"I don't need your help."
The moment the words left his mouth, Sasuke seemed to think of something and stopped himself from continuing.
When it came to revenge, he didn't want to rely on anyone. He had long since sworn silently that he would deal with Itachi Uchiha himself!
But then again, Itachi wouldn't simply wait alone for Sasuke to come for him. He would certainly have companions by his side, and none of the S-rank wanted criminals recruited by the Dark Dawn were pushovers. So it was still necessary to borrow the organization's strength to intercept Itachi's companions and create an opportunity for Sasuke to fight Itachi one-on-one.
Sasuke asked uneasily, "What do you need my chakra for?"
"Just for some research!" Shinji shrugged, putting on a businesslike expression. "The chakra of every Mangekyō Uchiha is worth studying, and yours is no exception. But you don't need to worry too much. I'll only extract some chakra. It won't put too much strain on your body."
Sasuke stared at Shinji. "I've already joined you! A, you should be able to tell me your true identity now, right?"
"Not yet!" After a pause, Shinji explained, "This isn't directed at you. Every member who joins us has the right to protect their privacy. I won't tell you anyone else's identity, but likewise, I won't reveal your identity to anyone else."
"All right!"
Sasuke nodded.
The members of the Akatsuki Organization he had joined all wore hoods and masks, so he didn't doubt Shinji's words. Besides, the protection of his privacy gave him a faint sense of security.
After all, he was still a Konoha Ninja!
Although he could abandon everything, including the village, for revenge, if he had a choice, he still didn't want to go so far as to betray the