5
"Damn it!" Veins bulged at Xun Uchiha's temples as rage exploded in his chest.
"Let's start over one more time."
The seawater flowed backward again, and the scene froze at its starting point.
This time, Xun Uchiha did more than shout. He sprang into motion, leaping straight off the Raised Platform. Internal Force from the fourth level of the God King Vajra Technique surged wildly through his body, gathering in his right fist.
"Hah!"
He unleashed a punch, driving surging water and force through the sea's surface like a cannonball and striking the Electric Eel squarely.
Thud!
With a muffled impact, the Electric Eel's enormous body shuddered. Then it twisted nimbly and turned around. When it recognized Xun Uchiha, its tense, aggressive posture instantly dissolved, and the electricity coursing around it became gentle and lively. It circled him joyfully, as though seeking affection and showing off at the same time.
The truth became clear at that moment: it had not been trying to throw its life away. After searching the city's ruins in vain, it had mistakenly assumed that the terrifying beast had swallowed Xun Uchiha, and charged recklessly forward to rescue him.
Seeing that familiar, loyal face, Xun Uchiha felt warmth bloom in his heart. The frustration built up by his helplessness instantly dissipated. He stroked the Electric Eel's cold scales, his voice gentler than ever. "You silly thing... don't provoke it. We're not strong enough yet."
After soothing his agitated old companion, Xun Uchiha quickly returned to the Raised Platform and slipped into the Skeleton Throne's shadow. His gaze fixed on the War Halberd, which radiated an ominous aura.
The instant his fingertips touched the cold metal-
Buzz!
A spine-chilling wave of vibration erupted wildly from the War Halberd. It was not a simple physical vibration, but