The scene in Konoha's interrogation room was one of controlled chaos. Morino Ibiki had witnessed countless interrogations as the head of Konoha's Torture and Interrogation Force. He had seen prisoners break down, soil themselves, scream for mercy, and even lose their sanity under the relentless pressure of torture.
Danzo's current state mirrored those who had lost their minds under such duress. His vacant eyes and incoherent mutterings were classic symptoms of a mental breakdown. Shikaku Nara observed quietly, deep in thought, saying nothing.
Inoichi Yamanaka scoffed at the display, signaling to the ANBU members, "Regardless of whether he's truly lost his mind or not, we must act quickly. Bring Danzo to the intelligence division immediately."
The ANBU members hesitated. Just as Inoichi was about to urge them again, a withered hand clamped down on his shoulder.
"Inoichi, Danzo has done much for Konoha. Despite his crimes, his contributions to the village are undeniable. His current state is punishment enough," Hiruzen Sarutobi said, his voice steady.
"But, Hokage-sama, Danzo..." Inoichi began.
"I understand your concerns," Hiruzen interrupted, replacing his pipe thoughtfully. "Danzo might be faking this insanity. Let's have medical ninjas examine him first. Once we have their diagnosis, we can proceed accordingly. That's my decision."
Without waiting for further discussion, Hiruzen signaled the ANBU, who immediately moved to secure Danzo. "Take Danzo to the hospital. Ensure he is guarded around the clock. No one is to approach him without my direct orders. Any negligence will be met with severe consequences."
"Yes, Hokage-sama!" the ANBU responded in unison.
With that, Hiruzen Sarutobi left, his mind already planning the next steps to safeguard Konoha.
"Shikaku, what's going on? Why is the Hokage acting so strangely?" Inoichi whispered urgently.
Shikaku sighed deeply. "There are things at play here beyond our understanding. Let's wait for Danzo's medical results before drawing any conclusions. Some matters are beyond our current influence."
Inoichi could only nod in agreement, feeling the weight of the unseen complexities.
---
Meanwhile, in the Land of Fields, at Orochimaru's secret base:
"Fascinating... absolutely fascinating..." Orochimaru mused, washing the blood from his hands. He donned his Akatsuki cloak, the red clouds stark against the black fabric, and adjusted his reflection in the mirror, a satisfied smirk playing on his lips.
Kabuto Yakushi entered the room. "Orochimaru-sama, you seem unusually pleased today."
Orochimaru turned, mildly surprised. "Kabuto, I didn't summon you. Why aren't you in Konoha gathering intelligence? What brings you here?"
"Konoha is in turmoil. There's been a significant development," Kabuto reported.
"Oh?" Orochimaru's interest was piqued. "That peaceful village, experiencing something noteworthy? Speak quickly, Kabuto. I have urgent business."
"Where are you going, Orochimaru-sama?"
"Ha ha... to claim what is mine. Uchiha Itachi's eyes..."
"Itachi? But he is formidable. Shouldn't you bring more assistance?"
"Very well, you may accompany me. But do not interfere with my plans. Now, tell me what's happening in Konoha as we travel."
"As you wish, Orochimaru-sama. Danzo has been captured. His Sharingan arm is nearly destroyed. Additionally, a new Uchiha has emerged, capable of using Susanoo."
"!!!" Orochimaru was stunned by the revelations. The capture of his ally Danzo was a significant blow to his network within Konoha. But the existence of another Uchiha with such power was even more astonishing.
"Who is this Uchiha? Is it Sasuke?"
"No, it's a man named Uchiha Natsuhane."
"Natsuhane? Who is he?" Orochimaru was intrigued. He prided himself on his extensive knowledge of noteworthy shinobi, especially those from the Uchiha clan. Yet this name was unfamiliar.
"Kabuto, what do you know about him?"
"Not much, Orochimaru-sama. His history is remarkably dull. After the clan massacre, he married over a thousand women and has been focused on fathering as many children as possible. It's said he survived the massacre because he was... elsewhere, engaging in an affair."
"Ha, what a boring existence. Such a man... why does he matter?"
"Let's hurry. Once I have Itachi's eyes, you can tell me more about this Natsuhane."
"Yes, Orochimaru-sama."
---
At dawn, Uchiha Itachi descended a long staircase, his expression stoic. Walking towards him with a purposeful stride was Orochimaru, his eyes gleaming with intent.
As they crossed paths, Orochimaru couldn't contain his excitement any longer. "Hissss..."
A dark serpent slithered from Orochimaru's sleeve, wrapping tightly around Itachi's body. Itachi's expression remained impassive, showing a trace of annoyance rather than fear.
Orochimaru's voice was filled with unrestrained glee. "Itachi, do you know what eternal life means? I need your body to achieve it. Give yourself to me..."
Itachi, bound tightly, exhaled slowly. "Desire is a dangerous thing, Orochimaru. You must learn to control it."
Orochimaru's laughter was cut short as the illusion shattered. Itachi stood behind him, unharmed, while Orochimaru found himself immobilized, unable to move.
"What... how?" Orochimaru gasped, realizing he had fallen into Itachi's genjutsu.
"Such powerful eyes, Itachi. You truly are magnificent," Orochimaru whispered, admiration mingled with frustration.