The hospital ward fell silent as Orochimaru entered.
Medical ninjas exchanged glances, recognition flickering across their faces. One of the Sannin—and not just any Sannin, but the legendary scientist himself. Whispers died as he moved deeper into the room, his presence commanding without effort.
"Regarding medical ninjutsu," Orochimaru said smoothly, "while I may not rival Tsunade, I have made... certain achievements. I believe I can be of use."
Anko Mitarashi watched him with barely concealed curiosity. This was Orochimaru? The name carried weight in Konoha's underground, but seeing him in person struck something unexpected—a strange, unsettling feeling she couldn't quite name.
Seiran's eyes narrowed from the hospital bed. He kept his body relaxed, but his mind was already calculating. Whatever had brought Orochimaru here, it wasn't simple charity.
"I came for Seiran," Orochimaru continued, his tone carrying the ring of sincerity that made it almost convincing. "I'm confident I can help him recover. If you permit it, I'd like to examine him alone."
Shibi Aburame's gaze locked onto Seiran. The boy considered it carefully. In this timeline, Orochimaru hadn't defected yet. His obsession with immortality remained personal, not dangerous—not with Shibi standing guard outside. More importantly, Seiran needed what only Orochimaru could provide.
"Fine," he said.
The ward door clicked shut, leaving them alone.
"What do you want?" Seiran asked without preamble.
Orochimaru's smile widened. "Direct. I appreciate that about you, Seiran. Juzo Biwa, an elite Kaguya—that alone would make me reconsider engagement. Yet you not only survived. Impressive."
"I did more than survive," Seiran replied coldly.
Orochimaru's eyes flashed with interest. He moved closer, studying Seiran's body with methodical precision. The more he observed, the deeper his smile became.
"The first dual-bloodline ninja in Hyuga history. Top genin of this generation." His voice carried genuine fascination. "This physiology... unparalleled vitality. And this regenerative power—"
"Three Electromagnetic Manipulation upgrades," Seiran interrupted. "My body transcends normal human limits. The life magnetic field maintains constant cellular repair."
"But not perfectly," Orochimaru said, his tone shifting to something more clinical. "You've used a forbidden technique—something that damages cells at a fundamental level. Your chakra has been squeezed to its limit."
Seiran said nothing. Tyrant Mode: Electromagnetic Sovereign always exacted a price. Push the body too far, and even his enhanced physiology had limits. Recovery took time. Lots of it.
"You've come to the right person," Orochimaru continued. "I've developed a secret technique—[Cell Activation]. Three years of research. It repairs cellular damage and strengthens unique physiques like yours."
"What's the price?" Seiran asked quietly.
"Cell samples," Orochimaru said without hesitation. "Hair, blood, fresh tissue. A dual-bloodline Hyuga with this rare constitution? I can't imagine what possibilities lie within."
Seiran considered it. Orochimaru was a predator, yes—but also a scientist who valued his subjects. A quick agreement was the safest path.
"Yes."
Orochimaru laughed. "Cheerful as always."
He withdrew a scroll, spreading its contents across the bed: test tubes, scalpels, tweezers. His hands moved with practiced precision—careful, deliberate, almost gentle despite the clinical nature of the work. Seiran watched intently, confirming nothing beyond sampling occurred.
When it was finished, Orochimaru handed over a second scroll.
"The cultivation method for Cell Activation is simple enough. Your memory should absorb it quickly. You can practice from this bed. I think you'll find it... beneficial."
He turned to leave.
"Wait," Seiran called out. "I hope we can continue working together."
Orochimaru paused. Understanding bloomed across his face, followed by genuine amusement.
"Ambitious, Seiran? Or bound by something..." He trailed off, the pieces clearly clicking into place. The Caged Bird Curse Mark. Of course. And if anyone in the world could unlock such a seal, it would be him.
The smile on his face deepened. He imagined it—a completely unfettered Hyuga Seiran. The possibilities were intoxicating.
"An interesting proposition," he said, and walked out.
The moment the door opened, anxious voices flooded in.
"Are you all right?"
"How do you feel?"
"Much better," Seiran assured them, managing a smile. "Lord Orochimaru was very helpful."
"Excellent. Then I'll take my leave," Orochimaru said, already heading for the exit. Hungry for his laboratory, hungry to begin his analysis.
Medical ninjas bowed respectfully as he passed. "Thank you for your assistance, Lord Orochimaru."
He acknowledged them with a nod and continued down the corridor.
Anko Mitarashi stood frozen by the window, her fist clenched so tightly her nails bit into her palm. Her eyes were distant, conflicted—as if warring with a decision that terrified her.
Then she breathed in sharply, resolved.
She bolted from the ward, caught up to Orochimaru in the hallway, and dropped into a deep bow, her entire body trembling.
"Lord Orochimaru!" she shouted, her voice carrying equal parts hope and desperation. "Please take me as your apprentice!"