A blood-red space.
The sky spread across the heights like a scarlet curtain, while the ground lay in bloodstained darkness.
At this moment, two figures stood facing each other from afar within this space.
Yet the state between them was completely different from their hostile confrontation in the outside world!
Neither held the slightest guard or wariness toward the other. Instead, they seemed more like they were exchanging intelligence and discussing something.
"So Akatsuki has already begun preparing to make a move against the Jinchuriki!?"
Minato wore a calm expression, one hand stroking his chin as he sank into deep thought.
Hearing him, Itachi, standing opposite him, answered calmly.
"Although they have assigned me such a mission for now... I do not believe that is their true objective..."
Upon hearing Itachi's words, Minato looked up, frowning as he asked.
"Why do you say that!?"
Itachi's scarlet eyes narrowed slightly as he spoke slowly.
"Akatsuki's current strength is not enough for them to face the counterattack of the Five Great Ninja Villages. If they exposed their intentions toward the Jinchuriki now, I fear it would be very difficult for them to accomplish their objective!"
Hearing this, Minato's expression grew grave as he said in a low voice.
"But they have already exposed their interest in the Jinchuriki!"
"Didn't your attack on Naruto when you appeared in Konoha this time already leak that information? I think... it was not only you. The other members should also have made moves against the Jinchuriki of the other ninja villages by now!"
"If that is the case... then no matter what, Akatsuki's objective can no longer be concealed!"
After hearing Minato's words, Itachi fell silent for a long while before lifting his head and speaking coldly.
"No... There is still one way!"
Minato froze slightly