The Konoha ninjas were entrenched in a defensive stance, orchestrating a strategic blend of illusions and ninjutsu to withstand the relentless frontal assault from the Kumo Ninjas. Though this approach appeared somewhat passive, it was the only viable option given the third unit's comparatively inferior combat capabilities. Engaging directly would likely result in their defeat.
Fumori Masaki, alongside Danzo and Rimi, had received explicit instructions from Senju Tōka. Their mission was to flank the Kumo Ninjas and strike decisively to alleviate the pressure on the third unit. The group set off immediately, guided by Hyūga Kei, with the goal of neutralizing as many Kumo Ninjas as possible.
As they advanced, Fumori Masaki turned to Rimi with a serious expression. "When the battle begins, stay close to me. We need to be in sync. If things get chaotic, send signal to me immediately."
Rimi nodded in understanding. Their partnership was seamless, forged through countless battles and a deep, unspoken bond that often transcended the ordinary. Their coordination in combat was exceptional, and they frequently surpassed their usual limits when fighting together.
Fumori Masaki's faith in Rimi's combat skills and judgment was unwavering, so he kept his additional instructions brief. "When you engage the enemy, stay focused. If you find yourself in a tight spot and need assistance, remember to use the signal we discussed."
Rimi acknowledged the instruction with a resolute nod. "Understood. If I can handle it on my own, I won't send signal. Only if it's absolutely necessary."
Just then, Danzo's voice cut through the tension. "Alright, Masaki, stop discussing strategy with your wife. We're about to engage the enemy. Prepare yourself."
Fumori Masaki offered an apologetic smile to Danzo, recognizing that his concern for Rimi might seem unorthodox in the eyes of a traditional ninja. Nonetheless, he refocused his attention on the task at hand.
Fumori Masaki concentrated, channeling his Senjutsu Chakra and activating the Sage Mode. His left side was soon covered in intricate patterns that glowed with a soft light. He then tuned his senses, recalling the state of heightened awareness he had experienced in previous battles. Although he had been on edge during his fight with the Third Raikage, which may have led to a minor overreaction, his current state was well-calibrated.
The Sage Mode significantly enhanced his perception, allowing him to detect the subtle ripples caused by the movements of the enemy. This enhanced sensory ability, unique to his personal Sage Mode, provided him with valuable insights into the Kumo Ninjas' positions and movements.
As Fumori Masaki and his team approached, they saw the Kumo Ninjas in the distance. The initial sight of the enemy caused Fumori Masaki to spring into action. His enhanced perception allowed him to identify the Kumo Ninjas in the front line and close in on them swiftly.
The lead Kumo Ninja, caught off guard by Fumori Masaki's sudden appearance, barely had time to react. As the ninja drew his long sword, Fumori Masaki moved with lightning speed. In the blink of an eye, the Kumo Ninja was overwhelmed, his body exploding in a mist of blood.
The speed at which Fumori Masaki operated was startling. The Kumo Ninja's reaction was too slow to counter his movements, resulting in a swift and brutal takedown. Fumori Masaki didn't stop there. He proceeded to cut down another enemy, kicking the incapacitated Kumo Ninja into a group of his comrades. The sheer force of the kick sent the enemy crashing into a tree, and a burning seal followed, ensuring the Kumo Ninja's demise.
As the Kumo Ninjas began to recover and fight back, one of them activated the Thunder Release Chakra Mode, a technique that amplified their physical abilities with lightning chakra. The enhanced strength and speed were formidable, but Fumori Masaki saw through the ruse. Compared to the Third Raikage's Thunder Release, this version was significantly weaker. It was a temporary boost rather than a sustained enhancement.
Fumori Masaki met the opponent head-on. His chakra blade, imbued with wind attribute chakra and refined by Senjutsu Chakra, sliced through the Kumo Ninja's lightning Release armor with ease. The armor proved inadequate against Fumori Masaki's powerful strikes, which cut through both the enemy's defenses and flesh.
Danzo and Rimi arrived on the scene just as Fumori Masaki was dispatching his fourth Kumo Ninja. Their rapid approach and the sight of Fumori Masaki's efficiency left them impressed. The speed and precision with which Fumori Masaki operated suggested that he had honed his skills significantly, possibly more so than during their previous encounters.
Danzo, observing the unfolding battle, decided to make his move. With a confident smirk, he began forming hand seals. "Let's see how he likes this." Danzo inhaled deeply and released a barrage of invisible air bombs, the Vacuum Jade technique.
The vacuum bombs created by Danzo were devastating. They were not only numerous but also incredibly fast, capable of tearing through trees and armor alike. The Kumo Ninjas, despite their confidence in their lightning Release armor, found themselves in a dire situation. Many tried to evade, but some were caught off guard, pierced by the vacuum bombs.
Danzo's attack disrupted the Kumo Ninjas' formation and caused chaos. Konoha's forces seized the opportunity to press their advantage. The forest turned into a battlefield of frenzied combat as the Kumo Ninjas struggled to regroup and counter the relentless assault.
Amidst the turmoil, Rimi's skill and dedication were evident. Despite her typically peaceful nature, she fought with determination and precision, fulfilling her role as a ninja with unwavering commitment. Her actions were decisive, and she handled her opponents with both skill and resolve.
Fumori Masaki continued to cut through the Kumo Ninjas with unrelenting speed and accuracy. The sheer efficiency with which he eliminated his foes was unmatched, and it soon became clear that he was a formidable force on the battlefield.
The situation escalated further when a new, formidable adversary appeared. A dazzling golden light streaked through the forest at an incredible speed. Fumori Masaki, sensing the powerful presence, raised his sword to defend himself. The golden light was revealed to be a blonde woman clad in lightning armor. She was none other than Sora, who had narrowly escaped him in a previous encounter.
Sora's appearance was striking. Her lightning armor emitted a brilliant golden glow, reminiscent of the "Golden Flash" in its intensity and speed. Her arrival signaled a new level of danger for Fumori Masaki. He noted her formidable aura and prepared himself for the confrontation.
Sora's gaze was intense as she faced Fumori Masaki. "So it's you. I didn't expect to run into you here," she declared with a fierce determination. "I've been waiting for this moment. Let's settle this."
Fumori Masaki was taken aback by her confidence. "You've come a long way since our last encounter. Where are the Kumo Ninjas?" he asked, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation.
Sora did not respond directly. Instead, she advanced with swift, calculated movements, her lightning armor crackling with energy. Her speed and precision made her a daunting opponent, and Fumori Masaki braced himself for the clash.
As they engaged, the battle took on a new dimension. Sora's lightning-infused strikes were swift and powerful, challenging Fumori Masaki to keep up with her formidable speed. Their combat was intense, and each blow exchanged was a testament to their exceptional skills.
The forest was alive with the sounds of battle as the Kumo Ninjas continued to fight against Konoha's forces. Amid the chaos, Fumori Masaki and Sora's duel became the focal point. Their clash represented not just a battle of strength but also a clash of wills, each determined to emerge victorious.
As the battle raged on, it was clear that the outcome of this confrontation would have significant implications for both sides. The fight between Fumori Masaki and Sora was more than just a personal rivalry; it was a pivotal moment in the broader conflict.
-------------