"Keep dreaming!"
Homura Mitokado roared, fury blazing in her eyes as she remembered the devastation caused by the Sky Ninja's invasion of Konoha. She swallowed a soldier pill, wiped her mouth, and with a puff of smoke, a massive scroll appeared on her back.
"Stop wasting words! We'll crush you right here!"
Beside her, Danzō Shimura's face darkened. His left eye glared fiercely at Shinno, the leader of the Sky Ninja. The resentment and old grudges that had long simmered in Danzō's heart now exploded into pure hatred. He wanted nothing more than to rip Shinno apart and destroy the Air Fortress that loomed ominously above them.
But through the Sharingan implanted in his right eye, Danzō could see the overwhelming chakra swirling inside Shinno. His heart thudded painfully. Gritting his teeth, he popped a soldier pill into his mouth and steeled himself for battle.
"Are you ready to pay the price for attacking Konoha?!" he shouted.
Utatane Koharu, standing at his flank, also swallowed a soldier pill. As a sensory ninja, she could feel the vast, suffocating power emanating from Shinno—it was unlike anything she had ever sensed.
"If you think you can, then try me!" Shinno's cold voice echoed through the air.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, was silent for a long moment. He swallowed his own soldier pill to recover chakra, his body trembling slightly from exhaustion. He had already spent an immense amount of energy forcing the Sky Ninja's Air Fortress away from Konoha. A single miscalculation could have caused the fortress to crash into the village, wiping it out completely.
He never imagined the Sky Ninja's leader would possess chakra that felt so close—so eerily similar—to that of the Nine-Tails itself.
They had no time to waste. This battle had to end quickly—before Konoha fell.
---
The Allied Shinobi Forces' Struggle
Far from Konoha, ninja from multiple villages had gathered to face a far more terrifying enemy: Orochimaru.
Though they came from different nations, they fought under a temporary alliance. Yet even with their combined strength, the sight of Orochimaru standing amid the ruins of Whirlpool Hidden Village filled them with dread.
He wasn't a man—they thought—but a monster wearing human skin.
That strange, mysterious jutsu he had used earlier had wiped out more than half their forces in mere minutes.
"Earth Release: Mountain Earth Technique!"
A Hidden Stone ninja slammed his hands together, and two massive hemispheres of earth rose from the ground, closing in on Orochimaru like jaws.
A flash of blinding sword light followed. The rock was split cleanly in two.
"Cloud Style: Thunder Burst!"
A Cloud ninja lunged forward, lightning crackling across his blade. Orochimaru didn't even glance up. His sword—Kusanagi—pierced through the man's chest.
The liquid pooling on the ground behind him suddenly rippled and took human form—a Hōzuki Clan ninja. She thrust her arm forward, stretching it like a whip, trying to strike Orochimaru from behind. But his body twisted in an unnatural motion. The white scales on his wrist thickened, and in an instant, the sword in his hand pierced backward through his own torso and into hers.
"L-Lightning Release?!" she gasped, eyes wide. "How… how do you—?"
Under the effects of Lightning Release, her body could no longer liquefy.
A single strike—and her head rolled to the ground.
Orochimaru turned, raised both hands, and intertwined his fingers above his head.
"Sage Art: Wind Release – Night Wind!"
Gales roared to life. Even the elite Wind Release users from the Hidden Sand were caught off guard. Cyclones of razor-sharp wind blades materialized from nowhere, slicing through flesh, armor, and bone alike. Screams filled the battlefield.
"We can't fight him!"
"Retreat—now! If we stay, we'll all die!"
"Run! Send the intel back home—save yourselves!"
The allied ninja, watching their comrades torn apart, abandoned any thought of victory. They fled in panic.
But Orochimaru's cold voice stopped them in their tracks.
"It's too late to run."
He thrust the Kusanagi Sword into the earth and formed another string of seals.
"Sage Art: Inorganic Reincarnation!"
The ground trembled violently. The ruined stones and shattered walls of the once-beautiful Whirlpool Hidden Village began to move—groaning, shifting, and rising. The broken village itself came alive, driven by Orochimaru's vengeful will.
The fleeing ninja screamed as the land itself turned against them. The earth swallowed their legs, sharp stones pierced their bodies, and collapsing debris crushed them one by one.
Their cries echoed endlessly.
Within minutes, the entire alliance—composed of elite ninja from the Five Great Nations—lay dead amidst the ruins they had once destroyed. Only their scrolls and reports, sent away via summoned animals, escaped to tell the tale.
Orochimaru stood amidst the corpses. He gazed at the fallen—both the invaders and the people of the Whirlpool Village—and a strange emotion flickered across his face.
For the first time, he felt how cheap human life truly was.
He looked at the strange, twisted remains of the village—structures that had somehow preserved their forms even after death. He sighed softly.
"The Land of Whirlpools… Such a beautiful place, now just a memory."
A white snake slithered up beside him, its tail coiling around the Kusanagi Sword. It flicked its tongue and looked up at him expectantly.
Orochimaru patted its head and turned his gaze toward the distant horizon.
"So, you've found me… haven't you, Madara?"
---
Madara's Shadow
Far away, Uchiha Madara wasn't surprised. Having mastered Sage Mode long ago, he knew Orochimaru would sense his presence eventually. He remembered well how terrifying that power was—the same power that once belonged to Hashirama Senju.
But Orochimaru wasn't interested in fighting—yet. He reached out with his chakra and felt a familiar mark—the Flying Thunder God formula he had left behind at White Snake Pharmaceutical Company.
He vanished.
---
White Snake Pharmaceutical Company, Land of Waves
Inside the president's office, Orochimaru lounged on a sofa, lazily flipping through patient records. A white snake tail coiled comfortably around his waist.
"How are the survivors?" he asked without looking up.
Standing before him, Qing He straightened her back. "Lady Orochimaru, the people rescued from Whirlpool Hidden Village are safe. The lightly injured have been treated with Healing Pills and are recovering well. The severely wounded are in surgery."
"Good," Orochimaru said, setting the files aside. "Have we organized search teams?"
"Yes, my lady. We've contacted trustworthy black-market agents and sent our own clan's elite trackers. We believe more survivors are out there."
Before she could finish, the door opened and Kakuzu entered. His sharp gaze fell on Orochimaru, and he frowned.
"Orochimaru," he said bluntly, "bringing the Whirlpool survivors here will cause problems for the company."
Orochimaru smiled faintly. "Kakuzu, sometimes it's not about profit or loss. Sometimes, you follow your heart."
He tapped his chest lightly. "And mine tells me that if I don't act when Whirlpool Village is destroyed, I'll regret it forever."
---
The Infirmary
The infirmary inside White Snake Pharmaceuticals was more like a miniature hospital—small, but fully equipped. In the operating room, several of Orochimaru's shadow clones worked seamlessly together, performing surgeries with perfect telepathic coordination.
Outside, the rescued people of Whirlpool Village waited anxiously. Their leader, Uzumaki Chigusa, lay inside, gravely wounded after using the Four Symbols Sealing technique to protect her people.
When Orochimaru emerged from the operating room, removing his gloves, the crowd surged forward.
"What are you all doing here?" he asked coldly. "Instead of wasting time, why not clean up the living quarters prepared for you? Or"—his golden eyes narrowed—"do you not trust my skills?"
"N-No! We trust you completely, Lady Orochimaru!" they stammered.
Seeing her stern expression, the villagers recalled her friendship with their clan leader and realized she must be suffering too. They bowed deeply and left.
Once they were gone, Orochimaru released his shadow clone. After receiving its memories, he turned and walked to the recovery ward.
Inside lay Uzumaki Chigusa, pale and frail. When she saw him, she tried to sit up, but dizziness overtook her.
Orochimaru caught her instantly, supporting her gently. Her body was so light, so weak—it was a miracle she was alive at all.
"Your body's been drained by the sealing jutsu," Orochimaru said quietly. "The Four Symbols Seal consumes the user's blood. Even though you didn't complete the final step, it nearly cost you your life."
Chigusa smiled faintly. "You shouldn't have risked yourself for us… You'll only bring trouble to your doorstep."
Orochimaru shook his head. "You're overthinking. Their attack wasn't random—it was calculated. They feared the Uzumaki Clan's sealing techniques, especially the ones capable of sealing Tailed Beasts into Jinchūriki. That's why they struck so ruthlessly."
His voice grew colder as he remembered the ruined village. "If they dare come to the Land of Waves… I'll make sure they never return."
Chigusa sensed the dangerous shift in his chakra. "So… they planned it together," she whispered.
"Exactly," Orochimaru said, confirming her fear.
Chigusa tried to speak, but her body convulsed with violent coughs. Blood stained her fingers. "If only… they hadn't spread the rumor that Lady Mito—the Nine-Tails Jinchūriki—was here… Whirlpool wouldn't have suffered this fate…"
"Enough," Orochimaru said sharply. The white snake tail coiled around her, restraining her gently. He activated the Mystical Palm Technique, infusing healing chakra into her body.
"Rest, or I'll make you sleep until you recover," he warned.
Her breathing steadied. Looking up at him with weary eyes, she whispered, "I'm sorry…"
"Chigusa," Orochimaru said softly, "you're the leader of the Uzumaki Clan. Your people need you alive. You are their pillar—so don't fall."
He placed a hand on her shoulder. "Stay in the Land of Waves until you're healed. Leave the rest to me."
Chigusa nodded weakly. "And… Naino? How is she?"
"She lost a lot of life force," Orochimaru replied. "But recovery isn't impossible. I'll study your clan's forbidden techniques and find a way."
He had seen Uzumaki Naino use the Cursed Seal Blood Imprint, a forbidden jutsu that used the caster's own life force to fuel a sealing formula. If it truly relied on Yang Release, then perhaps her life could still be restored.
"Orochimaru…" Chigusa's voice trembled. "Thank you—for everything. For saving us… for saving the Whirlpool Hidden Village."
Orochimaru turned away, his golden eyes gleaming faintly under the light. "Don't thank me yet," he murmured. "There's still a price to pay
Uzumaki Chigusa smiled gently at Orochimaru.
"If you want to thank me, you'll have plenty of chances later. For now, get some rest."
Orochimaru didn't reply. Her words of gratitude should have pleased him, yet no joy stirred in his heart. Everything had unfolded just as he predicted—but somehow, he couldn't accept it.
---
Land of Fire — Outside Konoha
The vast forest surrounding the village lay in ruins. Towering trees had been uprooted, the earth torn apart by explosions, and shattered ninja tools were scattered everywhere. Deep drag marks scarred the ground as if some monstrous force had dragged the forest itself away.
In the midst of this devastation, the battle raged on.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, Danzo Shimura, Utatane Koharu, and Homura Mitokado faced off against one man—Shinno, the priest who had fused with the artificial Tailed Beast, Zero-Tail.
Zero-Tail's chakra pulsed through Shinno's body, granting him monstrous vitality and a nearly infinite supply of chakra. His body healed faster than any known regeneration technique. Against such an enemy, the four elders of Konoha were fighting a battle that could not be won quickly—if at all.
"If this continues, we'll be the first ones to collapse," Homura growled. Twin scythe-like weapons spun in his hands, their chakra-forged blades gleaming faintly in the smoke.
They had fought many brutal battles in their long lives, but this enemy was something else entirely. No matter how many wounds they inflicted, Shinno's flesh would twist and mend before their eyes. Even the famed vitality of the Uzumaki Clan couldn't compare.
"This can't go on," Hiruzen muttered grimly. "We'll have to use a sealing technique."
Danzo's eyes widened in alarm. "Don't tell me you're thinking of—"
Hiruzen's expression said it all. There was only one sealing technique powerful enough to end this: the Dead Demon Consuming Seal, a forbidden jutsu of the Uzumaki Clan.
"Hiruzen!" Danzo shouted. "You're the Hokage! You can't throw your life away like this!"
Danzo's voice trembled—not from concern alone, but from fear. If Hiruzen died, he would have no choice but to take up the position of Hokage, something he had no desire for. As the Assistant Hokage, he already wielded both influence and wealth. Why shoulder the burdens of the Hokage's seat when he already had everything he wanted?
Besides, the Hokage had access to all of Konoha's secrets, including the Forbidden Jutsu Chamber—but even Danzo hesitated to use those techniques. Some powers were too dark, even for him.
---
"The monster inside you was born from a fragment of the Nine-Tails," said a calm, aged voice. "If that's the case, then I shall handle this."
The air shimmered, and Uzumaki Mito appeared beside them.
"Grandmother Mito?!"
All four turned in shock. None of them had sensed her arrival.
"Uzumaki Mito, the Nine-Tailed Jinchūriki," Shinno sneered, his eyes lighting up with twisted excitement. "To think you'd come to me of your own will!"
Dark-purple chakra erupted from his body, flaring like flames. Behind him, the Zero-Tail's monstrous form emerged—an enormous shadow with a serpentine body writhing in the air.
Within Mito, the Nine-Tails stirred restlessly, sensing the presence of its fragmented chakra. But with decades of experience and iron will, Mito easily suppressed the beast's rage. Her gaze remained fixed on Shinno, then drifted upward to the massive Air Fortress floating ominously in the sky.
---
The Air Fortress
Without warning, a thunderous explosion tore through the sky fortress. Fire and smoke billowed out as three enormous serpents burst forth—one crimson, one deep blue, and one massive purple snake with horns curling from its head.
Hiruzen and the others stared upward, stunned. "Those snakes... could it be Orochimaru?"
Indeed, far away, Orochimaru, cloaked and silent, watched the destruction unfold.
---
The Sky Ninjas Panic
"Damn it!" Shinno roared, his eyes bloodshot. That fortress was the Sky Ninja Village's greatest weapon—their very home. Without it, all his ambitions would crumble.
He launched himself into the air like a cannonball, intending to return and stop the serpents. But before he could escape—
"Not so fast!" Homura shouted.
Chakra-forged chains shot out, coiling around Shinno's body. The twin scythes bit deep into his flesh, and Hiruzen, Koharu, and Danzo moved in at once.
"Wind Release: Vacuum Wave!" Danzo inhaled deeply and unleashed a razor-sharp gale shaped like a weasel's claws. The slicing wind tore through Shinno's torso, shredding flesh and muscle—but within seconds, the wounds sealed over as if nothing had happened.
With a mighty heave, the four elders yanked Shinno down from the sky. He crashed into the ground, sending debris flying.
"Damn you all! Get out of my way!" Shinno bellowed. His muscles bulged grotesquely, bursting the chains apart. His fury spiked as he saw the giant snakes still ravaging the Air Fortress.
Homura smirked, unsealing another scroll. "You seem to be in a hurry," he said coolly. Dozens of ninja tools materialized in a flash of smoke—chains, hooks, and blades, all gleaming with chakra.
Danzo blinked in disbelief. How many weapons did he prepare?!
Even amidst the chaos, Orochimaru observed silently from above.
No... this isn't the regeneration technique I was seeking, he thought, watching the dark chakra roil around Shinno's body. His power doesn't come from life force alone, but from that twisted energy... that thing inside him.
Realizing this, Orochimaru gave up the idea of studying Shinno's regeneration.
---
Inside the Air Fortress
"Hey, Orochimaru, can I eat them?"
The massive serpent Manda flicked its tongue, eyeing the Sky Ninjas scrambling for their lives.
Orochimaru's voice was calm. "You know best."
He had no intention of leaving any survivors anyway.
Shinza, another of his summoned serpents, hissed mockingly. "You'd really eat that trash, Manda? Don't you fear indigestion?"
Shinza opened its mouth wide, spewing a mist of petrifying venom. The Sky Ninjas screamed—but before the sound could escape their throats, they turned to stone statues mid-air, crashing into the burning fortress below.
Orochimaru raised his hand. "This place is yours now. When the fortress collapses, return to Ryūchi Cave."
With that, he vanished in a flash of light—the Flying Thunder God Technique—and reappeared beside Uzumaki Mito.
---
The Return
"Orochimaru?!" Hiruzen, Danzo, Koharu, and Homura were stunned. Even Mito's eyes widened in disbelief. The young man before them looked nothing like the Orochimaru they remembered.
He smiled faintly under their shocked gazes. "Don't look at me like that. I just left the village for a little while, and you've already forgotten me?"
"Speak properly!" Mito snapped, her fist slamming down on his head.
"Grandma Mito! That hurts!" Orochimaru cried, rubbing the sore spot. Even in Sage Mode, that punch stung.
Hiruzen watched closely, eyes narrowing. "So… you've mastered Sage Mode?"
"Let's just say I took a short break from training," Orochimaru said with a sigh. He pulled down his hood, revealing long black hair cascading like silk, porcelain-white horns glinting in the sunlight, and magatama earrings swaying at his neck. A white serpent tail slithered behind him, coiling at his feet.
"With something this big happening, how could I possibly keep training in Ryūchi Cave?"
"So those three snakes... were your summons?" Hiruzen asked.
"Indeed."
Above them, Shinno let out a furious roar. The Air Fortress, his dream of dominion, was collapsing before his eyes.
---
Shinno's Fury
Shinno slammed his fist into the ground, shattering it and hurling massive stones into the air. Using the debris as cover, he leapt upward, desperate to reach the fortress. But a familiar voice echoed from above.
"What a coincidence," Orochimaru said coldly. "I was just about to come find you."
Shinno's eyes widened. "You—!"
"White Snake Scale Blade!"
Orochimaru's tail lashed out, slamming into Shinno with bone-shattering force. The impact drove the man into the ground, leaving a crater in his wake. Blood splattered, flesh torn—but once again, the horrifying regeneration began. Muscles twisted, bones reformed, skin sealed over in an instant.
Uzumaki Mito frowned. "Orochimaru, his vitality and chakra come from the beast within. Unless we separate it from him, he'll never die."
Orochimaru's golden eyes gleamed. "A beast, hmm? Then what would you call the Nine-Tails inside you, Mito-sama?"
Shinno laughed, a harsh, echoing sound. "You're right! The Zero-Tail was created from a fragment of the Nine-Tails' power. Once it devours the Nine-Tails completely, the Sky Ninjas will surpass even Konoha!"
Dark-purple chakra surged from his body, condensing into a pulsing orb in his hand. It shimmered like a miniature sun—dense, unstable, deadly.
He hurled it straight at Orochimaru.
Orochimaru's pupils narrowed to slits. His tail struck the ground, propelling him aside with snake-like reflexes. The orb exploded where he had stood, vaporizing everything within a ten-meter radius.
---
The Village Watches
Far below, Konoha's ninjas looked up at the chaos in the sky.
"What's that?!"
"Those aren't Hokage-sama's summons!"
"Hokage-sama's beast is Enma!"
"Danzo-sama's is Baku!"
The villagers murmured in confusion. No one could identify the colossal snakes tearing apart the Air Fortress above.
But for Hiruzen and the others, the truth was clear. Orochimaru had returned—not as the boy they once knew, but as something far more powerful
A sharp buzz sliced through the air as chakra chains brushed past Orochimaru's hair, the metallic sound echoing through the battlefield. Four chains snapped around Shinno's massive form, binding his limbs tightly.
Each chain led to a different master — Hiruzen Sarutobi, Danzo Shimura, Utatane Koharu, and Homura Mitokado — all forming hand seals with one hand. Their voices rang in unison.
> "Four Symbols Sealing!"
The chains pulsed with power, glowing with vibrant chakra that forced itself into Shinno's body. The air quivered as the sealing formula spread across his skin, forming glowing symbols that shimmered like molten iron.
Orochimaru's golden eyes narrowed.
This chakra… similar to the Uzumaki Clan's sealing techniques.
His curiosity sparked. So Konoha developed their own version from the Uzumaki methods. Fascinating…
Shinno roared, his voice cracking the air like thunder.
"Again with this seal?! Is that all you can do?!"
Despite his rage, his massive body trembled as the Four Symbols Sealing drained the last of his chakra. His movements grew sluggish under the combined power of the four elders.
"Enough!" Orochimaru shouted, sprinting forward. "We'll end this now!"
He thrust his palm directly into Shinno's chest.
Shinno sneered, even as his body shook from the impact. "Useless! Your attacks—"
His words froze. A complex web of glowing seals spread from Orochimaru's hand, wrapping around his entire body. His eyes widened in disbelief.
"W–what did you do to me?!"
Orochimaru's tone was calm, almost amused.
"This is a Contract Seal. The Zero-Tails isn't sealed inside you—it's bound to you through a contract. I merely… terminated that agreement."
A strangled scream erupted from Shinno as the connection snapped. The Zero-Tails, a swirling mass of black chakra, tore itself from his back, screeching as it was forced out into the open air.
Freed from its host, Shinno's body began to shrink rapidly, his once-mighty physique collapsing like a deflating balloon.
The Zero-Tails turned its eyeless head toward the nearest massive chakra presence — Uzumaki Mito. Its body quivered with hunger, sensing the Nine-Tails sealed within her.
It lunged forward with terrifying speed.
"Grandma Mito!" Hiruzen shouted, eyes wide. He and the others released their chains, rushing to intercept the monster.
Golden Adamantine Sealing Chains burst from Mito's back, glimmering in the sunlight. She prepared to counterattack — but before she could, she noticed Orochimaru forming a series of hand seals behind her.
The chains vanished, retracted by his will.
"Earth Release: Earth Flow Wall!"
The ground rumbled violently. A colossal wall of rock surged upward, towering hundreds of meters high. The Zero-Tails crashed into it with a guttural roar, its black aura bursting against the surface. It struck again and again, trying to break through to the Jinchūriki beyond.
Shinno laughed weakly, watching the chaos unfold.
"Without my control, the Zero-Tails goes wild! You'll regret this—ha ha ha!"
Orochimaru tilted his head slightly, his expression cold.
"An instinct-driven beast is easier to seal than one with a mind of its own."
His fingers flashed through hand signs.
"Shadow Clone Technique!"
Two identical Orochimarus appeared beside him, both emanating the same Sage Mode aura. The clones flanked the Zero-Tails, slamming their palms to the ground in perfect sync.
Intricate sealing symbols rippled outwards like waves, forming a vast circle around the beast.
> "Ryougi Sealing!"
This was an ancient sealing art of the Uzumaki Clan, designed for binding summoned creatures. Slightly weaker than the Four Symbols Seal, yet far more effective for suppressing monsters of chakra origin. However, it demanded two masters of Yin and Yang Release — a condition the Sage clones fulfilled perfectly.
Under the combined pressure, the Zero-Tails' writhing mass began to shrink. The seal tightened until its form compressed into a swirling black-and-white Taiji sphere of balanced chakra.
Orochimaru studied it thoughtfully.
"Now then… where should I keep you?"
He smirked.
I certainly won't seal you within myself.
His mind flashed to Naino, and the life force she had spent using forbidden jutsu.
If this thing's vitality could be harnessed, perhaps… it could help her recover.
After a moment of consideration, Orochimaru took out his tea thermos — the same one he used to brew medicinal tea. Since the Zero-Tails was a being of living chakra, similar to a Tailed Beast, it couldn't simply be sealed in a scroll. But for a short time, a sturdy container would suffice.
"Perfect."
The sphere of light shrank, slipping into the thermos with a soft pop. Orochimaru bit his thumb, drew a sealing formula on a paper talisman, and pressed it onto the lid.
The thermos glowed faintly — the Zero-Tails was contained.
Across the field, Uzumaki Mito felt the Nine-Tails' agitation fade, as if the presence of the Zero-Tails had truly vanished.
"How could it be…" Shinno's voice trembled, his hollow eyes fixed on the thermos. "My Zero-Tails… sealed just like that? In that little cup?!"
Orochimaru looked at him, shaking the thermos lightly. "Sorry, what was that? Mind repeating yourself?"
Before Shinno could respond, a thunderous explosion erupted from above.
The Sky Fortress — the colossal airborne base of the Sky Ninja — was burning. Flames engulfed its hull as it began to descend rapidly, its engines exploding one after another.
"It's falling! Everyone, move!" Hiruzen yelled.
He grabbed a chain to pull Shinno along but froze when he saw the man's twisted grin.
"Come die with me!" Shinno hissed, yanking the chain violently.
But he had overestimated his strength. The contract's severing had drained his chakra — he was no longer the monster he had been.
"Die alone if you wish."
Hiruzen released the chain and leaped away without hesitation. His duty as Hokage outweighed any sentiment. If he died here, Konoha would descend into chaos.
Shinno screamed as the Sky Fortress plummeted.
"AHHHHHH!"
The structure struck the ground with a deafening BOOM, shaking the earth for miles.
Far below, Konoha's shinobi cleaning up the battlefield looked up to see the flaming wreckage crashing down. A wave of triumphant cheers erupted across the ranks.
They had done it — Konoha had survived the Sky Ninja's invasion.
Children in the underground shelters felt the tremor beneath their feet. Some snuck out, standing atop Hokage Rock, watching in awe as the massive fortress crumbled in the distance.
In the chaos, a small, unnoticed white snake slithered through the debris, a scroll marked "Confidential" clutched in its mouth.
---
In the Hokage's Office
"Hokage-sama," an ANBU reported, kneeling before Hiruzen. "We've returned from the Whirlpool Country. We… found the ruins of Uzushiogakure."
Hiruzen frowned, his pipe slipping from his lips and scattering embers across his desk. "Ruins? What are you saying?"
The ANBU's tone wavered. "Uzushiogakure has been destroyed. We found corpses bearing the insignias of the Four Great Shinobi Villages — Mist, Cloud, Rock, and Sand."
The pipe clattered to the floor. Sparks flew, igniting the papers on Hiruzen's desk.
"This… this can't be." His voice trembled. Uzushiogakure had been Konoha's long-standing ally for generations. To imagine it wiped out… was unthinkable.
He slumped into his chair as ANBU rushed to extinguish the flames, his eyes blank with disbelief.
---
Later — Uzumaki Mito's Residence
The quiet clink of porcelain echoed as Mito's teacup fell from her hand and shattered. The faint scent of herbs filled the air — the same tea Orochimaru had brewed for her.
"Hiruzen… what did you just say?" she asked, voice trembling.
Hiruzen bowed deeply. "Grandma Mito… Uzushiogakure is gone. When I sent ANBU there, the village had already been destroyed. From the evidence, the attack was a joint operation by the four major hidden villages. It seems your identity as the Nine-Tails' Jinchūriki was leaked."
Mito closed her eyes, her expression unreadable. "I see… Thank you, Hiruzen. That will be all."
Her tone was calm, but her heart bled. She understood why the four villages had moved — the Uzumaki Clan's sealing arts were unmatched, and her mastery of the Nine-Tails had made them fearful.
Whether it was their bloodline, their power, or their knowledge… all of it had made the Uzumaki a target.
And I… I was the reason they perished.
Hiruzen hesitated but eventually bowed and left. He planned to have Biwako check on her later; he feared what grief might drive her to do.
As silence filled the room, Mito rested her trembling hands on the table, staring blankly ahead. Memories of Uzushiogakure — her home, her people — flooded her mind. Tears streamed silently down her face.
Even the Nine-Tails within her remained quiet, feeling her sorrow. It dared not mock her.
---
A soft voice broke the silence.
"Grandma Mito, crying won't help your health."
She looked up. Orochimaru stood before her, holding out a white handkerchief.
"Orochimaru… what are you doing here?" she asked, taking it.
"I came because there's something I need to tell you — something I hope you'll keep secret."
Her brows furrowed. "Very well. You have my word."
Orochimaru nodded, his expression serious.
"The survivors of Uzushiogakure… are safe. They're in the Land of Waves, under the care of the White Snake Pharmaceutical Company."
Mito froze, eyes widening in shock. "You're certain of this?"
"Yes," Orochimaru said firmly. "Before returning to Konoha, I traveled there myself. I sent them to the company — my company. They were taken in and are safe… for now."
Her hands trembled, a faint glimmer of relief breaking through her sorrow.
"Thank you, Orochimaru…"
He smiled faintly — a rare, human smile.
"Don't thank me yet, Grandma Mito. Keeping them safe will only get harder from here."
The candlelight flickered between them, casting long shadows against the wall — two figures burdened by secrets, tied together by the same tragedy
Uzumaki Mito threw her arms around Orochimaru with a rare burst of emotion. Her usually composed expression softened as relief filled her heart.
"Orochimaru, thank you… If it weren't for you, the people of the Whirlpool Hidden Village might not have survived this disaster."
Orochimaru shook his head slightly, pressing a finger to his lips. "It's nothing, Grandma Mito. Just something I had to do. But… please remember the promise you made to me. Don't tell anyone about this, and don't interfere too much with the choices the people of the Whirlpool make."
Mito's gentle smile returned as she stroked his head affectionately. For a brief moment, she was reminded of her own youth. But as she looked down, she blinked in surprise.
"Wait a moment… Orochimaru, you've shrunk!"
She pinched her arm, then her cheek, thinking it was some kind of Transformation Technique—but no, her body had truly become smaller.
Orochimaru smiled faintly. "It might be because of Sage Mode. When I enter Sage Mode, I appear slightly more mature. After I release it, my body returns to my real age—around sixteen."
As he withdrew from Sage Mode, his appearance stabilized, though he was still noticeably different—slimmer, younger, his features sharpened by the lingering power of nature energy.
Mito composed herself. "Orochimaru, you already know about the existence of the Tailed Beasts. What do you plan to do with the Zero-Tail you sealed?"
Her tone carried both curiosity and concern. The memory of Orochimaru sealing the creature was still vivid—how he'd used the Two Extremes Sealing Technique, also known as Yin-Yang Sealing.
In the Whirlpool Clan, the Two Extremes Sealing required two sealers: one channeling Yang Release chakra to form the positive half of the formula, and the other using Yin Release chakra to form the negative. When both parts were fused, the seal's power would never decay over time, though its strength was slightly weaker than the more advanced Four Symbols Seal. Only a handful of shinobi in the entire village could perform it successfully.
Yet somehow, Orochimaru had mastered it alone. Even Mito had been impressed.
Before Orochimaru could answer, a small voice echoed through the hall.
"Grandma! I'm hungry!"
A two-year-old Nawaki came running in, his chubby legs wobbling like a little radish as he stumbled toward Orochimaru.
"Big Sis Orochimaru!" he called cheerfully before nearly tripping. Orochimaru caught him effortlessly, chuckling as he poked the boy's cheek.
"Nawaki, how many times have I told you? Don't run in the house."
"Haha!" Nawaki grinned, revealing baby teeth that made him look just like a miniature Tsunade. Orochimaru noticed the resemblance instantly—and something in his heart softened.
"Big Sis Orochimaru, what happened to you? You look different!"
"I just grew up a little," Orochimaru replied with a cryptic smile.
Nawaki tilted his head, confused by the grown-up words. Mito chuckled, her earlier tension easing.
"Don't worry, Grandma," Orochimaru said, turning serious again. "I'm not interested in the Zero-Tail's destructive power. What intrigues me is its vitality—its immense regenerative force. That man, Shinno, had a technique that could restore life itself."
He left the rest unsaid.
While the ANBU and Root operatives were still searching the wreckage of the Sky Fortress, Orochimaru quietly summoned a horde of snakes to scour the ruins for forbidden research notes. He wanted to understand how Shinno had created the Zero-Tail from a fragment of the Nine-Tails' flesh—and how he might use its energy to fill the missing life force of Uzumaki Nano, or perhaps to further his own experiments in biotechnology.
To him, the Zero-Tail was not a monster. It was a treasure.
---
In the Hokage's Office
The atmosphere was heavy. Hiruzen Sarutobi sat silently as Homura Mitokado and Utatane Koharu brought up the same topic yet again.
"The Zero-Tail sealed by Orochimaru—shouldn't we… make use of it?" Homura began cautiously.
"The destruction of the Whirlpool Hidden Village is a warning to us," he continued. "We can't afford to remain complacent. Peace is fragile. Konoha must grow stronger before it's too late."
Koharu nodded. "I agree. The Second Hokage once faced an alliance of enemy nations. We can't guarantee that something similar won't happen again. The other great villages may already be preparing for the next war."
Hiruzen exhaled slowly, rubbing his temples. "I understand your fears. But Orochimaru has already done Konoha a great service—destroying the Sky Fortress, eliminating the greatest threat, and sealing the Zero-Tail. Many lives were spared thanks to the Rebirth Pill he developed. Forcing him to hand over the Zero-Tail would be… foolish."
He looked out the window at the Hokage Monument. "Even as Hokage, I can't compel him to surrender it. All I can do is hope that Orochimaru understands Konoha's situation—and that he chooses to help willingly."
Koharu frowned. "You don't trust him?"
"It's not about trust," Hiruzen said softly. "It's about control."
Homura sighed. "Still, it's worth trying. If nothing else, perhaps he'll listen."
---
Orochimaru's Choice
Moments later, Orochimaru stepped out of the Hokage Building, his face expressionless but his mood dark. He could easily guess what the elders were plotting. They had witnessed Shinno's power firsthand—the overwhelming energy of the Zero-Tail—and now they coveted it.
But the Zero-Tail was his.
If they tried to take it by force, he was ready to disappear. The Flying Thunder God Technique was already prepared; one flicker and he could vanish from Konoha entirely. He had even considered leaving his forehead protector on the Hokage's desk as a final gesture.
If he left the village, who could dare call him a rogue ninja?
He would no longer be a ninja at all—merely a man pursuing knowledge beyond the limits of the shinobi world.
---
The Aftermath Across the Nations
Hidden Mist Village, Land of Water
In his dimly lit office, the Third Mizukage stared at the scrolls retrieved from the Whirlpool ruins. Not a single one contained a complete sealing technique—only scattered theories.
Without the full formulas, developing a seal capable of containing a Tailed Beast was impossible. Even so, he didn't consider the mission a total failure. What puzzled him was the massive loss of life.
Elite Mist ninja had been dispatched, including members of the Kaguya Clan and Hozuki Clan, both possessing powerful kekkei genkai. Yet all had perished.
Could it be sabotage from other villages? The Third Mizukage frowned. The Mist hadn't participated in the original alliance that attacked the Whirlpool, but the possibility of betrayal was high. The same doubts lingered in the Hidden Cloud and Hidden Stone—none of them had obtained anything worthwhile, and all had suffered heavy casualties.
Perhaps the real battle had been between the invaders themselves.
---
Hidden Sand Village, Land of Wind
In the Kazekage's office, the Third Kazekage scowled at the reports. None of his puppeteers or wind-style specialists had returned alive.
He slammed his hand on the desk. "I sent them for worthless scraps! Why did I ever join that foolish operation?"
The Sand Village was already small; every death weighed heavily. Worse, their current Jinchuriki was useless, sealed away due to instability.
The Kazekage clenched his fists in frustration. He suspected treachery. Perhaps the Stone or Cloud ninja had killed his men to eliminate competition and claim the spoils for themselves.
"Collaboration, they said," he muttered bitterly. "What they meant was slaughter."
His jaw tightened. "Next time, I'll trust no one."
---
In the Shadows of Konoha
Deep beneath the village, in the underground base of the Root organization, Danzo Shimura listened calmly as Homura and Koharu voiced their frustrations after Orochimaru's refusal.
"Danzo, we're doing this for Konoha!" Koharu snapped, slamming her palms on the table. "Didn't you feel the Zero-Tail's power during the battle with Shinno? With that strength, we could protect the village from any threat!"
Danzo's expression was cold. "The Zero-Tail is not the Nine-Tails, Koharu. Even if it was created from a fragment of that beast, its nature is unstable. Can you guarantee that its Jinchuriki wouldn't go berserk? Do you remember how many times other villages have suffered disasters because of rampaging Tailed Beasts?"
He looked between them. "If a Zero-Tail Jinchuriki loses control within Konoha, who will bear the responsibility?"
The two elders fell silent.
Danzo continued, his tone sharp as a blade. "The Second Hokage never viewed the Nine-Tails as a weapon. Mito sealed it not for power—but to prevent others from using it. Yet you want to create a Jinchuriki yourselves? That's not strength. That's fear. You're afraid of war before it's even begun."
Koharu's face turned crimson with anger. "You dare call me a coward, Danzo?!" She grabbed him by the collar.
"Koharu, enough!" Homura quickly pulled her back. "Danzo's right. We may have been too hasty."
He sighed. "Konoha isn't weak. We don't need a dangerous creature to prove our strength."
Koharu released Danzo, breathing hard. "You think it's that simple? The Whirlpool Village was destroyed, and we don't even know what secrets their enemies uncovered. If another war comes and we face multiple Jinchuriki on the battlefield, what then? Have you forgotten the Gold and Silver Brothers?"
The mention silenced the room. Those brothers—men who had once swallowed the flesh of the Nine-Tails and survived—had nearly plunged the world into chaos.
"If even a fragment of the Nine-Tails' power caused that much devastation," Koharu whispered, "how much worse will it be with the full power of other Tailed Beasts?"
Danzo crossed his arms. "Then we'll rely on our own strength. Konoha's new generation is already rising—Orochimaru, Jiraiya, Tsunade. They're proof that our village doesn't need to rely on monsters."
Homura nodded slowly. "Hiruzen must have known Orochimaru would refuse us. Maybe he wanted us to learn this lesson ourselves."
Koharu sighed, lowering her gaze. "If only Tsunade had inherited the First Hokage's Wood Release… perhaps we'd have nothing to fear."
The three elders sat in silence, the weight of what was to come pressing heavily over them.
Utatane Koharu sighed softly, while Homura Mitokado and Danzo Shimura stood in silent thought.
They all understood the same truth—if the First Hokage himself possessed Wood Release, then why would Konoha need to fear the Jinchūriki of other villages?
After a short discussion, the two advisors and the Hokage departed from the Root base, leaving only Danzo and Orochimaru behind.
"Orochimaru, what are you thinking?"
Danzo's single visible eye turned toward the pale man beside him, his tone sharp with curiosity.
"I've heard of the Wood Release," Danzo continued, "It was the secret art once used by the First Hokage, Senju Hashirama, to bring an end to the Warring States era."
From the shadows stepped Orochimaru, his serpentine features half-hidden beneath a robe woven from white snakeskin.
"Danzo-sama," he said with that familiar silken tone, "I don't believe trying to forcibly recreate Wood Release is wise."
At that time, Orochimaru had not expected that Konoha's higher-ups would even consider such an idea—reproducing the powers of Senju Hashirama through experiments. He disapproved, especially since those experiments would involve living test subjects.
He already knew the outcome.
Those who volunteered for the experiments, hoping to awaken the legendary Wood Release, all met gruesome deaths. Instead of gaining power, their bodies were devoured from within by the Hashirama cells, transforming them into monstrous figures with wooden spikes bursting from their flesh.
"Instead of wasting time chasing the impossible," Orochimaru said, his golden eyes gleaming, "I suggest that we establish a Konoha Sealing Team—a specialized unit designed to restrain the Jinchūriki of other villages."
He paused, letting the idea sink in. "Sealing Techniques remain the most effective counter to Tailed Beasts. If Konoha formed a team of shinobi proficient in such arts, we could easily suppress hostile Jinchūriki before they caused chaos."
Orochimaru was not the man from the "original story." He refused to conduct cruel experiments on humans—especially on children.
If he had been willing to cross that line, his advancements in biotechnology would have far surpassed their current pace.
Danzo's expression softened with interest. "A Sealing Team, you say? That might be possible… but if we start training them now, would we have enough time?"
He was intrigued. Orochimaru's logic was sound—if Tailed Beasts were too dangerous to kill outright, then sealing them was the best alternative.
After all, the Uzumaki Clan's sealing techniques were proven to be exceptionally effective against such creatures.
"Danzo-sama," Orochimaru replied, "while it's difficult for one person to perform a complex sealing on their own, the process can be divided into multiple parts. Each ninja can handle a specific step. This way, the technique becomes easier to master, requires less chakra per individual, and is far more powerful when performed as a group."
Danzo's visible eye widened slightly, impressed. He had never considered that sealing techniques could be broken into steps and distributed among a team. It was a simple but revolutionary concept.
Orochimaru continued calmly, "There's no one in Konoha more skilled in sealing than Grandma Mito. Even when Uzushiogakure still existed, there was no one who could rival her."
He thought briefly of Uzumaki Chigusa, still recovering in the Land of Waves. He had already arranged for her to meet with Mito Uzumaki in secret. It would ease both their minds.
"Learning these techniques isn't just about power," Orochimaru added. "It's about ensuring Konoha's safety. Grandma Mito will understand that—and she will not refuse."
He had always wondered why, despite possessing someone as gifted as Uzumaki Mito, Konoha had never established an official Sealing Team.
Even now, the decision baffled him. Why rely on a few experts when they could train an entire division?
Danzo's lips curled into a rare smile. "Orochimaru, you've solved yet another problem for Konoha! I knew seeking you out would pay off."
Orochimaru didn't respond. He merely gazed back silently, aware that Danzo's compliments were as hollow as his motives.
He knew that sealing a Tailed Beast was possible—but using those same techniques on a Jinchūriki? That was something few dared to attempt.
In fact, the Orochimaru of the "original timeline" had once used the Five Elements Seal to disrupt Naruto's control over the Nine-Tails.
"Danzo-sama," Orochimaru finally said, his tone polite but distant, "if that's all, I'll take my leave. I have much research to do."
"Of course," Danzo said with a grin. "If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. Just… don't make too much noise while you work."
"I understand," Orochimaru replied with a faint smile before vanishing into the shadows.
When he was gone, Danzo folded his hands behind his back.
He mulled over how to present Orochimaru's idea to the Third Hokage in a way that would favor himself.
If he told Hiruzen that the concept came from Orochimaru, it might plant seeds of jealousy and doubt between master and student—an outcome Danzo would happily welcome.
After all, as long as the situation didn't harm him, everything was acceptable.
Sometimes, the right choice was more powerful than effort—and Danzo always knew how to make the right choice.
---
The Hokage's Office
"Hiruzen, why the long face?" Danzo asked as he stepped into the office.
The Third Hokage looked up, weary and irritable, his temples aching from endless paperwork. Seeing Danzo's smug expression only made it worse.
"Danzo… what do you want now?" Hiruzen muttered, rubbing his forehead.
"This time, I've brought good news," Danzo said, pretending to sound humble as he presented Orochimaru's proposal.
"A Sealing Team…?" Hiruzen murmured, his eyes widening slightly. "That's actually… a reasonable idea. It could indeed be an effective countermeasure against enemy Jinchūriki."
But even as he spoke, suspicion flickered in his eyes. Danzo wasn't known for innovative thinking, and this idea seemed far too refined to be his.
"Danzo," he asked quietly, "was this… your idea?"
Danzo smiled slyly. "No, it was Orochimaru's."
Hiruzen's hand clenched into a fist under the desk. His talented student had come up with such a brilliant plan—yet he had told Danzo instead of him.
Danzo gave a patronizing pat to his shoulder and said, "I understand how you feel, old friend," before walking out, leaving Hiruzen seething.
Hiruzen stared after him, face flushed with anger and frustration. He didn't know whether to laugh or scream.
Thousands of words condensed into a single sigh.
"Ah…" he muttered, staring at the Hokage hat on his desk. "Being Hokage is… exhausting."
He looked up at the portrait of Tobirama Senju on the wall. "Lord Tobirama… why did you choose me?"
---
Orochimaru's Laboratory
Meanwhile, inside a dimly lit laboratory illuminated by pale green light, Orochimaru examined the scrolls his serpents had retrieved from the ruins of the Sky Fortress.
"This…" he whispered, eyes narrowing.
The scroll contained a Forbidden Technique—a method that could reverse cellular decay and remove the natural limits on cell division. It was known as Flesh Rebirth.
However, the technique relied on the chakra and life force of the Zero-Tails. In essence, it drained the creature's power to sustain the user's life—an exchange of vitality for immortality.
No wonder Shinno, during his battle with Hiruzen and the others, had survived for so long.
He couldn't be killed easily, because his body continuously absorbed the Zero-Tails' chakra and life force.
It was a brutal, parasitic cycle—"If you can't kill me, then I'll consume you."
Yet even such a dangerous technique had its merits.
The reversal of cellular aging, the removal of division limits—these could be the keys to true regeneration.
Unfortunately, Shinno had only achieved it by exploiting the Zero-Tails. Once the creature was lost, his body reverted to its fragile human state, as thin and frail as an old reed.
Orochimaru's eyes gleamed with fascination. "So the key to overcoming the limit of cell division… might be this."
If he could unlock that limit, then his Regeneration Technique would no longer consume the user's lifespan.
There were two possible research paths—one involving the Zero-Tails, and the other involving his own altered body.
Though he appeared human, Orochimaru's cells had long ceased to be ordinary. His physiology was closer to that of the White Snake Sage itself, capable of near-infinite regeneration.
---
The Whirlpool Village's End
Over half a month had passed since the combined operation of the Four Great Ninja Villages against Uzushiogakure.
Though many had scavenged the ruins, few realized the importance of one particular structure—the Mask Storage Temple. To most, it seemed like just another ancient shrine.
Then, one night, the temple vanished completely, leaving behind only a massive crater, as though something had been dug out.
When the news spread, all the villages immediately accused one another of the theft.
The fragile cooperation that had once existed between them shattered overnight.
Each believed the others were responsible for their own shinobi's deaths during the invasion.
Tensions rose; suspicion turned to open hostility. The peace maintained by the Five Great Nations began to crumble.
Friction escalated rapidly among the hidden villages—and soon, conflict would be inevitable.
---
White Snake Pharmaceutical Company, Land of Waves
Orochimaru sat casually on a sofa, a cold smile curving his lips as he read a scroll of intelligence reports. With a flick of his fingers, the scroll burst into flames and crumbled into ash.
"How predictable…" he murmured.
It didn't surprise him that the alliance between the Four Great Villages had dissolved so quickly. Their cooperation had always been driven by profit. Once those shared interests vanished, betrayal became inevitable.
Their campaign against the Land of Fire and the Land of Whirlpools had been the spark—the prelude to the Second Shinobi World War.
Even without Hanzo openly declaring war, it was only a matter of time before the flames consumed the world once again.
---
White Snake Pharmaceutical Rooftop
The rooftop of the White Snake Pharmaceutical building was a beautiful space filled with lush greenery and colorful flowers. On one side stood a landing platform for vehicles; on the other, a shimmering swimming pool beside a sleek modern bar.
Most of the staff belonged to the Iburi Clan, loyal to Orochimaru.
Under the warm sunlight, Uzumaki Chigusa reclined lazily on a beach chair, a mature-themed book resting in her hands.
Without looking up, she murmured, "Bring me a drink… thank you…"
A familiar voice answered, cold and smooth as silk.
"Hmm? You're well enough to drink already?"
Chigusa's body froze. She lifted her gaze to see Orochimaru standing before her, his golden eyes gleaming like those of a predator.
"O–Orochimaru?!"
Her expression stiffened, and she forced an awkward smile. "Just joking! Just joking, that's all…"
"How's your body?" he asked, his tone calm but observant. Her complexion had color again, and her chakra felt stable. The vitality of the Uzumaki bloodline truly was extraordinary.
"I'm… fine now," she replied softly, rising to her feet. She had gained some strength—and perhaps a bit of weight—since her recovery began.
"Good," Orochimaru said, his voice almost gentle. "When you're ready, I'll take you to see Grandma Mito."
Chigusa's eyes flickered with hesitation. Her hands tightened around the book.
"Orochimaru… do you really think I should see her?"
She looked down, her voice trembling. "Don't get me wrong. I just… I don't know how to face Lady Mito after everything that happened."
Orochimaru rested a hand on her shoulder. "Chigusa, you did everything you could. Without you, even more people would have died in Uzushiogakure."
He sighed. "In this world, aside from Senju Hashirama himself, there's hardly anyone who could single-handedly change the course of fate. Go see Grandma Mito. Let her know you're safe—that will ease her heart."
He turned his gaze toward the horizon. "If not for that man's madness, none of this would have happened. Black Zetsu's schemes are nothing without a pawn to act them out."
"Orochimaru," Chigusa said after a moment, "Konoha… they know about us."
"Konoha is far too busy," Orochimaru replied with a faint smirk. "They're repairing the damage from the Sky Ninja attack and searching for the remains of the Sky Fortress. No one has time to look for you. You're safe here in the Land of Waves."
Indeed, Hiruzen Sarutobi was currently buried under endless duties—reconstruction, diplomacy, and reports to the Fire Daimyō.
Orochimaru couldn't help but chuckle to himself.
Only a fool, he thought, would willingly accept the title of Hokage. So much power—and yet so many burdens.
At that moment, a soft voice called out behind him.
"Orochimaru!"
He turned to see Uzumaki Naino approaching with a bright smile. Her long crimson hair fluttered in the breeze, her expression delicate but warm.
"Naino," Orochimaru greeted. "How are you feeling?"
Orochimaru stood in the dimly lit room, his golden eyes glinting as Uzumaki Naino approached, her steps soft yet unsteady. She forced a small smile, though the fatigue in her movements betrayed her.
"I'm fine… just a bit weaker than usual," Naino said quietly, brushing a strand of faded red hair behind her ear. A hint of worry clouded her eyes. "Will I always feel like this?"
Orochimaru's expression softened for a brief moment.
She didn't regret the choice she had made — using a forbidden technique to save her people — but the toll it had taken on her vitality was undeniable. Even her once-bright scarlet hair had dimmed.
"Don't worry," Orochimaru replied with that familiar, snake-like calm. "My research on the Zero-Tails is nearing a breakthrough. Once I'm done, your chakra flow — and your hair — will return to their full strength."
Her eyes brightened. "Mm! I believe you, Lord Orochimaru!"
Before he could react, she stepped forward and hugged him tightly.
For all his coldness, Orochimaru allowed it — if only for a heartbeat.
---
Then, as his lips curved mischievously, he whispered, "Ah, by the way… Chief Chigusa mistook me for a waitress earlier. Said she wanted sake."
Naino froze. Her eyes widened, then narrowed dangerously. "Chief Chigusa… is what he said true?"
"Huh? Wait—" Uzumaki Chigusa stammered, glancing helplessly between them. But Orochimaru was already wearing that infuriating 'plan succeeded' smirk.
"I've told you a hundred times!" Naino's hair rose, swirling with chakra as she clenched her fists. "You're still recovering! No alcohol!"
"E-Ehh?! Naino, I'm sorry!" Chigusa's wail echoed through the roof.
Moments later, Orochimaru found himself on the receiving end of a glare from the humiliated chief. Chigusa lowered her hood dramatically, muttering, "Orochimaru… you troublesome little brat…"
He chuckled under his breath, satisfied with his chaos.
"Now, now," he said, waving off her anger. "Let's go. We're visiting Grandma Mito."
---
The Senju Residence — Land of Fire, Konoha
To welcome Uzumaki Chigusa, Uzumaki Mito had already set up a powerful barrier, concealing the gathering from prying eyes. She had even coaxed her grandson Nawaki to sleep early — the boy's curiosity was boundless, and she preferred no interruptions tonight.
As she held the marked kunai inscribed with the Flying Thunder God seal, Mito's eyes gleamed. "They're here."
Shhh—!
A flash of light signaled their arrival. Orochimaru and Chigusa appeared within the Senju residence, the faint ozone scent of teleportation lingering in the air.
"Lady Mito…" Chigusa began, but her voice faltered as Mito stepped forward and embraced her warmly.
"You've worked hard," the elder said softly, patting her back.
Tears welled in Chigusa's eyes. "I… failed to protect our village."
"No," Mito whispered, her tone motherly and full of compassion. "You did everything you could. The fact that so many survived is a blessing."
She smiled faintly. "And seeing you alive… that's enough."
---
As the conversation settled, Mito listened carefully to Chigusa's stories — tales of rebuilding, of surviving in the Land of Waves, and of how the Uzumaki clan, despite their losses, still held hope.
When Chigusa finished, Mito's shoulders relaxed for the first time in years. "So the people live well… That brings me great comfort."
Her gaze shifted toward Orochimaru, who was scribbling notes in a small black book, as if nothing around him mattered. "Orochimaru… it was your idea, wasn't it? The Sealing Team?"
Orochimaru froze mid-sentence, then turned slowly with a forced smile. "How could that be—? Fine, yes, it was my suggestion."
"Mm-hm." Mito pinched his cheek with grandmotherly mischief. "You and your bright ideas. Always causing me trouble."
"Grandma Mito," he said in protest, "it was Hiruzen's decision! He's the Hokage. I only gave a little advice! You can't possibly blame me!"
"Do you think everyone has your curiosity?" she scolded gently, still smiling. "Researching is one thing, child. Taking responsibility is another."
Orochimaru sighed, utterly defeated. "Fine… blame the Hokage. He's used to it by now."
Chigusa giggled quietly from behind her sleeve, clearly enjoying the rare sight of Orochimaru being scolded.
When he caught her smirk, Orochimaru shot her a sidelong glare that clearly said, You'll pay for that later.
---
"I agree with forming the Sealing Team," Mito declared. "And since you suggested it, you'll help train them."
"What?!" Orochimaru's composure cracked. "Grandma Mito, I'm… quite busy."
"Oh?" Her sweet smile turned slightly terrifying. "Too busy for Konoha's future?"
"…I regret every word I've ever spoken," he muttered under his breath. But there was no escaping her.
"That's settled then." She patted his head fondly. "You'll do fine."
Orochimaru's golden eyes twitched. Her smile is scarier than any curse mark I've seen…
With a resigned sigh, he asked, "Do you two have anything else to say? I'll send Chigusa back soon — the barrier's been active too long already."
Mito nodded gently. "No, dear. Just knowing the survivors are safe is enough."
Her wise eyes softened. She had watched Orochimaru grow from a curious six-year-old into a cold, calculating genius. She knew better than anyone that his 'cooperation' with the White Snake Pharmaceutical Company was more than just business.
"Chigusa," she said warmly, "you did well. Even Hashirama once said, no one can save everyone. Not even the God of Shinobi."
Chigusa smiled faintly and bowed her head. "Yes, Lady Mito."
---
The Underground Laboratory — Later
In the vast subterranean chamber, the air thrummed with power. The monstrous form of the Zero-Tails coiled like a massive serpent, its inky body wrapped in intricate sealing formulae that spiraled across its skin.
It raised its eyeless head, sensing Orochimaru's presence.
The serpent sage held a syringe, drawing blood from the creature's hide. The crimson liquid glowed faintly in the tube, pulsing as though alive.
This was not the first extraction. Bound by the Twin Extremes Seal, the Zero-Tails remained docile — for now. But its chakra continued to swell, feeding on ambient natural energy.
Orochimaru studied it carefully, a spark of excitement flickering in his eyes.
It consumes natural energy and converts it to chakra… just like the Tailed Beasts.
Perhaps this is how the gods once shaped life.
In another corner of the lab, a dozen data sheets fluttered under the ventilation. Orochimaru examined his own recent analysis — and smirked.
His cells had changed.
Through countless experiments and exposure to Ryuchi Cave's Sage energy, his body had begun to mutate, drawing closer to the physiology of the Three Snake Princesses — the immortal sages of Ryuchi Cave.
He estimated his current life expectancy at over a century and a half.
"Still far from perfection," he murmured, watching the data turn to ash in his hands. "A thousand-year lifespan like the Snake Sages remains beyond reach… for now."
---
Just then, the laboratory door creaked open. Hyuga Mio entered, elegant yet cold, her white eyes gleaming behind gold-rimmed glasses. Her long black hair was tied neatly into a bun, and her white lab coat swayed as she walked.
"Orochimaru," she said, placing a clipboard on the table. "These are the new Zero-Tails blood reports."
Her mesh shirt and slim armor gleamed faintly under the lights — more ceremonial than functional, but it suited her.
She frowned slightly as she noticed the ashes in the bin. "What did you burn?"
"Old data," Orochimaru replied. "Researching my own cells is a waste of time. The Zero-Tails' potential is far more promising."
He waved the syringe lazily. "We're shifting our experiments. Prepare new test subjects."
"As you wish," Mio said calmly, then paused. "But… what about your unfinished training at Ryuchi Cave?"
Orochimaru stopped mid-step, a grin creeping across his face. "It's complete," he said simply. "No need to return. My Sage Mode is… perfect."
He wasn't exaggerating. His body had shed its humanity, evolving from serpent to dragon — the highest form Ryuchi Cave could offer. Dangerous, yes. But worth every drop of pain.
Still, his mind never stopped racing.
If I could create a fluid contact lens infused with Sage Chakra, it might counter Genjutsu — even the Mangekyo Sharingan's illusions.
Or perhaps… a serpent's cornea, capable of filtering hostile chakra frequencies…
He chuckled softly. There's always another project.
---
His laboratory was a fortress of ideas.
Research on Chakra poisons continued — toxins that devoured chakra and multiplied within the victim's body. Progress on Zero-Tails cell biotechnology was promising, offering regeneration beyond even Hashirama's.
Meanwhile, at his secondary lab, work on Sage Art Explosives — chakra bombs fueled by refined natural energy — was nearing completion.
Even the Eye Sealing Curse Mark, his countermeasure to ocular jutsu, was under refinement. Though it couldn't yet restrain Rinnegan-level eyes, he considered the time invested worthwhile.
He hadn't abandoned his dream of creating Truth-Seeking Orbs manually. Despite endless failures, he persisted. Those orbs represented the pinnacle of chakra control — purer than any bloodline limit.
"If I could forge one…" he whispered, his eyes glowing with madness and longing, "…even Kusanagi would be worthless in comparison."
---
Then, he groaned audibly as a thought struck him.
"Oh, right. Grandma Mito's Sealing Team lectures…"
He buried his face in his hands.
"Of all things, teaching. And I can't even send a clone — she'd see through it immediately!"
Hyuga Mio tilted her head, expression unreadable. "You're the one who volunteered."
Orochimaru sighed in defeat. "I was young… foolish… talkative."
"You're fourteen."
"Exactly my point."
Mio chuckled under her breath as she left the lab, leaving him to his thoughts.
When the door closed, Orochimaru exhaled slowly and turned back to the restrained Zero-Tails, its eerie hum vibrating through the chamber.
"So many projects… so little time," he muttered, eyes gleaming with unholy light.
He placed a hand against the beast's seal and smiled faintly.
"Don't worry. We'll both evolve soon."
The serpent within him stirred — and the laboratory lights dimmed.
Beyond the borders of Konoha stood the crumbling remains of the Sky Ninja Air Fortress. Once a weapon of terror, now it was nothing but scorched steel and broken stone — a silent monument to the strength and unity of the Leaf.
After long debate, the Konoha Council had decided not to demolish it. Instead, they left it standing as a symbol — a reminder that when the people of Konoha united, even the sky itself could be brought down.
The ruins were thoroughly searched, cataloged, and finally opened to the public. What had once been a battlefield was now a tourist attraction, a place where villagers came to marvel at Konoha's victory.
It was in front of this ruin that Jiraiya fell to his knees, clutching his head dramatically.
"Why did this happen?! Why was I training at Mount Myōboku when the village was attacked?!" he cried out. "Was it because I wasn't in Konoha that the enemy dared to attack?! This is all my fault!"
For a fleeting second, those around him thought they were witnessing heartfelt guilt — a hero regretting his absence in the village's darkest hour.
But then they heard the rest of his words.
And they stared.
So… he's blaming the attack on the enemy's fear of him?
"Isn't this guy… stupid?" someone whispered.
A mother quickly pulled her child close. "Don't look, baby. Staring at fools for too long makes you one too."
Jiraiya flushed bright red, realizing the mockery. He scrambled to his feet, dusting himself off.
"Pfft…"
A quiet chuckle escaped from behind him.
Jiraiya turned sharply. "Hey! What are you laughing at?!"
Orochimaru, his old teammate, raised his hood just enough for his face to catch the light — calm, poised, and annoyingly beautiful.
"Jiraiya," he said smoothly, "you've just returned from Mount Myōboku, haven't you?"
Jiraiya blinked. "B–big sister? Who are you?!"
Before he could say another word, Orochimaru's fist met his head with surgical precision.
Thwack.
"You idiot."
Jiraiya rubbed the bump on his skull. "Ouch! Hey, you've really changed… What happened to you? Have you been taking some kind of… growth pill?"
He leaned closer, squinting, grinning. "Don't tell me you've invented one that makes you taller and prettier! Come on, Orochimaru, share the secret! Just one pill — make me eighteen again!"
"Jiraiya," Orochimaru said flatly, stepping aside in disgust, "I haven't been taking pills. My change is the result of my training in Ryūchi Cave."
"Ryūchi Cave?!" Jiraiya gasped. "How was it? How was the training? How was the food?!"
His expression turned dark, haunted. "You… didn't have to eat bugs, did you?"
Orochimaru's golden eyes twitched. "No. I brought my own food. I had no intention of turning into an insectivore like you."
Jiraiya collapsed to his knees again. "You're so cunning! You should've suffered too!"
Orochimaru ignored him and, with deliberate smugness, pulled out a photograph. "The ones who trained me were the Three Snake Princesses. Here."
He handed the picture over.
Jiraiya's eyes widened. Three stunning women — each elegant, regal, and smiling beside Orochimaru.
"No… this isn't fair…" Jiraiya whispered, staring in horror. "Mount Myōboku was just frogs! Frogs everywhere!"
Memories of Fukasaku's wrinkled face and Shima's nagging voice assaulted his mind. He slammed his forehead into a nearby tree. "Why?! Why did I get frogs while you got beauties?!"
Orochimaru sighed, utterly done. "Are you quite finished?"
Jiraiya, sniffling and drooling, muttered, "If I had even one pretty girl teaching me Sage Mode, I'd have mastered it in weeks…"
"Disgusting," Orochimaru said, stepping back as if Jiraiya carried a contagious disease. "Try acting normal once in your life."
Changing the subject, Orochimaru asked, "Has the Great Toad Sage given you his prophecy yet?"
Jiraiya blinked. "Not yet."
Orochimaru crossed his arms. He could tell from Jiraiya's tone that the prophecy wasn't far off. Within a few years, the great wars between villages would reignite. When that happened, Jiraiya wouldn't have time for prophecy or peace.
Jiraiya frowned slightly. Part of him dreaded hearing it. The Great Toad Sage's prophecies were rarely good news. Did he really want to know his fate — or fight against it?
He looked up at the sky, uncertain. For once, the clown fell silent.
---
Scene Transition — The Laboratory
Far beneath the surface of Konoha, in a hidden chamber illuminated by green light, Orochimaru's latest experiment was underway.
Inside a massive culture tank, a lump of flesh — grown from the Zero-Tails' cells — pulsed and writhed. The flesh absorbed the nutrient solution and natural energy around it, swelling larger with every second.
Beside the tank, Hyuga Mio activated her Byakugan. Veins bulged around her eyes as she gasped.
"Zero-Tails cells are incredible," she murmured. "They're growing at a rate I didn't think possible. Can they… divide infinitely?"
Orochimaru watched, hands clasped behind his back. His eyes gleamed with scientific fascination.
"It reminds me of Hashirama's cells," he said softly. "Even in death, that man's body remains a treasure trove of mysteries."
The growth of the Zero-Tails tissue, endlessly multiplying, reminded him of cancer cells — though far more stable and adaptive. He had already tested them on several animals, observing how the tissue fused with hosts without killing them. Over time, the hosts began to transform, becoming something eerily similar to the Zero-Tails itself.
He couldn't help but admire it. The balance between absorption and survival… perfect.
No wonder Shinno had once sought to merge the Zero-Tails with the Nine-Tails. If not for its inherent weakness, Orochimaru might have believed it possible.
---
"When I finish this project," Orochimaru mused aloud, "I'll head to the Sand Village. Bunbuku — the monk who once hosted the One-Tail — will make an excellent subject for my next study."
Mio blinked. "Another study?"
"Yes," Orochimaru replied. "I want to understand how a Jinchūriki can survive after a Tailed Beast is extracted. If I can sustain their life force artificially, the possibilities are endless."
He turned back to the tank. "If the host dies because their chakra is removed, then perhaps the solution lies in replacing that vitality. The Zero-Tails' tissue could serve as a medium — a substitute life source."
He snapped his fingers. "Mio, remove the tissue sample from the tank. I need to test something."
Hyuga Mio obeyed. Wearing protective gloves, she carefully extracted the writhing flesh and placed it on the central platform.
Orochimaru retrieved a scroll, covered in intricate red markings — the formula for the Reverse Cursed Seal Blood Imprint.
"This is based on the Uzumaki clan's forbidden technique," Orochimaru explained. "The original Cursed Seal Blood Imprint sacrifices the user's life force to curse an enemy. I've inverted it — a reversal. The seal will absorb life energy from another source to replenish the caster's own."
Mio hesitated. "You're going to drain the Zero-Tails' life force?"
"Precisely," Orochimaru said, eyes narrowing. "By combining this with my Transformation of Flesh technique, I can restore vitality rather than consume it."
He bit his thumb, pressing blood onto the scroll. The seals glowed red, the parchment trembling as if alive.
"Reverse Cursed Seal Blood Imprint!"
The sealing script flew from the scroll, wrapping around the pulsating flesh. Orochimaru's body shimmered with Sage Chakra — white horns sprouting from his temples, a pale serpent's tail coiling behind him.
The ground cracked under the pressure of his power.
"Byakugan," Mio whispered, activating her eyes again.
Through her vision, she could see it clearly — the seals were draining the life force from the Zero-Tails tissue. The energy flowed through the air in ribbons of crimson light, converging back into the scroll.
"Orochimaru…" she breathed. "You're… actually pulling life energy directly into the seal."
The flesh convulsed violently, shriveling, blackening, until it crumbled to dust. The once-dark seals now glowed a brilliant red before settling back onto the parchment.
Orochimaru smiled, his voice almost reverent.
"As I suspected. The Reverse Cursed Seal Blood Imprint merges perfectly with the Transformation of Flesh. The formula extracts life force from the Zero-Tails tissue and uses it to restore the caster's vitality."
He tied a cord around the scroll, admiring it like a prized jewel. "This is the missing key to the Regeneration Technique — a way to heal without consuming one's own life."
He turned to Mio, explaining patiently, "The process doesn't extend life, but it prevents the technique from shortening it. In essence, it transfers the cost of regeneration to an external source — in this case, the Zero-Tails' cells."
Mio's eyes widened. "So… with enough of this tissue, you could achieve near-infinite regeneration."
"Exactly," Orochimaru said, pleased by her quick understanding. "Of course, it requires preparation. But the principle works."
He handed the scroll to her. "Take it. If you ever find yourself near death, tear it open. The seal will spread across your body and convert the absorbed life force into regeneration energy."
Mio stared at him. "You'd really entrust me with this?"
Orochimaru smiled faintly — a rare, almost human smile. "You've earned it. Your Byakugan and insight have saved me months of work. You even gave up your career as a ninja to assist me. I should be the one thanking you."
Mio looked down, her voice quiet. "I'm just tired of the shinobi life."
Orochimaru chuckled softly. "You don't even believe that yourself."
He didn't call her out further. He didn't need to.
---
Elsewhere — The Sage Art Division
In another chamber, Mitsu examined a small fragment of Sage Art Explosives resting in his hand — a device so potent that a single piece could blast a crater into the Earth.
He had once doubted whether ordinary explosives could contain Sage Chakra. Now he knew the truth. These materials, born of nature itself, were more compatible with Sage Chakra than with human chakra.
"It's because of Natural Energy," he murmured. "The very origin of all things."
The realization fascinated him. If he could refine this technique further — if he could get the Three Snake Princesses of Ryūchi Cave to forge such explosives — he might create a weapon capable of rivaling even Uchiha Madara.
He sighed deeply. "But without them, it's all up to me. Producing Sage Art Explosives alone is a nightmare."
He set the fragment down gently, gazing at it with both awe and exhaustion.
The world was changing — Sage Arts, Forbidden Techniques, unnatural regeneration — all inching closer to the power once held only by gods.
And somewhere deep beneath Konoha, Orochimaru smiled, already envisioning the next step in his evolution