The Enemy at the Gates (Part One)

"Uchiha Itachi—"

Konan flew into a rage and immediately increased her chakra output.

The paper blades shot forward, instantly smashing through the earthen wall Jiraiya had left behind before streaking toward the orange-red half-body giant behind it.

However, before the paper blades could reach it, the half-body giant suddenly shattered and vanished before everyone's eyes.

Countless blades pierced through, instantly turning Uchiha Itachi into a sieve.

"Forgive my selfishness, Sasuke..."

Having exhausted his last shred of strength, Itachi saw a familiar face flash through his mind before slowly collapsing.

Blood covered the ground. The Uchiha traitor who bore the name of clan exterminator stopped breathing.

"Oh my~ What a pity. Jiraiya actually managed to escape!" Black Zetsu emerged from underground and stood beside Nagato, sighing nonstop.

"Cough, cough, cough..."

Nagato covered his mouth and coughed lightly before slowly saying, "Although his person is gone, he left behind his blood."

"With that blood, it will be enough for us to open the gates of Mount Myōboku!"

With that, he gave Konan a meaningful glance.

Konan immediately ordered White Zetsu to collect the blood that had dripped from Jiraiya.

After sweeping his eyes over the desolate surroundings, Black Zetsu asked, "What are you planning to do next, Nagato?"

"Even with Jiraiya and Itachi joining forces, you had trouble coping. Once the Shinobi Alliance reaches the city walls and numerous powerful fighters join forces, you won't stand a chance!"

Nagato gave him a deep look before saying, "I don't need you to remind me. I know what to do!"

He had originally planned to test the alliance's strength himself, but after fighting Jiraiya and Uchiha Itachi, he finally realized that he had overestimated himself and underestimated the Shinobi Alliance.

"Bring that to me!" After letting out a deep sigh, he gazed at the