Kakashi immediately responded, "Don't charge in recklessly. Visibility is limited within the mist, and a rash attack could easily lead us into a trap. Hold our ground and wait for him to make the first move!"
Asuma agreed, "That's right. Adapt to all changes by remaining unchanged. He can't keep this up forever. The mist ninjutsu continuously consumes chakra; sooner or later, he'll reveal himself."
Zabuza chuckled from within the mist. "Consume chakra? Do you think this little bit of mist can drain much of my chakra? You underestimate me too much."
Kawaki Aoba suddenly spoke, urgency in his voice. "No! His chakra has split into several streams and is moving around us. They're clones meant to hold us back! His real body isn't at the front left!"
Kakashi's pupils contracted slightly as he immediately turned toward the rear. "Behind us! His real body went around us!"
A piercing sound tore through the air from behind them, followed by Zabuza's cold voice. "Quick reaction. Unfortunately, too late!"
Might Guy spun around instantly, crossing his arms to block as he shouted, "Trying to ambush us? You'll have to get past me first!"
A heavy crash of steel rang out. Might Guy was forced back several steps by the blow, his arms faintly numb.
Zabuza Momochi landed steadily, Kubikiribōchō in hand, and looked coldly at Might Guy. "Your taijutsu is impressive. An ordinary shinobi couldn't take that strike from me."
Might Guy shook out his arms, his fighting spirit rising even higher. "Your blade carries real force, but that's all it is!"
Zabuza Momochi raised an eyebrow. "That's all? Then I'll show you my true killing move next."
Asuma rapidly formed hand seals and said in a low voice, "Fire Release: Ash Pile Burning!"
Ash-gray smoke billowed forth, instantly sweeping through the