Three Years Later
After fusing with Uzumaki blood, Jun Ma Lu's physique became even stronger. The loss of the Cursed Seal no longer affected his combat power, and his strength continued to grow steadily.
Samei and Karin progressed more slowly, but under Chen Xing's guidance, both improved significantly.
A purple blur flashed across the lake.
The afterimages gradually disappeared as Chen Xing appeared before Jun Ma Lu, Samei, and Karin.
Since Jun Ma Lu's strength far exceeded that of the other two, Chen Xing often assigned them missions together but instructed Jun Ma Lu not to interfere unless they faced genuine danger.
---
Time passed quickly.
In the blink of an eye, three years went by.
During these three years, Chen Xing further refined the Flying Thunder God Technique. Within the range of his sensory abilities, he could teleport instantly without relying on marked kunai.
Under Chen Xing's guidance, Hinata, Mei, Kurenai, and Haku all experienced tremendous growth in strength.
Hinata advanced to elite jōnin level.
Kurenai became one of the strongest genjutsu specialists among the villages.
Haku reached Kage-level strength through the mastery of Ice Release.
Mei Terumī continued to improve her Lava Release and Boil Release while governing Kirigakure.
Jun Ma Lu's progress was even more remarkable.
After receiving Uzumaki blood and being cured of his illness, his Shikotsumyaku developed rapidly. Following Chen Xing's advice, he created several unique bone techniques and eventually reached Kage-level combat power.
Samei also reached Kage level after years of training.
Karin's combat strength lagged behind the others, but her chakra reserves, sensory abilities, and healing techniques became exceptional. Her Uzumaki bloodline had yet to fully awaken, leaving considerable room for future growth.
Meanwhile, Gaara officially became the Fifth Kazekage of Sunagakure.
As one of Sunagakure's closest allies, Celestial Village sent representatives to congratulate him upon his appointment.
---
Celestial Shadow Office
Inside the spacious office, a light-blue barrier isolated the room from outside disturbances.
Chen Xing reclined comfortably in his chair.
Across from him sat Mei Terumī.
Years had only enhanced Mei's beauty and maturity. As Mizukage, she carried herself with elegance and authority.
Mei glanced at him and smiled.
"You seem unusually relaxed today."
Chen Xing chuckled.
"For once, there isn't a mountain of paperwork waiting for me."
Before Mei could respond, a knock sounded at the door.
"Come in."
The door opened.
Haku entered carrying several documents.
Seeing Mei already present, she smiled knowingly.
"Mizukage-sama, you're here as well."
Mei nodded.
Haku placed the documents on the desk.
"Summer Star sent this intelligence report. It seems urgent."
Chen Xing opened the report.
His expression immediately became serious.
"Gaara has been captured."
The room fell silent.
Mei's smile disappeared.
"The Akatsuki have started moving?"
Chen Xing nodded.
According to the intelligence, Akatsuki had launched an operation against Sunagakure and successfully captured Gaara, the host of Shukaku.
Sunagakure had already sent requests for assistance to both Konoha and Celestial Village.
Mei frowned.
"What are you planning?"
Chen Xing folded the report and set it down.
"Gaara has supported many of our long-term plans. We can't allow him to die."
"Will you go personally?"
Chen Xing shook his head.
"Not yet."
After a moment of thought, he made his decision.
"Send Jun Ma Lu, Samei, and Karin."
---Rescue Mission
Not long afterward, Jun Ma Lu, Samei, and Karin arrived at the Celestial Shadow Office.
"Chen Xing-sama."
The three bowed respectfully.
Jun Ma Lu immediately sensed the seriousness of the situation.
"What happened?"
Chen Xing handed them the intelligence report.
"Gaara, the Fifth Kazekage of Sunagakure, has been captured by Akatsuki."
The expressions of all three changed.
"Akatsuki?" Karin asked.
Chen Xing nodded.
"Sunagakure has requested assistance. Konoha has already dispatched a rescue team."
He looked at the three of them.
"Your mission is simple."
"Assist in rescuing Gaara and gather as much intelligence on Akatsuki as possible."
Jun Ma Lu's eyes sharpened.
"We understand."
Chen Xing stood and looked toward the direction of the Land of Wind.
"The Akatsuki members involved are not ordinary opponents."
"Be careful."
"Yes, Chen Xing-sama."
Without further delay, Jun Ma Lu, Samei, and Karin departed immediately for Sunagakure.