Seeing how Sasuke now looked as though he wanted everyone to keep their distance,
Naruto honestly felt both relieved and heartbroken.
He was relieved that Sasuke had never truly despaired and wanted to give up over these past two years. What hurt was that Sasuke's eyes were now just as devoid of emotion as they had been after the Night of the Massacre.
Although he wanted to reveal himself to Sasuke right away, he had to suppress that impulse for now so he could test Sasuke's strength.
"I won't hold back."
Seeing Sasuke's icy gaze, as though he would kill anyone who dared stand in his way,
Naruto disguised his voice with a low rumble. "What a coincidence. I don't like holding back either."
Snake Aunt stepped aside.
Just then, Karin flashed to Sasuke's side.
"Sasuke, be careful with this guy. He's strong-so strong I didn't even sense him before we arrived."
Sasuke nodded at her words. "He's no match for me. Just wait here."
"Okay. Be careful."
Karin was perfectly normal when she was being serious. Hearing Sasuke's answer, she quickly withdrew to the sidelines to wait.
"Make your move."
Holding the Kusanagi Sword, Sasuke stared at the masked young man opposite him and spoke coldly.
"All right. I'm not particularly good with swords, but fighting you shouldn't be a problem."
Naruto said it with utter ease.
"Hmph."
What Sasuke hated most was this sort of arrogant talk that dismissed him entirely.
Bzzzt.
Sasuke flicked the sword in his hand, and lightning flashed around his body.
Lightning chakra stimulated the cells, allowing a person's speed to surge in an instant.
Sasuke's Straight-Tomoe Mangekyo already enhanced his taijutsu. With Lightning Release stimulating his cells as well, his speed was terrifying.
Before Sasuke's cold snort had even faded, a streak of