"Be careful. The Mizukage is heading for Konoha this time. You're the closest, and Konoha may send people to meet her," the mysterious voice said.
"Hahaha! Whoever it is, kill one if one comes, kill both if two come," Hidan said.
Kakuzu said, "Why kill the Mizukage? This doesn't seem to serve our interests."
"Because the Mizukage appears to be planning an alliance with Konoha, and that would harm our greatest interests," Pain said.
"Understood," Kakuzu said. He was highly skilled at calculating profits and losses; all of the Akatsuki Organization's finances were handled by him.
The two soon set off toward Konoha. Kakuzu took out a map and calculated which route the Mizukage would take to Konoha, ultimately choosing the route she was least likely to use.
At that moment, Chen Fan was also preparing to depart from Konoha. Unlike Kakuzu, Chen Fan did not need to make such calculations. The Hidden Mist Village had sent a secret letter containing a route map.
"I'm leaving," Chen Fan said to the few people who had come to see him off.
"Mm! Come back early!" Kurenai said to Chen Fan.
Chen Fan smiled at Kurenai. "Don't worry. I'll be back soon." After saying that, he waved to Kurenai and Haku. Tsunade and Anko were both busy and had no time to see Chen Fan off, though he had already made it up to them last night. Chen Fan took out the map and followed its route toward the Land of Water.
Mei Terumi
(Mei Terumi)
"Lava Style: Lava Monster Jutsu!" The Fifth Mizukage, Mei Terumi, gave a soft cry. The Chakra she expelled from her mouth transformed into highly acidic mucus that swept over the enemies before her.
The enemies had no idea what kind of ninjutsu this was, but they