Chen Xing walked through the streets of Konohagakure with Hinata Hyuga and Hanabi Hyuga.
The village was still recovering, but the main streets had begun to reopen.
"Teacher Kurenai!" Hanabi suddenly called out.
Kurenai Yuhi turned around in surprise.
Nearby, Kakashi Hatake and Might Guy had just stepped out of a shop, their expressions serious.
Chen Xing immediately noticed the tension.
"What happened?" he asked.
Kakashi glanced toward the village outskirts.
"Two suspicious ninja entered Konoha," he said. "Black cloaks with red clouds."
Chen Xing's eyes narrowed slightly.
Akatsuki.
---
Chen Xing turned to Hinata and Hanabi.
"You two go back first."
Hinata nodded quietly, sensing the danger. Hanabi hesitated but followed.
Once they left, Chen Xing said,
"Let's move."
Without wasting time, he leapt forward, heading toward the forest outside the village.
Kakashi and the others followed closely.
---
Deep in the forest, near a quiet lake—
Two figures stood waiting.
Itachi Uchiha and Kisame Hoshigaki.
Kisame rested his hand on the bandaged hilt of Samehada.
"It seems they've arrived," he said with a grin.
Itachi remained calm, his Sharingan spinning slowly.
---
Moments later, Chen Xing and the others appeared.
Kakashi's gaze sharpened instantly.
"Itachi…"
"It's been a while, Kakashi," Itachi replied calmly.
Kakashi uncovered his Sharingan, his expression tense.
"What do you want in Konoha?"
Kisame smirked.
"So you still recognize us. That saves time."
---
Chen Xing stepped forward slightly, observing them.
Kisame's eyes locked onto him.
"Peacock King… last time you escaped. This time won't be so easy."
Chen Xing smiled faintly.
"You should be careful what you wish for."
---
Before Kisame could move further—
A green figure flashed forward.
"Boom!"
A powerful kick intercepted him mid-charge.
Kisame raised Samehada to block but was still forced back several steps.
"Sorry," the man said confidently.
"Your opponent is me—"
Might Guy grinned, striking his signature pose.
"The Blue Beast of Konoha!"
---
Kisame steadied himself, eyes narrowing.
"Taijutsu specialist… interesting."
Itachi spoke calmly from the side.
"Don't underestimate him. His strength rivals Kakashi's."
Kisame's expression turned serious.
Then, without hesitation, he rushed forward again—this time fully focused on Guy.
---
The battle had begun.