Encountering the Enemy

Inside the Forest of Death.

Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura moved swiftly through the woods in a triangular formation.

"Let's find the other teams first."

Sasuke scanned their surroundings.

"We need both the Heaven and Earth Scrolls to reach the central tower as soon as possible."

Naruto, however, looked thrilled.

"Why bother looking?"

"If anyone shows up in front of us, we can just take theirs!"

Sakura said helplessly:

"Do you think everyone will be as easy to handle as ordinary genin?"

"If we run into teams from the Sand Village, Hidden Mist, or Iwagakure, we can't let our guard down."

No sooner had she finished than a familiar voice rang out from the woods ahead.

"Looks like you've already gotten started."

The three immediately stopped.

Kimimaro, Haku, and Karin slowly emerged from the shadows of the trees.

"It's you guys!"

Naruto's eyes lit up.

"I didn't think we'd run into you so soon."

Karin adjusted her glasses and looked the three of them over.

"You aren't hurt, are you?"

"Of course not."

Naruto thumped his chest.

"We just took out a bunch of enemies."

"Really?"

Karin glanced at the scroll in their hands.

"So you've gotten the other scroll?"

Naruto's expression stiffened.

"Not yet."

"Then you'd better hurry."

Karin said bluntly:

"If you keep dragging your team down, forget getting both the Heaven and Earth Scrolls—you might not even pass the second stage exam."

"Who's dragging their team down?"

Naruto's expression changed on the spot.

"I'm the student Teacher You values most!"

"When did Lord You ever say that?"

"He hasn't said it, but I can feel it!"

Karin rolled her eyes.

"Then you'd better prove it with actions instead of just spouting slogans."

"Damn it!"

Naruto rolled up his sleeves.

"Want to settle this right now?"

"Sure."

Karin narrowed