Two Mangekyō

Shiraha accompanied Orochimaru all the way to the Land of Rice Fields, where they were secretly received by the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields.

During this period, Shiraha did not try to recruit Orochimaru again, since they had a considerable understanding of each other.

Shiraha knew that even if he offered the most favorable terms, Orochimaru was unlikely to agree.

As for some of the most core secrets, the only person Shiraha could trust was Kushina, so he couldn't possibly reveal things like Breathing Technique and Meditation Method.

Moreover, his desire to recruit Orochimaru stemmed not only from his appreciation of Orochimaru's abilities and research skills, but also primarily from their past mentor-student relationship, as Orochimaru had indeed treated him very well in the past.

At this time, deep within the mansion of the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields, there was a secluded courtyard.

This place is usually reserved by the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields for extremely distinguished guests. When Hiruko to the Land of Rice Fields before, he did not stay here.

However, Orochimaru was different. Even after learning that he had defected from Konoha, his importance in the eyes of the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields did not diminish in the slightest.

In the courtyard, Shiraha and Orochimaru sat on the veranda, leisurely drinking tea.

After hearing Orochimaru's explanation of the defection, Shiraha raised an eyebrow, put down his teacup, and said, "So it's very likely that Danzo you! After all, if he kicks you out of the game, he'll be only one step away from becoming the Fourth Hokage."

"Why don't you explain to the Third Hokage?" Shiraha asked. Seeing Orochimaru remain silent, he then gave a self-deprecating smile. "That's true. How can I explain something like this? Knowing the Third Hokage as I do, he would definitely assume immediately that you did it on purpose."

Orochimaru turned to look at the old tree in the yard, its leaves withered, his eyes somewhat somber.

"This matter is related to what happened with Sakumo," Shiraha continued, but after noticing Orochimaru's expression, he stopped talking.

Using one's own village's ninjas for experiments is indeed extremely heinous. Even if Orochimaru was framed, he still bears undeniable responsibility. However, like the Sakumo incident, this matter can be considered a minor or major issue.

As long as public opinion leans towards saving his comrades over completing the mission, Sakumo will naturally not commit suicide due to the collapse of his faith.

Similarly, the Third Hokage first imprisoned Orochimaru, then investigated the matter, and finally punished Orochimaru accordingly.

To be realistic, given Orochimaru's reputation in Konoha and his importance to the Konoha, even if this matter were to come to light and his reputation were severely damaged, most ninjas would still choose to forgive him.

Because Kage Level ninja like him is worth countless Jōnin, Chunin, and Genin.

Of course, guiding public opinion is very important.

The Third Hokage probably made a judgment on Orochimaru in his mind as soon as he saw that scene, which is why Orochimaru was completely disheartened and decided to betray Konoha.

"So what are you planning to do in the future? Will you stay in the Land of Rice Fields?" Shiraha changed the subject.

Orochimaru snapped out of his daze and said, "I will continue to develop Forbidden Technique. I will go wherever it is safe. Danzo will not let me off easily, after all, I know too many of his secrets."

"Exploring the unknown is indeed fascinating, but I hope you can stick to your principles and not harm innocent people because of this incident." Shiraha nodded slightly, not finishing his sentence, but he knew Orochimaru understood what he meant.

What Orochimaru was like in the original work has nothing to do with the current Shiraha. He only knows that the Orochimaru he knows is a person who is cold on the outside but warm on the inside. At the very least, he is not a ninja who kills innocent people indiscriminately and has no humanity.

Shiraha didn't want Orochimaru to become like the character in the original story because of this incident.

"If I really wanted to find test subjects, many people would volunteer," Orochimaru said calmly, but there was a hint of dissatisfaction in his eyes, as if he was blaming Shiraha for thinking of him that way.

"Indeed." Shiraha nodded. If Orochimaru were to run a pyramid scheme, those people from his previous life would probably be doomed. The key is that even if he were to do something dangerous, if he made the dangers clear beforehand, there would probably be a lot of people willing to become test subjects.

It's not that those people are the problem, but in this damned chaotic world, many people will stop at nothing to become stronger, and they're not even afraid of death.

"In that case, I'm relieved and will get ready to go back now."

Shiraha stood up with a smile.

Orochimaru also stood up, looked at Shiraha, and slowly said, "Don't you want to know what Forbidden Technique I'm researching? This is a true Eternal Technique. Once successfully developed, it can Eternal Life. Aren't you interested?"

"I'm very interested, but while eternity may exist in this world, there is no true Eternal Technique. Every Ninjutsu has its flaws and is never absolutely perfect," Shiraha said seriously, but then added in a joking tone, "Besides, even if you do successfully develop the so-called Eternal Technique, if it takes too long, I might be dead by then."

"You're underestimating me?!" Orochimaru said with a stern face, "In ten years at most, I will be able to successfully develop the Eternal Technique. Don't regret it then!"

"Then I'll definitely develop even more powerful techniques, and you'll definitely want to trade with me," Shiraha chuckled.

"Hmph! We'll see." Orochimaru sneered.

"Good."

Shiraha nodded, suddenly feeling that they were like two childish kids sulking.

"Orochimaru-sensei, take care."

As he spoke, Shiraha's expression turned serious, and he reached out his hand towards Orochimaru.

Orochimaru frowned slightly, but finally extended his hand and shook hands with Shiraha.

East of the Land of Fire.

A group of people arrived on the plains in the southern part of the Land of Grass, bordering the Land of Fire Border.

Dozens of Kirigakure Ninja escorted Nohara Rin towards Konoha.

Due to Orochimaru's defection, Minato Namikaze and Danzo, as the only two popular candidates for the Fourth Hokage, went to the Fire Capital to pay homage to the Daimyo and will remain Fire Capital for some time.

After Kakashi became Jōnin, he led a team on his own, while Nohara Rin, who was promoted to Chunin after the last mission, remained in Team Kakashi.

While they were on their way to Kirigakure to carry out a mission, Nohara Rin was captured by Kirigakure ninjas. Before Kakashi could send his Request for Aid call back to Konoha, the Kirigakure ninjas took Nohara Rin on a detour and secretly infiltrated the Land of Grass north of the Land of Fire, heading straight for Konoha. Less than half a day had passed since Kakashi sent his Request for Aid call.

At this moment, Kakashi was using Earth Release, hanging underground not far behind the group.

Boom--!

A huge explosion rang out.

Kakashi, who was hiding underground, was discovered by the Kirigakure Ninja, who quickly launched an attack on him, detonating a large number of Exploding Tag at the same spot.

Fortunately, Kakashi reacted quickly and left the underground area immediately to dodge, but as soon as he was exposed, he was surrounded by dozens of Kirigakure Ninja.

"An enemy! The plan must not be exposed, kill him!"

Laugh!

Kakashi's White Fang Short Sword emitted a faint white light. His Breathing Technique and Lightning Release Chakra erupted instantly. A cross-shaped blade of light flashed, and a Kirigakure who was attacking Kakashi first Jōnin as a huge wound appeared on his chest, blood gushing out.

"Damn it!" Kakashi severely Jōnin with one blow, but he was not happy at all. Even with his explosive Breathing Technique, his swordsmanship was still some distance from Sakumo's. If Sakumo had swung that slash, the Kirigakure Jōnin would not have been severely injured, but would have been killed on the spot.

"This is the swordsmanship of Konoha White Fang?! Don't engage him in close combat, use Ninjutsu!"

The other Kirigakure Jōnin were all stunned by Kakashi's terrifying slash.

Even in death, the Konoha White Fang's reputation still intimidates many ninjas.

With the order from the Kirigakure Jōnin, the Chunin were originally attacking Kakashi quickly created distance and used Ninjutsu and ninja tools to launch mid-to-close range attacks on him.

"Water Style: Water Dragon Bullet Jutsu!"

"Water Style: Water Formation Pillar!"

"Water Style: Water Release: Water Shark Bomb Jutsu!"

Kakashi used his left eye's Double Tomoe Sharingan to see the movements of the Kirigakure Ninja through his powerful dynamic vision. Because the Sharingan was not compatible with his body and consumed a lot of his energy, he could not fight for long. Kakashi wanted to finish the battle quickly from the beginning.

He held a knife in his left hand and his right hand hanging down. A large amount of Lightning Release Chakra gathered in his right palm, and silvery-white arcs of electricity burst forth, as if countless birds were emitting sharp cries.

"Chidori!"

With the help of powerful Lightning Release Chakra, Kakashi's speed increased rapidly. In a few flashes, he closed in and killed a Kirigakure Jōnin, rescued Nohara Rin, and used his Ninja Blade to cut the ropes binding her.

"Huff... Huff... Lin, find a chance to escape, I'll hold them off!"

Kakashi tried to calm himself, but he kept panting heavily.

Both Breathing Technique and the Hatake Style Swordsmanship are explosive skills, and the Sharingan consumes too much energy. In addition, he used Lightning Release Chakra to increase his speed. In less than five minutes of the series of attacks, Kakashi felt his stamina was exhausted. He could only use Chidori once more before he was done for.

"Kakashi, you go on your own. I'm under Sealing Jutsu and can't use Chakra, so I can't go far!"

Lin quickly urged Kakashi to leave.

Upon seeing Kakashi approach Nohara Rin, the other Kirigakure Ninja ceased using Ninjutsu against Kakashi and instead engaged in close combat.

On one hand, they noticed that Kakashi's Chakra clearly insufficient. On the other hand, the Three-Tails was sealed inside Nohara Rin's body. If they accidentally injured her and released the Three-Tails now, not only would their plan fail, but they would also likely be in grave danger.

After Kakashi noticed that the Kirigakure ninjas would deliberately avoid Nohara Rin when attacking him, he launched a counterattack with peace of mind. However, he always kept himself within five meters of Nohara Rin, preventing the Kirigakure Ninja from having a chance to touch her.

"Kakashi, you should leave now! If this continues, none of us will escape. They won't kill me now!"

Lin looked at Kakashi, whose movements were getting slower and slower, and said anxiously.

"Rin, I will definitely protect you! This is my promise to Obito!"

Kakashi said firmly.

Laugh!

The cross-shaped sword flashed again.

"Ah!"

"Ah!"

Four Kirigakure Ninja perished under White Fang's sharp teeth.

However, Kakashi's breathing became increasingly heavy.

He had done his best to protect Rin, who was completely defenseless, while facing an attack by dozens of ninjas.

It seems I won't be able to leave here alive today. If I die here, I can see my father and Obito, which seems like a good thing.

With that thought in mind, Kakashi resolutely used up his last bit of Chakra, and silvery-white arcs of electricity filled the White Fang Short Sword in his hand as he turned and stabbed at the ninja attacking from behind.

Pfft!

Blood splattered everywhere. Kakashi stared in disbelief at the scene before him. Suddenly, Rin rushed over, and the White Fang Short Sword pierced through her heart.

"Kakashi, live... live." Rin managed to speak, but the Lightning Release Chakra had already paralyzed her body, leaving her without the strength to even speak.

Kakashi was struck dumb, staring blankly as Rin fell to the ground. An indescribable surge of powerful Chakra erupted from his left eye, and immense fatigue overwhelmed Kakashi's body, plunging him into darkness as well.

Thump!

Kakashi then fell to the ground.

At this moment, Obito, who was encased in a White Zetsu shell not far away, rushed over upon hearing the news. He connected his vision through Kakashi's Sharingan in his left eye and saw the scene before him. The next moment, he finally arrived at the scene.

"No—! Lin! Why!?"

"This can't be real!"

"This is hell!"

Obito's right Sharingan evolved directly from Double Tomoe to the Mangekyō Sharingan. He staggered toward Rin's 'corpse' with a dazed look in his eyes.

"Who goes there?!"

The Kirigakure Ninja were about to finish off Kakashi, were taken aback and launched an attack on Obito.

"Ah—!" Obito let out a shrill scream and charged straight at the Kirigakure Ninja, ignoring the ninja tools and Ninjutsu attacking him, and just kept charging straight ahead.

All the attacks passed right through Obito's body. The ninjas attacking from both the front and back even Ninja Blade each other in the process of penetrating Obito's body.

"Ah!"

"What's going on?!"

' Wood Release: Wood Dragon Technique!'

With a loud rumble, the earth trembled violently, and the ground cracked inch by inch, as if a dragon were turning over. A huge dragon-shaped tree trunk, more than forty meters long, burst out of the ground, its body covered with sharp thorns.

The Wood Dragon, as if alive, swept away the surrounding Kirigakure Ninja with a single tail swing, and then swallowed Kakashi and Rin's 'corpses'.

A man wearing Uzumaki Mask stood atop the Wood Dragon's head and quickly disappeared into the distance.

"Tobi?!" Obito was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized that the White Zetsu wrapped around his body was Tobi.

"Stop! Give Lin back to me!"

Obito screamed and chased after it into the distance, but the Wood Dragon was too fast and disappeared from Obito's sight in the blink of an eye.

' Wood Release: Wood Splinter Technique!'

' Wood Release: Hell Chaos!'

In a moment of desperation, Obito felt his Chakra suddenly surge, and as if by instinct, he used Wood Release Ninjutsu.

"Ah!"

"Ah!"

The remaining Kirigakure Ninja died instantly upon being touched by Obito, their bodies sprouting sharp wooden spikes.

Immediately afterwards, large trees covered with thorns and spikes began to grow from the ground, spiraling upwards and strangling all the Kirigakure Ninja.

Blood rained down from the sky.

Obito stared in the direction Rin had disappeared, then collapsed to the ground with a thud, unconscious.

At this moment, Tobi, who was wrapped in Obito's body, was a little confused. The ninja wearing the Uzumaki Mask just now looked almost exactly like him. How could this happen?

"I need to go back and report to Madara right away!"

With that thought in mind, Tobi controlled Obito's body to return the way he came.

The Land of Grass.

Underground stronghold.

White Zetsu Tobi, wrapped around the unconscious Obito, used the Mayfly Technique to quickly head towards the underground base.

Obito woke up halfway there.

Ban sat upright on the stone seat.

He controlled the Third Mizukage to seal the Three-Tails into Nohara Rin's body.

After witnessing Obito's cockroach-like tenacity, Madara felt that he was a suitable candidate.

The Uchiha is one of the few in its entire history capable of directly activating the Double Tomoe.

Especially since Obito seems so innocent and kind, the more innocent and kind a person is, the more distorted their thinking becomes after they turn evil.

Even Madara didn't expect that Obito would directly awaken the Mangekyō Sharingan.

"It seems to be due to the Hashirama cells. Hashirama, I never imagined that even after you've been dead for so many years, I would still need your help at all times."

Ban thought to himself.

"Didn't you say you were going back to Konoha? Why are you coming back?"

"Madara, tell me your plan." Obito's eyes were no longer as innocent and naive as before, but had become deep and cold. "This false world has no reason to exist."

"Tell me how to create the world of my dreams, Madara!"

Come to me.

Ban said calmly.

"Look me in the eyes."

Madara's Three-Tomoe condensed slightly, and Obito was immediately trapped in Madara's Genjutsu.

a long time.

"Obito, I will teach you the Six Paths Technique and the Yin-Yang Release Technique."

After explaining everything, Madara looked at the White Zetsu beside him.

"I will infuse my will into White Zetsu's body; he can help you."

Madara placed his hand on the White Zetsu Original and used Yin-Yang Release.

The other half of White Zetsu Original's body was enveloped in black fluid.

Next, Madara used Yin-Yang Release to create a Black Rod, telling Obito that he could use the Black Rod when using Six Paths Technique.

After doing all this, Madara rose from the stone throne and severed the nutrient ducts that extended from the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path to his body.

Having lost the power of the golem, Madara's aura weakened at a visible rate before plunging into boundless darkness.

Above the Wood Dragon, the Wood Spirit Avatar as Sage Mode user, used Yang Release Chakra to heal Nohara Rin.

"Fortunately, it only pierced the heart, so I feel there's still hope."