Konoha.
Orochimaru's Laboratory.
Numerous data points were refreshing on the screen before him.
As he operated the controls, he looked toward a Cultivation Tank beside him.
An embryo floated inside, already having grown to the size of a fist.
Behind Orochimaru stood Tsunade and her husband, Karin, Kimimaro, and Haku.
After verifying all the data, Orochimaru gave a slight nod.
He then picked up a scroll beside him and examined it.
It bore the mark of the Hidden Grass Village and seemed to contain one of its secret techniques.
Once he had confirmed everything was correct, Orochimaru walked over to Haku.
"Let me ask you one last time, Haku. Have you made up your mind?"
Haku nodded, his calm expression carrying a firm resolve.
"Lord Orochimaru, I leave it to you."
Orochimaru had only asked as a matter of routine, and the answer did not surprise him.
The people he liked most were those with unwavering resolve, because The Advancement of Science always required someone to make sacrifices.
That said, to keep Natsuki from returning and tearing down his laboratory.
Orochimaru had still made extensive preparations.
"Stand here." Orochimaru pointed at the enormous array on the ground.
Haku was already familiar with the procedure.
He stepped onto it and took his position.
Seeing Kimimaro watching him with concern, Haku tilted his head and smiled. His eyes curved into crescents as he smiled, making him look especially adorable.
Kimimaro, you don't need to worry about me. This was my choice. No matter how it ends, I won't regret it.
Though Haku said nothing, the determination in his eyes conveyed all of that to Kimimaro.
Kimimaro raised his hand and looked at the Karma in his palm, then let out a breath.
Tsunade and Dan Katō beside them also wore complicated expressions,