[This Chapter Is Sponsored by Armin Hirsch! Everyone, please thank him in the comment!]
Lover!
On the balcony under the bright sunlight, Uchiha Yoru calmly stated a fact, a scene that even Jiraiya, who has witnessed countless storms, couldn't help but widen his eyes in surprise. After a long pause, he gave a thumbs up.
"Brat! I don't know if I should call you honest or a scoundrel for this," Jiraiya teased.
In response to Jiraiya's jest, Uchiha Yoru casually glanced at the shadows watching them from all around, and with a self-deprecating smile said, "I'm always in danger myself. Even Orochimaru's current situation was unforeseen. The identity of a lover is good, as it provides an exit strategy."
Under Uchiha Yoru's sarcastic gaze, Jiraiya naturally noticed the ANBU members watching from the shadows.
For the prominent Uchiha clan, having multiple wives wasn't an issue, but once someone is associated with the Uchiha name, there's no turning back.
Jiraiya felt a weight in his heart. The kid has a good heart, risking everything for Orochimaru, and has sacrificed a lot for the girl earlier. Thinking of this, Jiraiya was infuriated by the troubles the Sarutobi clan caused, making the girl act as a spy, hoping no issues arise in the future.
"Kid, I heard your analysis about the ninja world. It seems you anticipated its instability?"
Jiraiya, more curious about his biggest doubt than the romance, was met with a lazy smile from Uchiha Yoru, who pointed to his head, eyes filled with a mocking humor.
"Just think more analytically, and everything becomes clear."
"Brat!"
Watching Jiraiya's exasperated expression, Uchiha Yoru couldn't help but chuckle.
"Jiraiya-san, no one anticipated Orochimaru's situation. A candidate for Hokage being exiled, narrowly avoiding complete ruin. Such instability in the ninja world's history is rare."
"After the Third Great Ninja War, with the chaos caused by the Nine-Tails and the village losing the Fourth Hokage, the borders became unstable. Orochimaru's situation arose just when the Konoha had no time to breathe. It would be strange if the borders remained peaceful."
Uchiha Yoru continued with a self-mocking smile, "Having experienced the Third War, I understand the smaller nations. They're envious of the great nations but fear them, always wanting to incite war between them. They hope to rise, just like the Land of Rain."
"The hatred from the Third War continues. All the great nations want to see unrest at the Konoha's borders. If the Konoha gets stuck in endless minor conflicts, while the other nations recuperate, ambitious individuals would surely capitalize on the current instability."
Listening to the analysis of the 16-year-old Uchiha Yoru, Jiraiya was secretly amazed.
"No wonder Orochimaru values you. Your intelligence is comparable to Minato from his younger days."
Jiraiya was deeply impressed by Yoru's perspective, which seemed fit for a Hokage. It's just unfortunate his surname is Uchiha.
"Is this all your own analysis?"
Jiraiya, although having witnessed it, still found it astonishing. If Orochimaru became the Fifth Hokage, Yoru might truly become the Sixth. That might bridge the gap between the Uchiha and the village.
Uchiha Yoru laughed lightly and waved, "Having been under constant watch, I've had a lot of time to think. It feels like I'm imprisoned."
With only irony and calmness about his situation, Uchiha Yoru's demeanor struck Jiraiya as deeply ironic. A Hokage candidate was exiled, and his student is being watched. Even at his skill level, facing the village's political might, he can only remain silent.
Being a shadow-level ninja is just a deterrent. It doesn't mean one can overpower everything. Even Pain with the Rinnegan had to work from the shadows and gather strength.
"Kid, you're impressive. But don't worry, you'll be free soon."
Facing the turmoil that has arisen in the village, Jiraiya feels both frustrated and helpless. On one hand, his comrade Orochimaru has reached a point of no return. On the other hand, there are the family members of his teacher.
Although he was furious at what his teacher's daughter-in-law had done, it was too late to rectify things, even if she were to be killed. So, he chose to remain silent.
What could he do? He could eliminate his teacher's daughter-in-law and son, but then what? News of Orochimaru's human experiments had already leaked, tarnishing his reputation. Clinging to it would only cause more chaos in the village. It might be better to bring an early end to this matter to minimize the village's losses.
"Free?" Uchiha Yoru showed a meaningful smile as he turned to look at Jiraiya. The three Sannin might have different personalities, but to say they don't understand politics is a stretch.
"It's to minimize losses, isn't it? The village needs someone with the identity of Orochimaru's disciple, like me, to stabilize the frontlines. Especially with the upheaval caused by Orochimaru's exile. My presence and strength could stabilize the situation."
Jiraiya, taken aback by the candid words, scratched his head and laughed, "You really don't give elders any face. You know that Orochimaru is on the front lines and many shinobi have benefited from him. They naturally need to see you. After all, it's also a good thing for you."
"Like becoming the hero of the Konoha," Jiraiya teased with a playful look, "You wouldn't want the shinobi who once followed your teacher to be ostracized, right? Orochimaru is only temporarily gone. He'll return someday. Shouldn't you, as his disciple, protect the connections he left behind?"
"Perhaps, when you aspire to become the Hokage, these people will support you."
In the face of Jiraiya's temptations, Uchiha Yoru's face also broke into a smile. Jiraiya's last statement was clearly a joke. But Yoru's smile was intriguing.
"Jiraiya-sama, you're right. If my teacher chose to leave, then as his student, it's my duty to protect what he left behind."
With a sincere smile, Uchiha Yoru looked at the bright sunlight and murmured, "When I become Hokage, I want the sky to be as clear as this, with no clouds blocking the sun."
Jiraiya, hearing this, was taken aback and seeing the confident smile on the boy's face, he too couldn't help but smile.
However, beneath the sunny smile, Uchiha Yoru was actually sneering inside. With Orochimaru gone, he was waiting for his opportunity unless the Konoha decided to eliminate everyone associated with Orochimaru, ignoring the massive casualties on the front lines.
He knew the village wouldn't do that. Doing so would make Orochimaru a full-fledged rogue ninja. The village couldn't afford such turmoil.
The Third Hokage isn't a fool. Clearly, it's best to let things rest. So, Yoru waited for his chance to take over the power left by his teacher openly with the village's backing.
The village wasn't foolish either. With Orochimaru gone, the big ship had sunk, turning into many small boats. With the border in chaos, they had no time to rescue and comfort all the small boats and could only send him.
When he stabilizes these aimless boats and brings them back safely, only time will tell if these boats will return to that big ship.
However, just how large Uchiha Yoru's ship will be depends on how much prestige he can gain on the frontlines.
"Yoru!"
At this moment, a call came. Jiraiya, seeing the situation, widened his eyes, "Kid, how many lovers have you found?"
Under Jiraiya's envious gaze, a woman dressed in a white bandage dress with curly black hair and deep red eyes, Kurenai, quickly approached.
"Jiraiya-sama."
A shadow flashed, and Kurenai appeared on the balcony, bowing respectfully to Jiraiya. Jiraiya nodded slightly and then hurriedly said to Uchiha Yoru, "Yoru, it's bad. Anko has been taken to the interrogation room."
"What?!"
Hearing the news about Anko, Uchiha Yoru frowned and asked, "What happened? Wasn't Anko on a mission? Why was she taken to the interrogation room?"
"I'm not sure, but I heard that Anko participated in Orochimaru-sama's human experiments and was discovered by the Anbu at the border of the Land of Water. She was brought back and taken into custody because of this."
Hearing Kurenai's words, Uchiha Yoru showed anger, "Let's go! Orochimaru-sensei just left, and now some people want to show off their power. Why don't they interrogate the root department?"
Jiraiya tried to calm him down, but Uchiha Yoru was furious, and his anger rallied those loyal to Orochimaru in the building.
Jiraiya sighed at the impulsive young man but admired his passion for his comrades.
Meanwhile, Yoru's anger was partly real and partly a front. This situation provided him with an opportunity.
He and Anko were both Orochimaru's disciples. He had to protect her; otherwise, anyone could bully them in the future.
…
The scenes around swiftly flew past his sight. Uchiha Yoru leaped across the rooftops of Konoha, and as he swiftly moved without anyone monitoring, he asked the following Kurenai in a deep voice, "Yuhi, what exactly happened to Anko?"
A serious look was evident on Kurenai's face, "I don't know the specifics, but I know that Anko was taken into the interrogation room. That's why I informed you."
"Also, don't act rashly. At this moment, you're already out front." Even though Kurenai was a spy sent by the Third Hokage, she genuinely cared for Uchiha Yoru.
In Kurenai's eyes, while she had feelings for Uchiha Yoru, it was also an opportunity to investigate the reasons behind the Nine-Tails, especially since it was linked to her father's death.
Therefore, without conflict, Kurenai calmly weighed the pros and cons, finally saying, "Yoru, I'm sorry I couldn't help with Orochimaru's matter. But right now, your and Anko's identities are extremely sensitive."
"Don't worry, Jiraiya has already said that he hopes I appear on the frontlines as Orochimaru's disciple. This proves that the matter is over. So, don't fret. This is likely someone trying to undermine the last of our teacher's prestige."
If Yuzu Anko is truly controlled, it signifies Orochimaru's reputation is completely tarnished in Konoha. If anyone can control it, then it isn't a concern.
Reputation is built over time, but destroying it can be achieved with a single minor act.
"Yoru, your current position is very dangerous."
Seeing Kurenai's concerned expression, Uchiha Yoru's face revealed a determined look, "But this position also wields power!"
Turning to face each other, Uchiha Yoru didn't hide his ambition for power, stating emphatically, "Only with enough power can one go further! Higher! Only then can we uncover the perpetrator behind that night of the Nine-Tails. It's not just a vendetta for your father, but a grudge held by the whole of Konoha."
Upon hearing this, Kurenai went silent. A man with power is alluring. She also knew in her heart she wanted to investigate the figure behind the Nine-Tails. Wasn't this also the aim of the mission given to her by the Third Hokage?
"The allure of power is lethal, Yoru! I hope you can maintain your original intention."
Being an experienced female ninja, Kurenai had seen many ninjas corrupted by power. She sighed softly, and as she swiftly ran, the breeze blew through her black hair, revealing her captivating red eyes.
A smile slowly formed, and Kurenai, with an alluring laugh, said, "But a Yoru with power is also full of charm."
She never hid her feelings. It's in a ninja's nature to admire the strong.
[This Chapter Is Sponsored by Armin Hirsch! Everyone, please thank him in the comment!]
Lover!
On the balcony under the bright sunlight, Uchiha Yoru calmly stated a fact, a scene that even Jiraiya, who has witnessed countless storms, couldn't help but widen his eyes in surprise. After a long pause, he gave a thumbs up.
"Brat! I don't know if I should call you honest or a scoundrel for this," Jiraiya teased.
In response to Jiraiya's jest, Uchiha Yoru casually glanced at the shadows watching them from all around, and with a self-deprecating smile said, "I'm always in danger myself. Even Orochimaru's current situation was unforeseen. The identity of a lover is good, as it provides an exit strategy."
Under Uchiha Yoru's sarcastic gaze, Jiraiya naturally noticed the ANBU members watching from the shadows.
For the prominent Uchiha clan, having multiple wives wasn't an issue, but once someone is associated with the Uchiha name, there's no turning back.
Jiraiya felt a weight in his heart. The kid has a good heart, risking everything for Orochimaru, and has sacrificed a lot for the girl earlier. Thinking of this, Jiraiya was infuriated by the troubles the Sarutobi clan caused, making the girl act as a spy, hoping no issues arise in the future.
"Kid, I heard your analysis about the ninja world. It seems you anticipated its instability?"
Jiraiya, more curious about his biggest doubt than the romance, was met with a lazy smile from Uchiha Yoru, who pointed to his head, eyes filled with a mocking humor.
"Just think more analytically, and everything becomes clear."
"Brat!"
Watching Jiraiya's exasperated expression, Uchiha Yoru couldn't help but chuckle.
"Jiraiya-san, no one anticipated Orochimaru's situation. A candidate for Hokage being exiled, narrowly avoiding complete ruin. Such instability in the ninja world's history is rare."
"After the Third Great Ninja War, with the chaos caused by the Nine-Tails and the village losing the Fourth Hokage, the borders became unstable. Orochimaru's situation arose just when the Konoha had no time to breathe. It would be strange if the borders remained peaceful."
Uchiha Yoru continued with a self-mocking smile, "Having experienced the Third War, I understand the smaller nations. They're envious of the great nations but fear them, always wanting to incite war between them. They hope to rise, just like the Land of Rain."
"The hatred from the Third War continues. All the great nations want to see unrest at the Konoha's borders. If the Konoha gets stuck in endless minor conflicts, while the other nations recuperate, ambitious individuals would surely capitalize on the current instability."
Listening to the analysis of the 16-year-old Uchiha Yoru, Jiraiya was secretly amazed.
"No wonder Orochimaru values you. Your intelligence is comparable to Minato from his younger days."
Jiraiya was deeply impressed by Yoru's perspective, which seemed fit for a Hokage. It's just unfortunate his surname is Uchiha.
"Is this all your own analysis?"
Jiraiya, although having witnessed it, still found it astonishing. If Orochimaru became the Fifth Hokage, Yoru might truly become the Sixth. That might bridge the gap between the Uchiha and the village.
Uchiha Yoru laughed lightly and waved, "Having been under constant watch, I've had a lot of time to think. It feels like I'm imprisoned."
With only irony and calmness about his situation, Uchiha Yoru's demeanor struck Jiraiya as deeply ironic. A Hokage candidate was exiled, and his student is being watched. Even at his skill level, facing the village's political might, he can only remain silent.
Being a shadow-level ninja is just a deterrent. It doesn't mean one can overpower everything. Even Pain with the Rinnegan had to work from the shadows and gather strength.
"Kid, you're impressive. But don't worry, you'll be free soon."
Facing the turmoil that has arisen in the village, Jiraiya feels both frustrated and helpless. On one hand, his comrade Orochimaru has reached a point of no return. On the other hand, there are the family members of his teacher.
Although he was furious at what his teacher's daughter-in-law had done, it was too late to rectify things, even if she were to be killed. So, he chose to remain silent.
What could he do? He could eliminate his teacher's daughter-in-law and son, but then what? News of Orochimaru's human experiments had already leaked, tarnishing his reputation. Clinging to it would only cause more chaos in the village. It might be better to bring an early end to this matter to minimize the village's losses.
"Free?" Uchiha Yoru showed a meaningful smile as he turned to look at Jiraiya. The three Sannin might have different personalities, but to say they don't understand politics is a stretch.
"It's to minimize losses, isn't it? The village needs someone with the identity of Orochimaru's disciple, like me, to stabilize the frontlines. Especially with the upheaval caused by Orochimaru's exile. My presence and strength could stabilize the situation."
Jiraiya, taken aback by the candid words, scratched his head and laughed, "You really don't give elders any face. You know that Orochimaru is on the front lines and many shinobi have benefited from him. They naturally need to see you. After all, it's also a good thing for you."
"Like becoming the hero of the Konoha," Jiraiya teased with a playful look, "You wouldn't want the shinobi who once followed your teacher to be ostracized, right? Orochimaru is only temporarily gone. He'll return someday. Shouldn't you, as his disciple, protect the connections he left behind?"
"Perhaps, when you aspire to become the Hokage, these people will support you."
In the face of Jiraiya's temptations, Uchiha Yoru's face also broke into a smile. Jiraiya's last statement was clearly a joke. But Yoru's smile was intriguing.
"Jiraiya-sama, you're right. If my teacher chose to leave, then as his student, it's my duty to protect what he left behind."
With a sincere smile, Uchiha Yoru looked at the bright sunlight and murmured, "When I become Hokage, I want the sky to be as clear as this, with no clouds blocking the sun."
Jiraiya, hearing this, was taken aback and seeing the confident smile on the boy's face, he too couldn't help but smile.
However, beneath the sunny smile, Uchiha Yoru was actually sneering inside. With Orochimaru gone, he was waiting for his opportunity unless the Konoha decided to eliminate everyone associated with Orochimaru, ignoring the massive casualties on the front lines.
He knew the village wouldn't do that. Doing so would make Orochimaru a full-fledged rogue ninja. The village couldn't afford such turmoil.
The Third Hokage isn't a fool. Clearly, it's best to let things rest. So, Yoru waited for his chance to take over the power left by his teacher openly with the village's backing.
The village wasn't foolish either. With Orochimaru gone, the big ship had sunk, turning into many small boats. With the border in chaos, they had no time to rescue and comfort all the small boats and could only send him.
When he stabilizes these aimless boats and brings them back safely, only time will tell if these boats will return to that big ship.
However, just how large Uchiha Yoru's ship will be depends on how much prestige he can gain on the frontlines.
"Yoru!"
At this moment, a call came. Jiraiya, seeing the situation, widened his eyes, "Kid, how many lovers have you found?"
Under Jiraiya's envious gaze, a woman dressed in a white bandage dress with curly black hair and deep red eyes, Kurenai, quickly approached.
"Jiraiya-sama."
A shadow flashed, and Kurenai appeared on the balcony, bowing respectfully to Jiraiya. Jiraiya nodded slightly and then hurriedly said to Uchiha Yoru, "Yoru, it's bad. Anko has been taken to the interrogation room."
"What?!"
Hearing the news about Anko, Uchiha Yoru frowned and asked, "What happened? Wasn't Anko on a mission? Why was she taken to the interrogation room?"
"I'm not sure, but I heard that Anko participated in Orochimaru-sama's human experiments and was discovered by the Anbu at the border of the Land of Water. She was brought back and taken into custody because of this."
Hearing Kurenai's words, Uchiha Yoru showed anger, "Let's go! Orochimaru-sensei just left, and now some people want to show off their power. Why don't they interrogate the root department?"
Jiraiya tried to calm him down, but Uchiha Yoru was furious, and his anger rallied those loyal to Orochimaru in the building.
Jiraiya sighed at the impulsive young man but admired his passion for his comrades.
Meanwhile, Yoru's anger was partly real and partly a front. This situation provided him with an opportunity.
He and Anko were both Orochimaru's disciples. He had to protect her; otherwise, anyone could bully them in the future.
…
The scenes around swiftly flew past his sight. Uchiha Yoru leaped across the rooftops of Konoha, and as he swiftly moved without anyone monitoring, he asked the following Kurenai in a deep voice, "Yuhi, what exactly happened to Anko?"
A serious look was evident on Kurenai's face, "I don't know the specifics, but I know that Anko was taken into the interrogation room. That's why I informed you."
"Also, don't act rashly. At this moment, you're already out front." Even though Kurenai was a spy sent by the Third Hokage, she genuinely cared for Uchiha Yoru.
In Kurenai's eyes, while she had feelings for Uchiha Yoru, it was also an opportunity to investigate the reasons behind the Nine-Tails, especially since it was linked to her father's death.
Therefore, without conflict, Kurenai calmly weighed the pros and cons, finally saying, "Yoru, I'm sorry I couldn't help with Orochimaru's matter. But right now, your and Anko's identities are extremely sensitive."
"Don't worry, Jiraiya has already said that he hopes I appear on the frontlines as Orochimaru's disciple. This proves that the matter is over. So, don't fret. This is likely someone trying to undermine the last of our teacher's prestige."
If Yuzu Anko is truly controlled, it signifies Orochimaru's reputation is completely tarnished in Konoha. If anyone can control it, then it isn't a concern.
Reputation is built over time, but destroying it can be achieved with a single minor act.
"Yoru, your current position is very dangerous."
Seeing Kurenai's concerned expression, Uchiha Yoru's face revealed a determined look, "But this position also wields power!"
Turning to face each other, Uchiha Yoru didn't hide his ambition for power, stating emphatically, "Only with enough power can one go further! Higher! Only then can we uncover the perpetrator behind that night of the Nine-Tails. It's not just a vendetta for your father, but a grudge held by the whole of Konoha."
Upon hearing this, Kurenai went silent. A man with power is alluring. She also knew in her heart she wanted to investigate the figure behind the Nine-Tails. Wasn't this also the aim of the mission given to her by the Third Hokage?
"The allure of power is lethal, Yoru! I hope you can maintain your original intention."
Being an experienced female ninja, Kurenai had seen many ninjas corrupted by power. She sighed softly, and as she swiftly ran, the breeze blew through her black hair, revealing her captivating red eyes.
A smile slowly formed, and Kurenai, with an alluring laugh, said, "But a Yoru with power is also full of charm."
She never hid her feelings. It's in a ninja's nature to admire the strong.
