Deep within a hidden limestone cave on the border of the Land of Rivers lay one of the Akatsuki's temporary bases, shrouded year-round in cold, damp air. A massive holographic projection array appeared in the center of the cave, casting light onto the wet rock walls and outlining a figure.
"Deva Path." The Thought Clone of Sasori of the Red Sands appeared in the projection, translucent. His voice betrayed no emotion, yet carried a gravity he could not conceal. He stood on the icy water, his reflection wavering as though it might dissolve at any moment. "I encountered a troublesome individual in the Land of Rivers."
At the other end of the projection, Deva Path Pain, controlled by Nagato, stood atop the Tower in Amegakure, overlooking the torrential rain. His rippled Rinnegan were deep and calm, as though they could see through everything in the world. He did not respond immediately, merely waiting quietly for Sasori's report.
"His strength is unfathomable," Sasori continued, recalling Toru Kujyo's devastating strike and that invisible yet irresistible gravitational pull. "He can summon meteors with ease and flatten an entire hilltop. He can also freely wield repulsion and attraction, with power that far surpasses even yours."
At those words, a barely perceptible ripple finally stirred in Deva Path Pain's otherwise tranquil eyes. Repulsion and attraction-those were unmistakably abilities unique to the Rinnegan.
"What does he look like?" Deva Path's voice was low, carrying unquestionable authority.
"He wears a black robe, has white hair, and wears a Pure White Mask without eyeholes." Sasori's Thought Clone paused briefly, a trace of confusion and anger entering his tone. "His sensory abilities are exceptional. He seemed able to pinpoint the location of my real body. Most baffling of all, he didn't try to kill me. Instead, he threatened me