"What a pity. They're all a bunch of trash."
Kakuzu looked at the ninja who had come to pledge themselves to him, thoroughly dissatisfied with their strength. Although some had reached the level of Jonin, they were still far from being comparable to Akatsuki's members.
They wanted at least Elite Jonin. Some even needed to be Kage-level powerhouses.
"There's no point in letting them join."
When the latest intelligence was delivered to Uchiha Yuu, he was not surprised by the outcome. After all, in the vast Shinobi World, these ninja who had come were merely passable. It would take time for true experts to arrive.
"I have someone quite promising here. We'll see whether he can withstand your test."
Konan and Kakuzu worked together to manage the ever-growing organization. One was responsible for gathering intelligence, while the other handled the Enlightenment Organization's funds. Their complementary roles dramatically improved their efficiency.
"Hm?"
Uchiha Yuu looked at the list she had submitted, and a different glint appeared in his eyes. He knew this person: Hiruko, who had hunted him down years ago. Back then, Uchiha Yuu could only follow behind Hatake Sakumo. Throughout his battle with Hiruko, he had been suppressed the entire time.
As a rogue ninja from Konoha, it seemed Hiruko could no longer withstand the pressure Konoha brought upon him and wanted an organization that could share that burden. Akatsuki's appearance at this time perfectly filled that gap and gave him an option.
"His strength is indeed decent."
The scene from back then felt as though it had happened yesterday. Recalling Hiruko's strength, Uchiha Yuu nodded lightly and said,
"Perfect. I want to see Hiruko too. But only you know my identity. This is not the time to make it public."
He took a mask from behind his back