At the same time, in an unnamed valley on the border between the Land of Earth and the Land of Lightning.
The Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki, hovered in midair, his small frame a stark contrast to the massive Iwagakure Forces behind him.
Two men stood beside him.
On his left was Roshi, the Four-Tails jinchūriki, dressed in dark red with a solemn expression; on his right was Han, the Five-Tails Jinchuriki, encased in thick Steam Armor with only a pair of sharp eyes exposed.
Behind the three, over a hundred elite Iwagakure ninja stood ready for battle, the atmosphere heavy with menace.
"Why aren't the Fourth Raikage and Killer B here yet?"
"They sent word a while ago that they would hand over all the remaining war reparations today."
Ōnoki frowned, his voice carrying obvious impatience.
Although the spies in Kumogakure had sent back confirmation, he had still brought both jinchūriki along to receive the payment in case Kumogakure tried anything.
Roshi said gravely, "Old man, could Kumogakure have gone back on its word?"
"They wouldn't dare!"
Ōnoki snorted. "The treaty was signed in black and white. If they dare go back on it, I wouldn't mind starting another war and wiping Kumogakure out completely!"
Despite his words, he felt a faint unease.
The Fourth Raikage A was fierce and domineering, hardly the type to submit meekly.
Over the years, apart from paying on time for the first few years, Kumogakure had always needed repeated reminders from Iwagakure before paying. Their lukewarm attitude made their resentment clear.
Just as Ōnoki was running out of patience, figures finally appeared at the other end of the valley.
The Fourth Raikage A led the way, striding forward with his lone arm behind his back.
Killer B and over twenty Kumogakure ninja followed him, each