Verifying the existence of a "god"

The moment Orochimaru saw Tsunade trying to poach his subordinate, his face darkened. He stepped in front of Kabuto and shouted:

"Tsunade, we haven't seen each other in years, and the first thing you do is try to steal my people? What is the meaning of this?!"

If not for the friendship they still shared, Orochimaru would have turned on her right then.

Do you have any idea what I paid to get someone this talented?

Uchiha Genya never lets himself come out on the losing end of a deal!

They had barely reunited, yet already seemed ready to throw their old friendship aside. The laboratory practically crackled with tension.

Tsunade was about to shove Orochimaru aside with brute force when Kabuto bowed again and firmly declined:

"I'm very sorry, Lady Tsunade."

Tsunade and Orochimaru stopped arguing.

Kabuto continued, "I'm a Konoha ninja. I do whatever Lord Hokage tells me to do."

"I can't become your apprentice without his permission."

Kabuto had been clever since childhood. He knew exactly what attitude to show at a time like this to avoid getting caught in a clash between the big shots.

I just do whatever Lord Hokage tells me. If you have a problem, take it up with him.

In truth, Tsunade's offer had tempted Kabuto a little.

After all, Hozuki Castle was no place for a human being. Who knew where Orochimaru had picked up the habit, but after discovering Kabuto's talent, he had created a Shadow Clone specifically to carry a literal whip and spend every day prodding him to mold chakra, study all sorts of ninjutsu, record experimental data, and so on.

His schedule was practically regulated down to the minute. Orochimaru was treating him like a complete ***.

The only time Kabuto had to himself was at noon