Ryu and Konan set out from Amegakure at dawn, leaving behind the constant rain and the metallic towers that symbolized the reconstruction of the Land of Rain. The sky was gray, as if reflecting the somber mood of the challenge they were about to face. However, unlike their usual swift journeys, this time Ryu chose a moderate pace, almost as if he wanted to take in every detail of the route.
Konan flew beside Ryu, using her paper wings, while he moved from tree to tree, his movements fluid like a predator on patrol. He looked around, carefully observing the terrain.
"The Land of Rivers... A strategic territory with great potential to expand our influence," Ryu said, breaking the silence.
Konan glanced at him, her wings moving gracefully in the air.
"This won't go unnoticed by Konoha or the other great nations. They'll interpret it as an act of conquest."
Ryu smiled slightly, his eyes shining with determination.
"Let them think that. Our goal is not war, but to strengthen our foundations. If they come, we'll be ready. But first, we need to ensure that the Land of Rivers becomes a legitimate extension of the Land of Rain. And that means earning the loyalty of its people and eliminating any resistance."
The surrounding landscape was serene, with winding rivers cutting through the lush green hills. Small villages could be seen in the distance, and the sound of flowing water was almost hypnotic.
For Konan, that view was almost a reminder of more peaceful times.
"You seem to be enjoying this journey," she remarked, observing Ryu's calm demeanor.
"It's nice to see the world beyond Amegakure's towers," Ryu replied. "And honestly, traveling by your side makes everything more interesting."
Konan blushed slightly but maintained her composure, turning her gaze to the horizon. "If we're going to conquer this territory, we'll need more than just strength. We'll need to show that our presence will benefit the people."
"Exactly," Ryu agreed. "And that's why we need to start by establishing communication with the local leaders. Some of them will likely resist, but others will see the benefits of aligning with us."
As they continued on their way, the sun began to break through the clouds, illuminating the path ahead. Ryu slowed down, stopping at a high point with a view of a wide, shimmering river that gave the region its name. He crossed his arms, contemplating the vastness before him.
Ryu stood at the top of a tree, observing the vast valley before him, where the sun shone brightly, lighting up the green fields and crystal-clear rivers that snaked through the land. He took a deep breath, allowing the fresh, clean air to fill his lungs. For a moment, he seemed less like the imposing leader of the Akatsuki and more like a man admiring the simplicity and beauty of the world.
"It's beautiful," he murmured, his golden eyes capturing every detail of the landscape. "It's been so long since I watched the rain fall that I've forgotten what it's like to live without it." There was a slight melancholy in his voice, a reflection of all the years spent in Amegakure, where the gray sky and incessant drops were unforgettable. It was as if the sky had been crying every single day for something.
Konan landed softly beside him, her paper wings disintegrating as she looked at the same scene with a gleam in her eyes.
"Yes, you're right," she replied, her voice filled with admiration. For Konan, this was more than just a beautiful place. "I had never left Amegakure before. I always thought the world was just rain and concrete. Now I realize there's so much beauty out there... and we never saw it."
She took a small step forward, her eyes sweeping across the horizon. Wildflowers danced in the wind, and the sound of birds filled the air. It was such a stark contrast to the Village Hidden in the Rain that she could hardly believe they were so close to home.
Ryu smiled, noticing the expression of wonder on her face. "Konan, this is the world I want to protect. Not just Amegakure, but all of this. All these beauties that people don't even notice, trapped in wars and suffering."
Konan looked at him, a small smile forming on her lips. "And that's why I believe in you. You see beyond the pain, beyond the battles. You really want to save all of this."
Ryu took a step forward, extending his hand to her. "And we'll do it together. We'll create a world where everyone can admire this, without fear, without pain. But for that, we need to start now."
She took his hand, gripping it firmly, her determination reflected in her eyes.
The two stood in silence for a few moments, simply absorbing the scene. It was rare for both of them to enjoy something as simple as the landscape before them. But in that brief interval, there was a peace that promised to be the essence of the future they both sought to create.
"Let's go," Ryu said, finally breaking the silence. "There's still much to be done."
"Yes," Konan agreed, her paper wings forming again as she prepared to continue alongside him.
As Ryu and Konan leaped from branch to branch, the wind gently blew, swaying the leaves around them and bringing a fresh air that contrasted with Ryu's dark thoughts. He plunged into deep reflection, an inner journey that made him confront the darkest corners of his soul.
'How much time has passed since I ended up here?' he thought, his golden eyes focusing on the horizon, but his mind was far away, revisiting the past he had tried so hard to bury. 'How many changes have I made to this world? How many lives have been shaped, diverted, or destroyed by my actions?'
The image of Nagato came to his mind, followed by Yahiko's face, now a fugitive, and finally, Konan. He watched her out of the corner of his eye, seeing her move with the grace of a butterfly, but carrying with her the strength of a hurricane.
'She's mine,' Ryu thought, but the weight of that declaration hit him like a stone. 'I stole this. I didn't conquer it, I stole it. I used everything and everyone to get what I wanted.'
He remembered his old life, an existence that now seemed like a faded memory. His former name echoed in his mind like a curse: Samael. A name that carried the weight of rejection, suffering, and bitterness. He was the "Poison of the Family," someone despised by those who should have loved him. His parents, his community—everyone rejected him, until he himself began rejecting the world.
'This life... I embraced it so easily because it was all I ever wanted,' he admitted to himself, a bitter smile crossing his lips. 'No parents, no rules, no chains. I'm free here. I make the rules, I decide what's worth it or not. But at what cost?'
Ryu felt something twist in his chest—not regret, but a bitter awareness of who he had become.
'I've become despicable,' he concluded, facing the truth of his nature. Cold, manipulative, greedy. He had used people as tools, bent the world to his favor, all to achieve his own selfish desires. Even his love for Konan was tainted by possessiveness. He didn't just want to be with her; he wanted her to be exclusively his, away from Yahiko, away from anyone else.
The wind picked up, as if trying to pull him from his dark thoughts, but Ryu was trapped in this internal abyss. The forest around them seemed silent, except for the rhythmic sound of his feet touching the branches.
As he jumped between the branches, the silence around him seemed to amplify the muffled screams of his conscience.
'Normally, people would judge me for being like this', Ryu thought, his golden eyes fixed on the horizon. 'But could they really blame me? If someone was deprived of everything for years, of any right to have something of their own, and then the chance to possess something appeared, would they refuse?'
He knew the answer. 'No. They wouldn't refuse. No one would.' It was human nature, he reflected, to desire more, to want what isn't theirs. Greed was ingrained in every human being, a primal force driving the world. 'But there's a limit... right?' He wasn't sure anymore.
His mind wandered to Konan, the one who was now his companion, his light in a world submerged in shadows. He loved her, but the love he felt was poisoned by something darker: possession. When he first met her, he had decided. It wasn't something that could be explained, only felt. He needed her. Not as an ally, not as a friend, but as something exclusively his.
'I took her in, protected her, and ensured she never had the chance to reconnect with Yahiko.' He clenched his fists as he remembered this, as if the truth of his actions burned him from within. He didn't want to admit it, but he had shaped Konan's fate so that she had no choice but to stay by his side.
Still, Yahiko found a way into the Akatsuki. Ryu remembered the day Yahiko was accepted into the group, after the legendary battle against the Sannin. Despite everything, he and Konan tried to form a bond with Yahiko, to create a connection that would benefit the organization. But deep down, Ryu knew the real reason. He wanted to watch. He wanted to make sure Konan didn't get close to Yahiko, that the bond from the past wouldn't be rekindled.
When he saw that Yahiko couldn't reach Konan, that his attempts to bring her to his side failed, Ryu felt something he hadn't expected: relief. She chose to stay with me, he thought, and for a brief moment, a spark of genuine happiness passed through his mind. But it was quickly consumed by the bitterness of the truth. 'It wasn't a choice. It was manipulation. I took this for myself. I didn't earn it.'
He silently cursed himself. 'I'm childish. Selfish. Despicable.' But even acknowledging this, he felt no regret. It was as if, deep down, he knew that if he had to do it all over again, he would do it exactly the same way.
Ryu looked at Konan, who moved gracefully ahead of him. The sunlight touched her skin, making her almost ethereal. He felt the weight of guilt and possessiveness in his chest, but he said nothing. Instead, he kept those thoughts to himself, as he always did.
Konan is my light, he thought, but soon another dark truth emerged. 'And I am the shadow that surrounds her. But maybe... maybe that's the only way to exist for someone like me.'
Unaware, he slowed his pace, lost in his thoughts, while Konan turned and watched him, curious.
"Are you okay, Ryu?" she asked, her voice soft like the wind through the leaves.
He forced a smile, hiding the inner demons.
"Yes," he simply replied. But deep down, he knew the answers to his doubts and insecurities were still a long way off.
Putting his thoughts aside, Ryu took a deep breath and focused on Sage Mode, his senses sharpening instantly. The world around him gained a new clarity—the sound of leaves moving in the wind, the damp smell of moss on the trees, everything seemed amplified. But it was a small movement behind him and Konan that caught his attention. Something was wrong.
He quickly turned, his golden eyes with serpent-like irises locking onto the exact spot where he had sensed the disturbance. Before Konan could react, swift white snakes shot out of his kimono sleeves like lightning. They slithered between the bushes and leaves, moving like predators hunting their prey.
The snakes wasted no time in finding something. A muffled sound echoed as the serpents squeezed and immobilized whatever was hidden. "Found you," Ryu murmured, his voice laden with coldness and confidence. With a flick of his hand, the snakes dragged whatever was concealed, pulling it out from the shadows of the vegetation.
Konan took a step back, cautious, as she watched what the snakes had captured.
"What is this, Ryu?" she asked, her voice serene yet attentive.
From the snakes' claws, a hooded figure emerged, his eyes wide with a mix of surprise and fear. He was a man, probably a scout, dressed in clothes that camouflaged his presence in the forest. His chest rose and fell rapidly, and he struggled futilely against the firm grip of the snakes that held him immobile.
"A spy," Ryu stated, his eyes narrowing. He took a step forward, his imposing presence looming, and crouched down to face the man. "Where did you come from? Who sent you?"
The spy remained silent, his lips pressed into a thin line. Even in fear, he seemed determined not to reveal anything.
Ryu sighed, his patience quickly running out. With a snap of his fingers, one of the snakes tightened its grip on the spy just enough to make him groan in pain, but without causing any serious damage. "I'm not known for being very patient. You can talk now, or let my friends decide your fate."
Konan watched in silence, her expression calm, but her eyes vigilant.
"You choose," Ryu concluded, his voice as cold as steel, while he awaited the spy's response, already anticipating that more surprises could be on the way.
The ninja remained silent, his gaze defiant despite the evident fear. Ryu, impassive, narrowed his eyes, his patience waning with each passing second. Wasting no time, he subtly gestured with his hand, and the snakes holding the man began to slither over his body, investigating every fold and detail of his clothes. Their sharp fangs sliced through the seams with precision, searching for something suspicious.
It didn't take long for one of the snakes to return with something in its mouth: a headband. Ryu took the item, his fingers carefully inspecting it. As he turned it over, his gaze fell upon the characteristic symbol of Sunagakure engraved on the gleaming metal.
"Sunagakure..." Ryu murmured, his tone as cold as a blade of pure steel. He raised the headband to the sunlight, the symbol faintly shining. Konan approached, watching with curiosity.
"It seems our friends from the Sand are curious about our movements," Konan commented, crossing her arms, her voice laced with distrust.
Ryu stared at the ninja once more, the headband still in his hand. "Do you think Sunagakure can stop us?" he asked, his voice low but heavy with threat. "Your village made a mistake sending someone so... weak." He emphasized the last word, provoking the ninja, who, despite being bound, continued resisting, refusing to give up any information.
With a quick gesture, Ryu ordered the snakes to tighten their grip, not enough to hurt him seriously, but enough to increase the pressure. "I'll ask one last time: what was your mission? Why is Sunagakure interfering with my plans?"
The ninja hesitated again, but this time his eyes betrayed a glimpse of deeper fear. He knew he was facing someone with no limits when it came to getting what they wanted.
Konan gently placed a hand on Ryu's shoulder, drawing his attention. "Maybe it would be better to hand him over to our informants," she suggested. "They have methods that are less... drastic, but equally effective."
Ryu glanced at the bound ninja, his mind swirling with a torrent of thoughts. He considered Konan's suggestion but decided to follow his own instinct.
"Let me try something first." He spoke firmly, taking a step toward the ninja, who was watching him with wide, fearful eyes.
Ryu raised his hand but then hesitated, stopping halfway. His expression hardened, and for a moment, his golden eyes seemed to waver. He felt the weight of the decision he was about to make. Though he had inflicted physical pain on many, inflicting psychological torment was a different territory — one he knew all too well.
His mind was suddenly flooded with memories of his past life. He remembered the times when he was humiliated, ignored, and treated like an insignificant shadow. The hatred and pain he had accumulated over the years seemed to come rushing back with full force.
"Why am I doing this?" he thought, as an increasing discomfort took over him. It felt as if he were on the verge of becoming what he had always despised. His fists clenched so tightly that his nails dug into the palms of his hands, drawing blood. He tasted the metallic tang of his own blood on his lips when he bit down too hard, an unconscious gesture that brought him back to reality.
Ryu pulled back slightly, his gaze softening as he lowered his hand. "I've been oppressed enough in another life. I won't perpetuate this cycle."
He wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand and turned toward the forest around them. With a swift motion, he began performing a series of hand seals. "Summoning Jutsu!" His voice echoed through the clearing, and a glowing seal spread across the ground in a perfect circle. A cloud of smoke appeared, and from it emerged a massive, majestic snake.
The creature was a gleaming white, its golden eyes shining with impressive intelligence. It lifted its head, watching Ryu with an almost ceremonial reverence.
"What do you wish, Master Ryu?" Its voice was sibilant, yet carried undeniable respect.
Ryu pointed to the bound ninja. "Take him to Amegakure," he ordered, his tone calm yet unyielding. "Inform them that he was sent by me. I want him delivered alive and without injury."
The snake nodded in agreement. "Yes, Master Ryu."
With a fluid motion, the snake opened its colossal mouth. Its fangs, as sharp as swords, gleamed in the sunlight, but it maneuvered the ninja carefully, swallowing him whole in a way that avoided harm. Then, with a hissing sound of its scales sliding across the ground, the snake disappeared into the trees, fulfilling its master's command.
Ryu stood still, his eyes fixed on the direction where the creature had vanished. He let out a long sigh, feeling a relief mixed with frustration. "I may be many things, but I will not be a reflection of the monsters that shaped me."
Konan slowly approached, watching him closely. She could sense the internal battle he was fighting, but chose not to press him.
"Let's continue," Ryu said, his voice more controlled. "We still have a mission to complete."
Konan nodded, remaining silent as she followed Ryu. She knew that something in him had changed, and for the first time in a long while, a glimpse of humanity seemed to have emerged from his cold, inhuman core.
The two continued on their path, leaping from branch to branch with fluid and synchronized movements, like shadows dancing between the trees. The sunlight filtering through the canopy created golden patterns on the ground, while the wind gently brushed their faces. Despite the silence between them, there was a sense of shared purpose, a synchronization that transcended words.
As they advanced, the scenery began to transform. The trees, once dense and tangled, became more spaced out, revealing a carefully cultivated clearing. On the horizon, an imposing structure emerged through the foliage. Ryu and Konan stopped on a high branch, watching the location with meticulous attention.
The construction was impressive. The building of the Daimyo of the Land of Rivers exuded refined elegance, with its light stone walls reflecting the golden shine of the sun. Elaborate gardens surrounded the mansion, decorated with bushes trimmed into geometric shapes, flowers in full bloom, and ornamental fountains spilling crystal-clear water into small lakes. Stone statues, depicting mythological creatures, seemed to silently watch over the territory. Large windows revealed luxurious interiors, with finely crafted furniture and delicate fabric curtains. Armed guards patrolled the property, positioned at strategic points like living statues, alert to any signs of threat.
Konan narrowed her eyes, observing the movement of the guards and the layout of the area. Her clinical gaze took in every detail, as if she were already mentally mapping out infiltration routes.
"It seems well-protected," she murmured, keeping her voice low, almost as if the forest itself could hear and betray their presence.
Ryu crossed his arms, an enigmatic smile playing on his lips as he assessed the situation. He quickly noticed that the number of guards and the strict surveillance were proportional to the Daimyo's position, but to him, this was far from an obstacle.
"Well, it's a Daimyo," he replied casually, as if it were obvious. Without waiting for a detailed plan or any form of caution, he leaped directly toward the main gate.
Konan watched him from above, her expression remaining neutral, but her eyes betrayed a faint glimmer of curiosity. She knew that Ryu rarely acted without a clear purpose.
At the gate, the guards immediately assumed a combat stance upon seeing him approach. Swords drawn, they glinted in the sunlight as the two men positioned themselves in front of Ryu, ready to strike. However, when their eyes met his golden gaze, something made them hesitate. There was something about Ryu's posture, the way he stared at them — a mix of calm and authority that made them question their own actions.
Ryu took a step forward, approaching without haste. His hands remained relaxed at his sides, a gesture that didn't reveal hostility, but carried an implicit threat. He gave a soft, almost kind smile, but his eyes remained locked on the guards, as if piercing their souls.
"If you wish to keep your heads on your shoulders," he said, his voice low and controlled, yet undeniably weighted. "I suggest you lower your weapons. Also, I have matters to discuss with the Daimyo of this territory, and it would be a shame to cause unnecessary confusion."
The guards exchanged quick glances, clearly shaken. There was something overwhelming about Ryu's presence, an aura that seemed to stifle any attempt at resistance. Reluctantly, they lowered their swords and took a step back.
Konan silently descended from her position, landing beside Ryu with the grace of a falling leaf. Her eyes observed the guards, and though she said nothing, her presence reinforced Ryu's authority. He slightly raised his chin, indicating that they should clear the way.
The gates were flung open, revealing the paved path that led to the main entrance of the mansion. Ryu took the first step, his confidence unwavering, while Konan followed in silence, her cold expression hiding any trace of thought or emotion.
"It was pretty easy," Ryu remarked, more to himself than to her. He hadn't had to lift a finger to use force.
Walking through the impeccably polished dark wood corridors, the sound of Ryu and Konan's sandals echoed softly, accompanied only by the occasional creak of sliding door hinges closing behind them. The interior of the mansion was luxurious, decorated with silk tapestries, hand-painted panels depicting idyllic landscapes, and porcelain vases placed in ornate niches. Natural light flowed through the large windows, reflecting off the waxed floors that gleamed like mirrors.
Finally, they reached the main room, a spacious area with a flawless tatami mat covering the floor and a carved wooden throne at the elevated center, where the Daimyo of the Land of Rivers sat. He was a middle-aged man, wearing a ceremonial silk kimono, with elaborate patterns of waves and rivers embroidered in silver thread. His face was serious, but carried a veiled expression of curiosity as he assessed the unexpected visitors.
"Who are you?" asked the Daimyo, his voice firm but betraying a hint of nervousness. His eyes shifted from Ryu to Konan, trying to decipher who these bold intruders were.
Ryu took a step forward, with the calm of someone who already knew the outcome of this conversation before it had even begun. He tilted his head slightly, but without losing his composure. His golden eyes, which seemed to pierce into the soul of anyone who met his gaze, were fixed on the Daimyo.
"Akatsuki," Ryu replied, the word sounding like a proclamation. Without waiting for an invitation, he sat down in front of the Daimyo, crossing his legs in a fluid and natural movement. His expression did not change; calm, unperturbed, yet laden with an overwhelming confidence that made the air in the room feel denser.
"And I'll be direct," he continued, his voice carrying a firm tone, but devoid of aggression. "We want your country to be annexed to the Land of Rain."
The way Ryu spoke wasn't a request, nor a veiled threat. It was a simple statement, as if it were already an inevitable reality. Konan remained standing beside him, silent, her eyes carefully observing every movement and expression of the Daimyo, ready to react to any sign of hostility.
The Daimyo raised an eyebrow, surprised by the frankness. He crossed his arms and leaned slightly forward in his throne, trying to regain some control of the situation.
"Why would I agree to something like that?" he asked, his voice now more cautious. "What benefit would the Land of Rivers have by submitting to the rule of the Land of Rain?"
Ryu tilted his head slightly to the side, a barely perceptible smile playing at the corners of his lips.
"Because, Daimyo," he said, pausing for a moment to let the words sink in, "by joining us, your country will be protected. It will have access to resources, military strength, and the stability that the Akatsuki can offer."
Ryu leaned slightly forward, resting one elbow on his knee, his posture relaxed but his presence heavy with authority.
"We also have large quantities of coal, machines, and surplus labor, unlike your country, correct?" His voice was calm yet incisive, and he let the question hang in the air like a silent challenge.
The Daimyo narrowed his eyes, gripping the arms of his throne more tightly. He knew that Ryu had touched on an uncomfortable truth, something he had been trying to hide from any potential rival or ally.
Indeed, the Land of Rivers was struggling with a labor shortage, a chronic problem that was hurting its economy. Most of its workers were concentrated in the Katabami gold mine, a mining town that, while the main economic engine of the region, was insufficient to sustain the overall development of the country. To compensate, the Daimyo had tried to diversify, focusing on agriculture, livestock, and other sectors. However, these efforts had faced serious setbacks.
In recent months, a series of problems emerged along the coast of the Land of Rivers, causing almost total disruption of maritime trade, which was vital for importing and exporting goods. Ships venturing into the sea returned destroyed, their crews terrified, or simply disappeared. Rumors of a colossal creature in the waters were plentiful, describing a giant beast that crushed ships and devastated everything in its path. Many believed it to be a Bijuu or a similar creature, but so far no official investigation had confirmed or denied these stories.
The Daimyo, facing Ryu and Konan, knew he was in a delicate position. He could not refute the arguments presented. His own forces were insufficient to handle the situation, and the damage to maritime trade was pushing his country to the brink.
"And what exactly do you want in exchange for this... 'alliance'?" the Daimyo asked, trying to sound firm, but his voice betrayed a slight hesitation.
Ryu flashed a small smile, tilting his head slightly as if he had already anticipated the question. "What we want is simple. Full control over the trade routes, an official alliance with the Land of Rain, and unrestricted access to local resources. In exchange, we will resolve the problems you're facing – whether on land or at sea. Nothing happens in the Land of Rivers without our approval."
He paused, letting his words echo in the Daimyo's mind. "And, of course, we ensure that your people will prosper under our protection. This is something you, alone, clearly cannot offer."
Konan, who had remained silent until then, added with her calm yet firm voice, "It's an offer that benefits both sides. You will retain your symbolic sovereignty, while we ensure that issues like those on the coast will never again affect your people. Refusing, however..." She left the sentence hanging in the air, her cold gaze completing what the words didn't need to say.
The Daimyo clenched his fists, his gaze wavering between the two. He knew he had no real choice, but he also knew he needed assurances before accepting the offer. "If you truly manage to resolve the issue on the coast, we can negotiate further details. Until then, I cannot accept terms so... absolute."
Ryu smiled, satisfied. "Then we have a temporary agreement. Consider your problem resolved." He stood up, adjusting the black and red cloak of the Akatsuki. "Tell your guards not to interfere while we take care of this. You'll see that the Akatsuki delivers on its promises."
The two moved through the forests and plains that led to the coast, their movements synchronized as they leapt from tree to tree or ran along the ground when the terrain required it. The sound of the wind cutting around them was almost hypnotic, but the tension in the air was palpable.
Konan, ever observant, finally broke the silence. "Ryu, why did you accept this?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity and a hint of concern. She knew Ryu rarely did anything without a plan in mind, but this time, it seemed personal.
Ryu glanced at her from the corner of his eye, offering a calm smile. "I know the Daimyo wanted to get rid of us. He thinks he's sending us to certain death. However..." He paused, jumping to a higher branch before continuing. "...I believe I already know exactly which creature is causing all this chaos."
Konan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what is it?"
Ryu landed on the ground in a fluid motion, stopping and gazing toward the horizon, where the salty scent of the sea began to mingle with the air. He turned to Konan, his eyes glowing with a mix of confidence and anticipation.
"Isobu," he replied, his voice low but laden with meaning. "The Three-Tails."
Konan's eyes widened, clearly surprised. "A Bijuu? That explains the rumors... But how are you so sure? After all, its Jinchuriki died during the war, and it would take years for it to return, right?"
Ryu smiled, his tone taking on a more reflective nuance. "The Bijuu are not creatures that simply 'appear.' They are essentially sentient masses of chakra, and none of them have chakra in equal amounts; all are immense but never the same. Isobu is the third with the least chakra among the Nine, so he regenerates faster than those from the Fourth Tail onward. They always have a purpose, even if they don't know it. Isobu was sealed in Kirigakure for years, but when they tried to use the Jinchuriki as a Trojan horse, they didn't expect him to try to kill himself." He cast a meaningful look at Konan. "My connection to Natural Energy allows me to feel the energies emanating from such powerful creatures. It's unmistakable."
Konan frowned, thoughtful. "If it really is Isobu, facing him won't be easy. Even you, with all your power, could face difficulties."
Ryu smiled wryly, a challenging gleam in his eyes. "Don't underestimate what I learned in the Ryuuchi Cave, Konan. Controlling or defeating Isobu is just a matter of will."
"Then let's deal with it and show the Daimyo that he shouldn't have underestimated us," she said, her voice now full of conviction.
Ryu simply nodded, adjusting his Akatsuki cloak as they moved toward what promised to be an epic battle.