I won't let it affect anyone else."
His tone was filled with determination. "From now on, I'll never collect items for sacrifices again. I'll never practice that kind of sinister ninjutsu again."
Asuma nodded in satisfaction. "Mm, that's good."
Supporting Kawaki Aoba, he continued forward. "Let's get back quickly. Your wound is still bleeding, and if we don't treat it soon, it'll only get worse.
"Once you've recovered, we'll begin training. I'll first teach you Wind Release Chakra control. Wind Release ninjutsu is fast and powerful—it suits you well."
"Okay, Asuma-sensei."
Kawaki Aoba nodded, a trace of anticipation flashing through his eyes. "I'll study hard. I won't disappoint you.
"I'll work hard at Wind Release ninjutsu, improve my strength through my own efforts, and become a powerful Wind Release ninja."
Asuma smiled. "You'll definitely be able to do it."
The two walked slowly. Konoha was especially quiet beneath the night sky, with only the faint glow of the streetlights illuminating the