Sage Mode

Upon hearing Aizen's words, the expressions of everyone present darkened slightly.

"Clack!"

At this moment, Jiraiya stepped forward, his appearance having undergone a distinct transformation.

Seeing Jiraiya's actions, Sakumo and the others were momentarily stunned, and upon seeing his face, they were inwardly shocked.

"Jiraiya, what is this!?"

Tsunade's pretty face shifted, her voice filled with surprise.

Sakumo and Orochimaru also stared at him intently, their eyes thoughtful.

Jiraiya's face was now covered in unsightly warts, and his eyes, once clearly defined in black and white, had transformed into cross-shaped pupils. If one looked closely, they would see that his entire face resembled the Toad Sage perched upon his shoulders.

Hearing Tsunade's words, Jiraiya's expression grew heavy as he spoke softly.

"I didn't want to reveal this state to you all, but it seems I have no choice but to use this technique now."

"Rest assured, in this Sage Mode, I am confident I can deal with Aizen."

With that, he walked slowly forward, his footsteps heavy, leaving the others with a tall, imposing back.

Hearing his words, the group was taken aback.

Sage... Sage Mode!?

Aizen, his body wrapped in a layer of flowing light, watched the approaching Jiraiya. His eyes narrowed slightly, a flash of intrigued amusement crossing his gaze as he spoke softly.

"So this is the technique you prepared, Jiraiya? Though it is somewhat ugly, it looks quite interesting."

Aizen's eyes were fixed on the strange energy faintly floating above Jiraiya's body; it gave him a very familiar feeling.

As expected... is this the power of a Sage...

This feeling, so similar to Reiryoku... If I could master it completely... perhaps the plan should be slightly modified...

Aizen thought silently to himself.

Hearing Aizen, Jiraiya did not speak; he glanced at Dai, giving him a signal.