Naruto: Reborn as Orochimaru

Chapter 189: Rogue Ninjas

Had it been that long since Orochimaru last exchanged something from the system's store? The last time was years ago, when he'd given the Uchiha clan wireless communication devices. Pushing aside the nostalgia, he refocused on finding a tool that could be of practical use. The system's store was filled with auxiliary gadgets that could be exchanged for use but not reproduced on a mass scale. For any kind of large-scale production, significant re

"There's no mistake! We're up against Orochimaru!"

"No way! Why is he here? Isn't there a war going on?"

"It has to be a lie!"

The mere mention of Orochimaru's name filled them with dread. His reputation as one of the legendary Sannin had spread across the lands, even reaching rogue groups like theirs. But why now? Why would someone of his caliber be here, facing them instead of being at the front lines?

The confusion gnawed at them. They had fled to the Land of Fire to exploit the war's chaos, stealing and killing without much fear. But now, they stood before a legend.

"Master, you're truly impressive!" hissed the black snake coiled around his arm. "They're paralyzed just hearing your name."

"Indeed." Orochimaru chuckled, the sound dark and sinister. "Yamata, keep them alive."

"Understood," replied the snake before vanishing into thin air.

The sudden disappearance sent a ripple of panic through the rogues.

"He's gone?"

"Where did he—"

"It's true! The stories are true! This is bad, we need to—"

"Run!"

"Curse it! Why did we have to meet him?"

They tried to flee, darting in opposite directions. But it was already too late. Orochimaru moved swiftly, appearing behind one man, his crimson Sharingan catching the rogue's eye.

"Sharingan...!"

Before the ninja could react, Orochimaru struck him at the base of the neck, knocking him unconscious. He didn't hesitate, turning to the next target.

"Hidden Shadow Snake Hands!" he called.

Explosions and the sudden flurry of smoke bombs followed as the rogues desperately tried to cover their escape. Smoke filled the clearing, obscuring their view. But just when they thought they could slip away, figures appeared in the haze, blocking their path.

Clones of Orochimaru.

"You didn't think I'd come unprepared, did you?" Orochimaru's voice echoed through the smoke. His clones surrounded them, their eyes glowing red.

***

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