My Techniques are a bit off

"All encoded—take it back to the cryptography unit for decryption," said Link as he scanned the messy experimental notes and the rows of computers in the base.

The computers, four of them aligned side by side, displayed data and characters he couldn't decipher. In the Naruto world, there were no standardized computer systems. The Forest of Death Tower's computers and Orochimaru's lab computers likely used custom-made systems, understood only by Orochimaru or Kabuto.

Using the simplest method, Link instructed Fugaku Uchiha to seal all potentially useful items and data into scrolls for later decryption by Konoha's cryptography experts.

"I'm not a lone wolf," Link thought. "If I can't figure something out, I'll leave it to the village experts."

Asking Kabuto for clarification wasn't an option either—whatever came out of his mouth was likely riddled with lies and misdirection. Link wasn't sure how much truth existed in the information Kabuto had already provided. A spy raised from childhood to lie could never be entirely trusted.

Unlike Sasuke Uchiha, Kabuto's struggles couldn't be resolved through emotional bonds. His void stemmed from a lack of identity, and his resentment toward Konoha fueled his loyalty to Orochimaru, born of admiration and manipulation.

Even with Edo Tensei at his disposal, Kabuto hadn't attempted to bring back Nono Yakushi, the one connection that might resolve his inner turmoil. This demonstrated how deep his void ran—intellectuals like Kabuto often became trapped in their own obsessions.

For Link, it didn't matter. As long as Danzo bore the blame for all this chaos, he was satisfied.

Taking advantage of the remaining time on his Rashomon summoning, Link directed Baki to open the cells and release the experimental subjects.

Link carefully observed Kabuto's reaction as the experimental data and subjects were freed, but Kabuto showed no visible emotion.

"Perhaps he truly feels indifferent," Link thought. "Or perhaps he's just too skilled at hiding his thoughts."

"Thank you, Uncle Fugaku," Link said earnestly. Unlike those he summoned purely for utility, Fugaku had voluntarily come to protect him, acting as an invaluable shield.

Fugaku smiled, nodding. "Orochimaru is a dangerous monster. Be cautious. If anything happens, summon me immediately."

Fugaku's Sharingan lingered on Kabuto for a moment before he deactivated it, looking slightly fatigued. He had, after all, single-handedly dealt with all the base's guards.

"I've left a Sharingan-based genjutsu in his mind. It will activate if he attempts to escape. When it does, don't hold back."

To Fugaku, Link was a kind-hearted and pure child, a shining light who had even brought warmth to Sasuke. As an elder, Fugaku was determined to protect him at all costs.

Link nodded, watching as Fugaku was pulled back into the Rashomon by an unseen, spectral hand.

What are these hands from the Rashomon? Link wondered. There seems to be no limit to their reach, and even the summoned spirits can't resist them.

Turning to Kabuto, Link said, "Let's go. Don't try anything, or I'll kill you on the spot."

Carrying a scroll larger than himself, Link followed Kabuto, ensuring the shadows kept a tight grip on him.

He didn't kill Kabuto for one simple reason: experienced ninja often had methods to protect the secrets in their minds. Capturing them alive provided the best chance of extracting information. Killing them and taking their brains was a less effective but still viable alternative.

Returning to the Inn late at night, Link sent a signal to Konoha for reinforcements. Capturing a rogue ninja like Kabuto and discovering Orochimaru's base warranted immediate backup.

I'm not a lone operator, Link thought. With the village's support, why should I shoulder everything alone?

…

Konoha, Hokage's Office

"What do you know about the situation in the Land of Rivers?"

The Third Hokage addressed his two advisors with a calm yet weary expression. While his reputation and the strength he displayed during the Chūnin Exams kept him secure in his position, it was clear that both the village and the Land of Fire's leadership were brewing dangerous ideas.

The situation in the Land of Rivers mirrored the tragedy of the Land of Woods. Back then, Danzo had incited war in a small nation, spilling innocent blood to secure resources for Konoha. The hatred born from that conflict still lingered, with survivors of the Prajñā Group seeking revenge against Konoha's leadership.

"I will keep an eye on Danzo," Mitokado Homura offered.

His words implied that while the advisors were aware of and had tacitly approved Danzo's actions, they did not endorse his ambitions for greater power.

"There will always be a need for a scapegoat," Koharu Utatane added. She didn't challenge the Hokage's authority but pointed out a flaw in his decision-making. "You shouldn't have assigned that mission to Link. Danzo is determined to sway him, and there's the matter of Shukaku's jinchūriki."

Homura interjected, "We met with the new Daimyō. He supports either Jiraiya or Tsunade as the next Hokage. In return, we've agreed not to interfere further in the Land of Rivers."

The Third Hokage remained silent.

Two years, he thought, recalling his agreement with Jiraiya. Despite his desire to take a firmer stance, events were slipping further out of his control.

~~~

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