Chapter 169 - 64: The First Glimpse of Akatsuki’s Shadow
"Leader Yahiko, we've got a big one!"
Itaten Kyosuke burst into the office of Akatsuki's headquarters, excitement lighting up his face as he waved a piece of paper in his hand.
"Calm down. Have a seat and take a sip of water first," said Yahiko, smiling as he took the report handed over by Nagato. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.
"An assassination mission?! The target is the head of Iwagakure's Anbu—Shu! The reward is 80 million ryo!"
Yahiko fell silent, deep in thought.
At this point, Akatsuki had been established for over a year. Much like its portrayal in the original manga, the early Akatsuki was a left-leaning pacifist militant group. Initially, it consisted only of Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan, who upheld the ninja ideals instilled in them by Jiraiya. They worked tirelessly to change their war-torn country with their abilities.
Although the Second Shinobi World War had ended, localized conflicts and skirmishes persisted, especially in a crossroads nation like the Land of Rain. The remnants of Sunagakure's sand bandits, defeated Kirigakure ninjas, and rogue shinobi from Iwagakure and Konohagakure often came to the Land of Rain to "reap benefits."
Why? Because they could. Ever since the "Demi-God" Hanzō of the Salamander was gone, the military strength of Amegakure had plummeted. The "Dawn Uprising" nine years ago further exposed its vulnerability, revealing Nōshin Kinkō's incompetence as the Rain's leader.
A civilian uprising had not only looted the Rain's administrative building but nearly captured the Rain leader himself. This marked Amegakure as an easy target, turning it into a haven for failed rebels and opportunists. Almost anyone could come and take what they wanted.