Naruto: Starting with Infinite Chakra-Chapter 210: Orochimaru’s Path Begins

To unite all the forces within the Land of Fire, better train the next generation of shinobi, and eliminate the feudal lord—these were necessary steps.

After all, the daimyo controlled all the nation's tax revenue. The wealth of the Land of Fire was concentrated in his mansion, while Konoha had to request funds and resources for shinobi training. Only after approval from the daimyo's office would the Hokage be able to allocate resources. If the funds were insufficient, it would directly hinder Konoha's ability to train its ninja.

Considering all this, removing the daimyo was not just a possibility—it was an absolute necessity.

"Killing the daimyo would throw the Land of Fire into chaos. This cannot be allowed," Sarutobi Hiruzen immediately rejected Jiraiya's plan.

The consequences of assassinating the daimyo were severe. The political instability would shake the entire nation.

Jiraiya understood this. However, with the war raging, this was the perfect opportunity to act. After all, once the job was done, he could simply shift the blame to another country.

"I know this will have a huge impact," Jiraiya admitted, "but for the sake of the village's future, it must be done. You were Hokage—you should understand better than anyone how much we've been held back due to resource limitations."

"Besides, the daimyo and his court live in luxury, squandering immense wealth on their indulgences every year. If that money were invested in our shinobi forces instead, Konoha would be far stronger than it is now."

The Land of Fire had been at peace for years, allowing the daimyo to focus on nothing but pleasure. That, in itself, was a colossal waste.

"You're not wrong," Hiruzen admitted, furrowing his brows. "But acting rashly is still far too dangerous."

Jiraiya didn't argue further. He had merely informed Hiruzen, not sought his approval. Without another word, he left the Hokage's office.

...

Several days later, Tsunade and Orochimaru returned to the village.

"I've called you back because we need more medical ninja," Jiraiya told Tsunade. "It's crucial for the village's future. I want you to train a new generation of medical shinobi to strengthen our forces."

"This is an important mission, and I'll give you whatever resources you need."

Tsunade nodded. "I've been thinking the same thing for a while now. Our village doesn't have nearly enough medical ninjas. I've seen too many comrades suffer fatal injuries with no way to save them. I'll take care of this."

She had long been aware of this issue. But before, her position in the village had not been high enough to push for such changes. Even if she had voiced her concerns, the higher-ups would likely have ignored them.

Now that Jiraiya had brought it up himself, she was more than happy to take on the responsibility.

Since childhood, she had watched many of her Senju clansmen succumb to their injuries due to a lack of proper treatment. She had sworn to change that.

"You should start preparations immediately," Jiraiya instructed. "If necessary, consult the elders of your clan. I'll be visiting the Senju compound later today."

Tsunade nodded and left.

...

Jiraiya turned to Orochimaru. "After months of war, has your view on life changed?"

Orochimaru looked even more cold and distant than before. The past months of bloodshed had only reinforced what he already knew—life was fragile.

"I've seen too many comrades die," Orochimaru replied. "Life is fleeting. It can end at any moment."

"Then... have you come to any new conclusions?" Jiraiya asked.

In the original timeline, Orochimaru's obsession with the frailty of life had led him down the path of forbidden research. His scientific advancements were invaluable, and Jiraiya wanted to ensure that he followed the same trajectory.

"I want to change that fragility," Orochimaru said. "But I still don't know how."

"Then start by strengthening the body," Jiraiya suggested. "I'll give you access to Konoha's restricted archives."

He had decided to grant Orochimaru full access to the village's forbidden research. In the original timeline, Orochimaru's progress had been accelerated by Danzo's support, allowing him to study many secret techniques. However, he had not been given full access—otherwise, he wouldn't have needed to steal more records when he defected. freёnovelkiss.com

"This is an important mission," Jiraiya continued. "You're going to assassinate the daimyo of the Land of Fire."

"You must eliminate him cleanly—no traces left behind."

Although the daimyo was protected by a squad of ninja, only one was of jōnin level. Orochimaru's chances of success were extremely high.

"I'll do it tomorrow," Orochimaru said without hesitation. He didn't even ask for an explanation.

After a brief pause, he added, "I want a Sharingan."

Jiraiya wasn't surprised.

In the original timeline, Orochimaru had always been fascinated by the power of the Sharingan. He had tried to steal Itachi's body after joining the Akatsuki and later targeted Sasuke, failing both times.

"I'll grant your request," Jiraiya said. "Once the war in Amegakure is over, I'll get you some Sharingan to study."

Plenty of Uchiha had fallen in battle, and acquiring a few of their eyes wouldn't be difficult.

...

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