As the new coffins opened, the White Zetsu on the coast charged at the same time.
Mu's Dust Release swept across the ground ahead, forcing the Mixed Formation to split to either side. Neji led his Byakugan squad into the clearing, every step keeping clear of the edge of the Dust Release.
"Left shoulder!"
Neji raised his hand.
Kumogakure Lightning Release struck from the flank, interrupting Mu's hand seals at just the right moment. An Iwagakure earth wall rose immediately afterward, cutting off his retreat.
Mu raised his hand and shattered the earth wall.
"You've learned to work together?"
Ishikawa stood behind the wall.
"The living have to learn."
"I once taught you Earth Release."
"The first thing you taught us was to recognize the enemy."
Mu's voice sank.
"You consider me an enemy?"
Neji stared at the Black Receiver in his chest.
"You can prove that no one is controlling you."
"I have no need to prove myself to you."
"Then keep taking our attacks."
Neji pressed his palms together, and the Hyuga ninja behind him scattered at once. Mu fired his Dust Release again, but it struck only empty ground.
Just as he was about to turn, a sand net rose from underground and wound around his legs. Gaara stood in the distance, slowly closing his hand.
"Sealing Sand Net, tighten."
Sand pressed into Mu's joints, exposing the Black Runes.
Once the Iwagakure ninja saw the runes, their last trace of hesitation vanished.
"That isn't the Second Tsuchikage's technique."
"Someone is using a former Kage's body as a weapon."
"Keep him contained!"
Ishikawa charged first, thrusting an Earth Spear toward Mu's chest. Mu raised his hand to block, but the sand net held his body back. Lightning flashed through from both sides, striking his shoulders, and the Black