Hyuga Kei bid farewell to the excited Deidara, returned to the Sound Village, and found Sasuke still diligently practicing Wood Release Ninjutsu.
"Senior, you were looking for me?" Seeing Hyuga Kei arrive, Sasuke quickly stepped forward.
Hyuga Kei said, "Your strength has reached a bottleneck. Only battle can possibly help you improve further. I intend to introduce you to Akatsuki and have you take Itachi's place."
The moment Sasuke heard that he would be taking Itachi's place, his eyes widened, and he was overwhelmed with excitement. Did that mean his senior had finally acknowledged him?
"That's great."
Hyuga Kei said sternly, "Once you join Akatsuki, everyone there will be Itachi's former colleagues. You will represent Itachi's honor. You must never let your emotions control you so easily again."
Hearing Hyuga Kei's warning, Sasuke felt warmth rise in his heart. He nodded solemnly. "I definitely won't disgrace my brother."
"Good. Remember those words." Hyuga Kei took out Itachi's Suzaku Ring and handed it to Sasuke.
"Consider this one of Itachi's belongings. I'm giving it to you now. Don't tarnish Itachi's name."
Sasuke solemnly accepted the Suzaku Ring and put it on his finger, determination and resolve shining in his eyes.
Hyuga Kei looked at Sasuke and gave a slight nod before continuing, "None of Akatsuki's members are simple. Be prepared to deal with every possible situation."
Sasuke clenched his teeth. "I know. I'll make them acknowledge me."
Hyuga Kei brought Sasuke to one of Akatsuki Organization's secret bases. When the other members saw Sasuke, their eyes revealed a range of reactions.
"This is Itachi's younger brother, Second Pillar. From now on, he will take Itachi's place and continue carrying out missions with everyone."
Kisame was the first to step forward. He looked Sasuke up and down, then sneered. "Ha! So this