Meanwhile, deep within a Cold, Damp Underground Base far from Konoha.
Kabuto Yakushi adjusted his gleaming glasses as he led Sasuke Uchiha down a dim corridor.
"Lord Orochimaru is waiting for you inside, Lord Sasuke."
Kabuto's tone was as respectful as ever, though it carried a barely perceptible hint of scrutiny.
Sasuke's face remained expressionless as he pushed open the heavy stone door.
The room was dim. Orochimaru lounged on a massive stone seat, his golden snake eyes gleaming with excitement in the darkness like a venomous serpent that had found its prey.
He licked his lips, his voice hoarse and enticing:
"You've come, Sasuke."
Sasuke raised his head. His dark eyes instantly turned scarlet, three Tomoe slowly revolving within them as they radiated cold, powerful Chakra.
"Orochimaru."
There was no warmth in Sasuke's voice. "I hope you truly have the power I need to take revenge on Konoha."
At the sight of the Sharingan he had long coveted, Orochimaru let out a low, delighted laugh. He even leaned forward slightly in his excitement.
"Heh... Hahaha! Of course, Sasuke-kun!" Orochimaru said with utter confidence. "I guarantee it, so long as you can withstand everything I've prepared for you..."
"Two years! In just two years, you'll far surpass those so-called peers of yours in Konoha and reach heights they could never imagine! The power of the Uchiha will find its perfect expression in you!"
The next day, the Canopy Screen began broadcasting again.
[The scene on the Canopy Screen appeared in an eerie place.]
[The only light came from a ghostly blue flame floating at the center of a circular meeting chamber. It illuminated ten figures in voluminous black robes seated around an ancient stone table.]
[The figure in the main seat slowly raised his head, revealing a gentle, scholarly face