Kitsuchi's return was like a shot of adrenaline for the dying Iwagakure.
Their flagging morale instantly soared. After a brief rest and deployment, the Iwagakure Army marched out again, bearing down aggressively on the Konoha Defense Line.
This time, unlike any before, a mountain-heavy pressure loomed over the Iwagakure Forces.
For the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki of Both Scales, had come to the front in person!
When the news reached the Konoha Camp, Jiraiya's expression instantly grew much graver.
Inside the tent, he spoke somberly to the several jōnin captains before him and Lin Ze, who wore the Azure Dragon Mask:
"This is trouble. That old fellow Ōnoki actually came himself. Looks like getting Kitsuchi back freed him of his worries. He's getting serious now."
One jōnin could not help speaking up:
"Lord Jiraiya, Ōnoki's Dust Release..."
His tone carried an unmistakable dread. The power of the kekkei tōta, Dust Release, struck terror throughout the Shinobi World. It was a terrifying power that could truly break matter down into atoms.
Jiraiya nodded, his expression serious:
"I know. Dust Release is certainly troublesome, but it's not impossible to counter. What matters is that we withstand this wave of pressure. According to our intelligence, Iwagakure seems to be using two jinchūriki to barely hold on against Kumogakure. That's what freed Ōnoki up to come here."
He looked around at everyone, his gaze finally settling on Lin Ze:
"Everyone, this will be a tough battle! Hold your positions and adapt as needed!"
Across the vast battlefield, the ninja of both sides stood in distinct formations.
At the front of the Konoha Camp, Jiraiya stood with a grave expression.
Opposite him, a small figure hovered above the Iwagakure Camp. It was the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki.
Though small in stature, the presence he exuded was