Nephew-Disciple Has Truly Grown Up

In Sunagakure, those who could see through Orochimaru's identity also realized just how dire the village's current situation was.

They knew very well that if they did not rely on Orochimaru, Sunagakure would be occupied by Konoha within two days. That was a situation no one wanted to see.

Thus, no one cared about the Fifth Kazekage's true identity. As long as it benefited Sunagakure and could protect the village, what did it matter even if he truly was Orochimaru?

Outside Sunagakure!

Standing at the village entrance, Orochimaru looked at the endless yellow sands ahead. The corner of his mouth suddenly curled up slightly, revealing a cold smile. A meaningful glint appeared in his pale pupils.

Tap! Tap!

Just then, several footsteps sounded. Two figures suddenly emerged from the yellow sands before Orochimaru—one tall and one lean. One had red face paint, while the other wore a black mask.

They were Kakashi and Jiraiya.

"Jiraiya, you came." Looking at the former comrade who had once fought alongside him, Orochimaru's expression did not change. Only a trace of complicated emotion flickered deep within his eyes.

But it was quickly concealed.

Orochimaru had appeared here because he had sensed Jiraiya's presence.

Orochimaru understood very clearly why Sunagakure had asked him to become the Fifth Kazekage, but he had plans of his own as well.

Moreover, he also wanted to see just how strong Konoha had become.

"Orochimaru, leave Sunagakure. Stop doing things that harm the village," Jiraiya said. Unlike Orochimaru, who was exceptionally skilled at hiding his emotions, Jiraiya's feelings were obvious.

The moment he saw Orochimaru, his expression changed.

In the end, Jiraiya spoke. He still gave Orochimaru a choice. Though he did not say it outright, if Orochimaru chose to leave Sunagakure now, Jiraiya would definitely let him go.