Kawasaki struggled to find the right words. Thinking of Orochimaru's behavior at Naruto's wedding, he gestured vaguely. "You know, like a mentally unstable lunatic."
Orochimaru's face turned ashen. He was immensely proud of his intellectual genius, his confidence the very source of his self-esteem. It was for this reason he had been so deeply dissatisfied with not being chosen as the Fourth Hokage. To be reduced to a madman was a fate worse than death.
He secretly made a resolution: he had to solve the problem with his soul. Even if he had to die, he would never split his soul in this lifetime.
Seeing the shifting expressions on Orochimaru's face, Kawasaki roughly guessed his thoughts. The Orochimaru from the early days and the one from later on were practically two different people, with both his ideology and personal charisma in steady decline. The core issues were his soul-splitting and the Living Corpse Reincarnation technique. There was another fellow in a neighboring village who was also fond of splitting his soul, and he ended up as something neither human nor ghost.
With his discussion with Orochimaru temporarily concluded, Kawasaki realized that after spending so much time in the Sound Village, he had yet to meet anyone else. Where had Kabuto Yakushi, Orochimaru's little follower, gone?
"Where is Kabuto?"
"I've left all the affairs of the Sound Village to him," Orochimaru replied. "I haven't seen him in days. I only call him back when I need an assistant for my experiments."
Kawasaki nodded. "Oh, did I ever mention that Kabuto is perfectly suited for practicing senjutsu?"
"Perfectly suited? How suited?" Orochimaru had never imagined Kabuto possessed a talent for senjutsu. The more he studied Jugo, the more he understood just how difficult it was to learn.
Kawasaki pondered for a moment. Senjutsu required purity—a pure heart and soul. Yet, the future Kabuto lost himself, transplanting Orochimaru's cells and turning himself into a grotesque patchwork of different genetic and soul fragments. Even in such a state, Kabuto had managed to master senjutsu.
"His talent for it is incredibly high. I'd say he's second only to Hashirama, perhaps even the best."
This statement stunned Orochimaru. He knew more about Hashirama's senjutsu than most, and he never would have guessed Kabuto's talent was so profound. Having him manage village affairs was truly a waste of his potential.
"Kawasaki-kun, how many more things have you been keeping from me?" Orochimaru licked his lips with his long tongue. Kawasaki was like a treasure chest; every time he dug, he found something new.
Kawasaki just shrugged as if he had nothing left. "Oh, right. The boy I brought back, Haku. Besides his Ice Release Kekkei Genkai, he's also a promising candidate for senjutsu."
Orochimaru nodded. The people Kawasaki brought back were indeed all top-tier candidates. He immediately sent someone to find Kabuto.
The moment he saw Kabuto, the expected notification sound chimed.
Ding! Successfully recruited Kabuto Yakushi.
Congratulations to the Host for acquiring: Snake Senjutsu Affinity...
Hearing this, Kawasaki's brow furrowed slightly. So Kabuto wasn't just compatible with senjutsu in general, but specifically with the snake senjutsu of Ryuchi Cave. Still, this isn't particularly useful for me.
"Lord Orochimaru. This must be Uchiha Kawasaki." Kabuto quickly bowed, his expression filled with respect. This was the man who was Lord Orochimaru's most important partner. Ever since the Uchiha clan member's arrival, the entire Village Hidden in the Sound had begun to develop at an astonishing pace, not to mention the massive changes in the culinary industry. All of this was thanks to Uchiha Kawasaki. Thus, while Kawasaki himself was not a resident, legends of him had long since spread throughout the village.
Kabuto had matured quickly recently, handling the village's daily affairs. The experience had greatly tempered his mind, and his previously frivolous demeanor was gone.
"The Sound Village has grown strong. Are you interested in taking the position of Otokage?" Orochimaru asked.
"Lord Orochimaru, I have no interest in becoming a Kage. I only wish to follow you," Kabuto said. He was swamped with work every day. Although managing village affairs had helped him grow, it didn't mean he enjoyed it. His greatest happiness had always been staying by Lord Orochimaru's side. Whether it was assisting with experiments or anything else, he was more than willing.
Kawasaki, standing to the side, smiled gently. "You know, the most important thing in life is to be happy."
Kabuto's eyes lit up. Those words struck a chord deep within him.
Orochimaru chuckled. "In that case, select some capable people and slowly delegate your authority. Later, we can choose a suitable village leader. You can stay by my side."
"Thank you, Lord Orochimaru!" Kabuto said, overjoyed.
At that moment, Kawasaki's thoughts drifted to his faction template system. That was probably the fastest way to solve the problem. He could directly screen for talented individuals and put the right people in the right jobs. That was likely the true purpose of the template. He whispered something into Orochimaru's ear.
Orochimaru raised an eyebrow. "Kabuto, come with me."
Knowing he was needed again, Kabuto was thrilled. "Yes, Lord Orochimaru!"
As they walked, Orochimaru explained, "You have a very special constitution, perfectly suited for learning senjutsu. I'm taking you to Ryuchi Cave to give it a try."
A special constitution? Senjutsu? Kabuto was astonished. He was originally a medical-nin and had never imagined he possessed any talent in that area. The term "senjutsu" had always seemed impossibly distant, but he knew how powerful it was. The realization that he was suited for it sent a thrill of excitement through him.
Orochimaru led Kabuto and Kawasaki through room after room until they reached a secret chamber. It was completely empty except for a massive sealing formula covering the floor, which was coated in a thin layer of dust, clearly untouched for a long time.
Orochimaru's fingers flew through hand seals. He blew out a puff of air, and a gentle breeze swept across the floor, gathering all the dust into a corner without raising a single speck. This level of precise control over Wind Release left Kawasaki speechless; it was far more difficult than forming a wind blade for an attack.
Orochimaru had them stay put while he stood in the center of the array. Biting his thumb, he drew a line of blood on the formula, causing the entire pattern to light up. He spread his arms and began forming more hand seals.
"Summoning Jutsu!"
He slammed his palm onto the center of the array. With a great plume of smoke, a beautiful, doll-like loli appeared. She had long, dark blue hair, a golden crown embedded with spheres, and dark, vertical pupils. Red eye shadow framed her eyes with black lines extending to her nose. Her skin was pale, and she wore blue, comma-shaped earrings. Dressed in a white robe with a single green magatama decoration on her chest, she had sharp fangs and a delicate pink tongue.
A crisp female voice rang out. "Orochimaru, you'd better have a good reason for summoning me with this array."
Kawasaki narrowed his eyes. So this was someone from Ryuchi Cave. The moment she appeared, the concentration of natural energy in the air seemed to increase. Ryuchi Cave was indeed a place rich in natural energy. Though she looked like a cute little girl, Orochimaru's expression was one of profound caution.
He gestured for Kabuto to come forward. "Ichikishimahime, I have found an excellent candidate, perfectly suited for your Ryuchi Cave."
"Oh?" Ichikishimahime floated closer. With her elegant robes and graceful movements, she truly resembled a celestial maiden.
Kabuto, who never judged by appearances, could tell from Lord Orochimaru's reaction that this girl was not to be trifled with. He walked over obediently and stood still.
The girl floated elegantly before him, looking him up and down. The light in her eyes grew brighter. "Incredible. Truly incredible." As she spoke, her tongue forked, and snake-like markings appeared on her face. She looked at Kabuto as if she were appraising a priceless treasure.
A chill ran down Kabuto's spine; it was the primal fear of being targeted by a natural predator. But he could only stand there, motionless, as she scrutinized him.
A ball of light appeared in Ichikishimahime's palm, which she gently placed on Kabuto. He shuddered as an indescribably pleasant energy surged into his body. Every cell within him seemed to rejoice and leap with joy. Ichikishimahime watched as Kabuto absorbed the natural energy instantly, without any adverse reaction. This boy's body was practically tailor-made for snake senjutsu. She had to show him to the White Snake Sage at once!
Ichikishimahime grabbed Kabuto's shoulder. "This kid is indeed a fine specimen. I must take him with me immediately. Orochimaru, do you have any requests?"
Orochimaru smiled. "Being able to learn senjutsu is Kabuto's good fortune. We wouldn't dare ask for anything more. Kabuto, once you get there, train hard and don't disappoint me."
Kabuto instantly understood Orochimaru's intentions and replied respectfully, "Rest assured, Lord Orochimaru, I will do my best."
Ichikishimahime gave Orochimaru a deep look, then grabbed Kabuto and vanished in a puff of smoke.
Orochimaru turned to Kawasaki. "Kawasaki-kun, you truly have a discerning eye."
Kawasaki could only manage a dry laugh. He hadn't expected the people from Ryuchi Cave to be so eager as to take him away on the spot. Now that Kabuto was gone, they needed to find a replacement to handle the village's affairs quickly. Fortunately, Kabuto had often been away on missions, so everyone was used to his absence.
...
After leaving Orochimaru's laboratory, Kawasaki was introduced to his most trusted subordinates. As expected, aside from the few named characters from the original timeline, the system provided no information on the others. However, as soon as he saw the remaining four members of the Sound Five, a notification sounded in his ear.
Ding! Congratulations to the Host for drastically changing the life trajectories of the Sound Four.
Congratulations to the Host for acquiring: Cursed Seal x4
Ding! Successfully recruited the Sound Four.
Congratulations to the Host for acquiring: Earth Affinity, Music Mastery, Archery Mastery, Dual Mind.
So, these four don't even get names? Earth Affinity was decent, but what the hell were Music Mastery and Archery Mastery? I'm not that Hyuga with the electromagnetic cannon! And Dual Mind... did it just count Sakon and Ukon as one person?
Kawasaki shook his head. Orochimaru's subordinates seemed quite normal in this lifetime; few of them were heavily modified. But since the forte of these four was their Cursed Seals, that was likely their main contribution. Adding the one he got from Jugo, Kawasaki could now use the Cursed Seal five times.
...
The large meeting hall of the Sound Village was packed with people. After leaving Orochimaru, Kawasaki had summoned all the Uchiha clan members. Every Uchiha in the village who wasn't currently on a mission was present.
Kawasaki sat at the head of the table, flanked by Elder Takuya, Itachi, and Shisui. Over the past few years, Elder Takuya had more or less fulfilled his lifelong dream. He had personally witnessed the Sound Village grow from a few dozen people to over a thousand. When Kabuto was away, he served as the acting leader. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call him the Otokage's right-hand man. Time had changed his demeanor, and the environment had shaped his character; the elder now carried the air of a true leader. Kawasaki had even checked his faction panel and noticed Takuya's attributes had changed. His special skills column, which once only listed 'Management,' now included 'Leadership.' He couldn't help but feel that letting this group of Uchiha venture out was the right decision.
"It's been over four years since you all left the village. Thank you for your hard work." Kawasaki stood and bowed to the crowd. After all, while Kotoamatsukami had altered their radical ideas, these were still people of flesh and blood. The Sound Village had been practically barren back then, and the Uchiha clan members had been instrumental in its growth from a few dozen people to its current state.
"Lord Kawasaki, you're too kind!"
"It was our own choice, Lord Kawasaki!"
"Everything is for the clan, Lord Kawasaki!"
The Uchiha members responded one after another. The atmosphere was lively, but there was a genuine camaraderie among them. Life had been hard when they first arrived, but at least they were free from the suspicious glares of others. The Land of Rice Paddies was remote and poor, but that meant there was a steady stream of simple missions. When the surrounding smaller nations heard that hundreds of Uchiha had joined the Sound Village, many of them outsourced their missions to them, which helped the Uchiha through their most difficult period. Once the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Paddies partnered with the Sound Village to develop the food industry, their lives became much more comfortable.
Their sincere and heartfelt responses brought Kawasaki a deep sense of satisfaction. "Having been away for so long, some of you must be missing home."
The crowd looked at each other, but no one spoke up first.
Kawasaki waved his hand. "It's alright, speak freely. There are no outsiders here."
Uchiha Katsura scratched his head in embarrassment. "My mother gave birth to a baby brother. He should be about two now. I'd like to go back and see him."
With Katsura breaking the ice, his teammate Koki spoke next. "I haven't seen my wife in a long time. I want to go home and see her."
"I haven't seen my mother in four years either. I'd like to go back..."
"I..."
Once one person started, the others began talking all at once. Most of those with families expressed their homesickness. Even those with no remaining relatives wanted to return to the village to see what the Uchiha clan was like now.
Kawasaki raised a hand, and the room fell silent. He turned to Elder Takuya, who hadn't spoken.
Sensing Kawasaki's gaze, Takuya said, "I have no family left in Konoha, but I too would like to go back for a visit."
Kawasaki nodded. "Does everyone know who founded the Sound Village?" The crowd looked at each other and shook their heads. The three leaders knew but remained silent.
"The Sound Village was founded by Orochimaru," Kawasaki announced. "He just doesn't usually show his face, leaving Kabuto and Takuya to lead you."
A slight stir went through the Uchiha. They were, in a sense, rogue ninja who had abandoned their village. It was ironic that the actual leader of their new home was also a rogue from Konoha. But they quickly quieted down.
Kawasaki continued, "Orochimaru was also a victim of Danzo's schemes, which forced him to leave Konoha. He has actually been our partner all along. Soon, there will be an opportunity for all of us to return to Konoha. Those who wish to stay in the Sound Village may do so, and those who wish to return will be able to."
A palpable excitement filled the room. To say they didn't miss home after so many years of wandering would be a lie. They had left for the sake of the clan, and they had heard that the clan was now free from Konoha's control and living comfortably. Although it was easy to send messages via summoning animals, everyone wanted to go back and see it for themselves.
Kawasaki clapped his hands. "Alright, pass this news on to the clan members who couldn't be here today. Everyone is to await orders. Keep this information confidential." He then added, "Elder Takuya, Itachi, Shisui, you three stay behind. The rest of you are dismissed."
Their faces bright with hope for the future, the Uchiha members rose, bowed to Kawasaki, and left the meeting hall in an orderly fashion. Soon, only Itachi, Shisui, and Elder Takuya remained.
As the three of them looked at him, Kawasaki said, "When I return this time, I intend to take over as head of the clan."
The three were surprised, though they had long suspected this would happen. They just hadn't expected it so soon. None of them had any objections to Kawasaki becoming the clan head, so they waited for him to continue.
"The Third Hokage is now aware that Danzo framed Orochimaru for his defection, and he is considering allowing Orochimaru to return to Konoha. If Orochimaru returns, I want to support him in becoming the Fifth Hokage."
The three of them had already foreseen future calamities, so the position of Hokage was of little concern to them at the moment. Itachi and Shisui knew full well that Orochimaru was essentially one of their own now. Takuya, aware of Shisui's Kotoamatsukami, had a vague suspicion that Orochimaru was now an ally. Without asking for details, he placed his full trust in Itachi and Shisui.
"What about us..."
...
The Dreamscape.
Each training session in the dreamscape consumed a vast amount of energy, and Kawasaki had been constantly on the move. To avoid any mishaps, his dream training had been brief and superficial. But now that he had finally brought Kimimaro and Haku back to the Sound Village, he could once again train in the dreamscape without worry. Especially after gaining new abilities, he was eager to test them. As night fell, he entered the dreamscape.
This time, Kawasaki chose to focus on practical combat. According to his faction panel, his strongest sparring partner was still Orochimaru. Upon entering the space, Orochimaru appeared, silent as always.
Impure World Reincarnation!
Gurgle, gurgle, gurgle...
Two coffins rose from the ground.