Chapter 108:
The explosion not only killed the Iwa ninja, but also sent Yamata flying back.
"Damn it, what a waste!"
Yamanaka Yanichi, who had rushed over, sighed with regret.
Yanichi was a member of the Yamanaka clan, a group famous for their mind-control and mental-invasion techniques. They specialized in spiritual power, giving them the ability to probe an enemy's mind and extract valuable information. On the battlefield, this skill was especially useful for gathering intelligence. Orochimaru had captured the enemy alive specifically to give Yanichi a chance to explore his memories. Unfortunately, the enemy had self-destructed before that could happen.
"Still lacking battlefield experience, I see," Orochimaru muttered, narrowing his eyes at the body of the Iwa ninja. Though his raw power was undeniable, he recognized that battle-hardened instincts were just as crucial. A brief lapse in vigilance had allowed another enemy to spot the situation and sacrifice himself to take out his comrade.
It was a reminder that even he wasn't infallible.
Shaking off the frustration, Orochimaru turned his attention to the larger situation. He glanced at the two remaining jounin who had slipped away earlier, then back at his own forces. "Stick to the previous formation and sweep the area clean," he commanded. "If you encounter an enemy you can't handle, use the signal flares."
"Understood!"
"Shingo, Ryuichi, and Zen, let's head out!"