Akatsuki in Action

Amid the swirling yellow sands, two men wearing conical hats and black robes patterned with red clouds walked forward slowly.

In the distance, the outline of Sunagakure flickered in and out of view.

Sasori suddenly stopped and swiftly formed several hand seals.

Deidara asked, "Brother Sasori, what are you doing?"

"I have a subordinate in Sunagakure. I'm undoing the Ninjutsu now so he can clear a path for us."

"I see."

Sasori looked at the small bag in Deidara's hand and said, "Will that little amount be enough?"

"Relax, this is plenty. I brought my trump card, after all. Our opponent is the One-Tail Jinchuriki."

When the two reached Sunagakure's entrance, a man covered in blood was waiting for them.

Sasori said, "You've worked hard, Yura. Do you remember who I am now?"

Yura immediately dropped to one knee. "Of course, Lord Sasori."

"Good. Since your memories have returned, you are still my loyal subordinate."

"Of course. Please follow me, Lord Sasori."

Yura, one of Sunagakure's higher-ups, led the two into the village. Corpses lay scattered everywhere along the way.

After passing through the long passageway, the three stood atop a flight of stone steps, and the full expanse of Sunagakure unfolded before them.

Deidara tossed a small white bird onto the ground. After forming hand seals, the bird immediately expanded into a giant bird.

"Brother Sasori, just watch from here, yeah."

After jumping onto the bird's back, Deidara turned around and said, "Well, Brother? Isn't my artistic design outstanding?"

Sasori said impatiently, "Don't keep me waiting too long, Deidara!"

"Tch, I know."

The giant bird lightly flapped its wings, whipping up a fierce gale as it shot into the sky.

Konoha.

Walking through the familiar streets, Naruto looked at the shops on both sides, some of which now