Naruto went with Sage Katsuyu to seek sage teachings in Shikkotsu Forest.
Almost at the same time, Sasuke swept through the trials of Ryūchi Cave!
That was hardly surprising. The trials were always the same, and Kabuto Yakushi had shared his experience of passing them. With Sasuke's own strength, everything fell naturally into place.
Brimming with confidence, Sasuke scoffed, "Hmph. The trials of Ryūchi Cave were nothing special..."
But as they approached the White Snake Sage's temple, Kabuto Yakushi still cautioned him, "Sasuke-kun, passing the trials is a good thing... but when you meet the White Snake Sage, you must watch your attitude. Whatever you do, don't offend her!"
Sasuke glanced sideways at him. "Oh? Kabuto, don't you look down on everyone except Orochimaru? Why are you so meek around this White Snake Sage...?"
Kabuto Yakushi said solemnly, "It's true that I think highly of myself, but that doesn't mean I look down on everyone. The masters of the Three Great Sage Lands are ancient beings who stand apart from the world. They have lived almost as long as heaven and earth, and their power is beyond the reach of ordinary Ninja."
"They have witnessed history and lived through it themselves. Even the Sage of Six Paths, the founder of Ninshu, could only be considered their peer. You would do well to treat such beings with reverence. Otherwise, angering them could cost you your life in an instant..."
"Got it..." Sasuke agreed aloud, but inwardly dismissed the warning. If she's really that powerful, why is she so obscure? Before I met Kabuto, I'd never even heard of this White Snake Sage!
Hum!
The doors of Ryūchi Cave's temple opened.
They entered the inner hall and met the legendary White Snake Sage!
Looking at the enormous figure coiled upon the throne,