In Konoha, a figure staggered toward the village gates, where its longtime gatekeepers, Izumo Kamizuki and Kotetsu Hagane, happened to be on duty. The two spotted Ding stumbling toward them.
They hurried over to support him. Ding had been running for a long time, not daring to stop for even a moment along the way, and had finally made it back to Konoha.
He grabbed Izumo Kamizuki's arm and said, "Quick, quick! Go save Mirai Sarutobi! The enemy has trapped her!"
The moment he finished speaking, he passed out. Hearing his words, the two gatekeepers split up.
One took Ding to Konoha's hospital, while the other headed to the Hokage's Office to report what had happened.
"Lord Shikamaru, we've got trouble! Mirai Sarutobi has been captured!"
Upon hearing this, Shikamaru slammed his hands on the desk and stood up.
"What? What did you say? Mirai's been captured?"
"Mirai Sarutobi's only remaining teammate just came back to report it."
After receiving Izumo Kamizuki's confirmation, Shikamaru sank into his chair, propping his chin on both hands, his gaze sharp.
"Gather all of Konoha's jonin and find Mirai."
"Yes, sir."
Shikamaru couldn't help remembering what his teacher had once entrusted to him. His teacher had hoped he would take good care of his child, yet his own negligence had put Mirai in danger.
He was filled with regret and self-loathing. He regretted not keeping a closer eye on Mirai and hated himself for not being as strong as Naruto and Meihui, strong enough to keep his loved ones safe.
As though suddenly remembering something, he found the Flying Thunder God Kunai Meihui had left behind. Seemingly making up his mind, he infused it with chakra.
With a swish, Meihui activated Flying Thunder God and teleported over.
"Huh? Shikamaru, what's going on? Did someone