Chapter 51: Searching for Amegakure Ninja
After a night of rest, Orochimaru began deploying his troops early the next morning. He assembled all the Hyūga Clan members and sensor-type ninjas, forming specialized teams consisting of one Jōnin and three Chūnin each. Orochimaru himself led a sizable group of Konoha ninja to search the northern perimeter of the camp.
Kawakaze, however, volunteered to stay behind and guard the camp. He reasoned that the large-scale search would not be an effective training opportunity for the two young ninja, Nawaki and Minato. Their inexperience and lack of advanced sensory abilities might end up hindering the operation rather than contributing to it.
At the camp gate, Orochimaru expressed an interest in taking Nawaki along. "Nawaki, do you want to come with Sensei?"
Before Nawaki could answer, Kawakaze quickly interjected, stepping in front of Nawaki protectively. "No, I'd like to work with Nawaki a little more. He still has some areas that need improvement," Kawakaze insisted, his voice tinged with urgency.
He shielded Nawaki behind his back, looking almost panicked. The thought of Nawaki being put in danger under Orochimaru's watch seemed unbearable to Kawakaze. If something happened to Nawaki again, Kawakaze could face the consequences himself—but explaining it to Tsunade was another matter entirely.
Nawaki, puzzled by his brother-in-law's sudden shift, glanced up at him. Kawakaze had praised him the previous night, but now he was saying Nawaki wasn't ready. Though curious, Nawaki didn't dare to question him aloud. The memory of being scolded last time was still fresh in his mind.
"Very well," Orochimaru said, showing no resistance. He seemed almost relieved to leave Nawaki behind. After saying goodbye to Kawakaze, Orochimaru set off with his team.
Back at camp, Kawakaze took the two younger ninjas with him. Naturally, Sakumo, eager for action, had joined Orochimaru's group, requesting the assistance of a Hyūga Clan Chūnin before departing.
"Sensei," Minato asked, following Kawakaze obediently, "do you think they'll find the Amegakure ninja this time?"
"I think they'll find them," Kawakaze replied thoughtfully, "but it's hard to say how many they'll be able to eliminate."
Amegakure ninja can be incredibly elusive, especially when they're determined to stay hidden. This is their land, after all.