The shopkeeper, however, seemed quite interested in his request and pressed further:
"Sir, that's quite an unusual idea.
"If you come up with any specific concepts or design drawings in the future, feel free to bring them to our shop so we can discuss them.
"We cooperate with several artisan-ninja clans. As long as the idea is feasible and the materials and technology can be worked out, we might actually be able to make it.
"There aren't many young people with new ideas these days."
Orochimaru paused slightly and glanced sideways at the shopkeeper, an unreadable gleam flashing through his eyes.
"There will be."
Leaving behind those three words, he turned and walked out of the shop.
Outside on the street, the afternoon sunlight was somewhat dazzling.
As Orochimaru considered the limitations of the weapons he had just seen and how they might combine with his own ideas for electrical explosions, a familiar voice thick with dejection sounded beside him.
"Ugh—! Orochimaru? What are you doing here?"
Orochimaru turned and saw Jiraiya trudging over with his shoulders slumped, looking exactly like a fledgling bird soaked through by a downpour.
"That should be my question."
Orochimaru's tone was flat. "Going by your usual habits, you shouldn't be anywhere near a ninja tool shop lacking in artistic atmosphere at this hour.
"Has your source of inspiration dried up, or are you looking to change your tastes?"
"Don't even mention it!"
As though someone had stepped on his tail, Jiraiya raised his voice several notches. Then his face fell again, and he lowered his voice as he furtively leaned closer.
"I've been sanctioned!
"Lord Hokage... he's too ruthless!
"He's practically cutting off my path of artistic creation!"
Orochimaru raised an eyebrow slightly, showing a trace of puzzlement.
"Lord Hokage's policies cover commercial entertainment.