The game of words between Senju Yukika and the Third Hokage came to an end with Danzo's sudden arrival.
Before heading to the frontlines, Danzo needed to be briefed on some matters by the Third, issues that clearly weren't meant for Yukika and the others to hear. And just like that, the brief meeting concluded.
As Yukika stepped out of the Hokage Building, he tilted his head back slightly, letting the harsh sunlight warm his face. The young boy took a moment to survey the surroundings of the Hokage Tower.
Eventually, a quiet sigh escaped his lips.
"He still doesn't see it."
"This village was never built by the Hokage alone."
"It was built by the many clans that call it home."
"What he doesn't understand is that by suppressing those clans and forcing them into decline, he's essentially weakening Konoha itself."
"The Senju Clan once held up the skies for Konoha. But when the Senju fell, so too did the sky."
"This village is no longer the First Shinobi Village."
He casually caught a falling leaf from the air, then crushed it effortlessly in his palm. Yukika looked toward Orochimaru, who was watching with an expression of deep appreciation.
"Listen to this kid. He's got it all figured out," Orochimaru thought, genuinely impressed.
What baffled him, however, was how a ten-year-old could grasp truths that his own sensei, the Third Hokage, seemed completely oblivious to.
"Is it a matter of intelligence?" Orochimaru wondered.
"Let's talk about the mission, Orochimaru-sensei," Yukika said, winking at him.
Orochimaru's expression turned solemn at the mention of the task.
"It's... a bit complicated," he replied.
"Konoha is sending significant reinforcements to the frontlines. Tsunade and Danzo will lead them straight to the Land of Rain."
"As for us..."
He paused, his gaze becoming clouded.
A split in forces? Or...
Was this retaliation already taking form?
Yukika's expression remained calm.
"I'm designated S-rank. You two are A-rank."
"According to intel, Kumogakure intends to use the Eight-Tails as a living weapon on the battlefield."
"My mission is to prevent them from deploying the Eight-Tails."
"On top of that, aside from taking you two as my apprentices, I was ordered to research methods that could induce a Jinchuriki into a rampage."
"Your role is to assist me with this mission."
Jinchuriki.
The Eight-Tails.
Kumogakure.
As these terms sank in, Yukika's mind raced.
Blue Bee.
Originally named Fukai, he was the Jinchuriki of the Eight-Tails before Killer Bee. His death occurred during the Second Great Ninja War, when Orochimaru caused the tailed beast to go berserk. Killer Bee was still young at the time.
So it was time for that event?
Sarutobi Hiruzen really wanted to throw him and Nawaki into this mission?
What a move.
A real gutsy play.
This mission was a dance with death.
Kumogakure had two Jinchuriki. As for why the Two-Tails wasn't being used, it made sense.
Based on records, Yugito Nii became the Two-Tails' host at the age of two, making her currently around four or five years old. Killer Bee would be only a few years older.
Even if they had immense potential, they were still just children, far from being combat-ready.
So the only real option was the Eight-Tails.
Understanding this, Yukika knew just how critical this mission was.
In the original timeline, Orochimaru pulled it off alone. But now, with Yukika and Nawaki involved, the variables had changed.
Still...
"Yukika-kun," Orochimaru called, staring directly into his eyes.
"Be honest with me. Are you afraid?"
Afraid?
Yukika placed a hand over his racing heart, noting his trembling fingers.
Am I scared?
No.
That's excitement.
A thrilling anticipation for the battle ahead!
His blood was boiling.
"Let's hit the road!"
"My fists are itching for action!"