The heat-resistant ninja cloth finally began to smoke and carbonize under the extreme heat, its tough material rapidly turning brittle.
"What?!"
Baki's pupils contracted sharply, his face filled with disbelief.
"How could a mere Genin-level Fire Release burn through my ninja cloth? The purity of your chakra and the temperature of your flames don't match your rank at all!"
Kawaki Aoba offered no further explanation. Taking advantage of the instant the ninja cloth carbonized and became brittle, he suddenly exerted force with his arm and broke free.
Crack!
The carbonized ninja cloth instantly shattered into countless tiny scraps, drifting away with sparks. The restraint was completely undone.
"Finally broke free."
Kawaki Aoba retreated several steps and gently wiped the bloody mark on his neck. Warm blood stained his fingertips, and his gaze grew colder and sharper.
"I never expected a Sunagakure Jonin to be skilled in binding ninjutsu and Wind Release assassination. You hid it well."
"Combat is about concealing your strengths and launching surprise attacks. Do you think you can survive in the Shinobi World through nothing but straightforward exchanges?"
Baki shook off the remaining scraps of cloth in his hand and clenched his fist again. Wind Release chakra surged around him once more, his presence becoming increasingly steady and domineering.
"I have to admit, you've completely piqued my interest.
Kid, your talent far surpasses that of ordinary Konoha youngsters. If I let you grow, you'll surely become a great threat to Sunagakure someday."
"So I have to eliminate you completely here and deny you any chance to grow."
The Sharingan in Kawaki Aoba's eyes continued to spin, tightly locking onto the changes in Baki's chakra. He spoke softly.
"If you want to kill me, let's see if you have what it takes."
"Stubborn to the end."
Baki's face