The instant he saw Utakata, the Fourth Mizukage's pupils contracted to pinpoints, and he stared grimly at the two figures ahead.
Hiruko and Shinnō, dressed in Red Cloud Robes, were clearly not the Akatsuki members who had invaded Kirigakure last time.
But the Fourth Mizukage did not let his guard down. According to intelligence from their allies, these two Akatsuki members had taken part in the battle over the One-Tail, Shukaku, and driven back Sunagakure's forces.
Although Sunagakure ranked last among the Five Great Shinobi Villages, Kirigakure was hardly in much better shape.
Now, the Jinchūriki Utakata had been taken, right before his eyes.
Judging by the tailed beast aura emanating from Utakata, he had definitely undergone Tailed Beast Transformation. In that state, Utakata ranked among Kirigakure's strongest fighters, yet he had been defeated without the Fourth Mizukage even noticing and fallen into Akatsuki's hands.
After comparing the numbers on both sides, the Fourth Mizukage gradually manifested a Tailed Beast Cloak.
Watching the Fourth Mizukage's aura grow stronger, Hiruko stepped forward and stripped off his shirt, exposing muscles as hard as steel. Having familiarized himself with his multiple kekkei genkai, he believed he had already reached the level of the Five Kage.
Just moments ago, he had defeated the transformed Utakata single-handedly.
Although he had suffered considerable injuries himself, his companion was Shinnō, a master of advanced Medical Ninjutsu.
Shinnō removed his glasses and slowly approached the Kirigakure ANBU. He gave Hozuki Mangetsu and Zabuza a friendly smile, then activated the Eight Gates Released Formation and charged.
Hozuki Mangetsu frowned and vanished from his spot with Hiramekarei in hand. After a moment's hesitation, Zabuza rushed forward as well.
As time passed, the Fourth Mizukage drew further upon the Three-Tails' chakra. Three tails appeared behind him, yet he retained his reason.