Most of the Rock Ninja were briefly stunned by Ōnoki's words, their faces filling with confusion.
Las Noches?
Was this some new organization? It sounded... more like a place.
"Lord Tsuchikage, what is Las Noches...?"
A high-ranking Rock Ninja below couldn't help asking.
Ōnoki glanced at him, his sharp gaze turning slightly grave as he spoke in a low voice.
"It's an organization established by the Konoha traitor, Sosuke... Almost no one outside knows a thing about it. I only learned of it by chance."
His gaze darkened as he continued.
"However... this organization could become our ally. After all, that man Sosuke's strength... must never be underestimated."
His words left everyone below slightly startled.
Sosuke!?
Wasn't he the one who'd ruined the Rock Ninja's attack plan, and then betrayed Konoha despite being the Fourth Hokage—the so-called 'Child of Konoha'?
At the thought, everyone was reminded of how terrifying that man was.
A Rock Ninja looked confused and asked, "Lord Tsuchikage, if Las Noches was founded by Sosuke, how can we be sure it won't betray us in the battles to come?"
"After all, Sosuke was the one responsible for ruining the Rock Ninja's plan to attack Konoha."
The other Rock Ninja wore looks of agreement. They all shared the same concern.
Ōnoki wasn't embarrassed by the question. His expression remained calm; clearly, he'd expected someone to raise this concern.
He merely glanced at the Rock Ninja gathered there and spoke in a low voice.
"If you'd ever dealt with that man, you'd understand..."
"His pride and self-respect wouldn't allow him to stoop to such a petty, treacherous act..."
"So, as long as we establish a hired relationship this time, everything that follows should go smoothly."
Although Ōnoki's words sounded unreliable, the Rock Ninja present didn't quite believe him.
Still...