Naruto Law of the Devil

Chapter 145: Assassination Attempt

"Tsk tsk tsk..."

"It's quite a predicament, Sarutobi-sensei."

Upon receiving the distressing news and rushing to the scene, Yu found Orochimaru's underground laboratory already reduced to rubble by Explosive Tags. Hiruzen Hokage and a group of Konoha ninjas stood amidst the debris, their appearances reflecting the chaotic situation.

"Youngster..."

"And you find it amusing to taunt me in this chaos!"

Observing Yu's leisurely arrival, adorned with a mischievous and mocking expression, Hiruzen couldn't help but harbor a sense of irritation.

Since his return from the battlefield, Hiruzen noticed a growing unruliness in Yu's demeanor—acting more freely and at times, disregarding the presence of other Konoha ninjas.

"Alright, alright..."

"As for Orochimaru's defection, my condolences, Sarutobi-sensei."

"However, don't tell me you didn't foresee today's events unfolding."

Gazing at Hiruzen, who appeared despondent and melancholic, Yu couldn't help but offer comforting words.

'In the end, I was still too soft-hearted...'

When faced with Orochimaru's malevolent intentions to kill and abduct Konoha ninjas for human experiments, Hiruzen had ultimately allowed sentimentality to prevail. He had released the once-beloved disciple, sowing the seeds for yet another upheaval in Konoha's future.

A sigh escaped from the depths of Yu's heart. 'If the day comes when I'm the defector, would you extend the same mercy?'

"So... should I track him down and intercept him now?"

Uttering these words, Yu noticed the shifting expression on Hiruzen's face, prompting him to swiftly shift the conversation.

"No, it's not necessary..."

"Jiraiya has already embarked on a mission to pursue Orochimaru."

In response to Yu's offer, Hiruzen shook his head. After regaining composure, his aged and clouded eyes regained a sharp glint, "Due to the Nine-Tails incident, the Fourth sacrificed himself. Consequently, there will be a meeting to discuss my reinstatement as the Hokage."

"Yu, you'll be responsible for escorting me on this journey."

"And Kakashi, bring two ANBU members as my guards."

After issuing these instructions, Hiruzen's gaze shifted to Kakashi, who had just emerged from the nearby forest.

"Yes, Hokage-sama!"

Having just stepped out of the woods, Kakashi's mind was still absorbed in the recent clash with Orochimaru. Upon spotting Yu, his focus sharpened, and he nodded in acknowledgment.

Reinstated as the Hokage?

Hearing Hiruzen's words, Yu nodded thoughtfully. It appeared that the current reality was inevitably aligning with its original course. Following the sacrifice of the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, in the Nine-Tails incident, Hiruzen, who had previously withdrawn into the shadows, was once again taking command of Konoha.

...

Soon, it was afternoon.

Outside the village of Konoha, Yu, Hiruzen, Kakashi, and two other ANBU ninjas departed from the village, heading towards the Land of Fire Daimyo's residence.

Although it had been decided that Hiruzen would reclaim the position of Konoha's Hokage following the sacrifice of the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, in the Nine-Tails incident, tradition dictated that Hiruzen attend the meeting at the Land of Fire Daimyo's residence.