The masked Root ninja moved with incredible speed. As one of the top elites of the Root organization, his strength was undoubtedly at the level of an elite Jonin.
His mission was simple: use the girl slung over his shoulder as bait to lure Uchiha Akira to a designated location.
Using the Body Flicker Technique, the scenery around him blurred as it rapidly fell behind.
At the same time, the Root ninja glanced back to check if Uchiha Akira was following. He didn't want to accidentally lose him.
Although Uchiha Akira had awakened the three-tomoe Sharingan, solidifying his strength as a Jonin, he was still just a seven-year-old child, wasn't he?
"What the hell? He's this fast!"
However, the Root ninja nearly jumped in shock when he glanced back.
Uchiha Akira was quickly closing in, moving at a pace clearly faster than his own!
Startled, the Root ninja quickly remembered that Uchiha Akira's master was Shisui of the Body Flicker!
Naturally, his Body Flicker Technique would be at an exceptionally high level.
And considering the extra burden the Root ninja was carrying, it made sense that Uchiha Akira was faster.
Realizing this, the Root ninja no longer dared to underestimate him. He fully mobilized his chakra, pushing the Body Flicker Technique to its limits, increasing his speed further.
"So, are you deliberately trying to lead me into a trap?"
The three-tomoe Sharingan spun as Uchiha Akira noticed the ninja ahead intentionally turning to check on him. He immediately understood the situation.
Though he didn't know what kind of trap lay ahead, knowing that one was set meant he wouldn't blindly follow.
As the ninja increased his speed, Uchiha Akira felt a surge of determination.
He immediately opened the Third Gate of the Eight Gates!
For someone who could barely open the Seventh Gate, unlocking the Third Gate posed almost no burden for Uchiha Akira.
As the Third Gate opened, his chakra surged within him.
In response, the speed of his Body Flicker Technique increased dramatically.
Within just a few breaths, Uchiha Akira caught up and blocked the ninja's path!
"Put her down, and I'll give you a quick death!"
With the Third Gate open, Uchiha Akira's aura was fierce. In the darkness, his blood-red three-tomoe Sharingan gave him a terrifying presence.
The masked Root ninja, unable to show any expression, slowly set the girl down while adopting a combat stance.
Without exchanging any words, Uchiha Akira's figure blurred as he launched himself at the ninja.
A kunai appeared in his hand, aiming straight for the ninja's throat.
His speed was unparalleled!
Clang!
The ninja's sword clashed with Uchiha Akira's kunai, sparks flying in the night.
Despite the initial block, Uchiha Akira's expression remained unchanged as he pressed on with lightning-fast attacks.
Clang, clang, clang!
Under the relentless assault, the Root ninja was forced to retreat continuously!
"How is this possible? This kid isn't just fast-he's overpowering me with his strength!" The Root ninja was internally shocked as he struggled against Uchiha Akira's relentless attack. Indeed, at only seven years old, Uchiha Akira's fierce assault was pushing the elite Jonin back step by step!
In just a few short moves, Uchiha Akira's kunai broke through the ninja's defenses, stabbing straight toward his chest!
However, just as the kunai was about to pierce his heart, a flash of earth-colored light appeared, and a metallic sheen covered the ninja's chest!
Thunk!
Although the kunai penetrated the skin, it only caused a shallow wound. The blade sank about two centimeters before getting stuck, unable to go any deeper!
"What a tough defense!"
Uchiha Akira's expression darkened as he leapt back.
In their brief exchange, although he had gained the upper hand, Uchiha Akira could clearly sense that his opponent's strength was indeed at the level of an elite Jonin!
But a strong defense?
In the last dozen or so simulations, Uchiha Akira hadn't just increased his chakra-his Sharingan's ability to copy and his overall proficiency in ninjutsu had improved significantly!
Taking a deep breath, Uchiha Akira quickly formed hand seals.
Ox, Hare, Monkey!
In just three seals, the technique was complete.
Raising his right hand, a violent blue lightning began to gather in his palm!
S-rank offensive ninjutsu: Raikiri!