Chapter 73: Ch.73 Projection Space
As Uchiha Shinji walked slowly towards the shinobi academy, lost in his own thoughts, he noticed that the atmosphere in the classroom felt strange.
Haku quickly informed Shinji about Sasuke's previous defeat and, with some concern, said, "Shinji-kun, you should be careful!"
"Why should I be careful?" Shinji asked, puzzled.
Haku explained, "Everyone's speculating that Kimimaro's next target for a challenge is either you or Neji-kun!"
Shinji smiled, "Don't worry. I'm not someone who easily accepts challenges."
After sitting down in his seat, Shinji began processing the information he'd just received from Haku.
"Kimimaro? Isn't he supposed to be with Orochimaru? Why has he suddenly come to the shinobi academy? Could it be that Orochimaru wants to provoke Sasuke through Kimimaro?"
Kimimaro's immediate challenge to Sasuke upon arriving at the academy was too blatant to be a coincidence.
While others might think Kimimaro was simply seeking fame by defeating Sasuke, Shinji knew better. Kimimaro didn't care about reputation. The only thing that mattered to him was whether he could be of use to Orochimaru. He was even willing to sacrifice his body for that purpose.
Thus, Kimimaro's presence at the school was undoubtedly on Orochimaru's orders.
As for provoking Sasuke, it was likely a way to push Sasuke to grow stronger.