Naruto: Zanka No Tachi

Shibuki's letter quickly reached Konoha. Minato was discussing Chūnin Exam preparations with Yusuke.

After reading the letter, Minato passed it to Yusuke.

Shibuki's letter stated that Fū, the Seven-Tails jinchuriki, would represent Takigakure in the exams.

However, Takigakure had received information about Akatsuki's plan to capture the Seven-Tails and requested Konoha's assistance to prevent any incidents.

"Shibuki sent the Seven-Tails jinchuriki after receiving your information. I've met Shibuki several times; he's usually calm. This is puzzling," Minato said curiously.

Yusuke shook his head, "Shibuki is said to be strict but soft-hearted. Fū is apparently spoiled; Shibuki couldn't control her."

"Also, our information was covert, making him suspicious."

Yusuke's expression turned serious, "But my informant said Akatsuki's leader, possessing the Rinnegan, is no ordinary ninja."

Remembering Yusuke's information on Akatsuki's abilities, Minato was troubled.

"The Seven-Tails is safe in Takigakure. Akatsuki can't get her unless they attack. But her trip to Konoha gives them an opportunity!"

Minato believed no one in Konoha could defeat Akatsuki's leader, except Yusuke, whom he couldn't fathom.

"I've never asked about your true strength, but I must now."

Minato looked at Yusuke seriously.

"Can you defeat Akatsuki's leader?"

Ninjas usually don't discuss their strength; it's taboo.

Yusuke didn't answer directly but smiled, "It seems I'll have to go myself."

The Land of Water bordered the Land of Fire to the north. Teleportation seals were set up at the border, making it easy for Yusuke to reach Fū.

Minato smiled, relieved. With Yusuke, even against Akatsuki, Minato felt secure.

"Thanks for your help with the Kurama clan. You took Yakumo Kurama as a disciple and even entered her in the Chūnin Exams. I'm looking forward to her performance," Minato smiled.

Yusuke was pleased with his new disciple, "Her strength will surprise you."

In the center of Amegakure stood a giant statue with Rinnegan patterns on its eyes.

This statue was erected after Hanzo's disappearance, when Pain and Konan arrived in Amegakure.

The immobile Nagato was hidden inside the statue. He relied on the Six Paths of Pain; he was in a special device, immobile and weak.

His skin was pale and lifeless; he was emaciated, like a corpse. His sunken eyes were surrounded by dark circles; his cheeks were hollow; even his red Uzumaki hair was grey.

He was only alive thanks to his Uzumaki life force.

A swirling space-time distortion appeared beside Nagato; Obito materialized.

"Madara, what do you want?"

Konan, wary, asked Obito, who wore a mask.

Obito still acted as Madara; Nagato and Konan still called him "Madara."

Though they were cooperating, they had their own goals and didn't trust each other.

"Konoha is expanding the Chūnin Exams; almost every village will participate. You still plan to attack Konoha and take the tailed beasts?"

Obito ignored Konan and looked at Nagato.

Nagato, weak but resolute, said, "I'll destroy Konoha before the whole ninja world! After collecting the remaining tailed beasts, Akatsuki, with the revived Ten-Tails, will control the ninja world."

"Then peace will be near!"

Obito nodded, "I hope so."

"But your weakness might hinder your plan."

"Besides the enigmatic Uchiha Yusuke, his disciples are formidable. Add Minato, Jiraiya, Kakashi… you might not win."

Nagato remained noncommittal; he knew his opponents were strong.

"The path to dreams is always difficult, but my Rinnegan will eliminate all enemies."

Obito was less optimistic. Uchiha Yusuke was his nightmare; he doubted Nagato could defeat him with only the Six Paths of Pain.

"I'm here to help you regain your strength!"

Nagato and Konan exchanged surprised glances.

Two hours later, a powerful chakra erupted from the statue, sweeping across Amegakure. Villagers prayed to the statue.

After Obito left, Black Zetsu appeared.

"Obito, implanting Hashirama cells into Nagato… you don't fear losing control?"

Obito said gravely, "Otherwise, we can't defeat Konoha. But his battle with Uchiha Yusuke will leave them both weakened; I'll reap the benefits."

Obito was still worried. Nagato and Yusuke's power far surpassed his; he felt a loss of control.

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