Chapter 707: Konoha's Relentless Schemes!!!

Chapter 707: Konoha's Relentless Schemes!!!

Kabuto was slightly startled. It felt like he had gotten up from a long sleep. He saw Orochimaru immediately and was about to speak when he realized that something was off with his body. He glanced down and his eyes widened.

He looked at Orochimaru again and asked in shock, "Is this the Second Hokage's Edo Tensei?"

Orochimaru nodded and said, "It is. How did you die and who did it?"

Kabuto let out a long sigh and said, "I've disappointed you, Orochimaru-sama. It was Hatake Kakashi."

Orochimaru asked in surprise, "Kakashi was able to kill you? How? And, why did you run into him again?"

Orochimaru suspected that Kabuto ran into Hiruzen, Jiraiya or Fujin. He didn't expect it'd be Kakashi. Kabuto answered, "It was immediately after I escaped. I thought that I had managed to get away successfully. However, he was still somehow able to track me. In addition, he was also able to sneak behind me without alerting me. I had no idea until he stabbed me with his Chidori."

Orochimaru frowned. While he knew Kakashi was strong, he didn't think he'd be strong enough to kill Kabuto in such a manner. He wondered, 'Was he putting up an act against my clone? Or did Kabuto lower his guard? Even though assassination is his speciality, he shouldn't have been able to kill Kabuto without any assistance.'

Kabuto could see Orochimaru's thoughts on his face and said, "I hadn't lowered my guard. On the contrary, I had raised it to the highest level considering the situation. However, he still managed to sneak up on me. I'm afraid that Kakashi has been hiding a considerable amount of his strength until Konoha needs him to show it. If not for the Edo Tensei jutsu, you wouldn't have found out about it either."

Orochimaru's lips curled up as he muttered, "Interesting. I didn't expect him to play such a card. I suppose I shouldn't be too surprised considering the talent he displayed in his younger days. I wonder how much more Sensei is keeping hidden."

Kabuto added, "We underestimated Konoha. Be it Fujin or Kakashi, both would be very difficult to deal with. And, we don't know how strong Might Guy truly is. If we don't make any arrangements to restrain him, he could turn the tides of the war single-handedly. Even you might not survive if he can and does open the Gate of Death.

Not to mention, since Kakashi killed me, Konoha must have read my memories. They should know that we have allied with Sunagakure and plan to attack Konoha during the final rounds. They'll be prepared."

Orochimaru replied, "It's fine. I haven't told you about the final plan. Even if they prepare, it won't have much effect on me. As long as I kill Hiruzen, any resistance they put up and losses we take are inconsequential. That said, you're right. We need to make several changes to our plans..."

Orochimaru weaved a few hand seals as he continued, "Fortunately, I've already made a few. I can't sustain the Edo Tensei for a long time yet. However, you'll play a role in the upcoming war. Even though you won't be at your full strength, you can't be killed in this state and can only be sealed. Make sure to use it to the fullest."

Kabuto nodded as Orochimaru sealed him and stepped out of his laboratory. Kimimaro and Sound Four were waiting patiently for him. He glanced at them and said, "It's time to meet up with the Kazekage. Follow me."

The six of them immediately left the hidden base and began moving towards the Land of Rivers.

In Kumogakure, the council had come together for another meeting. Even Inazuma, who had already resigned and accepted the blame for the missing ninjas was present. However, the reason for this meeting was quite different from the meetings they had been having for the past few days.

Everyone thought for a bit before agreeing that his words made sense. Even Ay was pleased. However, Inazuma said, "As good as the idea is, I'll recommend not to go overboard right now.

Don't forget Akuro's threat. Hunting Orochimaru won't be easy and you'll have to participate in it, Lord Fourth. However, if Akuro attacks the village when you're away again, it'll cause an even larger turmoil in the village."

The faces of the Kumogakure leaders became ugly on hearing Akuro's name. They hated him even more than Konoha. Even though Ay was cursed for not being in the village and Inazuma took the blame, the people in Kumogakure didn't shy away from calling other leaders incompetent and useless. They did nothing despite facing only one enemy and let him humiliate the village to this extent! The entire Kumogakure Council's reputation was at its lowest point throughout its history.

Ay said, "Don't worry, I'll be careful this time. Even if I move out, Bee will stay in the village. Even though targeting Orochimaru is a good idea, hunting down Akuro is our priority."

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement. The council continued making plans to deal with the situation and also discussed the reports sent by the ninjas to look for the missing ninjas.

In Konoha, Hiruzen and Shikaku were in Shikaku's office as he explained the defensive plans to Hiruzen. Unlike what Orochimaru and Kabuto suspected, Konoha had no access to Kabuto's memories. They didn't know how and when they would be attacked. So, Shikaku developed a comprehensive plan covering all aspects.

After going through everything, Hiruzen nodded and said, "Great work as usual, Shikaku. However..."

A worried expression appeared on his face as he asked, "Are you sure Fujin would accept this role without any complaints?"

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