章節 167: Chapter 168 : New Subordinate
"Hiruko, how's your current status?" Takeshi observed Hiruko's downcast expression and extended a warm smile, seemingly genuine and cordial.
"Orochimaru, do you ever wonder why there's such an immense divide among individuals?"
It was evident that Hiruko had finally found someone to confide in, and he began to pour out his grievances to Takeshi.
Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Orochimaru were steadfast companions, yet despite his relentless efforts, Hiruko struggled to advance in strength. He felt even more inferior than someone like Might Duy, who relied solely on Taijutsu.
In this world, Takeshi appeared to be the sole person capable of comprehending Hiruko's suffering, having once gifted him a body enhancing solution to enhance his constitution.
Nonetheless, it yielded no significant change—Hiruko remained obstinately steadfast in his power level. Regardless of his lifelong devotion to training, his progress seemed insufferably inadequate; this was his inherent limitation.
A comparison is harmless if not excessive. As those around him ascended through the ranks, even his former peer who was ranked last during Ninja academy's days achieved chunin rank under the assessment of a jonin.
Hiruko's comrades, Sakumo Hatake and Kato Dan, outshone their contemporaries. Takeshi himself was an exceptional Special Jonin at a young age, gaining considerable notoriety.
Though Hiruko concealed his self-esteem, it was evident he held his strength level in high regard. His fixation on power seemed akin to obsession, or perhaps an indulgence in darkness.
The torment he endured daily went undisclosed, yet Takeshi perceived the grave toll it exacted on his body.
Takeshi sought something similar in him—the yearning for power.
Numerous instances of encouragement and assistance from Takeshi offered Hiruko solace. Takeshi emerged as his advocate, steadfastly boosting his confidence. Yet the outcome consistently resulted in heightened effort, coupled with greater disappointment.
Takeshi had waited for this juncture. In Hiruko's gaze, he detected an unrelenting hatred and despair.
"Why can't I achieve what others accomplish, despite exerting tenfold effort? How can the world be so unjust?"
Hiruko's eyes danced with madness, and he bared his soul before his closest "comrade," Takeshi.
Innocent and naive, he was a child ensnared by the shadows of others, failing to perceive his true self and straying from his path.
"It's evident that I've worked tirelessly. Orochimaru, it must be my lack of inherent talent. You've aided me previously, yet my physique remains inadequate!"
Hiruko's frustration found expression as he slammed into a tree, his countenance burning with resentment.
"Wouldn't it be wonderful if I could possess the talents of others."
Hiruko muttered under his breath, gazing at passing ninjas on the street.
"Marvellous, his transformation is nearly complete, just one step remaining."
Takeshi, who had been observing Hiruko's progress, finally unveiled a contented smile.
"Hiruko, there's a very accurate quote ."
Takeshi's tone turned grave, and he remarked, "Heaven and earth are impartial. All things are but dogs."
"What does that imply?" Hiruko questioned, his astonishment palpable.
"Within the objective laws of existence, there's no compassion or kindness among all entities. It's mere human delusion to think otherwise.
Every individual in this world is akin to any other entity, bound by destiny and free from exemption."
Hiruko shuddered, as if confronted with a grand revelation. Yet he struggled to fathom its depth entirely.
Takeshi sighed and continued, "Your unwavering pursuit of strength stems from your yearning. However, despite your ruthless dedication, will the heavens show you mercy and grant you greater power?"
"I..." Hiruko faltered, tears of discontent welling in his eyes. His form quivered slightly, an embodiment of his unyielding resistance, yet he couldn't contest Takeshi's words.
"I won't surrender! I refuse to accept a world where others succeed while I languish in my efforts. Unjust are the ways of this world!"
After a brief silence, Hiruko spoke vehemently, not merely addressing Takeshi, but affirming his commitment to himself.
In this moment, as he aspired for strength, Hiruko's character began to warp under the weight of potent influence, veering toward the darkness.
"I relish the fire within your eyes. Your insatiable desire opens the door for me to manipulate."
Sensing the opportune moment, Takeshi disclosed, "Indeed, Hiruko. Although your inherent talent falters, every possibility isn't exhausted. There's another path for you."
"What?" Hiruko exclaimed, his anticipation unmistakable.
"Could it be...?"
"Hiruko, you've struggled with inadequate ninja potential. However, this doesn't signify the end. There's an avenue where your prowess lies."
Takeshi's gaze grew intense, his words woven with persuasion. Hiruko was enticed, akin to a moth drawn to flame, seizing the sole opportunity that lay before him.
"What am I skilled in?"
"You excel in research and analysis, approaching your tasks with meticulous devotion. Your unwavering dedication is unmatched in my experience—you're a natural scientist and inventor."
Takeshi's words carried passion, enveloping Hiruko's heart in their shadow. His resolve solidified further.
"Hiruko, consider accompanying me. I have a role tailored to your strengths—a commitment to grant you the power you aspire to."
For the first time, Takeshi extended an olive branch to the antagonist from the original story.
"What? Orochimaru, would you accept me? But what could I possibly offer?" Hiruko inquired, struck by surprise.
"Don't underestimate yourself. Do you believe I've yet to discern your potential?" Takeshi offered meaningfully. "But are you prepared to sacrifice everything for strength?"
"Absolutely!" Hiruko responded without hesitation. "If you possess the means to reshape my destiny, I won't relinquish this opportunity. Whatever it takes, I'll embrace it wholeheartedly."
"But what if, someday, I stand against Konoha?" Takeshi locked eyes with him, probing the depths of his resolve.
"Heh, I embarked on this path in Konoha to seize control over my own destiny, and that of others.
However, Konoha fell short of my expectations—my mentor abandoned me, and the villagers scorned and ridiculed me.
A village focused solely on nurturing geniuses has no place for those like me. Why should I consider its interests when I attain power?"
Before Takeshi, Hiruko laid bare his heart, revealing his darkest facets.
"Bravo!" Takeshi applauded. "Yes, it's clear you've embraced this perspective."
With a nod, Takeshi affirmed, "Under normal circumstances, you wouldn't suffice as a conventional ninja. Initially, I envisioned you pursuing medical ninjutsu to heal and safeguard lives. My plan remains consistent!"
"Which is?"
"Do you still dream of harvesting the power of others, of acquiring the talents of geniuses, and eventually surpassing even yourself?"
"What!" Hiruko exclaimed. At present, that remained his sole aspiration. With years of groundwork and diligence, he hadn't anticipated Takeshi had already formulated a plan.
Takeshi and I share a "coincidental" dream—one where he charts the course of my growth. He's the mentor I ought to follow.
Finally, through years of preparation and painstaking effort, Takeshi earned Hiruko's trust and admiration.
"Indeed, that's the essence. This is why I urged you to study medical ninjutsu. After all, it encompasses more than mere healing."
A sinister edge underscored Takeshi's smile. "However, can you discern the implication? This entails immoral human experimentation!
Though Konoha claims benevolence, such endeavors remain covert—reserved solely for their consumption."
"They too? Are you certain?" Hiruko questioned, skeptical yet acknowledging Takeshi's identity negated any need for deception.
"Danzo, your cunning sensei, is deeply enmeshed in Konoha's human experimentation. Can you fathom the implications?" Takeshi remarked cynically.
"Danzo?! Hokage-sama's disciple. Could it be..."
Hiruko found himself rendered speechless. This revelation shattered his last shred of loyalty toward Konoha.
"Regardless of Konoha's actions, by supporting me, you become my subordinate. I demand unwavering obedience, and you shall perform any task I assign. Betrayal isn't an option."
Hiruko affirmed resolutely, "Orochimaru, I'm yours to command!"
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