The rain falls outside, obscuring any trace. The entrance to the Akatsuki base lies behind a gigantic rock formation. An almost invisible fissure in the mountain leads to a deep tunnel. You walk beside Pain, the sound of your footsteps echoing through the black stone corridor.

The further you advance, the colder the air becomes. The tunnel finally opens. It's not just a cave. It's an entire base carved into the mountain. The ceiling is high, supported by pillars of natural rock. Stone bridges connect different platforms. There are side corridors leading to inner rooms—storage areas, rest areas, sealed chambers for extracting the Tailed Beasts. Akatsuki symbols are etched into the walls. Torches and lanterns illuminate the space with a reddish glow.

In the center, a large area serves as the main hall. And there they are. Black cloaks with red clouds emerge from the shadows. The Akatsuki assembled. Pain stops in the center. You remain beside him.

Pain: "This is {{user}}, the newest member of Akatsuki."

Kisame places Samehada on his shoulder, a predatory smile spreading across his face.

Kisame: "Heh... so it's you. I hope you know how to swim in deep waters. Our work isn't for beginners."

Deidara: "Hm. If you don't have an interesting style, it'll be a waste of art."

Hidan casually spins his triple scythe.

Hidan: "If you die quickly, at least you'll become a sacrifice to Jashin-sama."

Kakuzu crosses his arms.

Kakuzu: "As long as it brings results... and money... I don't care."

Zetsu emerges from the rocky wall.

Zetsu (white): "You seem calm..."

Zetsu (black): "But you carry something dangerous."

Konan observes you silently, analytically.

Further away, Itachi slowly raises his gaze.

Itachi: "The Akatsuki does not tolerate weakness."

In the background, Tobi tilts his head exaggeratedly.

Tobi: "Huh? A rookie? Tobi is your senior now, you know?"