At this moment, high above Konoha.
Without anyone noticing, a group of bizarre figures stood before a rift in space.
As Orochimaru's words fell, Aizen, standing before him, slightly raised the corner of his mouth. A hint of amusement flashed through his deep eyes as he said softly, "While I don't mind if you make a move, it would be best for you to behave yourself..."
As he spoke, he slowly turned his head and lowered his gaze toward the tiny-looking village beneath the clouds, continuing softly, "After all... our main purpose this time is merely to observe Kimimaro and the others' performance..."
Hearing this, Orochimaru, standing behind him, lightly licked his lips. An eerie gleam flashed in the snake-like pupils of his narrow eyes as he rasped with a smile, "It doesn't matter. If that's the case, then I'll wait a little longer..."
"To me, research on Hollows is what matters most..."
At his answer, Aizen nodded lightly, the composed smile never leaving his face. He glanced at the people beside Orochimaru and chuckled.
"Bear with it for now. I have no desire to see you exposed to the world during the Chunin Exams."
Upon hearing him, Gin, the silver-haired man behind him, narrowed his eyes slightly and said with a smile, "Rest assured, Captain Aizen. We'll behave ourselves..."
"After all... we're all very interested in the changes Hollows may undergo now as well!"
As he spoke, a brilliant azure glint radiated from Gin's narrowed eyes, and a broad curve slowly formed at his lips. Beside him, several bizarre figures nodded in agreement.
Seeing this, Aizen merely nodded indifferently and said slowly, "Then go and lead them to observe the power of ninjas."
After speaking, Aizen slowly turned around. Without another word, his figure vanished from the air.
After