Naruto: The Ōtsutsuki Bloodline Development Manual

"So, you employed this method to bait Orochimaru?"

Inside a small inn in the Land of Hot Water, Kitagawa Minamoto and Jiraiya were packing while discussing recent events.

However, after listening to Jiraiya's explanation, Minamoto's expression turned rather peculiar. He couldn't quite comprehend the dynamic between these former comrades.

"Tch, this great sage possesses numerous strategies."

Jiraiya snorted twice, but observing Minamoto's skeptical gaze, he could only smile and implement cranial negation.

"Alright, cease that look. I recognize Orochimaru likely acted deliberately.

He might be attempting to discourage me or divert my attention. After all, Itachi Uchiha is involved in this as well.

That indicates this organization is both dangerous and troublesome. But my current objective is precisely that organization!"

Jiraiya's intentions were clear. Although he regretted inability to investigate Orochimaru's affairs more deeply, the priority was examining this highly dangerous group.

With two Uchiha wielding Mangekyō Sharingan among their ranks, even Jiraiya had to prioritize carefully.

Besides, from his perspective, investigating this organization essentially meant investigating Orochimaru, so it wasn't problematic!

"But this situation presents complications."

Jiraiya rubbed his chin, his expression displaying concern.

"Orochimaru's mysterious organization is apparently serving the Mizukage. That's definitely unfavorable for us."

"Ha, indeed..."

Minamoto released wry laughter, following Jiraiya's conversational lead.

"But isn't Kirigakure's internal strife beneficial for us? From what I've heard, during past shinobi wars, Kirigakure consistently created problems for Konoha."

"That's accurate, but the Mizukage's protection will obviously impede our investigation."

Jiraiya rubbed his chin again, seemingly contemplating his next move.

"It appears I'll need to return and discuss this thoroughly with the old man."

"Indeed..."

Minamoto nodded, though he still found the entire situation somewhat surreal.

He had finally deciphered it—Jiraiya and Orochimaru, these former teammates, were essentially fishing for each other!

Jiraiya's understanding of Orochimaru was certainly profound, but he remained unaware that Orochimaru had long since departed the Akatsuki. Orochimaru was deliberately directing him toward them.

As for Orochimaru, his reasoning was equally absurd. Relying on his Akatsuki knowledge and Kirigakure intelligence, he had fabricated an excuse and justification.

And yet, all this strangely aligned with Minamoto's memories, because the ultimate target was indeed the Mizukage!

"Is this some accidental miracle where everyone achieves a favorable future?"

Minamoto remained uncertain. Everything seemed incorrect, yet somehow, it all felt right too.

All he could do was hope that developments continued in positive direction...

"Alright, kid, pack at your leisure."

As Minamoto silently mocked the chaotic event series, Jiraiya suddenly released a sigh.

"We're about to depart this beautiful Land of Hot Water. What a pity..."

"You mean you're lamenting that Konohagakure lacks such 'prosperous entertainment districts,' correct?"

Hearing Jiraiya's lament, Minamoto couldn't help but roll his eyes. Jiraiya, in turn, appeared indignant.

"Nonsense! Does this great sage seem like one who indulges in such activities? Besides, appreciating beauty is merely human nature.

I was simply admiring the fleeting brightness in mundane years, the vibrant colors of this vast world!

You little brat, what could you possibly understand?"

"Tch."

Minamoto didn't bother arguing. As poetic as Jiraiya's words sounded, they clearly served as mere cover for his questionable habits.

"Alright, continue packing independently. This great sage has matters to attend."

As he spoke, Jiraiya stood and headed for the door, leaving Minamoto somewhat flustered.

"Wait, it's broad daylight, and we just experienced combat. You're not going to..."

"What are you imagining?"

Jiraiya implemented cranial negation and sighed.

"I'm returning to that earlier tavern. The waitress there—her husband was killed by Orochimaru. While this bears no relation to us...

I can't help feeling guilty. Her family struggles, so I thought I'd provide assistance since our paths crossed.

Alright, remain here without wandering. I'll return shortly."

Hearing Jiraiya's explanation, Minamoto fell silent. It might have been sentimental, but wasn't that what defined humanity?

Still, he frowned slightly. He couldn't shake the sensation of being manipulated.

"Oh, incidentally, shall I bring oranges? I observed some particularly sweet ones being sold on the street earlier."

As Minamoto was lost in thought, Jiraiya suddenly turned back to inquire.

"..."

"And change your attire. You resemble a beggar with all those rips and tears. Don't embarrass this great sage."

Waving dismissively, Jiraiya exited the room.

"Tch..."

Minamoto muttered under his breath, feeling deceived.

Lowering his gaze to his tattered clothes, he couldn't help but smile slightly upon noticing the scratches and tears.

"Who would have anticipated this mission proceeding relatively smoothly?"

This mission had indeed progressed well. Although infiltration failed, everyone seemed to have achieved their objectives ultimately.

During his battle with Kimimaro and Jūgo, Minamoto maintained advantage. But without the Sharingan, emerging completely unscathed was impossible.

Getting grazed by Kimimaro's bones or receiving occasional punches from Jūgo during their coordinated attacks was inevitable.

Especially when Kimimaro unleashed his full Chakra in a final Dance of the Seedling Fern.

Even though Minamoto had defended himself with Purple Electricity and cut down numerous bones, he still suffered several piercings.

But...

"Mission accomplished, and I've obtained Kimimaro's Yang Power. I didn't anticipate such changes."

After acquiring this Yang Power, Chakra surged through his entire body, and Minamoto immediately perceived subtle internal changes.

With this new Chakra, while Chakra capacity increase was modest, his speed and strength were steadily improving.

But that wasn't the most crucial aspect—the most significant change was his recovery ability!

Under this power's influence, his wounds visibly ceased bleeding and began healing.

By the time Jiraiya located him, he had already fully recovered!

"What an extraordinary power..."

Minamoto could now comprehend the joy Hashirama Senju must have experienced.

In his battles with Madara Uchiha, Hashirama was always covered in injuries, yet he could recover rapidly each time.

Such extraordinary healing ability rendered him practically invincible on the battlefield. Even Madara had to admit, "No one can kill Hashirama on the battlefield."

While Minamoto couldn't attain that level, this was more than sufficient for him!

"After all, this power is still developing and adapting. Besides..."

Clenching his fist slightly, Minamoto noticed his bones seemed to be subtly absorbing his Chakra, similar to his eyes.

It felt as though something was gestating within him. However, the progress in his bones was slower, and the Chakra absorption was minimal.

"This suffices. After all, time favors me."

Stripping off his tattered clothes, Minamoto extracted a fresh set.

But just as he was donning them, sudden realization struck him.

"Damn it, am I heading toward Hamura Ōtsutsuki's path...?"

...

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