The Tyrannical Shukaku

On the field, every ninja stood ready, their faces etched with solemn expressions.

Judging by their forehead protectors, they belonged to the Rock Ninja.

The old man surrounded by them, however, seemed indifferent to this, his heavy gaze fixed solely on the short, elderly man standing outside the perimeter.

"Ōnoki, the actions of the Rock Ninja have disrupted the peace of the Ninja World regardless of the circumstances... Do you truly not intend to stop?"

The old man spoke slowly, his face heavy with concern.

Hearing this, the short old man standing outside the circle flashed a look of disdain in his eyes, which were as sharp as a hawk's, and said in a deep voice.

"Sarutobi, to speak such high-sounding words while serving as Hokage—do you still believe in your heart that Konoha remains the ultimate choice for maintaining peace in the Ninja World?"

"This is no longer the era of the First Hokage's reign. The landscape of the Ninja World has undergone a complete transformation; you should look toward the future!"

To Ōnoki's slightly sarcastic remarks, Sarutobi showed no sign of anger, though the sorrow between his brows deepened slightly. He replied in a heavy tone.

"So, you are determined to persist in your delusion..."

Ōnoki's eyes sharpened as he retorted.

"Persist in my delusion!?"

"Sarutobi, isn't it Konoha that has become too arrogant? This Ninja World requires change. The once-mighty Konoha has become an obstacle to the development of the Ninja World; it is time for it to be extinguished this very day!"

Hearing the hostility toward Konoha in Ōnoki's words, Sarutobi knew that he would likely be unable to stop Ōnoki from leading the Rock Ninja to attack Konoha today, no matter what.

At this thought, his eyes narrowed slightly, and he said in a low