Satoru rested his chin on his hand, observing the shocked expressions of the candidates around him with evident amusement. His pale blue eyes curved slightly, reflecting his playful satisfaction.
"Why is everyone so surprised?" he mused aloud. "Aren't ninjas supposed to be resilient and calm?"
The candidates, however, were not simply shocked by Naruto's unexpected victory. Their unease stemmed from remembering the bet they'd made. Regret began to sink in as they wondered just what conditions this peculiar boy might impose on them.
Why did we agree to this? they thought in unison, stealing wary glances at Satoru. He didn't look particularly threatening, but his eccentric appearance—a dark robe and bandaged face—gave him an ominous air. If it weren't for his youthful demeanor and clean aura, one might mistake him for an S-rank rogue ninja.
Satoru cleared his throat, flashing a bright smile. "If I recall correctly, we made a bet, didn't we?"
The group reluctantly nodded, their expressions filled with regret.
"Say it already!" Rock Lee exclaimed enthusiastically, flexing his arms. "A promise made must be honored. This is the way of youth!"
The others turned their eyes toward Satoru, awaiting his demands with growing apprehension.
However, Satoru simply shrugged and said with a grin, "I haven't decided yet. I'll let you know after the exams."
His casual response sent a collective chill down their spines. The uncertainty of his conditions felt far more threatening than if he'd demanded something specific.
Meanwhile, the matches continued in the examination room. Satoru watched briefly before his gaze wandered, scanning the area. His attention sharpened as he realized Orochimaru, disguised as a Leaf ninja, had quietly vanished.
What is he up to? Satoru wondered, his expression growing thoughtful.
While Orochimaru's schemes were undoubtedly dangerous, Satoru's focus extended beyond the immediate threat. Orochimaru was only one of many who sought to exploit Uchiha's Sharingan for their own ends. Dealing with him alone would not address the larger issue.
Satoru's true objective in coming to Konoha wasn't to simply thwart Orochimaru's plans. He aimed to ensure Sasuke's safety and confront the deeper truths behind the Uchiha clan's tragedy. The conflict wasn't just one-sided; Konoha, particularly Danzo, bore significant responsibility for the clan's downfall.
Easily wiping out the Uchiha without addressing the root causes? That's not going to happen.
Satoru's eyes darkened with resolve. Orochimaru's plan to destroy Konoha could serve as an opportunity, a catalyst for his own agenda.
At the same time, elsewhere in Konoha, a clandestine conversation unfolded.
Orochimaru leaned casually against a wooden pillar, speaking to Kabuto Yakushi, who had just returned from the examination room.
"The preliminaries for the third exam are underway," Kabuto reported. "The official matches will begin soon."
Orochimaru's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Ah, the calm before the storm. How peaceful the world has become... almost unnervingly so. Yet in the shadows, nations quietly prepare for war, amassing their weapons. Such efforts will only lead to destruction, leaving nothing behind. Fascinating, isn't it?"
Kabuto nodded, his tone calm but deliberate. "We're nearly ready. I assume you'll act soon?"
Orochimaru chuckled lightly. "Perhaps. But tell me, Kabuto, what do you think of Sasuke Uchiha?"
Kabuto adjusted his glasses, the light glinting off the frames. "He's the key, isn't he? The perfect ammunition to ignite the flames of war. But what about Satoru? He seems... outside of your plans."
Orochimaru's expression shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Indeed, Satoru is an enigma. I hadn't accounted for him initially. He's a wild card, one that intrigues me greatly."
Kabuto tilted his head, curious. "And yet, you've tolerated his presence. Wouldn't someone with his influence over Sasuke typically be a threat to your plans?"
Orochimaru's smirk returned. "Ah, but isn't that what makes it interesting? Sasuke, born an avenger, is destined to fight his brother, Itachi. Yet his resolve wavered when he fought me. He's conflicted—torn between his goals and the bonds he's formed with others, particularly Satoru."
Kabuto raised an eyebrow. "So, what's your plan? To separate them?"
"Perhaps," Orochimaru mused. "Or perhaps I'll bring them both into my fold. Satoru may be a distraction, but he also presents... opportunities."
The notion left Kabuto momentarily stunned. Orochimaru, who usually eliminated threats without hesitation, was considering integrating Satoru into his schemes. What kind of potential did Orochimaru see in him?
As Kabuto turned to leave, Orochimaru's voice stopped him.
"Remember, Kabuto, if you truly wish to stop me, you have only one option—kill Sasuke now. Words won't be enough to sway me. Not even your abilities, formidable as they are, can stand against my ambitions."
Kabuto froze, a bead of sweat trailing down his temple. Was this a test of loyalty, or a veiled threat? He glanced back, meeting Orochimaru's piercing gaze.
Finally, Orochimaru chuckled softly. "Relax, Kabuto. I trust you. Now, go."
Kabuto nodded stiffly and disappeared into the shadows, his mind racing. What exactly is Orochimaru planning? And what role does Satoru truly play in all of this?