Kumogakure
Soya and Asahi returned to Kumo and briefed their Raikage on their perilous journey. Throughout their travels, the Raikage dispatched elite ninjas of higher ranks to either capture or eliminate the jinchuriki.
Land of Flowers
Today, Meiko was overjoyed as she finally mastered tree-climbing after countless attempts. She led her father into the forest and demonstrated her newfound skill. Tatsuya beamed with pride at Meiko's accomplishment.
"How does it feel? Pretty amazing, right?"
"Yeah, it's great. I'm proud of you. Now, onto the next challenge: walking on water. No arguments, just focus," Tatsuya replied.
"Huh, I just conquered one skill, and you're already onto the next without celebrating? You're such an uncool dad, you know," Meiko protested.
"No arguments," Tatsuya said firmly, adopting a paternal tone.
As Tatsuya prepared to demonstrate the exercise, their serene surroundings suddenly erupted into chaos. Shadowy figures emerged from the trees, their malicious intent palpable. Meiko, gripped by terror, questioned, "Father, who are these people?"
"Don't panic, Meiko. I suspect they're here to apprehend us," Tatsuya replied calmly, his senses heightened.
"But why, Father? We haven't done anything wrong, you know," Meiko protested again, her voice trembling.
"Don't panic," Tatsuya reiterated, his mind racing to protect his daughter.
A fierce battle ensued between Tatsuya and the ninja assailants, each unleashing powerful jutsus in a deadly dance of combat. Despite his valiant efforts, Tatsuya was overwhelmed by their relentless assault, using all chakra for a teleportation technique, sacrificing himself to ensure Meiko's escape. With a final burst of strength, he deployed a protective jutsu, transporting Meiko to the safety of the Land of Fire.
As Meiko lay wounded and on the brink of unconsciousness due to blood loss, she pondered her uncertain fate.
Will she succumb to her injuries? Will she be captured by those who seek to exploit her power?