Land of Rivers.
In the dense forest, Kakashi, Naruto, Yakumo, and Sakura raced through the massive, lush branches, startling countless birds into flight.
According to the intelligence sent by the eight Ninja Dogs, they would reach their destination in another half day!
As they passed through the thick forest, shock suddenly flashed through Kakashi's right eye.
Ahead of them stood a man in a black cloak patterned with red clouds, his expression blank as he blocked their path.
"That outfit... could it be?"
Sakura instinctively clenched her fists. Under her Strength of a Hundred, even the air seemed to burst in her grip, letting out a low whine.
On the way here, Kakashi had already told her some information about Akatsuki, so she immediately recognized where the man came from. As for his identity, she turned to Kakashi.
Though Kakashi's face was concealed by his mask, his exposed right eye was exceptionally grave.
"You're Uchiha Itachi!"
Naruto stared sharply at the other man. "I remember you!"
More than two years ago, when he had been training with Jiraiya, he had encountered this man. He had nearly had his arm and thigh chopped off by Uchiha Itachi's companion. If Houka had not appeared, Akatsuki would likely have captured him already.
Sakura's expression changed dramatically upon hearing that name.
"This person is Uchiha Itachi?"
As Sasuke's die-hard fan, Sakura naturally remembered that name clearly.
"Don't look directly into his eyes. It's too dangerous!"
Having experienced it himself, Kakashi had long learned the power of Tsukuyomi, and he immediately shouted a stern warning to Naruto and the others.
"But how are we supposed to fight like that?" Naruto shouted.
"Stand to the side. I'll deal with this guy first." Kakashi lifted his Ninja Headband, revealing the Three-Tomoe Sharingan in his left eye.
After