Chapter 402

Akatsuki, assemble!

(I drank yesterday, and I haven't worked out Orochimaru's part properly yet, so I'll write Akatsuki's plot first.)

A week later, according to Zetsu's intel, every member of Akatsuki rushed toward Takigakure from various places, including the newly joined Jade Maiden of Akatsuki—Sasori.

Of course, Sasori was only there to watch the show, to see whether Akatsuki's strength was worth him joining. Part of it was also distrust—on his side and on Akatsuki's side alike.

"Lord Kakuzu, is it really fine? Isn't that your former village?"

On a road leading toward Takigakure, Meichuan's voice sounded with a touch of concern. Of course, he was only saying it that way. His expression did not show the slightest bit of concern; rather than concern, it was more like teasing.

Kakuzu glanced at Meichuan. After being teammates for so long, he knew what this guy was thinking.

"I defected after killing all of Takigakure's higher-ups. Do you think I'd pity them? The weak don't need pity, nor are they worthy of being pitied! Also, don't overthink it. Mine is a secret technique, not a bloodline limit. They lost it long ago too, so sacrificing them won't get you anything."

"Tsk, how heartbreaking. Lord Kakuzu actually distrusts me this much. I was purely concerned about you, and sacrifices are only to show respect to Lord Jashin! I had no other thoughts! Lord Kakuzu, you can't just slander an innocent man out of thin air!"

"Cut the crap. Move!"

"What? Lord Kakuzu, you were clearly the one who said more just now, weren't you? Why are you now—mmph. Mmmph!"

Halfway through Meichuan's words, the black threads surging out of Kakuzu's body sealed his mouth, making him unable to speak.

After sealing Meichuan's mouth, Kakuzu immediately felt the world become much quieter. This teammate