Preparations

Shino was deep in thought as he worked in his secret underground lab. His research had led him to experiment with the conversion of other species into creatures he could control with his zerg powers.

As the progress for unlocking new zergs rose, the quest for new gene strands to boost the unlocking process had become increasingly difficult, leading to Shino finding himself in a standstill, stuck with his initial zerg, the drone.

With this road block, Shino knew that the unlocking of the creation interface was still a long way off, but time was of the essence for Shino. He knew that he couldn't simply wait around for new zergs to appear out of thin air. He needed to find a way to expand his arsenal, and fast.

Naturally, this wasn't something that could be done in a short period of time. So, he focused most of his research on things that would have a quicker result and come in handy in the upcoming battle, the neural parasite.

Not only was this research important for his personal goals, but it was also crucial for the success of Project Queen.

As he delved deeper into his research, Shino relied on Alina's assistance to help him organize, analyze and search through his extensive database.

With her advanced computing capabilities, Alina handled the heavy-duty calculations required for his work, freeing up Shino to focus on the more complex and creative aspects of his research.

As an advanced agile AI system, Alina propelled Shino's research direction to new heights, unveiling a world of possibilities with new techniques and strategies that he never thought possible.

"Alina, please give me the current status on the neural implant experiment," Shino requested.

[Analyzing results… Overmind, there has been successful implantation in several small species, but further testing is needed to determine the full extent of control you have over them.]

With a nod of satisfaction, Shino felt a glimmer of excitement as he reviewed his progress.

Utilizing the vast resources of Alina's database, he had gained an intimate understanding of the intricate biology of various parasites.

Using this knowledge, he turned his attention to his own neural parasite, determined to transform it into a sustainable unit capable of complete control over its host.

As he delved deeper into the complexities of the neural parasite, Shino grappled with two crucial issues: its limited lifespan and its invasion strength.

For weeks, he had been tirelessly researching and experimenting, slowly but surely inching towards a solution that would revolutionize his parasitic manipulation – and finally, he had achieved some results.

After experimenting on the two loose ends from Karin's team, he learned through Alina's estimate that he had been able to increase the retention rate of his neural parasite by almost 50%. This breakthrough meant that his control over his hosts was now 50% more effective in terms of both strength and duration.

However, the success rate was based on normal humans and genins, as obtaining chunin and jonin subjects was proving to be a challenge. But based on existing data, Alina had estimated at least a 50% reduction in effectiveness for each increasing rank of power.

In conclusion, Shino had managed to extend the effective control time of his neural parasite on genins and below from 30 to 45 minutes, a significant improvement that could prove invaluable in future missions.

Fifteen extra minutes may not seem like a lot, but it can be the difference between letting the target break free from his control and successfully injecting another neural parasite into the target to achieve continuous control.

As Shino worked tirelessly in his secluded laboratory, he heard a soft voice behind him. "Overmind, how's the experiment going?"

The voice belonged to none other than Karin, who had been staying with him at the base.

Shino turned around to see Karin standing behind him, a curious expression on her face as she observed his experiments. He had found her to be a much more interesting and intelligent woman than he originally expected.

Beneath her unassuming exterior lay a sharp and cunning mind. In fact, she had accomplished what only a select few could achieve at her age - completing the first chunin exam sheet without resorting to cheating!

Such intelligence was a force to be reckoned with, and one that should not be underestimated.

Over the course of her stay at his base, she had been intrigued by his research and began reading through the biology books on snakes he had kept in the base – a smokescreen for invaders. To Shino's amazement, he discovered that she had an innate talent for the field at hand.

Using his bugs and ink, Shino had Alina print a copy of some of the biology knowledge from his extensive knowledge database onto physical scrolls for her.

After weeks, she was already able to dabble in his research. Albeit young, he still valued her input in his work as she could offer her own unique perspective and insights. She had proved to be a valuable asset in his quest for greater understanding of the neural parasites.

"The experiment is going well, Karin," Shino replied. "We have successfully transplanted the parasite into some species and achieved initial control, but there is still much to be done."

Karin nodded, her eyes scanning the lab as she took in the equipment and the various specimens. "It's incredible what you've been able to achieve, Overmind. Just tell me where you need my help."

Shino smiled, appreciating the offer. He could tell she was really passionate about his research and she wasn't led astray by her emotions. "Thank you, Karin. I'm glad to have you here to help me with this."

Karin blushed, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. As they continued to get along, she had secretly fallen deeper for this young man, admiring his dedication and intelligence more and more. "I'm happy to be here, Overmind. Is there anything you need to use me for?"

Shino paused, passing the query to Alina. Not long later, the optimal experiment was assigned to the young lad. "Actually, yes. I need you to verify the effects that your blood has on the growth of the neural parasite again. I'm sure you know your own limits, but I'll remind again, do it in moderation. Don't harm yourself badly again."

Karin nodded, a sweet feeling arising in her heart as she recalled the young man's worried face when he discovered her intentional self harm. However, she hid this in her heart and stepped forward, eager to assist in any way she could.

She leaned closer to Shino, her eyes scanning the data readouts that filled the lab and secretly stealing glances at the young man's handsome profile. "What do you need me to do?"

"The usual, but with a few modifications."

Shino explained his established analysis plan to Karin, and the two of them began working together to interpret the results of the implantation experiments.

Karin naturally drew blood from her own arm and familiarly injecting them into the neural parasites on the petri dishes. She then added the unknown mass of purplish biological substance called the creep.

Carefully controlling the volume of both her blood and biomass, she tried to find the correct balance that could let the parasite thrive.

After her routine with the parasites, Karin approached the nearby cages with a devious glint in her eye. Inside, innocent-looking creatures awaited their fate. She injected them with a concoction of her blood and parasites, watching as their bodies twisted and writhed in response.

Suddenly, one of the creature's body began to deform, distorting and morphing into an unrecognizable shape...

"Experiment #23 has shown signs of out-of-control, requesting disposal."

Karin's voice was emotionless as she issued the order. Following her voice, a purplish slime flowed out from a pipe embedded in the lab wall and devoured the creature in a frenzy. Moments later, the cage was left spotless, as if nothing had ever been there.

Not far from Karin, Shino glanced over with a slight smile before refocusing on his own experiment. He was going through a similar process, but with his own blood and the many spare blood samples he had collected, mainly Aburame clan blood.

As they worked, they occasionally took breaks to bond as they talked about their past experiences and shared their thoughts and ideas about the future.

At first, their ideas differ as expected, but over the course of the month, their ideas for the future began to become more and more similar. It seemed one had conformed to the ideas of the other, as if one had become an extension of the other.

Shino kept this in his heart and couldn't help but sigh for this silly girl.

Shino couldn't help but notice how beautiful Karin looked as she worked, her eyes focused on the data in front of her. He couldn't deny the attraction he felt towards her after just nearly a month of getting along, especially since she was one of the few who didn't interrupt his speech.

Unlike many of the young girls in Konoha who had grown up in a more peaceful environment, Karin was raised in difficult times – growing into a girl with a fierce determination and attentiveness to those around her, willing to sacrifice her all to reach her goal – previously to survive, but now...

Shino wasn't a block of wood, and it was clear to him that his hero plan had succeeded. Now, he had to bear the weight of playing with the other's emotions. However, her careful thoughts and attention to him certainly raised his affection.

But he knew that his plans was his top priority, and he couldn't let his personal feelings get in the way.

As the night wore on, Shino and Karin continued to work, deep in thought and discussion. They made significant progress on the analysis and were pleased with the results.

Softly humming happily to herself, Karin left the lab after an exhausting day of research.

Shino adjusted his glasses as his eyes followed his jovial assistance until her footsteps faded away. He certainly enjoyed his time with her, but…

[Overmind. Project Queen implementation has been completed. Initiate Project Queen?]

It seems time wasn't on her side.

However, Shino decided to delay the plan for a couple of days, "Schedule the plan for after."

After all, there is now a more important event he had to focus on.

Sitting down with a composed demeanor, his consciousness left, returning the lab to its usual quiet ambiance.

On the return journey through the vast and intricate Zerg Network, his consciousness seemed to expand beyond its usual boundaries, perceiving the bugs he had sent out to monitor Konoha. In mere moments, a wealth of information seemed to have flooded his mind...

With the arrival of many merchants, ninjas, civilians, and diplomats, a festive atmosphere had settled on Konoha. Some ninjas celebrated together, carefree and drunk, while others roam alone.

The air in Konoha was electric, charged with festivity as merchants, ninjas, civilians, and diplomats alike flocked to the village. Amidst the merrymaking and revelry, some ninjas celebrated and drank together, while others wandered the streets alone, lost in their own thoughts.

A certain boy in an orange jumpsuit was roaming through the festive streets, internally troubled by his encounter with a fellow monster.

Meanwhile, the object of his turmoil lurked on a rooftop, gazing pensively at the moon.

And for some, the festivities held no appeal, as they hunkered down indoors to prepare for the challenges of the coming days, whether they be virtuous or nefarious.

"It's tomorrow isn't it?"