Chapter 206 - 101: The Storm
"Form up!"
Yahiko’s voice carried a grim determination as he issued the order.
In mere moments, the black-clad members of the Akatsuki assembled into a precise formation, ten rows by one hundred columns, creating a perfect square.
None of them wore the signature black cloaks with red clouds, nor the wind chime hats, and not even the Amegakure forehead protectors. Their attire was simple: black combat uniforms and masks.
This force of one thousand shinobi represented the very core of the Akatsuki’s strength—ninjas whom Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan had painstakingly recruited and trained over the years. It was their entire foundation.
The group comprised 98 jonin, 430 chunin, and 562 genin. This was the Akatsuki’s elite force, though to outsiders, it might seem like a modest number.
"I won’t say much. This battle determines the life and death of Amegakure. I hope every one of you will follow orders to the letter. I’m counting on you," Yahiko said, bowing deeply to the assembled shinobi.
"Move out!"
Rising from his bow, Yahiko raised his ninja blade high, signaling the start of the operation. Under the cover of darkness, the force began their march toward Sunagakure.
But there was something curious about Yahiko’s words. Shouldn’t a mission of life and death inspire calls for bravery and valor? Why had he emphasized "following orders" instead?
The answer lay in Mujima’s masterful negotiation skills.