Meanwhile, in a secret location within Konoha.
"The matter has been taken care of, Lord Orochimaru."
In the pitch-black room, Kabuto Yakushi bowed slightly as he reported to the figure ahead of him, whose back, even amid the darkness, seemed especially profound.
"Mm... I understand."
The one who answered him was Orochimaru, his voice sinister and hoarse.
"However, although his wounds have been treated and the modified parts have been prevented from deteriorating further, Zaku will likely be unable to serve as combat strength from now on."
Kabuto straightened as he spoke.
"Mm."
Hearing this, Orochimaru nodded and gave a brief response. Yet there seemed to be a hint of perfunctoriness in his words.
"Lord Orochimaru, forgive my rudeness, but Zaku is a failed product and no longer has—"
Kabuto frowned slightly, hesitated, then began to speak.
"Keeping him alive still has its uses."
But before he could finish, Orochimaru cut him off midway.
"Yes!"
Kabuto's breath caught slightly at Orochimaru's words, and he immediately lowered his head in acknowledgment.
Could it be...
Could it really be as that brat said?
However, Orochimaru, his face dark as he stood with his back to Kabuto, paid no heed to the respectful reply behind him. He merely stared in silence at the scroll in his hand, already crumpled from his grip.
A thought flashed through his mind.
But given the current situation...
Could it be that I truly have only one path left? No! No matter how capable he is, it's impossible...
At the same time, a powerful thought of denial rose from the depths of Orochimaru's heart.
"Konoha has actually postponed the third preliminary round by a month. Though such adjustments are common during the Chunin Exams, a whole month is rather too long. Orochimaru, could there be something..."
Seeing that