61 Ch-61 Explosion Clone.

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In a distant location, far from Kusagakure, Nawaki voiced his frustration to Michikatsu. "Michi, why did you allow those Iwagakure ninjas to leave like that? It will surely alert them to our presence," he said, clearly dissatisfied with Michikatsu's decision. As they approached Kusagakure, they had sensed the presence of Iwagakure ninjas and had been prepared to confront them. However, Michikatsu had halted their pursuit, leading to Nawaki's dissatisfaction.

Michikatsu explained his reasoning, saying, "I let them go because they'll either send a full team to ambush us, or they'll wait for us within Kusagakure. In either scenario, I have a significant advantage that will ensure our victory."

Relenting, Nawaki replied, "If you say so." He trusted Michikatsu's judgment implicitly and knew he would never put them in unnecessary danger.

After a brief wait, the Iwagakure ninjas entered Michikatsu's sensory range. He warned Nawaki, "Be ready; they're here, and it appears there are quite a few of them."

Nawaki, sensing their presence as well, noted with a serious expression, "They outnumber us by exactly twice, whether it's Jonin, Special Jonin, or Chunin."

Michikatsu maintained his calm composure, not showing a hint of tension.

Soon, the Iwagakure ninjas arrived and stood before the Konoha ninjas. Gari, as the leader of the Iwagakure team, declared, "So our scouts didn't make a mistake. 'Fist Demon' and 'Blood Demon' have arrived together. Today, by defeating both of you, I'll make my name resonate throughout the Ninja World."

Michikatsu chose not to respond to Gari's disdainful words and instead addressed the Konoha squad. "The Hokage has entrusted you all with the title of Elite, and I have faith in the Hokage's judgment. I hope you'll demonstrate your elite abilities as he has described."

The Konoha ninjas nodded in agreement, showing their confidence in their skills. Michikatsu then turned to Nawaki and issued instructions, "You focus on taking down one of the Jonin and concentrate on eliminating the Special Jonins and Chunins."

Nawaki, concerned for his brother's well-being, asked, "What about you? And what about the other Jonins from Iwagakure? You don't intend to take on three Jonins by yourself, do you?"

Michikatsu nodded, forming a hand seal that produced two identical Shadow Clones of himself. He explained in a hushed tone meant only for Nawaki to hear, "While our squad is confident, we shouldn't underestimate the squad in front of us. They are also elite. It's best if you focus on eliminating one Jonin and provide support to our squad."

Nawaki understood the strategy and responded with a simple, "I see."

Gari seethed with anger after Michikatsu's disregard and sneered, "It appears that we ninjas from Iwagakure mean nothing to you."

Michikatsu responded calmly, "You can interpret it as you wish."

In his fury, Gari unleashed 'Explosion Release: Impact,' striking the ground with force. Michikatsu and his shadow clones swiftly retreated to avoid the destructive impact. As they moved backward, a red light flickered in Michikatsu's eyes.

Once Michikatsu and his shadow clones landed, they all activated 'Lightning Enhanced Mode.' Two of the shadow clones moved toward the other two Jonins, creating a balanced battlefield.

Michikatsu, using his real body, unleashed his 'Thunder Breathing Sixth Form: Rumble and Flash' and released black lightning toward Gari. Gari managed to evade the attack by swiftly moving out of the way. After dodging, he taunted Michikatsu, saying, "Your attack is too slow; I can dodge it even with my eyes closed."

Michikatsu, taking Gari's taunt as a challenge, responded confidently, "Oh, really? Close your eyes, and I'll show you."

Gari had displayed disdain toward Michikatsu's attack, but in reality, if Michikatsu unleashed his full speed, dodging the attack would be a nearly impossible feat, even with eyes wide open, let alone closed. It was clear that Gari was underestimating his opponent's prowess.

Michikatsu swiftly employed 'Thunder Breathing Second Form: Rice Spirit,' sending five sword slashes accompanied by black thunder toward Gari. In response, Gari unleashed 'Explosion Release: Landmine Fist,' nullifying all five of Michikatsu's sword slashes.

Realizing that it would be time-consuming to defeat Gari from a distance, Michikatsu made a quick decision to engage in close combat. With astonishing speed, he appeared directly in front of Gari, swinging his sword. However, as he neared Gari, he detected a sudden change in the chakra, a sign of intense volatility. Michikatsu realized that the Gari before him was not the real Gari; it was a 'Explosion Clone' created by Gari.

This revelation was puzzling, as Michikatsu had been vigilant since their encounter began, keeping a watchful eye on all the Iwagakure ninjas. It implied that the Gari they had been facing from the start was merely an 'Explosion Clone.'

Michikatsu had little time to react as the explosive clone detonated. He covered his entire body with 'Lightning Enhanced Mode' and braced for the impending blast. The explosion engulfed him entirely.

Nawaki, witnessing this from a distance, was in shock. He cried out, "No!" Even though he knew of Michikatsu's healing abilities, the intensity of the explosion made him doubt whether Michikatsu could survive such an attack.

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