Chapter 67 : Orochimaru vs Hyuga Shiro

Orochimaru's "Ghost Mode" could be seen as a weaker version of Sato Kamehito's Apex Body Technique.

First and foremost, in its static state, this mode lacks the robust physical defensive capabilities of Sato Kamehito's body. Its purpose is to accelerate the cell and blood metabolism within the body, as well as the flow of chakra. This results in an enhancement of physical function. Built upon this principle, it can elevate mental activity, bolstering resistance and the ability to resist illusions. Except for those wielding the Mangekyō Sharingan and above, genjutsu techniques may have little effect against Orochimaru in this heightened spiritual state.

Nonetheless, the increase in defensive power isn't substantial, and he can still sustain damage during battles.

Nevertheless, Orochimaru will no longer be concerned about getting injured in the future. Possessing formidable self-healing abilities is sufficient.

Secondly, while attacking and manoeuvring, the speed, strength, and reflexes are all significantly amplified. In terms of sheer strength, it strength not quite match up to techniques like the Eight Inner Gates at the same level, but its overall capabilities are more comprehensive.

In truth, maintaining this mode hinges on Orochimaru's spiritual prowess. Through his inhuman control over Chakra, he's able to partially replicate the two attributes of Sato Kamehito's Taijutsu. Concurrently, he enters a heightened sensory state.

This mode's distinct feature is its not just power, but also its flexibility. It lacks any adverse effects, provided one possesses sufficient mental power and Chakra to sustain it.

Unlike the Eight Gates which strives to enhance one's own Chakra, or the Lightning Release Chakra Mode which emphasizes bodily refinement, this approach revolves around Chakra manipulation.

Orochimaru's Chakra began swirling and emanating from all around his form, emitting a shimmering light blue radiance, momentarily elevating the pressure felt by Hyuga Shiro.

"Observe this technique!" Orochimaru's speed resembled that of a spectre, as he employed a sliding step to close the gap in an instant. His surging Chakra even cast an afterimage behind him. Even Hyuga Shiro's Byakugan eyes were momentarily befuddled.

"Boom, boom, boom!"

The two combatants locked horns. Although Orochimaru didn't execute particularly potent techniques, he was able to execute Tsunade's Strong Fist style, and through regular practice, their skills had greatly influenced one another. With his formidable strength, Orochimaru's presence immediately became imposing.

"Why is he so formidable?" Hyuga Shiro was taken aback. Frequently, he found himself in a disadvantageous position, employing Gentle Fist Fist to seal Orochimaru's chakra points. However, Orochimaru's current state wasn't one that could be casually faced against. It seemed that in order to subdue Orochimaru, Hyuga Shiro strength need to employ a complete set of Gentle Fist techniques along with the Sixty-Four Palms technique.

Yet, would Orochimaru provide him that opportunity? Orochimaru would likely interrupt him the moment the fight commenced.

"Boom!" After receiving a couple of blows, a trace of blood trickled from Hyuga Shiro's mouth. It was only then that he realized Orochimaru didn't seem to adhere to his acupoint sealing.

"Damn it!" Hyuga Shiro could only adopt a defensive stance at this point, finding himself in dire straits. How could a ninja of the Hyuga clan tolerate being physically outclassed by an adversary of the same level? The future heir of the Hyuga clan couldn't afford this, especially given Orochimaru's considerable young age.

"Why not?! Stand down!!"

Hyuga was incensed, sensing that the Hyuga family's honour was on the line.

"No matter how formidable I become, I'm still just an ordinary ninja.No, how could I possibly fall short?!"

Hyuga Shiro used his storm-like attack in Orochimaru's direction compelling him to employ his Double Lion Fist technique.

"Boom!"

In the heat of the moment, Orochimaru was struck by the blue Chakra whirlpool, causing him to stagger a few paces backward. Yet, he promptly reoriented himself in his ghostly mode, lowering his center of gravity and surging toward his adversary like an arrow released from a taut bowstring.

"It's astonishing. Hyuga Shiro has actually been suppressed. He's now forced to employ Double Lion Fist to defend himself in close combat. How powerful is this Orochimaru?"

Anbu operatives were stunned. Both Orochimaru and Hyuga Shiro possessed the strength of Jonin-level ninja, meaning they were evenly matched in a direct confrontation.

"This… 'Captain' is truly impressive!"

Even the Instructor Bull couldn't help but fall into silence, his prior turmoil over Orochimaru and Hyuga Shiro's conduct during the test seeming almost trivial. Ultimately, a ninja's credibility hinged on their strength; thus, pointing fingers at geniuses and powerful ninjas was a futile endeavour.

Was Orochimaru a genius? Conceivably so. However, his accomplishments stemmed not only from his innate talent, but from unrelenting effort and countless trials. His confrontation with powerful opponents was proof of his dedication to acquire the Shikotsumyaku kekkei gengai and the Sharingan. He earned his present prowess through sheer tenacity.

"I lag far behind him!" Nightingale muttered to herself, her masked visage a mix of envy, jealousy, and determination. Despite her shrewdness and absence of resentment, she understood that while Orochimaru was powerful, his strength was limited to that of a "Special Jonin." Yet, at this juncture, the lustre of being a Senju and wielding the Wood Release bloodline limit was fading.

"Damn it, these two are freakishly strong!"

Onlookers were flabbergasted. Their surprise wasn't unfounded.

Hyuga Kazuki, likewise, was awestruck by Orochimaru's prowess. He hadn't anticipated his Captain to be such a strong force.

Only Sato Kamehito regarded Orochimaru's physique with a perplexed expression.

"Why... why does it seem somewhat similar to my Apex Body Technique?"

The befuddled Sato Kamehito rubbed his eyes, thoroughly puzzled.

"Observe my technique!" Orochimaru's fervour escalated as the battle raged on. The snake-like eyes gleamed with a bloodthirsty hunger, as if a dormant instinct for slaughter had been awakened within him.

"Don't think you've seen the true extent of my strength. Behold my true power!" An immense chakra radiance coalesced around Hyuga Shiro's hand as he forcefully employed his Double Lion Fist to fend off Orochimaru's advances. Chakra quickly condensed, the brilliance of the light leaving Orochimaru momentarily stunned.

"Damn it! Could it be...!" Orochimaru hastily withdrew, the remnants of a headache causing him to stagger. The intense pain brought sweat to his brow as he forcibly terminated his Ghost Mode.

"Have I hit my limit?" Orochimaru panted, his mental and chakra reserves significantly depleted. The ghost mode was indeed more potent, but its consumption was exorbitant. Despite the abundant chakra, Orochimaru could only maintain it for about a minute, as dictated by his mental endurance. The heightened sensory mode had similar constraints. Without sufficient spiritual power, Orochimaru's physical prowess couldn't outmatch that of Sato Kamehito.

"It appears this technique is life-threatening. It can't be used indiscriminately unless absolutely necessary. The cost is far too great."

Spectators breathed sighs of relief. Although Orochimaru and Hyuga Shiro had their victories and defeats, the outcome appeared to be a stalemate.

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