014 The Potential of the Breathing Technique

Teach Yamato the breathing technique? Orochimaru pondered this, then inserted two needles into Yamato’s body. He worked through the night again, producing another vial of perfect genetic medicine.

The Lamp Spirit was presently occupied updating the system and unable to forcibly seize control of his body, so matters involving him could be postponed. Orochimaru’s priority was to use Yamato’s newly obtained cells to strengthen his own vitality, thereby acquiring Wood Release.

Orochimaru shook the pale green solution, bringing the transparent vial to his lips and drinking it in one gulp. The cool, viscous liquid slid down his throat, into his esophagus, spreading from his stomach to every cell in his body.

He closed his eyes, stabilizing his breath into a fixed rhythm. In his mind, a map composed of capillaries and neural networks slowly unfolded. With this map, he could easily track the flow of the medicine and observe its effects.

After a moment, Orochimaru opened his eyes, a trace of delight flickering across his brow. The Lamp Spirit himself wasn’t impressive, but the breathing technique he imparted turned out to be more effective than expected, with much untapped potential.

Regrettably, perhaps due to drug resistance or perhaps because of the Lamp Spirit’s so-called passive skill, Orochimaru felt nothing this time. He couldn’t even determine if he had acquired any passive abilities. Relying solely on Yamato’s cells to enhance himself and gain Wood Release seemed unlikely.

His mind raced, and soon he found another method. He mixed Yamato’s cells with those of the First Hokage, controlling the ratio so that Yamato’s cells could neutralize and suppress the overwhelming vitality of the First’s cells.

The two had similar properties, so this process did not take much time. Orochimaru successfully obtained a mixed solution of both. Yet, trouble arose in the second phase: when he supplied enough culture medium to the First Hokage’s cells, they proliferated massively, suppressing and even assimilating Yamato’s cells.

The experiment stalled again.

Supporting his chin with one hand, Orochimaru fell into deep thought. Creating genetic medicine from the First’s cells now seemed impossible; their vitality was the core issue, and no solution had been found. Direct transplantation could also strengthen the body, but according to Danzo’s experimental records, Yamato’s cells were less effective than genetic medicine. Direct transplantation of the First’s cells, however, was too risky.

Orochimaru licked his lips. “Actually, it’s possible to enhance Yamato’s development of the First’s cells, then use him to make genetic medicine.” This was the safest approach, albeit the most time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Orochimaru contemplated for a moment, then settled on a plan. He would combine Yamato-brand genetic medicine with direct transplantation of the First Hokage’s cells to balance the two approaches.

...

A day later, in the forests of Konoha.

Two figures, one leading the other, leaped from the trees and landed at the center of the training field. Kakashi and Guy, who had been sparring there, quickly ceased their actions and saluted the first arrival. “Lord Orochimaru!”

Orochimaru sized up the two, still slightly breathless, and nodded inwardly. He had come to fulfill his earlier promise: to teach the breathing technique.

The two before him—one the son of White Fang, whose talent was obvious; the other had achieved success in the Eight Gates technique, promising for the future—were both excellent candidates, perfect for testing his improved breathing method.

“Excellent, you came as agreed,” Orochimaru said directly. “This is Yamato; he will join you in learning ninjutsu...”

“Wait, Lord Orochimaru,” Kakashi suddenly interrupted, cutting short Orochimaru’s introduction.

The smile on Orochimaru’s face did not fade, but his gaze darkened. “Kakashi, what is it?”

“Lord Orochimaru, we’ve heard the recent rumors circulating in the village,” Kakashi met Orochimaru’s gaze without flinching. “They say your injuries were sustained fighting the mastermind behind the Nine-Tails incident.”

Orochimaru’s eyebrows rose. “That’s true enough. Is there a problem?”

Kakashi’s expression was grave. “Lord Orochimaru, what are your intentions? Unless you tell us your purpose, we won’t accept your silence.”

In truth, Kakashi didn’t care what Orochimaru’s intentions were, but the current village discourse displeased him, especially the comparisons between the Fourth Hokage and the Legendary Sannin. His teacher sacrificed himself to protect the village; he should not be disparaged because of a deception.

Guy echoed him, “Yes, Orochimaru-sensei, you must explain this matter.”

Orochimaru glanced at Kakashi’s earnest demeanor and understood his motive. He chuckled softly. “That was the Third Hokage’s idea, to boost morale. If you don’t believe me, ask him directly.”

The Lamp Spirit had told him before—the blame could be shifted onto the Third Hokage, since he was indeed responsible.

“This...”

Kakashi and Guy were speechless. To question the Hokage—how could they do that?

“These political matters aren’t worth discussing,” Orochimaru licked his lips. “Let’s continue with ninjutsu training.”

Kakashi and Guy exchanged helpless glances, but soon their attention was captivated by the remarkable taijutsu techniques at their ears.

Orochimaru was pleased with their focus and continued his explanation.

Water Breathing, as shown by the Lamp Spirit, appeared to be just a skill. Orochimaru, however, saw it as threefold: the breathing technique to enhance physical condition, a complete sword style, and special markings to commune with nature.

Of these, the sword style was of limited use. Ninjas relied on ninjutsu, projectiles, and taijutsu, not the “overwhelming force” approach of swordsmanship. The markings were similar to the Eight Gates technique: once activated, before the mind was erased by nature, they granted only a single powerful strike.

What truly held value was the breathing technique. It elevated physical ability from within, and once stabilized, could unconsciously absorb natural energy, further strengthening the body. Though inefficient, it was safe and reliable.

Orochimaru’s gaze swept over the three in the training field, pausing briefly on Kakashi. Kakashi had the greatest talent, but in terms of breathing technique, Orochimaru favored the other two.

Guy had trained in the Eight Gates, honing his body from the outside in; the breathing technique compensated for his internal weaknesses, making him even stronger.

Yamato possessed the First Hokage’s cells, and the “God of Shinobi” was also a sage able to use natural energy. Orochimaru believed that the Lamp Spirit’s method for absorbing natural energy in a stable state might ultimately suit Yamato best.

Yet for now, Kakashi was an excellent assistant. His insight was unmatched, grasping theoretical concepts quickly; with him as the brain, much effort could be saved.

Orochimaru guided the three through the breathing technique once, then said, “From now on, practice repeatedly. Until your breathing becomes habitual, support each other.”

“Yes!” Guy, Yamato, and Kakashi exchanged glances and nodded in agreement.