The Third Raikage still had no idea what had happened in the rear. He was personally leading the charge, hoping to lead Kumogakure's men to take the city before them with the same unstoppable momentum as they had shown a few days ago.
But unfortunately, they met fierce resistance.
A large number of Konoha Ninja had gathered in Hot Spring City, resisting with all their might under Jiraiya's command.
Compared to Lord Orochimaru, Jiraiya's command style was more readily accepted by them.
Lord Orochimaru was often unpredictable. Sometimes he would use you as bait; other times, an insignificant mission of yours might suddenly become an important one.
Although even when using bait, Lord Orochimaru's choices were quite reasonable, and he would leave contingencies for the team serving as bait, major casualties were generally rare. He would even apply for greater battle merit and more rewards for you after the mission.
But while Lord Orochimaru's command style was more reliable from the overall perspective, it still carried considerable risks for the squads beneath him.
Jiraiya was different.
He regarded every companion as extremely important. Moreover, he believed his command abilities could not compare to Lord Orochimaru's unconstrained ingenuity, so his style was one of steady, cautious advances—rather no achievement than any mistake.
This command style was not bad, but it was not suitable for every situation, especially during an offensive or when a deadlock needed to be broken.
But it was very suitable for defense.
The Third Raikage commanded his subordinates through several attacks of varying scale. In the end, he could not resist taking action himself, yet Jiraiya still held him back despite his injuries.
After a fierce battle from morning until dusk, Kumogakure finally withdrew.
Jiraiya panted heavily as he leaned against a corner, allowing the Medical Ninja before