Hiruzen Sarutobi's Right Eye Was Still Twitching

"The Three Hokage's designated sacrifices?"

Jiraiya frowned as he thought it over. He had not expected this. The people Shimura Danzō had sent were here to take those three away.

As he thought,

Jiraiya's expression changed. "No... doesn't Impure World Reincarnation only require ordinary people as sacrifices? Why would there be designated sacrifices?"

Huh?

He was somewhat stunned.

Putting everything else aside, this made little sense... And Shimura Danzō had actually known they were about to enter, even sending people to take those three away.

"Perhaps... they have some special method that can make the reincarnated dead stronger, or perhaps there's another reason!" Tsunade's tone turned grave. "But no matter the reason, those three are important to both Shimura Danzō and Sarutobi Hiruzen!"

Now,

Tsunade's mind was exceptionally sharp, racing at high speed!

"Then let's go after those three!" Jiraiya stepped forward, a small Rasengan appearing in his hand as he slammed it directly into the secret passage!

Boom...

In an instant,

The stone door collapsed, revealing a pitch-black tunnel within.

"No need to chase them. Danzo was outside when we came in. By now, they've probably moved those three somewhere else!" Tsunade decisively shook her head. "Let's get these people out first!"

If Sarutobi Hiruzen arrived, things would become troublesome.

Jiraiya nodded, then led the group outside, arranging them to move in order while escorting them. These civilians were the key to exposing Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Chunin Exams Venue

"This match goes to Xuanyu!"

Amid the crowd's exclamations, the Referee announced the victory.

Gaara, standing opposite Xuanyu, curled his lips into a smile. The two exchanged glances and smiled.

"Heh... it looks like you may have to walk the road ahead on your own?" Gaara looked at Xuanyu's next opponent. She seemed to be a ninja from the Land of