Genma led the others through the dense forest, and the view suddenly opened up.
A clearing surrounded by towering trees appeared before them.
Yūto looked around. This place looked exactly like the spot in the original story where Might Duy opened the Eight Gates and thrashed the Seven Swordsmen!
He reckoned this was probably where the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist would come ashore.
"You three, stay well back," Yūto said, turning to the three youngsters. "You could get caught in the crossfire once the fighting starts."
But the moment he finished speaking, Ebisu objected:
"Senior, it might be better if we stayed."
"Even ordinary invading ninja would prioritize taking out young genin like us when they saw us."
"Let alone the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist."
"If we stay, we might get them to lower their guard."
"Then, once they stop, you'll have the perfect chance to launch a surprise attack."
Yūto rubbed his chin and thought it over. "That makes sense!"
This kid with glasses really lived up to his future reputation as an elite teacher. He had tactical analyses for everything.
"Then pretend you're on patrol. Remember, your safety comes first."
Meanwhile, by the coast.
"This is the spot!" Suikazan Fuguki waved his large hand, and the Seven Swordsmen's boat ran aground on the rocks with a creak.
He narrowed his eyes at the silent woods. "Sure enough, Konoha hasn't posted any defenses here."
Bang! Munashi Jinpachi suddenly flung out an explosive tag, blowing the boat to pieces.
Amid the flying splinters, Kushimaru Kuriarare stamped his feet in fury. "Are you fucking insane? That was loud as hell!"
"We're not going back anyway." Munashi Jinpachi grinned, revealing a mouthful of sharp teeth. "Once we take Konoha, we'll move straight into the Hokage's building!"
He turned