Proud Genius?

Orochimaru glanced around. All this mist was emanating from the roses.

Could gas transformed from the liquid squeezed out of poisonous roses really be nothing more than beautiful-looking mist?

Even without experiencing it firsthand, Orochimaru knew how terrifying this stuff was.

"What terrifying talent, to think you came up with such an attack..." Orochimaru was no longer merely impressed by Yinsen. He even felt that such an outstanding genius should not continue wasting his life in Konoha. "I truly admire you. Would you like to leave Konoha with me?"

Before Yinsen could react, the Third Hokage's entire body trembled. His muscles instantly tensed, and he nearly lost control and blasted Orochimaru with a Great Fireball.

At the same time, he watched Yinsen's reaction from the corner of his eye. Orochimaru kept raising the stakes, looking as though he truly admired Yinsen rather than casually saying such things to disrupt his opponent's state of mind.

"Sorry, but I can't think of any reason to go with you. I'm very happy living in Konoha."

"Hehehehe, young man, there are many things you do not know. I'm sure you'll change your mind when the time comes... My invitation will remain open. If you change your mind, you can come find me anytime."

Yinsen lowered his hands from the hand seals, looking as though Orochimaru's words had moved him.

In truth, Yinsen had already completed the technique. He had no need to keep his hands raised, and even the Rose Whip in his hand had vanished at some point. Both hands slipped back into his pockets as he stood there, watching Orochimaru in the distance.

"Wood Release—Crimson Thorns!"

The red mist filling the sky did not cover the entire area. Instead, it surrounded Orochimaru from every direction. As Yinsen withdrew his hands from the