Kage-Level Experts as Vanguard

Within the Land of Stone, inside a military tent!

Kitsuchi found it somewhat strange as he looked at Roshi, whose face was filled with fear, but he did not dwell on it. He simply assumed that Roshi's condition had been affected by his excessive use of the Four-Tails' power yesterday.

Meanwhile, Deidara sat quietly inside the tent. Having returned to the Iwagakure ranks, he did not feel the slightest discomfort.

After all, Iwagakure was where he had grown up. Whether it was Kitsuchi before him or that old man Ōnoki, he shared deep bonds with both of them.

Thus, facing Konoha's invasion this time, Deidara felt immensely proud that he could contribute his own share.

Old man, this should make up for it, right?

Deidara thought to himself.

Meanwhile, Roshi, seated beside Deidara, wore a conflicted expression. He was considering whether he should report his suspicions about the Akatsuki to the Third Tsuchikage.

Although Ōnoki was unlikely to believe him, after careful consideration, Roshi still decided to report it. After all, the fate of all Iwagakure rested in the hands of Ōnoki, the Tsuchikage.

Only his decisions could truly affect Iwagakure's fate.

With that thought, Roshi rose and walked out of the tent. After writing his thoughts onto a scroll, he sent someone to swiftly deliver it to the Third Tsuchikage in Iwagakure.

"Sigh!"

Having done all that, Roshi let out a sigh before returning to the tent. His emotions had clearly settled, and determination once again appeared on his face.

As far as Roshi was concerned, he had done everything he could. He could only do his best and leave the rest to fate.

As for how far Iwagakure could ultimately go, that was not something he alone could decide. After all, within Iwagakure, he was merely treated as