Seeing that Orochimaru was now inclined toward cooperation, Nagi spoke directly:
"I'd like you to help me research the concrete training methods for Yin–Yang Release chakra."
That was his true purpose.
Orochimaru was slightly surprised. The question reminded him of his own past pursuit—the fundamental truths behind all ninjutsu in the shinobi world.
"Yin–Yang Release? I didn't expect that to be your focus."
Nagi explained calmly:
"Yin Release represents spiritual energy. Yin techniques create form from the intangible.
Yang Release represents physical energy. Yang techniques grant life to form.
When the two are combined, that is Yin–Yang Release."
Orochimaru listened, captivated. It was the first time he had heard such a precise explanation.
He had once wondered why Nagi sought the training method for Yin–Yang Release at all. After all, Konoha already possessed methods in fragmented form.
The Nara Clan's Shadow Possession Technique and the Yamanaka Clan's Mind Body Switch Technique were Yin Release in nature.
Medical ninjutsu and the Akimichi Clan's Expansion Technique were manifestations of Yang Release.
Though the great clans inherited these arts, most only followed traditional training. Few could articulate the underlying principles. The most gifted might offer partial explanations—others would simply say, "This is how our ancestors taught us."
Orochimaru's interest deepened.
"And why are you so interested in Yin–Yang Release? Surely there's more to it."
Nagi answered plainly:
"Everyone possesses Yin and Yang chakra to varying degrees—the proportions simply differ.
As for me… I pursue Yin–Yang Release for one reason.
To become stronger."
Orochimaru laughed.
"How refreshingly direct."
He was beginning to appreciate this young man.
"Very well. Come with me. Kimimaro will remain here."
Nagi nodded to Ryōma Aburame and Shigaraki Tanuki.
"You two wait here."
Orochimaru then led Nagi to his laboratory within Otogakure.
Inside the Laboratory
Orochimaru pulled out a chair and seated himself opposite Nagi.
"Please."
Nagi sat.
"There is no one else here," Orochimaru said. "And the space is insulated against sensory detection. Continue."
"Very well."
Nagi spoke steadily:
"According to our experiments over the years, each person's Yin and Yang chakra differ in proportion.
For example, within the Nara Clan, those with stronger Yin chakra demonstrate more powerful shadow techniques.
Within hospitals, those with stronger Yang chakra achieve superior healing results. Among the Akimichi, this manifests as ease of expansion and increased physical durability."
Orochimaru nodded. He had observed similar patterns, though never articulated them so clearly.
"I doubt your objective is that simple."
"Correct. I discovered that Yin and Yang chakra can also be applied to conventional ninjutsu."
"Oh?"
Nagi raised his palm.
Blue lightning gathered within it.
Orochimaru leaned forward, studying the technique carefully.
"If Yin chakra is added—"
The blue lightning gradually darkened.
It turned black.
[Naruto Uzumaki: "Huh?! Nagi's lightning changed color?!"]
[Kakashi Hatake: "That Lightning Release isn't ordinary."]
[Onoki: "Is that the amplification of Yin chakra? And that technique…"]
[Darui: "Th-That… that's impossible!"]
[A (Fourth Raikage): "That's my father's—and Darui's—Black Lightning!"]
[Third Raikage: "There's no mistake. That is Black Lightning."]
In Kumogakure, Samui and Mabui exchanged thoughtful looks as they stared at the "lightning" kanji tattooed upon Darui's shoulder.
Could it be… that the symbol itself had been inscribed using Yin chakra?
Back in the laboratory—
Orochimaru stared at the black lightning in fascination.
"Magnificent…"
"And if Yang chakra is added instead?"
Without hesitation, Nagi shifted the chakra composition.
The black lightning gradually shifted again—
Turning crimson.
"And the effects?" Orochimaru leaned closer, eyes blazing with excitement. "What distinguishes the two?"
Nagi dispersed the lightning with a faint smile.
"Based on my testing:
Black Lightning enhances destructive power and adhesion.
Red Lightning enhances destructive power and speed.
In terms of instantaneous burst damage, Yang amplification is superior."
Orochimaru continued smoothly:
"But in sustained output, Yin amplification lasts longer.
One excels at instantaneous destruction.
The other at prolonged devastation.
Ultimately, total power depends on the quantity of Yin or Yang chakra infused."
Nagi applauded lightly.
"As expected of you, Orochimaru."
Shinobi are intelligent, Nagi thought. What they lack is direction—and a mind inclined toward systematic inquiry.
But was that truly the case?
[Naruto Uzumaki: "Huh? What are they even talking about? I know every word individually—but together I don't get it!"]
[Mei Terumi: "So in theory, we could learn from the projection?"]
[Onoki: "Don't be naive. Nagi likely already controls Yin and Yang chakra freely. Some of us may not even consciously recognize our own proportions."]
Orochimaru chuckled.
"You overpraise me. I merely followed your line of reasoning."
It was perhaps the first time he had genuinely felt pleased by someone's compliment.
Ordinarily, praise came from fear—or flattery. Neither interested him.
But Nagi praised his intellect.
A rare thing indeed.
Gold is easy to obtain. A kindred spirit is not.
Suddenly inspired, Orochimaru rose and retrieved tea leaves from a cabinet. He prepared the tea himself.
After placing a cup before Nagi, he returned to his seat and sipped slowly.
Nagi drank without hesitation.
Their eyes met.
Nothing was said—yet much was understood.
Orochimaru smiled faintly.
"You're not afraid I poisoned it?"
Nagi replied calmly:
"I already examined it with Yin chakra. There are no toxins present."
Orochimaru's eyes gleamed.
"To apply Yin–Yang Release so casually in daily life… impressive."
True mastery was not shown in dramatic displays—
But in unconscious habit.
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