Putting aside Hiruzen Sarutobi, who was heading toward the Ino-Shika-Cho clan grounds, Shimura Danzō returned to the Root Base to meet someone he had previously invited.
It was Orochimaru, the disciple of his old comrade. The loss of his right arm had severely reduced his combat power, and he needed to transplant a suitable arm.
His Root subordinates were somewhat lacking in this regard, so he ultimately had to seek out his old comrade's disciple.
What truly perfect power!
Gazing at the small chunk of flesh suspended in the nutrient solution, Orochimaru was utterly fascinated and burning with desire.
That was a piece of the First Hokage's flesh, secretly excised by the Second Hokage for research.
Even as mere flesh, it still allowed him to sense an overwhelming life force; he could hardly imagine how terrifying the First Hokage's strength must have been in life.
"The First Hokage's cells possess extremely strong corrosive properties, and Teacher Tobirama performed countless experiments that ultimately ended in failure."
Shimura Danzō offered this explanation. He, too, harbored a strong desire for the First Teacher's power, but even more than that, he felt wariness.
After taking over Teacher Tobirama's laboratory, he had secretly conducted a few experiments, but unfortunately, the results had been gruesome, leaving him deeply shaken.
"So you didn't ask me here to help you acquire the First Hokage's power?"
Catching the hint of apprehension in Shimura Danzō's tone, Orochimaru formed a few guesses.
"I need an arm that can restore my strength, preferably one that can enhance it further. The reward is letting you participate in the research project on the First Hokage's cells, giving you access to the strongest power in the ninja world."
Shimura Danzō said in a deep voice. With the Great Ninja War currently underway, the Third Kazekage