After leaving Kamui space, Josuke returned to the familiar graveyard.
Everything seemed as though nothing had happened, yet also as though everything had already passed.
Obito's words forced Josuke to take things seriously.
He needed strength—great strength—to protect the people he cherished most.
What was coming would come eventually. He could not hide from it.
Josuke was no protagonist chosen by fate. He had no cheats, only the accumulation of hard work day after day.
It was getting late.
Josuke got up and left the graveyard.
He left through Konoha's main gate.
Konoha's security system was as laughable as ever. He walked right out through the front gate, and no one even noticed.
After leaving Konoha, Josuke wandered around aimlessly. For the time being, he did not want to return to Orochimaru's side.
Meanwhile.
Amegakure.
Akatsuki Organization.
Within a vast space, the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path stood tall, emanating a terrifying presence.
An orange-haired man sat with his eyes shut, seemingly waiting for something.
Rain poured outside. This was Amegakure's everyday weather; it rained all year round.
Not a trace of sunlight could be seen.
After an unknown amount of time had passed, a group of shinobi wearing black cloaks with red clouds and forehead protectors marked with rogue-nin symbols entered.
Only then did the orange-haired man slowly open his eyes.
"Everyone's here?"
No one spoke. They waited for the man to give his orders.
"Our losses seem rather severe. Just capturing a few tailed beasts has already cost us three members.
We need to replenish our fighting force. Do any of you have good suggestions?"
Everyone looked at one another.
In the end, no one could think of a suitable candidate.
Pain was somewhat disappointed. No, Nagato was somewhat disappointed.
Though he could complete the task of