Aizen and his group had left, and everyone present could only watch helplessly.
After all, they knew that the few of them alone couldn't stop Aizen from leaving.
The sound of explosions continued in the distance, and panicked cries gradually reached them.
Jiraiya stepped behind Tsunade, his expression complicated. He spoke softly.
"Come on, Tsunade. The village needs us now... No matter what, the fact that Nawaki is still alive is a good thing, isn't it..."
At his words, Tsunade's shoulders trembled slightly. Her voice was a little hoarse.
"You're right, Jiraiya."
She slowly straightened and turned around. The tears on her cheeks had yet to dry, but her eyes were bright and resolute. She spoke firmly.
"No matter what, Nawaki is still alive... Though I don't know why he's following that man and doing these things to destroy Konoha..."
"But didn't he say it himself? As long as I grow stronger, I can take Nawaki back from him!"
As she spoke, a flame of hatred flickered in her eyes.
Looking at Tsunade now, Jiraiya felt a faint unease, but he said nothing.
At least this Tsunade was better than the dejected, grief-stricken Tsunade from before, wasn't she...
"Haah... haah..."
A gentle breeze carrying smoke and dust blew past. Tsunade lifted her head slightly, and a few strands of golden hair swayed in the wind.
She looked toward the distant fires, her brown eyes heavy with concern. Then she glanced at the others behind her and shouted, "Jiraiya, Minato, Kushina, come with me to fight off the enemy. Whatever Aizen's plans may be, we must protect this village tonight. We can't let him succeed!"
Jiraiya's expression froze at her words. Then he grinned and spoke firmly.
"Now that's the Tsunade I know."
"Come on, Minato, Kushina. The real battle is