Elsewhere, in the Land of Lightning, where Naruto's original body was located.
Kakuzu and Hidan's pupils suddenly contracted when they heard the name "Naruto Uzumaki."
The blond youth before them, who looked no more than thirteen or fourteen, was actually the Fifth Hokage who had repeatedly thwarted Akatsuki's plans?!
"You're Naruto Uzumaki?" Hidan was the first to react. A wildly ecstatic, twisted grin spread across his face as he licked his lips. "I never thought you'd come knocking on our door yourself. I'm not afraid of you. Lord Jashin will definitely love a sacrifice like you!"
Kakuzu was far more cautious. His eyes remained fixed on Naruto as he said in a low voice, "You dared to appear before us alone? It seems the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki is not only powerful, but quite bold as well."
As he spoke, the Earth Grudge Fear within his body finished preparing, and the four masked creatures stood ready to strike.
Despite the hostility of the two men, Naruto's expression remained calm. "I alone am enough to deal with you..."
In one of his past cycles, Naruto had even fought the entire Akatsuki by himself. Naturally, he did not think much of the Immortal Duo.
"Arrogant!"
Unable to hold himself back any longer, Hidan swung his massive scythe and charged forward.
Faced with Hidan's powerful slash, Naruto did not even move his feet. He merely tilted his body slightly, and the blade passed before his chest by the tiniest margin.
At the instant the scythe swept past and stirred the wind, Naruto saw the triumphant delight in Hidan's eyes.
It was a feint meant to obtain his blood and carry out the subsequent Jashin ritual.
Unfortunately...
Naruto knew every member of Akatsuki's fighting style far too well.
The moment Hidan paused slightly after missing his