Deep within the hidden recesses of the Root base, Danzo Shimura paced back and forth, his thoughts consumed by his recent confrontation with Hiruzen Sarutobi. The dimly lit room, filled with shadows and the faint hum of clandestine activity, matched his brooding mood.
"That old fool Hiruzen," Danzo muttered to himself. "Always so soft, so blind to the true needs of the village. Ryuga Uzumaki should have been raised by Root. His potential is being wasted."
As Danzo seethed in frustration, a soft rustling echoed through the chamber. He turned sharply, his hand instinctively moving towards the bandages that concealed his right eye. Emerging from the shadows was a figure clad in a long, serpentine robe, his eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and malice.
"Orochimaru," Danzo greeted, his voice a mixture of surprise and grudging respect. "What brings you here?"
Orochimaru's lips curled into a sinister smile. "Danzo, my old friend, it's always a pleasure. I've come to share some intriguing information and perhaps propose an alliance of mutual benefit."
Danzo narrowed his eyes. Despite Orochimaru's defection from Konoha, their clandestine relationship had persisted, bound by their shared interest in forbidden jutsu and genetic experiments. Danzo's obsession with the Wood Release had driven him to work with Orochimaru, hoping to replicate Hashirama Senju's legendary power.
"Speak quickly," Danzo commanded. "I have little patience for games."
Orochimaru chuckled, the sound sending a chill through the room. "Very well. It has come to my attention that there is an Ice Release user within Konoha. A rare and fascinating ability, wouldn't you agree?"
Danzo's eyes widened slightly at the revelation. "An Ice Release user? Who is it?"
"Ryuga Uzumaki," Orochimaru answered, his tone dripping with amusement. "The boy you so foolishly allowed Minato and Kushina to adopt."
Danzo's mind raced. He had known that Ryuga possessed a unique chakra, but this was unexpected. Still, he forced himself to remain calm. "Ice Release is powerful, but it pales in comparison to the Wood Release. My focus remains unchanged."
Orochimaru's smile widened. "If you're not interested, then I propose a different arrangement. I would like to take the boy under my wing. With your cooperation, of course."
Danzo's face darkened. The prospect of Orochimaru gaining control over Ryuga was unsettling, but he saw an opportunity to maintain his own position. "I will assist you, but only to a certain limit. I must protect my interests and my future ambitions."
"You still dream of becoming Hokage," Orochimaru noted, his tone mocking yet understanding. "I respect your ambitions, Danzo. Rest assured, our cooperation will remain discreet."
Danzo nodded. "Very well. What do you need from me?"
"I require information and access," Orochimaru replied smoothly. "Details about Ryuga's training, his abilities, and opportunities to study him up close. In return, I will share the results of my research with you, including anything that may aid your pursuit of the Wood Release."
Danzo considered the offer carefully. Orochimaru was a dangerous ally, but the potential benefits were too great to ignore. "Agreed. But remember, Orochimaru, our dealings must remain secret. If my association with you becomes known, it will jeopardise everything."
Orochimaru inclined his head. "Of course, Danzo. Discretion is paramount."
As Orochimaru faded back into the shadows, Danzo felt a mixture of anticipation and unease. The stakes were higher than ever, and the future of Konoha—and his own ambitions—hung in the balance. Little did he know that the very power he sought to control would eventually shatter his dreams, frozen and broken by the cold reality of Ryuga Uzumaki's true potential.
For now, the schemes of Root and Orochimaru were set into motion, a dark undercurrent beneath the surface of Konoha's daily life.