Aizen's Strike, The Might of a Single Blade, Deeply Hidden

Aizen's words did not put Ōnoki at ease. On the contrary, everyone present was slightly startled upon hearing them, and their expressions turned somewhat grim.

Even Aizen's subordinates had mastered space-time ninjutsu!?

This... was far too powerful!

Ōnoki's expression turned solemn as he said in a deep voice.

"Is that so... It seems the current situation was already within your expectations!"

Hearing Ōnoki's words, Aizen revealed a faint smile. A glint flickered in his deep eyes as he said softly.

"Don't worry, Ōnoki. Our agreement can still continue."

"However, some of its terms may need to be altered."

"I can continue helping you destroy Konoha, but I believe Iwagakure may be preserved in the coming purge—if you know what's good for you."

At Aizen's words, Ōnoki's face suddenly turned extremely grim.

Aizen's meaning was clear: in this war, Iwagakure had to choose to submit to him. It would no longer be a cooperative relationship between equals as it had initially been.

His expression was terrible, yet he was wary of Aizen's strength and found it difficult to make a decision.

Without a doubt, as the Tsuchikage, he should firmly reject Aizen's proposal. After all, Iwagakure had its own plans in place and was not without the strength to fight.

However, after witnessing that even people within Las Noches had mastered space-time ninjutsu, he began to doubt whether doing so would drag Iwagakure into the abyss.

Just as he was wavering, a calm shout suddenly rang out from afar.

"Lord Tsuchikage, perhaps we can join forces!"

As those words fell upon the battlefield, they were like a stone dropped into a still lake, instantly stirring countless ripples.

"What's going on? Has this guy gone crazy? How could we of Iwagakure possibly join forces with Konoha!"

"This guy is far too fanciful.