Hokage Office.
Sarutobi Hiruzen summoned Orochimaru alone.
"Orochimaru, you performed exceptionally well in this war!"
Sarutobi Hiruzen smiled as he gave him high praise.
"Yes, Teacher Sarutobi." Orochimaru nodded slightly. His expression remained unchanged in the face of his teacher's praise.
After experiencing this great war, he felt somewhat disillusioned.
The war had ended so hastily. When the next war came, what would become of Konoha? Many familiar people would lose their lives again.
The meaning of life should not be this tedious struggle!
"For the time being, get some proper rest." Sarutobi Hiruzen noticed his disciple's mood, but he believed Orochimaru was mentally strong and would soon adjust his mindset.
"Yes."
"After some time, I'll need you to carry out a mission." Sarutobi Hiruzen changed the subject.
Orochimaru asked flatly, "What mission?"
"Monitor Danzo." Sarutobi Hiruzen's expression turned grave. "Root has now completely broken away from the village's control and become Danzo's personal organization. It must be restrained."
Orochimaru raised a brow. More of these scheming political struggles.
"Yes, I understand." Though somewhat annoyed, he did not show it and chose to accept.
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded approvingly. He had always had great faith in Orochimaru's ability to get things done.
"As for the Wood Release Experiment..." Orochimaru's gaze shifted slightly. This was what he cared about most.
"Tsunade strongly opposed it, and with so many casualties, the higher-ups unanimously decided to halt the experiment," Sarutobi Hiruzen said in a low voice.
Orochimaru frowned slightly. "The experiment can stop, but I need First Hokage Cells."
"I can grant that request, but you must conduct it in secret. You cannot expose it before producing results."
Sarutobi Hiruzen cautioned him.
Just as the Second Hokage had developed Forbidden Techniques and researched the Uchiha Sharingan, such things could not be brought into the