Chapter 33
"Sir, we need to conserve our strength, don't we...?"
The bandaged warrior's voice carried a tentative tone, but the white-cloaked warrior simply stepped forward, positioning himself between him and the Konoha team.
"Don't worry, Haku. Since we'll be traveling together for the next few days, we naturally need to confirm whether they're qualified enough to entrust with our backs..." His voice was cold, brimming with confidence and an undisguised challenge.
"But what you said makes sense, Haku. I believe you. Test their abilities for me..."
Although the white warrior's words had an impact on him—he truly wanted to fight personally to assess the reputation of the Konoha shinobi—he reconsidered. This wasn't the only opportunity, and after some thought, he agreed.
The white-cloaked warrior, Haku, nodded slightly, adjusting his grip on his sword, shifting it to a forehand hold, while his other hand hovered near his second blade, ready to strike at any moment.
"I won't disappoint you..." A cold voice drifted from beneath Haku's mask.
Only now did Zixu and the others hear Haku's voice clearly—a neutral tone that suggested he was no older than them.
Yamato, unsurprised by the development, took a moment to observe their surroundings. Seeing that there wasn't a suitable battleground nearby, he suggested they move forward until they found a more open space.
Zabuza agreed, and with that, both sides maintained a wary distance, splitting into two clearly defined teams.
"Don't panic when you encounter situations like this. It's common during missions—both as a test and a warning..." Yamato explained as they moved.