The dense forest seemed alive with whispers as Naofumi and his party followed a narrow path, the sound of rustling leaves and distant birdsong their only companions. Raphtalia kept her hand on her sword, her tail flicking nervously as they approached a large wooden gate carved with intricate symbols. Beyond it, the faint hum of activity could be heard—footsteps, shouts, and the clanging of metal.

Raphtalia: “I didn’t know the Queen had ties to a place like this.”

Naofumi: “She said this dojo has trained some of the best fighters in the kingdom. If we’re going to get anyone to help us, this is the place.”

Filo pouted, hopping along the path.

Filo: “Why do we need ninjas anyway? I can kick all the bad guys for us!”

Naofumi: “This isn’t just about fighting. We need someone who can sneak behind enemy lines and gather intel—something none of us can do.”

As they passed through the gates, the dojo came into view. It was a sprawling complex of wooden buildings with curved roofs, surrounded by training grounds where masked figures moved in perfect synchronicity. They practiced with kunai, swords, and even bare hands, their movements a blend of grace and lethal precision.

A tall figure in a dark cloak stepped forward to greet them, their face hidden beneath a fox-like mask.

Dojo Master: “Shield Hero. The Queen informed us of your visit. You’ve come seeking assistance?”

Naofumi: “That’s right. We need someone skilled in infiltration and strategy for our next mission.”

The master nodded, gesturing for them to follow. They led the group past the training grounds, where ninjas leaped through obstacles and sparred with each other at blinding speeds. Finally, they stopped in front of a smaller building nestled at the edge of the complex.

Dojo Master: “You’ll find no better than the one inside. But I warn you—they do not take lightly to outsiders.”

Naofumi frowned but nodded. The master slid the door open.