Chapter 189: Secret of Ashura
The "Dragon Vein" is a radiant and powerful force, potent enough to forge a Zanpakutō on its own. Naruto had successfully done this once before, so attempting it again wasn't too difficult. However, issues still arose.
Unlike a standard 'Asauchi,' this newly forged blade was entirely purple, with a perfectly circular guard adorned with intricate dragon-like patterns along its edges. This sword didn't require 'Shikai' to unleash its power; it already contained immense strength.
When Naruto gripped it, a vast amount of spiritual energy surged forth, merging into the sword. It absorbed not only spiritual energy but also a portion of his life force.
"Engrave time, Dragon Vein," he chanted, releasing its power.
A circle of translucent purple energy spread out from the sword, extending across the laboratory and enveloping most of Sound Village. Yet, on the surface, nothing remarkable seemed to happen. Time itself didn't appear to change.
"Has the sword already taken effect?" the two Nine-Tails wondered, scanning their surroundings but sensing no impact on themselves.
"Did it fail because the materials were too limited?" Orochimaru speculated.
Naruto shook his head and pointed the sword at Orochimaru. Suddenly, Orochimaru's body jerked unnaturally, and he muttered two garbled, distorted syllables as his furrowed brows forcibly relaxed. It felt as if he were being "rewound."
Orochimaru was astonished, his mouth agape in disbelief.