Chapter 40: Ch.40 Akatsuki!
Evening.
In a secluded training ground.
Clang! Clang!
Amid the sharp clashing of metal, the two fighters retreated.
Panting heavily, Haku said, "Phew... Shinji, y-you've progressed so quickly!"
In just a few weeks, Haku had witnessed Uchiha Shinji grow from a novice in taijutsu into someone who even Haku had to take seriously during sparring.
Coupled with the ever-rising fame of Sasuke lately, Haku deeply admired how the Uchiha clan, as a thousand-year-old powerhouse in the shinobi world, produced such extraordinarily talented individuals. Their talent was truly awe-inspiring.
"Is your ranking in taijutsu really only in the twenties?" Uchiha Shinji asked, still catching his breath.
Haku was like a spring— the more pressure Uchiha Shinji applied, the stronger Haku became. If Uchiha Shinji eased up, Haku's performance would be more mediocre. Despite going all out this time, Uchiha Shinji still couldn't gain the upper hand in taijutsu.
"I didn't do well in the last exam," Haku replied, embarrassed, and added, "Let's take a break!"
Uchiha Shinji nodded and walked to the bench on the side of the training ground, picking up a towel to wipe off his sweat.