With his goal achieved, a gleam of excitement flashed in Danzo's eyes.
The position of Hokage is mine, and no one can take it from me!!!
In the dimly lit underground laboratory, Orochimaru was busy. The room was filled with advanced research equipment, and several glass containers housed Orochimaru's experimental subjects.
Hearing the sound of a cane approaching from behind, Orochimaru didn't even turn around as he asked:
"Did the old man summon you today?"
"I thought you only cared about your research."
Danzo, leaning on his cane, slowly walked into the room.
"No, I care about other things besides research. By the way, I need some tools and experimental materials. Please prepare them as soon as possible, or my research will come to a halt. I believe you don't want to see that happen, do you?"
Staring at the specimen on the operating table, Orochimaru's eyes glowed with madness.
How perfect, truly perfect.
Even after all these years, these cells were still active, still dividing, just like cancer cells. Hearing Orochimaru complain again about the lack of tools and materials, Danzo's good mood vanished instantly.
He had already spent significant effort setting up this underground lab, providing all the latest equipment, almost draining his personal resources.
Many of the supplies even came from the support of the Shimura clan.
And now Orochimaru wanted even more advanced equipment. Danzo was in a difficult position.
"Orochimaru, I think you should restrain yourself. Tsunade is currently in control of the logistics department, and without Sarutobi's approval, I can't just take whatever you need from there."
At Danzo's words, Orochimaru paused, turned his head slightly, and smiled:
"That's your problem. I'm only responsible for the research. Everything else has nothing to do with me. If you're not afraid of delaying your progress, then I don't mind."
After all, you're the one trying to restore your body, Danzo, not me.
If you're okay with slowing down, then just make do with what you have. I'm in no hurry.
"....."
Successfully outmaneuvered by Orochimaru, Danzo remained silent for a moment.
"I'll figure something out, but I want to see some real progress from you. Also, your promising student has been very active at sea lately. The Mist Village is sending representatives to Konoha for negotiations because the Seven Ninja Swordsmen had their weapons stolen."
"I'm quite pleased."
Orochimaru smiled but had no intention of continuing the conversation with Danzo. He returned to his work, treating Danzo as though he were invisible.
"Hmph!"
After standing there for a while, realizing Orochimaru was ignoring him, Danzo could only grunt in dissatisfaction before leaving the lab.
As Orochimaru gazed at the specimen on the table, he chuckled softly.
"What a perfect existence. If Tsunade saw this, she'd go mad with rage."