Upon reaching the highest tower in Amegakure, Naruto arrived with Black Zetsu and White Zetsu. Nagato had already retreated to a more secluded area, leaving only Konan and Heavenly Pain to await their arrival. This was a clear display of their skepticism, wary of Black Zetsu's intentions.
However, both Obito and Black Zetsu were aware of Nagato's significance as the bearer of the Six Paths body. The connection between Obito, Black Zetsu, and Nagato dated back to before Yahiko's death, with both parties playing a role in Nagato's eventual transformation. Black Zetsu, however, was unaware of Naruto's role in restoring Nagato's vitality, hence the need for caution.
"It appears you have already met," Konan remarked, adopting her usual aloof demeanor.
Heavenly Pain, too, spoke coldly, "We have received word that you eliminated him," referring to the individual who was almost named Obito or Madara, but was instead referred to as "that person."
"As you are stronger than him, and we are aware of our plan to collect the Tailed Beasts to intimidate the Five Great Nations, and you wish to join us, you will take his place," Heavenly Pain declared, addressing Naruto.
Black Zetsu cast a sidelong glance at Naruto. While he and White Zetsu were adept at concealing their identities when acting together, there were certain limitations, such as the inability to turn their heads simultaneously. If one turned unexpectedly while the other was unprepared, it could result in an uncomfortable situation, even if not fatal.
Naruto negotiated and formed an alliance with the two groups of four, and after a silent exchange of glances, no objections were raised. Thus, Naruto officially became a member of the Akatsuki.
"However, I will not be participating directly, nor will I be a permanent member. Before that, I will assist you in recruiting additional talents who will serve as your main assistants. Additionally, I must confirm the status of the Gedo Statue. Payne, where is the Gedo Statue?" Naruto inquired, turning his gaze towards Payne, who feigned ignorance.
Payne looked towards Jue for guidance, but before Black Zetsu could respond, White Zetsu interjected, "What are your intentions with the Gedo Statue?"
Naruto glanced at Black Zetsu, understanding that White Zetsu was still acting in accordance with Madara's will, and thus, it was natural for him to be cautious.
Black Zetsu took the initiative to divulge the current whereabouts of the Gedo Statue: "It's situated at the mountain tomb. Placing the Gedo Statue in plain sight would attract unwanted attention, so we've hidden it in a secluded cave there. A few outsiders, typically overseen by either myself or White Zetsu, are tasked with guarding it."
Black Zetsu's disclosure stemmed from the fact that the Gedo Statue was originally summoned from the moon's seal after Madara clandestinely activated his Rinnegan. The Gedo Statue prolonged Madara's life for many years and played a crucial role in his plans. However, when Madara set his sights on Nagato's body, intending to resurrect himself on a specific day, the Yahiko incident intervened, leading to Nagato's summoning and the emergence of the Gedo Statue.
By framing it as though the Gedo Statue was summoned by Nagato, Black Zetsu obscured its true origin.
As for the location of the mountain tomb, Naruto was unaware of its whereabouts, hidden deep within the hinterlands of the Land of Iron,.
Originally the country lacked its own ninja village. Orochimaru later established Otogakure Village within Tanokuni after defecting from Konoha Village.
Subsequently, Orochimaru seized the entire territory as his stronghold. Regrettably, Otogakure Village was later destroyed.
As for Takigakure, it boasted its own ninja village, Takigakure Hidden Village, and was home to the Seven-Tails, also known as Kakuzu's birthplace.
Yes, Kakuzu claimed to have assassinated the First Hokage, Senju Hashirama. However, considering the vast disparity in their combat prowess, it's difficult to envision him returning unscathed.
Hence, the term "assassination" may be debated.
With these neighboring countries discussed, the focus shifts to the Iron Country.
This country had faced the onslaught of Amegakure during the Second Ninja War, a historical event that seems inconceivable now, considering the country of Rain is separated by two others before reaching the Iron Country.
During that turbulent period, Hanzō of the Salamander personally led the Amegakure, crossing borders to face Mifune of the Iron Kingdom. Their encounter resembled a commendable tale, akin to when Hanzō met the legendary Sannin, giving them monikers similar to those bestowed upon Konoha's Sannin.
Indeed, Hanzō was known as the demigod and had a penchant for nicknaming individuals. Following his defeat at the hands of the First Hokage, he tactically withdrew.
The Land of Iron, unlike other nations, lacked a ninja village and even ninjas in general. Instead, it prided itself on samurai culture, making it a rare bastion of samurai groups. This unique status and neutrality were declared during the Second Ninja War, ensuring that other ninjas refrained from hostilities against this nation.
Deep within the country lies the Tomb of the Mountain, an inconspicuous location where Black Zetsu and Obito concealed the Gedo Statue within a mysterious cave. Unbeknownst to many, this neutral country held a spark that would ignite and set the stage for the future Fourth Ninja War.
Naruto, speaking with unwavering resolve, conveyed his plans, "Next, I'll assist in recruiting members and make a stop. I want to assess the Gedo Statue's situation because, once fully prepared, we'll begin collecting Tailed Beasts."
His determination suggested a hidden motive, a secret shared only with Kurama. Naruto's intent was to inspect whether Kurama could devour the empty shell of the Ten Tails sacred tree, a crucial step in defeating Ōtsutsuki Kaguya.
While outwardly promising to aid Black Zetsu in resurrecting Ōtsutsuki Kaguya, Naruto had clandestinely initiated plans to eliminate her. Even though she was his ancestor and linked to several prominent families, Naruto harbored a scheme to end her existence.
Black Zetsu, unaware of Naruto's true intentions, volunteered, "I'll accompany you and guide you to the graveyard of the mountain."
"Perfect. Let's act immediately, starting with locating Orochimaru," Naruto responded, setting the wheels in motion for their next move.
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