Is that so?
Since that was the case, there was no need to say anything more. Saying more would only make things worse.
So be it.
After sensing the intent behind Orochimaru's words, Hada Ichiba glanced at him and suddenly smiled.
At first glance, it seemed like a smile of understanding, but upon closer consideration, it carried a deeper meaning.
Then, with that smile still on his face, Hada Ichiba turned around and headed back the way he had come, toward the two children from Kusagakure.
What... does that mean? Watching Hada Ichiba's retreating back, the astonishment on Orochimaru's face flickered away, only to become a hesitant alarm.
What did that smile mean? Was he saying he understood?
Did he know he could not touch me, so he obediently went back? Or...
Had he known this all along and already prepared a countermeasure?
Which was it...?
The next second, his mind was abruptly filled with that string of thoughts.
That smile had come too suddenly for Orochimaru, and it threw him slightly off balance.
To be honest, he had not expected Hada Ichiba to simply leave like that.
Originally...
Well, although he had no idea how Hada Ichiba would have refuted him after hearing those words, what did it mean for him to leave without saying a word, while leaving behind such a meaningful smile? He could not fathom it.
By his estimation, although he had already stated his position and laid out his advantage, he did not believe Hada Ichiba would let the matter end so easily. Whether this Hada Ichiba truly was Taki Chiba or not, if he had suddenly come here and declared himself to be Taki Chiba, then he had to have a purpose.
And given that he had declared such an intimidating name, whatever plans