Kakuzu charged the moment he finished speaking.
At the same time, Shikamaru kicked Hidan in the head and retreated.
Thud!
Hidan's head snapped back. He staggered two steps backward, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth.
"Damn it!"
Hidan roared.
"You've got some skill! You little brat from Konoha, you've really pissed me off!"
Hidan charged again, only to be kicked straight back the next instant.
"Hidan! Get out of the way!"
Kakuzu understood the situation at once. Shikamaru's taijutsu was too strong. Beating him with taijutsu was impossible-but taijutsu was all Shikamaru had.
Four black Earth Grudge Fear figures swiftly spread out into position. The Fire Release and Wind Release cores stood to either side, while the Lightning Release and Water Release cores hovered in midair. They surrounded Shikamaru from four directions, sealing off a broad stretch of space around him.
"You do have the advantage one-on-one."
Kakuzu stared at Shikamaru, whose entire body was covered in shadows, his voice cold and hoarse.
"But don't forget-there are two of us!"
As soon as he finished speaking, Kakuzu gave the order, and the Earth Grudge Fear constructs immediately unleashed their ninjutsu.
"Fire Release: Overheated Flame Charge!"
A blazing pillar of fire erupted from the Fire Release construct's mouth. Thick flames carrying enough heat to scorch everything rushed straight at Shikamaru.
High overhead, the Wind Release construct unleashed its ninjutsu at the same time:
"Wind Release: Severing Air Blade!"
Countless sharp wind blades swept the flames outward, creating a scorching storm that squeezed Shikamaru's room to maneuver.
The Water Release construct on the left followed close behind:
"Water Release: Wild Water Wave!"
Rushing water washed over the muddy ground, soaking the soil beneath Shikamaru's feet until it was slippery and interfering with his footing.
On the right, lightning crackled wildly