Summoning: Demonic Statue of the Outer Path

The user can summon the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path, which releases multiple black rods from its abdomen that pierce into the summoner's back. When the rods are in place, Nagato uses the statue to spew a dragon-like creature from its mouth, which removes the souls of any person it comes in contact with. After serving its purpose, the black rods break off and remain embedded in Nagato's back while the statue disappears. The technique seems to take a considerable toll on Nagato, who becomes more and more emaciated for the duration of the technique. This began the moment the black rods penetrated his body.

Influences

 * As with many of Nagato's techniques, it is influenced by Buddhist terminology., derived from the Sanskrit Tīrthika, refers to any doctrine which "treads the outer path" to enlightenment. This is opposed to the teachings of orthodox Buddhism, the , and is thus considered misguided and heretical.