Chapter 2: Chapter 2: The System Awakens
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"Hostage?" Orochimaru's snake-like eyes flicked toward Anko, a glint of suspicion flashing within them.
If all he wanted was to keep her from leaking information, killing her would be the simplest solution. But with greater interests at stake, he didn't dwell on it for long.
"Do as you wish. But if you dare deceive me, I won't hesitate to turn you into my next experiment." His cold gaze locked onto Akira, making his spine stiffen.
Akira forced a quick nod. "Of course!"
With a dismissive huff, Orochimaru turned and strode out of the cave. Seizing the moment, Akira rushed to Anko's side, untying the ropes before hoisting her onto his back.
"For the sake of Shinra Tensei, carrying a girl is a small price to pay!" he reassured himself.
At least, he noted, this was the younger Anko—far from her Boruto-era weight gain. Light as a feather, curves in all the right places… He couldn't help but appreciate the tight, toned physique of a kunoichi. His hands naturally landed on her thighs, but, well—
"Don't blame me, this is just how you carry someone!" he reasoned, though the excuse sounded weak even to himself.
"Tch! You damn spies, Lord Third won't let you leave Konoha alive! Just you wait!" Anko hissed, glaring at him. Yet, for some reason, a faint blush crept onto her cheeks.
Akira ignored her, staying laser-focused. Orochimaru was still within sight, meaning any misstep could spell instant death. He steadied his breathing and followed closely behind, mind racing.
"Uchiha Itachi's body really is a tempting lure. Even though Orochimaru is suspicious, he hasn't acted against me yet."
The legendary Sannin led the way, his gait quick and confident.
From Akira's memory, Orochimaru was still a loyal subordinate to the Third Hokage at this time. He hadn't injected Anko with the Cursed Seal yet, meaning he hadn't fully defected—and, more importantly, he wasn't at his peak strength yet.
This was crucial.
Orochimaru had yet to master Edo Tensei, Triple Rashomon, or the terrifying Eight-Headed Serpent Technique. Right now, he was strong—but not invincible.
"I really made the right call. If I complete the system's mission, I might just gain enough power to match him—or at least escape safely!"
The tunnel finally opened up into a vast, endless forest. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, a stunning contrast to the dark cave they had just left.
"Looks like we're finally out," Akira thought.
But before he could take a moment to breathe, Orochimaru's piercing gaze snapped to him.
"Where is your so-called leader?" the Sannin demanded, scanning the area.
His sharp senses detected nothing. No hidden figures, no lurking chakra signatures.
Akira forced a calm expression. "He's waiting outside."
Orochimaru wasn't buying it. "You're stalling."
Akira's heart pounded. He had to keep moving. One step. Two steps. Three steps. Just a little farther—
"Ding!"
A system notification rang in his head.
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[SSS-Level Mission: Save Anko – Complete!]**- Reward: Advanced Taijutsu (Max)
Advanced Chakra Control (Max) Advanced Weapon Mastery (Max)**
[Bonus for Perfect Completion: God-Tier Ninjutsu – Shinra Tensei!]
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Akira's body trembled as raw power surged through his muscles. It was overwhelming—an instant mastery that didn't require training. He could feel it. He was now at least Jonin-level.
A new chakra pathway appeared in his mind. Shinra Tensei. He could see exactly how it worked.
"So this is how it's activated!"
He grinned.
"Enough games. You lied to me!"
Orochimaru had lost his patience. In a flash, he lunged—his speed terrifying.
Akira barely reacted in time.
"Shinra Tensei!"
A violent force erupted from his body.
Boom!
The sheer impact sent Orochimaru hurtling backward, crashing through trees like a ragdoll.
He coughed up blood. "What… was that technique?!"
Shinra Tensei wasn't just a repelling force—it was an absolute rejection of matter itself. Even the mighty Mount Myoboku Toads had been knocked aside by it. Compared to them, Orochimaru was nothing.
The Sannin groaned, rising to his feet, eyes filled with newfound wariness. "That power… no ordinary ninja could wield it. Just who are you?"
Akira barely suppressed a smirk. "Finally, some respect."
He clenched his fist. With his new strength, he might actually have a chance against this legendary figure.
And more importantly—
He could finally start carving his own legend in this world.