The Attack Begins

"Prepare to protect Yuu."

Under the Byakugan, nothing could remain hidden. Hizashi Hyuga surveyed the surroundings and sensed several powerful chakra signatures in the eastern area.

"Enemies are approaching. What terrible timing."

Following the direction Hizashi pointed, the Sarutobi Jonin could not make out the enemy's true appearance through the surrounding trees, but he trusted the Hyuga Byakugan's abilities.

"In the coming battle, we need to protect Yuu. Hizashi, find somewhere to hide. This kind of fight is not something you can handle."

Hizashi knew his own strength well. Not only would he be unable to help, he would only become a burden.

"Yes, sir."

Up in the treetops, Gekkō Seiga pressed himself against a nearby tree, then slowly vanished into the darkness.

Lacking powerful offensive ninjutsu himself, all his abilities leaned toward assassination.

"Explosion Release: Landmine Fist!"

Before Kari of Iwagakure even arrived, surging chakra energy had already gathered in his hand. He punched the tree before him, and a terrifying explosion converged, tearing apart everything visible in its path.

"Fire Release! Ash Pile Burning!"

The ash met the explosion, and rather than being extinguished, the two fused together. The blast then soared into the sky, forming a flaming mushroom cloud that ravaged the battlefield without restraint.

The violent wind unleashed by the explosion sent Hizashi, who had only just hidden himself, flying away.

The battlefield was filled with Jonin, each keeping the others in check. No one dared kill Hizashi Hyuga, lest the other side seize an opening.

Hizashi Hyuga was not frightened out of his wits by the explosion. He shouted toward the front:

"Yuu! Enemies are charging in!"

Yuu did not need Hizashi's warning. Still releasing radioactive energy, he had already changed his movements the instant he heard the explosion. The green glow around his body