However, a few minutes later, the results they reported were unexpected.
"Lord Raikage, up ahead... apart from that powerful presence, we detected no large-scale chakra signatures from any other ninja, nor any obvious energy fluctuations from traps."
"Only one person?"
The Third Raikage's brows knitted tightly. "Let's go take a look!"
He hesitated no longer and charged ahead of the others toward the source of that presence.
Soon, the Kumogakure party arrived at the seaside cliffs.
At the cliff's edge stood a figure with his back to them, gazing out at the boundless sea.
He wore a simple, close-fitting black outfit, his posture straight and tall, his short white hair stirring gently in the sea breeze.
Seemingly sensing their arrival, the man slowly turned around.
It was Lin Ze!
His face was more mature and resolute than during the Third Shinobi World War, his eyes calm, as though he had long been waiting.
"Don't bother searching, Third Raikage."
"I'm the only one here."
The Third Raikage kept his gaze locked on Lin Ze. After confirming that there truly were no enemies hiding nearby, a surge of fury at being underestimated welled up within him.
"Arrogant brat!"
The Third Raikage's voice thundered. "You think you alone can stop us?"
Killer B and Yugito stepped forward on either side, beginning to form a pincer formation as their enormous tailed beast chakra began to churn restlessly.
The thirty-six ANBU behind them instantly scattered as well, taking advantageous positions and fixing their killing intent on Lin Ze.
Facing a lineup that would make any Kage-level fighter pale, Lin Ze merely smiled faintly.
"Why not try and find out whether I can?"
His gaze swept over the Third Raikage, Killer B, and Yugito before returning to the Third Raikage. His eyes abruptly sharpened, and an