173 Ch-173 Itachi departs.

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...

Jiryoku wandered aimlessly through various locales, his movements imbued with purpose despite their seemingly casual nature. While he journeyed without a specific destination in mind, his keen senses remained attuned to any potential clues regarding Jigen's whereabouts. He was determined to uncover any leads pertaining to Jigen, especially considering his calculations suggested that Kara must have already become active.

His approach was subtle and discreet; he made no overt displays of his intentions. Instead, he relied on his honed 'Observation Haki' to guide him through his explorations. Every step he took was infused with anticipation, hopeful that each turn or encounter might yield valuable insights into the elusive Jigen. Yet, he also understood the fickleness of fate, recognizing that sometimes, despite his best efforts, certain truths remained elusive.

Even in the event that Jiryoku manages to ascertain Jigen's whereabouts, he remains hesitant to take any decisive action. This reluctance stems from his lack of confidence in his own strength to overcome Jigen. While Jiryoku acknowledges that his current capabilities may allow him to agitate Jigen or evade him in combat, the prospect of outright defeating Jigen appears insurmountable. Moreover, considering the potential scenario wherein Isshiki unveils his true form, Jiryoku recognizes that his existing strength would be wholly inadequate to confront such a formidable enemy.

Jiryoku continued to roam, and predictably, he found nothing. This outcome was well within his expectations, considering that the 'Kara Organization' was located in an entirely different dimension. The likelihood of stumbling upon any leads was incredibly slim, and he accepted that if, by some stroke of luck, he did come across something, it would be a stroke of good fortune. If not, then so be it.

----

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks passed by, Nagato diligently labored until finally, after a span of three weeks, every task was completed, and all the tailed beasts, save for the Eight-Tails and Nine-Tails, were securely sealed away.

Approaching the 'Deva Path' with a sense of resolve, Itachi conveyed his intentions, stating, "The impending clash with my younger brother, Uchiha Sasuke, approaches swiftly. Therefore, I must take my leave now. Should fortune favour me in this battle and grant me survival, I promise to return with all due haste."

The spectre of Itachi's imminent battle loomed over everyone present, the stakes clear to all: in this fateful confrontation, only one of the brothers would emerge victorious, an outcome predetermined and unalterable.

"Alright then, 'White Zetsu' will accompany you. I trust you'll uphold your end of the bargain," remarked Nagato.

Itachi nodded in acknowledgment before taking his leave.

"Do you think we should assign someone else to accompany him?" queried Konan.

Nagato shook his head. "Not necessary. Obito assured me he'll take care of it personally."

Konan nodded in understanding, choosing to remain silent thereafter.

"Each of you, ensure you get proper rest. Once the outcome of this battle is determined, we will proceed with our plan to capture the Eight-Tails," declared the 'Deva Path' before departing.

---

Simultaneously, as Itachi bid farewell to the Akatsuki organization, in the Hokage's office of Konoha...

"Granny Tsunade, I've successfully mastered the Sage Mode!" Naruto exclaimed, his excitement palpable as he stood beside Fukasaku and Shima.

Upon hearing this news, Jiraiya and Tsunade exchanged nods of approval, their smiles reflecting a sense of relief. Kakashi and Sakura, too, joined in, sharing the collective joy.

Overflowing with enthusiasm, Naruto eagerly proposed, "Allow me to demonstrate my Sage Mode abilities!" eager to showcase his newfound prowess to his mentors.

Instantly, Naruto seated himself in the Lotus position, focusing his chakra, and within a mere five minutes, he successfully entered the Sage Mode. As his concentration deepened, his eyelids took on a vibrant orange hue, and his pupils transformed to resemble those of a toad.

Jiraiya and Tsunade, who were familiar with the Sage Mode, were able to discern the extraordinary nature of Naruto's transformation. Naruto's transition was remarkably close to achieving the "Perfect Sage Mode," which astonished them both.

At that precise moment, Yamato briskly entered the Hokage's office, delivering urgent news to Tsunade as he handed her a document. "Lady Hokage, we've just received intel on the movements of Uchiha Sasuke."

"Sasuke!?" Naruto exclaimed, his surprise quickly giving way to excitement. "Granny, please, you must tell me his whereabouts at once. This time, I'm determined to bring him back to Konoha, no matter what."

Sakura, too, turned her gaze towards Tsunade, her eyes reflecting a sense of hopeful expectation as she awaited the Hokage's response.

"Calm down, Naruto. Lady Hokage will provide us with the necessary information," Kakashi interjected, his tone soothing.

"Is his purpose unknown?" Tsunade inquired, her gaze shifting to Yamato for clarification.

"Indeed, we were unable to ascertain Uchiha Sasuke's intentions. However, judging by the urgency of his recent movements, it's safe to conclude that the matter at hand holds significant importance," Yamato elaborated, his expression serious yet thoughtful.

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