First Encounter

Moreover, at the moment, Mizuki, as a Chunin, definitely has superior strength compared to myself. In this regard, Naruto had a clear understanding. Despite what happened in the original story where Naruto seemingly easily defeated Mizuki, it was only possible due to the power of multiple shadow clones overwhelming him. In this situation, Naruto feels that Mizuki underestimates him, giving him an opportunity to form hand seals. However, without using multiple shadow clones, Naruto doesn't believe he has any advantage. Moreover, the current situation is significantly different from the original story. Mizuki is too close to Iruka, and if Naruto were to use multiple shadow clones, he could seal Iruka's fate within those short two to three seconds. Naruto doesn't want to take that risk; he'll get close enough for a lethal strike.

A glimmer of light shines in Naruto's azure eyes. He rotates his right hand slightly, and a kunai appears in his palm. Naruto exerts minimal force, suppressing and almost eliminating his presence. He moves toward Mizuki's back while the two figures in the field seem entirely focused on each other, unaware of Naruto's approach.

Mizuki takes a moment to clean his kunai, a cold smirk on his lips, his aura exuding chilling confidence. "Iruka, the ninja world isn't for you."

"Since we were once friends, allow me to send you on your way!" Mizuki's words are filled with murderous intent, and his chilling aura intensifies. In the blink of an eye, he lunges towards Iruka.

In a split second, Iruka's pupils contract, and he attempts to evade. However, the pain surging through his body momentarily freezes him, preventing a full change of position. "Farewell, Iruka!" Mizuki declares as the kunai approaches Iruka's left chest.

Everything seems to freeze in the direct vicinity, time standing still. In that moment, a sensation of icy dread permeates Iruka's entire being, as if it were etched into his soul. In an instant, Iruka experiences the fear of death for the second time at such close range. Memories flash before his mind's eye, familiar faces, and a heartfelt apology.

"Father... Mother... I've come to join you..."

"Naruto, I'm sorry..."

No chance for reaction, no possibility for evasion. The kunai is piercing directly towards Iruka's left chest, but then, as if defying fate, it swerves away at the last moment, making a shallow cut instead.

A sharp metallic clang echoes as the kunai meets resistance. A muffled boom follows, accompanied by a familiar voice shouting, "Hah!"

The sight before Iruka is a golden figure, one he holds dear, Naruto Uzumaki. Naruto's face bears a mix of concern and worry as he stands between Iruka and Mizuki. His most cherished student, almost like a brother to him, has just saved his life.

"Ah, Naruto! What are you doing here? Hurry, get away! Mizuki deceived you; he's a traitor to the village! The sealing scroll he had you retrieve is the village's highest secret, only meant for the Hokage to see! Get back now; I'll handle Mizuki!" Iruka urges, struggling to support his injuries, his brow furrowed with pain. In the distance, Mizuki, still somewhat battered, is seen getting up from the ground. His face contorts into a menacing expression, matched by the fresh bloodstains from his previous encounter.

"Run!? Today, none of you will escape! You'll all die right here! I'll personally send you on your way!" Mizuki's voice rings with anger, and his malevolent aura grows stronger.

On the other side, having dispersed into the dirt, he pulls out a syringe from his pocket. Before the two can react, he stabs it into his left arm and rapidly pushes the plunger. In less than a second, the green liquid inside the syringe enters Mizuki's arm, causing his body to swell, and his presence becomes even more menacing.

Iruka and Naruto exchange worried glances as they realize the gravity of the situation. Iruka knows he's in no condition to fight, his body riddled with small wounds. The wound inflicted by Mizuki is also painful and debilitating.

The battle? At this moment, Iruka can barely move, and this realization fills him with dread. His expression turns even grimmer as he contemplates the dire circumstances.

(End of this chapter)