Just as Muzan used Orochimaru to block Jiraiya's pursuit, how could Orochimaru not be wary of Sakumo Hatake?
Once Muzan betrayed the village, Sakumo Hatake, as his father, would have no way to stay out of it. If Sakumo were sent to hunt Muzan down, at the very least, Muzan's life would be guaranteed.
But if they came after Orochimaru, that would be dangerous.
"Before they discover us, plunder as much as we can!"
Orochimaru emerged from the darkness and stepped into the light. Muzan followed at his side as the two left the laboratory together.
Just as Orochimaru left, Muzan noticed a Byakugan peering through the gaps in the trees. The Byakugan then floated before him, guiding him onward.
Elsewhere in the Forest of Death, Pakura arrived in Konoha in the shortest possible time after several days of traveling through the night.
Two eyes followed at her side, observing the surroundings and preventing Konoha ninja from approaching.
Following Muzan's instructions, the search had been entrusted to Hizashi.
"Lord Muzan."
Pakura had now completely mastered that power. Strange flaming patterns covered her face, and even without using ninjutsu, the air around her carried a scorching heat.
"Your Blood Demon Art has developed quite well. It will soon be time to test your abilities."
Pakura's strength was solidly at the Kage level. Now that she had awakened the Flame Blood Demon Art, only a very few people in the village could stand against her.
"Mm. I also want to test my current strength."
She looked at her hands, covered in crimson blood patterns. In the Land of Waves, there had not been a single worthy opponent. In less than a day, she had swept through every force in the Land of Waves.
Even when other ninja came to investigate, no matter