Just as Asuma died, Konoha's support squad arrived in a rush.
Kakuzu and Hidan knew that if they kept fighting, they would only end up surrounded by reinforcements. Without the slightest hesitation, they abandoned the fight, turned, and swiftly retreated from the forest.
Watching the brutal outcome on the Sky Screen, the entire Shinobi World erupted in an uproar, everyone shaken to the core.
"That's terrifying. Hidan's ability is practically unbeatable!"
"He's immortal himself, and he can transfer any damage he takes to his enemy. That practically means he can kill anyone he wants!"
"When you think about it, that's exactly right. As long as Hidan gets the blood of any Kage from the Five Great Hidden Villages and activates his curse, no one could survive a fatal wound like having their heart pierced. Even a Kage would be doomed."
"No, we absolutely can't let him roam free. We have to find a chance to capture Hidan alive and thoroughly investigate how the Evil God's curse works. If we can replicate that ability, our village's strength could skyrocket!"
The leaders of the various villages quietly discussed countermeasures. Quite a few Anbu spies had already discreetly memorized Hidan's appearance, preparing to seize an opportunity to capture him for research.
Meanwhile, in Konoha's Hokage Office, Hiruzen Sarutobi stared fixedly at the fallen Asuma on the Sky Screen. His entire face creased, his expression grim.
But then he reminded himself that this was only a scene from the future. It would be several years before it happened, and Asuma was still alive and well now.
He let out a long breath, his tense shoulders relaxing.
"Thank goodness. It's only something from the future. Now I finally know who Asuma will fall to. If we take precautions in advance, we might be able to