Turning the Tables

In terms of presence, Nawaki, a bona fide Kage-level powerhouse, far surpassed Nagato. Nagato's aura was instantly scattered, and everyone present felt their bodies grow lighter.

Nawaki released his aura only briefly before withdrawing it, without affecting anyone else nearby. This showed just how superb his control was.

Reminded by Nawaki, Nagato quickly suppressed the hatred in his heart and apologized to everyone around him. "Sorry, everyone. Whenever I think about how Hanzo plotted to have my grandfather killed, I lose control of my emotions."

"No need to apologize, Nagato. One day, we'll help you avenge him!" Yahiko had finally calmed down. "Right now, the most important question is how we should face this crisis!"

Hearing this, the Akatsuki members first nodded understandingly at Nagato, then frowned as they began to think.

Now that the Akatsuki had been exposed and caught the attention of two major figures, Hanzo and Danzo, everyone felt immense pressure. As Nawaki had said, the Akatsuki was still far too weak. They could not contend with either side alone, much less the two joining forces.

Moreover, the demigod Hanzo was renowned throughout the Land of Rain, a legendary powerhouse. The ninjas of the Land of Rain present had all grown up listening to his stories. Now that they learned they would have to face him as an enemy, they naturally felt tremendous pressure. Before any battle had even begun, their earlier pride had already been thrown to the winds.

"Nawaki-oniichan! You must have a way, right?" Seeing everyone remain silent, Konan clung to Nawaki's arm and shook it coquettishly as she asked.

At Konan's words, everyone's eyes lit up. Right—they had Skywalker on their side, the man who had once defeated Hanzo head-on. They all looked at Nawaki expectantly.

Nawaki swept his gaze across the crowd