Early the next morning, at Konoha's gates.
"Jin, it's been a while."
Orochimaru had changed into a shinobi flak jacket, his hair hanging loose over his shoulders. He smiled and greeted the two approaching him.
"Mm."
Uchiha Jin nodded lightly, his gaze casually sweeping over the health bar above Orochimaru's head.
Its color did not seem to have changed much.
It was still red, as always.
Orochimaru's gaze fell on Shisui Uchiha behind Jin, and a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.
According to the intelligence he had gathered, hadn't those two fallen out?
It seemed Anko's information was already outdated.
In truth, Orochimaru was swamped with research every day and would not go prying into other people's private lives for lack of anything better to do.
His student Anko had merely mentioned a few things when she occasionally brought him food.
"Orochimaru."
Shisui Uchiha greeted him respectfully.
He had not expected such an impressive lineup today. Two of the Konoha Sannin had actually come!
It seemed the dungeon run Jin had mentioned was no simple affair!
His expression grew solemn. He had been right not to use Kotoamatsukami on his friend just yet.
Otherwise, they would be in trouble if they ran into a powerful enemy.
Then again, with such a powerful lineup, they probably would not need his Mangekyō ability.
Even now, Jin was the only person who knew he had awakened the Mangekyō Sharingan.
It was best saved for his friend. Otherwise, Jin's condition would only grow worse!
"Hello, Shisui."
Orochimaru responded with a smile.
Although he had never interacted with Shisui Uchiha, a prodigy whose reputation rivaled Jin's within the Uchiha Clan could not be weak.
A body like that was certain to unleash limitless potential.
If only he could have a body like that...
"Kid,