Senjutsu, the art of harnessing natural energy, is a powerful force learned in the three great sanctuaries by the legendary sages. It's a technique that enhances one's chakra and perception while amplifying the power of their ninjutsu.
Minato Namikaze had mastered this power, a feat that had both surprised and rattled Orochimaru. As one of the three legendary ninjas, Orochimaru was no stranger to Senjutsu; after all, his summoning beasts came from the Ryuchi Cave, a place known for its mastery of this art. However, Orochimaru had never ventured into this practice himself. The trials of Ryuchi Cave were brutal, and failure meant death, an outcome Orochimaru, obsessed with immortality, couldn't risk.
Now, watching Minato perform the Sage Mode—something Jiraiya had mastered from the Toad Sage, while Tsunade had her own unique creation—Orochimaru felt a deep, gnawing regret. He had always prided himself on being a genius, yet here was Minato, outshining him with ease.
With a knowing smile, Minato addressed Orochimaru's silent envy. "It's a basic technique for a disciple of Jiraiya," he said casually, before quickly launching into action.
Minato dodged the attack from the First Hokage's Impure World Reincarnation body and, in an instant, conjured a massive wind sphere in his left hand.
"*Sage Technique: Big Ball Rasengan!*"
The Rasengan collided with the Second Hokage's body, disintegrating it with a single blow. Then, with a swift roundhouse kick, Minato sent Hashirama flying. "*Wind Style: Rasenshuriken!*"
The impact sent shockwaves through the area. The First Hokage's body turned to ash, while Minato swiftly redirected his attention to Orochimaru. As the Second Hokage began to regenerate, Minato was already on the move. With a speed that left Orochimaru breathless, Minato appeared before him and delivered a crushing kick, sending him sprawling against a barrier.
Orochimaru could barely process what had happened. The sheer speed at which Minato moved was overwhelming, and his power was unlike anything he had ever faced. His heart raced, as he realized that without the First and Second Hokage to back him up, he stood no chance against the legendary Fourth Hokage.
Despite his strength, Orochimaru still tried to fight back, summoning his "*Triple Rashomon*," a technique designed to defend against powerful attacks. Three massive gates appeared, but even this couldn't stop Minato.
"*Damn it! It's not over!*" Orochimaru cursed under his breath.
The battle raged on, but Minato, with his Sage Mode and unmatched skill, overwhelmed the resurrection of the two Hokage. His chakra, infused with the golden aura of the Sage and the fiery spiritual pressure from his newfound powers, forced the Impure World Reincarnation bodies to slowly disintegrate. Hashirama and Tobirama's souls rose, fading away to the Pure Land.
Minato's gaze shifted to Orochimaru, who was visibly shaken by the turn of events. Minato spoke with quiet authority, "This is a good thing. They've been sent to the Pure Land."
Orochimaru could hardly believe his eyes. The bodies of the two Hokage were broken so easily—this wasn't supposed to happen. Yet, here he was, alone, facing Minato's crushing strength. Orochimaru had to admit defeat. Without the support of the two Hokage, he had no way to continue this fight.
Minato looked over at the Third Hokage, who was still recovering on the ground. He considered ending it right then and there, but hesitated. Despite the village's corruption, he didn't have the heart to kill the Third Hokage now.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Minato turned back to Orochimaru. "Leave. Take your people and get out of Konoha," he ordered calmly.
Orochimaru was stunned. The words stung, a subtle mockery of his weakness. Yet, deep down, he knew Minato's words were not a mere insult. The sheer power Minato displayed made it clear that, in this moment, Orochimaru was no match for him.
Despite his anger, Orochimaru knew better than to challenge the Fourth Hokage further. He had already seen his limits, and Minato's magnanimity was something even he couldn't deny.
"*Tch*... You are truly insufferable," Orochimaru muttered under his breath, glaring at Minato.
The defeated snake sage turned one last time to the fallen Third Hokage, contemplating whether or not to strike. But Minato, sensing his intentions, interjected. "You can't kill him now. What's the point?"
Orochimaru glared at Minato, resentment clear in his eyes, but he had no choice but to obey. Minato's presence was simply too overwhelming to ignore.
And so, with an unspoken agreement, Orochimaru withdrew, leaving Konoha—at least for now—while Minato's gaze remained fixed on the village he once protected.