Transaction, A Body Capable of Wielding the Rinnegan

In Black Zetsu's view, Obito absorbing the Tailed Beasts now was merely providing nourishment for the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path.

In his plan, once the deal with Orochimaru was complete, he would use the Rinnegan to summon the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path back. Only then would the plan truly begin.

An unfamiliar figure appeared at the border of the Land of Fire.

With light bluish-purple hair tied into a bun, a pale blue paper flower on the right side of her head, and a black cloak patterned with red clouds outlined in white, the newcomer was Konan, who had rushed over from Amegakure.

To avoid being discovered by the guards, Konan did not linger at the border. The instant their attention slipped, her figure flashed as she slipped into the Land of Fire.

Since Konoha was currently dividing its forces for battle, the border defenses had loosened considerably. Under normal circumstances, Konan would have had to put in some effort to infiltrate without a sound.

After entering the Land of Fire, Konan headed straight for Konoha. Her expression was grave, her eyes filled with worry.

Just as Nagato cared about her, she cared about Nagato as well. Their friendship had long surpassed everything else.

Not long after she left, Jiraiya appeared at the border. After only a brief rest, he crossed it and hurried toward the Land of Earth.

Konoha, within the Senju Clan compound!

"Uzumaki Nagato... Can someone control those eyes solely through the Uzumaki Clan's bloodline?"

Standing atop a rooftop, the Second Hokage silently mused. Following his gaze revealed a red-haired figure—Nagato. His eyes were covered with a layer of white gauze as he sat on a patch of grass, seemingly lost in thought.

Naraku had not concealed Nagato's identity, openly telling