"So Hidan, that idiot who knew nothing but shouting, really did run into an unbreakable wall. But Shengu Xuan, don't think killing that worthless fool gives you the right to act arrogant before me. I, Kakuzu, will take your head today!" Kakuzu's utterly cold voice, seemingly rising from the depths of hell, echoed across the scorched wilderness.
As Kakuzu tore off his Akatsuki cloak, his horrifying true form was fully exposed before everyone. His back, arms, and even his chest were densely covered in Earth Grudge Fear tendrils resembling black blood vessels. Four monsters formed from black tendrils, each wearing a different grotesque mask, had completely separated from his body. Like four savage killing machines, they hovered around him.
"A Fire Release mask monster, a Wind Release mask monster, a Lightning Release mask monster, a Water Release mask monster... plus his own Earth Release." Watching from a distance, Asuma instantly turned deathly pale. "This guy actually possesses all five chakra natures! And every mask monster is giving off terrifying chakra fluctuations no weaker than a Jonin's! Shengu, be extremely careful. This old monster has lived for who knows how many years!"
Despite Asuma's warning, Shengu Xuan remained as languid and unconcerned as ever, his hands tucked into his pockets. Looking at the flailing mask monsters, he curled his lips into an utterly mocking sneer.
"What good is living a long time? Does that make you strong? By that logic, the turtles in the sewers would be invincible in the Shinobi World." Shengu Xuan's retort was vicious. "Sewing other people's hearts onto yourself, turning yourself into some disgusting patchwork toy. You think those few shabby masks can earn you the bounty on my head?"
"Arrogant brat! Die! Composite Ninjutsu: Masked Blast!"
Thoroughly enraged by Shengu Xuan's cutting words, Kakuzu swiftly formed