Setting out to crush the Akatsuki (thanks to my handsome Jiang for the extra chapters-cheers!)

Qingxue Uchiha raised an eyebrow.

The half-drawn blade gleamed coldly in the dim light. A cool, sharp glint shone in her eyes, piercing straight into the heart like a blade of ice.

"Ino."

Qingxue's voice was calm, yet carried an invisible pressure. "Are you really sure you can get close to Yemu?"

Her tone was a silent warning, as though that partially sheathed sword could instantly cut down anyone who dared approach.

Qingxue tilted her head slightly, her icy gaze sweeping over Ino at Yemu's side.

It carried an unmistakable hint of suspicion and menace.

"Do you think," she asked, her lips curling slightly, her voice low and laden with meaning, "my sword would agree?"

Ino immediately felt an invisible pressure bear down on her and instinctively took half a step back.

Her eyes widened slightly, as though alert to the murderous intent drawing closer.

Even the temperature seemed to plummet. The atmosphere grew tense, and every breath felt heavy.

"Wait... isn't something a little wrong with this picture?"

Yemu looked helplessly at Tsunade, a trace of teasing resignation in his voice.

"Lord Hokage, are you sure you aren't stirring up trouble on purpose?"

"Do you think I've lived too long? Trying to send me to an early grave?"

An awkward smile appeared on Tsunade's face. She coughed a few times and nervously rubbed her temples.

She had never expected the romantic entanglements around Yemu to be so complicated and delicate.

"Yemu, since you can't decide," Tsunade paused, regaining her composure, "why don't we discuss it with the Elders Council and choose a candidate for you?"

Yemu shot Tsunade a cold glance, his eyes holding a question from the depths of his soul. "Lord Hokage, are you serious?"

Just then, Kakashi Hatake covered his mouth and chuckled. A sly smile