.....
At the outskirts of Konoha Village, looking at the group of ninjas gradually approaching from afar, even though he lacked such an organ, Mōryō somehow felt his heartbeat accelerating.
This was of course not because the ninjas opposite posed a threat to him, but because of that figure who had nearly killed him several times.
"Can that Akatsuki leader really deal with that monster? If he can't, I won't stay here with you all forever. She has a very good relationship with the priestess—if she really frees up her hand, her first target will definitely be me."
Looking at Obito who had appeared beside him at some point, Mōryō also lowered his voice to express his stance. Although he had escaped death several times in battles against Furina, those encounters had truly left him with some psychological shadows.
If possible, he really didn't want to come here. He had zero interest in collecting tailed beasts, but Obito understood his needs all too well.
With one sentence—that if he didn't act this time, it would be hard for him to have another chance to devour the priestess—he had directly put him on the spot.
Thus, after considering that this was probably his only opportunity in this lifetime, Mōryō still came. But coming was one thing—deep down he still felt extremely uncertain.
"Don't worry. Those are the same eyes as the legendary Sage of Six Paths; they should be able to deal with her. And even if he really can't win, I can step in to help. I'm sure you're well aware of that."
"Alright then, leave her to you guys. As for these people—leave them to me."
As the two spoke, the ninjas rushing out from Konoha Village were already within reach. The forehead protectors they wore were all different, representing various ninja villages, but the one common point was that they were all strong—famous ninjas from each village.
This was also the result after discussion. After understanding that every Akatsuki member possessed extraordinary strength, the main force to deal with them would be the stronger ninjas from each village.
As for ordinary chūnin and genin, in battles of this level they could hardly play any role and might even get in the way at times. Their tasks had therefore become evacuating civilians and maintaining order.
"Mm, then I'll leave it to you."
Although Mōryō appeared very proactive, Obito knew the other was just looking to pick on the soft persimmons. From this it could also be seen that by now Mōryō had completely lost his initial arrogance. After repeated setbacks, he had instead become rather sneaky.
However, Obito did not expose him. In this battle, he had never counted on the other to begin with. As long as he could attract attention here, that was enough. The key to the fight still rested on him and Nagato.
"Don't even think about running..."
The approaching ninjas, upon hearing the conversation between the two, had just wanted to intervene when Obito's figure instantly vanished. Immediately after, an unusual surge of massive chakra erupted—dark, chilling, as if it were a collection of negative emotions.
"What kind of monster is this?"
"According to intelligence, he should be that monster from the Land of Demons—Mōryō. His strength is very great. Everyone, be careful."
Looking at the enormous true form that Mōryō revealed, the encircling ninjas all felt a chill run down their spines, cold sweat involuntarily breaking out on their foreheads.
"Hahahaha, I am indeed Mōryō, but let's skip the 'monster' part, shall we? Among you lot, there are some who fit that description far better."
Seeing the stunned expressions of the ninjas below, Mōryō's originally sour mood finally improved somewhat. He couldn't deal with that person, but when it came to the others, the roles were reversed.