Konoha.
Inside Orochimaru's laboratory.
Numerous streams of data refreshed across the screen before him.
As he worked, he glanced at a cultivation tank beside him.
An embryo floated inside, already grown to the size of a fist.
Behind Orochimaru stood Tsunade and Dan Katō, Karin, Kimimaro, and Haku.
After checking all the data, Orochimaru gave a slight nod.
He picked up a scroll beside him and examined it once more.
It bore the mark of a Grass Ninja, apparently a secret technique of the Grass Ninja.
Once he confirmed everything was correct, Orochimaru walked over to Haku.
"Let me ask you one last time, Haku. Have you made up your mind?"
Haku nodded, his calm expression carrying unwavering resolve.
"Lord Orochimaru, I leave it to you."
Orochimaru had only asked as a matter of routine, and the answer did not surprise him.
People with unwavering convictions were his favorite, because scientific progress always required someone to make sacrifices.
Even so, to keep Shamu from tearing his laboratory apart when he returned.
Orochimaru had made quite a few preparations.
"Stand here." Orochimaru pointed to the massive formation on the floor.
Haku was already familiar with the procedure.
He stepped forward and took his place.
Seeing Kimimaro looking at him with concern, Haku tilted his head and smiled. His eyes curved like crescents, making him look especially adorable.
You don't need to worry about me, Kimimaro. This is my choice. No matter how it ends, I won't regret it.
Though Haku said nothing, the determination in his eyes conveyed all of that to Kimimaro.
Kimimaro raised his hand and looked at the Karma in his palm, then let out a breath.
Tsunade and Dan Katō also wore complicated expressions, but things had reached this point. All they could do was prepare themselves