During the month Sasuke and Itachi spent preparing for battle, the Akatsuki also completed their hunt for the Three-Tails!
By then, the Fourth Mizukage, Yagura, had died. The Three-Tails had returned to the wild, dwelling deep within a lake in the Land of Water. Deidara and Tobi went to hunt it down, then brought it to the nearest Stronghold for sealing.
Six people took part in the Sealing: Pain, Konan, Deidara, Tobi, Kisame, and Zetsu.
Kisame said nothing about his battle with Sasuke. Only when Pain asked where Itachi was did he answer, "Itachi and Sasuke are about to fight. He has no time for Akatsuki business right now."
Zetsu said, "With one fewer person helping with the Sealing, we merely have to work a little harder. If Itachi gets rid of the nuisance that is Sasuke for us, that will be a real contribution..."
Deidara said, "Hey, how many times have I told you? Sasuke is my prey!"
Tobi said, "He did take your arm, after all~."
Deidara could no longer be bothered to respond to Tobi. He asked Kisame directly, "Hey, Kisame, tell me where they're fighting. I'm going to intercept Sasuke!"
Kisame stood straight on the Demonic Statue's fingertip, his hands holding a seal. With his gaze lowered, he said, "Deidara, I'm not trying to belittle you, but I suggest you don't throw your life away..."
Deidara could not stomach such contempt. "My art has reached new heights! This time, I'll send Sasuke Uchiha straight to the West!!!"
"..." Kisame simply closed his eyes and ignored Deidara.
Seeing this, Deidara turned to Pain. "Leader, I've already met my quota for the Akatsuki, haven't I? Then there's no problem with me taking care of some personal business, right?"
Pain said, "The Akatsuki will not interfere in your personal