In the end, Orochimaru was the first to break the suffocating silence. A dry, hoarse laugh rose from his throat, like jammed gears being forced to turn.
"Heh heh heh... Toru Kujyo-kun, you really are... full of surprises." He licked his lips, trying to conceal his momentary loss of composure with his signature gesture. "I like working with people who get straight to the point. Rest assured, I, Orochimaru, keep my word. I would hate to ruin our relationship with such a promising partner."
He raised both hands in a gesture of sincerity. "A flawless operation in exchange for my hands and hope for the future. That is an excellent bargain. I have no reason to jeopardize it."
"Good." Toru Kujyo withdrew his intimidating presence in an instant, becoming that seemingly harmless young man again.
"I need time to prepare," Orochimaru said. "An operation of the highest standard requires the most precise equipment and the most sterile environment. My Northern Base is the best choice. In three days, I will send someone to pick you up."
"Fine." Toru Kujyo briskly snapped the combination-lock case shut and turned to Sasuke. "Let's go."
Sasuke gave Orochimaru a long, searching look, then followed Toru Kujyo.
Only after their figures had disappeared completely into the darkness of the passage did the smile slowly fade from Orochimaru's face, replaced by a fathomless gloom.
"Kabuto Yakushi," he called softly.
A bespectacled figure with a mild demeanor emerged silently from the shadows and bowed his head respectfully. "Lord Orochimaru."
"Prepare the Northern Base for an operation of the highest standard," Orochimaru ordered. "Send every available member of staff there and put it on maximum alert."
"Yes." Kabuto Yakushi adjusted his glasses. "Should we... make any other preparations?"
Orochimaru turned, running his hands over his newly acquired White