Xia Yan retreated at lightning speed, without the slightest hesitation.
Kakashi was every bit as quick. Perhaps because he had gone through that mission involving Kakuzu with Xia Yan, he had become exceptionally decisive when retreating, too.
The Anbu and Root Shinobi they had not taken with them froze. They had heard Xia Yan and Kakashi's earlier conversation.
But even though they had been mentally prepared, the speed of this retreat still left them somewhat dazed.
Still, they were elite Shinobi, and they belonged to Root and the Anbu, organizations with exceptionally strict and demanding discipline.
They needed no verbal communication. A few exchanged glances were enough for them to make their decision.
Of the mere seven Anbu remaining, four stayed behind, while three immediately chased after Xia Yan and the others.
Every member of Root prepared for battle. Even knowing they were certain to die, they showed not the slightest hesitation.
"You certainly are decisive about running away." Sasori naturally noticed all of this. His voice was hoarse and cold. "As for you, you certainly have courage, but I don't like you."
The Anbu and Root Shinobi said nothing. They merely watched Sasori with cold eyes filled with resolve.
Yet the next moment, Sasori, who had not moved at all, suddenly formed a hand seal. A terrifying surge of chakra erupted from his body.
This movement put every Konoha ninja on high alert, because they knew just how powerful their opponent was.
Yet moments later, they suddenly dropped to their knees, one after another.
Scarlet blood began seeping continuously through the thick masks covering their faces.
"So, you can all die now." Sasori's indifferent voice reached them.
"Once my poison entered your bodies, you were already as good as dead. The timing depends on whether I want you to