Yan patted Yakushi Kabuto on the head and said with a smile,
"Since you want to stay, then stay. Anyway, once I return, Orochimaru won't be a rogue ninja anymore."
"When that happens, Otogakure will be an overseas branch of Konoha, and still be part of Konoha!"
A complicated light flickered in Yakushi Kabuto's eyes.
He felt both anticipation for the future and a hint of guilt.
He bowed slightly and said respectfully, "Thank you for understanding, Lord Yan. I'll do my best to learn here and live up to your expectations."
Yan nodded slightly and glanced at the others in the laboratory.
Uchiha Itachi and the other children stood quietly to one side, their faces showing a range of expressions. Some looked excited, some nervous, and others full of anticipation.
Yan looked at Orochimaru and said, "Then I'll be going. You can't let up on your research into Yin-Yang Release and cloning."
A smile tugged at Orochimaru's lips. "Don't worry. I'm more passionate about this research than anything else."
"I'd better see that you are!" Yan nodded, choosing to take him at his word. "As for Otogakure, it's not time to make it public yet, but I'll send someone to take over. Make the necessary preparations!"
"Understood! But I'll need enough funding and resources for my laboratory!"
"Don't worry, you'll have plenty!"
With that, Yan said no more. He turned to Uchiha Itachi and the other children and said, "Come on, let's head back to Konoha."
The children all nodded and followed Yan as they prepared to leave the laboratory.
Watching them go, Orochimaru's eyes glimmered with complicated emotions, while Yakushi Kabuto stood quietly to one side.
Yan led the children out of Otogakure. Sunlight fell across them, bringing a touch of warmth.
They set out on their journey