The lightning spear hurtled toward me, fast and sharp enough to impale through armor.
But I wasn't the same shinobi from before.
"Tempest Barrier – Falcon Strike!" I roared, focusing chakra into my palm. A spiraling column of wind and lightning erupted forward, smashing the incoming spear into sparks before blasting its wielder back into a tree.
The Cloud team instantly shifted stance, weapons drawn. "He's fast—take him out!"
---
Hana Steps In
One attacker charged from behind, but before I could turn, a green chakra burst flared—Hana.
Her hands glowed as she struck the man's chest with Chakra Bloom Style: Nerve Petal—a medic-nin disabling technique. His body locked up before collapsing unconscious.
"You're welcome," she said, smirking even under pressure.
"Remind me never to underestimate you," I muttered, spinning to deflect another blade with a kunai.
---
Team Coordination
Our squad quickly formed a defensive line. I took point while Hana provided mid-line support.
I pressed my palm to the ground. "Tempest Barrier: Cyclone Pulse!"
A shockwave of swirling wind and lightning swept outward, disarming two opponents.
But their leader jumped in, releasing a Lightning Release: Fang Cutter, a bladed arc of electricity.
I countered with my Falcon Strike—lightning against lightning—until the clash threw both of us back.
"Why attack a diplomatic mission?!" I shouted.
The leader smirked. "Orders." Then smoke bombs dropped—retreat.
---
Aftermath
Hana rushed over, checking my shoulder where a shallow cut bled. Her hands glowed with healing chakra.
"You're reckless, Arashi," she whispered. "But… thank you for protecting us."
Her touch lingered longer than necessary, eyes meeting mine for just a moment too long.
I felt warmth in my chest, stronger than any jutsu.
---
Cliffhanger:
We returned to camp only to find an ANBU already waiting, holding a scroll stamped with the Hokage's seal. "Change of plans. You're to head directly to Cloud Village… as Konoha's envoy."