Chapter 32: The Unspoken Distance
In the Hokage's office, Sarutobi Hiruzen and Orochimaru discussed the shinobi world's current situation while Kagenori listened intently.
After contemplation, Orochimaru inquired, "So, sensei, will you dispatch me to River Country to contain those Suna-nin?"
Kagenori's heart skipped a beat. He desperately wanted battlefield experience—but not now! If Kushina were attacked by Kumo-nin during his absence, he couldn't reach her even if he could fly. Ensuring her safety took priority over battlefield deployment.
Fortunately, Sarutobi's next words reassured him. "They can wait for now. The border garrison should handle them. For the coming days, Orochimaru, assist me in formulating strategies for Konoha's response."
Orochimaru excelled at strategic planning. During the Second Shinobi World War, he'd led ninja forces to numerous difficult victories. With Konoha's situation deteriorating, his strategic insight was precisely what the village needed.
Nodding, Orochimaru agreed, "Understood."
Kagenori breathed relief—no immediate departure from Konoha.
After further discussion, Orochimaru escorted Kagenori from the Hokage Building. En route, he unexpectedly asked, "You heard our conversation. If four major villages simultaneously assault Konoha, how would you break their alliance?"
Caught off-guard, Kagenori needed silent contemplation before responding. "The four villages unite against Konoha for interests alone. Every shinobi war revolves around interests. Since interests brought Iwa and Kumo together, those same interests could divide them."
Orochimaru appeared satisfied. "How would you use interests to turn them against each other?"
Shaking his head, Kagenori admitted, "I don't know, Orochimaru-sensei."
He genuinely didn't know what benefits could divide Iwa and Kumo. What could Konoha offer that would make them betray their alliance? Their cooperation aimed to plunder Fire Country's rich resources. Suggesting they target each other instead made no sense when they'd already chosen Konoha as their joint prey.
In Kagenori's view, they needed to understand the specific terms of the Iwa-Kumo cooperation first, then tempt one village with superior benefits.
Orochimaru didn't fault his "I don't know"—the question was indeed challenging. "I'll be occupied henceforth, rarely at the base. You have today off. Tomorrow I'll take you to Ryūchi Cave, then create a self-training regimen. For suitable future missions, I'll accept them for you, though you'll likely execute them alone."
Hearing about a day off, Kagenori's face brightened unconsciously.
Recognizing his anticipation, Orochimaru dismissed him. "Go."
"Thank you, Orochimaru-sensei! See you tomorrow!" Waving, Kagenori hurried away eagerly.
Before Uzumaki Mito's mansion, Kagenori felt both nervous and excited. A month had passed since he last saw Kushina.
Knocking brought rapid footsteps—clearly running. The door opened to a crimson blur tackling him.
Hugging Kushina, he lovingly ruffled her hair. "Long time no see."
Releasing him, she pouted, punching his chest. "Why so long?! I thought you forgot me!"
Kagenori winced—her strength kept increasing.
Rubbing his nose, he explained, "How could I forget you? I'd forget anyone but you. Orochimaru-sensei's training missions were intensive—no time to visit. Just completed one, so he gave me today off."
"By the way, how did you know it was me?"
"Grandma Mito told me! She has a special ability—sensing everything within range through chakra!"
Kagenori immediately understood: Kagura's Mind Eye, an Uzumaki clan specialty.
Grabbing his hand, Kushina pulled him toward the mansion. "Grandma Mito missed you too! Let's visit her!"
Sighing imperceptibly, Kagenori allowed himself to be dragged. He'd rather wander alone with Kushina, but...
He still met Uzumaki Mito. Compared to their previous encounter, she now appeared truly elderly.
Bowing respectfully, he greeted, "Lady Mito."
She observed him kindly. Having killed, Kagenori's aura had sharpened considerably.
"You've grown, Kagenori."
"Before Lady Mito, I remain but a child."
Sensing his distance, she sighed. "There's no need for such wariness."
Frowning slightly, he maintained formality. "You are my elder."
His meaning was clear: respect, not wariness.
Shaking her head helplessly, Uzumaki Mito recognized the truth. As Nine-Tails Jinchūriki, she could sense alignment through its chakra—especially malice. During their first meeting, despite Kagenori's flawless behavior, she'd clearly detected his wariness and distance. Now remained no different.