"What is it, Orochimaru?"
Orochimaru's expression darkened. "Did you have Shisui use Kotoamatsukami on me?"
Shamu nodded and said naturally, "Yes."
Orochimaru laughed in anger at Shamu's attitude. "You actually admitted it outright."
Shamu said helplessly, "Gaining your trust would have taken far too long. I felt that if we kept guarding against each other, we'd waste a great deal of time."
"Although I used Kotoamatsukami on you, I only skipped the process of building trust. After all, I've always regarded you as a partner over these years."
Orochimaru's expression eased slightly. "And you weren't worried I'd find out?"
Shamu stepped forward and slung an arm around Orochimaru's shoulders. "There's a saying: judge actions, not intentions. Judge intentions, and no one in this world is flawless."
"Of all my projects, is there anyone besides you in this world who could complete them? We're already pressed for time. Skipping the trust-building stage saves us time, doesn't it?"
Orochimaru snorted coldly and shook off Shamu's hand. "So your ability to foresee the future was fake?"
Shamu shook his head. "That part was real. Otherwise, why would I have crossed mountains and rivers to find you and work with you?"
"In this world, I can't find another scientist as pure as you. No one else's research ability can compare to yours."
Shamu was not simply flattering him. He genuinely believed it.
Others relied on bloodlines, fathers, and power.
Only Orochimaru relied on technology.
Although Orochimaru was not someone who would get carried away after a little praise, he could feel Shamu's sincere admiration for him.
The small resentment in Orochimaru's heart dissipated. Shamu did have a good eye.
Still, if Orochimaru forgave Shamu so easily, he would lose face.
He kept a cold expression. "How do you intend to account for this?"
"Ah,