A fierce battle had destroyed nearly a third of Amegakure's buildings.
But that was hardly a major problem. In this world riddled with danger, villages were wiped out overnight, and thriving settlements reduced to ruins. It was perfectly normal.
Yes, perfectly normal.
And precisely because it was normal, this world seemed all the more twisted.
River had joined Akatsuki under the codename King. He had also received a ring of his own, made from a special kind of jade and worn on his thumb, more like an archer's thumb ring.
He did not take part in managing Akatsuki, only offering suggestions to help them win.
For instance, using Akatsuki as the core of a centralized government that ruled the entire Land of Rain, strengthening their control over the small nation.
Or relocating villagers from remote regions to the area surrounding Amegakure.
Or improving education, the economy, agriculture, and foreign trade.
Finally, there was stepping up recruitment for Akatsuki.
"If you can turn the Land of Rain into a united whole, bind Akatsuki to it, and put more effort into shaping the civilians' thinking..."
"Development will become much faster and far more efficient."
River spoke with a smile.
He wore a black cloak patterned with red clouds and a comical Ghostface Mask, sitting at the far end of the long conference table.
There were few members at the table. Deva Path Pain sat opposite him, with Konan to his left.
There was also a fellow wearing a Spiral Mask who called himself Tobi.
Akatsuki was holding its first official meeting, and all the members looked quite serious.
"King's suggestions really took me by surprise. You're quite an expert at building a nation."
Tobi exclaimed in admiration.
"But I still think we should stir up wars between the nations and profit from