The disturbance at the training ground lasted a full hour.
Mifune personally stepped in, leading the Land of Iron's samurai to carry Darui away for treatment. The Hidden Cloud delegation wore grim expressions, but they did not dare make a move openly on the Land of Iron's territory—especially with representatives from Leaf Village, Hidden Rock, and Hidden Sand watching them closely.
Hyuga Xiao stood in the center of the field, the azure starlight in his eyes gradually fading as they returned to the ordinary state of the Byakugan.
Yet on his forehead, where the Caged Bird Seal had once been, a pale golden pattern resembling the trail of stars had emerged. It was the mark of the Tenseigan Prototype, and the badge with which he announced his existence to the entire Shinobi World.
"Today's matches are suspended." Mifune's voice carried unquestionable authority. "All participants are to return to the inn and rest. We will discuss matters again tomorrow."
His gaze swept over Hyuga Xiao and lingered for a moment.
There was warning in that look, scrutiny, and a trace of... barely perceptible complexity.
Xiao gave a slight nod and turned toward the edge of the field.
Kurenai Yuhi immediately came up to him. Her face was still somewhat pale, but clarity had returned to her silver eyes. She seized Xiao's arm, her fingers tightening slightly.
"What you just..." she lowered her voice. "That state..."
"We'll talk when we get back." Xiao cut her off, his tone terrifyingly calm.
The two passed through the crowd, feeling gazes from every direction—wariness, greed, curiosity, and undisguised killing intent.
Leaf Village's ANBU representatives stood in the distance, their stares beneath their masks as cold as blades. Hidden Rock's Kitsuchi stood with his arms crossed, deep in thought. Hidden Sand's Baki kept his head lowered,