Ch. 1021One Hundred Thousand White Zetsu
Key Plot Points and Events
- Akatsuki reveals a vast army of 100,000 White Zetsu clones, each with the strength of a Chunin.
- Pain expresses his intention to use these White Zetsu as cannon fodder to tie down mid-to-low-level forces of the Five Great Hidden Villages.
- Kabuto Yakushi, Orochimaru's successor, joins Akatsuki, offering his knowledge of the Impure World Reincarnation technique.
- Pain decides to restart the third part of Akatsuki's plan, using small country ninjas to provoke chaos and incite local battles.
Character Developments
- Pain shows annoyance at Konan's caution and determination to proceed with his plan despite potential risks.
- Konan expresses concern about Kabuto's true intentions and the desecration of the dead involved in his technique.
- Kabuto appears more sinister and cold, with snake-like eyes and scale markings on his cheeks.
Significant Themes
- The theme of power and ambition is highlighted as Pain seeks to use the White Zetsu and small country ninjas to provoke a great war.
- The desecration of the dead and the use of forbidden techniques are explored through Kabuto's involvement with the Impure World Reincarnation.
Character Interactions
- Pain and Konan have a tense interaction, with Konan expressing her reservations about Pain's plan and Kabuto's involvement.
- Pain and Kabuto have a formal introduction, with Pain showing interest in Kabuto's technique but also some disgust.
- The Five Kage receive intelligence about Akatsuki's plans and are shocked by their audacity.