After hearing Fugaku's analysis, Orochimaru fell into thought.
"What you say makes sense, Fugaku. Ancient myths and legends might not be mere stories. Many could have been adapted from things that really happened.
"The battle at the Valley of the End might become a legend itself a few hundred years from now."
Fugaku nodded. "If you want to trace the origins of the Black Substance, you should look for more records of ancient legends."
Orochimaru nodded.
"Aren't you curious what the Black Matter of Seven Chakra Natures looks like, Fugaku?
"It might help with the path of nature fusion you mentioned before."
Fugaku smiled. "If it's convenient, I'd love to see what kind of Black Substance could shock you so much."
That was the invitation he had been waiting for all along.
"I'll send word in two days," Orochimaru said.
"Thank you."
Orochimaru turned and vanished. Fugaku watched him go, lost in thought.
In the Land of Rain, unending rain shrouded the country year-round.
Three figures stood before the Akatsuki base, their eyes fixed on its entrance.
Behind them, three Konoha shinobi lay hidden: Fujimoto and his companions. Yahiko had not noticed them.
"Fujimoto, those three are clearly Rogue Ninja from Amegakure," Kenichi said. "I didn't expect them to join Akatsuki so openly. I wonder if Yahiko will dare take them in."
Fujimoto kept his eyes on the three figures ahead.
"Akatsuki's goal is to bring dawn to the dark Land of Rain, end the fighting, and let people live in peace.
"If Yahiko is willing to preach that ideal, he'll take them in. Otherwise, Akatsuki could never have gained this much support in the Land of Rain.
"Hanzō probably wouldn't have taken notice of them, either."
"Akatsuki's ideals and actions are admirable," Hitoshi said. "But Hanzō isn't generous or