Set up by the capitalists

Perhaps it was because Xuanye had previously tried to merge natural energy using the power of his Cursed Seal. Another reason was that the Yin Release and Yang Release powers within him were exceptionally strong.

Moreover, by analyzing the Senju Clan's three great secret techniques, Xuanye had essentially unraveled the mysteries of the sage body.

Once he finished learning Senjutsu in Shikkotsu Forest, Xuanye might even be able to replicate the power of Hashirama's sage body.

While Uchiha Genya practiced Senjutsu in Shikkotsu Forest, the arrangements he had left behind were being carried out at full speed.

Kabuto had no idea that the capitalists had already set him up. He was still working diligently, dreaming of buying a large house in the Konoha Second Ring someday and bringing Mama Nonō and his friends from the orphanage over to enjoy a comfortable life.

When he was first transferred to Hozuki Castle, Kabuto had indeed been rather apprehensive, treading carefully while working under Orochimaru.

After all, the work here was hardly something a normal person could do, and Orochimaru was no good man either. It was only natural to be cautious at first.

But later, once he grew accustomed to the workload, he even produced research findings of his own.

After recognizing Kabuto's potential, Orochimaru increased his workload, but that also meant he valued the boy more.

Once Kabuto realized this, his initial anxiety vanished.

After all, now that he had proven his worth, neither Orochimaru nor Lord Hokage would allow anything to happen to him.

With that reassurance, Kabuto lost his initial nervousness and sense of urgency. He even gradually began treating his work at Hozuki Castle like a regular job.

He clocked in and out, and occasionally slacked off during the day.

Lord Hokage paid him a decent salary,