Chapter 57: Meeting

In the following days, Qingming observed changes within the camp and discovered several issues.

First, the number of ninjas in the main camp was steadily increasing, and many appeared weary and travel-worn, indicating they had been on a long journey. Coupled with the group they had encountered days prior, Qingming had reason to suspect that these individuals were returning from the frontline outposts.

Second, the camp's external communication channels had tightened, with any personnel or goods entering or leaving requiring multiple inspections. Even access to the training grounds was now restricted.

Additionally, the sensory barrier surrounding the camp was active at all times, making any disturbance likely to attract the attention of patrols.

Given all these developments, Qingming would have been hard-pressed to believe that nothing significant was about to happen.

"Forget about it. Time to keep training," he thought, shaking his head as he refocused on his practice.

Since he could no longer access the training grounds, he decided to channel all his chakra into practicing the Mind Reflection Technique. This approach allowed him to gain over thirty proficiency points daily, equating to six points towards the progress of his Sharingan.

Watching his progress inch upwards each day, Qingming felt a sense of satisfaction rather than monotony.

Three days passed in this manner.

That afternoon, in the central area of the main camp, a gathering was underway.

Inside a tent, over a dozen Leaf Jonin were seated at a long table, silence enveloping the room.

After a moment, a pale, slender man parted the curtain and entered, taking his place at the head of the table.

At that moment, everyone around the table stood in unison and greeted, "Lord Orochimaru!"

"Hmm," Orochimaru nodded slightly, gesturing for them to sit.

He wasted no time and directly inquired, "Is everyone present?"

A Leaf Jonin quickly stood and reported, "As of one hour ago, 90% of the scheduled personnel have arrived. The remainder will return by tonight."

"Good," Orochimaru replied nonchalantly, then turned to another person, "How is the news blackout?"

Upon being addressed, this Jonin felt a rush of anxiety but promptly replied, "So far, there have been no signs of intelligence leaks. However…"

"However what?" Orochimaru pressed.

"The Sunagakure and Iwagakure seem to have sensed something. In the past few days, our outer patrols have discovered several attempts to infiltrate the camp," the Jonin continued.

"Is that so?" Orochimaru mused. "That's to be expected; after all, we've recalled so many people from the frontline. As long as they don't discover our operational plans, we should be fine."

The Jonin quickly assured, "Rest assured, Lord Orochimaru, the information has not leaked."

"Hmm."

Orochimaru nodded, trusting his subordinate's capabilities; if they made such a guarantee, it meant the situation was under control.

After a moment of thought, he glanced towards the corner of the tent and asked, "What about your side?"

Everyone followed his gaze, noticing a figure cloaked in black robes that had materialized without anyone noticing.

This figure belonged to the Konoha Anbu—or more accurately, to the Root organization under Danzo.

Compared to Anbu operatives, Root ninjas were more cold-blooded and ruthless. To accomplish their missions, they would sacrifice anything, including their own lives, making them true instruments of execution.

Orochimaru had acquired these individuals from Danzo specifically to aid in executing his revenge plan.

Indeed, it was revenge—specifically against Iwagakure and Sunagakure for the surprise attack they launched over a month ago.

The recent full-scale offensives were merely a prelude to this plan; the upcoming actions were the main event.

However, facing two major ninja villages with Konoha's forces in the Land of Rain was clearly an overwhelming task.

After careful consideration, Orochimaru ultimately targeted Iwagakure, where he harbored deeper animosities.

Nevertheless, Sunagakure could not be neglected; these two villages had previously collaborated, and it was impossible to guarantee they wouldn't do so again.

Even if they didn't join forces, a counterattack during their operation would leave the main camp vulnerable, resulting in significant losses.

To prevent Sunagakure from acting rashly, some incidents needed to be orchestrated to divert their attention.

This was why Orochimaru had brought in the Root ninjas.

At this moment, hearing Orochimaru's question, the cloaked figure responded immediately, "All preparations are in place. When the plan commences, several key figures from Sunagakure in the Land of Rain will be assassinated."

Indeed, Orochimaru's plan was straightforward and brutal.

If the Root ninjas could eliminate just one or two key figures, the command structure of Sunagakure would be thrown into disarray.

By the time they reestablished their command, the Konoha operation would be over, leaving them no chance to counterattack.

As for whether the assassinations would succeed?

If it were Anbu carrying out the missions, Orochimaru might have had some concerns. However, since it was the Root ninjas, he felt assured.

With their efficiency and the knowledge of their targets' movements, they might not achieve a 100% success rate, but a 50-60% chance was realistic.

Orochimaru didn't expect the Root to eliminate all targets, as that would be unrealistic.

Even if Sunagakure were weaker, they were still one of the Five Great Ninja Villages, making the assassination of their key figures no small feat.

However, even if only a few were successfully taken down, it would suffice for Orochimaru's plan to proceed smoothly.

Having confirmed that all preparations were complete, Orochimaru no longer hesitated. He ordered, "Get ready to act immediately. At 7 PM tomorrow, we commence the operation."

"Yes!"

Inside the tent, over a dozen Leaf Jonin responded in unison.

Orochimaru waved his hand, signaling for everyone to dismiss.

Moments later, the tent was empty.

At this point, Orochimaru rubbed his forehead forcefully, a rare look of fatigue crossing his face.

To be honest, he didn't enjoy orchestrating such plans; compared to dealing with these "administrative matters," he preferred researching ninjutsu and exploring the secrets of immortality.

But as a disciple of the Third Hokage, he felt a responsibility to alleviate his master's burdens. Just like Jiraiya in the Wind Country, he needed to remain vigilant in the Land of Rain.

"How wonderful it would be if there were no war!"

Recalling the deaths of his parents, friends, and disciples, a sigh escaped Orochimaru's lips.

Suddenly, a wave of restlessness surged within him, leading him to wish he could cast aside all these responsibilities and focus solely on his passions.

Unfortunately, he could not afford to do so.

Closing his eyes, he attempted to clear his mind, working to calm himself.

Soon, only the sound of his faint breathing remained in the tent.

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