But the very next second, Naruto actually attacked without a second thought.
At such close range, he drove a furious punch straight at Gekkō Raito's face.
That punch changed the nature of the situation entirely. From the standpoint of diplomacy between villages, Naruto's actions were tantamount to openly provoking Kirigakure-a spark capable of igniting an all-out war between the two ninja villages.
Yet a moment later, before Naruto's fist could even touch Gekkō Raito-
His body seemed to hit an invisible wall of air, and a terrifying repulsive force sent him flying.
Gekkō Raito had merely activated the power of Shinra Tensei with casual ease.
After being thrown back and landing on the ground, Naruto froze as he felt that familiar, terrifying power.
Wasn't that an ability only Nagato possessed? Why could Gekkō Raito use it too?
"For the sake of our past relationship, I can pretend that attack never happened. But if you dare try it again, you'd better be prepared to face serious consequences."
Naruto gritted his teeth and climbed to his feet. "I'm not afraid of any consequences!"
"Really? Even if I bring Kirigakure's army to your borders and launch an all-out war against Konoha, you're not afraid?"
At those words, Naruto went completely rigid, his face full of shock. "War? You actually want to go to war with Konoha?"
Gekkō Raito gave a cold smile. "I'm not the one who wants war. You are! Attacking me is equivalent to declaring war on Kirigakure! If anyone dares challenge Kirigakure's authority, I won't hesitate to launch a war!"
Hearing those cutting words, Naruto loosened his tightly clenched fists, clenched them again, then loosened them once more.
After struggling with himself several times, Naruto finally deflated helplessly, looking utterly wilted.
There was nothing he could do. If his momentary