In a large cave, several figures quietly remained inside.
This was the Akatsuki organization. Although not many people had the privilege of being here, any one of them was a top-tier force in the ninja world.
For instance, a pale-skinned, eerily handsome man with snake-like eyes.
This man was none other than the infamous and powerful ninja, one of the Legendary Sannin, Orochimaru!
Currently, the Akatsuki's plans were still in the first phase, focusing on laying low and growing stronger, far from the stage where they would start capturing the tailed beasts.
So, at this point, the Akatsuki was not yet the terrifying organization known as the top in the ninja world but was still functioning as a mercenary group.
As a mercenary group, of course, the Akatsuki couldn't be unknown.
Otherwise, who would hire them?
For instance, today, a commission had arrived for the Akatsuki!
"Orochimaru, the client specifically requested you for this mission," said Pain, his Rinnegan eyes focusing on Orochimaru after they had discussed the Akatsuki's recent developments.
"Oh?" Orochimaru's brows furrowed slightly upon hearing this, clearly displeased.
As a dedicated scientist, Orochimaru preferred to spend his free time on his research.
Studying science, experimenting with forbidden jutsu—weren't those more satisfying?
Going out to fight, especially for a mission with no personal gain?
That seemed like a waste of time.
However, he was currently a member of the Akatsuki, and more importantly, Pain's power far surpassed his own...
"What's the mission?" Despite his reluctance, Orochimaru's smooth, magnetic voice asked the question.
"It's from Danzo of the Hidden Leaf Village. The mission is simple: eliminate Uchiha Akira on his way back to the village after the Chunin Exams," Pain explained concisely, outlining the mission to Orochimaru.
Initially, Orochimaru was displeased about being personally assigned a mission.
But as he listened, his eyes began to gleam!
His mind flashed back to when he was still in the Hidden Leaf Village, secretly watching Uchiha Itachi's intense training, bordering on suicidal.
The allure of the Sharingan's power had become almost an obsession for Orochimaru!
Recently, rumors from the Hidden Leaf spoke of a new Uchiha prodigy—a boy who awakened the two-tomoe Sharingan at just six years old!
Who would have thought that Danzo would target him?
It's so typical of Danzo's style!
But...
A slow smile crept across Orochimaru's face. Targeting a super genius from the Uchiha clan? And with detailed information about the team? This was going to be interesting!
"Rest assured, I'll take care of this mission!" Orochimaru said with a magnetic voice full of barely concealed excitement.
At first, he had refused the mission, but after hearing the details, he couldn't resist the temptation!
Moreover, the mission involved Might Guy leading Uchiha Akira and three other Genin?
Orochimaru remembered Might Guy quite well.
After all, it's hard not to notice someone so unique!
...
Danzo wouldn't personally take action against him, but hiring the Akatsuki, and specifically requesting Orochimaru, to eliminate him?
Uchiha Akira had no idea about this development!
At this moment, Uchiha Akira and his team were still standing at the entrance of the Hidden Cloud Village.
The arrogant young Thunder Ninja had been defeated in just a few seconds!
Though not in mortal danger, his injuries were severe!
"As expected of the Hidden Cloud Village, known throughout the ninja world for their ninja combat techniques. They're like magical warriors, perfectly merging magical power and physical strength. Truly formidable!" Uchiha Akira silently marveled as he observed the injured ninja with his Sharingan.
He was well aware that his current strength was at the Chunin level.
Even though his Great Fireball Jutsu hit its mark, it didn't manage to kill the opponent?
The ninja combat techniques of the Hidden Cloud truly enhance strength, defense, and speed across the board!
Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!
As Uchiha Akira was deep in thought, several more Hidden Cloud ninjas suddenly appeared, their expressions hostile as they glared at him and his team.
The commotion had naturally attracted attention from the Hidden Cloud Village.
Or more accurately, there had already been Hidden Cloud ninjas keeping an eye on them.
They just hadn't expected that the youngest, Uchiha Akira, would end the fight so decisively.
Despite being outnumbered, Uchiha Akira showed no fear, his two-tomoe Sharingan glaring back at the ninjas before him.