Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

Uzumaki Raiden and the others finally arrived at Konoha's camp in the Rain Country frontline. At the gate of the camp, Uzumaki Raiden saw Orochimaru, whom he hadn't seen in many years, and Danzo, who had escaped from the battlefield of General Mountain a few days ago!

Enemies do not necessarily show hostility when they meet. Uzumaki Raiden even greeted Shimura Danzo with a smile:

"Long time no see, Senior Brother Orochimaru, and Lord Danzo!"

Raiden's resentment toward Danzo had been firmly established since the day Danzo led others to plant a curse seal on him when he lived alone. However, on the surface, the two did not share an irreparable enmity. On General Mountain, Raiden dared to act because Danzo had been acting covertly. Even if Raiden had killed him, he could have found countless excuses to explain himself upon returning to the village.

At that time, the Third Hokage would not have punished Raiden severely over the death of just one person. At most, he might have been grounded—a punishment Raiden considered negligible.

But if Raiden were to attack Danzo in front of Konoha's camp, under everyone's watchful eyes, he would bear the title of a rogue ninja. This label would not be an issue for him personally, but Raiden was no longer alone.

Raiden now had family, friends, subordinates, assets, and influence within Konoha.

Moreover, betraying Konoha held no tangible benefits for Raiden. Establishing a new organization and regaining the same level of power and status would not be easy. At this point, maintaining a cooperative yet cautious relationship with Danzo and Orochimaru was necessary.

"Let's go inside. These days, your name is quite renowned in the ninja world, Raiden," Orochimaru said, pointing to the camp entrance before walking in. After him, Raiden quickly followed. Shimura Danzo watched Raiden's back with killing intent in his eyes but quickly concealed it.

In the conference room:

With Uzumaki Raiden's arrival, the peace talks were officially put on the agenda. However, before that, Orochimaru needed to hold a meeting to finalize specific arrangements. Everyone was called into the conference room to discuss the details of the peace talks.

Having operated on the Rain Country front for years, Orochimaru had built a well-equipped camp. The conference room was nearly the size of two standard classrooms, enough to accommodate all the senior officers. At its center was a massive square table surrounded by 30 chairs, with additional stools lining the corners for guards, clerks, or lower-ranked ninjas.

Raiden and Fugaku arrived early, led by Orochimaru. The ten subordinates they brought were sent to the medical team, as many had sustained injuries during recent skirmishes.

"Raiden, let's sit down first," Orochimaru said.

"Our meeting today will address the peace talks and finalize specific arrangements. The Third Hokage has entrusted you with this task, and everyone will listen to your guidance."

"I heard that before arriving, you fought the leader of the Rain Country, Hanzō of the Salamander, and joined forces with Uchiha Fugaku to kill him. How did that happen?"

After sitting in the main seat, Orochimaru casually brought up the topic, though it was clearly a point of great curiosity. Even Danzo, seated nearby, perked up at the mention of Hanzo.

Danzo, having cooperated with Hanzo to suppress the Akatsuki organization, had retreated decisively when confronted by Uzumaki Raiden. Hearing the news of Hanzo's death had shocked him. Danzo and his team had failed to defeat Hanzo even when fighting together.

Back then, Hanzo spared the legendary Sannin only out of wariness of Konoha's forces. Those unaware of the details of that battle might think the "Sannin" title was impressive, but those familiar with the truth often scoffed at it. Over the years, however, the three had proven their strength, solidifying the title's significance. This, in turn, highlighted Hanzo's formidable reputation.

Raiden replied calmly, "That was part of my plan. Hanzo, as the leader of the Rain Country, was a powerful and renowned ninja. His presence wasn't in Konoha's best interests. When the opportunity arose, I took it."

"I also intended to inform you, Senior Brother, about supporting an organization called 'Akatsuki' in the Rain Country. Its leader, a disciple of Jiraiya-sensei, aligns with Konoha's ideals. Unlike Hanzo, Akatsuki would be easier to control."

Raiden's confident words convinced both Orochimaru and Danzo. Though Raiden did harbor such intentions, his true goal in confronting Hanzo was to protect Nagato. Yahiko's survival was key to ensuring Nagato wouldn't be easily manipulated, though the threat of Black Zetsu remained a lingering concern. Supporting Akatsuki also aimed to strengthen Yahiko's position and make it harder for Black Zetsu to interfere.

"It seems you've thought this through. Impressive. In just a few years, you've grown strong enough to defeat Hanzo, the so-called demigod. Your title, 'Konoha's Thunder,' will surely become even more renowned," Orochimaru remarked, narrowing his eyes.

"If you managed to defeat Hanzo, does that mean you've mastered the Nine-Tails' power?" he asked.

Raiden replied, "No, I can only access a fraction of the Nine-Tails' power. Defeating Hanzo required extensive preparation and effort."

Raiden deliberately omitted Fugaku's role, blending truth with lies to protect him. Sharingan, particularly the Mangekyō Sharingan, could provoke dangerous interest. Even Shisui, with his Mangekyō, had fallen victim to Danzo's schemes. Raiden did not want Fugaku to face a similar fate.

Orochimaru inquired further, but Raiden answered casually, sidestepping detailed explanations. Before long, a ninja entered the room, silencing Orochimaru.

"Lord Orochimaru, I've arrived!"

The newcomer, a middle-aged man, bowed to Orochimaru and Danzo before taking a seat. His gaze shifted to Raiden, whose calm demeanor exuded authority, reminiscent of the Third Hokage.

"Is that the legendary Uzumaki Raiden? As expected of the Hokage's pupil—what a presence!" the man thought, awed by Raiden's aura.

More ninjas soon arrived, filling the room. Many greeted Raiden with familiarity, while others, meeting him for the first time, observed him with curiosity.

"Now that everyone is here, let's begin the meeting!" Orochimaru announced.

He introduced Raiden, emphasizing his role as the Hokage's pupil and the leader of the peace talks. All eyes turned to Raiden, whose commanding presence silenced the room.

"Then let me speak," Raiden said with a smile, rising to address the gathering.

(End of Chapter)

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