Yukari Uchiha (English)

Chapter 41

While I'm speaking with Itachi and Izumi, Kitsune projects an image into my mind—a shadow swiftly approaching us. My thoughts immediately shift to combat mode, and my body tenses. At the same moment, I hear the metallic clang of a kunai as Kakashi leaps from his hiding place, and Itachi moves fluidly into a defensive stance. The tension in the air is almost tangible.

"There are two more," Yako's sharp, focused voice echoes in my head. "To your left, about three meters away behind the house wall. The other is behind you, five meters away, on the roof."

I nod slightly as I spring into action. My legs move instinctively, and I leap over the first attacker. My mind remains calm despite my lack of vision, relying entirely on Yako's precise descriptions and Kitsune's vigilant eyes.

With a well-aimed throw, I send a series of kunai in the direction Yako described. The kunai are connected by wires tightly gripped in my hands, but the sound of impact is off—they barely miss their mark. I grit my teeth. "Damn," I think to myself. "Just relying on Yako's directions won't be enough to land a hit."

I land lightly on the ground, my fingers instinctively forming hand seals. "Raiton: Raito Dangan," I murmur as a familiar tingling courses through me, lightning chakra surging along the wires. The electricity races through the connections, briefly illuminating the surroundings before exploding outward. A loud crackle and a sharp bang fill the air as the lightning reaches the hidden attackers.

A brief cry of pain confirms that my attack hit its target. Through Kitsune's eyes, I see the two figures stumble before hastily retreating. The wires in my hands still vibrate slightly as I reel them back in.

Turning, I hear Kakashi and Itachi focusing on the remaining assailant. But before they can apprehend him, he vanishes in a puff of smoke. The battle is over, but the tension lingers. My senses are heightened, and I feel Kitsune and Yako continuing to monitor the surroundings.

"Yako, track him, please," I direct my loyal companion mentally. His presence in my mind intensifies, a quiet hum of determination and agreement. Without another word, I know he's already moving, silent and purposeful.

"You're still formidable, even without your eyes," Kakashi's voice comes from behind me, calm but tinged with a hint of admiration. "Those were definitely Anbu, and we both know who sent them."

I turn my head slightly toward him and smile, my breathing still a bit fast from the adrenaline rush. "I don't think the unit expected you to be here, Kakashi. You stayed perfectly hidden in the shadows." My words are honest, carrying a touch of admiration for his unparalleled skills.

Kakashi gives a slight nod, his posture remaining vigilant as if anticipating another attack at any moment.

"I'll take Izumi home and join you afterward, Yukari," Itachi says, his deep voice carrying a note of concern he can't quite hide.

I shake my head gently and offer a reassuring smile. "Thanks, big brother, but I'll be fine. Kakashi is still nearby, and Yako is tracking one of them as we speak. We'll ensure there's no more threat."

Izumi, who has been silent until now, steps forward, her eyes filled with worry as she looks at Itachi. "What's going on here? Why are Anbu targeting Yukari?" she asks, her voice sharp and full of concern as her gaze shifts between us.

Itachi exhales softly, his brow furrowing as he searches for the right words. "Izumi, this isn't the right place to talk about it," he finally says, his tone gentle but firm. "I'll explain, but not here."

I sense Izumi's unease, her struggle to suppress her curiosity and worry clear in her posture. Reluctantly, she nods, respecting Itachi's judgment despite the difficulty of holding back her questions. The tension in the air remains palpable, but I know this isn't the moment to reveal everything.