Orochimaru licked his lips. He didn't understand what had gotten into Shimura Danzō.
But he knew it had to do with that phone... no, with the person behind the scenes.
"All right. Since you're so determined, have Root keep capturing bandits for me. The experiment needs to succeed on a broad scale, and these test subjects are nowhere near enough."
Shimura Danzō had been very supportive of Orochimaru's experiments before. He believed they would greatly increase his strength and help him claim the Hokage Position.
But now, it seemed he had a better way, while it was anyone's guess when Orochimaru's experiments would succeed.
The test subjects consumed in the process required a great deal of manpower and resources.
He was beginning to feel it wasn't worth it.
"Konoha's economy is in trouble now, and Root's funding has been cut considerably. You need to produce results as soon as possible."
Orochimaru looked at Shimura Danzō coldly. He could clearly sense that Danzō's mind was no longer on the experiments.
But Orochimaru didn't think that mattered.
The two of them had never been in a subordinate relationship. They were partners.
If Shimura Danzō ever decided he no longer wanted to work with him,
then they would part on good terms. Orochimaru was capable of continuing his research into Hashirama Cells on his own.
"Results will come soon. Just wait and see."
Orochimaru turned and left. Shimura Danzō showed no reaction.
Orochimaru had indeed achieved some results: Yamato, who possessed Wood Release.
But Hiruzen Sarutobi had discovered him and brought him into Anbu.
This had undoubtedly dealt Shimura Danzō a serious blow.
Root had poured so many resources into raising a ninja capable of using Wood Release.
In the end, someone else had reaped the rewards.
Looking back over the years, he