Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

"Danzo, let's not dwell on trivial matters," Hiruzen Sarutobi interjected, smoothing over the tension. "Uzumaki Raiden is now the vice-captain of Anbu; it's fine for him to be privy to this information."

Hiruzen's words eased Raiden's doubts. He now fully understood that his promotion was real.

"Vice-captain of Anbu? When did you decide this, Sarutobi-sensei?" Raiden asked, still trying to process the news.

"Just yesterday, after your sparring session with Orochimaru," Sarutobi replied. "And your timing is perfect. I was about to call for you. There's a mission requiring your collaboration with Hatake Sakumo."

As Sarutobi gestured to the Anbu operative who had just reported, Raiden listened intently.

The Anbu briefed Raiden on Sand Ninja's recent movements. A large force from Sand Ninja Village had been deployed near the borders of the Land of Fire, splitting into smaller units as if searching for something.

"Teacher, are you certain Sand Ninja sent a large force to search for something? Is the intelligence reliable?" Raiden asked, his tone grave.

"It is reliable," Sarutobi confirmed. "You need not question the source."

Hiruzen leaned forward slightly, studying Raiden. "Now, tell me, do you have any ideas based on what you've heard?"

Raiden's mind raced. A flash of insight struck him. "Teacher, I have a question. Is Chiyo's grandson still in Sand Ninja Village?"

Hiruzen raised an eyebrow at the seemingly unrelated question. "You mean the genius puppet master they call the 'Scorpion of Red Sand'? Why bring him up now?"

Raiden's heart sank. His knowledge of future events from another timeline painted a grim picture. He remembered that the disappearance of the Third Kazekage—killed by Chiyo's grandson, Sasori—had sparked the Third Great Ninja War. Could this be the precursor to those events?

"Yes, teacher," Raiden said. "Sasori might play a key role in Sand Ninja's actions. His genius in puppetry, combined with his potential motives, could explain their unusual movements."

Hiruzen and Sakumo exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued.

"The Scorpion of Red Sand has been a renowned name for years," Sarutobi said. "He's considered a future candidate for Kazekage. However, he has been reclusive lately, devoting himself entirely to the study of puppetry."

"From what I've heard," Sakumo added, "he stopped leaving the village for missions years ago. He's young, but he's already made a name for himself."

"That fits," Raiden murmured. "If Sasori is involved, it might explain the large-scale mobilization. This could be tied to something happening within Sand Ninja Village itself."

"You have a point," Hiruzen said. "But speculation isn't enough. Are you ready to accept this mission?"

"I'll take it," Raiden replied. "But is it just me and Sakumo-senpai on this task?"

"Not at all," Sarutobi said with a smile. He called out, "Come in!"

Four masked Anbu entered the office. Under Sarutobi's direction, they removed their masks, revealing their identities.

"Shibi Aburame, Shikaku Nara, Inoichi Yamanaka, and Choza Akimichi," Hiruzen introduced. "They'll be your teammates for this mission."

Raiden's eyes lit up as he recognized them. "The Ino-Shika-Cho trio and an Aburame. This is quite the lineup," he said, his smile carrying a hint of respect.

Shikaku stepped forward, studying Raiden. "We've heard of you, Uzumaki Raiden. There's no need for introductions."

Raiden chuckled. "I've heard of all of you as well."

Shikaku raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You know us?"

"Of course," Raiden said casually. "Your families have a long history in Konoha. Your reputations precede you."

Hiruzen observed the exchange with a mix of curiosity and unease. How does Raiden know so much about them? he wondered silently.

"Alright," Sarutobi said, interrupting the moment. "You'll all need to prepare. Sakumo will lead the mission, with Raiden as vice-captain."

The group nodded in unison, and Sarutobi dismissed them to make their preparations.

As they left the Hokage Building, Raiden walked with his new team, exchanging light conversation. After a brief chat, he returned home to prepare for the mission.

"This is my first chance to go outside the village in a while. I'll need to be ready," Raiden thought as he began packing his gear.

Meanwhile, back in the Hokage's office, Sarutobi turned to Danzo. "How does Raiden know such specific information about our Anbu? Did you provide it?"

"Of course not," Danzo replied, his tone defensive.

"Then find out where he's getting this information," Sarutobi ordered.

Danzo nodded and left the room.

Back at home, Raiden finished his preparations, determined to uncover the truth behind Sand Ninja's mysterious actions.

(End of this chapter)