Meanwhile.
Satoru's pale blue eyes flashed with a hint of surprise.
Is this... Zetsu?
A villain who only appeared in the middle and later stages of the original story, contributing significantly to the main conspiracies.
Why is he here now?
This was supposed to be much later. He had no role during the Chunin Exams, as far as Satoru remembered.
What could his sudden appearance mean?
Satoru thought carefully about the recent events, unsure if Zetsu had noticed him.
I probably didn't give myself away, he mused, holding his chin thoughtfully.
His eyes became deep and calculating.
It seems that my identity as Satoru Uchiha must remain hidden, at least for now, to avoid unnecessary complications.
Zetsu's skills in stealth and information gathering were unparalleled. Handling him directly could become troublesome.
If that's the case, I should avoid returning to the Uchiha side or even associating with Sasuke for now. It's better to reduce contact entirely.
Satoru couldn't shake the feeling that Zetsu's arrival was somehow related to him.
Elsewhere.
Orochimaru gradually regained his composure.
His golden eyes narrowed as he observed the mysterious figure who had survived the barrier.
"I didn't expect you to emerge victorious," Orochimaru said warily. "What are you doing here?"
The individual before him wasn't just any genin. This level of strength and skill suggested a hidden agenda. Orochimaru couldn't determine what it was, but the mystery only made it more intriguing.
I thought he was just a promising container, Orochimaru reflected, his gaze turning darker. But it seems there's much more to him.
The boy's talent and strength reminded Orochimaru of Uchiha Itachi from years ago.
If this continues, he'll reach Itachi's level in just a few years.
Jealousy flared within Orochimaru as he glanced at his disabled hands, the inability to perform ninjutsu a constant reminder of his limitations.
"Purpose?" Satoru echoed, resting his chin on his hand, his voice calm.
"Do you really think I'd share something like that?"
He cast a lazy glance at Orochimaru and the nearby Konoha ninja, who were still on alert.
This could get troublesome soon, Satoru thought.
To avoid attention, he had refrained from using his mana, instead relying solely on chakra from his human vessel. However, the energy depletion was significant.
Adding to the strain, his opponents included Orochimaru, the First Hokage, and the Second Hokage, summoned by the Reanimation Jutsu.
Even with the Third Hokage bearing the brunt of the fight, it still took a toll.
Reanimation Jutsu truly was a forbidden technique that upset the balance of power.
Satoru adjusted his posture subtly, his black robe concealing any signs of exhaustion.
Orochimaru chuckled, his voice low and amused.
"It doesn't matter what your purpose is," he said. "You'll still have to leave soon."
He gestured toward the Konoha forces outside.
"With the current situation, escaping smoothly won't be easy. Even if you use the Flying Thunder God technique, they've already observed your patterns. What awaits you is an overwhelming assault."
Orochimaru's lips curled into a sly smile.
"But... I can help you."
His golden eyes gleamed with intent as he studied Satoru.
He's exceptional, Orochimaru mused, but even talent has limits. His chakra and stamina must be nearly depleted by now. No one can surpass those boundaries, no matter how gifted.
"Help me?" Satoru let out a soft laugh.
His pale blue eyes were calm and cold as he looked at Orochimaru with detached amusement.
"Orochimaru, are you serious?" Satoru said mockingly. "Do you think I've already reached my limit? And as for the Flying Thunder God technique being countered, don't make me laugh."
Orochimaru's golden eyes narrowed as he observed Satoru's sudden shift in demeanor.
What is this confidence?
Orochimaru broke into a low laugh.
"Hahaha... so that's who you really are," he muttered, his tone filled with curiosity and amusement.
"But if you're as capable as you say," Orochimaru said, his expression turning sharp, "then why haven't you attacked me yet?"
He leaned forward slightly, his gaze piercing.
"You helped that old man—the Third Hokage—earlier. Isn't this your chance to kill me?"
Satoru met Orochimaru's probing gaze with an unbothered expression, the corners of his mouth quirking upward.
"Why would I?" he asked indifferently. "Where did you get the idea that we have a good relationship?"
Satoru's voice turned thoughtful.
"Didn't I make it clear earlier?"
Lowering his eyes slightly, Satoru's expression deepened.
In truth, Satoru had no intention of attacking Orochimaru.
Not only was he low on stamina, but there was no reason to.
The Third Hokage deliberately let Orochimaru escape. Why should I interfere?
Satoru sighed inwardly.
Besides, his relationship with the Third Hokage wasn't particularly close. Why would he care about living up to anyone's expectations?
All I want is to bask in the sun and avoid unnecessary trouble, he thought to himself.
Orochimaru observed Satoru carefully, doubt flickering in his golden eyes.
Hasn't he reached his limit yet? How is he still standing?
The boy's abilities and demeanor left Orochimaru with more questions than answers.
"Even if you escape now, Konoha won't let you go so easily," Orochimaru said finally. "You'll need somewhere to hide."
He smirked.
"Your former village—do you think they'll accept you after this? Will they stand against Konoha for you?"
Orochimaru's voice carried a sinister edge.
"Only Otogakure can provide you with shelter now. Think about it, Satoru. You need me."
Satoru tilted his head, pretending to consider Orochimaru's words.
Perhaps Otogakure could be useful, he thought.
Using the village to lay low while gathering information might be worth the trouble. And Orochimaru's laboratory held secrets Satoru was eager to uncover.
Orochimaru watched him closely, sensing the boy's contemplative expression.
If Satoru agrees, it would be an unexpected boon, Orochimaru thought, his excitement growing.
I might even get the chance to make his body my next vessel.
Orochimaru's pupils constricted, the ambition in his gaze unmistakable.
>>>>>
Complete Story available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
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