Ao's single eye swept coldly over Jade, and he gave a faint snort. He clearly thought little of her explanation.
His gaze returned to the six young shinobi from Konoha and Kumogakure, lingering on Damian and Boruto in particular.
"Since this is an exchange," Ao said, his voice softening even as his intent grew sharper, "why waste time on children's games? In the end, real shinobi prove themselves through strength."
He turned slightly and gestured to the six behind him. "These are members of the new generation of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, whom I've recently trained and brought together."
"Opportunities like this are rare. Let them have a proper 'exchange' with you 'elite' youngsters from Konoha and Kumogakure."
"Let's see what the next generation of the Great Shinobi Villages is really made of in this so-called era of peace."
Kagura's heart sank. He quickly looked over the six behind Ao: Kurosuki Shizuma, Hebimay, Fuguki Suikazan, Hassaku Oimichi... The Ninja Sword in each one's hand radiated Chakra that could not be taken lightly.
Their eyes held none of the calm of an ordinary sparring match. They looked more like hunters waiting to test their prey.
Kagura had heard of Elder Ao's training methods. They bore the cruel remnants of the old Village of the Bloody Mist. One wrong move in this "exchange," and there could be bloodshed!
"Elder Ao, I'm afraid this isn't appropriate!" Kagura protested urgently. "They're all promising young shinobi from their villages. They came to Kirigakure for a friendly exchange."
"To throw them into such a fiercely competitive real fight could lead to serious injuries. That would betray the purpose of this exchange and might even spark needless conflict! Please reconsider!"
But caution rarely dampened the fire of youth.
"Oh? The Seven Ninja Swordsmen of