Slap

After inscribing the sealing formula onto Sasuke's body, Kakashi slowly formed hand seals and placed his hand on the Cursed Seal.

"Sealing Technique, Evil Sealing Method!"

With a pained cry, Sasuke collapsed to the ground and passed out.

A smile appeared in Kakashi's eyes. "He exhausted himself like this just from trying to act tough."

Just then, Orochimaru's hoarse, rasping voice rang out.

"So you can even use Sealing Techniques now, Kakashi-kun. You've grown quite a lot!"

Upon hearing that voice, Kakashi felt as though he were looking at a snake that never stopped hissing.

The sinister feeling from his first encounter with Orochimaru still lingered vividly in his mind.

Orochimaru stepped out of the shadows, and Kakashi slowly turned around. "Orochimaru!"

"It's been over ten years since we last met, hasn't it, Kakashi-kun? Though I would like to say it's been a long time, I'm sorry—I'm not here for you, but for the child behind you."

Kakashi glanced at Sasuke on the ground and asked with some tension, "Why have you set your sights on him?"

"You're fortunate. You have already obtained it—didn't you lack it before? I also very much want your left Sharingan. The power of the Uchiha is truly fascinating."

"Orochimaru, you really are a man consumed by ambition and desire."

"Hehe, you understand me well. The recently established Otogakure is my village, but it isn't enough. To fulfill my ambitions, I need more pieces that can become my hands and feet."

"Sasuke is one of your pieces too?"

"Not yet, but he will be in the future. I'm confident that I can nurture him into an exceptionally fine piece."

As Orochimaru spoke, he began moving his feet and slowly walked forward.

Seeing Orochimaru draw closer and closer to himself and Sasuke, Kakashi assumed a defensive