126 Ch-126 Jiryoku enter Sage Mode.

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Not only Onoki held this concern, but all the Kages gathered here shared the same foreboding apprehension as Onoki. The mere thought of challenging Asura or Jiryoku to a one-on-one duel was too overwhelming to contemplate. Their collective confidence eroded to such an extent that they couldn't even envision the possibility of their combined ninja forces prevailing over Jiryoku.

After Asura had completed the monumental task of destroying the menacing meteor, his focus shifted decisively towards the escaping Jiryoku. Jiryoku, who had been desperately evading the relentless pursuit of the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' while accumulating 'Natural Chakra,' now faced an imminent confrontation with Asura. In an instant, as Asura's gaze locked onto Jiryoku, the latter underwent a remarkable transition into the revered 'Sage Mode.'

With the onset of 'Sage Mode,' Jiryoku underwent a profound transformation. Most notably, his appearance underwent significant changes. The skin beneath his eyes took on a vibrant shade of green, and a distinct green hexagonal mark appeared on his forehead, signifying the initiation of this powerful state.

As Asura locked eyes with Jiryoku, he immediately recognized the profound transformation that had taken hold of him – the manifestation of 'Sage Mode.' However, it wasn't solely a visual observation that clued Asura in; his heightened perception allowed him to sense the exquisite harmony between the 'Natural Chakra' and the Chakra residing within Jiryoku. This perfect union indicated that Jiryoku was not likely to lose his 'Sage Mode' in the immediate future; he appeared poised to maintain this heightened state for an extended period. Asura found himself unable to provide an exact prognosis regarding the duration of Jiryoku's 'Sage Mode.'

To assess the extent of Jiryoku's newfound strength, Asura assumed control of the two 'Truth-Seeking Balls,' which had taken on the shape of razor-sharp kunai. With a skilled and practiced touch, he fused both 'Truth-Seeking Balls' into a single, imposing shuriken of considerable size. This massive shuriken, propelled at astonishing speed, raced toward Jiryoku, who met it with an air of unshakable serenity.

As Jiryoku unsheathed his sword, it became evident that the blade was no ordinary weapon; it was imbued with the formidable power of 'Armament Haki.'

Jiryoku's sword wasn't merely adorned with the formidable 'Armament Haki: Emission'; it also bore the awe-inspiring 'Conqueror's Haki.' What's more, it was imbued with 'Natural Chakra,' resulting in a triumvirate of potent enhancements. Empowered by these three formidable buffs, Jiryoku wasted no time and unleashed a swift, dynamic swing towards the rapidly approaching 'Truth-Seeking Ball,' which had taken on the form of a menacing shuriken. Remarkably, this offensive maneuver unfolded in the blink of an eye, demonstrating Jiryoku's remarkable prowess and swift decision-making.

In the next instant, Jiryoku's sword, bolstered by 'Armament Haki: Emission' and 'Conqueror's Haki,' made contact with the 'Truth-Seeking Ball.' Despite the slight gap between them, the collision generated a tremendous tumult, sending shockwaves rippling through the surroundings. The sheer force of their encounter left an imposing crater etched into the earth below.

This clash between Jiryoku's empowered sword and the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' was a brief but impactful exchange. Shortly thereafter, it became evident that the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' found itself at a distinct disadvantage, rapidly retreating under the overwhelming might of Jiryoku's assault. In this thrilling face-off between Jiryoku and the 'Truth-Seeking Ball,' Jiryoku emerged as the undisputed victor, showcasing his mastery of these extraordinary powers.

Asura's response to witnessing Jiryoku effortlessly repel the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' was one of surprise, though not astonishment. It fell well within his expectations, as had Jiryoku failed to counter the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' even in his 'Sage Mode,' it would have been truly remarkable.

Following Jiryoku's successful repulsion of the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' in the form of a shuriken, Asura promptly regained control over the separated orbs, returning them to their original dual configuration. The two 'Truth-Seeking Balls' resumed their positions on Asura's back, poised for the next strategic maneuver.

Jiryoku wasted no time in asserting his presence, reappearing directly in front of Asura. This time, his speed had reached an entirely new level, surpassing even Asura's ability to easily track his movements.

Sensing the heightened level of danger, Asura opted not to take any unnecessary risks. He assumed direct control over all the 'Truth-Seeking Balls,' weaving them into a protective, obsidian-hued sphere that enveloped his entire body. This black, spherical construct served as an impenetrable defensive barrier, fortifying Asura against Jiryoku's impending assault.

Jiryoku, with his sword now radiating a regal shade of purple, courtesy of the potent 'Armament Haki,' launched an aggressive assault on the formidable black sphere encasing Asura. It was a spectacle to behold, an irresistible force meeting an unyielding defense.

Nevertheless, Jiryoku's sword possessed not only 'Armament Haki' but also a distinctive attribute. Above the blade, a shroud of 'Natural Chakra' enveloped the weapon. This 'Natural Chakra' possessed a unique potency that made it the sole effective countermeasure against the resilient 'Truth-Seeking Ball.'

As Jiryoku's sword made contact with the protective barrier formed by the 'Truth-Seeking Ball,' it left visible traces of its power, causing noticeable cracks to appear on the surface. Despite the formidable effort, Jiryoku's assault fell short of completely breaching the defensive shield with a single strike.

Just as Jiryoku prepared to continue his relentless assault on the 'Truth-Seeking Ball' barrier, an unexpected interruption occurred. Multiple colossal wooden fists, summoned by the enormous wooden giant, materialized from various directions, converging upon Jiryoku. Faced with this unforeseen and unrelenting attack, Jiryoku had no choice but to swiftly strategize a retreat.

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