During the Third Shinobi World War, the Fourth Kazekage and Orochimaru had been enemies, fighting on behalf of Sunagakure and Konoha respectively.
As circumstances changed, they became close allies instead. In the end, both fought for their own interests.
Sunagakure needed Orochimaru's technology and combat strength to develop, while Orochimaru needed a refuge from the Akatsuki's pursuit where he could continue his unfinished experiments and research.
Flicking out his forked tongue, Orochimaru said in a soft, eerie voice, "I've used up the experimental materials from our deal. I need you to gather another batch as soon as possible. Also, something seems to be wrong with your youngest son."
"The ANBU are already purchasing the materials you need..."
After answering the first concern, the Fourth Kazekage paused briefly, then frowned and asked, "Has Gaara's growth in strength stalled?"
Busy with his duties as Kazekage, the Fourth Kazekage had sent Gaara to Orochimaru for training.
He had witnessed Orochimaru's teaching ability firsthand. Orochimaru had trained the Kekkei Genkai orphans he took in into elite jonin. Gaara, who had inherited his father's talent, should become the finest of the village's younger generation.
"Not at all." Orochimaru shook his head and smiled. "He's just developed some psychological issues. He may need some counseling and communication."
As one of the Sannin renowned throughout the shinobi world, Orochimaru was not only skilled at teaching ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu, but also served as a mentor in life.
Apart from the defiant Sasuke, the others were all devoted to him, even willing to give their lives for Orochimaru.
As long as his strength is still growing...
The Fourth Kazekage paid no attention to Gaara's psychological issues, nor did he ask Orochimaru for details. Rather than educating his children as a father, he preferred to do so as the