Empire, Imperial Palace.
"No matter."
"If I can't go through, there are plenty of people in the Empire who can."
A moment later.
A string of names flashed through Chiba's mind.
Shisui Uchiha, Itachi Uchiha, Kakashi Hatake, Might Guy...
Their normal combat strength happened to be capped at Peak Kage Level, perfectly meeting the Teleportation Gate's restrictions.
But once they crossed that gate.
And arrived in the Parallel World.
They could activate Sage Mode or use the Eight Inner Gates.
Their combat strength would instantly soar to Super Kage Level, perhaps even rivaling humanoid natural disasters.
That fragile passage had no way to control the power they unleashed after crossing over.
"Convey my decree."
"Immediately convene the Empire's highest council!"
Chiba issued the order.
The entire Imperial Capital sprang into action at once, countless figures racing toward the Imperial Palace.
Half an hour later.
Imperial Palace, Supreme Council Hall.
The hall was brightly lit, its atmosphere solemn and grave.
The enormous round table was filled with the Empire's powerful ministers.
Fugaku Uchiha wore magnificent black robes, his expression calm and steady.
Hyuga Hiashi sat upright as a pine, carrying an imposing aura without even showing anger.
Shikaku Nara, Yamanaka Inoichi, and Akimichi Choza sat side by side, their expressions composed.
Kakashi Hatake wore the Anbu Minister's mask and stood quietly to one side.
Shisui Uchiha, Itachi Uchiha, and other top young powerhouses stood in rows along both sides.
The four giant screens at the front of the hall lit up.
The highest officials of the four provinces of Wind, Water, Earth, and Lightning connected simultaneously.
Rasa rested his chin on his interlaced hands.
Mei Terumi slightly parted her red lips, looking languid.
Ōnoki floated in the air, a trace of confusion in his eyes.
A, meanwhile, was broad-faced and brimming