Raccoon Dog vs. Bear (1)

As Aizen's voice faded, the thick white smoke on the field slowly dissipated, revealing a massive silhouette standing tall behind him.

On the devastated ground, beneath the cover of night, a gargantuan brown bear crouched, looking around with a dazed expression.

It pressed its thick paws against the earth, shaking its head slightly as if scanning its surroundings, while a tuft of white fur on its chest made it look rather unique.

Upon spotting Aizen standing before it, its bright, beastly pupils immediately shimmered with excitement.

"ROAR!!"

It suddenly opened its ferocious maw and let out a thunderous roar, the sound laced with intense exhilaration.

The deep, resonant bellow echoed across the land, audible even from a great distance; the Konoha ninja nearby were forced to cover their ears, their brows furrowing tightly.

Through their narrowed eyes, they watched as the massive bear slowly lowered its head toward Aizen, who stood silently before it.

The bear's face, which had appeared so menacing, now wore an incredibly human-like, goofy expression, much like a puppy greeting its master with enthusiasm.

Aizen wore a faint smile; he reached out, pressed a hand against the bear's black nose, and said softly.

"Kumamoto, don't get too excited. Your opponent is that fellow right there."

Hearing Aizen's words, Kumamoto lifted its head slightly to survey the situation on the field.

Before them stood Shukaku, looking furious, along with Jiraiya, Sakumo, and their group, all divided into three distinct factions like a triangle of opposition.

When it saw Shukaku, who was equally immense, a burning light flashed in Kumamoto's beastly eyes.

Is that the fellow Lord Aizen was talking about? Although Mother told me not to fight others lightly...

But if it is Lord Aizen's command... surely Mother would agree...

At this thought, Kumamoto's long mouth curled