I Am Fugaku Uchiha

After Tsunade's departure in the morning, Fugaku briefed Shikaku and set off for the Land of the Rivers.

He aimed to discuss matters with Rasa. Opting for an alternate path to remain discreet, Orochimaru unexpectedly ran in Suna camp. Judging by Rasa's response, it seemed the conflict had reached a resolution, at least temporarily.

In the Land of Wind, Rasa's opposition dwindled after witnessing Fugaku's prowess.

The Konoha camp remained untouched. Ino-Shika-Cho, aware of Fugaku's deal with Rasa, kept it from the Hokage.

Following the intense battle, both Konoha and Suna learned about his flying ability. In a covert move, Uchiha Fugaku relinquished the Land of the Rivers to the Land of Wind.

While recognizing it as a measure to save lives, they anticipated the hostage's understanding. However, the broader political landscape, including the Land of Fire's daimyo and influential figures in Konoha, remained oblivious.

Given the ongoing war, Fugaku's actions lacked the expected formalities, violating Shinobi conduct. Instead of filing a report, he chose clandestine negotiations with the enemy's Kazekage. The revelation of these covert dealings could brand Fugaku as a traitor.

In this world, the apex was occupied by the daimyo, a reality Fugaku reluctantly acknowledged.

Ninjas, mere instruments of war, served their interests. Shikaku doubted Fugaku's acceptance of this truth, raising concerns about potential consequences.

The prospect of a powerful ninja and a formidable clan leader not adhering to orders was daunting. The trio, weighed down by the complexity of the situation, opted to keep themselves.

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The orphanage, wrapped in silence, echoed with the distant chirping of insects.

Nano, weary from a busy day at camp, led the children back to rest. Near the camp, the orphanage faced an unexpected intrusion that night.

Gathered around a table with a dimly lit candle, Nano sat, flanked by an aunt and an old man with glasses.

On the other side sat Danzo, his tone laden with gloom. Surprised to see Nano, he remarked, "I never thought you, the wandering witch, would become a nanny. You seem a bit worn out, Nano."

As Nano observed the two figures concealed beneath black robes behind Danzo, shock coursed through her. Having spent considerable time in the Root, she had been oblivious to Orochimaru's allegiance to Danzo.

"I've long abandoned that name and made an aid deal with the village. What brings you here?" Nano's tone was cold, harboring hostility toward Danzo.

"Former top spy turned ignorant after leaving the Root? I'm not here for aid alone," Danzo retorted, explaining their urgent need. "Iwagakure plans a large-scale attack; we need you to infiltrate, verify, and gather details. It's a long-term mission."

"You've got the wrong person; I've been—"

"The director means everything to the orphanage and the children, tirelessly raising funds to keep this place running," argued the aunt and the old man with glasses.

"Why not use root agents for this dangerous task? Must you involve the director?" they protested.

"The Wandering Witch is the only one capable of this long-term mission. No one in the Root matches her spy skills," Danzo calmly asserted. "Mediocre ones might go insane or defect. I trust she won't betray Konoha."

Nano's eyes sparkled at this assurance. Her loyalty lay with the orphans; she'd never betray Konoha.

Danzo, noting Nano's resolve, smiled. "You understand, Nano. Refusing means the orphanage loses all funding.”

"But the Third Hokage-sama already agreed. He wouldn't let this happen," the aunt voiced in disbelief.

"This orphanage is an easy target for thieves. Consider hiring a bodyguard to protect your funds, if you have any," suggested Torune Aburame.

"I have to warn you; watch out for the children too. After all, children of unknown origin threaten the village," Orochimaru stated with a thinly veiled threat.

"You're vile! What kind of ninjas are you?" The old man with glasses angrily shouted upon hearing Orochimaru's sinister words.

A/N: This chapter is relatively short in its raw form due to the events  unfolding ahead of their time, influenced by someone meddling with  things. With numerous upcoming events, the brevity of this chapter is  intentional