Life and Death Trial

"Let's go, Sasuke."

"Mm."

When Sasuke emerged from the room in his new clothes, the most striking feature was the six-pointed star pattern in his eyes!

Although the awakening method Orochimaru had developed was rather brutal and could easily turn someone into an idiot, anyone with a strong enough will and sufficient talent could successfully complete the awakening.

But the side effects seemed rather obvious...

No one knew what kind of pain and stimulation Sasuke had endured to change so completely in such a short time. His eyes were filled with indifference, and his face practically screamed, "Stay away from me."

As expected, forcing a seedling to grow came with certain risks.

Still, it was not a major problem. Once the time came and Sasuke was sent back, with Itachi and Naruto's warmth, would this little patch of ice really fail to melt?

"Are you really not considering staying?"

Outside, Orochimaru narrowed his eyes and looked at Sasuke like a venomous snake.

Sasuke, meanwhile, turned his murderous gaze toward Orochimaru.

"What a terrifying look. I've already been gentle enough..."

"Orochimaru, know when to stop. Otherwise, you can choose one of those vessels you prepared right now."

Seeing Yasuo's calm gaze, Orochimaru knew he was not joking—and that he truly had the ability to make good on his words.

A flash of wariness crossed his eyes. "Heh heh, why get so angry? I won't see you out."

After leaving Orochimaru's base, Sasuke carefully memorized its location.

Then Aoba led Sasuke deep into the mountains.

Simply awakening the Mangekyō Sharingan was not enough. He also planned to further unlock Sasuke's potential through actual combat. At the very least, Sasuke had to be able to bring out the power of the Mangekyō Sharingan.

Time flew, and ten days soon passed.

Throughout those