Orochimaru's voice was hoarse and magnetic, carrying a dangerous presence. It was as though a venomous snake's fangs were brushing against your ear, sending a chill down your spine.
"You've got some nerve."
"I showed you mercy and let you go once. You were lucky."
"And now you actually dare to deliberately lure me out."
The missing corpses from the logistics unit were naturally Orochimaru's doing. With his abilities, hiding it would not have been difficult,
but Orochimaru was simply too curious about Sarutobi Hiruzen's current behavior. He couldn't resist leaving a clue to lure Sarutobi Hiruzen out.
Sarutobi Hiruzen narrowed his eyes and ignored the dangerous presence as he sized up Orochimaru before him.
In terms of both strength and influence, Orochimaru was no match for Sarutobi Hiruzen now that he had recovered his full power.
Besides, Sarutobi Hiruzen no longer had the Third Hokage's old softness, and he had no need to worry about Orochimaru.
Sarutobi Hiruzen studied the former prized pupil standing before him.
Strictly speaking, this was his first time meeting this immensely charismatic villain.
Orochimaru had not yet fallen completely into the twisted spiral of perversion and research, losing his humanity.
Instead, he was still in his prime, exuding an imposing air befitting one of the Konoha Sannin.
Only his eyes were somewhat gloomy, filled with naked ambition.
"I didn't want to come see you either, Teacher Sarutobi."
"Taking a few experimental specimens from the battlefield would have been enough."
Orochimaru licked his lips and regarded the teacher who had become somewhat unfamiliar to him with a strange look.
"But the changes in you, Teacher Sarutobi..."
"I'm simply too curious..."
Orochimaru had keenly noticed the changes in Sarutobi Hiruzen.
The wrinkles on his face had smoothed out, and his body radiated a vigorous aura.
It