Chapter 26: The Calm Before the Storm
The early morning air was crisp as Nicolas walked through Konoha's bustling streets. Villagers moved about their routines, their laughter and chatter providing a stark contrast to the battles raging in his mind. He hadn't told anyone about the masked shinobi's words that still lingered like a shadow, but he knew it was only a matter of time before they struck again.
As he reached the training grounds, Rina was already there, arms crossed and her foot tapping impatiently. "You're late," she teased.
"You're early," Nicolas countered with a grin, though his heart felt heavier than he let on.
"Come on, then," Rina said, tossing him a kunai. "Let's see if Kakashi's beating helped you improve."
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A New Technique
Rina's speed was astonishing. Her movements were precise, her strikes relentless. Nicolas was forced to push himself, relying on the reflexes he had honed over the past few days.
"You're faster than before," Rina admitted, leaping back to dodge his blade. "But speed alone won't win you fights."
Nicolas smirked. "Then I guess it's time to show you something new."
Channeling his chakra, Nicolas focused on his blade. A faint glow began to emanate from it, a sign of his growing control. He had been experimenting in secret, trying to combine his innate power with the skills he was learning in Konoha.
Rina's eyes widened as Nicolas surged forward, his blade moving in an unpredictable pattern. She barely managed to deflect the strike, the force sending her skidding backward.
"That's new," she said, breathing heavily.
"It's not perfect," Nicolas replied, lowering his blade. "But it's a start."
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A Warning Delivered
As their sparring session ended, Kotetsu approached the training grounds, his expression serious. "You two are needed in the Hokage's office," he said.
Nicolas and Rina exchanged a glance before following him.
When they arrived, Tsunade was already seated, a map spread across her desk. "We've received word from a scout near the border," she said without preamble. "The masked shinobi are gathering again. This time, their numbers are larger."
Rina frowned. "How many are we talking about?"
"Enough to be a serious threat," Tsunade replied. "And they've brought reinforcements—unfamiliar faces with unusual abilities."
Nicolas felt a chill run down his spine. "What's the plan?"
Tsunade's gaze fell on him. "You're not ready for direct combat with them yet, but we need to understand their movements. I'm assigning you to a reconnaissance mission. Gather as much information as you can, but don't engage unless absolutely necessary."
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Preparation
Back at his quarters, Nicolas began gathering his gear. The mission was straightforward, but the weight of responsibility pressed down on him. The masked shinobi weren't just enemies—they were pieces of a puzzle he was still