Several figures were faintly visible aboard a small boat on a mist-shrouded lake.
The boy named Yukimaru had fallen into a state of exhaustion after unleashing a powerful burst of Chakra.
However, among them, the long-haired man with a gloomy expression saw that Isobu had not gone berserk as expected and turned to Kabuto Yakushi beside him. "Kabuto, increase his dosage."
"But Lord Orochimaru, Yukimaru is already near his limit. Forget increasing the dosage—even using the medicine one more time could put his life in danger."
Supporting Yukimaru's body, Guren looked at his weakened state, unable to hide the reluctance on her face.
"It doesn't matter. His only value is his ability to influence and control the Three-Tails.
If he cannot even provide that much value, then he is completely useless."
Like Kimimaro and the others before her, Guren had met Orochimaru at her lowest point. She admired him greatly and hoped to earn his recognition.
When Kabuto Yakushi had first left Yukimaru in Guren's care, she had merely regarded him as a tool.
However, over time, Guren had gradually been influenced by Yukimaru's optimism and admiration, and her mindset had begun to change.
Hearing Orochimaru's cold words now, Guren wanted to argue, but ultimately could not bring herself to speak.
"One of the legendary Konoha Sannin, Cold Lord Orochimaru. You're as ruthless as ever.
Come to think of it, we're quite fated, aren't we? Including this time, we've crossed paths quite a few times."
Just as Kabuto Yakushi was about to force Yukimaru to take the Chakra-stimulating medicine, a bone spike shot out of the mist and flew straight toward Orochimaru's head.
Unfortunately, Orochimaru did not fall for the sudden ambush. The instant he sensed danger, he used his Soft Physique Modification to stretch his neck and evade the