In a hidden cave three kilometers to the northeast, the battle ended even more swiftly and thoroughly than the one at the bridge.
When Minato and Duanmu Ci descended upon the ritual stronghold carefully established by Kirigakure, the few remaining Kirigakure ANBU tasked with guarding the site and preparing the ritual did not even have time to put up a proper resistance. Before the absolute power of the Yellow Flash and Wood Release Sage Jutsu, their resistance was like trying to stop a chariot with a mantis's arms.
Minato's Flying Thunder God Kunai were like invitations from the Grim Reaper. Every flash of golden light was accompanied by the fall of a Kirigakure ANBU.
Duanmu Ci, meanwhile, controlled the vines and wooden structures already present within the cave. Like giant serpents come alive, they instantly wrapped around the remaining enemies, strangling them or piercing them outright with sharp wooden spikes.
The entire cave was in ruins. The rune-carved altar was completely destroyed by a single Rasengan from Minato, while the enormous specialized vessel meant to contain the Three-Tails' Chakra was crushed into a pile of scrap metal by Duanmu Ci's Wood Release. Every scroll and document related to the ritual was reduced to ashes.
"It's completely clean." Minato looked over the ruined ritual site and let out a breath, though his eyes remained cold. Kirigakure's madness had thoroughly enraged him.
Duanmu Ci nodded. His Sage Jutsu perception swept across the entire cave, confirming that there were no survivors or omissions. "Let's go. Kakashi and Rin are still waiting at the stronghold."
The two swiftly left the cave and returned to Konoha's secret border outpost.
At the outpost, the medical shinobi had given Kakashi a more thorough examination and treatment. The wound on his face had recovered well thanks to Duanmu