Reborn in Naruto As Orochimaru (AU)

Chapter 22: Debate

The group hurriedly cleaned up their belongings, and after Orochimaru ensured their safety, they set off on the road again.

This time, the perceptive Anbu ninja led the way, with the Sannin team and the contemplative Mucheng walking in the center. After the sturdy and strong Anbu cleared the path, the group rushed through the forest with haste.

The journey back without a mission was surprisingly easy. Orochimaru looked ahead at the lush forest, where the sun's rays filtered through the leaves, casting beautiful shadows on the birds and small animals as if they were adorned with sparkling jewels.

Breathing in the fresh air, it felt so natural and pure.

One of the Anbu ninjas at the back made markings on the tree trunks from time to time. On one occasion, he even sent a pigeon to relay important information. He was dedicated to ensuring the team's safety all the way, especially for Tsunade's well-being.

In the Hokage's office, the Second Hokage Senju Tobirama sat on his chair, flanked by his advisors Hiruzen Sarutobi, Danzo Shimura, Koharu Utatane, and Kagami Uchiha. The Second Hokage had five accomplished disciples, and one of them, Homura Mitokado was currently away on a mission.

The small office had only one chair, and the atmosphere with five people standing together, each with their concerns, was a bit heavy. Danzo's heart was weighed down by his own frustrations and worries.

Though not young anymore, the Second Hokage was still at the pinnacle of the ninja world, but the time to decide the Third Hokage's position would come eventually. Secretly observing his companions , Uchiha Kagami was strong and level-headed, always prioritizing the village's interests, and his abilities were commendable. Despite the Uchiha clan's strained relationship with the village, Danzo couldn't ignore the possibility of Kagami seeking power and rights for his clan.

Turning to Koharu, a skilled medical ninja, there was no need to doubt her loyalty to the village. Utatane Koharu, though intelligent, was too weak to take up the mantle of Hokage. The position couldn't be filled by someone so incapable.

Danzo's gaze settled on Sarutobi, the complacent man standing next to him. Dead monkey! Only you might disrupt my plans!

Sarutobi was an excellent candidate for Hokage, possessing both strength and intelligence. He belonged to a minor clan like Sarutobi, and had always supported the Senju clan. The ninja from minor clans would undoubtedly rally behind him.

This was actually an advantage for Danzo, but he knew he couldn't match Sarutobi's strength and influence directly. Moreover, Sarutobi had the will of fire, similar to the First Hokage, and was willing to selflessly dedicate everything to the village. As long as the Second Hokage was around, Danzo felt most insecure with Sarutobi taking the position.

Danzo knew he was also willing to sacrifice for the village, but only under the condition that he himself became Hokage!

Since he couldn't compete in terms of strength, he couldn't help but plot against Sarutobi. It was all for the sake of the village...

Danzo's gaze grew firmer, and a hint of ruthlessness appeared in his eyes!

Observing his five disciples, Tobirama calmly spoke, "As we all know, the situation is tense, and we must be prepared. Koharu, how are the preparations for the medical unit coming along?"

"Teacher, the preparations are nearly complete. We have more than 300 qualified medical ninjas ready to be called upon at any time."

"Good." Tobirama nodded, "Kagami, has Konoha's police force reported anything unusual?"