Xuandou swept his gaze over the three girls' faces.
"For the next few days, you'll undergo special training. I'll personally teach you some basic combat techniques and teamwork."
"In five days, you'll leave for the Land of Demons to carry out an S-rank mission."
"S-rank?!"
All three girls cried out at once.
Sakura's eyes widened, her mouth forming an O.
Hinata instantly went pale, her fingers twisting the hem of her clothes.
"Sensei..."
"We... we're only Genin... isn't an S-rank mission a bit too..."
"That's right, Sensei!"
Ino hastily chimed in.
"We only just graduated, and we've barely done any C-rank missions. Isn't an S-rank mission far too dangerous?!"
Sakura's expression shifted, however.
"We'll just be handling the odd jobs, while you'll be doing the actual fighting, right, Sensei?"
At that, Xuandou slowly shook his head.
"No, this mission is entirely a trial for you."
"Besides, I have other things to attend to, so I won't be accompanying you."
"What?!"
The three girls' expressions changed completely.
Ino's smile froze on her face.
"Sensei... you... you mean..."
"You're sending three Genin to carry out an S-rank mission on our own?"
"You're not three Genin. You're my disciples."
"Besides, I'll be giving you special training over the next few days."
"As long as you study seriously during these few days, I believe you'll definitely be able to complete the mission."
The three girls exchanged glances, their eyes full of apprehension, but also a flicker of excitement at having such high hopes placed on them.
"Go back and rest, all of you. Tomorrow's special training will be very demanding."
Xuandou waved a hand.
The three rose, bowed, and left the study.
Over the next five days, the teacher and his three disciples were inseparable.
Every morning, before dawn broke, the sounds of