Orochimaru's research institute had already been completed. It was far larger than before and looked more formal and professional.
But it was still a top-secret location. Without Orochimaru's permission, no one could enter. Aside from Anko, Shin was the only one specially authorized to come and go freely.
Orochimaru brought out a cage for Shin. Inside was a white mouse.
"This is the latest progress—a test subject that survived," Orochimaru said.
"You transplanted Hashirama Cells into it?" Shin asked in surprise.
"Not only that."
Orochimaru said, "Hashirama Cells are far too active. They can divide and proliferate endlessly, granting astonishing regenerative abilities, but only if they can be suppressed. Rashly transplanting them into another living organism will only destroy its original cellular structure."
As Shin listened to Orochimaru's explanation, he felt that this sounded somewhat like cancer cells.
Shin asked, "How do you suppress them?"
Orochimaru took out a vial and handed it over. "These are White Zetsu cells. They are somewhat similar to Hashirama Cells and can completely accommodate them."
He continued, "I have many hypotheses that need to be confirmed, so I intend to begin experimenting with Hashirama Cells on human bodies."
Shin's heart stirred slightly. "Adults?"
But Orochimaru rejected the idea. "Adult bodies have already stopped developing, so there isn't much value in observing them. They can be used in later-stage experiments."
Shin fell silent, and Orochimaru said nothing more, merely watching him.
The laboratory remained quiet for a long time before Shin slowly spoke. "Lord Hokage, do you understand your own position?"
Orochimaru narrowed his eyes and asked in return, "Shin, do you know why I took this position?"
"..."
"The village orphanage took in quite a few children again this year, didn't it? If a few went missing, it would be easy enough to cover