Being Followed
After returning to the village covered in wounds, Kakuzu still held a sliver of hope for some comfort from the village chief, since he had been wounded in a glorious manner, even though he had failed to complete his mission.
But how should I put it? Even if they didn't achieve great things, they certainly put in a lot of effort!
But to his surprise, he was met not with warm comfort, but with cold accusations and indifferent stares from the villagers!
The words "mission failed" were like a heavy shackle, firmly binding him, while the cage that imprisoned him was like an endless darkness from which he could not escape.
Kakuzu has actually been imprisoned! Who wouldn't be angry in this situation?!
Kakuzu thought to himself, "Hmph, you incompetent fools, how dare you blame me?! Why don't you try killing God of Shinobi like Hashirama!"
Driven by resentment, Kakuzu resolutely broke out of prison and stole the village's priceless secret technique, "Earth Grudge Fear."
During the prison break, Kakuzu ruthlessly killed the once high-ranking officials and stole their hearts.
Then, without hesitation, he chose to betray the village and flee this place that had utterly disappointed him.
The power of "Earth Grudge Fear" allows Kakuzu to continuously seize and replace hearts, thus escaping death and possessing endless years.
Time flies by like flowing water, and all things in the world gradually age and disappear under the erosion of time. Only money always accompanies him, becoming his most loyal partner.
For Kakuzu, money is not only a guarantee of livelihood, but also a source of satisfaction and security.
As a highly skilled ninja, the fastest way to acquire wealth is to become a bounty hunter, so Kakuzu chases after targets with high bounties Kakuzu.
Until three years ago, the tranquility was broken by the appearance of Koki. Of course, Koki had thought it through carefully before seeking him out.
Each heart that Kakuzu possesses contains a unique Chakra attribute, which allows him to skillfully control the transformations of the five Chakra types and maximize the power of each attribute.
The masked monsters summoned by "Earth Grudge Fear" can be used individually or in combination to enhance their power.
His secret technique, "Earth Grudge Fear," allows him to manipulate black tentacles released from his body using Chakra, thus easily seizing the hearts of others.
This even includes his own heart; his body can hold up to five hearts, and he prolongs his life by replacing his own heart, earning him the title of "a person who lives as long as heaven and earth."
Each heart can transform into a black monster forged by "Earth Grudge Fear," and these monsters can unleash the unique magic of their original owners.
With such immense power and an immortal body, wouldn't it be perfect to have him as a bodyguard?
Koki was lost in her own thoughts, her mind churning with ideas and strategies for the future, charting the course for her future.
"Excuse me, gentlemen." An unexpected interruption broke his thoughts.
Koki was slightly taken aback, then slowly raised her eyes. Several waiters were walking gracefully toward their table, carrying plates and dishes of various kinds of food.
They placed the food on the table one by one, and in no time, the table was covered with a dazzling array of delicacies.
The abundance of dishes made Koki's eyes widen in surprise. How could Kakuzu have ordered so many dishes?
After the waiters left, Kakuzu looked at Koki and said, "Boss, let's eat!"
Koki looked at Kakuzu with a puzzled expression, "Are you sure you can eat this?"
Kakuzu chuckled, scratched his head, and explained, "Isn't this our first meeting? I just ordered all the dishes."
Upon hearing this, Koki was taken aback at first, then burst into a pleasant laugh. In his mind, Kakuzu a money-obsessed person, but he never expected him to make such a simple gesture.
He smiled and shook his head, his opinion of Kakuzu somewhat changed, and said generously, "This hot pot meal is on me today."
Since it's my own hot pot restaurant, it's free, and I can even boost my public image, so why not?
Upon hearing this, Kakuzu hurriedly waved his hand in refusal. "Boss, how can this be?"
At the same time, he thought to himself, "This is great! I've saved money on another meal today!"
The hot pot was boiling, steaming. Koki picked up a slice of tender meat and put it in her mouth. The rich flavor spread on her tongue, and a sense of satisfaction arose spontaneously.
Don't be shy, eat up!
After enjoying the delicious hot pot, the two strolled contentedly away from the town, the weak winter sun gently shining on their shoulders.
The figures of Koki and Kakuzu left a long trail of footprints on the snow.
Throughout the journey, Kakuzu behaved very discreetly, maintaining an appropriate distance. He remained silent, simply following behind Koki, always on high alert.
He didn't ask about Koki's destination because he believed that no matter where Koki went, he was capable of protecting her. His sharp eyes swept around from time to time, capturing any potential threats.
As evening approached, the afterglow of the setting sun bathed the earth in a golden hue. The two finally left the territory of Konoha and stepped into a quiet forest.
Just as Koki stepped into the woods, a figure suddenly blocked his path.
Kakuzu felt a chill run down his spine. Who was it? How could he have failed to notice this person's approach?
He was a monk, wearing a dark gray robe that fluttered in the wind, making him appear simple and dignified. He was only in his early twenties, with a tall and straight posture and a kind yet majestic face.
His eyes were serene, as if they could see through everything in the world. His head was bald, and in the glow of the setting sun, it radiated a soft light.
He clasped his hands together in front of his chest, his fingers long and delicate. "My lord!" The monk bowed slightly and paid his respects to Koki.
"Grown ups?"
Are they here to steal his business and get a piece of the pie?
Who's more valuable, him or this bald guy?
If I kill him, will I be able to keep all the money?
Kakuzu glanced at him, and just then the monk looked up as well. The two faced each other in silence.
Koki smiled calmly and nodded slightly.
The monk asked, "Shall we leave now?"
"Let's go, but..." Koki suddenly turned around, a sharp glint in her eyes, her tone icy, "Let's deal with those little rats following us first."
Kakuzu immediately understood Koki's intention, a cold smile appearing on his lips. He cracked his fingers, making a series of snapping sounds.
He couldn't wait to get rid of those annoying little bugs!
The monk remained standing there quietly, his eyes calm and undisturbed, seemingly waiting for Koki's next instruction.