leave

Gaara, despite lacking a natural affinity for Fire Style, still possessed more than enough chakra to perform a basic Fireball jutsu. He used it to overwhelm the technique with sheer power, sending a fireball toward the assailant. Meanwhile, the thick smoke that billowed from the collision of the jutsu was just what they needed. Lady Chiyo had also thrown a few mineral smoke grenades to cover their tracks, ensuring any potential pursuit would be hindered.

The two quickly took advantage of the confusion, fleeing with surprising speed. The masked assailant, realizing that reinforcements were likely on their way, turned and ran in the opposite direction, careful not to draw attention to himself. Both Gaara and the assailant were clearly holding back—neither was going all out, likely reserving their strength for when the stakes were higher.

Meanwhile, Gaara and Lady Chiyo circled the village a few more times, just to be sure they hadn't left any trace behind. They needed to cover their tracks thoroughly, leaving no clues for anyone who might come looking. After ensuring they were in the clear, they found a secluded spot, reverted their appearances to their original forms, and proceeded to retreat to their hiding place.

By morning, the village was abuzz with noise, as if the commotion of the previous night had never happened. Lady Chiyo and her team, appearing unaffected, made their way to the Kage's office to submit their mission report and leave. As they arrived, they discovered they were not alone—several other teams had shown up for the same purpose.

The village attendants explained the noise in the village, attributing it to a massive disturbance that had occurred overnight. Their tone made it clear that the mission had not gone unnoticed, and suspicion was lingering. Despite their explanations, it was clear they hadn't yet found solid proof linking them to the disturbance, but it left an unsettling air of doubt hanging over them.

Lady Chiyo and her team quietly waved their goodbyes and embarked on their week-long journey back to Sunagakure. However, it didn't go unnoticed that Gaara seemed distant from the group, deliberately avoiding interaction. It wasn't long before the reason for his behavior became more apparent—he was keeping something to himself.

Upon their arrival at Sunagakure, they made their way to the mission office to submit their completed task. As they waited outside, Gaara, for the first time, decided to speak up.

"Hypothetically speaking, what would you do if I suddenly disappeared one day?" Gaara asked, his tone uncharacteristically serious.

Temari, without missing a beat, responded firmly, "Like I'd ever sit still, we'd find you wherever you are."

Gaara then glanced at Kankuro, his eyes softening slightly, before sighing. "Well, I'm telling you now—don't bother looking for me. And if you do come after me, train ten times harder. You'll know if I'm dead."

Kankuro stiffened, concern flashing across his face. "Gaara, is everything okay? Is something going on with Rasa or—?"

Gaara cut him off, his voice cool and distant. "It'll be a long time before we see each other again. Try not to die. I don't hold high regards for either of you."

The air around them grew tense as Gaara's words sank in. It wasn't like him to speak in such a way, and Kankuro was on edge, clearly worried for his brother.

At that moment, Lady Chiyo finished with her report and walked into the scene, just in time to witness the heart-to-heart between Gaara and his siblings. She watched them for a moment, then gave them a knowing look, silently acknowledging the bond they shared, even if it was a little rough around the edges.

With the mission officially completed, Lady Chiyo turned toward Gaara and his siblings, ready to move on, but it was clear that something had shifted in Gaara's demeanor—something that might not be so easily resolved.