Seeing "B" and "D" standing obediently behind "A," Orochimaru kept his expression composed, but inside, his thoughts were in turmoil.
Just like the Konoha High Command.
After witnessing "B"'s Complete Susanoo, Orochimaru had already begun to suspect that "B" and "A" might be equals.
After all, "B" was far too powerful. Within the Akatsuki Organization, he could at most be second only to its leader, Pain. It was unlikely he would serve under anyone else.
But now it was clear that "B" wasn't just "A"'s subordinate—he wasn't an ordinary subordinate, either.
Even back when Orochimaru was in the Akatsuki Organization, he wouldn't have been as deferential as "B" was toward "A," not even in front of Pain.
No, this went beyond deference. It was reverence!
And there was more.
"D," standing behind "A" in the form of a Spirit Body and wearing a Hannya Oni mask, was just as respectful.
Maybe it was his imagination, but Orochimaru even sensed a hint of ingratiation in "D"'s manner.
"How is this possible?"
For a moment, Orochimaru was baffled.
He had been part of the Akatsuki Organization. Though its leader, Pain, possessed the Sage's Eyes and was powerful and mysterious, most of the members were also top-tier figures in the Shinobi World, each one unruly and arrogant.
He simply couldn't imagine why powerful ninjas like "B" and "D" would be so obedient toward "A."
Orochimaru's resolve had been shaken, and Shinji immediately sensed it. Seizing the moment, he asked, "What's your answer?"
Orochimaru's expression darkened further.
He could feel the pressure now. He had only felt this kind of pressure once before, when facing Pain—but he didn't want to bow so easily.
After all, in the Shinobi World, he was the one who intimidated others!
Just then,
"D" tilted his head slightly and