Hokage? Director of a Mental Hospital!

Konoha Scientific Research Department.

Hiruko, Orochimaru, and Tsunade followed behind Hiruzen Sarutobi, undergoing the Hokage's inspection...

Hizashi Hyuga was also by his side, his expression grave, seemingly lost in thought.

Ordinary researchers might find inspections by superiors annoying...

Orochimaru and Hiruko both eager for Hiruzen Sarutobi to come and see them.

Although Orochimaru and Hiruzen Sarutobi trusted each other to an extremely high degree.

However, being able to communicate frequently and strengthen relationships is always better than never seeing each other.

Moreover, Orochimaru sometimes genuinely Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Even though Hiruzen Sarutobi wasn't particularly professional in the field of scientific research, his thinking was meticulous and imaginative...

Who wouldn't want to communicate more with a "close friend"?

In the entire Konoha, Orochimaru believed that the only person who truly understood him was Hiruzen Sarutobi!

Hiruko, on the other hand, felt uneasy sometimes because he was trusted to such a high degree.

Although Hiruko considered himself loyal to the Hokage, his research methods were far too reckless...

And so, the prototype of the Chimera Technique was developed...

The problem is that the Chimera Technique affects the Kekkei Genkai at this point.

Combining this with the Lord Hokage, who has just acquired Ice Release and Boil Release, is rather intriguing...

In reality, most people wouldn't care; it's just unfounded association.

But Hiruko was different.

He still feels like he's in a dream about being chosen by the Hokage and rising from an ordinary Jonin to Konoha Committee Member and a highly sought-after member of the Scientific Research Department.

He was so terrified of losing everything he had that he felt like he Hiruko on thin ice every day, afraid that the slightest problem would shatter his beautiful dream.

In a sense, this could be considered a severe form of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

It can only be said that in the Shinobi World Stage, every ninja has some kind of mental issue to varying degrees...

This is especially true for geniuses.

"Which of you two will explain it to me..."

"What exactly is this so-called Chimera Technique that can fuse with Kekkei Genkai?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi chuckled and said, "Pretty capable, huh..."

Orochimaru glanced at Hiruko and raised his chin.

This means that Hiruko to explain to Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Orochimaru provided considerable assistance in the creation of the Chimera Technique, but the main ideas originated from Hiruko...

As a scientific researcher, Orochimaru, unlike Senju Tobirama who championed copyright protection, supported open source...

But it's not enough to overshadow the contributions of his childhood friend.

But Hiruko instinctively took a step back, his eyes filled with worry.

The Lord Hokage's tone sounds kind, but it couldn't be...

"Is it? No, no... is it or isn't it, is it or isn't it?"

When Hiruzen Sarutobi, Hiruko explanations and words went blank, as if she had crashed for a moment.

Obsessive-compulsive thoughts and anxiety burst forth, plunging the entire brain into a frenzy of internal conflict.

Hiruzen Sarutobi took in Hiruko's reaction and sighed inwardly.

He sometimes felt that he, as the Hokage, was less the leader of a violent military group.

It's more like she's a "high-end psychotherapist"...

Besides approving some documents and focusing on my own spiritual practice...

The most important task is to chat with the ninjas often, pay attention to their mental health, and prevent them from going astray and doing something terrible...

The Director of a mental hospital is one of them.

"Hiruko, what are you thinking about?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi stepped forward, patted him on the shoulder, and joked, "What? Afraid that I, a layman, won't understand? Thinking of a way to explain it in simple terms?"

Hiruko visibly trembled, then gave an awkward laugh, "Look at what you're saying, Lord Hokage... You're known as the Professor of Ninjutsu!" "What I know are nothing more than some common Five Elements Release, nothing to brag about."

Hiruzen Sarutobi waved his hand, staring intently into Hiruko's eyes:

"What Konoha needs are ninjas like you and Orochimaru who can constantly innovate and bring a continuous source of vitality to the village with Ninjutsu..." Hearing these words and seeing Hiruzen Sarutobi's calm eyes.

Hiruko's mind suddenly calmed down, and the ripples in his heart slowly subsided.

The Lord Hokage has now defined the Chimera Technique!

It's good!

Hiruko a deep breath and carefully chose her words, saying, "Lord Hokage, the current Chimera Technique can only be considered a prototype." "The specific idea is to activate the cells of Kekkei Genkai ninja through a formation, integrating them into the recipient's body to grant them the corresponding abilities."

"It's difficult to achieve organic Kekkei Genkai, but Chakra- based ones are no problem. We not only used Lord Hashirama's cells, but also applied for some precious materials from the Second's Material library that you opened up."

Hiruzen Sarutobi an eyebrow.

In fact, Hiruzen Sarutobi didn't know exactly what was in that Material library.

There are too many and it's too complicated!

He had the Administrative Department make a record and compile a list, which he glanced at briefly.

It can only be said that Senju Tobirama's research back then wasn't limited to the Uchiha Clan; it likely involved other ninjas as well, including some with Kekkei Genkai... No wonder the Second Hokage's reputation in the Shinobi World isn't exactly positive...

"Experiments with rabbits have confirmed that this method is feasible."

"This proves that there is a universally applicable method for Kekkei Genkai transplantation. If we further refine this method and find ways to weaken the activity of First Hokage Cells, we will be able to develop First Hokage Vaccine suitable for the general public."

"But the First Hokage's Wood Release is closely related to his life force. In our assessment, the revived First Hokage Vaccine Orochimaru, if transplanted using the Chimera Technique..."

"Even if it cannot activate Wood Release, it can still significantly increase the recipient's Chakra, physical abilities, and strength, granting them a physique similar to that of the Senju Clan."

Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded slightly in agreement.

This research was conducted strictly according to his line of thinking.

It doesn't necessarily have to be Wood Release; the primary considerations are safety and versatility...

After all, being able to activate even a portion of the Senju physique is already a huge gain...

Although the Shinobi World always emphasizes high-end combat power.

However, it was the mid-level ninjas who supported the war and filled the battle lines; they also played an indispensable role.

If mid-level ninjas could receive a buff similar to "Little Senju"...

In a comparison of combat strength at the same level, Konoha Ninja could be called "Konoha Superman".

Furthermore, the collective strengthening of mid-level ninjas will also translate into the potential for the Hokage's Ninja Way.

This Hiruzen Sarutobi's potential once again, becoming an invisible boost to his ascent to the top, and in itself strengthens him as Konoha's top combat force.

This is why Hiruzen Sarutobi did not pursue the ultimate utilization of Hashirama Cells.

"So, where is the problem?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at Hiruko and said softly, "There's no need to only report good news. A new scientific research project and the research of Ninjutsu are bound to encounter many setbacks and detours."

"If I, as the Hokage, demand that your research proceed smoothly, that would be going too far."

"I see the pressure in your heart, Hiruko."

Hiruzen Sarutobi on with a sigh:

"This pressure comes from your sense of responsibility, which is good..."

"But you also need to understand that although the village allocates a large portion of its fiscal revenue to scientific research, it doesn't mean you have to produce results in the short term."

"If you have a problem, raise it. Let's brainstorm together to find a solution. Always carrying the burden of pressure on your own will only break you down..."

Hiruzen Sarutobi squeezed Hiruko's arm and shook his head:

"You've gotten so thin..."

"Remember, not only Tsunade, Orochimaru, Jiraiya, but also the other ninjas in the village are your comrades. I, the Hokage, am also your comrade and your protector."

"Do you understand?"

Tsunade was astonished, shaking her head inwardly as she Hiruko with amusement.

"The teacher's execution is too strong; it's only been a few days since we told him that Hiruko had mental issues..."

"Well, at this rate, it looks like we're going to end up Hizashi Hyuga..." Tsunade as she looked at Hiruko's trembling hands.

"Are you my protector?"

"Of course, I, the Hokage, am not your backer. So who is?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi flicked Hiruko's forehead: "You should know that I am the principal of the Ninja Academy, so theoretically you are also my disciple." "If a disciple encounters difficulties while working for the village, and the teacher doesn't try to solve them, are you going to blame him?"

Hiruko laughed from the bottom of his heart.

He had always regretted not being Hokage Faction...

Hiruko greatly envied Orochimaru's mindset.

I never worry about causing controversy; I write a report for every experiment before starting, and then I just get right to it...

Even when Danzo looking for trouble, Orochimaru didn't back down and retorted, warning him that if he disrupted the research progress, he would have Hiruzen Sarutobi the score...

In Hiruko's view, the greatest source of this unyielding spirit was that he was Hiruzen Sarutobi's apprentice...

Hokage's disciple!

Hiruzen Sarutobi's interpretation has offered some solace to Hiruko.

Hiruko bowed slightly to Hiruzen Sarutobi, then said in a deep voice:

"The Fusion Array of the Chimera Technique is too violent. If such a method is applied to a ninja, even if the Kekkei Genkai fusion is successful, the person may not survive."

"However, to control the intensity of the formation, we lack further experimental data to test the dynamic data between the human body, the Chimera Array, and the alien cells."

"We need ninjas with unwavering will and abundant Chakra to cooperate in order to mitigate the severe flaws of the Chimera Technique's formation..."

Hiruko, he handed a page of a document from his pocket to Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Hiruzen Sarutobi frowned.

This is indeed a troublesome matter...

Ordinary ninjas lack sufficient mental strength and Chakra to resist the corrosive power of the original version of Chimera.

Furthermore, the patient's active cooperation is required.

Even Orochimaru found this tricky.

Even in his past, he struggled to solve this problem because forcibly captured ninjas would inevitably resist being experimented on. Without actively embracing the idea of fusion, the experiments would be extremely ineffective, and no useful data could be obtained.

In other words, this requires the cooperation of one's own people, and also requires a powerful ninja.

But this is fraught with danger; if something goes wrong, it will be difficult to explain...

In Konoha today, No-Man dares to turn against their own people.

This experiment requires volunteers to be at least Jonin level.

Every Jonin is Konoha; losing even one would be a major incident!

Hiruzen Sarutobi and fell into deep thought.

This is indeed a difficult problem, and it's no wonder that Hiruko hesitated so much...

"How many ninjas do you need to cooperate?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly spoke, "After obtaining the data, are you confident in improving Chimera's formation?"

"One will suffice," Hiruko said unexpectedly.

"One?" Hiruzen Sarutobi frowned. "Why?"

Normally, improving a technology should involve collecting data from multiple sources.

"Thanks to the village's financial assistance, we purchased a large amount of advanced equipment and expensive raw materials such as Chakra Metal, and independently developed Chakra and cell data monitoring facilities."

Hiruko explained cautiously:

"For the initial improvements to Chimera, we only lack data on one or two key indicators; the rest can be compensated for using First Hokage Cells or Material from the Second ' database."

"With just the data from one successful case, Orochimaru and I are confident that we can perfect the Chimera Technique within two years and lower the barrier to entry for those who wish to use it."

"In that case, our research on the First Hokage Vaccine will be further accelerated, leaving only the issue of weakening cell vitality. As long as the village's ninjas have suitable Material, they can also obtain Kekkei Genkai."

"However, I must tell you that even if the Chimera Technique is perfected, not everyone can integrate it."

Hiruko explained.

In order to achieve a successful fusion, Hashirama Cells can weaken their vitality while still maintaining activity. Even without the characteristics of Wood Release, they still retain the physical characteristics of the Senju Clan.

But the cells of other Kekkei Genkai ninjas wouldn't work.

It is not resilient to begin with, and will become inactive if its vitality is weakened.

Therefore, no matter how perfect the Chimera Technique is, for a ninja to transplant Kekkei Genkai, besides prerequisites such as compatibility, their own Chakra and willpower must also be up to par...

Hiruzen Sarutobi.

He didn't care about that; it's reasonable that there are certain thresholds to obtaining power.

In a sense, this can be seen as a match between mindset and strength.

Hiruzen Sarutobi pondered for a moment, preparing to speak.

He actually had a suitable candidate in mind: Kakuzu.

With five hearts and the ability to Earth Grudge Fear Clone Kakuzu, Chakra reserves are certainly sufficient, and even if the experiment goes wrong, it's a price he can bear.

Needless to say, he's a ruthless individual who was able to kill all the defectors after being betrayed by his superiors.

It's worth mentioning that Kakuzu encountered Konoha's Anbu a few days ago and specifically greeted them, saying he was still gathering intelligence and supplies, and would deliver them to Konoha once the value reached the amount of the advance payment...

He did not abscond with the money; he is an honest person.

The Hidden Konoha's Anbu were startled, thinking that this immortal bounty hunter was about to attack them...

This gave Hiruzen Sarutobi the confidence to continue trading with Kakuzu, and a basic level of trust had been established.

This price might be surprisingly high...

Hiruzen Sarutobi didn't care about money; it wasn't a question of which Jonin or Kakuzu offered the higher price...

Rather, it is the embodiment of the Will of Fire.

Human life, especially the life of one's own people, should not be measured in terms of money unless in extreme circumstances.

This is very hurtful.

Unexpectedly, Hizashi, who had been silent all along, suddenly knelt down in front of Hiruzen Sarutobi.

"Lord Hokage, please let me try!"

"Hizashi am willing to dedicate myself to the development of the village!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi taken aback, then quickly bent down and helped Hizashi up.

Hizashi stubbornly tried to continue kneeling, but the Lord Hokage's grip was simply too strong; after a brief struggle, he was almost pulled into the air...

"Hizashi, stop thinking about kneeling. You are a ' Konoha Committee Member '."

"Not only you, but all the other ninjas of Konoha must learn to speak with dignity, even if I am the Hokage..." Hiruzen Sarutobi said sternly. In the Lord Hokage's view, strictly enforcing the village's orders was sufficient.

Kneeling proves nothing; if you violate the rules, even kowtowing won't help...

Hizashi's feelings were very complicated.

It was warm, but also evoked a strong sense of resentment.

"Lord Hokage, this wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision; I've wanted to do this for a long time!"

Hizashi made a startling statement:

"My skills are terrible; I just have a pair of long-lasting Byakugan and know a few Gentle Fist..."

"My intelligence capabilities are inferior to Danzo's, and I know nothing about scientific research. If it weren't for the Lord Hokage's good fortune in catching my eye, how could someone like me have risen to such a high position?"

"I am not worthy to be a member of the Konoha Committee Member."

"Even if I die, Lord Hokage, you can just find another member of the Branch Family family to replace me. Iroha and Kamon are both trustworthy..." Hiruzen Sarutobi took a deep breath and couldn't help but cover his face.

Even someone as shrewd as him is finding it hard to keep up.

No way...

Another one has had a relapse.

He's already taken on a big client for his specialist appointment today; another one and he'll be completely exhausted...

The Hokage is working overtime...

Oh, it has the potential to be used as overtime pay. That's fine then.

"Lord Hokage, what's wrong?" Hizashi was startled to see Hiruzen Sarutobi covering his face.

"It's nothing, just a little sentimental." Hiruzen Sarutobi adjusted his expression, slowly removed his hand, and said earnestly to Hizashi, "Hizashi, it's good that you have the spirit to dedicate yourself to the village, but don't push yourself too hard."

"Everyone is born with different talents, and they can do different things for the village. That's why we all need to come together as a group, so that we can learn from each other's strengths and make up for each other's weaknesses."

"You and Hiruko have a similar problem: you always want to shoulder too much on your own!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi glanced at Hiruko's expression and chuckled inwardly.

He saw the look of Hiruko on Hiruko's face; he was practically shouting, "Hizashi, you're my confidant!"

"So you also feel you haven't done enough? That you don't deserve this position?"

"Truly a pair of brilliant minds..." Hiruzen Sarutobi shook his head helplessly.

The patients met.

"Hizashi, I have someone in mind, it's the bounty hunter Kakuzu..."

Hiruzen Sarutobi explained Kakuzu's advantages; the only problem was that it would cost some money, but that wasn't a big deal.

Upon Hizashi was about to kneel down again.

One hundred million?

One hundred million is enough to provide pensions for one hundred war orphans!

Hiruzen Sarutobi's large hand gripped Hizashi's shoulder like an iron clamp. "Don't kneel, speak standing up!"

"Lord Hokage..."

Hizashi stared at Hiruzen Sarutobi with an extremely complicated expression.

In the past, when the Main Branch beat and scolded Branch Family who had branched out, forcing them to kneel was considered mild. Branch Family punished with Caged Bird suffered terribly, some even writhing on the ground in pain and contemplating suicide...

His Byakugan seemed to flash before his eyes.

It all started when my father made me watch the Lord Hokage fight Orochimaru...

He joined the Anbu, became Squad Captain, and made new friends outside his own clan.

The Main Branch treated him with utmost respect, and even Tenzo had to consult him on everything.

Then, during the grand assembly, Hizashi "questioned" the excessive favoritism shown towards ninjas. Hiruzen Sarutobi, worried that this would lead to misunderstandings or resentment from other ninjas, personally intervened to vouch for him...

Each and every one of these events was so clear in Hizashi's mind.

It all feels like it happened yesterday.

Hizashi felt the power of Hiruzen Sarutobi on his shoulder and sighed deeply.

This is why he was so eager to gain power...

Hokage is already very strong, but he keeps improving...

"Lord Hokage, without power, my desire to offer my loyalty to you will forever remain a distant dream."

"Under your rule, even ninjas without talent can live well. I have no intention of belittling them, but having received your kindness, I cannot accept such a life."

"If I succeed and gain new power, I can continue to serve you..."

"If I die, Orochimaru and Committee Member Hiruko will still obtain some valuable experimental data. In the end, I will have contributed to the development of the village!"

Hizashi slowly reached his hand to his forehead and untied his headband.

Its smooth forehead was revealed, along with the emerald green Caged Bird Seal.

"Lord Hokage..."

"This is my own choice, and I am willing to do it for you and for the village."

"The past two years with you have been incredibly fulfilling..."

"This Cursed Seal once made me feel that there was no hope for the future, but now, although it is still engraved on my forehead, I don't care about its existence at all."

Hizashi Hyuga's tone was sincere and relieved, not at all like someone who had decided to conduct a dangerous experiment.

"I am the first person in the thousands of years since the Hyuga Branch Family was founded to experience freedom. I am already very satisfied that the caged bird was able to spread its wings and soar for a while... So, please let me do something more for you and for the village!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi exhaled a long breath.

This is something he really can't cure.

Because the Hizashi Hyuga is actually quite accurate.

Hiruzen Sarutobi's strength is indeed increasing steadily and powerfully.

Given the starting point and talent of the Hizashi Hyuga Clan Branch Family, without external interference, they would indeed have stopped there.

I won't be able to do much for Hiruzen Sarutobi anymore.

To compete for the title of the sharpest blade in the Hokage's hands, one's personal fighting strength must at least be at Danzo's level...

Hiruzen Sarutobi remained silent for a long time.

After a long pause, he slowly spoke:

"Hizashi, you're not married yet, are you?"

Hizashi nodded blankly. "Yes, Lord Hokage."

"Although I hope the village has a large population, I don't like to pressure people into marriage, but you're an exception."

"Go and get married, at least leave behind a bloodline of yours, then go and do the experiments..."

Hiruzen Sarutobi took out a cigarette, but after glancing at the Laboratory environment, he clutched the pack back in his hand.

"If you die, I will take your child as my apprentice and take good care of him."

"Hokage, I will make an exception and intervene in the internal affairs of the Ninja Clan this once, so that no child will be branded with the Caged Bird Seal."

Hizashi stared Hizashi at Hiruzen Sarutobi.

A faint sheen of water appeared on her white eyes.

Orochimaru watched this scene in silence, his heart filled with mixed emotions. "Sensei, he really doesn't seem like a ninja..."

How could anyone not be willing to risk their life for Hokage like that?

We must learn! We must learn!

Orochimaru had heard that Danzo seemed to write down his teacher's words and study them repeatedly.

He had previously scoffed at it, considering it mere formalism...

But in retrospect, it does have some merit.

He'll need all of this when he becomes Hokage...

"Lord Hokage..." Hizashi tried to say something, but his voice choked with emotion.

"Go, Hizashi, be alone for a while and think things through."

"I still hope you won't take the risk..."

Hiruzen Sarutobi patted Hizashi Hyuga on the shoulder and sighed deeply.

Hizashi Hyuga nodded silently, gestured to Hiruzen Sarutobi, and then quickly walked out of the Laboratory.

He's getting married now!

No, we need to ask Deputy Chief Sakumo for a day off first, and then we'll get married tonight!

As for who the other party is...

The Hizashi doesn't matter.

Anyway, the Hyuga Clan arranges marriages, so he can just tell his Clan Head father.

"Hiruko, I entrust my son Asuma to you from now on," Hiruzen Sarutobi suddenly said.

Hiruko aback, then exclaimed with wild joy, "You... you're telling the truth?"

"He is of a fairly upright and simple character, but his talent is mediocre."

Hiruzen Sarutobi and Hiruko smiled and nodded in acknowledgment, "Thank you for your trouble Hiruko- sensei."

Hiruko waved his hands, shaking them like an electric fan.

He was just now thinking enviously...

The bond between the Lord Hokage and Hizashi is truly beyond words.

Even if Hizashi really died, his actions would surely be remembered in Konoha's history and become a celebrated tale!

When he turned around, the Lord Hokage noticed him!

Orochimaru coughed lightly. "Master, I also have something to attend to, but it's a personal matter."

Orochimaru wanted to talk to Hiruzen Sarutobi about Kekkei Genkai...

He also wanted to try developing it.

But this time, Hiruzen Sarutobi turned around and viciously ruffled Orochimaru's hair.

Orochimaru was somewhat taken aback.

This was a gesture that Hiruzen Sarutobi often made to Jiraiya when they were children, but he rarely did it to Jiraiya.

"You brat, I heard from Tsunade that you often call me 'Old Man' in private?"

"Then you should remember to take care of the elderly!"

"You've already exceeded your workload for today. Let's talk again another day, either at the office or at my place for dinner!"

If it's official business, Hiruzen Sarutobi really has to be patient and listen.

As for personal matters, I've already hosted two lunatics from the Shinobi World today; one more would be a bit overwhelming...

Even the Hokage isn't made of iron; he needs a break!

"You... you don't seem to have much to do with the elderly..."

Orochimaru's lips twitched, and he unusually retorted, "I'm starting to suspect that if I took a full-force punch from you, I might lose half my life..." "It's not that light," Tsunade laughed heartily.

"Who knows, maybe one day the teacher will learn the Super Strength of the Senju Clan? He could kill you with a single punch."

Orochimaru glanced at Tsunade speechlessly, then shook his head and laughed.

Just like when I was a child...

Tsunade then, Tsunade acted like a spoiled young lady. She was forthright and generous, but she was also very sharp-tongued and willful.

But Hiruzen Sarutobi suddenly treated this genius like Dead Last, Jiraiya was considered a complete failure.

This gave Orochimaru a strange sense of familiarity.

Orochimaru had a strange feeling since he was a child.

Although the teacher valued him more, when it came to genuine feelings, he actually had more in common with Jiraiya...

After Hiruzen Sarutobi left.

Hiruko still somewhat out of service.

"Tell me, why did the Lord Hokage choose me to be Asuma's teacher?" Hiruko as if in a dream.

"The thing you've been longing for has come true, and you can't believe it?"

Tsunade chuckled and raised her fist, "How about I help you sober up?"

"That won't be necessary..."

Hiruko quickly raised his hands in surrender. "I'm a researcher, I won't use force!"

Orochimaru smiled slightly.

Perhaps even Hiruko himself didn't notice.

In the past, he was somewhat hesitant and timid when facing Tsunade and Orochimaru, even though they were both "Konoha Committee Member".

After he became Asuma's teacher, things became much more natural.

Because he is also considered a member of the Hokage Faction and the master-disciple system!

"Fine, Hiruko's an idiot. I'll just have to explain for the Old Man... Consider it helping my teacher with overtime, there's really no other way..." "What can I do? I'm his best disciple..."

Orochimaru coughed lightly and said slowly:

"Because the teacher doesn't want you to have any wild thoughts, and wants you to focus on doing the experiment."

"You are Asuma's teacher, so naturally you are someone close to your teacher. Even someone as intelligent as Danzo could understand this..." "Therefore, don't be overly anxious. You are already a staunch Hokage Faction the Hokage's faction. As long as you don't violate the village's rules and the Will of Fire, no one can do anything to you."

"Go forth and unleash your talents, Hiruko!"

"However, you're also the first person to enter the Hokage Faction. This kind of thing doesn't usually happen, which shows that the teacher values you exceptionally highly..."

Orochimaru mimicked Hiruzen Sarutobi's gesture and patted Hiruko the shoulder.

Hiruko was stunned, and after a long while, he murmured:

"So that's how it is..."

"Let's go, prepare for the surgery for Hizashi..." Orochimaru said with a sigh.

"The teacher definitely doesn't want anything to happen to Hizashi. Even if something did happen to him, he wouldn't blame us. But the thought of the Old Man's disappointed expression still leaves a bad taste in my mouth."

"You're right, Orochimaru!"

Hiruko suddenly turned around. "Time to get to work!"

Thinking of Hizashi's determination.

Hiruko down, otherwise wouldn't that prove he was less loyal than Hizashi?

Moreover...

Hiruko felt a great fondness for Hizashi, whom he considered a "kindred spirit".

A new kind of Konoha between these two was silently forged...

#

P. S.: There will be another chapter at 8 AM this morning. I'm posting it early since it's the beginning of the month!

Updates are usually posted at 8 PM.

It's hard to say how many chapters Xiaofan I'll write, but as long as the word count isn't reduced, it will easily exceed 10,000 words a day!

I'm asking for monthly votes at the beginning of the month! or 2!