Orochimaru picked up a file and read through it. "Hmm, the First Hokage's cells possessed tremendous life power. This power maintained the cells' vitality remarkably well and slowed the changes in chromosomes after cell division. In other words, barring serious injuries, the First Hokage should have had an unlimited lifespan. He should have been immortal. If I could acquire a body like that, then combined with my research into souls, true immortality might be possible."
Orochimaru took out another file and began reading. "So far, Yamato and Danzo are the two who have received Hashirama Cells. Although Danzo underwent the transplant, his body rejected the cells. He retained their power, but suffered a severe backlash. The tremendous vitality of Hashirama Cells couldn't benefit him. It would only bring him death. Hmm, as for Yamato, although the cells integrated perfectly, that vitality disappeared. Only their elemental nature remained, allowing him to use Wood Release, but without the immense vitality and chakra-absorbing ability of the First Hokage's Wood Release. Both were failures."
Orochimaru tossed aside the files, a hint of disappointment on his face. Then he picked up a scroll from the table and read it. "Hmm, the Uzumaki Clan's Sealing Jutsu. There should be a way to undo this Dead Demon Consuming Seal. So this was what the mask that brat Naruto gave me was for."
Orochimaru set down the scroll and took out a mask. Naruto had given it to him-the Death God mask. He gazed at the mask in his hands, lost in thought.
Just then, Kabuto Yakushi walked in. "Lord Orochimaru, Lord Sasori wants to meet with me."
Orochimaru immediately perked up. He turned toward Kabuto Yakushi, excitement on his face. "Hmm, it seems Sasori is getting impatient. According to the news from Konoha, Obito Uchiha and Kakashi