Ōnoki

Iwagakure was unlike the moisture-filled Kirigakure. The air here was extremely dry, and its location was far more enclosed, surrounded by mountains.

Gigue and the other two appeared directly above the center of Iwagakure, looking down at the bunker-like houses below. Gigue smiled and said,

"As expected of Iwagakure, renowned for its defenses. These buildings look quite sturdy."

Lily said dismissively,

"They're still just as fragile. Why not just flatten this place? That Jinchuriki would definitely come out on his own then."

"Meaningless destruction should be kept to a minimum. We only came here for the Five-Tails Jinchuriki. Kaguya, you should be able to sense his presence already, right?"

Kaguya nodded respectfully and pointed to a tall building below as she said softly,

"Saint Gigue, he is currently in that tallest building."

Gigue looked in the direction Kaguya indicated. At the top of that building hung a sign bearing the character for "Earth." It was the Tsuchikage Building, where the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki, resided.

It seemed a fight was unavoidable today. Gigue knew Ōnoki's personality well enough. He was no different from a rock—hard and stubborn. There was no way he would obediently hand over the Five-Tails like Mei Terumi had.

After all, Ōnoki had served as Tsuchikage longer than anyone else, and Iwagakure was currently at the height of its prosperity. It was only natural for him to be more forceful.

Inside the Tsuchikage Building,

The Five-Tails Jinchuriki, Han, was reporting on the mission he had just completed flawlessly. After listening, Ōnoki nodded in satisfaction and said to Kurotsuchi, who stood nearby,

"You should become an outstanding ninja like Han in the future."

Kurotsuchi curled her lips and said helplessly,

"I know, I know. Honestly, old people just love to nag. No wonder Brother Deidara wanted to—"

"Watch your