Jonin

The tense standoff stretched on amid the thick scent of blood, seeming to last for a century, yet also no more than a few brief breaths.

Chiyo and Ebizo stared fixedly at Tianyi, who was shielded between Tsunade and Hatake Sakumo, their eyes tangled with killing intent and wariness.

But Rasa's injuries could not be delayed. This brat's Magnet Release naturally countered my puppets.

At that moment, Tsunade and Sakumo's bodies were taut, their chakra poised to strike.

"Konoha's luck won't stay this good forever." Chiyo's hoarse, dry voice broke the silence.

"That Hyuga brat... he won't live much longer!"

Tsunade snorted and wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth. "Old hag, anyone can talk tough.

"Your Hidden Sand Village, on the other hand, actually dared to unleash a double-edged sword like a Tailed Beast.

"Don't forget, the Nine-Tails is in our Leaf Village!"

Ebizo's face darkened. "Mito Uzumaki is advanced in years. Using the Nine-Tails' power again will only hasten her death.

"Unless Konoha faces a crisis that threatens the village's very survival, Mito Uzumaki cannot possibly act. And you're still alive."

He glanced at Rasa, whose aura was faint and whose legs had both been severed. He needed immediate treatment; otherwise, even if he was saved, he would be crippled.

Then he turned to Chiyo. "We're leaving!"

Chiyo understood that as well. She forcibly suppressed her surging killing intent and manipulated chakra threads to carefully lift Rasa.

Together with Ebizo, under the watchful protection of the remaining Sand ninja, she slowly retreated, their figures gradually melting into the night and dunes.

Tsunade and Hatake Sakumo had no intention of pursuing them either.

Their priority was to gather the surviving troops, stabilize the defensive line, and treat the wounded.

Sakumo gave Tsunade a slight nod. Understanding, she