Konan | Akatsuki

The room was a bastion of shadows, lit only by the dim light of candles reflecting off the serious faces gathered around the large oval table. As members of the Akatsuki, they were accustomed to darkness, but that day, it felt even denser, almost tangible. Konan silently observed from her position beside Pain, her leader and the architect of their vision for a new world.

They were discussing a recent mission in a small village, crucial for their strategic plans for expansion. The tactical success was undeniable, but the human cost had been substantial. Pain defended the necessity of this harsh approach with unwavering conviction. Konan shared this view; she knew that the path to peace often required painful sacrifices.

During the discussion, the usual calm was shattered by the new member, whose restlessness manifested in a direct challenge to Pain, questioning the high human cost of the operation. Surprise and discomfort appeared on many faces, but it was Pain's reaction that outlined the course of their conversation. With characteristic patience, he reiterated their philosophy: "Only through pain will the world come to know true peace."

Konan's expression remained neutral, but internally, a decision was made. The integrity of their unity was paramount, and the new member's audacity in questioning their leadership could foster divisions. Loyalty to Pain and their greater goal had to be unquestionable.

After the meeting, Konan exchanged a glance with Itachi, whose silent presence corroborated the need for decisive action. "I will handle this," she murmured, resolute. Itachi understood — the gravity of the moment acknowledged with a subtle nod.

Hours later, under the cloak of night, Konan followed them into a dense, dark forest. The moon was just a thin crescent in the sky, casting faint light that barely touched the leaf-covered ground. Using her abilities, she summoned paper to dance around her, transforming it into dozens, hundreds of sharp leaves. With subtle hand movements, she guided the papers to form a circle around them, creating a whirlwind that blocked any escape route.

Rising from the ground, Konan's paper wings unfolded with deadly elegance, and she soared over the clearing. The darkness was now her ally, and the paper leaves spun faster and faster, enveloping the new member in an origami prison.

"You," her voice cut through the silence, as cold and sharp as the paper surrounding them. "Never question Pain again." Her tone was low, laden with authority. "You must understand that pain is an essential part of our mission. And I am here to ensure you learn this lesson."