Time was running out.
At this moment, Orochimaru's body was forcibly rejecting his soul and consciousness.
That once incomparably powerful body, which had controlled everything, was now like a traitor betraying its master, ruthlessly driving out its inner core strength.
Not only that, but the people Orochimaru had personally branded with the Curse Seal were also undergoing horrifying changes one after another—they were all gradually turning into White Zetsu, losing the vibrant signs of life they had once possessed.
In the face of this lifeless world, even Orochimaru, who possessed power that could shake heaven and earth, felt helpless at this moment, unable to offer any effective resistance.
The corners of Orochimaru's mouth lifted slightly, revealing a self-mocking yet bitter smile.
"Father..." Kakashi softly murmured the word, a trace of longing and pain showing in his eyes.
That tall and imposing figure from the past seemed to appear before him once more, but now they were separated by life and death.
"Teacher..." Next, he thought of the Fourth Hokage, who had profoundly influenced him.
His teacher's guidance, care, and never-give-up spirit had always encouraged him to keep moving forward through his dazed and confused life.
"Obito... Rin..."
Those two names made Kakashi's heart ache sharply.
They had once been his closest companions, experiencing countless battles and moments of laughter together. Yet fate had cruelly torn them apart.
"We... can meet again soon..."
Kakashi murmured to himself, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly, as if carrying a trace of anticipation.
But that smile looked incomparably desolate, inspiring pity in anyone who saw it.
"I'm actually... looking forward to it..."
He took a deep breath and slowly closed his eyes. Memories of the moments he had spent with his friends continuously flashed through his mind.
Those beautiful memories unfolded slowly in