Ye Zi arrived at Orochimaru's private laboratory, where a lifeless clone lay on a central platform.
Having these clones greatly simplified live experiments for Orochimaru, though using them as experimental subjects introduced some variability.
Due to the clones possessing Hashirama cells, their physical constitution differed significantly from regular individuals, leading to non-standardized data.
For example, combining Sage Chakra with the Cursed Seal had low survival rates in practice, similar to the implantation of Hashirama cells. However, when tested on the clones, the survival rates were remarkably high.
After months of research, Orochimaru had succeeded in applying his findings to the clones.
"You've mastered Sage Mode?" Ye Zi's first question upon entering the lab caught Orochimaru's attention.
A sly, sinister smile appeared on Orochimaru's face as he replied, "Yes, but it's far from perfect."
Over the past three months, Orochimaru had not only made breakthroughs in his research but had also managed to grasp Sage Mode. However, compared to Ye Zi's perfect mastery, his was far inferior, his transformation showed evident signs of snake-like features.
Given his prior body modifications, Orochimaru found these snake-like traits more fitting and desirable.
Ye Zi raised an eyebrow, impressed that Orochimaru had found time to train in Sage Mode while conducting his experiments.
Turning his attention to the clone on the platform, he asked, "How are the results?"
Orochimaru's eyes gleamed with enthusiasm as he responded, "Once the Cursed Seal is implanted, the subject can activate an incomplete Sage Mode, resembling Jūgo's transformation. However, they won't lose control. In this state, strength, speed, and chakra levels increase significantly."
Unmoved by the benefits Orochimaru listed, Ye Zi calmly inquired, "What about the drawbacks?"
"Much like Hashirama cell implantation, the survival rate is low," Orochimaru admitted with a chilling smile.
"So survival rates remain an unavoidable risk," Ye Zi sighed. Without this limitation the Cursed Seal, or even Hashirama cell implantation, could have already been applied to his operatives.
"The Cursed Seal can be implanted after Hashirama cells," Orochimaru suggested. "With Hashirama cells present, the survival rate for the Cursed Seal increases substantially."
This suggestion sparked Ye Zi's contemplation. If so, then advancing Hashirama cell implantation earlier could give the subjects more time to adapt.
"Show me the results," Ye Zi finally said.
Orochimaru turned to the clone on the platform and commanded, "Activate the Cursed Seal."
The clone, lifeless and obedient as a puppet, rose from the table. Black flame-like marks began spreading across its pale body, covering a significant portion of its skin.
"So this is the Cursed Seal," Ye Zi murmured, studying the intricate flame-like markings. He could sense the clone's chakra levels rising noticeably.
Detecting Ye Zi's silent curiosity, Orochimaru added, "Activate the second stage."
At his command, the black flames transformed, glowing faintly red as they expanded and fused, enveloping the clone's entire body. Its arms swelled and grew blade-like appendages, resembling Jūgo's berserk form.
Ye Zi observed the transformation with a composed expression, though inwardly he was impressed. The clone's chakra levels had risen even further.
"Impressive," he said sincerely.
Orochimaru's tone turned cold as he explained, "Despite the benefits, the Cursed Seal invades the host's body over time. However, with Hashirama cells, this side effect can be mitigated."
Hashirama's cells proved invaluable once again, not only for their ability to augment jutsu but also for their versatility in addressing these challenges.
As Orochimaru finished speaking, the clone reverted to its original state. Its pale skin now bore faint scars, remnants of the transformation.
"Teach me the method," Ye Zi requested.
Seeing the Cursed Seal's potential solidified Ye Zi's decision to implement it on his recruits. Combined with Hashirama cells, the resulting power boost would elevate their capabilities to at least upper jonin level.
Orochimaru made no effort to withhold the information, explaining the Cursed Seal's principles and application process in detail.
At its core, the Cursed Seal incorporated elements of sealing techniques. Ye Zi, already proficient in such techniques, quickly grasped the concepts Orochimaru shared.
With the knowledge in hand, Ye Zi's first thought was to implant the Cursed Seal into Uchiha Jin to enhance his strength.
"You could also infuse your Sage Chakra into the seal," Orochimaru added with a sly grin.
Ye Zi nodded slightly and asked, "Now that the results of the Cursed Seal are out, what are your plans?"
"To continue researching Hashirama cells," Orochimaru replied.
"Then work with Nanako on improving the success rate of Hashirama cell implantation," Ye Zi said decisively.
Orochimaru fell silent at this, contemplating whether to dedicate his energy to such a task.
The information he had learned from Ye Zi had opened up a plethora of intriguing possibilities. If it weren't for the inherent risks, he would have already implanted Hashirama cells into his own body.
Considering this, investing time and effort into increasing the success rate seemed beneficial. After all, he desired those cells for himself.
After a moment of contemplation, Orochimaru nodded. "Alright."
Seeing Orochimaru agree, Ye Zi was quietly pleased. With Orochimaru's expertise, there might be significant progress within half a year. If the success rate improved, the children at the base could immediately undergo Hashirama cell implantation, followed by the Cursed Seal. In no time, this would create a formidable fighting force.
The only uncertainty was how many would survive. Following the successful implantation of Hashirama cells and the Cursed Seal, the next step would be Sharingan transplantation. Though that would require acquiring more Sharingan through less-than-honorable means.
After finalizing these matters with Orochimaru, Ye Zi left the lab. His next plan was to implant the Cursed Seal into Shin, but not without his consent.
It didn't take long for Ye Zi to find Shin and explain the advantages and disadvantages of the Cursed Seal in detail, omitting nothing.
After listening to Ye Zi's explanation, Shin fell into deep thought.
Ye Zi wasn't in a hurry. He patiently waited for Shin's decision.
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