Light and shadow shifted across the Sky Screen as it continued showing the group's return journey from the Land of Rain without pause.
On the forest path, everyone slowed their steps, their taut nerves easing slightly, but a lingering heaviness still hung in the air.
Orochimaru walked at the side of the group, his narrow eyes slightly narrowed. His gaze swept across the silent mountain forest as he issued a solemn warning.
"We need to be more wary of the Veil Organization from now on."
"This faction is far too mysterious. Everything about them is shrouded in uncertainty. No one can fathom their background or their goals."
At those words, Naruto's expression darkened slightly. Helplessness and apprehension flickered in his eyes as he picked up the conversation.
"You're not the only one. I've always wanted to meet the leader of the Veil Organization myself."
"Unfortunately, every attempt has fallen through. I've never managed to make contact with anyone at their core."
"I've gone over it countless times, but I still can't understand what they're after, lurking in the Shinobi World for all these years."
Orochimaru's expression grew even graver. Lightly rubbing his fingertips together, he quietly voiced the most unsettling point.
"That's precisely what makes them so frightening."
"An enemy whose goals and hidden assets we can't discern is far more terrifying than Lucci and Kalifa out in the open. The potential threat can only be greater."
When the two finished speaking, Sarada, who had been resting weakly nearby, slowly raised her head and added her own words, genuine apprehension in her voice.
"I've seen Uchiha Hikari fight before."
"She's also from the Veil Organization, and her strength is terrifying. With a single strike, she forced Lucci back head-on and injured him."
"If even one member they casually send out