As Orochimaru departed from the Root Organization, the sadness on Danzo's face faded completely. With the trump card Orochimaru had provided, things suddenly seemed much simpler. At least now, Danzo could stop worrying about the strength of his forces. Supporting Orochimaru had proven to be a wise decision.
"Inform all members of the Root Organization: anyone who wishes to withdraw may do so freely. However, those who wish to remain must gather here within half an hour," Danzo commanded, picking up the documents in front of him to plan his next move.
**Three days later.**
In the Hokage's office, Mitokado Hamura and Koharu exchanged worried glances as they addressed Sarutobi Hiruzen.
"Sandaime, about Danzo…"
The two elders could see the complex relationship between Sarutobi Hiruzen and Shimura Danzo, but now it seemed that Hiruzen was making his move. More importantly, the powerful clans—the Hyuga, the Uchiha—and figures like Tsunade and Jiraiya were beginning to stir. The once dormant forces in the village were shifting, seemingly at Hiruzen's behest.
Could he be planning to purge the old guard?
"You don't need to worry," Hiruzen reassured them. "What you're responsible for and the interests you hold have little to do with the new generation. Focus on contributing more to Konoha."
With that, he dismissed them. The two elders exchanged glances again before leaving, their expressions heavy. They realized that Konoha was on the verge of a major power shift. If they couldn't prove their usefulness, they would be replaced.
Once they were gone, Hiruzen stepped out to the rooftop, gazing over the village.
"Sensei, what I'm about to do now… maybe…"
Hiruzen's face twisted with conflicting emotions, but he knew he was already on this path. It might be the opportunity for the change he needed.
---
In Tsunade's courtyard, Reiki, Uchiha Shisui, Nozuki, and Tsunade sat together.
"Teacher," Shisui began, "the Uchiha clan has seen significant changes due to the establishment of the reporting system and the self-inspection within the Security Department. The clan's dynamics have shifted considerably. Also, Reiki's medicine prices have increased again. Many of our clan members now take on additional missions beyond their security duties, so there hasn't been any unrest in a while."
Shisui's expression brightened. The biggest problem within the Uchiha clan had always been those who stirred trouble. But now, with everyone busy and driven by the enhanced training provided by the medicine, there was no time for dissent.
"It sounds like you're indirectly blaming Reiki," Nozuki said playfully. "Even my brother and sister-in-law have started taking on high-level missions. He left the village yesterday without even taking me. Now, I don't have much to do," she added with a laugh.
"Alright, it seems like everything you two are saying points to Reiki," Tsunade interjected. "Reiki, make sure to keep up with your training. In one year, I want you promoted to Jonin. And you'll need to help manage hospital affairs."
Tsunade's eyes sparkled with pride as she looked at her students. However, her greatest concern was Reiki—his unpredictable nature kept her on edge. The recent blow to Danzo was largely due to Reiki's actions, and she couldn't shake the feeling that he might pull another stunt.
"Teacher, I'll train hard," Reiki said with a mischievous grin. He knew Tsunade was hinting at him, but he wasn't planning to reveal his next move just yet. While Shisui and Nozuki could know, Tsunade couldn't—not because she was incapable, but because she might act impulsively on matters of principle.
"You...," Tsunade sighed. "Alright, what are your plans?" she asked, turning to Shisui and Nozuki.
Reiki was known for staying in the village unless assigned a mission, but he was always full of restless energy. Shisui and Nozuki had even started avoiding him at times, not because they feared him, but because he'd rope them into intense training sessions.
"After my break, I plan to resume my ANBU missions," Shisui said.
"As for me," Nozuki added, "I don't have any current assignments, but Reiki keeps dragging me to train. I'm thinking of joining a temporary mission team and heading out."
Shisui hadn't had a proper rest in days, and Nozuki's training under Reiki was more grueling than any mission. Both wanted a break from his relentless pace.
"Why are you two looking at me?" Reiki said, half-joking. "How many potions have I given you recently? If you keep complaining, I won't share any more."
The two exchanged sheepish looks.
"Uh… alright. Reiki, you're the best."
"Yes, teacher, Reiki is great…"
After some laughter, Shisui and Nozuki went their separate ways, needing a break from Reiki's relentless training. He had even joked that they had to list 99 things he'd done for them before he'd forgive their complaints—a daunting task indeed.
Tsunade, with her own responsibilities to handle, also left for a few days.
With everyone gone, Reiki stood in the now-quiet courtyard. "I've rested long enough. Time to get back to work," he murmured, heading for the village entrance. He submitted his mission details and set out.
Before long, Reiki sensed his mission target.
"Reiki, the Medical Ninja!" Sanada, a familiar face, greeted him warmly. "I see you still come personally to pick up supplies."
Reiki smiled. "President Sanada, you never delegate such important tasks."
"There's no choice—I can't trust anyone else with these matters. By the way, the arrangements you made have been completed. But… why are you dealing with such things?" Sanada asked, curiosity in his eyes.
---
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Up to Chapter 550 available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
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