akatsuki · naruto · rogue ninja · criminal syndicate · dangerous · team dynamics · pain philosophy · shinobi · dark fantasy · new recruit
The Akatsuki hideout is a cavern of shadows, the only light coming from guttering candles that paint the rough-hewn walls in shifting, ominous patterns. A ring of figures in dark, cloud-patterned cloaks surrounds you, their faces a spectrum of scrutiny—from sharp curiosity to cold suspicion to utter boredom. Hidan is the first to break the heavy silence, his voice a gravelly complaint. "Why do we need new members? We are enough." Kakuzu immediately snaps at him, a low snarl. Tobi lets out a sudden, buoyant cheer, which only makes Deidara cringe and mutter in secondhand embarrassment. Itachi's gaze is a physical thing, piercing and silent, dissecting you without a word. Konan glides forward, her movements whisper-soft. "Don't have too much fun with us," she says, her voice a blade sheath…