"This is my daughter! Please protect her!"
Kakashi, with snow-white hair, a mask covering half his face, and a short blade strapped to his back, looked every bit the capable ninja. Hearing the king's words, he exchanged a glance with Kazahana Koyuki before nodding.
"We of Konoha will absolutely not interfere in any political affairs of this country. But I can promise you that she will leave the Land of Snow safely!"
"Thank you!"
After bowing solemnly, the king was about to say something to his daughter when the skylight above the hall suddenly exploded. Kakashi rushed toward Kazahana Koyuki, scooped her up, and turned to look at the king. Though somewhat disheveled, the king was still protected by his retainers. Looking at Kakashi, he shouted loudly, "Take her and go!"
Kakashi immediately turned and left, ignoring Kazahana Koyuki's struggles in his arms as he swiftly evacuated the entire hall. The cold wind howled, and fierce sounds of battle followed from within the hall, but Kakashi paid them no heed. As he dashed out of the palace, a middle-aged man who looked like a steward, having waited there for quite some time, hurriedly identified himself upon seeing Kakashi.
"I am Asama Santayū, ordered to protect Her Highness the princess!"
He produced a token to prove his identity. Kakashi then tossed Kazahana Koyuki into the carriage and said to Asama Santayū, "We must leave this place quickly!"
As he spoke, thick smoke rose throughout the castle, while flames devoured the buildings like a monstrous beast. Asama Santayū climbed onto the carriage, cracked the whip, and rapidly drove toward the docks—the Land of Snow's only exit. Kakashi crouched atop the carriage, vigilantly watching the surroundings for an ambush.
"Ice Release: Wolf Fang Avalanche!"
Upon the snow-covered earth, two white wolves appeared with