Orochimaru is not flustered

In Takigakure, Deidara and Kaede took Haku and the recently arrived Jugo around every day to test explosions, calling it "appreciating art." They practically bombed the entire outer perimeter of Takigakure into a smoky mess.

Takigakure's leader, Shibuki, had no choice but to step in. Unfortunately, Deidara showed him no respect. In the end, the aggrieved Shibuki sought out Houka's Shadow Clone, which finally got Deidara to settle down.

But the peaceful days lasted less than two days before unexpected visitors shattered the calm.

Houka's recovery of his Mangekyou ocular power had been exposed to Akatsuki during his battle with Uchiha Itachi and Kisame Hoshigaki.

Interestingly, Yakushi Kabuto had been sent by Sasori to Konohagakure as a spy before that battle, while Orochimaru had also been preparing to make a move against Uchiha Itachi. To prevent information leaks, he had kept his contact with Akatsuki members to a minimum. As a result, Orochimaru still knew nothing about this intelligence!

As for the incident of the sunken island, he only assumed that Houka had used a Tailed Beast to cause it.

Though Tailed Beast Jinchuriki were rather troublesome, Uchiha Houka without the Sharingan was like a tiger without claws or fangs. Orochimaru was confident that even if he could not win, he could still leave calmly with Jugo!

That was just how confident Orochimaru was.

No matter how many times he failed or was knocked down, he could rise again at the fastest speed, regain his confidence, and forge ahead!

Whoosh!

Outside Takigakure, a massive waterfall hung in midair like a white ribbon, concealing Takigakure within it.

"This is the place."

Orochimaru excitedly stuck out his tongue and licked his lips. "Let's go!"

Kimimaro followed close behind as they slipped into the pool beneath the waterfall.

At Takigakure's entrance, Obito