Naruto: Did i Just Get Reincarnated as Gojo?

Chapter 160: It's Not What You Think, Nagato. Really...

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Konan glared at Black Zetsu, her eyes blazing. "Enough! That's disgusting. I won't allow it. Nagato wouldn't either. Give up."

With that, she turned and left, her back to Black Zetsu, her disapproval palpable.

"My, my. Such a strong reaction. But your opinion it doesn't matter. Nagato will agree. He always does."

...

"Nagato~"

Pain, in Yahiko's body, stood atop the highest tower in Amegakure, overlooking the village.

Sensing Zetsu's approach, he glanced back. "What is it?"

"There's something we need to discuss."

"Organizational matters? Speak with Konan."

"She disagrees."

"Then there's no need to discuss it with me. Her will is my will."

Konan was the only person left in the world who shared a genuine bond with him. He trusted her implicitly.

"But, Nagato, this is different. I believe Konan's personal feelings are clouding her judgment. You know me. I always prioritize the Akatsuki's interests. But Konan's emotional response has dampened my enthusiasm."

In a way, Gojo Kaigetsu and Black Zetsu were two sides of the same coin.

Gojo served Konoha; Black Zetsu, his mother.

Gojo nurtured Konoha's younger generation; Black Zetsu recruited Missing-nin. Gojo promoted legitimate businesses; Black Zetsu sought alternative revenue streams.

Pain considered this. He'd always been wary of Zetsu, but he had to admit, Zetsu's dedication to the Akatsuki was undeniable.

Perhaps there was more to this?

"Explain."

"Kakuzu was killed during the Gojo Kaigetsu assassination attempt. He was ambushed by Konoha ninja, including the Third Hokage himself. As you know, Kakuzu handled the organization's finances. Without him, we're struggling. We need to maintain our relationship with Amegakure's leadership, supply Sasori and Konan with essential materials, and fund your charitable donations to the villagers. Money isn't everything, but it's essential, especially at this stage."

Pain frowned. So, Konan's objection was financial? That didn't seem right. She'd always been resourceful.

"Hiruko's Edo Tensei it's not very effective for resurrecting powerful ninja. But for ordinary people it works well enough. I'm suggesting we have him resurrect attractive men and women. With a few modifications to improve their appearance. Then, we'll send them to the Land of Fire, the Land of Water, to provide services. Those wealthy nobles and merchants they've experienced everything. But Edo Tensei companions? That's a novelty. We'll corner the market."

Black Zetsu's explanation it was unexpected.

Pain, at nineteen, hadn't experienced such things.

But he understood why Konan had objected. From a kunoichi's perspective, it was unacceptable.

The Edo Tensei he'd seen Hiruko use it.

But disregarding the ethics, it was a viable business model.

Nagato, having grown up in war-torn Amegakure, understood the depths of human depravity.

Those wealthy nobles and merchants they'd often set up establishments in the ruins, offering food and shelter in exchange for children. And days later the children's bodies would be found, discarded like trash.