Ch-55 Kushina Saved.

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...

As Michikatsu surged forward, it was as if time itself had slowed, allowing him to execute a horizontal slash towards Kari with bewildering ease. Kari, who had backpedaled in shock, could barely comprehend the unfolding events. In his astonishment, he muttered, "How is this even possible? You boasted about defeating me, but you've done it effortlessly. I'm not as feeble as you seem to think."

Michikatsu, a cunning strategist as much as a skilled swordsman, responded calmly, "You're far from weak, Kari, especially by the standards of other villages. But let me pose a question to you. When two individuals possess similar speed and strength, and one can predict the other's every move, who, in your opinion, emerges victorious?"

Kari frowned, slightly taken aback. "What kind of question is that? The answer is quite obvious—the one who can anticipate their opponent's next move will undoubtedly win."

It didn't take Kari long to realize that Michikatsu's question wasn't merely hypothetical. A few moments ago, their battle had indeed placed them on an even playing field regarding speed and strength. However, once Michikatsu had declared his intentions, Kari found himself utterly incapable of countering a single move.

"You mean to say you can see my movements and predict my every action?" Kari inquired.

Michikatsu's response was enigmatic, "Why do you think I have six eyes? They're not merely decoration; they serve a purpose you won't uncover in this lifetime."

Recognizing the futility of his current strategy, Kari chose to retreat with incredible speed. He needed to regroup and devise a new approach to counter Michikatsu's unparalleled ability to foresee his every move. As Kari withdrew, his muscles shifted, a telltale sign detected by Michikatsu's 'Transparent World' perception. Michikatsu tightened his grip on his sword and activated 'Thunder Breathing: Godspeed.' In the blink of an eye, Michikatsu materialized before Kari, his blade slicing through the air and cleanly passing through Kari's neck. The battle had reached a turning point, where Michikatsu's mastery of both combat strategy and his unique ability made him an overwhelming force.

The lifeless body of Kari, the Kumo Jonin, crumpled to the ground, sending shockwaves of horror through the surviving Chunin ninja. Just moments ago, Kari had battled Michikatsu on equal footing, and something inexplicable had transpired. In a matter of seconds, Michikatsu had swiftly and decisively ended Kari's life.

Michikatsu dispelled his 'Shadow Clone Technique,' causing the clone to vanish in a puff of smoke. Meanwhile, Minato, who had been tracking the trail of red hairs left by Kushina during her abduction, stumbled upon the aftermath of the clash. The sight of dead Kumo ninjas and the imposing figure of Michikatsu left Minato with little doubt about what had transpired.

Concern etched in his eyes, Minato turned his attention to Kushina. "Kushina, are you alright?"

Kushina, still recovering from the ordeal, nodded with gratitude. "Yes, I'm fine. Michikatsu arrived just in time and saved me from those Kumo ninjas."

Minato directed his gratitude toward Michikatsu, saying, "Thank you, Michikatsu, for saving Kushina."

Michikatsu responded with a simple nod, his focus unwavering.

At that moment, a team of Konoha Anbu, dispatched by Hiruzen to ensure Kushina's safety, arrived on the scene. Their collective sigh of relief was audible as they observed Kushina unharmed.

However, Michikatsu's anger was palpable as he confronted the Anbu, chastising them, "Are you all idiots? Isn't it your duty to protect Konoha's Jinchuriki? How did she manage to escape?"

The Anbu, while still on edge, offered an explanation, "She tricked us, and she's not to be underestimated. That's how it happened."

Michikatsu shook his head, clearly displeased. "Report everything to the Hokage and Tsunade-Senpai when she returns from the battlefield."

He continued, addressing the situation at hand. "These are the bodies of those I took down, and I've managed to capture this Chunin. His chakra has been sealed, so take him in for further investigation."

The Anbu acknowledged the orders with a nod, one of them saying, "We'll handle it, but you should meet with the Hokage first."

"I know. I'll go see the Hokage first, and then I'll head home," Michikatsu replied, his sense of responsibility unwavering. With that, he vanished in a blur of speed, leaving behind a scene where the balance of power had shifted, but the mysteries surrounding his abilities and actions only deepened.

----

In the Hokage's office, tension hung heavy in the air as Koharu and Homura chastised Hiruzen for the apparent carelessness that had allowed the Jinchuriki to escape.

"Hiruzen, how could you be so careless? You let the Jinchuriki get away," Koharu scolded.

Homura echoed her sentiments, "Yes, this is a grave mistake on your part, Hiruzen."

Danzo, ever calculating and opportunistic, seized the moment to press his agenda. "Hiruzen, that's precisely why I suggested that you entrust me with the Jinchuriki. I could have molded her into the perfect asset for Konoha."

However, Danzo's words were interrupted by a bold and unexpected voice. "Do you have the courage to repeat that in front of Tsunade-Senpai?" The voice belonged to none other than Michikatsu, who entered the room, appearing older than his ten years, and radiating an aura of confidence that belied his age.

Danzo fell silent under Michikatsu's challenging gaze, his ambitions temporarily subdued. Michikatsu then offered a slight bow to Hiruzen and reported, "Hokage-Sama, I've successfully apprehended the Kumo ninjas responsible for kidnapping Kushina. She is now safe and should be returning to Konoha any moment."

The room, once filled with tension and accusations, was now infused with a glimmer of hope and relief. Michikatsu's presence had not only saved the day but had also quelled the rising storm within the Hokage's office.

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