The Third Hokage's announcement of Uzumaki Raiden's new appointment sent shockwaves through the crowd.
The Anbu and the Guard Squad were distinct units within Konoha's hierarchy. While the Guard Squad technically fell under the Anbu's purview and served primarily to protect the Hokage, their missions were far less complex compared to the Anbu's diverse responsibilities. The Anbu not only safeguarded the village and the Hokage but also undertook high-stakes tasks like hunting rogue ninjas and infiltrating enemy territories.
Anbu captains, in particular, held significant authority. Unlike regular Anbu, who often operated solo, captains led teams on missions of extraordinary difficulty. Raiden's leap from the Guard Squad to Anbu captain was an unprecedented promotion, sparking murmurs among the assembled ninjas.
"Can you believe this? Hokage-sama is playing favorites."
"From genin to special jonin, and now straight to Anbu captain? What about those of us who've been grinding for years?"
"I heard he's one of Hokage-sama's disciples. Maybe this is all just part of some scheme between him and Orochimaru."
Though the voices were hushed, the sheer number of murmurs created a constant buzz, fueling skepticism and envy.
"Third Hokage, don't you think this promotion is a bit… premature?" Hatake Sakumo interjected, his voice low but firm. "Wouldn't it be better to first let Uzumaki Raiden gain experience in the Anbu before assigning him such a high rank? He's young and lacks mission experience. If he leads a team without proper preparation, it could jeopardize his subordinates' lives."
Sakumo wasn't objecting out of malice—he genuinely valued the lives of his fellow ninjas and believed in fairness.
"I've made up my mind," Hiruzen Sarutobi replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Raiden is a Konoha ninja. He'll find a way to handle this responsibility. I trust him not to disappoint me."
As Sarutobi's gaze fell on Raiden, who was still resting under a tree, his expression softened with anticipation.
Meanwhile, Raiden was oblivious to the ongoing discussions. The poison's effects had peaked, leaving him both dizzy and afflicted with a persistent ringing in his ears. He could see Tsunade and Jiraiya speaking to him, their faces cheerful, but he couldn't make out a word. Resigned to his condition, Raiden closed his eyes and drifted into a restless sleep under their care.
By evening, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of red and orange. Raiden finally stirred. The tinnitus had subsided, and the dizziness had eased significantly. As he sat up, he realized the practice field was now deserted.
"Are you awake? How are you feeling?" Orochimaru's familiar hoarse voice broke the silence.
"Brother Orochimaru?" Raiden turned, his confusion evident. Orochimaru, now dressed in a white robe, leaned against the tree beside him, watching him with a faint smile.
"It's me. You should be fully recovered by now. The poison wasn't deep," Orochimaru said casually.
"I'm fine now," Raiden replied, though his concern shifted to Orochimaru. "But what about you? You took a lot of hits earlier. Shouldn't you be at the hospital?"
"And where are Tsunade and that pervert Jiraiya?"
Orochimaru chuckled. "They went to buy dinner. They'll be back soon. We're having a picnic, just the four of us."
"Sounds nice, but honestly, Brother, you're too much," Raiden grumbled. "You had the antidote but didn't give it to me. I was miserable!"
"Humph," Orochimaru chuckled. "That was your punishment. Consider it a lesson: I don't give up so easily."
"Persistent is an understatement," Raiden muttered, settling down beside Orochimaru. "That poison was brutal. I barely touched it, and it knocked me out."
"You're strong, Raiden. Your physical skills surpass mine. But ninja battles aren't just about strength or chakra. Victory often depends on tactics, preparation, and exploiting your opponent's weaknesses," Orochimaru said, gazing at the fiery clouds in the sunset sky.
"I understand. I'll remember that," Raiden replied sincerely. He knew his abilities had surpassed Orochimaru's in raw power, but the battle had taught him a valuable lesson. Ninja combat was multifaceted, and even the strongest could fall to a well-placed strategy or an unexpected trick.
As the two exchanged combat insights under the fading light, Tsunade and Jiraiya returned, their arms laden with bags of food and bottles of sake.
"Come on, dinner's ready!" Jiraiya called out, his voice carrying a playful tone.
Raiden and Orochimaru exchanged a glance, smiled, and stood to join their companions.
Under the starlit sky, the four of them gathered for a simple feast. They laughed, ate, and drank, sharing stories and camaraderie. By the end of the evening, both Tsunade and Jiraiya were tipsy, their laughter echoing through the quiet training grounds.
For that brief moment, the world's troubles seemed distant, and the bonds of friendship between the legendary Sannin and their young protégé felt unbreakable.
(End of this chapter)