Chapter 9 - Two-sided plans

Ryu entered the gates of Amegakure with firm steps, and was immediately greeted by a crowd of Akatsuki members. The constant rain that fell over the village seemed to create an almost ceremonial setting for his arrival. Konan stood at the front line, her eyes shining with relief and admiration at seeing him return, while the other members of the organization formed a line, bowing to their leader with silent respect.

Ryu nodded, a small smile forming on his lips as he observed everyone. He couldn't help but feel a warm glow in his chest at how much this village and this group had evolved. But he knew the festivities would have to wait.

"Let's go to the meeting room. We have much to discuss." He stated firmly, his voice echoing throughout the room as he made his way to the center of the village, where the main tower was located.

Inside the room, the atmosphere was tense but full of anticipation. Everyone was eager to update Ryu on the events that had happened during his absence. The Akatsuki leader settled into a chair in the center of the room, his hands resting on the table as his eyes scanned the group.

"So, let's get straight to the point. What happened while I was away?" His voice was calm, but filled with authority.

Yugo, one of the trusted commanders, spoke first. "During these two months, we have had to deal with some significant challenges. Remnants loyal to Hanzo have attempted to regroup and take control of the village. But do not worry, sir. We dealt with them quickly and eliminated any threat before it could cause any real damage."

Ryu nodded, but his expression remained serious. "That was expected. Proceed."

"We also had unwelcome visitors from Konoha." Yugo continued, his voice deepening. "They came to investigate Akatsuki's activities, trying to accuse us of being complicit in Hanzo's actions. However, we managed to convince them that Akatsuki was an independent revolutionary force that had merely improved the village. There was no major fighting, and they retreated."

This information made Ryu close his eyes for a moment, his face adopting a thoughtful expression. When he reopened them, a dangerous glint flashed across his golden eyes. "Konoha..." he muttered, almost to himself.

"That's not all," Yugo added hesitantly. "We've received reports that... Yahiko is alive."

Hearing this, Ryu's expression changed drastically. His usual smile disappeared, replaced by a cold, cutting gaze.

He rested his elbows on the table, interlacing his fingers in front of his face. "He's alive..." he repeated, as if processing the information, before adding, his voice thick with irritation: "And talking too much."

The Akatsuki members looked at each other, aware of the weight these words carried. The atmosphere in the room grew dense, as if the tension was palpable.

Konan, who was beside Ryu, gently placed her hand on his shoulder, trying to lighten the atmosphere.

"Ryu... Yahiko knows you're a powerful rival. But perhaps he's more focused on gathering strength than acting against us directly."

Ryu snorted, crossing his arms. "If he's alive, then he has something on his mind. He's not the type of person who would just disappear for no reason. But if he's spreading information... that means he's building alliances."

He stood up, looking at every Akatsuki member in the room. "We need to be prepared. Yahiko is no ordinary threat. He knows the village and knows how to mobilize people. I want detailed information on his movements, and if possible, I want to know who he is contacting."

"Yes, sir," Yugo replied promptly, the other members nodding in unison.

Ryu took a deep breath, his expression softening, but his determination remained evident. "Very well. Let us continue ensuring that the village prospers while we deal with these threats. I will not let anyone, not even Yahiko, interfere with the plans I have for Amegakure."

Ryu crossed his arms, leaning against the wall of the meeting room as he looked at the group gathered before him. His expression was grim, reflecting the seriousness of his thoughts. He began to walk slowly across the space, each step echoing in the silent room.

"I sense that Yahiko is with Konoha." His voice was firm, but filled with restrained frustration. "He's probably trying to destabilize us, to remove us from power for reclaiming the Rain on our terms, not his. That would be very like Yahiko."

The Akatsuki members exchanged worried glances. Konan, who was standing next to Ryu, frowned, taking in his words. "Do you believe he would make an alliance with Konoha, even knowing how they view us? That seems... desperate."

Ryu chuckled and turned to Konan, a slight wry smile on his lips. "It's not just a desperate alliance, Konan. It's also a 'strategic' move. When I was leaving Ryuuchi Cave, I was attacked by Leaf Anbus. They were well organized and seemed to know exactly where I was. This was no coincidence." He narrowed his eyes, his voice growing darker. "If Yahiko is really behind this, then he's not just allied with Konoha. He's completely joined them. It's more than a partnership... he's now one of them."

There was a murmur of unease among those present. The possibility of Yahiko, a former comrade, allying himself with what many of them saw as enemies, was not only a personal betrayal, but also a blow to their strategies.

"If that's true," Yugo began, breaking the silence. "Then Konoha may be using Yahiko as a symbol. He has influence here in Amegakure. The people still see him as a savior. If he returns, supported by the Leaf, it could divide the village."

Ryu nodded, his expression hardening. "Exactly. They want to play on the idea that he's Amegakure's true hero. Use him to undermine our authority. But we won't allow that."

Konan stepped forward, her voice soft but filled with concern. "What do we do, Ryu? If Yahiko is truly allied with Konoha, we will face not only him, but also the resources and shinobi of the most powerful village in the world."

Ryu looked at Konan, his gaze now filled with conviction. "We have prepared ourselves, Konan. Yahiko may have Konoha on his side, but we have something he does not: determination and unity. Besides..." He raised his hand, letting the power of the Rinnegan flare for a brief moment before deactivating it again. "...we have the strength they fear."

He turned his attention to the entire group, his presence dominating the room. "I want you to monitor any movement from Konoha and Yahiko. Strengthen our defenses, but do not make any rash actions. If they want a confrontation, we will be ready. But first, we need to fully understand their plans before we act."

The room was silent for a moment before everyone nodded, showing their determination. Ryu, however, remained silent for a moment longer, looking out the window at the horizon.

"Yahiko... if you chose this path, then you have no choice but to face it. Even if it means confronting our past."

Ryu turned his steady gaze to the leaders gathered in the room. The atmosphere was tense, with each member of Akatsuki anxiously awaiting his next words. The soft light that filtered through the windows partially illuminated his face, highlighting his golden eyes with snake-like irises, which seemed to glow with an unearthly intensity. He crossed his arms, his tone deep and full of conviction.

"Now, there is something that could be the foundation of our plan," he began, his voice echoing in the room.

Yoshino, one of Akatsuki's most trusted, stepped forward, his face showing both curiosity and determination.

"What is it, leader?" He asked, with a subtle bow.

Ryu took a deep breath before answering, his words carrying weight.

"The tailed beasts." He paused briefly, letting the impact of his words sink in. "The Gedo Mazo, the sealing statue we possess, can be used to collect the tailed beasts. From Shukaku, the First Tail, to Kurama, the Nine Tails. We need them all."

"With these powerful entities sealed away, we can unleash the ultimate power. This power will be the key to shaping a new world. A world where we will no longer be pawns in others' wars. A world where there will be no feudal lords or systems that perpetuate suffering. It will be a world we will create with our own hands!"

His snake eyes flashed, and he took a step forward, scanning every face present. His serious gaze never wavered. "I know this won't be easy. Each tailed beast is a force of nature, guarded by villages that won't give in without a fight. But we cannot hesitate. If we want to change the fate of this world, this is the only way."

Konan, who had been watching in silence until now, crossed her arms, pondering Ryu's plan. "If we use the tailed beasts, the world will see us as enemies. Even those who sympathize with Akatsuki may abandon us."

Ryu nodded slowly, acknowledging the validity of her concerns. "I know, Konan. But the world already sees us as dangerous revolutionaries. We can't worry about what others think right now. This plan is bigger than any alliance or public approval. It's about the survival and future of this world."

Yoshino, still digesting the plan, asked cautiously. "What about Yahiko and Konoha? They will oppose this with all their might."

"Yes, they will," Ryu replied, his tone grave. "But Yahiko doesn't understand what's at stake. He's stuck in outdated ideals that don't work. If he tries to interfere, he'll be treated like any other obstacle in our path."

Silence fell over the room. The weight of Ryu's words was clear to all. He wasn't just proposing change. He was declaring a war that would redefine the world. Every member knew there was no turning back.

"So…" Ryu said, breaking the silence. "Are you with me? Are we ready to capture these beasts and fulfill our destiny?"

The leaders exchanged glances, and one by one, they nodded. Even in the face of fear and doubt, their determination was clear.

Ryu raised his fist, declaring with conviction. "Then let us begin. From now on, Akatsuki becomes the force that will shape this world into something new. Prepare yourselves. Our true mission begins now!"

Konan approached slowly, the touch of her fingers on Ryu's arm gentle but filled with palpable concern. Her eyes, filled with uneasiness, searched his. "What if this leads to open war, Ryu? Yahiko is already painting us as villains. If we continue down that path, we will only give our enemies more ammunition to destroy us."

For a moment, Ryu's face, always so resolute, softened. He brought his hand to her face, his fingers gently caressing her skin.

"Konan," he said, his voice low but full of conviction and affection. "War is the last thing I want to do. I want our actions to bring change, not destruction. Let's do this quietly. I don't want to inflict more pain on the world... I want to pull it out of the clutches of suffering, save it from itself."

She kept her gaze fixed on him, taking in every word. There was something about his determination that calmed her, while also erasing any doubts present in her mind.

Ryu then gently stepped away and turned his attention to the assembled leaders. His posture became firm, and his voice echoed through the room, filled with authority and purpose. "Listen well. Starting now, I want everyone to begin gathering information on the tailed beasts and their jinchūriki. Every detail matters: their weaknesses, their movements, the places where they are hiding. I want maps, plans, everything necessary. Each beast will be approached with a meticulous plan. We cannot fail."

The leaders nodded, exchanging glances with one another, the weight of the task evident in their expressions. Despite the magnitude of the plan, Ryu's presence, his confidence and unwavering vision, seemed to instill courage in each of them. Yoshino, who had always been more pragmatic, bowed briefly.

"Understood, leader. We will mobilize our spies and begin immediately."

Ryu looked each of them over, making sure his words had been understood. His golden eyes, which now seemed to hold the intensity of a predator watching its prey, shone with determination. He knew the path ahead would be arduous, filled with challenges and sacrifices. But he also knew that his vision was clear, his mission greater than any obstacle that might come his way.

"This will be the next step in our mission," he declared, his voice thick with promise. "Akatsuki will not be remembered as an organization of destruction, but as the catalyst for a new world. Prepare yourselves. Destiny awaits us."

Konan, still by his side, bowed slightly in support. Even though there were still doubts in her mind, she knew that she would stand by Ryu no matter how uncertain the future was.

"We are with you," she whispered, and in her voice there was both loyalty and faith.

As the leaders left the room, the room fell silent. The tension that had previously hung in the air seemed to gradually dissipate, giving way to a more intimate atmosphere. Konan approached Ryu with gentle steps, her serious expression softening as she looked at him. Without saying a word, she raised her hands to touch his face and, in a spontaneous and emotional gesture, leaned in and kissed him.

Time seemed to slow down in that moment. The kiss was calm, but heavy with unspoken emotions—a mix of concern, support, and something deeper that they had shared since they began this journey together. When they finally broke apart, Konan's eyes sought his, still shining with that calm intensity that only Ryu seemed to carry.

"The Tailed Beasts," she began, her voice low and almost hesitant. "Are you sure about this? It won't just be difficult for them... even for me, this is a huge thing. It's a huge responsibility, and a dangerous challenge."

Ryu took her hands in his gently, his thumbs stroking the backs of them as he gave her a small but reassuring smile.

"It'll be okay," he replied, his voice filled with a confidence that seemed unshakable. "We'll all have time to prepare. Before we start the hunt, they'll be ready, each at their best. And do you know why?"

Konan tilted her head slightly, her expression displaying a mixture of curiosity and concern.

Ryu continued, his smile widening slightly as his tone took on a hint of enthusiasm. "Because I will be their trainer. Not only to teach them how to fight better, but to ensure they are mentally ready for what is to come. I will lead them as a true leader should."

Konan took a deep breath, letting his words sink in. There was something reassuring about Ryu's confidence, a strength that seemed capable of carrying the weight of the world. She knew the path ahead was dangerous, but as she looked at him, she felt a glimmer of hope.

"Then I'll trust you," she murmured, squeezing his hands lightly before letting out a small smile. "But know that no matter how hard it gets, I'll be by your side. Always."

Ryu leaned down, gently touching her forehead with his. "And I am grateful for that, Konan. Together, we will shape a world that will no longer need to suffer."

Land of Fire, Konoha.

In the heart of the Land of Fire, the Hidden Leaf Village, Yahiko walked through the streets of Konoha, his expression filled with a mixture of tension and frustration. It had been two months since his arrival in the village, and everything that had happened seemed like a whirlwind that was difficult to process.

Upon his arrival, he was captured and imprisoned by the Anbus, his intentions severely questioned. He offered no resistance; part of him knew he deserved it. However, everything changed when his former master, Jiraiya, intervened. The Toad Sage, recognizing Yahiko even after many years, secured his release and, in a surprising move, managed to have him admitted as an official ally of the village.

Since then, Yahiko had been forced to relive the events in the Land of Rain countless times. In front of the Hokage and Konoha's top brass, he recounted every detail—how Akatsuki had transformed from a peaceful group into a revolutionary force led by Ryu, how Nagato had fallen in battle and had his eyes stolen, and how he himself had lost his leadership position. But the name that echoed most in his words was Ryu.

"He's unlike anyone I've ever met," Yahiko had said during one of their meetings. "Intelligent, powerful, and determined, but also extremely dangerous. He believes he's saving the world, but his methods could destroy it."

These words not only caused concern in Konoha, but also aroused a sense of urgency. With detailed information about Akatsuki and its plans, Yahiko had become a key player in the village's strategy against the growing threat. However, the position he found himself in was an uncomfortable one. Even though he wanted to defeat Ryu, part of him still felt the weight of betrayal—not just of Ryu, but of everything Akatsuki had stood for in its early days.

As he walked through the streets, he felt the curious and sometimes suspicious gazes of the villagers. Konoha had accepted his presence, but trust was something that would take time to earn. Even so, Yahiko had a clear goal: to help stop Ryu before it was too late.

He stopped in front of a huge building, the Hokage building, and took a deep breath.

In the large and solemn meeting room, the atmosphere was dense, charged with the gravity of the matter at hand. Konoha's advisors, high-ranking members and experienced ninjas were gathered around the central table. Yahiko was present, sitting in the corner, attentive and distressed. He already suspected what would be discussed, but hearing the words of Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, was a blow that accelerated his heart.

"The Akatsuki leader was previously in Ryuuchi Cave. The Anbus we sent to investigate and, if possible, neutralize him... were all killed," Hiruzen began, his expression heavy and grave. He paused, letting the words sink into everyone's minds. "Shortly after that, he returned to Amegakure without any difficulty."

Yahiko felt a chill run down his spine. He had known Ryu's potential, but hearing about a complete massacre of Konoha's Anbus—some of the village's most skilled ninja—made the threat all the more real. Ryu wasn't just dangerous; he was a force that could change the balance of the ninja world.

"How is that possible?" Danzo Shimura, always in favor of more aggressive actions, spoke in a firm voice, his eyes narrowed. "Ryuuchi Cave is known to be a hostile place, but I didn't think anyone could come out of there even stronger, to the point of crushing an Anbus force."

"We are dealing with something beyond the ordinary," Jiraiya replied, crossing his arms and looking at the Hokage. "Ryu is no ordinary leader. He has probably become the Sage, surpassing Orochimaru perhaps. Back when he was still a teenager, he defeated all Three Legendary Sannins, do not underestimate what that means. He not only controls tremendous power, but also has the ability to manipulate others with his ideas."

The room was silent for a moment, everyone processing the gravity of the report. It was then that Yahiko finally gathered the courage to speak, his voice low but filled with urgency.

"He won't stop. Ryu believes he's saving the world, but his vision of salvation is... destructive. He sees no limits."

Danzo, always pragmatic and ruthless, cut the conversation short with a direct proposal. "We need to attack now. If we wait, he'll get even stronger. Yahiko has information about Akatsuki, we can use him to devise an infiltration plan."

Jiraiya narrowed his eyes at Danzo, clearly not liking the idea. "We can't act rashly. Ryu is no common enemy, and if we come into direct conflict, not only Konoha, but the entire ninja world will be affected. We need to be strategic."

"Strategy is for those who have time," Danzo countered. "And time is something we are losing every day that Ryu strengthens his hold on Amegakure."

Yahiko stood up, feeling the weight of all the attention on him. He took a deep breath before speaking. "I can help, but you must understand that Ryu is not someone who can simply be attacked. He is always one step ahead. To face him, we will need something more... something he cannot predict."

Hiruzen closed his eyes for a moment, considering everyone's words.

As he opened them, his expression was resolute. "Let's gather more information about Akatsuki and Ryu's movement. In the meantime, Jiraiya, I want you to investigate Ryu's possible targets. We must be prepared for any eventuality."

The meeting continued with intense debates, but for Yahiko, the truth was clear: the war against Ryu was getting closer, and he was not sure the world was ready to face the Akatsuki Leader.

On the ceiling of the meeting room, a discreet and menacing presence went unnoticed by the participants. Among the shadows and wooden beams, a dark-scaled snake lay motionless, camouflaged in the surroundings. Its eyes, however, were unmistakable. They glowed with a deep purple hue, displaying a mesmerizing pattern of concentric circles that seemed to pulse gently, as if they were alive. It was the pattern of the Rinnegan, the legendary dojutsu that symbolized powers beyond human comprehension.

The snake remained in absolute silence, carefully observing every movement and listening to every word spoken by the leaders of Konoha. Its posture was calm, but its presence exuded an aura of vigilance and threat. It was no ordinary snake; it was clearly a summon, connected to someone who had a definite purpose in sending it here.

As the heated debates continued in the room, no one noticed the silent observer. The snake, with its piercing eyes, absorbed every detail, every strategy discussed, every concern expressed. When Yahiko mentioned Ryu and his intentions, the snake's eyes glowed slightly, as if registering that crucial information.

As the meeting began to draw to a close, the snake moved slightly, almost imperceptibly, slithering through the shadows. With one last glance at the room, it disappeared in a cloud of thick, silent smoke, leaving behind only the echo of its existence.

Somewhere in the distance, a short-haired figure with golden snake-like irises gave a subtle smile as the same concentric circles of the Rinnegan reflected in his eyes.

"So that's what Konoha is planning... Interesting." Ryu muttered, already formulating his own counterattacks. "They're more desperate than I thought."