Looking down at the countless toads of all sizes, colors, and appearances, Ronglin laughed heartily. At the forefront stood the three Gama Bunta brothers, while their parents remained off to one side.
What surprised Ronglin even more was that there were not only toads, but people as well!!!
"Humph!!"
As the Boss, Bunta merely snorted and said nothing. At a time like this, any words were superfluous. There was only battle—even if the outcome was a crushing defeat.
Too lazy to look at Bunta, Ronglin fixed his gaze on Jiraiya among the toads and sighed.
"This is the second time, isn't it? You're still going against me? All for these toads?"
Last time, Ronglin had not gone too far, since Jiraiya was still a member of Konoha. Yet this time, the man had once again placed himself on Ronglin's opposing side.
"That's rather disappointing. Or did you think I'd spare you out of old friendship?"
"No."
Jiraiya shook his head and replied with a stern expression.
"I know you won't show mercy even if there is old friendship between us. It's just that we stand on different sides. I have my reasons for doing what I must do. I only hope you won't drag anyone else into this. They're innocent."
It was enough for him to step forward himself. Jiraiya did not want Minato to be implicated in this matter.
Jiraiya shared a deep bond with the toads of Mount Myōboku. Frankly speaking, if not for these toads, Jiraiya would have died long ago. They had not only saved him, but taught him Sage Mode, even allowing Bunta to become his Summoned Beast and helping him increase his combat strength and grow rapidly.
No matter what, Jiraiya would not abandon these toads, even though he truly did not want to