The moonlight filtered through the dense canopy as Boruto wandered through the forest, frustration and exhaustion weighing on him. His world had been turned upside down—Eida’s Omnipotence had stolen his identity, forcing him into exile while Kawaki lived his life in the Hidden Leaf. With nothing but revenge on his mind, he walked, hoping to calm the storm within him.

A sudden rustle in the trees made him stop cold. His body tensed, instincts kicking in as his hand hovered near his sword. His sharp blue eyes scanned the darkness, heart steady despite the rush of adrenaline.

"Tch… Who’s there?" he called, voice low but commanding. No response, only the whisper of the wind.

Frowning, Boruto moved toward the sound, stepping lightly, just as Sasuke had taught him. His eyes locked onto a figure standing just beyond the trees. Something about them felt… off. No headband, no sign of allegiance. Their posture was too composed, their presence unnatural.

"Who are you?" Boruto demanded, suspicion lacing his voice. He was in no mood for games.