In Konoha: Three Choices at the Start

A dense storm of razor-sharp senbon came hurtling toward Kakashi like arrows!

A sudden shout rang out behind him.

The ground cracked apart, and a surging shockwave swept up stones and blasted Haku's senbon away!

"You're...!" Haku stood on a branch, staring in disbelief. "You're that little girl from back then!"

"That's right! I never thought we'd meet again!"

Sakura appeared in front of Kakashi, her face full of emotion.

Four years ago, all she could do against Haku was protect Mr. Tazuna. She hadn't even been strong enough to join the fight.

Now, four years later, she could smash Haku's signature move with a single punch.

The passage of time made her feel strangely nostalgic.

"You've grown too. I haven't seen you in years, and you've become much stronger. I doubt I could beat you now."

Haku smiled freely, without a trace of anger.

"I didn't expect this either. Even that little girl has gotten so strong. Those two brats must have surpassed you by now, right, Kakashi?" Zabuza said with unexpected praise.

He recalled everything Naruto and Sasuke had done and smiled.

"They really have surpassed me!"

"Seal us away. Haku and I will do our best to keep ourselves under control!"

Kakashi looked puzzled.

"For us, there's no reason for the dead to remain here," Zabuza said flatly.

"Seeing an old friend like you again was enough."

Haku nodded, wearing a gentle smile.

Kakashi studied them both for a moment, then waved for the Sealing Squad behind him to handle it.

A moment later, a flash of white light rose from Haku and Zabuza and shot into the sky.

Sealing Haku and Zabuza gave the Third Division a tremendous boost in morale, and every ninja fought with all they had.

Seeing this, the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of