After leaving Konoha's border, the road to the Land of Iron took on an unfamiliar air of menace. Though it was already early spring, the northern wind still carried a biting chill as it swept across barren ridges and sparse woodland. At Kakashi's signal, Konoha's five-person delegation advanced with exceptional caution, frequently rotating scouts and rear guards. Tokuma Hyuga kept his Byakugan trained on the widest possible area at all times.
Ling walked in the middle of the group. He seemed calm, but his mind was intensely focused. Zetsu's earlier ambush had made it clear that he had become a priority target for the Akatsuki. Senjutsu chakra circulated slowly within him, like invisible feelers probing the surrounding environment for even the slightest unnatural fluctuation of energy. He could faintly sense that the distant dark connection linked to the seal inside Itachi had grown somewhat more "active," as though Sasuke, at its other end, was experiencing some emotional upheaval or increase in power. That kept the faint flame of hope in his heart from dying out completely.
Naruto followed beside Tsunade, looking restless. Every so often, he glanced into the distance, clenching and unclenching his fists. Both his battle with Sasuke in Gobi and the attack on Ling had intensified his sense of urgency.
"Settle down, Naruto." Tsunade did not turn around, but her voice carried unquestionable authority. "The Land of Iron isn't a battlefield, but until we get there, anywhere could become one. Save your energy for when you need it."
Shortly after she finished speaking, Shino Aburame, who was scouting ahead, suddenly raised his hand to signal the group to stop. A faintly trembling kikaichū rested on his fingertip.
"Three kilometers ahead, at the canyon entrance, there are numerous chakra signatures... mixed, hostile, and... traces of dark power!" Shino's