Ch-95 Creatures = Toads.

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Tsunade and Jiraiya arrived at the Mitokado clan compound, only to find two dusty lumps where Homura and Koharu were presumed to have perished.

"So, you're suggesting these two dusty lumps are the remains of Homura and Koharu?" Tsunade inquired.

"Yes, and what's even more puzzling is the presence of a suppression mark around their bodies, indicating they were subjected to a potent aura or gravitational force, which aligns with Jiryoku's style. But he's known as a sword user, and this method is completely different," explained Yamato.

"I see, perhaps he's altered his fighting technique during his three years of training. We haven't witnessed his combat skills during this time, and aside from him, no one seems to have any motive to kill these two. Besides, he was also in Konoha," added Jiraiya.

"We'll uncover his new fighting methods once 'Team Kakashi' arrives. For now, let's search for Jiryoku within Konoha," Tsunade suggested.

"I've already dispatched Anbu teams to locate Jiryoku," Yamato reported.

"Good," Tsunade nodded in agreement.

At that very moment, an Anbu ninja swiftly arrived at the scene, dropping to his knees in front of Tsunade. With utmost respect, he addressed Tsunade, "Hokage-Sama, we have just spotted Jiryoku at the Hyuga clan graveyard, standing before his parents' resting places."

Tsunade acknowledged the report with a decisive nod. Her eyes were focused, and her determination clear as she replied, "Then what are we waiting for? Let's go." Without hesitation, she darted off, heading in the direction of the Hyuga clan grounds.

Meanwhile, within the Hyuga Clan graveyard, Hiashi had been preparing to depart when he sensed a group of individuals approaching. Reacting swiftly, he activated his Byakugan, allowing him to see Tsunade, Jiraiya, and the Anbu ninjas steadily drawing closer. Hiashi halted in his tracks, waiting patiently for their arrival.

As Tsunade and Jiraiya reached Hiashi, the Hokage wasted no time in getting to the point. She inquired, "Where is Jiryoku? Did you witness him departing from this place?"

With a solemn expression, Hiashi replied, "He came here to pay his respects at his parents' graves and left just a few minutes ago."

Tsunade turned her attention to Yamato and issued a directive, her voice firm and resolute. "Yamato, go search for him and determine whether he is still within Konoha or has left the village."

Yamato nodded and departed alongside the Anbu ninjas, vanishing into the shadows with a series of swift movements, leaving behind only the faint sound of rustling leaves.

Returning her focus to Hiashi, Tsunade faced him directly and inquired, her eyes probing for more information. "Did Jiryoku reveal anything of significance during your conversation?"

Hiashi, with a solemn expression, recounted the details of his encounter with Jiryoku. "Yes, when I confronted him about his presence in Konoha, I initially believed he had come to pay his respects to his deceased parents. However, as our conversation progressed, he disclosed that he had fulfilled his revenge. That's when I suspected he might have already eliminated Elder Koharu and Elder Homura. I was in the process of confirming my suspicions when you arrived."

Curiosity flickered in Hiashi's eyes as he sought more information. "By the way, what transpired to raise the alarm for you, Hokage-Sama, and the other Anbu ninjas?"

"In light of all the evidence, it's highly likely that Jiryoku has indeed taken the lives of Koharu and Homura," Tsunade remarked with a heavy sigh.

Regret weighed on Tsunade's words as she continued, "Amidst the chaos of the Kazekage's capture by the Akatsuki, I completely overlooked the looming threat of Jiryoku's revenge against Koharu and Homura. I should have been more vigilant upon his return to Konoha."

Jiraiya offered a reassuring perspective, his voice filled with understanding. "There's no need for self-blame, Tsunade. You couldn't have foreseen this, and there's no point in dwelling on it now. What's evident is that his power has grown substantially, possibly even surpassing his strength from three years ago. Especially now that he's mastered 'Sage Mode' to perfection, his abilities are beyond our imagination."

Curiosity gripped Jiraiya, and he inquired further, "Did he say anything else to you before departing?"

Tsunade took a moment to recall and then responded, "Yes, as he left, he mentioned, 'I have promises to fulfill to certain individuals and creatures.'"

Upon hearing this, Jiraiya's expression shifted to one of solemn concern, and he probed, "Are you absolutely certain he used those words?"

Tsunade affirmed, puzzled by Jiraiya's reaction. "Without a doubt. Why the concern?"

Jiraiya's voice grew grave as he elaborated, "Aren't you forgetting something? When I managed to save Koharu and Homura, Jiryoku issued a warning to the 'Two Great Sage Toads.' He threatened to annihilate their 'Mount Myōboku' and end my life if they didn't return Koharu and Homura to him. While he promised not to kill me after your intervention, he never vowed to forsake his commitments to the 'Two Great Sage Toads.'"

Jiraiya continued, his tone heavy with implications, "In the statement he made to you, he specifically mentioned 'creatures,' and in this context, 'creatures' most likely refers to the toads."

Tsunade's concern mirrored Jiraiya's as she questioned, "So, what's your plan now?" The alliance with Mount Myōboku held significant importance for Konoha, and the situation had grown increasingly complex.

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