Chapter 349: Sweeping Victory
The next day, before dawn, the Akatsuki Organization's army had assembled in full force.
The wheel of history had been altered slightly by Kawakaze's influence, yet some things remained unchanged.
Yahiko stood at the forefront, draped in a long black robe with a stand-up collar, devoid of any red clouds. Behind him stretched a sea of black—an imposing sight against the dim light of dawn. This was the first version of the Akatsuki Organization's uniform, though no one could quite remember when or how it had been designed.
"Set off," Yahiko commanded simply.
There was no rallying speech or pre-battle mobilization. His words alone were enough to set the disciplined army into motion. They understood what this battle meant. By the end of the day, there would be only one voice in the Land of Rain.
The wind whistled through the trees as the army marched, Yahiko and Konan walking at its center. Kakuzu led the vanguard, while Nonō and Nagato brought up the rear, each of them focused on their respective duties.
"Lord Kakuzu, we're almost there," Yūichi Nagashima said nervously, summoning the courage to approach the man. He couldn't shake the lingering fear that Kakuzu inspired—his presence was a stark reminder of the narrow escape he once had from death.
"Prepare to attack," Kakuzu replied curtly, not bothering to glance back. His sharp eyes were already locked on the distant fortifications of the wandering ninja.
"Yes, Lord Kakuzu."
A low chorus of acknowledgments rippled through the group, and Yūichi gripped the hilt of his blade tightly, staying close to Kakuzu. The man's authority was forged through bloodshed, and no one dared to falter under his command.
Minutes later, they closed in on the enemy's fortifications. At this range, discovery was inevitable—only seconds separated them from the enemy's gaze.