*Chapter 27: The Temple's Secrets*

Deep within the temple, they discovered a large chamber with a pedestal at its center. On the pedestal rested a gleaming crystal, its surface glowing with an ethereal light.

"This must be the artifact," Jiraiya said, his eyes fixed on the crystal. "We need to secure it before the Akatsuki arrives."

Suddenly, the air grew cold, and the flickering torches cast long shadows on the walls. From the darkness emerged two Akatsuki members: Kisame Hoshigaki and Itachi Uchiha.

"Ah, how predictable," Itachi said, his voice cold and detached. "You've come to interfere with our plans again."

Kisame, wielding his large sword Samehada, grinned. "Looks like we'll have to deal with you first before we can take what we came for."

Himanshu's Sharingan activated, his eyes narrowing at the sight of his former older brother. Divyansh prepared for battle, his determination unwavering.

Jiraiya stepped forward, his demeanor serious. "We won't let you take the artifact. Not this time."