Chapter 138:
Hanzo of the Salamander, the demigod of the ninja world.
After the deaths of the First Hokage and Uchiha Madara, he was regarded as one of the strongest shinobi alive, standing at the pinnacle of the ninja world.
Orochimaru had thoroughly analyzed Hanzo's strength based on the intelligence he had gathered. Hanzo wasn't just a legend in the memories of his past life, his power was very real. Orochimaru was certain that even Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Third Hokage, might struggle against him in a direct fight.
A person acknowledged by the Five Great Nations and given the title of "demigod" had to be much stronger than your average Kage-level ninja. At this point in time, Hanzo was likely at his peak, comparable to the likes of the Third Raikage. Though their combat styles differed, their destructive power was undoubtedly on the same level.
Facing such a formidable enemy stirred excitement in Orochimaru. This was the first truly powerful opponent he had encountered since arriving in this world.
Orochimaru had approached this war with a certain ease. Under normal circumstances, he didn't even need to engage directly in battle. He could simply issue weapons and orders from a distance. His last fight was only because they had been nearby when Hyuga Ryuichi and his squad sent out a distress signal.
But this time...
"Here, take these antidotes," Tsunade said as they ran, pulling out two portable syringes from her ninja pouch. She handed one each to Jiraiya and Orochimaru. "I've made a temporary antidote based on the toxins extracted from previous victims of Hanzo."
The syringes looked like small test tubes with needles sealed by transparent caps, ready to be used at a moment's notice.