Naruto: Unlocking Kaido Template

Orochimaru considered himself a scientist first and a shinobi second.

He believed that everything could be explained by science—even forbidden techniques had their own operating rules and traces to follow. This philosophy of rationality allowed him to perceive the world's essence and accomplish feats beyond the imagination of ordinary people.

When he initially cooperated with Zixu, it wasn't out of goodwill. His mentality was simple: I have the power to kill you, so why should I cooperate with you? You should be the one begging for an alliance to prove you're worthy of living.

That was Orochimaru's mindset during their first meeting, and it hadn't changed since.

However, after the Konoha Crush Plan, he realized that Zixu was incomprehensibly powerful—absurdly so. Zixu's growth speed defied all logic. No known ninjutsu could make someone so overwhelmingly strong in such a short period of time.

Unless... Orochimaru had a theory. If his assumption was correct, then Zixu's inexplicable strength would make sense.

Later, Zixu handed him one strange object after another for research. Orochimaru was fully aware that Zixu was trying to tie him down with science—an obvious ploy. Yet, despite knowing it was a trap, he willingly walked into it.

After all, he had already prepared his escape plan.

Why flee? The answer was simple: Zixu's movements were too audacious. The strength and resources he displayed were monstrous. When Zixu acted, he did so with the force of a thunderstorm, sweeping away all obstacles. If things continued at that pace, Konoha would inevitably suffer.

Orochimaru, as cold and ruthless as his namesake, was a heartless and ungrateful serpent. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, there was always a voice in his head telling him to protect Konoha.

He couldn't comprehend why. It was irrational.

The so-called Konoha Crush Plan had always been within his calculations. The "collapse" had only ever been aimed at Sarutobi Hiruzen personally. In the end, Konoha itself emerged as the true victor.

Thinking back, Orochimaru hadn't anticipated that Gekkō Hayate would be captured by Sasori. But in hindsight, it was no surprise—Sasori, a man obsessed with eternal beauty, would naturally be drawn to the Impure World Reincarnation (Edo Tensei) technique.

Now, Orochimaru could use Gekkō Hayate as a conduit to communicate with the Akatsuki and slow Zixu's expansion.

He knew Zixu had never fully trusted him—but so what? As long as Orochimaru mastered the technology Zixu provided, the latter would be unlikely to make a move against him. Slowly but surely, his plan could unfold.

The ideal scenario? Taking over Zixu's body while Konoha seized the Land of Whirlpools. Then, Orochimaru could devote himself entirely to technological research, free from distractions.

Knock, knock, knock.

A series of calm, measured knocks interrupted Orochimaru's musings. Groggily, he rose from his recliner, rubbing his tired eyes.

"Kabuto, is that you?" he asked lazily, his body stiff and in need of a massage.

"It's me, Zixu. I'm here to ask about the artificial Devil Fruit. How's the research going?" Zixu's voice rang from behind the steel door.

"I'm almost done. Don't disturb me," Orochimaru replied in a low, gravelly tone.

Both knew the other's true intentions, but they played along with the façade.

"Just finish it quickly and get back to work," Zixu said casually. Then, he stowed away the crystal ball in his hand, ending his telescope technique. Everything appeared normal.

Meanwhile, Orochimaru stretched his limbs. From behind the bookshelf, his real body emerged, having used a clone to answer the door. He let out a long sigh and resumed his work.

After leaving Orochimaru's laboratory, Zixu made his way to Ryūchi Cave. When it came to free high-level combat power (thugs), the three Great Serpent Princesses of Ryūchi Cave were the best candidates. With nothing better to do, they would serve as perfect muscle for the job.

Despite rarely visiting Ryūchi Cave, Zixu easily tracked down the trio's whereabouts.

To the Hime, who measured time in centuries, a few years were nothing more than a brief nap. Yet, they had changed significantly.

Ichikishimahime floated lazily in the air, holding a small watermelon in her hands. The bright red juice trickled from the melon's flesh, dripping into her awaiting mouth.

Just as she was about to enjoy her treat, an uninvited guest appeared.

With a casual grab, Zixu snatched Ichikishimahime right out of the air. Her eyes widened in shock as she watched the precious watermelon juice fall—right into Zixu's mouth.

"You bastard!"

Furious, Ichikishimahime lunged at him, baring her fangs. She clawed at Zixu, yanking his hair and even attempting to bite him. Unfortunately for her, it was like trying to gnaw on iron.

"So sweet." Zixu smirked, licking his lips. "You really know how to enjoy yourself."

Ichikishimahime pouted, seething with frustration. Knowing she was no match for him, she sulked in the corner, glaring daggers.

"Zixu's here? What's the occasion?" Tagorihime, who had been napping, stirred at the commotion. Upon recognizing Zixu, she shook Tagitsuhimr awake as well.

"I've got a job for you. Free food, free drinks, and you can have as much fun as you want. Interested?" Zixu asked with a grin that feigned innocence.

Ichikishimahime crossed her arms suspiciously. "You? Offering free fun? Ha! No way. You're definitely trying to trick us into hard labor again."

Zixu put on his most sincere expression. "Hey now, I'm being sincere. This is a mutually beneficial, win-win situation!"

Walking over, he slung his arm around Ichikishimahime's shoulders, grinning as if they were the closest of friends.

"So, are you working? Look into my eyes and say it! The Snake Sage never lies to another Snake Sage, right? Why are you avoiding my gaze? You said the Snake Sage doesn't lie to the Snake Sage!" Zixu teased, feigning mock sincerity.

Ichikishimahime scowled, her arms still crossed over her chest. The newly sprouted dragon horns on her forehead trembled slightly with agitation.

"This can't be called work," Zixu insisted with a shameless smile.

Switching to his most persuasive tone, he entered full deception mode. Years of smooth-talking had refined his silver tongue to perfection. His honeyed words left the three serpent Hime dumbfounded.

By the end of it, they somehow concluded that not only would they work for Zixu, but they would also have to pay him for the privilege.

"I'm not a bad person. I won't take your money. We're all friends here," Zixu declared magnanimously.

"Wow... you're so generous... you're the best!" Ichikishimahime was on the verge of tears—grateful yet confused. Something definitely felt off, but she couldn't put her finger on it.

"I'll be leaving now. Don't forget to show up when the time comes," Zixu waved nonchalantly, about to leave.

Then, suddenly remembering Aburame Hatsuizumi's earlier victory, he paused and rushed back to Ichikishimahime.

Without warning, he knocked her lightly on the forehead twice.

"Bye. Just giving you a little pick-me-up. You're welcome."

"Huh? ... ???"

Ichikishimahime was left utterly bewildered, rubbing her forehead with a dumbfounded expression.

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