The two kept exchanging blows, their fists, arms, knees, and legs colliding rapidly as they darted across the ground, leaping and shifting positions.
Their eyes met, and both shuddered.
For a fleeting moment, they seemed to recall the days when they had fought each other in their youth.
"You really have grown, Orochimaru!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi spoke with a soft sigh.
His breathing grew labored. With every clash, he felt the tremendous force surging from his opponent.
That strength already surpassed the physical capabilities of an ordinary ninja, clearly bolstered by natural energy.
And that meant his senior disciple had become intimately familiar with Sage Mode. He might even have fully integrated that power into his body.
"I still have plenty of new things to show you."
Orochimaru spoke softly.
His expression was calm, his breathing steady. The battle seemed to have had no effect on him whatsoever.
"Is that so?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi's gaze wavered for a moment, and a kick sent him flying with a thud.
After steadying himself, he slowly raised his head.
"Sage Art: Great Luo Sword Formation!"
The dispassionate voice rang out, and Hiruzen Sarutobi's pupils abruptly contracted.
Behind Orochimaru, silver blades coiled like serpentine shadows into a sword formation, their gleaming tips flashing with cold light.
"The snakes are swords, and the swords are snakes."
"This is a new ninjutsu I developed after mastering sage chakra."
Orochimaru spoke softly.
Hiruzen Sarutobi blinked. Sure enough, the sword formation before him became a formation of snakes, each blade transforming into a serpent.
But in the blink of an eye, they turned back into swords.
"Tell me what you think of this technique, Teacher!"
Orochimaru extended his hand, pointing his fingers forward.
Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!
In an instant, streak after streak of sword light shot out, heading