No matter how formidable the opponent, Ashveil's Conqueror's Haki, empowered by the Phoenix's ability, would never be exhausted. This made him perfectly suited to face the looming great war. Overall, Ashveil was quite satisfied.
The only minor drawback was that, despite the immense growth in his Conqueror's Haki, he had yet to unlock Golden Conqueror's Haki. Considering its overwhelming potential, this was understandable. Once unlocked, it would elevate his Haki to an entirely new stage. Even in the Third Great War, he would face no fear.
"That's expected," Ashveil thought, noting that the system had not activated such a terrifying feature yet.
"Since the Eight-Tails has been dealt with, the next target is the Nine-Tails," Ashveil said softly, glancing at his system panel and moving toward the others.
Deidara's expression lit up with excitement. This was Akatsuki's ultimate goal, and he hadn't anticipated completing it so smoothly. While his own role had been minimal, he felt a sense of pride. Perhaps even facing Uchiha Itachi, he could hold confidence.
After sealing the Eight-Tails, the team boarded Deidara's flying dragon, heading toward Akatsuki's stronghold. Along the way, Tobi remained lively and animated.
"Hahaha! Ashveil-senpai, your Conqueror's Haki was truly terrifying," Tobi exclaimed. "I've never witnessed anything like it. It has truly opened my eyes!"
Tobi regarded Ashveil almost like an idol. But Ashveil knew better. The seemingly harmless young man before him was, in truth, Akatsuki's true leader. Tobi's behavior was purely an act, one that Ashveil tolerated — for now.
Ashveil's concern lay elsewhere: he had already captured so many Tailed Beasts. The next target was the Nine-Tails. Success here would make the upcoming great war one-sided, something he did not desire. He needed the challenge for experience, to gauge his true strength among the world's most formidable beings.
"Alright, stop talking. Let's quickly transport the Eight-Tails back to the stronghold. I'm ready to capture the next Tailed Beast," Ashveil said calmly.
Deidara's admiration was evident. Only Ashveil could speak so casually about capturing the Nine-Tails, a task even the current Kage-level elites would hesitate to attempt.
Tobi, outwardly admiring, secretly considered Ashveil's capabilities. Beneath his mask, Obito observed silently. Though he still hadn't uncovered Ashveil's true origins, one fact was clear: Ashveil had consistently captured Tailed Beasts for him without deceit. Obito's confidence grew — if Ashveil captured the Nine-Tails, the Eye of the Moon Plan could proceed without interference. Obito narrowed his eyes in thought, hoping no unexpected complications would arise.
That night, the giant flying dragon carried the group swiftly toward Akatsuki's stronghold. Using his Search-Search Fruit ability, Ashveil had observed everything from the previous night. He didn't react — his mind was focused on leveling up, preparing for the coming space-time pendulum challenge.
Suddenly, a massive explosion lit the sky.
Boom!
Ashveil frowned and looked down, recognizing the attackers: Might Guy, Lee, Tenten, and Neji from Konoha. Deidara's eyes glinted with mischief. "Hahaha! In that case, I can have some fun," he said with excitement.
Meanwhile, the three Kage of the Sand, Fire, and Earth Countries convened. Tsunade, Gaara, and Kankuro — each a formidable presence — gathered to discuss a single urgent matter: the emergence of Ashveil in Akatsuki.
Tsunade narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing Onoki. "Is this Ashveil truly as terrifying as you claim?" she asked.
Shizune, standing behind Tsunade, was equally surprised. "I've heard of Akatsuki, but your claims seem exaggerated. Can one individual truly oppose an entire nation? And not just any nation, but a power like the Earth Country?"
Onoki coughed lightly, reflecting on his country's recent hardships. "I would like to disbelieve it myself, but it is true. This Ashveil has overcome our entire Earth Country. What's worse, we do not even know his abilities. That is the most frightening part."
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