"Matatabi, the Two-Tails!"
"A monstrous cat covered in blue chakra, capable of wielding searing flames."
After learning the whereabouts of the Two-Tails' Jinchūriki, the group set off again.
Their destination this time was inside Kumogakure itself. Along the way, Pain calmly explained what they knew.
"Two-Tails' Jinchūriki. Threat level: moderate."
"She has mastered the ability to undergo Tailed Beast Transformation while remaining conscious."
"Since this mission takes place inside Kumogakure, the danger may rise by several levels. I hope everyone is mentally prepared for that."
After a pause, Pain continued in the same flat voice.
"The slightest slip during the mission could alert all of Kumogakure's shinobi. If that happens, we will have to face the entire village."
"Please exercise the utmost caution."
Everyone reacted differently to his words.
Uchiha Itachi looked somewhat tense, while Sasori, Kakuzu, and the others merely chuckled, unconcerned.
A short while later, the group disguised themselves as a passing merchant caravan and entered Kumogakure after being inspected.
Unlike Konoha, Kumogakure was built atop towering mountain peaks, with mist everywhere and thunder constantly rumbling in their ears.
"White Zetsu, lead the way. Take us straight to the target."
Pain gave the order.
White Zetsu nodded with a smile. "No problem!"
Following White Zetsu, they reached Cloud Peak without incident. Surveying their surroundings, they found the mountain covered in forest.
"The Two-Tails' Jinchūriki spends most of her time training. Since she's inside the village, security around her isn't particularly tight."
"With our strength, we can break through easily!"
White Zetsu explained.
River nodded, walking in the middle of the group, while Uchiha Itachi carefully watched their surroundings.
As they approached the location of Yugito Nii, the Two-Tails' Jinchūriki, everyone grew alert.
"I'll assign everyone's tasks now."
River spoke quietly.
"Itachi, Sasori, Kakuzu, Konan, the four of you