Soon, the temporary squad assembled at the village gates.
They saw one another often enough that there was no awkwardness between them. After checking their equipment, they set out for the Land of Wind.
Given the mission's secret nature, they all wore masks issued by ANBU to conceal their identities.
Wearing an ANBU mask for the first time, Guy was visibly excited. He talked about how he had once wanted to join ANBU, only to be turned down by the Hokage and Lord Danzo.
When they stopped to rest that night, Zou Hyuga formally explained the mission's objective and the enemies they might encounter along the way.
He placed particular emphasis on describing the Akatsuki members' appearances, identities, and abilities.
Although Guy was rather lost, he still committed everything to memory.
When he heard about Orochimaru and the Human Puppet made from the Third Kazekage, clear astonishment crossed his face. "Did that Sasori of the Red Sand really kill the Third Kazekage? He was the Kazekage!"
Zou Hyuga smiled and explained, "A Kazekage is still human. An ambush can kill him, too. Besides, Kazekage aren't as powerful as you might imagine. Shisui beat Sasori once, for one.
"Oto and I have fought Orochimaru before, too. Maybe you could take on an Akatsuki member yourself."
Guy hurriedly waved his hands in denial, but his eyes shone. He wanted to face powerful opponents, too.
Lately, Kakashi had begun holding back against him, especially when it came to Taijutsu.
After the brief explanation, Zou Hyuga habitually activated his Byakugan, checking for any White Zetsu lurking nearby.
A sweep of their surroundings revealed no trace of White Zetsu, leaving him slightly disappointed.
With their squad's lineup, they might be able to wipe out some of Akatsuki's weaker members if they happened to encounter them.