In the dimly lit Akatsuki hideout, the atmosphere was tense as the members gathered for a report. Their shadowy figures stood around the holographic projection of Pain, their de facto leader, as Itachi stepped forward to speak. His calm, composed voice echoed slightly through the chamber.

"It went as expected," Itachi began. "Kisame and I managed to retrieve Deidara before Naruto and his team could take him. There were no significant casualties on our side."

Deidara, standing nearby, crossed his arms, still clearly annoyed at how close he had come to being captured. "Hmph. That brat was more trouble than I expected," he muttered. "But next time, I'll show him real art."

Pain's Rinnegan eyes focused on Itachi for a moment before turning toward Kakuzu. "And what of the Hidden Stone Village?"

Kakuzu, with his emotionless gaze, looked up. "It's done," he said. "The Hidden Stone has been manipulated into attacking the Hidden Sand. They believe they're hunting down a dangerous ninja—though they have no idea the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki is their true target. This conflict will distract both villages long enough for us to move freely."

Pain nodded slowly. "Good. With both villages at odds, our efforts to capture the remaining tailed beasts will continue without interference. The Leaf and Sand will be weakened, and the Mist will not involve itself while they deal with their internal matters. Everything is proceeding as planned."

Tobi stepped forward, his voice breaking the quiet. His usual playful tone cut through the tension.

"Actually, I've got a little plan in mind," Tobi began, earning glances from the other members. "Deidara and I will be heading to the Hidden Mist to capture the Three-Tails. It's been lurking around there for a while, and I think it's about time we wrap that up."

Deidara's face twisted in annoyance. "Tch. Not with you, I won't. Can I switch partners, Pain? Tobi's an idiot," he muttered, crossing his arms.

Tobi, unfazed by Deidara's complaints, waved his hand dismissively. "Aw, come on, Deidara-senpai! Cheer up! We'll make a great team. Besides, you get to blow stuff up, and I get to…well, be awesome. It'll be fun!"

Pain's expression didn't change as he regarded Deidara and Tobi. "No," he said simply. "You will go together. We don't have time to be making unnecessary changes. Capture the Three-Tails swiftly. Fail, and it will cost you."

Deidara gritted his teeth, clearly displeased but knowing better than to push the issue further. "Fine, whatever. But don't get in my way, Tobi."

Tobi, ever the cheerful one, gave Deidara a thumbs-up. "You can count on me, senpai! Just point, and I'll…well, I'll figure it out!"

Kisame stood quietly in the dimly lit room, his shark-like grin only widening as he listened to the mission updates. His massive sword, Samehada, rested on his shoulder as he stepped forward, addressing Pain with a deep, rumbling voice.

"So, what about me and Itachi?" Kisame asked, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Should we handle backup, or do we get to have some fun of our own?"

Pain turned to face him, his Rinnegan eyes impassive. "You and Itachi will serve as backup for Hidan and Kakuzu. The Hidden Stone Village will be attacking the Sand soon, creating an opportunity for them to sneak in and capture the Four-Tails and the Five-Tails. Your job is to ensure their success if they meet any resistance."

Kisame's grin widened. "Sounds like a plan. Two jinchūriki, huh? Should be an entertaining hunt."

Pain's expression remained cold as he added, "Do not underestimate the jinchūriki or the forces they may bring. The Hidden Stone and Sand Villages will be on high alert, and the Leaf may interfere if they learn of our movements. This needs to be a quick, silent operation. If anything goes wrong, you and Itachi will handle it."

Itachi, standing quietly beside Kisame, gave a brief nod. He was more focused on the task at hand, understanding the complexity of the situation and the potential for interference from Naruto and the other jinchūriki.

Kisame, still smiling, gave a wave of his hand. "Alright, alright, we'll make sure to keep it quiet. But if things get too boring, I might stir up some trouble."

Deidara stormed out of the meeting room, visibly irritated by Tobi's incessant antics. His fists clenched, and he muttered to himself about how useless Tobi was, though he had to admit, the mission ahead would require precision, something Tobi could offer if he wasn't being a fool. He silently began molding his clay, focusing on preparing the explosive art he would need for the upcoming task.

Outside the cave, far from the others' sight, Tobi reappeared in an instant, his demeanor completely different. His playful tone was gone, replaced by a cold, calculated voice as he assessed the situation ahead. "I almost forgot about the Six-Tails… hidden away in the Mist. If we go after the Three-Tails, it might draw unwanted attention. The Mist is still rebuilding, but if the Leaf or the Sand catch wind of this, we'll be forced to retreat."

He paced silently, his mind already calculating multiple outcomes and contingencies. The Three-Tails would be easier to locate, but with the Hidden Mist's interest in regaining strength, it could complicate their efforts. The Six-Tails, however, posed a different challenge altogether. "Timing will be crucial. If I act too early, they'll be onto us."

Tobi's red Sharingan glowed in the dim light as he gazed out over the landscape, thinking of the larger plan in motion. "No mistakes can be made… not if we're to capture both the Three-Tails and Six-Tails. Perhaps… a distraction might be in order." He smirked under his mask, plotting how to manipulate the situation to his advantage.

Tobi stood outside, alone in the shadows, when Black Zetsu emerged from the earth nearby. The eerie figure moved with an almost fluid grace, his presence silent but heavy with intent. Black Zetsu wasted no time and relayed his information to Tobi, "Madara, I've gathered intelligence. Jiraiya is leaving the Leaf Village, heading toward the Hidden Rain Village to investigate."

Tobi, or rather Madara, paused for a moment as an idea took shape in his mind. His gaze darkened behind his mask as the wheels began to turn. "Jiraiya… that fool," he mused. "He's making his move, but it will cost him dearly." A smile crept onto his hidden face. "This is perfect timing."

Madara's voice sharpened as he turned toward Black Zetsu. "Tell Pain it's time. The Leaf Village has been a thorn in our side long enough. With Jiraiya away, they'll be vulnerable. Let Pain launch an assault on the Leaf Village and crush it. The destruction of the Leaf will create chaos, and while every other village scrambles to deal with it, we will move to capture the Tailed Beasts. The Hidden Rain will never suspect his arrival is a trap, and it will distract the other villages, buying us more time to complete our plans."

Black Zetsu's dark eyes gleamed with malice, nodding in understanding. "I will relay the message to Pain."

Madara crossed his arms, his thoughts already racing ahead. "Make sure Pain understands that this will be the perfect distraction. The other villages will focus on Konoha's destruction, and while they scramble to recover, we'll collect what we need. Jiraiya's foolish attempt to spy will only hasten his village's demise."

Zetsu slipped back into the earth, leaving Madara alone in the silence once more. He stared into the horizon, his mind already calculating the next steps.

Black Zetsu materialized before Pain in the dimly lit chamber of the Akatsuki hideout, his presence commanding and ominous. Pain, the leader of the Akatsuki, was deep in thought, considering their next moves when he noticed Zetsu's sudden arrival.

"What is it?" Pain asked, his voice steady and piercing, the Rinnegan in his eyes reflecting his curiosity and intensity.

"I bring crucial intelligence," Black Zetsu replied, his voice smooth and unyielding. "Jiraiya has left the Leaf Village, heading toward the Hidden Rain Village. He intends to investigate the recent activities in the region."

Pain's expression hardened. "And you believe this gives us an opening?"

"Indeed," Zetsu continued, leaning closer, his tone urgent. "With Jiraiya away, the Leaf Village will be vulnerable. They lack military power and do not possess any Tailed Beasts of their own to defend against an attack. Now is the perfect time to strike and destroy the Leaf."

Pain's eyes narrowed as he considered Zetsu's words. He knew that a well-timed attack could significantly weaken the village's influence. "What of the other villages? They may take advantage of our distraction."

Zetsu waved a hand dismissively. "While they are preoccupied with their own agendas, we can unleash chaos upon Konoha. The fear and destruction we create will draw attention away from our operations elsewhere. They won't be able to afford to focus on more than one threat at a time."

Pain's expression shifted from contemplation to determination. He understood the stakes and the potential to eliminate a significant player in the ninja world. "Very well. I will prepare and head there myself. If I can strike swiftly and decisively, I can cripple Konoha before they have a chance to respond."

As Black Zetsu vanished into the shadows, Pain turned his attention to Konan, who had been silently observing the conversation. Her expression was calm, but a flicker of concern passed through her eyes as Pain outlined his plan.

"Konan," Pain said, his voice firm, "I need you to deal with Jiraiya. He poses a threat to our operations if he discovers our intentions. You are the best suited for this task."

Konan nodded, her mind already calculating the best approach. "Understood. Jiraiya is strong, but I will not let him interfere with our plans. I can create an illusion to mislead him or, if necessary, confront him directly."

Pain regarded her with respect. "Use whatever means necessary."

"Consider it done," Konan replied, determination settling over her features. She turned to leave but paused, looking back at Pain. "And what if Jiraiya proves more difficult than anticipated?"

Pain's gaze hardened, revealing his ruthless nature. "Then eliminate him. We cannot allow personal feelings or attachments to cloud our judgment. The success of our mission depends on our ability to act without hesitation."

With a final nod, Konan departed to make her preparations, leaving Pain alone in the dim chamber. He stood in silence, contemplating the storm that was about to unleash itself upon the Hidden Leaf Village.

As Kisame and Itachi made their way through the dense forest toward the nearby village, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Kisame, always one to provoke, glanced sideways at Itachi, a teasing smirk on his face. "So, what are you going to do about your little brother, Sasuke? It's been a while since you've heard from him. I thought you might've missed him by now."

Itachi remained stoic, his dark eyes fixed ahead. "I want to investigate that matter before we head out to back up Hidan and Kakuzu. Sasuke is… unpredictable. I need to understand where he stands before I make any moves."

Kisame chuckled, his shark-like grin widening. "What's the matter? Afraid he'll come after you? He's still just a kid, even if he's been training under Orochimaru. You've got nothing to worry about. But it would be a shame to lose such a promising little brother."

The weight of Kisame's words lingered in the air as they continued their journey. Itachi's thoughts drifted momentarily to his younger brother. He remembered the fierce determination in Sasuke's eyes, the desire for power that had driven him down a dark path. Itachi understood that their paths were bound to cross again, and when they did, he would have to confront not just Sasuke, but also the ghosts of their shared past.

As they approached the village, the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows on the ground. The tension of the upcoming battles loomed over them, but the camaraderie between Itachi and Kisame provided a momentary distraction. They would fulfill their roles within the Akatsuki, but the bond of brotherhood, even one tinged with animosity, would remain a haunting reminder of the weight of their choices.

"Let's get this over with," Itachi said, breaking the silence. "We have a village to scout and allies to support. Afterward, I'll make my decision regarding Sasuke."

In another far away village in the outskirts of the forest, Sasuke walked alongside Suigetsu, Karin, and Jugo, the tension in the air was palpable. The group navigated through the dense underbrush, the fading light casting elongated shadows on the forest floor. Suigetsu, leaning against a tree and clearly exhausted, let out a frustrated sigh.

"Seriously, Sasuke, could you explain again why we're sneaking into the Hidden Leaf Village? I'm not sure I can handle another long-winded plan right now," Suigetsu grumbled, rubbing the back of his neck.

Karin, sharp as ever, turned quickly and smacked Suigetsu on the head. "Shut up! If you had been paying attention instead of daydreaming about food, you'd understand the importance of this mission!"

Sasuke walked ahead, a determined look etched on his face. "We're going to the Hidden Leaf to obtain jutsu from the Uchiha clan's archives. I need to strengthen my abilities if I'm going to stand a chance against Itachi—and Naruto."

The mention of Naruto sent a flicker of emotion through Sasuke, one he had tried to suppress. He couldn't shake the memories of their past battles, the bond they once shared, and the unspoken rivalry that had grown more intense with each encounter. Naruto was no longer the carefree boy he had once known; he had become a formidable opponent.

"Are you really going to put yourself through all this just to catch up to him?" Suigetsu asked, his voice laced with skepticism. "I mean, there are plenty of other ways to get stronger without sneaking into your old village."

"I can't afford to take any chances," Sasuke replied, his tone resolute. "I need to understand my clan's power fully. If I want to defeat Itachi and keep my promise to bring my clan's legacy back, I must harness every advantage I can find."

Jugo, who had been quiet until now, stepped forward, his voice low and serious. "You're sure about this, Sasuke? The Leaf isn't just any village. It's where everything started for you—the good and the bad. Are you ready to confront those memories?"

Sasuke paused, allowing Jugo's words to sink in. Memories of his childhood flashed through his mind—playing with his brother, the warmth of his family, the day everything had been taken away. He clenched his fists, determination surging within him. "I'm ready. I've accepted my past, and I need to face it to move forward. For my clan. For my brother. For myself."

Karin nodded, sensing Sasuke's conviction. "Then let's do this. We'll get in and out without drawing too much attention. We're a team, after all. Just stick to the plan."

"Yeah, yeah, I get it. Just make sure we don't get caught, or I swear I'll take the blame!" Suigetsu replied, still slightly miffed from Karin's earlier smack. He stretched his arms, readying himself for the task ahead.

As they navigated the outskirts of the Hidden Leaf Village, Jugo glanced at Sasuke, curiosity evident on his face. "Hey, Sasuke, why hasn't Orochimaru gathered all this stuff for you? I thought he'd want to equip you with everything you needed to become stronger."

Sasuke's expression darkened at the mention of Orochimaru. "Orochimaru was busy being sick. It was a good thing I killed him before he could carry out his twisted plans. He may have wanted to use me as a pawn, but I refuse to be anyone's tool."

Jugo nodded, understanding the weight of Sasuke's words. "That makes sense. You're on your own path now, right?"

"Exactly," Sasuke replied, determination in his voice. "I need to forge my own strength, not rely on someone else's resources. Besides, I can't trust him. I never could."

Suigetsu, who had been listening quietly, jumped into the conversation, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Speaking of resources, once we're done here, I really want to head to the Hidden Mist Village. I've heard rumors about those demon mist swords, and I'd love to get my hands on one! Just imagine the power!" He swung his sword excitedly, making exaggerated slashing motions.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly. "Sure, we'll do that after this mission. But focus on what's ahead. The Leaf is more fortified than it was back then, and we need to be careful. The last thing we want is to attract attention."

Suigetsu rolled his eyes but nodded in agreement. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. Just thought it'd be nice to have some backup if things go south. Those swords are no joke."

"Not to mention you might get caught up in your fantasies and blow our cover," Karin interjected, shooting him a warning look. "Stay sharp, Suigetsu."

"Fine, fine," he replied with a mock pout. "I'll behave. But as soon as we're done with this boring village infiltration, I'm heading for that sword!"