Izumi vs. Orochimaru

"Could you let me join the discussion too?" Orochimaru appeared behind Kabuto Yakushi in a Body Flicker Technique, and a bowl-thick python wrapped around Kabuto Yakushi.

Kabuto Yakushi violently broke free of the python's restraints and used a Body Flicker Technique to arrive beside Yamato. With a grave expression, he said, "If Lord Sasori hadn't revealed his kunai, I nearly wouldn't have noticed in time to dodge."

Yamato could not help letting out a sigh of relief. He had not drawn his kunai as a warning—he had intended to capture Kabuto Yakushi alive. But as he looked at Orochimaru across from him, his head began to ache again. With someone this dangerous standing before them, what were they supposed to do next? He had absolutely no idea!

"That outfit truly brings back memories, Sasori." Orochimaru looked at Yamato and spoke calmly, as though he were exchanging everyday greetings with an old friend.

"Were you following Kabuto?" Yamato asked, imitating Sasori's voice.

"It was nothing. I merely came to offer my thanks. The child you sent me has proven very useful." Orochimaru wore a wicked smile. "Every technique I develop requires at least a hundred human bodies for testing. Thanks to his Medical Ninjutsu, even used test subjects can be recycled repeatedly. Ever since the Land of Fire began its population census, my supply of test subjects has become more and more inadequate!"

Yamato was caught in a difficult position. He even considered whether to join forces with Kabuto Yakushi against Orochimaru, or call the three youngsters behind him over so they could face Orochimaru together. But no matter how he thought about it, they did not seem capable of handling him.

Just as Yamato's thoughts raced, Kabuto Yakushi suddenly turned around. With the speed of lightning, his scalpel slashed through