Stepping Down

"Domain Expansion—Infinite Void!" With Naruto's low, resolute chant, the entire battlefield seemed to be enveloped by an invisible force.

A massive black sphere abruptly manifested, engulfing the Eight-Branched Serpent that Orochimaru had transformed into, along with the First and Second Hokage, whom he controlled through Impure World Reincarnation.

Externally, this domain appeared as an pitch-black orb, as if devouring all surrounding light and color.

Within, an instant of endless white light and nothingness intertwined, followed by the entire space turning into utter darkness.

In the depths of that darkness, an enormous eye, resembling a black hole, silently emerged, exuding a terrifying aura that chilled the heart.

Inside this domain, everyone lost their original state.

Except for Naruto himself, who stood solidly within the space, Orochimaru and the First and Second Hokage under his control were suspended in midair, held aloft by an invisible force, unable to move.

Infinite Void, this mysterious and powerful domain, displayed its terrifying might within the bounds of Infinity.

Here, "perception" and "transmission" were forcibly executed countless times for the act of "living," forming a mental assault manifested as an endless influx of information into the brain.

Orochimaru felt as if he were drowning in an ocean of information, able to see everything yet powerless to act. Countless bits of data surged like a tidal wave, shattering his soul and thoughts into fragments.

He tried to struggle, to resist, but within this boundless void and white light, he found himself utterly incapable of doing anything.

Having already known everything, having been granted everything, he could only watch helplessly as it all slowly slipped away.

The First and Second Hokage, having lost Orochimaru's commands, floated dazedly in place.

"Genjutsu?" Orochimaru forced out these two words, his mind involuntarily conjuring the name that terrified him most—Itachi Uchiha.

In an instant, all will to fight dissipated, replaced by a deep-seated fear and powerlessness.

Naruto, astonished, realized that within the Infinite Void domain, Orochimaru could still emit a faint yet clear voice. This sudden turn of events gave him a deeper appreciation for the complexity and depth of the ninja world.

"If there's no domain to counter it, does that mean mine is invincible?" This thought was dismissed by Naruto himself.

Orochimaru's ability to speak within his domain was a warning in itself.

Naruto began to ponder: if Orochimaru's mental strength were a bit stronger, could he truly break through the domain's limits and regain freedom? This question weighed heavily on Naruto's mind like a boulder, impossible to ignore.

He knew well that the ninja world was far more complex than he had imagined; every power had its limitations and weaknesses.

Even a seemingly invincible domain was not without flaws.

Naruto started to reassess his own abilities and position, realizing that to survive in this world full of unknowns and challenges, he must keep learning and growing.

Then, he slowly approached Orochimaru, his steps steady and confident, each one seeming to declare his absolute control over the battle.

He gazed into Orochimaru's eyes, filled with complex emotions, and a meaningful smile curled at the corner of his mouth.

"You've always wanted me to join you," Naruto's voice echoed clearly through the empty domain. "So, how about you join my ranks instead?"

These words struck Orochimaru's heart like a bolt of lightning.

He never expected that at this critical moment of life and death, this child Naruto would extend such an invitation.

It was utterly unlike a child's behavior, yet after considering Naruto's strength, Orochimaru chuckled bitterly to himself.

Orochimaru had always been fascinated by Naruto.

This young man was not only powerful but also possessed astonishing regenerative abilities—the most interesting and promising ninja he had ever encountered.

Orochimaru's mind trembled. He was currently in his Eight-Branched Serpent form, having used a massive amount of Chakra for the transformation, leaving him with little recovery capacity.

Moreover, trapped by Naruto's Infinite Void, he couldn't move. If Naruto wanted to finish him, he was as good as dead.

Though his soul fragments were scattered across Anko Mitarai, that was a passive insurance measure—who knew when it would activate.

Yet, the moment he heard Naruto's offer to join his ranks, Orochimaru's eyes blazed with excitement.

He realized this was a rare opportunity—a chance to get close to Naruto and observe the growth of this monster.