Chapter 424: Finally Meeting Tsunade
With Daisuke's departure, skirmishes between the Iwa ninja, led by Ōnoki, and the Kumo forces erupted across the battlefield.
The results remained inconclusive, much to the Third Raikage's frustration. However, there was little he could do. The Land of Earth was Iwagakure's home turf, and the sheer number of traps alone made life miserable for the Kumo ninja.
Though Ōnoki's tactics had significantly slowed Kumo's advance, he knew it wouldn't change the final outcome of the war.
"Has Akatsukigakure still not won yet?"
After wiping out a few scattered enemy squads, the Third Raikage impatiently turned to Dodai. His hope was for Akatsuki and Kumo to completely surround the Iwa forces, making victory effortless.
"The Akatsuki side is facing a tough battle."
Dodai's tone remained steady as he relayed information from their allies. "Although they're in the lead under Nagato's command, they haven't managed to fully crush Iwa's forces."
"Tch, I expected too much from them."
The Third Raikage sighed, unimpressed. He had never thought highly of Nagato to begin with. Perhaps, deep down, he felt that a small village like Akatsukigakure had already exceeded expectations by accomplishing this much.
"Supplies are still flowing steadily," Dodai pointed out. "We have nothing to worry about."
He had hit the mark. As long as they played it safe, conquering the Land of Earth was only a matter of time. It was Ōnoki who had far more reason to be anxious.