Hearing Onoki's words, Kankuro's expression mirrored concern. His Sand Country had already suffered from Akatsuki's attacks. Yet, the adversary his nation had faced before was only Deidara. Even that single opponent had captured his Kage, Gaara. Now, the Earth Country was being invaded by three powerhouses: Deidara, Tobi, and Ashveil. One could hardly imagine the devastation, nor the sheer might of Akatsuki.
Tsunade's eyes narrowed. So far, her Fire Country had avoided significant damage, but she knew it was only a matter of time. A deep unease settled over her — she had a distinct premonition that Akatsuki would soon target her nation as well.
"Onoki, I sympathize with your predicament," Tsunade began. "However, we need to understand Ashveil's specific abilities. Without this knowledge, even a united effort might fail against such a powerful man."
Onoki paused for a moment before speaking. Initially, he had intended to keep Ashveil's secrets to himself. But now, faced with the threat of total annihilation, withholding such information would be reckless.
"Very well," Onoki said gravely. "Ashveil's Chakra is unlike any I've encountered. It carries an inherent suppressive and dizzying effect, not tied to any Ninjutsu. This is something I have confirmed firsthand."
The room fell silent. The other Kage exchanged astonished glances. Chakra was a fundamental force in the body; even the God of Shinobi's Chakra did not possess such peculiar traits. To hear that a single individual's energy could destabilize opponents was unprecedented.
"This is extremely troubling," Tsunade murmured, her brow furrowing. "Even a battle of numbers may not be enough to stop Ashveil." She also felt a twinge of worry for Jiraiya, who might face him without fully understanding Ashveil's power.
"Yes," Kankuro said quietly. "That is why only elite ninja can hope to challenge Ashveil."
At that moment, a knock interrupted the meeting. Tsunade frowned. Such interruptions were rare, and the timing was irritating.
"What is it? Do you not see we are discussing matters of utmost importance?" she demanded, rising with authority.
The ninja outside, though intimidated, spoke with urgency. "Reporting, Hokage-sama, this matter concerns Ashveil. It is urgent."
All the leaders in the room stiffened. News involving Ashveil was always significant. Tsunade's eyes narrowed.
"Enter," she commanded.
The intelligence officer hurried in, relaying the latest reports from the Land of Lightning. "That destructive force, Ashveil, has shown unprecedented power. He captured Killer Bee, and neutralized countless elite ninja. Moreover, he possesses the ability to freeze opponents at will. He cannot be underestimated."
The leaders collectively gasped. The Land of Lightning, second only to the Fire Country in overall strength, had been overwhelmed. Even the Eight-Tails, with its immense vitality, had been frozen and captured.
Tsunade masked her concern behind calm words. "I understand the report. You may leave."
Onoki's voice carried a weight of emotion. "Even with elite tactics, capturing Ashveil may not be feasible. He is beyond what we've faced before." He had witnessed the havoc Ashveil wrought in the Earth Country firsthand. Most of the elite forces had been mobilized, yet Ashveil's power remained unmatched.
Tsunade exhaled deeply. "We must form a United Army. Without unity, we risk total devastation."
Kankuro, driven by the desire to avenge his captured brother Gaara, readily agreed. "For the Sand Country and for vengeance, I have no objections."
Onoki, after a moment of hesitation, also consented. "I agree."
Onoki's remark highlighted the remarkable shift: nations historically at odds were now poised to stand together. Tsunade added, "If the ninja of the Land of Lightning join us, our strength will be even greater. Once they arrive, we can finalize our strategy against Ashveil. Our priority must be to eliminate him first — his threat is unparalleled."
Meanwhile, Ashveil's confrontation had already begun. Might Guy, bursting with determination, reacted instantly. Spotting Deidara and the others, he roared, "You must be members of Akatsuki! I am the Leaf's Azure Beast! Prepare to be defeated!"
He leaped forward, his legendary Leaf Hurricane Kick aimed directly at Tobi and his companions.
Deidara barely restrained a smirk. In Akatsuki eyes, even a Kage could be captured. A mere Jonin like Guy seemed laughable.
Hurling a massive clay bomb with precision, Deidara detonated it upon Might Guy. Boom! The force of the explosion tore through the air. Might Guy was caught off guard, blown backward by the immense power.