Chapter 177:
The Third Hokage was preparing to hold a meeting for the Jonin. To minimize disruption on the battlefield, a temporary meeting spot was set up midway between the two defense lines.
Not every Jonin was required to attend; only about a hundred who were currently available. After all, maintaining the battlefield was the top priority.
When Tsunade on the Suna Defense Line heard about this, she couldn't hide her excitement. The fighting on her front had been relatively light, and thanks to her exceptional medical skills, no new injuries had been reported in two days. She was free to attend the meeting.
She figured Orochimaru, stationed on the Iwa Defense Line, would definitely be there as well. Given his strategic importance, it wouldn't make sense for him to miss this. In other words, after being separated for so long, she'd finally get to see him again.
On the other side, Orochimaru was slightly taken aback when he heard about the Hokage's meeting.
His gaze drifted over to Nawaki, who was standing not too far away.
He recalled that in the Second Great Ninja War, Konoha had indeed held a Jonin meeting… but only after Nawaki had died.
Now, seeing Nawaki alive and well in front of him, Orochimaru couldn't help but feel a subtle satisfaction at having altered his student's fate.
"Sensei, are you going to the Jonin meeting?" Nawaki asked, noticing Orochimaru's thoughtful look and jogging over with a grin.