Chapter 128: Sharpening the Knife
"Ever since the Uchiha took power in Konoha, the village’s barrier has clearly undergone significant changes. Its strength now far surpasses what it once was. It seems the Uzumaki clan has been quietly working in the shadows," Black Zetsu muttered as he observed from afar.
He knew very well what could truly threaten his existence in the shinobi world: the Six Paths power, Yin-Yang Release, senjutsu—and sealing techniques. The Uzumaki clan, unrivaled in sealing arts, had not only survived but innovated during their years within Konoha.
"The Uzumaki clan should’ve been erased long ago. It’s a mistake that they were allowed to integrate into Konoha. I wonder what spell Uchiha Xiuyu cast on them."
Obito stood nearby, his expression hidden behind the cold mask. His feelings about Konoha remained twisted and bitter. He’d turned against his former master during the Nine-Tails Rebellion, but Konoha had never been easy prey.
"Kumogakure may have lost before, but if the Four Great Ninja Villages unite this time, will Konoha be able to withstand them again? If Konoha falls, the rest of the world will follow. The Moon Eye Plan could proceed more smoothly," he said.
"What’s Nagato’s status?"
"Still adapting to the Rinnegan," Black Zetsu replied with a grim tone. "He hasn’t fully mastered it. Capturing the Tailed Beasts will still take years. The bigger problem is Akatsuki’s manpower—Orochimaru’s gone, Biwa Juzo is dead. We’re short-handed."
"How’s recruitment going?"
Black Zetsu scoffed. "How do you think? Not well."
Obito let out a quiet breath. "Fine. I’ll handle it. But for now, our priority is preparing for the Chunin Exams."
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In Konoha, the news had already spread.