186-190

*Chapter 186: A Terrifying Change!*

Temari came out slowly, glaring at Itsuki.

Her expression clearly said it: Itsuki was a complete scumbag.

Although it was true, Itsuki still found it annoying.

He glanced sideways at Temari and said, "What? The last lesson wasn’t enough? You dare throw a tantrum in front of me? Do you want me to make you stay in bed for two more days?"

"Hmph!"

Temari snorted, then glanced at Anko, who was tied up in ropes, and sneered, "You’re into old women like her?"

Old woman?

Itsuki’s eye twitched.

He had plenty of women, and only Uzuki Yugao was younger than Anko.

Women like Kurenai and Pakura were several years older than Anko.

The oldest one was almost thirty, a good decade older than Itsuki himself.

Of course, compared to a sixteen- or seventeen-year-old like Temari, they were all much older.

Itsuki took a deep breath and said, "Don't ever say something like that again, got it?"

He wasn’t just defending his women—it was also to protect Temari’s life.

Forget someone like Pakura, even Anko could take down Temari easily.

If they ever heard Temari’s remarks, she'd be in deep trouble.

Temari wanted to argue but shut up after Itsuki shot her a look. "Okay, I get it!"

"Come with me."

Itsuki smiled and waved Temari over.

"Who wants to go with you? I have my own team!"

Temari grumbled, but she still instinctively followed Itsuki.

"What about Gaara and the others?"

"They’re already gone!"

"You’re not with them? Aren’t you worried about being eliminated?"

"Why should I care about that? If I’m out, so be it."

Temari laughed mockingly.

Did the Chunin Exams even matter to her?

Of course not!

The Sand Village was planning to attack the Leaf anyway, so what were the Chunin Exams in comparison?

Besides,

With her father’s position, he could easily promote her to Jonin whenever he wanted!

Climbing step by step through exams—that was for common ninjas.

Itsuki thought for a moment.

In the original story, during the Chunin Exams, out of all the Genin, only Shikamaru passed. Everyone else got knocked out.

But!

Three years later, Temari was a Jonin.

Funny how that works!

However,

By now, the Fourth Kazekage, Rasa, should already be dead.

With that thought, an idea popped into Itsuki’s mind.

Gaara as the Kazekage? That wasn’t right at all.

What could a fourteen or fifteen-year-old kid do?

Maybe...

I should find a new Kazekage for the Sand Village.

...

Itsuki had plenty of time.

Making it through the Forest of Death? That was nothing to him.

Besides,

He hadn’t come here for the Chunin Exams in the first place.

No one would believe that Uchiha Itsuki would actually take the exams seriously.

During the week in the Forest of Death, Itsuki and Temari had a lot of fun.

Yes, exactly the kind of fun you’re thinking.

Eventually, Anko joined in too.

Because Temari was feeling lonely.

Itsuki, of course, didn’t mind adding another person!

The three of them spent their time laughing and enjoying themselves.

As for Anko’s frustration and unwillingness...

"Orochimaru-sensei has a very important plan. Should I ruin it for him, Anko? Do you really want that?"

Anko instantly settled down.

To someone like her, her teacher was everything.

As for the second stage of the exam...

When Itsuki and Anko entered the Forest of Death, the proctor had already been replaced.

...

At this moment!

Deep in the Forest of Death,

Sai was confronting Naruto.

Sakura stood by Naruto’s side.

"Step aside!"

Sai’s voice was cold. "Naruto Uzumaki, Sakura Haruno, are you betraying the village?"

Sakura shrank back, hesitation written all over her face.

Naruto, however, stood his ground, shouting, "Sasuke is our comrade! I’m hurt, but we should protect him."

"He’s a rogue ninja!"

Sai said each word deliberately. "By helping him now, you’re betraying the Leaf!"

He looked with disgust at the unconscious Sasuke lying behind Naruto.

Further back, Rock Lee was also unconscious, and Neji and Tenten were nowhere to be seen.

"Sasuke’s not a traitor!"

Naruto shouted back, "He’s been deceived! I’ll bring him back to the village!"

"Bring him back? And then what?"

Sai stared coldly at Naruto. "The village elders will definitely execute Sasuke for betraying the Leaf. What will you do then? Defy the village?"

Naruto froze. "That’s not possible. The village wouldn’t do that."

"Not possible?"

Sai sneered. "Every village in the ninja world has the same stance on rogue ninjas, Sakura. Don’t you know that?"

He turned his gaze toward Sakura.

Biting her lip, Sakura struggled to say, "Maybe... there’s another way..."

"There isn’t. There’s no other way!"

Sai’s face was expressionless as he said, "Naruto, step aside. This is also a direct order from the Hokage."

"No!"

Naruto suddenly yelled, "By your logic, I’m the son of the Fourth Hokage. A lot of people in the village didn’t follow my dad’s orders. Are they traitors to the Leaf, too?"

"You..."

Sai was stunned.

Sakura was stunned.

She had no idea about Naruto’s true identity.

Sai, on the other hand, couldn’t believe Naruto would say something like that.

Naruto’s voice was full of sorrow. "My father died to save the village. He wanted me to be a hero, but the village treated me like a monster and took everything from me. I couldn’t even get enough to eat. Tell me, isn’t that a betrayal of the Hokage’s wishes? Or was that the Third Hokage’s order?"

"That’s nonsense, you, you..."

Sai, who had grown up in the harshest conditions under Danzo’s training, wasn’t as naive as Naruto. He knew a lot more than Naruto did.

But Naruto’s words still shook him.

How could he think like that?

This wasn’t the Naruto from the reports at all!

Sai’s breathing became rapid.

This was unexpected!

Very unexpected!

A serious problem!

Naruto, the Nine-Tailed Fox... how could he have such thoughts?

This wasn’t good!

He absolutely couldn’t be allowed to think this way!

Naruto was supposed to be the type who loved and was loyal to the village no matter how it treated him, always full of hope...

"Did I say something wrong?"

Naruto stared directly at Sai. "Sai, I don’t know you, not at all, but you must be working for someone in the village, right?"

Sai: "..."

You even know there are higher-ups in the village?

Isn’t there supposed to be only the Hokage in your world?

"Tell me!"

Naruto’s voice was filled with sorrow. "My father was the Fourth Hokage. He died with hope for the village and wished for me to be a hero. But the village treated me like a monster and took everything from me. I couldn’t even get enough food. Tell me, isn’t that a betrayal of the Hokage?"

Sai’s breathing quickened as he looked at Naruto with a hint of fear.

"Naruto Uzumaki..."

He whispered Naruto’s name and then used the Body Flicker Technique to vanish.

He had to report to Danzo immediately.

"Phew!"

Naruto exhaled heavily, then smiled at the dejected Sakura beside him. "Sakura, don’t worry, I’ll protect you."

Sakura: "..."

Big brother, your protection makes me feel really uneasy.

Maybe we should talk. How about... you don’t protect me?

I’m just a civilian ninja; I just want to stay alive.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 187 - The Third Round

*Chunin Exam.*

In many ways, it was the same as the original, but there were also notable differences.

Sasuke once again encountered Orochimaru.

Orochimaru also placed a curse mark on him.

Sasuke's desire for the Uchiha power nearly destroyed his sanity.

This mad scientist, the most unhinged in the ninja world at this point, acted decisively.

Of course...

Afterward...

Itachi definitely wouldn't let him go.

A hunt was inevitable.

When Sasuke fell unconscious, Rock Lee, who had gone scouting, was the first to find him and tried to help. He fought against the Sound ninjas but was severely injured by them.

Later, Naruto’s team found and saved them.

Meanwhile, Neji and Tenten were locked in a standoff with the Sound Ninja team.

At this moment...

A large number of Genin began passing the second round of the exam.

However...

The Chunin in charge of receiving the teams was stunned as he looked at the scroll being handed over, "Wait, there are only two of you?"

Gaara remained expressionless, his eyes filled with malice.

Kankuro sighed beside him, "We got separated from our teammate."

Actually, she ran off.

They knew about Temari's mission, but wasn’t that a bit too proactive?

One moment of distraction, and she was gone.

Was that really "forced"?

Proactiveness +1...

"Alright!"

The Chunin thought for a moment, then nodded, "You two passed."

The Sand Village was an ally, and at such a crucial time, the Leaf Village ninjas didn’t mind bending the rules a bit.

Technically, three people were required to pass, but an occasional exception wasn’t a big deal.

But!

"You two are also missing a person?"

Iruka stared at Naruto in surprise, "Where’s Sai?"

"Well..."

Naruto’s eyes darted around.

"We got separated!"

"Separated?"

This answer left Iruka shocked.

With Naruto’s personality, would he really leave the Forest of Death if he got separated from a teammate? He’d turn the whole forest upside down looking for them before he’d leave.

"Naruto, tell me the truth!"

Iruka’s expression was serious and stern.

Sakura shrank back in fear.

"Alright."

Naruto quietly explained a few things.

Iruka started to get a headache.

For Sasuke?

Naruto's team had a fight?

Sai left on his own?

Was that even possible!

Sure, Iruka knew Naruto cared about Sasuke, but Sasuke was a rogue ninja now! Get your priorities straight!

However...

That’s just like Naruto.

"Alright."

Iruka sighed helplessly. He exchanged a glance with the Chunin, who now looked pale.

Originally, they’d only bent the rules for the Sand ninjas, but now it was a trend.

"Fine. You passed, but I’m reporting this to the Hokage immediately. Naruto, you better prepare yourself."

Naruto nodded calmly.

Iruka's face changed slightly.

So calm?

Is this really Naruto?

Where’s all the shouting and excitement?

"You two as well?"

Another Chunin looked at Neji’s group, exasperated, with visible frustration.

He turned to glare at the first Chunin, who looked like he was about to cry.

Three people!

You need three people to pass!

Didn’t you listen to the rules during the exam briefing?

How many exceptions do you expect us to make?

Neji nodded coldly.

Beside him, Tenten smiled awkwardly, "Our teammate was injured and sent back early."

"Hmph!"

Neji scoffed.

All because of a rogue Uchiha, their teammate had gotten so badly injured that he had to withdraw for emergency treatment.

In Neji’s view, this was idiotic.

If they failed to pass the exam, he wouldn’t forgive that person.

"Alright."

By now, they’d already made several exceptions, and the Chunins had basically given up, allowing Neji’s team to pass.

"You two are missing someone too?"

Another Chunin, looking at the group in front of him, couldn’t help but laugh bitterly and shot a sharp look at the first Chunin.

That Chunin really wanted to cry.

Where’s your teammate?

Did you sacrifice them?

Sasuke nodded, glancing briefly at Itsuki.

Just before leaving the Forest of Death, Itsuki had reappeared and joined him.

Damn it, do you even know how badly injured I was?

When it was dangerous, you didn’t show up. Now that it's over, you come out?

Itsuki didn’t even glance at Sasuke.

So what if you were hurt? Just because you’re in the Chunin exam doesn’t mean I’m supposed to babysit you.

I’m the Kage of the Wood Village! You think you’re that important?

"Pass!"

The Chunin waved them through, too exhausted to argue.

He really had no more words.

When yet another two-man team appeared, the gathered Chunins went completely silent, all glaring at the first Chunin in unison.

That Chunin just hung his head, staying quiet.

I’m the village’s sinner!

Two Leaf ninjas stood there silently.

Naruto couldn’t help but shout, "Where’s Kabuto-senpai?"

The two ninjas glanced at Naruto but didn’t say a word.

"Pass!"

The Chunin approved them once again.

At this point, who cared about the three-person rule?

This year's Chunin exam... what a joke.

The news soon reached the Hokage’s office.

But...

Every time a messenger entered this office, they felt a bit strange.

...The Hokage didn’t smoke anymore.

And...

There was a faint fragrance in the office!

No way, that’s just an illusion!

There’s no way the Hokage, a grumpy old man, would have a sweet smell around him!

"Oh, the Nine-Tails has changed as well?"

The Third Hokage’s expression remained calm.

As for the two-person teams passing the exam instead of three, he didn’t even ask about it.

It wasn’t important.

"Yes," Iruka quickly responded, "His behavior has been unusually calm, very different from how he used to be."

The Third glanced at Danzo sitting nearby.

The two understood each other’s thoughts.

"I see. You are dismissed."

The Third’s calm voice filled the room.

Iruka took a step forward, "Lord Hokage..."

"Iruka, I understand!"

The Third cut him off, "You may leave."

"Yes, sir."

The group acknowledged the order and left.

"So, Hiruzen," Danzo looked at the Third, "have you made up your mind?"

The Third Hokage stared at his old companion, "Danzo, you should know what this means."

"I’ve thought it through!"

The Third Hokage was silent for a moment, then nodded, "Alright. If you can succeed... you’ll be the Fifth Hokage."

A flash of joy crossed Danzo’s eyes.

But the Third didn’t share in that excitement. Instead, he spoke in a low voice, "You should also understand that if you fail, the consequences for both of us will be catastrophic."

"Don’t worry, Hiruzen!" Danzo said with certainty, "I will succeed. Absolutely!"

"Hiruzen, trust me!"

The Third Hokage nodded slightly, worry etched in his eyes.

Danzo was his final option.

If he had a choice, he wouldn’t choose him.

But unfortunately...

For the sake of the Sarutobi clan, there was no other choice.

Teacher, forgive me!

We’ve become the very thing you despised.

The things we’re about to do will never earn your forgiveness.

If you’re watching from above, please close your eyes and don’t look!

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 188: Reunion

The Forest of Death.

The Chunin were dumbfounded.

Itsuki emerged, along with Temari and Anko, the three of them swaying slightly as they walked out.

"We're not late, are we?"

Itsuki asked with a smile.

"N-no, you're not..."

The Chunin nodded stiffly, then looked at Itsuki with envy.

Although Anko could be a bit quirky, no one could deny her looks. She had a youthful face, and she looked tough!

Temari, who had carried a bit of a tomboyish air before entering the Forest of Death, now gave off a delicate, almost traditionally feminine vibe that drew everyone's attention.

Two women and one man, spending so much time in the Forest of Death, and you're telling me nothing happened? Look at those two women—do you believe that?

Anko, usually so bold, couldn't even bring herself to look at the crowd. She kept her head down and hurried past. Temari's gaze lingered on Itsuki, practically glowing with affection as she ignored everyone else around them.

And to top it off, the three of them were carrying roasted meat and wine!

The two women even had flowers in their hands, wore flower-woven hats, and had cloaks made of woven grass.

What the heck!

The crowd looked at Itsuki, more and more suspicious.

Were you on vacation? Do you have any idea how many people die here every year? This is just too much!

"Since we’re not late, we’ll be going. See you later, and good luck finding yourselves a wife!"

The Chunin: "..."

Itsuki smiled and said to the two women, "It's time for the third exam preliminaries."

"Yeah!"

Anko nodded but then smiled bitterly. "What am I going to do?"

Thanks to Orochimaru, her position in the Leaf Village was already awkward. Now, being connected with Uchiha Itsuki? That made it even worse.

By the end of today, there'd probably be countless people wanting her dead.

And there'd likely be no shortage of those actually making attempts.

The Hokage and the others would probably turn a blind eye as well.

After all, she was just an unstable Special Jonin.

As for what Itsuki had done to her, she wasn’t particularly bothered. Having worked under Orochimaru, she'd long since gotten used to the law of the jungle—survival of the fittest. Itsuki was strong. So, no matter what he did, it just seemed natural. An abnormal person taught by another abnormal person—that was Anko.

Itsuki glanced at her and said, "Come with me. What else are you going to do? Stick around and try to become Hokage?"

Anko: "..."

Hokage? That wasn’t even a possibility in this lifetime.

It wasn’t about strength. She just couldn’t pass the political checks.

Sigh.

Anko let out a deep sigh and started adjusting her mindset. At this point, did she even have a choice? She could only move forward. Though... she still wondered what her teacher would think.

The three of them left, chatting and laughing as they went. When they finally arrived at the grand hall, the Third Hokage had just finished saying something that shook the Genin to their cores.

They had never imagined that a Chunin exam could involve so much. It was almost like a mini version of the wars between the ninja villages.

In this condensed war, the Leaf Village held an absolute advantage. No wonder the Hokage and Jonin looked so pleased.

Still, some observant individuals were puzzled. Apart from the Sand and the Leaf, it didn’t seem like other ninja villages had sent any participants. Three of the Five Great Ninja Villages were absent, along with several smaller but strategically important villages.

Did those obscure little villages even count?

If they did, then the Leaf Village's standards were pretty low, just looking to dominate among the weaker competitors?

Up on the high platform stood numerous Jonin, with the Third Hokage at the center.

Down below were the Genin, including Naruto Uzumaki.

Itsuki glanced casually at the group.

The people who passed were almost the same as in the original story.

The only difference was that Kurenai had been lured to the Fire Shadow Village by Itsuki, so her role was now taken by Shiranui Genma, who was the proctor for the third exam.

Since Gekko Hayate had also been whisked away by Itsuki, Genma, who was originally a reserve proctor, had moved up.

Itsuki naturally blended into the group of Genin, looking up at the platform with his head held high.

"..."

Are you really planning to continue this fight?

Several of the Jonin had odd expressions on their faces. At the same time, they were secretly wary.

This was Uchiha Itsuki—the man who had caused the Leaf Village so much trouble in recent years.

It was because of him that the Uchiha Clan had split from the Leaf.

If not for him, even if the Uchiha were destroyed, they would never have come up with the idea of seceding.

Splitting off and founding a new village?

Who could even think of such a thing?

Itsuki looked up, locking eyes with them, giving special attention to the Third Hokage. He made no effort to hide the confrontation.

The tension between them grew thick.

It was as if sparks were flying in the air.

Suddenly, Itsuki stuck his tongue out at Hiruzen Sarutobi and the others.

“Bleh~”

Third Hokage: "..."

The Jonin: "..."

Orochimaru: "..."

You’ve got to be kidding me. Are you a three-year-old child?

Making faces...

In such a serious situation?

Ridiculous! Completely ridiculous!

The Third Hokage took a deep breath, gritting his teeth. "Genma, let’s get started."

He couldn’t take it anymore.

Just seeing Uchiha Itsuki’s face made his blood pressure rise.

Making faces?

You little... right now, I want to tear you to pieces.

I want to grind your bones to dust.

No, I need to step down for a bit, cool off.

If I keep facing off with Itsuki, I might lose control.

What if I start a fight?

I’m not even sure I can beat him.

How pathetic!

With a dark expression, the Third Hokage stepped down from the platform.

Only then did Itsuki shift his gaze, letting out a small snort.

A stare-down?

I’ve never been afraid of anyone.

The preliminaries began, and they were almost identical to the original story.

Sasuke used his willpower to suppress the curse mark, then defeated his opponent with his Lion Combo attack.

But Sasuke himself was different from the original.

In the original, Sasuke was consumed by revenge, a pure avenger.

Now, he was completely changed.

He was following in Itachi’s footsteps.

And ahead of Itachi stood the pinnacle of the ninja world, Uchiha Itsuki.

According to Itachi, Uchiha Itsuki’s power was unmatched, even across the entire ninja world.

Itachi had nothing but the highest praise for Itsuki.

Hearing this over and over again, Sasuke had come to form a belief:

Uchiha Itsuki was a ninja as great as Hashirama Senju or Madara Uchiha.

And when it came to the Uchiha, Itsuki even surpassed them, as he had truly liberated the clan.

So now, Sasuke was not driven by revenge.

He was driven by the desire to catch up.

He followed in Itachi’s shadow, knowing that even farther ahead was Itsuki’s.

He couldn’t stand the idea of not even being able to see their shadows.

Uchiha emotions ran deep, and Sasuke was no exception.

This obsession became the source of his strength.

"Hehehe... hahaha!"

In the shadows, Orochimaru couldn’t hold back his laughter.

What a surprise—what an incredible surprise.

Uchiha Sasuke, his final choice after so much retreating and compromise, had turned out to be such a delightful surprise.

This kid’s potential was no less than his brother’s.

With the right training, he could even surpass Itachi and Shisui.

He might even surpass Uchiha Itsuki—a true prodigy!

Perfect. Absolutely perfect.

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 189: Kakashi: On His Knees!*

Sasuke sat on the ground, gasping for breath.

He looked around, searching for Itsuki.

How’s that?

He’s improved!

He’s gotten much stronger than before, constantly chasing after your footsteps.

One day,

He’ll have the right to stand beside you.

Itsuki was also watching him, a smile on his lips.

That alone was the greatest encouragement.

Sasuke felt like he’d eaten ice cream on a scorching summer day—so refreshing!

Unfortunately,

That feeling only lasted three seconds!

The curse mark on his neck caused him to convulse in pain, collapsing onto the ground, gasping for breath.

“Sasuke!”

Naruto shouted and tried to rush over, but the ninja next to him firmly held him back.

Come on, what are you thinking, charging in now?

You’re a Konoha ninja.

The other guy is a ninja from Hidden Fire Village, a rogue ninja from Konoha!

Sakura also let out an ear-piercing scream.

Gaara, who was nearby, nearly couldn’t hold back and almost gave her a “Sand Burial”!

Scared me!

Whoosh!

Kakashi, with his Make-Out Paradise book in hand, appeared next to Sasuke.

No matter how you looked at it, he seemed like a top-tier expert!

The cool factor alone deserved a solid 90!

“Sasuke, come with me. That thing on your neck can’t be treated by normal means.”

Sasuke gave Kakashi a cold glance.

He didn’t trust a single person from Konoha.

Out of the corner of his eye, he glanced at Itsuki.

Itsuki nodded slightly.

He could naturally solve Sasuke’s problem.

However,

That would reveal his own identity.

At this point, both Konoha and Itsuki himself were playing dumb, not wanting to expose anything.

Everyone was playing a role!

Everyone had their own goals!

That being the case,

Kakashi stepping in was the best option!

Genma Shiranui stepped forward and announced, “The preliminaries continue! Next group, come up!”

...

*Backstage*

Kakashi, just like in the original story, took Sasuke and used a sealing technique to lock the curse mark.

Itsuki watched them leave, then glanced at Rock Lee.

The expression on Lee’s face was one of utter disappointment.

It was like his beloved goddess had been through too much in one day and was on the verge of breaking down.

Quite surprising.

Sasuke’s Lion Combo, which defeated his opponent, was different from the original story.

It was much more refined!

Hadn’t he learned it during their sparring before the exams?

He must have copied it when Lee fought the Sound ninja to protect Sasuke in the Forest of Death.

So,

It was even more polished than in the original!

It was almost a perfect recreation of Lee’s Front Lotus.

The Eight Gates!

Could Sasuke learn it?

Itsuki shifted his gaze to Might Guy.

This was the only person in Konoha that Itsuki truly feared.

In his past life, people online jokingly called him "Emperor Kai," the one who almost kicked the final boss to death.

Of course,

Itsuki wasn’t afraid of him!

Even though Guy almost kicked Uchiha Madara to death, Uchiha Itsuki was a different story.

Itsuki’s obsession with the Flying Thunder God technique was precisely to counter Guy's Eight Gates.

No matter how fast your body is, can you be faster than the Flying Thunder God?

Flesh is still flesh!

But the Flying Thunder God is a space-time technique.

As long as you can’t land a hit on me, your most powerful attacks become useless.

“By the way!”

Itsuki turned towards where Kakashi had taken Sasuke, his body slowly disappearing.

Orochimaru would surely come to see Sasuke, and Itsuki wanted to drop by as well.

Might as well give Orochimaru-sensei a warning.

Sasuke was from his clan, from his village, and Orochimaru had the audacity to put a curse mark on him? That was just plain disrespectful!

“Second round, begin!”

Genma Shiranui’s voice echoed from behind.

...

“What is this?”

Sasuke panted slightly, watching Kakashi carve symbols on the ground.

“A sealing technique,” Kakashi replied calmly. “For someone like you, it’s too early to understand.”

“You’re right, I don’t understand,” Sasuke said. “I’ve only seen Itsuki use sealing techniques, and it always seemed so simple.”

He didn’t say the rest, but his eyes conveyed everything.

Look at you, jumping around all over the place—it’s exhausting just watching!

Kakashi: “…”

Thanks!

I’m flattered you’d compare me to that monster.

Perhaps out of frustration, Kakashi’s movements were a bit rough.

Several times, Sasuke winced in pain, gritting his teeth.

Once the symbols were finished, Kakashi quickly formed hand signs.

“Seal!”

All the runes he’d carved began moving like tadpoles, quickly converging on Sasuke’s curse mark, forming a circle around it.

“When the curse mark reacts again, this Evil Sealing Method will suppress it.”

“But…”

“It depends on your own willpower. If you doubt your own strength, the seal will lose its effect.”

Kakashi’s voice was calm.

Tap, tap, tap!

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps echoed.

Orochimaru’s raspy voice rang out: “You’ve learned sealing techniques, Kakashi. You’ve grown stronger.”

Kakashi’s body stiffened, and he whipped around, eyes wide with shock. “You... It’s you…!”

“Orochimaru!”

“Long time no see, Kakashi!”

Orochimaru smiled wickedly, hands behind his back as he casually walked over.

“But…”

“Kakashi, my target isn’t you; it’s the boy behind you!”

Orochimaru grinned, his expression cold and sinister.

Kakashi’s face grew serious, and he said in a low voice, “Uchiha Sasuke? Why are you after him?”

“You’re lucky!”

Orochimaru looked down at Kakashi and said, “You already possess that thing.”

“... The Sharingan!”

Kakashi’s expression changed slightly. “You’re after the Sharingan? That’s impossible!”

In disbelief, he continued, “Someone of your status and power wouldn’t have trouble acquiring a Sharingan.”

“Of course!”

Orochimaru smirked. “But that has nothing to do with you.”

“Teacher, does it have something to do with me?”

A soft voice whispered in Orochimaru’s ear.

It was close—very close!

Orochimaru’s body tensed up, and like a snake, he instantly sprang to the side.

“I-Itsuki…”

Orochimaru gasped for breath, trying to calm himself before smiling. “Are you angry? Because I went after Uchiha Sasuke?”

Itsuki glanced at Sasuke and said, “Sasuke won’t be handed over to you. As for the curse mark you placed on him, Itachi will come looking for you. Teacher, I hope you can escape from Itachi.”

Orochimaru: “…”

Escape from Itachi?

Is Uchiha Itachi really that strong?

Orochimaru trusted Itsuki’s judgment to some extent, and his expression grew more serious.

Then!

Both of them turned their gazes toward Kakashi.

Whoosh!

Kakashi’s body trembled in disbelief.

Damn it!

All his aura of a skilled warrior was gone.

Like a frightened rabbit, he just wanted to curl up in a corner and shiver in fear, maybe even scream.

These two monsters!

Two super-monsters, gathered together. How pitiful was he?

“Kakashi!”

Itsuki smiled and said, “You’re not about to tell us you have the strength to take us down with you, right?”

Kakashi: “…”

Do you think I’m stupid?

Take you both down?

With what?

You two monsters, stay away from me!

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 190: Little Hinata, Transformation!

"The winner, Shino Aburame!"

At this moment.

During the preliminary matches, Shino Aburame claimed victory.

This quiet boy showcased his calm and collected demeanor.

Throughout the match, he completely dominated Sound Ninja Zaku, who wasn't weak by any means!

Even though the Jonin remained silent, many of them showed their approval of Shino Aburame.

Shino Aburame was privately referred to by many Jonin as the "perfect ninja."

This was because he was proficient in all three ninja arts: ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu.

Moreover, he had impressive leadership abilities.

Even when faced with powerful enemies, he always responded calmly.

Because of his insects, the Aburame clan had a natural resistance to genjutsu.

Although quiet and not fond of speaking, he had gained the deep trust of his comrades.

If nothing unexpected happens, within the next ten years, Shino will become another Shibi Aburame.

He will be a pillar of strength for the Hidden Leaf Village.

Even the Third Hokage acknowledged this with a slight nod.

The Aburame clan was not a small one.

In the Hidden Leaf, they held a status comparable to that of the Ino-Shika-Cho trio.

They were definitely worth fostering ties with!

...

"Orochimaru-sensei!"

Itsuki looked at Sasuke and said slowly, "This is the last time. If you lay a hand on any Uchiha again, don't blame me for being harsh."

Orochimaru grinned and said, "Itsuki-kun, I didn't know you had such deep feelings for the Uchiha?"

As a cold-blooded snake, he had once sensed a kindred spirit in Itsuki.

Itsuki was cold-blooded too.

However, his coldness was selective.

Aside from a few people he cared about, he was indifferent to everyone else.

Itsuki had once felt the same way about the Uchiha.

This was one of the reasons why Orochimaru agreed to take him as a student.

Therefore!

When he heard that Itsuki Uchiha had defected from the Leaf, taken the Uchiha with him, and established a new ninja village, Orochimaru was quite surprised.

Itsuki spoke calmly, "Because I am the leader of the Village Hidden in Flames, the Mokage!"

"Heh."

Orochimaru chuckled softly and said, "Alright, I get it. As long as I have Sasuke, I don't care about the other Uchiha."

Of course!

Even if he did care, he couldn't win against them.

If he could, Itsuki Uchiha's body would be the best option, but Orochimaru lacked the courage to try.

During the Akatsuki's internal conflict, Itsuki had demonstrated his immense power.

In a playful manner, he had the powerful Kage-level Kakuzu in the palm of his hand.

Orochimaru reluctantly took his eyes off Sasuke.

If Itsuki weren’t here, he would have definitely tried to take Sasuke away.

But the current situation was different from the original story.

In the original, Sasuke had no future in the Leaf; he was an outcast, burdened with a deep hatred.

So, Orochimaru wasn’t worried at all.

It was only a matter of time before Sasuke left the Leaf.

His enmity with the village was inevitable!

But now, the entire Uchiha clan had settled in the Village Hidden in Flames, starting a new life.

And their lives were quite good.

Sasuke wouldn’t abandon his parents and clan just to pursue power.

Besides, how could Orochimaru's guidance compare to the teachings of the Uchiha's Jonin?

Even when Sasuke was in the Leaf, he had received personal guidance from Itsuki.

That alone surpassed Orochimaru by a mile!

Itsuki smiled faintly and glanced at Kakashi.

Kakashi instinctively shrank back.

Though it was pointless, he tried to hide in the shadows of a corner.

You can’t see me!

You can’t see me!

You can’t see me!

Both Orochimaru and Itsuki left.

Only after they were long gone did Kakashi hurriedly pick up Sasuke and rush him to the medical ninja, then went off in a hurry to see the Third Hokage.

Damn it!

The entire Leaf now had not only Itsuki Uchiha but also a poisonous snake in Orochimaru.

This was going to have a major impact on their plans.

Sure enough!

Upon hearing the news about Orochimaru, both the Third Hokage and Danzo looked grim.

The Third Hokage shifted his gaze to Danzo.

Danzo grumbled, "Why are you looking at me? I didn’t bring Orochimaru here. Or are you still suspecting me?"

The Third Hokage calmly said, "You didn’t bring him here, but can you honestly say you don’t have ties with Orochimaru?"

Danzo was speechless.

Since Orochimaru had begun his human experiments, Danzo had been in contact with him, providing funding and materials.

Of course!

Could the Third Hokage really claim he didn’t know?

If so, he might as well have wasted all those years as Hokage.

"What do you want to do?"

Danzo frowned.

"Contact Orochimaru. At the very least, make sure he doesn’t stir up trouble during this time!"

The Third Hokage said each word slowly and deliberately, "We need to deal with Itsuki Uchiha first. Whatever Orochimaru is up to, it can wait!"

Danzo pondered for a moment and said, "Just talking to him might not work, but if we offer him something…"

"Do whatever you need to!"

The Third Hokage’s expression didn’t change. He said indifferently, "If this plan works, you’ll be Hokage, and you can hand over the entire village to Orochimaru if you want. That will be your problem, Fifth Hokage."

This time, it was Danzo's turn to look grim.

Damn it!

He had gotten used to it.

He had forgotten that he was still just the heir to the Hokage, the next in line.

If they gave Orochimaru too many resources, wouldn’t he be the one to lose?

That would be like pulling money out of his own pocket.

No way!

Absolutely not!

Danzo Shimura would not suffer such a loss!

"I understand!"

Danzo's eyes flashed with ruthlessness as he said, "Hiruzen, don’t blame me for this…"

The Third Hokage sneered and said, "All I care about now is Itsuki Uchiha. If the plan to deal with him succeeds, everything will be negotiable. I’ll step down, and you’ll step up. If it fails, we won’t have anything to talk about. Just make sure you leave some hope for our clans."

Danzo's face twisted with malice as he said, "I understand. I’ll take care of Orochimaru!"

He turned and left.

The Third Hokage silently watched him go and suddenly chuckled.

... Just like always!

Danzo wouldn’t know that behind his back, the Third Hokage was sneering as well.

... Just like always!

...

In the preliminary rounds.

The screen displayed the next matchup:

Hinata Hyuga vs. Neji Hyuga!

"Interesting!"

Many Jonin had this thought.

They stood by.

Some stood!

Some sat!

They appeared lazy, but their interest was piqued.

Even the recently returned Third Hokage had a hint of surprise in his eyes.

The odds of these two facing each other weren’t high.

Was this fate?

The branch family of the Hyuga going against the main family!

Neji Hyuga smiled coldly as he walked forward, glaring at Hinata with deep malice.

Hinata hesitated, nervously standing before Neji.

"It’s been a while, Lady Hinata!"

Neji's words were laced with strong sarcasm.

He was breathing heavily, barely able to hold back his urge to attack.

Defeat her!

Maybe even kill her!

"Yes!"

Hinata nodded. When she looked up again, she had changed.

The timid little girl had transformed into a fiery, bold fighter.

She smiled provocatively, her expression defiant, and said, "Isn’t this the greatest genius of the Hyuga family, Neji Hyuga? The branch family prodigy, aiming for the stars. Why are you still on the ground? I thought you’d be flying by now."

As soon as she said this, everyone present was stunned.

Especially those who knew Hinata, their jaws dropped.

What the hell? Is this really Hinata?

Or some kind of street punk?

(End of Chapter)