Yahiko finally regained control of his body.
Orochimaru smiled at Yahiko and held out his hand. "Then here's to a good partnership!"
Yahiko stared coldly at Orochimaru's hand. In the end, he shook it.
But only for a moment. He immediately flung Orochimaru's hand away and walked toward the two Ninja lying on the ground.
Seeing the worry in Yahiko's eyes, Orochimaru said softly, "They're fine. Splash some water on them and they'll wake up."
Yahiko didn't know whether Orochimaru was telling the truth. But Orochimaru was the one who had done it, so perhaps he alone knew for certain.
Yahiko formed a hand seal. With a pfft, a spray of water shot into both ninja's faces.
The instant the water hit them, their eyes snapped open, and they looked around warily.
Seeing that both were unharmed, Yahiko felt some of his anger toward Orochimaru subside.
Only a little, though. He was still deeply unhappy with Orochimaru's use of threats.
But after fighting Orochimaru, he knew full well that he was no match for the man.
Fortunately, Orochimaru didn't want to be their enemy. Otherwise, Amegakure would have faced far worse than its current troubles.
Once he had confirmed that the two Ninja were all right, Yahiko led them onward.
Orochimaru followed behind without a word.
Neither Ninja knew what had happened while they were unconscious. When they woke to find Orochimaru coming back to the village with them, both looked terrified.
They quietly asked Yahiko, "Lord Yahiko, does he want to pass through Amegakure?"
Yahiko paused before answering. "No. From now on, he's a member of Akatsuki."
The two Ninja were stunned. Orochimaru's strength was extraordinary.
If he could help Akatsuki, it would be something to celebrate.
Because of Yahiko's words, the fear in their eyes gradually gave way