The Land of Rivers was dominated by mountains. Those natural geographical barriers offered security to the small nation nestled between Konoha and the Hidden Sand Village.
The scenery was just as delightful.
In fact, small nations untouched by wars between the great powers generally had beautiful environments.
After half a month of sightseeing, the three of them finally finished touring the Land of Rivers.
At the final stop on their journey, they would find an acquaintance of Xuanhui and Orochimaru.
Farther east in the Land of Rivers, near its border with the western Land of Fire, stood a facility.
It was a mineral transshipment center.
Its owner was named Fujiwara Ichido, a businessman Orochimaru and Xuanhui had once escorted.
When Teng Ran-ichi heard that visitors had arrived, he hurried outside to welcome them.
The moment he saw Orochimaru and Xuanhui, he stepped forward happily to shake their hands!
"Well, well! Mr. Orochimaru, one of the Sannin, and Mr. Light Release Xuanhui! I never imagined I would have the chance to see you again! What an incredible honor!"
"You're quite well informed."
"I enjoy keeping up with the news."
Teng Ran-ichi quickly invited the three inside for a chat.
After talking for a while, Xuanhui and the others learned that Teng Ran-ichi had originally based his operations in the Land of Grass. But when his caravan passed through here last time, he found the environment and geographical conditions excellent, so he established a branch here as well.
Their timing was perfect. Teng Ran-ichi happened to be inspecting the branch recently.
During their conversation, Xuanhui and the others also explained why they had come.
They wanted to leave Kakuzu here as a mercenary, guarding the branch and keeping it safe.
Teng Ran-ichi hesitated. He knew nothing about Kakuzu's background and found it