Chapter 21: Ryu's Plot

When a cat catches a mouse, the process can be significantly expedited if the mouse intentionally releases water.

On the bright side, the Uchiha Guards were dispatched in full force, while the Hyuga Clan, led by the Anbu, operated covertly. Orochimaru, the instigator, also played his part.

With their combined efforts, just as Ryu had anticipated, it didn't take long for the evidence of Danzo's criminal activities to be collected. Even the location of his secret base, where he conducted inhumane experiments, was revealed and presented to Ryu.

"My lord, what should we do now?" Uchiha Fugaku asked with a heavy heart in the Hokage's office.

Upon discovering that the mastermind behind the series of missing person cases was Orochimaru, one of the legendary Sannin, Fugaku sensed the enormity of the situation.

Upon delving deeper into his research, Ryu's growing understanding revealed an unsettling truth: he and the Uchiha clan had inadvertently become entangled in a complex power struggle between the Third Hokage and his administration.

Understanding the significance of Orochimaru's direct discipleship to the Third Hokage, Ryu recognized the potential consequences if the news of the scandal were to be exposed. It would not only ruin Orochimaru's reputation but also severely damage the Third Hokage's standing, potentially igniting a more intense power struggle within Konoha.

The mere contemplation of this situation brought a headache to Uchiha Fugaku. The Uchiha clan's position in Konoha was already precarious, and becoming entangled in a power struggle would only exacerbate their predicament. Failure would further endanger their position.

However, having invested significant efforts in the Danzo's incident, it was impossible for them to withdraw at this stage.

Therefore, their only recourse was to align themselves with the Fourth Hokage, despite feeling deceived and led down a dark path.

With a fierce gleam in his eyes, Uchiha Fugaku spoke with determination, "Orochimaru has caused harm to innocent villagers, conducted forbidden experiments on human bodies, and blatantly violated Konoha's regulations. The evidence against him is solid. I implore the Fourth Hokage to issue the order, and the Konoha Guard is fully prepared to apprehend this prime culprit."

Fugaku's words solidified his allegiance, firmly placing him on Ryu's side.

"I will remember the contributions of the Uchiha clan's security team," Ryu nodded appreciatively, his voice calm and composed. "However, there is no need to rush into action. Orochimaru is one of Konoha's legendary Sannin and has made significant contributions to the village. Even in the face of major mistakes, we should discuss the matter and seek the Third Hokage's decision. As Orochimaru's former teacher, he is better suited to handle this situation."

Upon hearing Ryu's remark about not rushing, Fugaku couldn't help but furrow his brow. It reminded him of the saying, "In times of calmness within the highest authority, restlessness ensues among those in subordinate positions".

However, upon learning that the matter had been entrusted to Hiruzen, Ryu experienced a brief moment of surprise. Yet, a realization struck him, causing his furrowed brows to relax, indicating his acceptance of the decision.

"By the way, there are numerous members of the police team involved in this investigation. It seems that many individuals are already aware of Orochimaru's truth," Ryu suddenly remembered and inquired.

Uchiha Fugaku's eyes lit up, affirming, "That's true."

Upon hearing this, Ryu let out a sigh and remarked, "Well, it appears that we cannot conceal Orochimaru's deeds within the village any longer. Since secrecy is no longer possible, there is no need for futile efforts. Words spread faster than flowing rivers. Currently, our best course of action is to swiftly bring this matter to a close. Let's proceed!"

Just as Ryu finished speaking, Assistant Sarutobi Asuma swiftly entered the room.

Ryu retrieved the evidence file from the table and handed it over to Assistant Sarutobi, instructing, "Deliver these to the Third Hokage for immediate examination. Also, convey this message to me: 'The evidence against Orochimaru is substantial, and a prompt decision by the Third Hokage is necessary. Time is of the essence.'"

Asuma's expression shifted upon hearing this.

Though unaware of the specifics, he grasped the gravity conveyed in Ryu's words. It seemed that Orochimaru, supposedly a disciple of the Third Hokage, was involved in a significant matter.

Without wasting a moment, Asuma hastened to deliver the scroll to Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Meanwhile, Ryu resumed his seat with a relaxed countenance, raising the tea cup from the table to his lips, and savoring a sip. With a faint smile, he murmured, "Now, let us witness the choice our esteemed Hokage-sama shall make."

Uchiha Fugaku, too, awaited the outcome with anticipation.

...

The Sarutobi ancestral house where the office of Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Shortly after receiving the urgently presented dossier from his son. Hiruzen, attired in casual clothing, displayed an uncharacteristic expression of extreme disarray on his face.

"Orochimaru!"

As Hiruzen Sarutobi spoke those three words, his voice carried a blend of shock, frustration, and disappointment.

He had been aware of Danzo's minor transgressions in the past, but at the time, they hadn't escalated significantly, and Sarutobi's stern warning had appeared to rein him in.

Little did Sarutobi know that Danzo's apparent restraint had been merely a prelude to even more heinous actions in the future.

Examining the painstakingly detailed evidence of Orochimaru's crimes on the scroll, Sarutobi knew that his disciple was doomed.

Simultaneously, regret coursed through Sarutobi's veins. He regretted entrusting Danzo with the responsibility of monitoring Orochimaru, believing it would serve his original purpose. Instead, he had unwittingly forged an alliance between these two ambitious and unscrupulous individuals.

How had he failed to see that Danzo's relentless pursuit of forbidden experiments had earned the unwavering support of his old friend?

At that moment, Hiruzen drew deeply on his pipe, his actions making him appear visibly aged.

At that precise moment, his son Asuma recalled Ryu's earlier words and hastily relayed them to him.

Upon hearing Ryu's message, Sarutobi's grip on the pipe trembled ever so slightly.

He understood the underlying message behind Ryu's words.

It was a clear push for him to make a swift decision.

And so...

Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes first brimmed with weariness but soon filled with resolve.

He stood up, retrieved an old combat uniform from a nearby closet, and donned it after a prolonged absence.

"Summon the ANBU. We will join forces... to apprehend the rogue ninja Orochimaru within the confines of Konoha!"

With the final wrist guard securely fastened, a fully equipped Sarutobi Hiruzen issued his orders in a chilling tone.

For the sake of Konoha and the Will of Fire, he, as the mentor of the Fourth Hokage and Orochimaru, would personally take action. It was time for a just execution.

Soon, the Hokage Building bustled with heightened activity.

Ryu stood up and looked out the window. He saw Hiruzen Sarutobi leading a group of ANBU ninjas, dressed in black uniforms, as they hurried away with great speed. They were heading towards Orochimaru's secret hideout.

Uchiha Fugaku, standing beside Ryu, also witnessed the scene. He spoke with deep emotion, "The Sandaime Hokage has finally made the right choice."

Ryu remained silent, his eyes fixed on Sarutobi Hiruzen's disappearing figure. After a moment, he spoke with a hint of uncertainty, "I made the right decision, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to stick to it. As the Third Hokage, our principles still have some flexibility."

Turning to face Uchiha Fugaku, who had unintentionally become involved, Ryu continued with determination, "The time for action is approaching, and as the ones who started this, we must see it through to the end. Patriarch Fugaku, I ask you to remember what I just told you. As for me, today marks the final resolution to everything."

With those words, the stage was set, and their intertwined destinies were about to unfold, bringing a sense of closure to their journey.