Leader of the Espada

Upon hearing Captain Dajiu's words, the Konoha ninja around him were all stunned, asking in disbelief.

"Captain Dajiu, what are you saying!? Wood Release!?"

Captain Dajiu kept his eyes fixed on the magnificent scene before him, a look of reverence appearing on his face as he spoke slowly.

"Yes... this is the legendary Wood Release ninjutsu that only the First Hokage could unleash!"

As his words fell, the faces of the Konoha group changed instantly. They whipped their heads toward the battlefield, unable to believe it.

"No... that's impossible. Didn't you say that only the First Hokage could use Wood Release!"

"If this is Wood Release, then this guy in front of us... how could this be!?"

To this, Dajiu maintained his reverent expression and said softly.

"Although I don't know who he is to the First Hokage, there is no doubt that they must share a close relationship that we are unaware of."

"If you don't believe me, look closely at his face. You should all have that same feeling."

Hearing Captain Dajiu's words, the group's urge to deny it was stifled. They couldn't help but look on with solemn expressions, carefully observing Nawaki, who stood imposingly atop the giant tree, buffeted by the wind.

"Where... where have I seen him before... could it be!!"

Shenmei frowned tightly, muttering to herself. Suddenly, her eyes widened, and she exclaimed.

"Did you remember, Shenmei? Where have you seen this guy?" a nearby ninja asked hurriedly.

Shenmei's breathing grew heavy. With trembling pupils, she stared at Nawaki high above and said in a shaky voice.

"The Hokage Rock in the village... he looks exactly like the First Hokage on the rock face!"

Hearing her words, the others were stunned, then one after another, they revealed expressions of utter shock.

Dajiu nodded gently;