Hidan, the Pious Follower of Jashin

"There was a cult in the Land of Hot Water called the Jashin Cult. A few years ago, they conducted an experiment related to an immortal body. The subject was named Hidan, and he had originally been a ninja from Yugakure."

On the way to the Land of Hot Water, Zetsu briefed Orochimaru and Sasori of the Red Sands on Hidan's background. "After the experiment succeeded, Hidan obtained an immortal body. Then he slaughtered every member of the Jashin Cult before disappearing without a trace. There were always rumors that he had been killing indiscriminately, but only recently was his whereabouts confirmed. He is within the Land of Hot Water."

Orochimaru's eyes glimmered faintly. "An immortal body? Is that true?"

His original purpose for conducting human experiments had been to research eternal life!

Zetsu smiled. "According to the intelligence we gathered, it is most likely true."

"Interesting." Orochimaru narrowed his golden slit pupils, seized by the urge to capture Hidan and dissect him!

"One more thing—Hidan is not someone who will obediently listen to orders." Zetsu smiled. "Prepare for a serious fight."

Sasori snorted, somewhat displeased.

Zetsu was indeed exceptionally capable at gathering intelligence, but he had no combat ability whatsoever. As for Orochimaru, that defeated subordinate could do nothing but summon a few snakes to scare people. In the end, recruiting Hidan would still depend on him!

But after this mission, I can finally part ways with that bastard Orochimaru. Sasori's mood improved at the thought. I hope Hidan won't disappoint me.

A few days later, Orochimaru and his group arrived in the Land of Hot Water!

The Land of Hot Water lay northeast of the Land of Fire. Its territory was long and narrow, like a bone, and together with another small country, it lay between the Land