Pain's Invitation

Simu gave a wry smile. "To be precise, both their bodies and souls were willingly offered to Lord Jashin."

"And let me correct you—this is one of Lord Jashin's rituals, and I am, at most, merely Lord Jashin's."

"A tool, that is all."

Still smiling, Simu looked directly into those pale violet eyes across from him.

Though he did not know what kind of Kekkei Genkai this was, Simu could sense the terrifying power contained within those eyes.

The powerful repulsive force displayed just now alone had been enough to surprise him.

But there were no unsolvable abilities in this world. No matter how powerful an ability was, it would surely have flaws and weaknesses.

"Another so-called god."

Pain's brows finally furrowed slightly.

Ever since entering this small town, the name of this god had been what he heard most often.

Konan, standing beside him, looked equally grim. Even after experiencing countless brutal battles, she still could not accept that rotten stench which seemed to originate from the soul.

Suppressing her disgust, she said to Pain, "Don't forget why we came here."

Pain nodded and spoke to Simu. "My name is Pain, and this is my companion, Konan."

"We came here to recruit Mr. Simu and Mr. Hidan into Akatsuki."

"Akatsuki?"

Simu raised an eyebrow in surprise.

His insects had never heard that name from any of the people nearby.

And these two had appeared very abruptly, which meant they had the ability to evade the insects' reconnaissance.

Was it because of those eyes?

Simu was especially concerned about Pain's powerful eyes.

"That's right."

Seeing that Simu did not immediately object, Pain explained.

"Akatsuki is a powerful organization made up of rogue ninja from various villages. Once you join, the organization will provide you with protection. In exchange, your task