Deep within the cave, the stench remained overpowering. Hiruko's fleshy mass was tightly wrapped in a net of black runes like an imprisoned beast, able only to let out low, ragged breaths.
Obito was still reeling in shock. His eyes were wide as he watched Haotian's every move, as though he were looking at a monster.
Just then, hurried footsteps came from the cave entrance, accompanied by the crisp clatter of armor.
"What happened? What went on here?"
Uchiha Mei appeared at the entrance. Her gaze swept across the wrecked cave before finally landing on the fleshy mass trapped beneath the black net, her face filled with astonishment.
"What... is that?" she asked, pointing at the mass, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"Mei, you're back?" Haotian turned to look at her standing at the entrance, a hint of surprise on his face. He casually plucked the remaining flesh buds from his body and tossed them aside. "I thought it would be Guy or Kakashi."
Mei glanced at Haotian. Seeing that he was unharmed, her taut nerves relaxed slightly, though her gaze never left the fleshy mass.
She quickly walked to Haotian's side, then looked at Obito, who was clearly frightened. Concern filled her voice. "I was worried about you, so I hurried back. I didn't expect..." She stared at the mass, her brows knitting. "What exactly is going on? Could this thing be... Hiruko?"
There was uncertainty in her voice. The sight before her was simply too bizarre for her to connect it with the usually gloomy Hiruko.
"That's right. It's him." Haotian spoke calmly, as if it were something utterly insignificant.
At first, Mei was stunned. Then she relaxed, glancing at the fleshy mass restrained by the black rune net. A helpless smile appeared on her lips. "Looks like