Since the restoration of Nagato, five years had passed. In that time, many changes had taken place within the Akatsuki.
The first was Nagato himself.
The members had finally seen his true appearance. When they realized just how young he was, many were stunned. Still, their surprise quickly faded when they looked toward Ash Ketchum, who was even younger than Nagato. In comparison, everything suddenly felt reasonable.
One of the most affected was the Masked Man.
He and Zetsu had once seen Nagato's former appearance, but now that illusion had vanished completely. This unexpected change caused a significant disruption to the Masked Man's plans. As for what those plans were, only time would reveal them.
As for Haku, the child Ash had taken in years ago—she was now thirteen.
Perhaps due to the influence of this world, Haku appeared closer to fifteen or sixteen. Her temperament remained gentle and reserved, just as it always had been.
Over the years, she had earned the goodwill of nearly every Akatsuki member. At some point, Haku had officially become Ash's attendant. No one knew exactly how it happened—it simply did.
She now handled meal preparation and logistical arrangements for the organization. In truth, Haku had become indispensable. Whenever the Akatsuki carried out missions, everything they needed was prepared in advance by her—except when it came to Zetsu and Orochimaru.
In terms of strength, Haku had reached jōnin level. Combined with her Ice Release (Kekkei Genkai), she was more than capable of matching elite shinobi.
What surprised everyone even more was the progress between Ash and Konan over the past five years.
Though neither of them spoke openly about it, their feelings were obvious. With Nagato no longer confined to isolation, Konan had more opportunities to meet Ash, and familiarity naturally bred affection.
Nagato allowed things to develop freely.
He was optimistic about Ash's potential. Their lives bore striking similarities, and unlike others, Nagato never doubted Ash's loyalty. There was no concern that Ash was an undercover agent from another village. As a result, Ash had personally handled the majority of Akatsuki's missions over the past five years.
"What's the reason for this gathering?"
Within the dimly lit chamber, the Akatsuki assembled at Nagato's summons.
"This time, we are welcoming a new member," Nagato said calmly.
"Uchiha Itachi—the prodigy of the Uchiha Clan of Konoha. To facilitate this, all members will participate in an operation to eradicate the Uchiha Clan."
As Hidan spoke, Ash's eyes narrowed.
So it was already time.
Uchiha Itachi—seventeen years old. A once-in-a-generation genius of Konoha. With his Sharingan, his strength had already reached quasi-Kage level, surpassing even Kakashi Hatake.
"The Uchiha Clan?" someone muttered.
"Isn't that the clan with the Sharingan? Aren't they related to Ash?"
All eyes turned toward Ash.
"Don't look at me," Ash said flatly. "My name is Ash Ketchum, not Uchiha. That cursed clan can be wiped out for all I care—it means nothing to me."
No one questioned him.
Ash's past was well known among high-level shinobi. In the ninja world, his name carried enormous weight, and his background had long since been uncovered.
"The Uchiha Clan numbers over three thousand," Nagato continued.
"This operation must be swift and absolute. No one is to escape."
Ash frowned slightly.
This world was clearly different from the anime he remembered. A clan of three thousand was no small force—their collective strength could not be underestimated.
"I will not participate in this mission," Nagato said before concluding the meeting.
"My Rinnegan is not yet ready to be exposed."
No one objected.
Aside from Nagato, Ash was unquestionably the strongest present. As for which of the two was superior—no one dared to speculate.
"Gather near Konoha in seven days," Ash said.
With that, he vanished in a flash, using the Body Flicker Technique.
Most Akatsuki members were already operating independently across the world. Amegakure was no longer their permanent base.
"An Uchiha genocide… looks like this needs careful planning."
After dispelling the Body Flicker Technique, Ash Ketchum opened his eyes inside the room and spoke softly.
"The Sharingan is a valuable thing. I should collect some."
Ash felt that advancing his ocular abilities was possible, but he still lacked a clear method. That meant he needed spare Sharingan as research material.
"Haku," Ash said as he stepped out of the room, looking toward the girl tidying the place, "help me prepare some saline solution for preservation. As much as possible."
"I understand, brother."
Haku nodded obediently.
She now had snow-white hair, delicate features, and wore a soft pink kimono embroidered with cherry blossoms. Her appearance was gentle and refined, making her stand out even among the Akatsuki.
Between Ash and Haku, however, there was no romance—only familial affection. Perhaps it was due to her childhood experiences, but Ash treated her like family, protecting her with genuine care.
"Ash," Konan said as she approached him, "do you want me to help with this mission?"
"No," Ash replied calmly. "We're enough. You stay here with Haku and wait for me to return."
Seeing Konan standing before him, Ash smiled faintly. He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her into a brief embrace, lowering his voice.
"I'll be back."
"Hey—"
Konan stiffened slightly, her cheeks warming as she gently pushed him back.
"Not here," she said quietly. "Haku is still around. Be serious."
Ash chuckled softly but didn't press further.
...
TN:
⚡ Pa-treon-com/LordMerlin (Support me! 😊)