The Akatsuki Organization Mobilizes in Full!

The Land of Iron.

Outside a money exchange.

Kakuzu walked out of the money exchange with a box of cash and said to Hidan, who was waiting outside, "Let's head back to base first, then set out!"

"Ha! Finally, we can cut loose!"

Hidan grinned, hoisted the Bloody Reaper onto his shoulder, and followed Kakuzu.

In an underground palace.

As Shinnō examined Moryo's body, he said, "This body isn't strong enough. Even with Medical Ninjutsu to maintain it, it'll last only another week at most."

"That's enough!" Moryo replied hoarsely.

The vocal cords in his body had rotted away, so his voice sounded like air leaking from a bellows.

Shinnō asked, "The leader has sent word. Have you made all the arrangements?"

"Of course!" Moryo paused, then looked at Shinnō. "But the leader must keep his promise to me this time!"

Shinnō nodded. "Don't worry. Once we complete the mission, the leader will have me help you devour the Miko."

A stiff smile twisted Moryo's face. "Then let's go!"

By a small lake.

Juzo Biwa, carrying Kubikiribōchō, slowly approached the lakeshore. Itachi sat there, staring at his reflection in the water.

"The leader's orders have come through. We're leaving," Juzo told him.

"Oh!"

Itachi slowly rose to his feet.

"Don't overthink it," Juzo said. "We're only killing people. Isn't that exactly what you and I are good at?"

"I'm not good at killing people," Itachi replied.

Juzo clicked his tongue.

Inside Hiruko's secret laboratory.

Hiruko summoned Ranmaru. "The leader asked me about you, so I reported that you'd completed the ritual."

Ranmaru lowered his head, showing his respect.

Hiruko continued, "After I put in a good word for you, the leader finally agreed to let you join the organization and take Raiga Kurosuki's place as my partner."

"Thank you, sir!"