Chapter 904: The True Ice Age! (Combined Chapter)
Cold.
Heaven and Earth were a frosty white, with unimaginable low temperatures.
Almost instantly, all the Birds, Beasts, Insects, and Fish within a radius of nearly ten kilometers were frozen to death.
The warm Sea Breeze blowing from the more distant end,
As it swept over the frozen, surging Sea Waves,
Quickly transformed into a howling Cold Wind.
It surged past Kuzan and Hashirama Senju.
Unbeknownst to anyone,
The two no longer spoke.
"Wood Release: Adamantine Attacking Wood!"
Hashirama Senju clasped his hands together in front of his Chest.
The next moment,
With the surging of purple Chakra,
Four thick, long Tree Trunks wrapped in rough bark, with Sharpness tips, broke through the hard Frozen Earth with some difficulty.
But just as they were exposed to the Air and swept towards Kuzan,
White Frost visibly condensed on the surface of the bark.
They finally stopped in Mid-air, about twenty meters away from Kuzan, turning into four Ice Pillars.
Hashirama Senju frowned tightly, then lowered his head for a quick glance, noticing that his feet were also showing Frost, though it wasn't forming as quickly.
"Has the Temperature dropped to this extent? And it seems to be still falling."
Hashirama Senju knew he had to finish the Combat quickly, otherwise, the longer it dragged on, the more disadvantageous it would be for him.
He somewhat understood why the World Government had sent this Admiral Aokiji.
[Swish swish swish!]
Just then, twelve Ice Spears flashing with Cold Light pierced through the Air.
Hashirama Senju immediately shook off the Frost on his feet and dodged the first three with Agility/Dexterity movements.
But the subsequent Ice Spears became increasingly difficult for him to avoid.
By the tenth one, he was surprised to find that he had nowhere left to dodge.
The last three Ice Spears had completely sealed off any Position he could evade to.
"Hah!"
Since that was the case, Hashirama Senju simply stopped dodging.
He immediately gathered Chakra into his Fists and swung them forward forcefully, forming a surging Fist Wind that successively shattered the three Ice Spears coming at him.
But Hashirama Senju's Expression became even more grim.
Because Kuzan, radiating Cold Air all over, had appeared behind him at some point, and the Ice Blade in his hand had already transformed into Blade Light and slashed out.
The next second,
With a 'ba' sound, Hashirama Senju's Body was cut in two by the blade, with large patches of Frost spreading from the severed parts.
However, Kuzan didn't even look at this Remains.
His indifferent eyes merely glanced towards the ten o'clock Direction.
There, Hashirama Senju, who had suddenly appeared, was surrounded by seven or eight Ice Spikes that rose from the ground.
Meanwhile, the Remains in front of Kuzan turned into two Frozen Logs.
At the same time,
Hashirama Senju on the other side was also caught off guard and pierced in various parts of his Body by those Ice Spikes.
But at this moment,
Kuzan's Body instantly rioted, and the Ice Blade in his hand swung towards the three o'clock Direction on the other side.
At that Position, another Hashirama Senju appeared again.
"Hah!"
With no way to avoid it,
The 'Strength Fist' swung with full force collided heavily with the Flying Slash Attack carrying surging Cold Air.
Purple Energy Radiance and blue-tinged white Blade Light clashed In the Court.
While stirring up fierce cold Air Currents, it also instantly shattered and exploded large areas of Frozen Earth within a radius of nearly half a kilometer.
And the 'Hashirama Senju' from the ten o'clock Direction was torn into pieces under the Ice Spikes, becoming a lifelike Wood Golem.
[Swish!]
At this point, Hashirama Senju used the force of the Explosion to retreat nearly a hundred meters.
"Hoo... What a formidable Opponent..."
Hashirama Senju endured the discomfort of Breathing the Low Temperature Cold Air while looking at the Frozen cut on his Right Hand.
Although he wasn't bleeding because he was in the Impure World Reincarnation State,
He also noticed that the damaged area showed no signs of Recovery.
Is it because of this Ice?
Hashirama Senju immediately unleashed Chakra in his hand to shatter it.
But even without the Obstruction of Frost,
The Rebirth effect of Impure World Reincarnation had not begun to take effect.
Why?
"Ara la la~ It seems you not only possess Armament Haki, but your Observation Haki has also awakened."
"It's just that with your current Haki Level, it doesn't mean much in a Combat of this Rank."
Kuzan walked in front of Hashirama Senju again and said calmly.
He wasn't surprised that the Opponent had awakened Observation Haki.
Observation Haki relies on Talent in the Mental Aspect.
Experts like Hashirama Senju, who can naturally release Aura and Sense Aura,
Can easily gain initial mastery after coming into contact with Haki.
But it's only initial mastery.
Although Hashirama Senju's vast Aura, invincible in the Ninja World,
Made his Haki Strength sufficient to surpass most people who had just awakened Haki, and even many ordinary people who had practiced Haki for over ten years, right from the start.
That is, the Combat Power level of Colonel, Senior Colonel, Commodore, and Rear Admiral.
There's no helping it.
This is the cruel Reality.
Most people's lifelong Effort might just be a starting point for some.
They surpass all your Effort as soon as they start.
There's simply no Principle to discuss.
But unfortunately,
The Opponents Hashirama Senju faced were either Aramaki or Kuzan before him.
Therefore, his Haki appeared very fragile.
Aside from allowing him to touch the Main Body of a Logia User even without entering Sage Mode,
Saying it's adding flowers to brocade would be an overstatement.
At most, it only improved his Sensory Ability and Body Protection Ability to a certain extent.
But these are only effective against Combat Power below Vice Admiral.
In front of Kuzan, they are basically useless.
Observation Haki being completely suppressed goes without saying.
As for Armament Haki,
Even if you use Hardening, you can't block any attack at all.
So the Strength Hashirama Senju could rely on,
Was actually the Abilities he had always possessed.
However...
The Trees created by Wood Release are difficult to be effective against Kuzan's Ice-Ice Fruit.
The Recovery effect of Impure World Reincarnation is also being Countered.
In terms of Perception and Martial Arts, he is completely at a Disadvantage.
Hashirama Senju felt an unprecedented immense Pressure.
He could feel that Kuzan's Strength was not only significantly stronger than Aramaki's, but his Ability also Countered his own.
"Since that's the case, I can only take a Gambling..."
Hashirama Senju felt the increasingly cold Temperature and resolutely made his decision.
"Sage Mode!"
As he formed the Snake Seal with his hands in front of him again,
Green eyeshadow Markings instantly appeared on his face.
At the same time,
The Chakra within his Body, filled with Yang Release nature,
Was rapidly transforming into the more advanced Sage Mode Chakra.
Kuzan did not stop him.
He merely watched Hashirama Senju with great interest.
"As expected, he's absorbing Natural Energy into his Body. Interesting~"
Just now,
He sensed the Ice Attribute Natural Energy around Hashirama Senju suddenly surge into his Body.
However, according to the Intelligence on Sage Jutsu provided by the World Government,
The Natural Energy Hashirama Senju absorbed shouldn't be only Ice Attribute.
The Sage Jutsu of this 'Ninja World',
Seems unlike the Super Dangerous Beasts of the Imperial Arms World, which are subdivided into different Attributes.
Such a Simple and Crude method increases the practitioner's Risk several times over.
But it also lowers the threshold for Cultivation.
Basically, as long as the Method is proper,
All Ninja can attempt to sense and absorb Natural Energy.
Of course,
Huge risks are bound to lead to many Sacrifices.
And the Method he obtained for sensing and absorbing Ice Attribute Natural Energy by drinking 'Crimson Lotus Blood', relying on the Physique advantage brought by the Logia System Ice-Ice Fruit,
Cannot be Popularization before the Ice-Ice Fruit can be Mass Production or an Ice Attribute Physique can be obtained through other means.
"Sage Art: Wood Release: Wood Golem Technique!"
With a shout from Hashirama Senju, the surrounding Frozen Beach trembled again.
[Bang bang bang]
This time,
Thick, long Trees cleanly and smoothly broke through the Frozen Earth and Ice Layer.
Below him, they quickly gathered to form a giant Wood Golem that rose section by section.
However, the appearance of this Wood Golem was no longer the previous 'big nose' type. Instead, it was shaped based on his own template.
It was like a super large Wood Clone!
It seems Senju Tobirama's casual remark before,
Still hit Hashirama Senju's Heart...
But he wasn't in the Mood to think about such insignificant Matters right now.
"Good, the Wood Golem created with Sage Mode Chakra, plus the Armament Haki on the surface, can indeed resist the invasion of Low Temperature!"
Hashirama Senju looked down joyfully at the very, very, very good-looking giant Wood Golem.
Even he himself no longer felt much Coldness due to the Sage Mode Chakra within his Body.
But he couldn't waste Time now.
Even for him, Sage Mode only lasts about thirty minutes at most.
It could be said that every minute and every second was incredibly precious.
Hashirama Senju stood on the head of the Wood Golem.
His eyes were fixed on Kuzan in the distance, who was indifferent and silently watching him perform the jutsu.
Knowing he was being underestimated, he gritted his teeth and shouted again.
"Sage Art: Wood Release: True Several Thousand Hands!"
Hashirama Senju didn't hesitate at all and immediately used his full Strength.
He had to decide the Victory or Defeat within thirty minutes.
[Boom boom boom boom boom!]
On the Frozen seaside Earth, giant Trees continuously broke through the ground.
The Momentum was so immense that it resounded throughout the entire Sky.
Truly earth-shattering.
Facing such a Spectacular scene, Kuzan merely retreated quickly in response.
At the same time, with a surprised Expression, he appreciated the 'Thousand-Handed Kannon' that was quickly taking shape before his eyes.
Whether it was its Volume comparable to a Mountain Peak or its exquisite carving craftsmanship, it was beautiful and magnificent in his eyes.
Not to mention the overwhelming Aura like mountains and seas on this 'Thousand-Handed Kannon'.
It made Kuzan click his tongue in wonder from the bottom of his Heart.
At the same time, he sighed with emotion in his Heart.
If it weren't for the Great Power of the 'Star Gate' for such an Opponent,
They would never have been able to come into contact with them in this Life.
Lord Imu, what a remarkable existence...
"Ara la la~ Then I'll get serious too~"
"Ice Age!"
As the Coat of Justice behind him fluttered in the Cold Wind,
The power of the Ice-Ice Fruit transformed into an Invisible Fluctuation, erupting from Kuzan's tall Body.
In an instant,
Amidst the 'rumbling' Loud Noise,
Many times stronger than before,
Earth shaking and mountains swaying, Sea of Trees shattering.
These descriptions were not exaggerated for the terrifying Tremor that appeared.
"This is..."
Hashirama Senju, standing on the 'Thousand-Handed Kannon' which was seven to eight hundred meters tall, looked at the vast Frozen Sea of Trees around him, and the Frozen Great Sea as far as the eye could see, with giant icebergs rising from the ground one after another, quickly forming a continuous white Mountain Range. Subconsciously, his Eyes were already wide open.
But this wasn't the end.
The next second, Hashirama Senju suddenly looked up.
He was astonished to find that the previously clear azure Sky had been shrouded by thick Dark Clouds.
At the same time, large patches of goose feather snow, Accompanied By strangely generated strong winds, gradually formed an overwhelming Super Large Blizzard.
At this moment, in this Situation,
It was as if a 'Thousand-Handed Kannon' reaching Heaven and Earth was sitting cross-legged among icebergs, under Black Clouds, with terrifying Wind and Snow howling and swirling around it.
This was Kuzan's current 'Ice Age'!
The previous super large range Ice Ability.
For him, it was no longer a Technique worth naming.
And the current one directly Mobilizes the Ice Attribute Natural Energy in the Air, combined with the Awakening of the Ice-Ice Fruit, to thoroughly turn the area within range into a permanent 'forbidden zone of Life'.
If Kuzan hadn't had Mercy in his Heart and strictly controlled the range of his Ability,
Now the entire Land of Fire, and even the neighboring Country of Rivers, would return to the true Ice Age!
But even so,
The unimaginably Low Temperature and the Blizzard on a Scale far exceeding ordinary Natural Disasters,
Had already affected the Entity temperature of the Ninja World.
The Bay sandwiched between the Land of Wind, Country of Rivers, Land of Fire, and Land of Tea.
At this moment, it had long since become a solid Icy Ground.
Countless Marine Creatures were frozen to death within it.
Some fishermen living on the west side of the seaside in the Land of Tea,
Were staring dumbfounded as the Great Sea turned from Seawater into an Ice Layer in the blink of an eye.
Their fishing Ship and the fishing Net they had thrown down were also Frozen solid.
Fortunately, it looked like they could still walk back...
It was just that the fishermen's thin Clothing made them shiver in the Cold Wind...
On the other side,
Hashirama Senju's Expression was pale as he watched the 'Wood Golem' and 'Thousand-Handed Kannon' below him rapidly develop thick Frost under the ravages of the Blizzard.
Even he himself began to feel an unbearable bone-chilling Cold.
No, I can't drag this on any longer!
Hashirama Senju thought 'this is bad'.
But looking around, aside from the vast expanse of Wind and Snow,
His Vision could no longer see anything.
Mentally, he likewise couldn't sense the slightest Aura of Kuzan.
But with no Target...
Where should his 'Summit Transformation Buddha' strike?
"Admiral Aokiji, aren't you going to appear and fight me!"
Having no choice, Hashirama Senju had to shout towards all Directions.
"Ara la la la~ I'm really sorry~"
"The old me might have created equally huge creations to fight you Frontally."
"But now, this is my Combat Method. If you have no Method to deal with it, you should surrender as soon as possible."
Hashirama Senju was instantly speechless.
To be honest,
If Kuzan also had Chakra within his Body,
Then with his Agility/Dexterity to Chakra, he would likely be able to capture Kuzan's Aura, which had merged into the Environment after Element Transformation.
Unfortunately, Kuzan is not a Ninja, so he relies more on Observation Haki.
But the problem is, his Observation Haki is truly only at the initial Awakening Level.
How could he possibly sense Kuzan, who was intentionally hidden?
...
Hashirama Senju didn't know what to do.
Should he unleash the Thousand Hands of the 'Summit Transformation Buddha' in all Directions and gamble on Luck?
No.
The most important thing now is to first solve the invasion of this Low Temperature!
"Sage Art: Wood Release: Wood Clone Jutsu!"
Hashirama Senju made a prompt decision and separated four lifelike Manifestations from his Body, sending them flying out in different Directions.
When these Wood Clones, supported by purple Chakra, landed with difficulty in the Wind and Snow,
They immediately squatted on the ground and quickly formed Hand Seals.
"Four Red Yang Formation!"
In an instant, four crimson Barrier Jutsu emitting scorching High Temperature rose, and further formed a fifth Barrier Jutsu at the very top to seal it.
Originally, this Four Red Yang Formation required four Ninja with the so-called 'Hokage-level' Chakra Amount to Team Up and perform it.
But Hashirama Senju was currently in the Impure World Reincarnation State.
His Chakra would receive almost Infinite rapid replenishment.
Otherwise, even with the 'tons' of Chakra he had during his Life,
It would be difficult to perform a Sealing Jutsu of this Rank like the 'Four Red Yang Formation' after using 'Deep Forest Emergence', 'Wood Golem Technique', and 'True Several Thousand Hands'.
As expected,
As the 'Four Red Yang Formation' blocked the Blizzard outside, and with the heat emitted by the Barrier Jutsu itself,
Hashirama Senju could feel the surrounding Temperature rapidly warming up.
But what to do next?
Should he drag on with that Admiral Aokiji?
This Four Red Yang Formation could indeed be maintained indefinitely.
After all, there's no need to worry about Chakra consumption.
But the problem is, his Sage Mode won't last.
Once Sage Mode is gone, it's equivalent to no longer having any possibility of defeating the Opponent...
And Kuzan, hidden in the Wind and Snow,
First clicked his tongue in wonder at the marvel of the Four Red Yang Formation.
Then he patiently waited silently, not at all in a hurry to defeat Hashirama Senju's Idea.
There was no need!
His primary Target was originally just to contain Hashirama Senju.
Not to mention, as a Sea Star Person,
He was long since accustomed to battles that often lasted for days and nights.
So no need to rush, take it slow, he had plenty of patience...
What about the other party?
"By the way, Mr. Hashirama Senju, although it's awkward to say this, I think it's necessary to remind you."
"Sakazuki, that is, Army General Akainu, who is presiding over the Conquest Operation against This World, has Dispatched a Main Combat Brigade of 5000 people led by Admiral Aramaki, and they should have already launched a Sneak Attack on your Konohagakure..."
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 905: The Advancing Moon Lion Unit! (Combined Chapter)
Northwest direction within the Land of Fire.
In an open ground in the forest that had clearly been deliberately cleared out.
Earth and stone bungalows and watchtowers about three stories high were erected.
The most eye-catching among them were the Black-Clad Soldiers standing guard or patrolling.
With sturdy and tall physiques, sharp and resolute eyes, they exuded a formidable aura from head to toe.
Their presence made the atmosphere of the entire Camp appear particularly strict and orderly.
[Whoosh whoosh whoosh----]
Just then, a strange cold wind swept in from the South Side, bringing with it the rustling sound of tree leaves.
This caused astonishment among many Army Soldiers.
Even Officers (Field Grade) wearing black coats walked out to check the sky.
The Ninja World was currently in early summer, and coupled with the good geography of the Land of Fire.
Logically, there shouldn't be such a cold wind.
"Assembly!"
Just then, all Military Officers of Colonel rank and above received an order transmitted via Den Den Mushi.
Not long after.
Large numbers of Army Soldiers quickly surged out from various houses, rapidly forming columns in Squad, Platoon, Company units.
In an instant.
The entire Camp was filled with dense footsteps and impatient urging sounds.
And Admiral Aramaki, as the highest Commander.
Was leading Vice Admiral Stainless, who served as Brigade Commander behind him, and two Army Rear Admirals who served as Regimental Commanders, striding towards the City Gate ahead.
Admiral Aramaki's face was full of an arrogant smile.
He had just received intelligence from Cipher Pol.
Saying that Admiral Aokiji of the Marines had already trapped Hashirama Senju on the Southern Coast of the Land of Fire.
The implication was that he could now take action!
"Lahahaha!"
"This time, this old man wants to see who else in Konoha can stop me!"
Vice Admiral Stainless and the two behind Admiral Aramaki exchanged glances.
They heard a hint of resentment and expectation in the former's tone.
However, as subordinates, they couldn't say much about such matters.
At the same time, they became more curious about the Konoha Ninja who could make this Admiral Aramaki suffer a setback.
[Swish swish swish swish——]
Just as Vice Admiral Stainless's Main Combat Brigade was assembling troops.
Mink Tribe Members of various animal types, but wearing unified black military uniforms.
Like arrows released from a bowstring, they were the first to rush into the Sea of Trees outside the Camp.
Their number was around a hundred.
After spreading out, they quickly leaped between the somewhat overly tall trees.
The most surprising thing was.
Each of them wore a black Justice Coat, which flapped in the wind with their agile movements.
This was the 'Moon Lion Unit' proposed by the current Army Headquarters Admiral, 'Demon Shark' Douglas Bullet, with Mink Tribe Members as its main Members.
Their main mission was to scout the enemy troops' movements, numbers, positions, traps, and other intelligence at the forefront of the main force, as well as to deal with the spies sent out by the enemy troops and test the enemy troops' strength.
Due to the Mink Tribe's innate warrior qualities, their strength improvement speed was much faster than other races except for the Giant Tribe after joining the Army Headquarters.
This led to them easily reaching the Major level in not too long.
Hence the spectacular sight of all of them wearing Coat of Justice.
Now, basically every Regiment-level Army Main Combat Force had their presence to some extent.
Speaking of the formation process of the 'Moon Lion Unit', it actually went through some turmoil.
Among the High-ranking Officials within the Army, specifically Officers of Commodore rank and above.
Someone first proposed forming the 'Survey Corps' as the troops' 'Scout'.
Their idea was to mainly use human soldiers skilled in Omni-Directional Mobility Gear, supplemented by some Mink Tribe Members.
However, after several exercise tests.
These Army Officers were speechless to find that the human soldiers using Omni-Directional Mobility Gear were completely suppressed by the Mink Tribe Members.
Their agile movements were not worth mentioning.
After all, the human soldiers who could enter the Main Battle Legion were not bad either.
The key was that these Mink Tribe Members could not only discharge Electro from their bodies, but their sense of smell, sense of sight, sense of hearing, and other aspects were also more sensitive.
Moreover, they could adapt to various complex natural environments, especially thriving in places like jungles.
Also, the Omni-Directional Mobility Gear appeared very rigid in front of the Mink Tribe.
In addition to these advantages.
If fighting at night, and there happened to be a full Moon, which is around the fifteenth day of each month, the Mink Tribe could also awaken the 'Sulong' form, further boosting their strength in all aspects.
Therefore, whether it was human soldiers or soldiers of other races, it was difficult to compete with the Mink Tribe for the 'Scout' job.
Oh, the Snake-Neck Tribe was an exception.
Because in addition to their long necks like snakes, their extended tongue also had infrared sensing ability.
They could detect heat within a certain range, so there were also a few Snake-Neck Tribe Warriors in the current 'Moon Lion Unit'.
However, their number was too small to affect the troops' name.
And the Omni-Directional Mobility Gear, which was unilaterally 'eliminated' by the Army Headquarters, was favored by the Air Force Headquarters.
Zephyr, as the part-time Air Force Headquarters Marshal, had equipped all Airborne Units with Omni-Directional Mobility Gear.
This led to practicing Omni-Directional Mobility Gear becoming a daily training subject for every airborne soldier.
And those Eldians who were skilled in using Omni-Directional Mobility Gear.
Were basically absorbed by the Air Force Headquarters.
The Army Headquarters didn't care.
Although these Eldians, who were released from the World Government's labor sentence for their entire race at the price of all Adult Males serving military service.
For some unknown reason, they could suddenly self-determine the time to transform back into humans from 'Pure Titan', which significantly improved their military value.
But the Army Headquarters had a large number of Giant Warriors provided by the Elbaf Kingdom.
They simply looked down on the 'Pure Titan' form of the Eldians, which acted purely on instinct after transformation.
However.
Dragon, the Minister of the Judiciary's Ministry of Police Affairs.
Recently applied for a batch of Omni-Directional Mobility Gear, saying it was to strengthen the mobility of Police Officers in cities in Various Places.
It seemed because he felt that during the previous Space Pirate attack incident, the speed of Police Officers stationed in several Kingdoms responding to calls, whether by police motorcycle or on two legs, was too slow.
Dragon also mentioned in his report that Omni-Directional Mobility Gear could be used for fire rescue.
Because few Police Officers here could learn 'Moonwalk', this kind of extraordinary martial arts.
Returning to the Ninja World side.
The Mink Tribe and Snake-Neck Tribe Members of the Moon Lion Unit had no intention of waiting for the main force behind them.
While lamenting the vast Sea of Trees within the Land of Fire, they turned into afterimages and swept towards Konohagakure.
[Boom!!]
But just then.
A huge explosion sound suddenly appeared in a certain direction in the front row.
"That direction is..."
Sicilian, a lion Mink with thick reddish-brown hair and wearing a black D'Artagnan hat, as the Commander of this 'Moon Lion Unit', immediately raised his sharp lion eyes and gazed at the towering Hikari in the distance.
Soon, the Den Den Mushi in his Coat of Justice pocket made a sound.
When he took it out and answered it casually.
He saw the Den Den Mushi, also wearing a D'Artagnan hat on its head, shouting loudly on its furry paw.
"Report, Captain, this is the Hensley Squad of the Second Echelon. The Theo Squad ahead is suspected of being attacked by Explosive Tag. It should be an ambush that was set up in advance... Not good! There are Ninja attacking them!"
Then followed a series of whistling sounds and various commotion from the combat.
At the same time.
'Boom boom boom' explosion sounds also rang out one after another in other directions ahead.
Clearly.
The Squads of the First Echelon and Second Echelon.
Had already engaged in battle with the well-prepared Ninja.
"Ah ah ah, it hurts so much, my leg is gone!!"
An antelope Mink with long, pointed double horns on his head lay on the forest ground, clutching his blood-soaked severed leg.
While letting out a mournful scream, he rolled back and forth in suffering.
He was the first unlucky fellow to step on an Explosive Tag trap.
Although he wasn't blown to death on the spot, his leg below the thigh was not saved.
"Idiot Walda, quickly use Breathing Style to stop bleeding, and then eat a 'Purple Butterfly Pill'. Whether you can survive depends on your fate!"
Not far away.
Lieutenant Colonel Chaos, a Shiba Inu Mink who was fighting another Konoha Ninja, shouted a reminder during the gap when the two sides separated after a collision.
However, his pair of dog eyes remained fixed on the Ninja who was charging at him again.
"Ninja Art: Clone Jutsu!"
As the Konoha Chunin, who looked like a middle-aged uncle, formed hand seals in front of him, three figures quickly appeared on both sides.
The next moment.
Shuriken flashing with cold light were thrown out by them.
Seeing this, Lieutenant Colonel Chaos immediately burst with 'crackling' Electro.
He dodged the incoming Shuriken swarm at extremely high speed.
At the same time, his target was very clear as he rushed towards one of the Ninja.
This made Chunin Hisada secretly think it was bad.
He guessed that this Otherworlder who looked like a dog might also have the sensory ability mentioned in the intelligence.
Therefore, he could ignore the phantom clone he created.
"Earth Release: Stone Pillar Spear!"
Instantly, sharp and thick earth spikes rose from the Ground.
"Thunder Breathing! First Form! Thunderclap and Flash!"
Lieutenant Colonel Chaos, who was moving at high-speed movement, widened his dog eyes.
The Electro on his body quickly changed from blue to golden.
Instantly transforming into an incredibly fast electric flash, he crushed the earth spikes along the way and swept behind Chunin Hisada.
[Bang!]
But the body cut open by the blade exploded with white smoke and turned into a broken log.
At the same time.
A Kunai tied with a burning Explosive Tag flew through the white smoke towards Lieutenant Colonel Chaos's face.
"Shave!"
Just in the nick of time, the latter's figure turned into an afterimage and disappeared from the Original Spot.
When he reappeared, the Kunai had already flown behind him.
[Boom!!]
A violent explosion and Hikari bloomed.
Lieutenant Colonel Chaos, without looking back, turned into an electric flash and leaped into Mid-air.
"Thunder Breathing! Fifth Form! Heat Lightning!"
As the Nichirin Blade was swung rapidly.
A lightning-shaped golden slash mixed with real Electro bombarded towards Chunin Hisada below.
"Earth Release: Earth Wall!"
Feeling the death crisis, Chunin Hisada performed beyond his usual level, forming hand seals much faster than usual, creating a 'dome-shaped' earth wall to block Lieutenant Colonel Chaos's one strike.
[Boom!!]
The golden lightning instantly blasted open the thick earth wall.
Chunin Hisada's expression changed drastically.
But just as he concentrated Chakra in his feet and used Body Flicker Technique to flash out.
More golden lightning completely enveloped an area of tens of meters.
After all, Breathing Style sword technique didn't require hand seals.
"Thunder Breathing! Sixth Form! Rumble and Flash!"
Lieutenant Colonel Chaos's roar echoed throughout the entire area.
"Ah ah ah ah!"
Chunin Hisada, who was in the process of Body Flicker, was unfortunately struck by a lightning bolt.
He immediately let out a scream and fell to the Ground.
The sword aura cut open his back, and the dense Electro paralyzed his body.
"Fang Over Fang!"
"Thunder Breathing! Second Form! Rice Spirit!"
"Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique!"
"Serpent Breathing! Fifth Form! Winding Serpent!"
"Wind Release: Vacuum Wave!"
"Tempest Kick!"
At the same time.
In this somewhat unnatural vast Forest.
Mink Tribe Members wearing black Justice Coats, their bodies flickering with Electro, and their long sabers swinging out lightning slashes, were engaging in slaughter with a group of Konoha Ninja wearing green vests, all of whom were Chunin rank or above.
The lightning created by Breathing Style slashes, White Snake, Six Powers martial arts techniques, and Ninjutsu's flame, gale, and various other elements, as well as the secret techniques mastered by the Great Ninja Clans, frequently collided at this moment.
Rumbles, explosions, screams, and wails, one after another, accompanied by increasingly strong bloodshed, permeated the Sea of Trees.
Corpses belonging to both sides began to appear in the corners.
However, due to the Mink Tribe's more vigorous life force.
Coupled with everyone having a few 'Purple Butterfly Emergency Pills', and Breathing Style's inherent stop bleeding effect.
The Moon Lion Unit side had more injured than deceased.
As for the Konoha Ninja side, there were basically no injured...
In terms of the overall situation.
The Konoha Ninja side used the traps they had ambushed in advance in Various Places and the wonderful effect of various Ninjutsu to fight and retreat.
Because they had already discovered that except for those from Prestigious Ninja Clans, their own side found it difficult to gain the upper hand in head-on battle.
Moreover, they were just a Scout Unit, there was no need to fight too desperately.
And during this process.
The High-ranking Officials of both sides were also receiving a large amount of transmitted intelligence.
Konoha had gained some understanding of the Mink Tribe and Snake-Neck Tribe.
And Admiral Aramaki and Vice Admiral Stainless's side also knew that the other party had already anticipated being attacked.
Next, they would face unimaginable various traps and Ninja harassment.
"Hmph, meaningless struggle!"
Admiral Aramaki, watching the nearly five thousand Army Units move out in batches, sneered with disdain after hearing the report from a Colonel behind him.
"This old man will rush over now and clean up all those Ninja and their traps!"
"Please wait a moment, Admiral Aramaki."
But just as Admiral Aramaki was about to make a move, Vice Admiral Stainless spoke up and called out to him.
"Hmm?"
"Admiral Aramaki, since Admiral Akainu ordered you to lead us to act together, let us handle these Ninja for you."
Vice Admiral Stainless said calmly, meeting Admiral Aramaki's gaze.
The two Rear Admirals serving as Regimental Commanders behind him nodded slightly in agreement.
Several Officers (Field Grade) nearby also cast expectant gazes towards Admiral Aramaki.
After all, they also had a pursuit for military merit.
If Admiral Aramaki went alone and solved everything, what would be the purpose of them coming all this way?
Now, military merit could not only be exchanged for resources and promotions in military rank, but even peerage and Private Territory could be obtained.
Although this kind of military merit noble title could not be inherited by their children after their death, and the Territory would also be reclaimed.
But the peerage annuity for at least a ten-year term was enough for their family to live a relatively wealthy life for a long time.
"Alright."
Admiral Aramaki was somewhat displeased, but after a moment of silence, he still nodded in agreement.
Although he appeared very arrogant, he wasn't truly brainless.
"Then you guys deal with these troublesome Ninja Army, and this old man will go check out their Base Camp!"
In Admiral Aramaki's opinion, the merit of suppressing Konohagakure was the main prize.
And it had to be fast.
Because he wasn't sure how long Admiral Aokiji could hold off Hashirama Senju.
It just so happened that Vice Admiral Stainless's Main Combat Brigade could attract most of the Wood Leaf Faction's attention for him.
"Okay, I hope your movements are a little slower~"
Vice Admiral Stainless made a joke with a wry smile.
"Heh heh."
Admiral Aramaki pretended not to hear.
He directly used element transformation into tree branches and infiltration into the Earth below.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 906: The World Government's Challenge! (6500-character Great Chapter)
"Vice Admiral Stainless has sent a report. Their main force has engaged the Konoha Ninja."
"The latter are relying on their familiarity with the environment, prepared traps, and the coordination of various Ninjutsu to block their advance layer by layer."
"However, Vice Admiral Stainless stated that they are confident in achieving victory."
"In addition, Admiral Aramaki has separated from the troops and is heading to Konohagakure alone."
At the top floor of the Central High Tower in Lou Lan City.
Shiryu relayed the latest battle report from his subordinates to Sakazuki.
"Mm."
Sakazuki merely nodded, not offering many opinions.
If Aramaki still couldn't take Konoha this time, it would prove the guy was useless, and he wouldn't bother with him anymore.
The place they were currently in was not the Main Hall used for discussions in Loulan.
Instead, it was a spacious Room adjacent to the Main Hall.
Sakazuki had slightly rearranged the layout here, converting it into his Office and Restroom.
Shiryu had previously asked him why he didn't just put his Office Desk in the Main Hall and work from the Throne.
After all, with Sakazuki's status, he was fully qualified to do so.
Furthermore, Loulan was not yet an Affiliated Countries of the World Government.
But Sakazuki had only casually replied at the time, "I am a Soldier, not interested in Thrones."
"Then I shall take my leave."
"Mm."
Sakazuki paid no mind to Shiryu's departure.
Because on the Table in front of him lay several Reports.
The main content concerned the Situation in other parts of the Ninja World.
First, regarding the Land of Birds.
Stone Hidden, which was being attacked from both sides by the Allied Forces of Sunagakure, Rain Hidden Village, Waterfall Hidden, and Hidden Grass, performed exceptionally well.
Ōnoki, the veteran Third Tsuchikage, used his exquisite Earth Release and powerful Kekkei Tōta 'Dust Release' to ultimately defeat Hanzo, who was known as the 'Demigod'.
Hanzo's Giant Salamander and one of his Left Arms turned to ash under the White Light of 'Dust Release'.
This terrified Hanzo, making him disregard everything else.
He directly abandoned everyone, including his newly accepted Disciple Yahiko, and fled desperately.
Ōnoki did not pursue Hanzo.
He directly turned his Eyes, filled with Killing Intent, towards the Ninja from Rain Hidden Village, Waterfall Hidden, Hidden Grass, and other Villages.
And the extreme White Light blooming in his hands also moved with his Line of Sight, sweeping away everyone who couldn't dodge in time, disintegrating their Bodies along with the Ground into an Atomic State.
Yahiko, only twelve years old, to protect Konan and Nagato.
Immediately communicated with the Two-Tails Matatabi within his Body and entered a 'Partial Tailed Beast Transformation' state.
But even so, he was no match for Ōnoki at all.
Whether it was the Fireball he spat out or the small Tailed Beast Bomb, they were all annihilated under the Radiance of 'Dust Release'.
Yahiko had no choice.
He could only barely dodge the Strafe of 'Dust Release' by relying on his greatly increased Speed and Reaction.
But this clearly couldn't last long.
Ultimately, Ōnoki used Earth Release to interfere, forcing the 'Partial Tailed Beast Transformation' Yahiko into a Desperate Situation.
Just as expected, Nagato stepped forward, blocking Yahiko.
He then used the 'Blocking Technique Absorption Seal' of his exposed Rinnegan to absorb all the White Light of 'Dust Release' as Chakra.
Taking advantage of Ōnoki's shock, he used 'Universal Pull' to pull him down from the Air/Sky, and finally inflicted a Severe Injury with 'Shinra Tensei'.
However, the young Nagato had no intention of killing Ōnoki.
After using 'Blocking Technique Absorption Seal' to help Yahiko recover his Human Form and Rationality from the 'Partial Tailed Beast Transformation' state, he quickly took Konan and left the Battlefield.
According to the observation of the CIPHER POL-8 members tracking them in secret, they should be returning to Amegakure.
Here, the document requested instructions from Sakazuki on whether to Intercept these 'Three Little Ones' on the way back to Loulan.
"Two-Tails, Rinnegan..."
Sakazuki, sitting at his Office Desk, was lost in Thought.
He wasn't hesitating about whether to Order the capture of Yahiko and the others.
Rather, he doubted whether CIPHER POL-8 truly had the capability to deal with Nagato, who could severely injure the Third Tsuchikage, and Yahiko, who could undergo Tailed Beast Transformation at any time.
Ever since Queen Sara, whom they were protecting, was taken away by the Konoha Ninja, Sakazuki had little Trust in the Strength of CIPHER POL-8.
He didn't want any Accidents to happen in between...
Finally, Sakazuki requested that while tracking them in secret, they should try their best to slow down their steps and wait for the Professionals to go and apprehend Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan.
As for the Professionals.
Sakazuki instructed Shiryu to notify Tengen Uzui to lead the Ninja of Sea Ninja Village to execute this Mission.
He had already understood the Strength of this Jonin, Tengen Uzui.
His Haki, Swordsmanship, Martial Arts, Invisibility Technique, coupled with the boost from the Paramecia Type Sound Wave Fruit, gave him a Comprehensive Strength comparable to a Vice Admiral Level Combat Power in the Main Battle Legion of the Army Headquarters.
With the Advantage of Intelligence, the Probability of completing the Mission should be high.
Not long after.
Tengen Uzui, who had long been bored, received the Order and immediately led Takumi, Hotei, Fukurokuju, Yazaemon, Bishamon, and other Sea Hidden Jonin to swept out of the Loulan City Wall, transforming into Afterimages on the Golden Vast Desert, soaring through the air towards the Border between the Land of Birds and the Country of Rain.
As for the severely injured Ōnoki.
Although he received timely Protection from the Iwagakure Ninja.
He no longer had the Ability to continue heading towards Stone Village.
He could only rely on the Efforts of Kitsuchi and others to desperately block the Hidden Sand Army led by Rasa.
According to CIPHER POL-8's view.
The Iwagakure Ninja led by Kitsuchi would find it difficult to hold on for too long.
Because Sunagakure now controlled a large number of Roran Puppets, with Shukaku responsible for providing Chakra.
On another Report, the Situation of Stone Village, which Ōnoki was so concerned about, was written.
The Third Raikage led his Son and nearly five thousand Cloud Hidden Ninja.
They broke through the heavy Interception of the Iwagakure Ninja and fought all the way to the outside of the Valley.
It wasn't until they encountered Han, the Five-Tails Jinchuriki, and Roshi, the Four-Tails Jinchuriki, who arrived midway, that their advance was stopped.
Initially, the Third Raikage relied on his greatly enhanced Strength.
Even when these two experienced Jinchuriki entered 'Partial Tailed Beast Transformation', he could easily Suppress them.
But when Han and Roshi both underwent 'Full Tailed Beast Transformation', it wasn't so easy.
If it were just one 'Complete Tailed Beast', the Third Raikage wouldn't feel much Pressure.
But two teaming up would result in an 'one plus one is greater than two' Effect.
This made it difficult for him to defeat the 'Four-Tails' and 'Five-Tails' in a short time.
According to the description of the CIPHER POL-8 members observing nearby.
It was a terrifying Fierce Battle with Magma flowing, Steam filling the Air, and Electric Flash flickering.
A High-Definition footage taken with a Den Den Mushi at the time was also attached.
"Four-Tails..."
Sakazuki's Gaze was immediately drawn to the Red-haired Gorilla within.
As he watched, he noticed that the Ability of this 'Four-Tails' was very similar to his Mag-Mag Fruit.
Not just because it could create Magma.
But also because it could Control Magma to simulate the Impact Force of a Volcanic Eruption.
As a Logia User of the Mag-Mag Fruit.
Sakazuki understood clearly.
Only Magma with powerful Impact Force could be called 'Volcanic'.
However, precisely because their Abilities overlapped, this 'Four-Tails' was useless to him.
At most, it could serve as a 'same Attribute' Pet...
However.
Sakazuki's brows furrowed at some point as he read the end of this Report.
Because it said:
Just as the Third Raikage was battling the 'Four-Tails' and 'Five-Tails'.
Crocodile, who had transformed into a large expanse of Yellow Sand, appeared in the Air/Sky with his peculiar Hoarse Laughter.
Suddenly appeared in the Air/Sky.
As expected, the massive Beast Bodies of the 'Four-Tails' and 'Five-Tails' were instantly blown apart by Crocodile's 'Desert Treasure Blade', and the unconscious Han and Roshi were also captured by him, swept up by Yellow Sand.
He showed no regard for the Third Raikage, whose Expression was grim.
Because in about another day, he was confident he could also defeat the 'Four-Tails' and 'Five-Tails'.
Now, such a Great Merit was snatched away by someone else. How could he not feel uncomfortable?
Not to mention the Third Raikage's Temper was always volatile.
This made it even more annoying.
But facing Crocodile.
The only way the Third Raikage could express his stubbornness was with a blank Expression and Silence.
Not only because of the opponent's terrifying Strength, but also because of the opponent's Identity.
In the end, filled with unwillingness, he could only obey Crocodile's Order and assist him in the Occupation of the entire Stone Village.
"This Bastard..."
Sakazuki's Face completely darkened.
He truly hadn't expected Crocodile to personally go to Stone Village.
Didn't this guy always prefer to engage in a bunch of underhanded Conspiracies behind the scenes?
However.
Crocodile was now telling him through his Actions that when it was time to Make a move, he would Make a move!
Not only that.
According to the Report from CIPHER POL-8.
Crocodile subsequently went to the Capital City of the Land of Earth.
In front of all the Official and Samurai, he turned the second Daimyo into a Mummy.
This caused great Chaos within the Land of Earth.
In Crocodile's view.
If the World Government wanted to gain the allegiance of most Ninja faster after conquering the Ninja World, these Daimyo could not continue to exist.
And if they were to be dealt with after the war, it would inevitably involve many nominal Troubles.
It was better to clean them up now.
He believed the High-ranking Official of the World Government would be very happy to see this Result.
Of course, they definitely wouldn't show it openly.
The only Price was that his Reputation would become very bad in the Ninja World.
He would also be feared by some Royalty and Nobility from Other Worlds and other Kingdoms.
But in Crocodile's Eyes, all of this was nonsense!
"It's over."
Sakazuki Shook his Head helplessly.
He knew he couldn't stop Crocodile from rising to power.
Even if Aramaki successfully Suppressed Konohagakure, he would likely not be able to snatch the Army General Position.
Unless...
Aramaki also conveniently eliminated the Daimyo of the Land of Fire, as well as the Daimyo of the other three Great Countries.
Hmm, maybe that's not impossible?
Sakazuki fell into Thought.
He was considering whether to give Aramaki a Phone Call about it.
As for the Reason.
Didn't the Daimyo of the Land of Fire Declare War on them before?
Although the target of the Declaration of War was Crocodile and Sunagakure.
But Crocodile was an Army General.
The Land of Wind and Sunagakure were also considered under the Control of the World Government.
So it could arguably be seen as declaring war on the World Government.
However, Sakazuki ultimately decided.
He would ask the Five Elders first.
After all, the Identity of a Daimyo in the Ninja World was unusual.
It would be inappropriate for him, as a Marine Headquarters Admiral, to directly Order their execution.
It was the same on the Sea Star Mainland before.
To dispose of a King of a Nation, the Order of the Five Elders was required.
Of course.
Im could always use the 'National Treasure' to erase any Nation he wanted to destroy at any time.
"Executing the Daimyo of the Ninja World?"
"Then who will manage the Ninja World for the World Government after the Conquest?"
"The Daimyo of the Land of Fire cannot be touched, leave it as is."
[Splat!]
The Den Den Mushi closed its Eyes.
Sakazuki's Expression was ashen.
Finally, he also closed his Eyes and let out a heavy sigh.
There was nothing he could do...
But what he didn't know was that his Phone Call also triggered a debate within the Room of Authority.
"This Old Man thinks there's nothing that can't be touched."
Saint Jaygarcia Saturn leaned calmly on the green Sofa and stated his Idea.
"Didn't Lord Imu mention sending Elite Celestial Dragons who graduated from the Celestial Dragon Holy Academy to rule the conquered Otherworlds?"
"With these Ninja World Daimyo gone, it will be convenient for them to take over."
Saint Topman Warcury, sitting next to him, Shook his Head, not entirely agreeing.
"The 'Planetary Governor Plan' proposed by Lord Imu is not for these Elite Celestial Dragons to actually manage the Government Affairs of the Otherworlds, but to supervise the Development of the Nations in that World and simultaneously coordinate the Resources of that World for the World Government."
"Therefore, there still needs to be a local Leader Representative to organize the Official Government, which will also make it easier for the local Populace to accept the Rule of the World Government."
Saint Jaygarcia Saturn immediately fell Silent, indicating that he had no further Opinion.
"So you've decided to let the Daimyo of the Land of Fire be the Leader Representative of the Ninja World?"
Saturn, wearing a black flat hat and with a scar on his Face, grinned.
"Yes, considering all the Conditions, the Daimyo of the Land of Fire is the most suitable Candidate."
Saint Topman Warcury nodded.
"That's true..."
But at this moment.
In the Mid-air above the Coffee Table in the Center, a Holographic Virtual High-Definition projection suddenly appeared.
It was Stussy in a black professional suit!
"Respected Five Elders."
She first Bowed forward, then raised her beautiful Face with a Smile.
"I am here to convey Lord Imu's Instruction to you."
Upon hearing this, the Five Elders all Stood Up.
Respectfully placing their Hands in front of them, they assumed a posture of listening attentively.
"Firstly, Lord Imu has decided that Queen Sara of Roran will be the World Government's Leader Representative in the Ninja World, and after the Conquest is completed, her Membership Application will be accepted. From then on, Loulan will be the Ninja World Center!"
The Five Elders and others remained Composed upon hearing this.
After all, it didn't matter who became the Ninja World Representative, as long as there was one.
"Secondly, the third Marine Headquarters Admiral will be the current Marine Headquarters Admiral, 'Sand Crocodile' Crocodile, who holds the Epithet of 'Admiral Candidate', after the Conquest of the Ninja World is completed!"
Upon hearing this, the Five Elders exchanged glances.
They were somewhat surprised that Lord Imu would personally interfere in this Matter.
But seeing that Stussy had no intention of providing an Explanation.
They immediately composed their Expressions and respectfully replied in unison, "We humbly obey Lord Imu's Divine Oracle!"
The next second, Stussy's full Body projection disappeared.
The Five Elders and others Relaxed and sat back down on the Sofa.
"It seems we need to quickly notify Sakazuki to ensure the Safety of that Queen of Rōran..."
Saint Jaygarcia Saturn said, glancing at Saint Shepherd Ju Peter.
After all, it was the Cipher Pol under his management that lost Queen Sara.
Saint Shepherd Ju Peter's Face fell upon seeing this, but he didn't say much more.
"Mm, besides that, we also need to tell Sakazuki about the World Government's Decision regarding Queen Sara as the Ninja World Territory Representative. I believe he will Understand what that means..."
Saint Topman Warcury said calmly.
"And that Aramaki, after occupying Konoha, should be recalled..."
As the Overseer/Manager of the Military, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn had no Opinion on this either.
He just casually added, "He can be given the Epithet of 'Admiral Candidate' as a Reward."
In his opinion, if Aramaki truly had the capability.
He could completely challenge Crocodile in the next 'Summit War'.
If he won.
He believed Lord Imu wouldn't mind changing the Army General.
After all, this was also a Rule personally set by Lord Imu.
Meanwhile.
Sakazuki, who was in Rouran of the Ninja World and feeling somewhat displeased.
Found that the Den Den Mushi he had just put away rang again.
After answering, his Face first showed Delight, then darkened again.
Confirming Queen Sara of Lou Lan as the Ninja World Leader Representative.
This meant that those Daimyo were no longer important, and he could completely notify Aramaki to do as he pleased.
But after occupying Konoha, requiring Aramaki to immediately return to the Sea Star Mainland.
What was the meaning of receiving the 'Admiral Candidate Epithet' and corresponding Medal from the Command Department?
Couldn't this wait until after the Conquest of the Ninja World?!
Sakazuki thought for a moment and somewhat figured it out.
They had already decided on the Candidate for the third Army General, hadn't they?
"Hmph!"
Rage surged in Sakazuki's Heart, and he was about to punch the Tabletop.
In the end, he restrained himself and let go.
Turning all his dissatisfaction into a heavy Cold Snort.
"There were other Choices, but they had to choose a Pirate!"
However, Sakazuki quickly calmed his Mood.
Since things were already like this, he could only choose to accept it.
In fact, he himself hadn't noticed.
His aversion towards these Officers of Pirate Origin.
Had decreased significantly during these years of Otherworld Conquest.
If it were before.
Let alone a Table.
His Rage would have been enough to completely ignite the entire High Tower.
Sakazuki expressionlessly picked up the last Report and began to read it.
Soon, his Attention was focused on it.
Because it was about the Combat Situation between Kuzan and Hashirama Senju.
However, the detailed Process was limited to before Kuzan used 'Ice Age'.
The content after that described the Scene of 'Ice Age' from a great Distance and observed its Impact on the Ninja World's Climate.
To be honest.
After reading it, Sakazuki's Mood was somewhat heavy.
Because he knew Kuzan hadn't used his Full Strength yet.
At least the Technique that could 'Frozen Time/Space' hadn't been used.
"Does cultivating Natural Energy provide such a significant Improvement in Strength?"
Sakazuki couldn't remain Composed anymore.
Previously, he had only judged based on the Aura Kuzan occasionally emitted.
That the other party's Strength had improved significantly, vaguely giving him a Feeling no less than his own.
But now, seeing the actual Power after Kuzan Made a move, he had a direct understanding.
Although he didn't want to admit it, in terms of Ability, Kuzan's Ice-Ice Fruit was clearly stronger than his Mag-Mag Fruit.
Therefore, Sakazuki very much hoped to Cultivate Natural Energy as soon as possible.
Otherwise, the Gap between them would definitely grow larger and larger.
Unless his Martial Arts and Haki could further improve to Garp's Realm.
Sakazuki took out a Document from the cabinet below, titled "Introduction and Analysis of 'Sage Jutsu' in 'Ninja World' No. 0006".
This was recently sent to him by the World Government Headquarters on the Sea Star Mainland.
Although it was nominally from the Academy of Science.
Sakazuki felt it was likely the handiwork of Lord Imu.
It first explained what 'Sage Mode' was and what 'Sage Mode Chakra' was.
Then it introduced the Sage Mode Training Process at Mount Myoboku.
Subsequently, it pointed out that 'Toad Oil' from 'Mount Myoboku', when applied to the skin.
Could allow people to easily perceive the Natural Energy in the Air, thereby gathering it into the Body for Absorption and Cultivation.
Until they became accustomed to the existence of Natural Energy and no longer relied on Toad Oil.
However, it also mentioned the Risk for ordinary people who absorb Natural Energy through this Method.
Once they lose Control.
Their Bodies would first change towards Frog Species, and finally completely Petrification.
It was noted here that the Body turning into a Frog Species should be related to the Toad Oil.
If there was no Toad Oil, and the Human Body absorbed Natural Energy without controlling it.
There was a high Probability of turning into various kinds of Monsters...
Of course.
According to the Result of Kuzan's Natural Energy Cultivation, it has been confirmed that Logia Users do not face this kind of dangerous Risk after absorbing Natural Energy.
At most, it is difficult to absorb and Control Natural Energy that does not match their Attribute.
There was just one thing that the Academy of Science at the Biochemical Research Institute was very curious about.
What would happen if it were Logia Users of the Gas-Gas Fruit, Sand-Sand Fruit, Smoke-Smoke Fruit, or Swamp-Swamp Fruit?
Was there a corresponding Attribute for them in Natural Energy?
In short, this Report was telling Sakazuki.
I know you are eager to Cultivate Natural Energy, but don't rush yet.
I have already found a Method you can Attempt.
Indeed.
After reading it, Sakazuki's Face showed Surprise.
Mount Myoboku's Toad Oil!
Actually, Ryūchi Cave and Shikkotsu Forest also had similar things.
The former was through the 'White Snake Sage' personally injecting Snake Venom into the Cultivator.
The latter... he didn't know, he would ask Katsuyu when the time came.
"But how do I find these so-called 'Ninja World Holy Land'?"
Sakazuki muttered to himself.
But at least he saw Hope.
This swept away the heaviness and displeasure in his Heart.
On the other side.
Im, who was in the Empire Arms World, was with Historia.
They arrived at a prosperous City called 'Shuiyun' in the Plains Region Southeast of the Empire.
Interestingly... this place also had the Epithet 'Water Seven'.
This City had also suffered a Great Disaster before.
It was the Super Large Blizzard that Esdeath released on the East Sea back then.
It caused countless people and Livestock in the entire Southern Region of the Empire to freeze to death.
Of course.
According to the Empire's Propaganda at the time, the Culprit was the World Government's Marine Admiral 'Aokiji'.
So Kuzan was cursed by the Populace who survived here for a very long time.
It only gradually subsided after the Empire joined the World Government...
However, 'Shuiyun' benefited from being near the Confluence of a Great River and its Tributaries, possessing fertile Vast Plains, and being an important Branch Religious City of the Peace Religion.
Coupled with the Empire's Resource Allocation, it recovered its Vitality not long after and once again became the famous 'Commercial Capital' of the Empire Arms World.
Im's Purpose in coming here was truly just to wander around.
After all, staying on Noah's Ark all the time wasn't ideal either.
He also wanted to taste the Roman Crab Meat here.
It just required the Official, Religious Figure, Army Soldier, and hundreds of thousands of Populace in the entire City to Kneel on the Ground for a period of time to express basic Respect for the Celestial Dragons...
Im did not want to change the Rules that ordinary people had to Kneel upon seeing a Celestial Dragon and could only Stand Up after receiving Permission.
The Thought of Equality for All was not feasible here.
"Sakazuki should be very happy after reading that Document~"
Im thought to himself while enjoying the Roman Crab Meat prepared by a Professional Chef and looking at the Scenery of the entire City kneeling outside.
Ever since he heard that Sakazuki had inquired multiple times about the Neutralization Progress of 'Crimson Lotus Blood'.
He knew that this Admiral Akainu was getting a bit anxious due to being pressured by Kuzan.
And among the many Admirals, he appreciated Sakazuki the most.
So he simply gave the other party some Information in advance as an Appeasement.
It was just a pity that in Im's view, the Potential of the Mag-Mag Fruit was difficult to compare with the Ice-Ice Fruit and Glint-Glint Fruit.
If all three only improved their Strength through cultivating Natural Energy.
Sakazuki, who could foresee the Future, would definitely be left behind by Kuzan and Borsalino, and the higher the Realm, the greater the Gap.
This Problem was still manageable now.
But in the Future, it would definitely be a Challenge Sakazuki had to Face...
As for appointing Crocodile as the third Army General.
It was because Im liked Crocodile more than Aramaki.
Although Aramaki seemed more 'Respectful' towards the Celestial Dragons and protected them more.
As a Transmigrator, Im still felt that Crocodile was more suitable to be an Army General.
After all, an Admiral was the Facade of the World Government.
Not only did they need to be Strong enough, but their Image also needed to have sufficient Aura.
"And those Space Pirates, I really didn't expect them to be so close to the World..."
Im's deep Gaze looked towards the Sky of the Empire Arms World.
The Challenges the World Government faced were increasing.
(End of Chapter)
## Chapter 907: Aramaki Attacks Again! (Combined Chapter)
Ninja World.
Following the battle between Kuzan and Hashirama Senju.
Recently, the temperature within the Land of Fire's borders has plummeted.
It was clearly still May, yet there was an autumn chill like that of August or September.
And the further south one went, the colder it became, to the point where falling snow could even be seen everywhere.
At this moment, Aramaki was filled with excitement.
He was currently transformed into a thick, long tree branch, lurking Underground.
Actually, this experience wasn't pleasant for him.
After all, his 'Sense of Sight' didn't possess the 'X-ray Vision' Ability.
So when he was Underground, his 'eyes' were completely in darkness.
How, then, did Aramaki distinguish Direction?
Aura.
Observation Haki could sense the Aura of living Creatures.
Due to its Geography, the Land of Fire possessed rich Natural Resources.
And because of Hashirama Senju's Wood Release, the Forestry Resources were exceptionally abundant.
Forestry, in turn, produced a large number of Wild Animals.
Every Bird that flew, every Beast that walked.
They were like 'Light Spot' on a 'radar'.
Forming a constantly changing 'Map' in Aramaki's Brain.
Direction naturally became clear and obvious.
At the same time, his Speed of movement was far less than moving on the Surface.
The tree branch he transformed into had to constantly drill through the Earth, and the Resistance was definitely greater than in Air, or even in Water.
"Eh?"
After lurking Underground for who knows how long, Aramaki suddenly discovered some Aura in the distance that were far more powerful than Wild Beast, moving at a Speed far exceeding that of Bird, converging towards his Position.
No need to think, they must be Ninja.
"This great me has been discovered?"
Aramaki was very surprised in his Heart.
Although he never thought he could successfully infiltrate Konohagakure from the start.
To be discovered so quickly at this Distance was truly astonishing.
Because according to Intelligence.
The Byakugan of the Hyuga Clan only had a visible range of a mere one kilometer.
The Distance between him and these Ninja was more than ten kilometers, wasn't it?
"Lord Hokage, Jonin Chokou Aburame's Parasitic Destruction Insect Technique has discovered a presence Underground, moving at high Speed towards Konoha from the northwest Direction."
An Anbu Ninja appeared in the Hokage's Office, reporting to Orochimaru who was in the Main Seat: "However, it's not clear exactly what it is. The information fed back by the Parasitic Destruction Insect Technique indicates it is not a Creature."
Senju Tobirama, Jiraiya, Nara Shikaku, Uchiha Fugaku, and others sitting on the Sofa nearby naturally also heard this Situation.
"That makes sense. It's probably that Aramaki again. He doesn't have Chakra in his Body, and he can do Tree Transformation, so in the Parasitic Destruction Insect Technique's Perception, he doesn't possess the Characteristics of a Creature."
Senju Tobirama Stand Up and said in a deep voice.
It was he who had previously speculated that the true purpose behind Admiral Akainu's challenge was to tie down Hashirama Senju while sending people to Attack Konohagakure.
Therefore, he suggested to Orochimaru to form Squad composed of Ninja from the Hyuga Clan, Aburame Clan, Inuzuka Clan, and Uchiha Clan.
Using these Squad as the Core, supplemented by other Squad, they would establish multi-layered Detection Defense Line on the west side facing the Land of Wind.
The Parasitic Destruction Insect Technique of the Aburame Clan was responsible for spreading out on the outermost layer, both above and below Surface.
The Byakugan of the Hyuga Clan was responsible for Scan within one kilometer.
The Inuzuka Clan and their Ninja Dog were responsible for sniffing the Scent in the Air.
And the Sharingan of the Uchiha Clan had excellent Night Vision Ability.
So, as long as they didn't fly from the Sky, it would be difficult for Konoha not to detect them in advance.
As for aerial Detection, to be honest, Senju Tobirama didn't have any good Method either, only letting the Hyuga Clan's Ninja check upwards at regular intervals.
Air Combat and Air Defense.
It could be said to be a major weakness of the entire Ninja World.
Perhaps this was the main reason why Konohagakure insisted on destroying the Hidden Sky Village ten years ago.
Presumably, the other Ninja Village at that time.
Even if they didn't directly participate, they should have shown an Attitude of tacit approval.
Otherwise, how could the Stone Village above, Sunagakure below, and Hanzo of the Amegakure allow Konoha to penetrate deep into the Land of Birds?
One must know that even the Hoshigakure within the Land of Bears, which privately called its Commander a 'Kage'.
Is still doing well to this day.
And the neighboring Stone Village and Sunagakure haven't seen fit to destroy it out of dislike.
This resulted in the Land of Birds no longer having its own Ninja Village.
Leading to a future in the 'Canon' where even investigating Matter like 'Undead Samurai' required traveling thousands of miles to do Employment of Konoha Ninja.
And having its authority stolen by a Rogue Ninja named Meng Zong.
As for why they would rather seek out Konoha, the Culprit, than the closer Stone Village or Sunagakure, that remains unclear.
"Since that's the case, let's proceed according to the previous Plan. I will lead ten Jonin, the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, and the thirty Hidden Mist Jonin they brought to intercept the opponent!"
"Alright, I'll leave it to you, Second Hokage-sama."
Orochimaru Stand Up and looked at Senju Tobirama with a Smile as he left the Office.
He had previously thought that the other party might be dissatisfied because he had removed Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane from all their Position and placed them under house arrest, but he didn't expect that after hearing the full story, Senju Tobirama actually gave them a severe scolding.
Although it was only a brief contact.
Even Senju Tobirama could see that Orochimaru was more suitable to be Hokage than Jiraiya.
With his Politics acumen, how could he not see the petty 'Personal Interest' of Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane that couldn't be put on the table?
"Ah, a battle that's clearly going to be lost, it's really demotivating."
Jiraiya said helplessly, slumped on the Sofa.
According to the Plan decided earlier.
These Expert from Konoha needed to stay behind and Protect the Village.
After all, no one could be sure how many waves of Attack the World Government would send.
"I also don't understand why that Admiral Akainu from Rōran isn't willing to accept our Peace Talks?"
Yamanaka Inoichi, whose Injuries had healed, echoed with Doubt.
Everyone knew that 'Peace Talks' was just a nicer way of saying they would actively Surrender.
But requiring them to release Hashirama Senju's Impure World Reincarnation and setting the Meeting location in Konohagakure.
The Malice in this was too obvious.
"Regarding this, I do have a bit of Speculation."
Nara Shikaku rested his Chin on the back of his Hand and said: "Is it possible that that Admiral Akainu doesn't want us to Surrender?"
"Hmm?"
Jiraiya, Uchiha Fugaku, Yamanaka Inoichi, and others raised their Eyebrows.
"Directly doing Occupation of the enemy's Base Camp during War and doing Occupation of the enemy's Base Camp by accepting their Surrender, although the Result seems the same, the Merit will have a significant Gap."
Orochimaru took over Nara Shikaku's words and further did Explanation.
"I see!"
Jiraiya suddenly understood, but immediately shouted in Anger: "That's too much! To cause so many unnecessary Sacrifice on both sides for his own Personal Interest!"
"No."
Orochimaru did a Shake Head, saying with an Expressionless face:
"The Officer and Soldiers under his Subordinate might support him doing this even more."
"An Influence/Power that constantly invades and does Conquest of Other Worlds is bound to be filled with Warmongers."
Uchiha Fugaku, still sitting on the Sofa with his hands crossed over his Chest, frowned.
"Then can't we just offer non-resistance and let them in directly? Anyway, we've already decided to Surrender."
"Cough cough, there's still a certain difference between Peace Talks and Surrender."
Yamanaka Inoichi replied to Uchiha Fugaku: "Accepting their Rule after Peace Talks, that's what we want."
"Rather than letting their Troops directly do Occupation of the Village during Wartime. That Risk is too great, and no one knows what excessive Matter their Troops might do."
Politics submission and Military Suppression are indeed different.
"But that Admiral Akainu is unwilling to accept Peace Talks, and we are simply no Opponent for them. What's the point of fighting like this?"
The more Uchiha Fugaku spoke, the more he felt his Idea was correct.
Given the current Situation, to reduce Sacrifice and quickly accept the opponent's Rule.
The only way is non-resistance.
Although he couldn't be sure that excessive Matter wouldn't happen after Konoha was done Occupation.
For example, their Soldiers killing people in the Village.
But he felt that they wouldn't be overly pressured on them, the Great Ninja Clans.
After all, everyone would definitely be on the same side in the future, and they would likely invade Other Worlds together.
With their Bloodline Limit Ability.
They would definitely receive more Importance than Civilian.
As for Ninja Clan like Nara Clan, Akimichi Clan, and Yamanaka Clan, who only have Secret Technique, that's not necessarily the case.
After all, Secret Technique can be taken!
Meanwhile.
Aramaki had already appeared on the Surface.
And he already knew the reason he was discovered.
Because he was being besieged by wave after wave of 'Black Mist'.
Parasitic Destruction Insect Technique!
It was all dense, countless Insect Swarm!
Aramaki didn't care at first, they were just Bugs that could be crushed with a casual Fist.
But as Time passed, the Insect Swarm grew larger and larger.
And they were flying down in an orderly manner, in batches from the Air.
Giving him no chance to eliminate them all at once.
This made Aramaki very annoyed.
He immediately used the Woods-Woods Fruit Ability to do Manufacturing of many Supernatural Plants specifically designed to eat Bugs.
Although the Effect was good.
It ultimately delayed his Footwork to a certain extent.
This made Aramaki realize that he couldn't follow the opponent's Pace.
[Bang!]
Immediately, no longer caring about the Insect Swarm or Plants, he pushed off the Ground with force.
His entire Body shot out like an arrow released from a bowstring, transforming into Black Lightning.
Leaving behind only patches of cracked Earth and White Mist Air Current where he had blasted away large areas of the Insect Swarm.
Next came bursts of Sonic Boom that echoed across the wilderness.
Aramaki's astonishing Action.
Caused the Insect Swarm, which flew in the Air like Black Clouds, to desperately try to catch up.
But they could only watch Aramaki's Back View disappear into the distance.
"Lahahaha~"
"You bunch of stinky bugs, chase this great me! Can you catch up?!"
Aramaki laughed wildly, looking up amidst the layers of boiling Air Current.
At the same time, he crashed through countless Insect Swarm that tried to block his path.
He was like a Sharp Blade, quickly cutting through the 'Black Clouds' in front of him.
It also left the Hyuga Clan Ninja further ahead staring with wide eyes.
The Gap between the Taijutsu Ninja they knew and the Aramaki 'before their eyes' was too large.
Because at this time, Konoha still treated the Eight Gates Formation as a strictly restricted Forbidden Technique.
Only Might Duy, who had obtained the Method from somewhere unknown, was secretly doing Cultivation it.
Unlike in the 'Canon', after the Fourth Great Ninja War.
Konoha seemed to have opened up the Training Restrictions for the Eight Gates Formation to a certain extent.
Creating a Taijutsu Force where everyone could at least open the Third Gate.
And then led by Rock Lee, they would perform a Martial Arts version of Joint Ninjutsu.
Which was the so-called 'Crane Wing Formation'.
They even used it to split the Meteorite formed from Moon Fragments in half.
"What should we do? Should we go up and intercept him?"
A Chunin from the Inuzuka Clan stroked the Ninja Dog beneath him, which had also become Nervousness, and looked at the Jonin from the Hyuga Clan who was the Captain.
"No, our Mission does not include interception, and we can't stop him anyway. Avoid him first, then transmit his Position back!"
His words immediately made the others breathe a sigh of relief.
Even the usually arrogant Ninja of the Uchiha Clan didn't raise any objections.
This was the case not only for their Squad but for most of the Squad nearby.
Only a small portion of Team composed of Civilian Ninja.
While shouting the Hot Blood Slogan of 'For Konoha' and 'For the Will of Fire'.
Fear blocked Aramaki's path, using various Ninjutsu to launch Attack.
"Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique!"
"Wind Release: Great Breakthrough!"
"Lightning Water Dragon Bullet Technique!"
Facing the various Fire Release, Earth Release, and even Lightning Release and Water Release Joint Ninjutsu that came at him.
Aramaki, who was charging at high Speed, showed Expression on his face and didn't even bother to dodge.
"Get lost!!"
A furious roar turned into a Sound Wave that swept across the entire field.
The next moment.
Aramaki's entire Body pressed against the thick Air Current.
Like a raging Brute Beast, he directly blasted away the Konoha Ninja blocking his path, along with the Ninjutsu they used.
Aramaki's Speed exceeded these Ninja's expectations.
Some of them had already prepared to use the Substitution Jutsu or Body Flicker Technique.
But their Body's Reaction speed couldn't keep up with their Brain's Thought speed.
Just a moment ago, they felt there was still some Distance between them.
The next moment, their world was spinning or their vision went black.
Only a few Jonin with decent Strength were lucky enough to escape.
Watching Aramaki's Figure continue to rush towards Konoha with cold sweat dripping down their faces.
"Water Release: Great Exploding Water Colliding Wave!!!"
On the other side, Aramaki suddenly saw a Super Tsunami of enormous Scale, submerging everything in its path, rolling towards him.
"Tch, is it that guy again?"
"Why don't you learn your lesson? I've already told you that no matter how much water there is, it's useless!"
Aramaki immediately stopped his steps and slammed his Palms forcefully onto the Ground in front of him.
"Waterproof Forest!"
[Rumble]
Instantly, tall Yarukiman Mangroves shot up from the Earth.
At the same time, circle after circle of Bubble secreted from their Tree Trunk.
Suddenly.
The Natural Disaster-like Super Tsunami collided head-on with the line of Yarukiman Mangrove Forest.
An earth-shattering Sound exploded, and surging Sea Waves shot up into the sky.
But ultimately, they failed to shake the Bubble of the Yarukiman Mangroves.
However, Senju Tobirama's side was only trying to create a favorable Environment for their side.
That's why he did Team Up with forty-seven Jonin skilled in Water Release, including the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, to jointly cast the jutsu.
And their Offensive was not over yet.
"Let's go together!"
Senju Tobirama, holding the 'Raijin Sword' that Aramaki had once taken and was later recovered by Konoha Ninja on the Battlefield, charged out from the Front Line.
"Alright!"
Raiga Kurosuki, one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, responded and echoed.
He also transformed into an Afterimage and followed closely.
"Lightning Release: Lightning Fang!"
"Lightning Release: Lightning Feast!"
Instantly, as Senju Tobirama's Raijin Sword and Raiga Kurosuki's Kiba were inserted into the Water.
Large amounts of golden-yellow Electro surged along the water waves towards the Yarukiman Mangrove Forest.
Based on the Intelligence obtained during the previous Combat.
Senju Tobirama saw that Aramaki's 'Waterproof Forest' could truly only waterproof.
As expected.
Under the Bombardment of countless Lightning combined with Water.
Whether it was the Bubble or the Yarukiman Mangroves, they all exploded and shattered.
Meanwhile.
Juzo Biwa, Fuguki Suikazan, Kushimaru Kuriarare, Jinin Akebino, Jinpachi Munashi, and others, wielding their Ninja Sword with various Special Ability, flew past Senju Tobirama and Raiga Kurosuki.
Behind them were the scattered Hidden Mist Jonin.
But the ten Jonin from Konoha remained.
Setting up an Alert Zone around Senju Tobirama and Raiga Kurosuki.
"You cover me!"
Juzo Biwa, holding the Kubikiribocho in one hand, took the lead.
"Otherworld Bastard, watch me chop off your Head!!"
Juzo Biwa jumped forcefully off the water surface, leaping high into Mid-air.
At the same time, he switched to holding the Sword Hilt with both hands.
Chakra also rapidly did Coating on the thick, long Blade.
"Huh?"
Aramaki, standing on a Mangrove tree, looked at the incoming Kubikiribocho with a playful Expression.
The next moment.
His Right Fist, with a 'buzz', instantly became coated in Black (Haki).
He swung it out!
To everyone's astonished Gaze, the Kubikiribocho was instantly broken with overwhelming force.
That long half of the Blade.
After spinning dozens of times in the Air, it fell into the deep water below.
But Aramaki's Fist suddenly transformed into a wide Palm.
In the instant Juzo Biwa, spitting Blood, was about to be blasted away by the Fist Force, Aramaki, with an Unimaginable Hand Speed, grabbed him by the Neck.
This astonishing scene caused the surrounding Hidden Mist Ninja, including Fuguki Suikazan and Kushimaru Kuriarare, to instinctively stop their Actions.
Aramaki, however, ignored everyone.
He pulled Juzo Biwa's face close to his own and sneered:
"You, who are so weak, where did you get the Courage to charge forward first?"
"You..."
Juzo Biwa, struggling for Breathing and his Expression flushed red, was about to say something.
But his Body trembled violently amidst a series of 'thudding' Muffled Sound.
One after another, Sharp Wood Spikes, carrying bright red Bloody water, burst out of his Body.
[Bang!]
Aramaki lightly released his Hand.
Allowing Juzo Biwa's broken Corpse to fall into the Water, creating a high Water Spray.
A pair of cruel and terrifying Gaze slowly did Scan over the Expression of the other 'Ninja Sword' wielders.
"Next... who?"
(End of Chapter)