The other black-robed man gathered Wind Release Chakra, forming a sharp blade of wind in his hand, and slashed at Kawaki Aoba's back. "Wind Release: Blade of Wind!"
Kawaki Aoba sensed the attack behind him. His eyes narrowed as he dodged sideways, then swept his right hand out, sending a streak of blue Lightning Release Chakra toward the Water Dragon Bullet. "Lightning Release: Lightning Blade!"
The blue Lightning Blade struck the Water Dragon Bullet with a sizzling hiss. The water dragon shattered into a spray of droplets, but the Lightning Blade kept going, shooting toward the black-robed man who had used Water Release.
The man's expression changed. He hurriedly formed Hand Seals again. "Earth Release: Earth Flow Shield!"
Another Earth Wall rose to block the Lightning Blade. This time, however, the attack pierced straight through. Though weakened, it still struck the man's shoulder. He grunted as black blood seeped from the wound. He had clearly been poisoned.
"Second Brother!"
The black-robed man wielding the Wind Blade roared at the sight. He poured more strength into his attack and slashed at Kawaki Aoba, even faster than before.
Kawaki Aoba sneered. Rather than dodge, he unleashed the Lightning Release Chakra around him, forming an enormous shield of lightning. "Lightning Release: Chidori Stream: Full Coverage!"
Blue lightning enveloped him. The instant the Wind Blade struck the shield, it shattered. Lightning then raced back along the path of the attack toward the black-robed man.
The man's face changed drastically. It was too late to retreat. Lightning struck him, and he let out a piercing scream as his body convulsed. His black robe burned to a crisp, and he soon collapsed, motionless.
"Fourth Brother!"
The tall black-robed man was beside himself with rage. He glared at Kawaki Aoba, his voice thick with murderous intent. "You