The Forgemage of Konoha

Exchange

"Thank you for your understanding, Orochimaru-senpai."

Orochimaru gave a thin smile, gesturing for Shirō to continue.

"Its true name is Reinforcement Magic. It's a technique that analyzes the structure of an object and uses Chakra—well, in my case—to complete its flaws or bolster its properties, thereby achieving enhancement. It requires something called magic circuits, which function similarly to chakra pathways."

He hesitated for a brief moment but continued. "Would you like a demonstration, Orochimaru-senpai?"

Shirō had debated whether to mention magic circuits at all. But ultimately, he decided it was safer to be honest.

Orochimaru was a top-level researcher—and not just any researcher. He was a specialist in biology, and among scientists, biologists were often the most unhinged. Not to mention, Orochimaru wasn't the type one could easily deceive for long. Better to tell the truth now, when he was still somewhat sane, than risk suspicion later. Shirō might even earn some goodwill.

Besides, his current strategy was to stay under the radar. If Orochimaru's descent into darkness happened before the Third Shinobi World War—unlike in the original timeline—Shirō would be in serious trouble. He couldn't afford to gamble on that.

"Hmm... Just as I suspected," Orochimaru murmured.

"What do you mean, Orochimaru-senpai?"

"I've been watching your... Ninjutsu—though I suppose 'magic' is more accurate. Your techniques clearly belong to a different system. The chakra sensitivity required is immense, and you're not a sensory type. That led me to some interesting theories."

He leaned forward with interest. "Magic circuits, is it? Fascinating. I assume you have more to show me, Shirō-kun?"

"I do, Orochimaru-senpai. The next one is Projection Magic. This one's a bit more unique."

"Oh? Then I look forward to seeing it," Orochimaru said, narrowing his eyes with interest.

"Projection Magic allows one to manifest a construct—a temporary replica—based on an archetype. It creates an imitation by projecting a lost form from the user's memory or soul. Typically, the projection is only a shell: temporary, fragile, and energy-consuming. If the user's image of the item is incomplete, it will dissipate even faster. But due to a special inheritance I received, I can replicate an item with about 40% of the original's power. As my proficiency increases, so does that percentage."

Of course, Shirō kept certain truths hidden. He didn't mention the capacity to simulate combat experience or project Noble Phantasms. Not that Orochimaru would understand the concept of Noble Phantasms anyway.

More importantly, Projection Magic in general isn't powerful—it's Emiya Shirou's Projection that defies the rules.

> Projection (Gradation Air): A technique that constructs temporary copies using magical energy. Most users can only replicate an object's appearance, not its function. For example, a projected sword may break easily or lack cutting power. Shirou, however, could replicate the functionality and structural composition of weapons with astonishing accuracy, though only with swords. Even then, modern firearms, armor, and other complex devices were either impossible or extremely costly to project.

Shirō lacked that restriction. But since he hadn't analyzed any modern weapons, he couldn't project them—yet.

"I see…" Orochimaru said thoughtfully. "Then forgive the impudence of my next request—would Shirō-kun allow me a small blood sample?"

Shirō froze slightly.

So he was already beginning his experiments.

Orochimaru noticed his hesitation and backed off instantly. "Never mind. If Shirō-kun is unwilling, then please forget I asked."

"…No, it's alright," Shirō said, after a pause. He extended his arm. "Go ahead."

He understood Orochimaru's type. If he wanted blood, he'd get it one way or another. The fact that he asked showed a rare measure of respect.

Orochimaru smiled. "Thank you for your trust, Shirō-kun. I will repay it."

He carefully extracted the blood and sealed it using a Fūinjutsu tag. Then, after summoning the others back into the room, Tsunade burst in, her eyes sharp.

"Orochimaru! You didn't threaten him, did you?"

Clearly, Kushina had been voicing her concerns outside. Shirō felt a warm twinge of gratitude.

"It's fine, Tsunade-nee. Orochimaru-senpai didn't pressure me. In fact, he even offered to help me with the Ryūchi Cave trial."

That surprised everyone—especially Tsunade and Jiraiya—but they didn't press the issue, trusting Shirō's judgment.

As the gathering relaxed, the tension lifted. Since Tsunade and the others were headed to the front lines the next morning, they avoided drinking too much—except for Kushina, who was proudly introducing Shirō as her junior while drinking enough for everyone.

Minato, ever the composed one, tried—and failed—to stop her.

Despite her status as a Jinchūriki, Kushina didn't have many close friends. Her movements were restricted, and between missions and surveillance, she didn't get to bond with others often.

Shirō understood that. And clearly, so did Orochimaru—because if the so-called "Cold King" was negotiating, it meant Kushina's opinion carried weight.

The gathering finally ended late into the night.

As they stepped out of the restaurant, Minato—supporting a very drunk Kushina—turned to Shirō apologetically.

"Sorry to keep you so late, Shirō. Kushina can't walk straight, and we're heading in the opposite direction from your place. I don't think I can escort you tonight."

"No need to worry, Minato-senpai—"

"I'll walk Shirō-kun back," Orochimaru interrupted. "You need rest. You're leaving for the battlefield tomorrow, after all."

"…No objection here," Shirō said.

"Then see you tomorrow, Shirō."

"Good night, Minato-senpai."

After exchanging farewells with Tsunade and Jiraiya, Shirō left with Orochimaru. To his surprise, Orochimaru didn't speak at all on the way back—just quietly escorted him, as promised.

As they reached Shirō's door, Orochimaru finally spoke: "Prepare yourself. The Ryūchi Cave trial will begin once the war ends."

"…Understood."

He entered his home, mind racing.

Why was Orochimaru going this far for him?

Just showing off a different chakra system shouldn't warrant access to something like the Ryūchi Cave contract.

Shirō couldn't figure it out, so he chose not to dwell on it. Knowing wouldn't help—not right now.

He couldn't beat Orochimaru. So what would knowing change?

Only strength could decide his path.

What he didn't know was that Orochimaru had received a private message from the White Snake Sage. The sage had instructed him to observe Shirō closely. If Orochimaru deemed him worthy, he should be allowed to undertake the trial.

Orochimaru didn't question the Sage's intentions—not yet. These ancient beings were far too cunning. But he understood one thing: the final decision still rested with him.

That meant Shirō wasn't a chosen pawn. He was just... interesting.

His system of knowledge intrigued Orochimaru, and the Ryūchi Cave trial would reveal if he was worthy of more.

After all, if the White Snake Sage truly wanted Shirō to sign the contract, there wouldn't be a trial.

No, this was a test of both value and will.

Meanwhile, inside his room, Shirō opened a storage scroll Tsunade had given him.

"Release."

Poof!

A black bow appeared.

It was clearly custom-made to his size and build—no doubt Kushina had asked Tsunade to have it crafted.

He hadn't expected her to remember his idle talk about becoming an Archer.

Shirō's eyes softened. His resolve quietly solidified.

He gripped the bow tightly.

He'd already ordered arrows and a quiver. Now, only one problem remained:

He didn't actually know how to use a bow.