Chapter 118: Orochimaru's Invitation

"Why me?"

Uchiha Li asked, feigning curiosity while remaining calm and composed.

He knew well that in the original story, Orochimaru had joined the Akatsuki with ulterior motives, eventually even turning against Itachi shortly after the latter’s recruitment. Unquestionably, Orochimaru had failed in that endeavor and was forced to defect. Given this history, he had never imagined that Orochimaru would be genuinely committed to helping the Akatsuki.

*Wait a moment,* Uchiha Li suddenly considered a possibility. *Could this guy be planning to lure me into the Akatsuki just to find an opportunity to deal with me?*

Although Orochimaru currently emphasized that he only desired the bodies of Shisui or Itachi, was that really the truth? He had, after all, made attempts on Li himself in the past. It was only because Li had already awakened his Mangekyo Sharingan at the time that Orochimaru couldn't gain any advantage. Back then, Orochimaru had been somewhat hesitant to reveal his full strength, avoiding complex ninjutsu and relying solely on close-quarters combat in an attempt to subdue him. Because he hadn't exerted his full power, Orochimaru likely didn't believe Li was actually his equal.

Now, much like Shisui and Itachi, Li spent most of his time in the village, where it was impossible for Orochimaru to make a move. But once he ventured outside, there was no telling whether Orochimaru would attempt to strike. While Li did not fear him, he intended to keep the secret of his Mangekyo for as long as possible. Even if he were forced to use its power, it should be done under the guise of "Carosso."

Thinking this, Uchiha Li did not wait for an answer and added calmly, "Teacher, you don't have any ill intentions toward your own student, do you?"

"Hmph." Orochimaru let out a cold snort. "Li-kun, you are overthinking this."

Uchiha Li tilted his head. "Then why? There must be a reason. It’s very strange for you to suddenly want me to join some obscure organization. Besides, I am doing perfectly well in the village. How could an outside organization compare to it?"

At this time, the Akatsuki did not have much fame; it primarily functioned as a mercenary group helping various factions complete tasks to accumulate initial resources. From a logical standpoint, it was only natural for Uchiha Li, as a member of Konoha, to hold the Akatsuki in disdain. If he had shown interest or any other reaction upon hearing the name, that would have been the greatest flaw in his performance.

Hearing this, Orochimaru revealed a sinister smile.

"The reason I want you to join the Akatsuki is that I know you are the same kind of person as I am. You should realize that the village will only limit your growth in the end. Only by joining the Akatsuki can you take that next step! As for the organization itself..."

Orochimaru paused, a flicker of apprehension crossing his eyes. "It is far more terrifying than you, or anyone else, could imagine."

At the beginning, he had shared the same mindset as Uchiha Li. How strong could a mercenary group attached to various factions really be? He hadn't taken it seriously when he first encountered Pain. But it wasn't until Pain unleashed the 'Shinra Tensei' that he understood what true terror was. All his methods had been useless; he was defeated almost without a chance to resist. If the Akatsuki hadn't been in need of capable personnel, he would likely have been finished then and there.

That power, which did not belong to the realm of ninjas, was difficult even for Kage-level experts to oppose. He had carefully confirmed that Pain's abilities were identical to the legendary powers of a sage. And those eyes were the ultimate proof.

Watching Orochimaru’s lingering fear, Uchiha Li spoke: "I am sorry, but these reasons are not enough to sway me."

Truthfully, if he didn't have Terra and were just an ordinary Uchiha, he might have agreed to Orochimaru's invitation for the sake of survival. Of course, without Terra, he wouldn't have dared to have much contact with Orochimaru in the first place, and such an invitation would never have come. But that was merely a hypothesis.

Now, the crisis of the Uchiha clan’s annihilation had been averted through his series of maneuvers. Konoha was currently the best nourishment for Terra. In such a situation, why would he look far afield?

"Li-kun, don't be so quick to refuse." Orochimaru seemed to have anticipated this response and spoke quickly.

Uchiha Li nodded, signaling for him to continue.

Orochimaru’s gaze drifted past him, glancing at the towering Hokage Rock in the distance. He said softly, "You have not yet witnessed the power of the Akatsuki, so it is natural for you to be skeptical. I did not expect you to agree immediately. In a while, I hope you will venture out. Once you see the terror of that person, you will understand..."

Orochimaru fell silent, watching Uchiha Li quietly. To be honest, he wouldn't have come if Pain hadn't repeatedly pressured him to recruit new members. He knew his student too well; Li’s arrogance was no less than his own. But since the 'Terra' incident two years ago, Pain had been seeking to expand the ranks, and he had been tasked with bringing in at least one person of significant ability. After much deliberation, he had concluded that his 'fine' student was the only suitable candidate.

Uchiha Li listened to Orochimaru’s confident tone and thought for a moment. "I cannot give you a guarantee because I am very satisfied with my current life. However, if absolute safety can be guaranteed, I would be interested in seeing what the Akatsuki is like. If the organization is held in such high regard by you, Teacher, it must have some extraordinary qualities."

He had no intention of joining, but since Orochimaru had put it this way, a direct refusal might damage their 'relationship.' He did not plan to break with Orochimaru yet; his cheap teacher was still quite useful. Before the wool was completely shorn, they needed to maintain a good relationship. It was better to give an ambiguous answer for now and deal with it later. After all, the condition of 'guaranteed absolute safety' was impossible, and he could always find a reason to decline.

Orochimaru looked deeply at Uchiha Li. "Very well. I believe you will understand once you have seen it for yourself."

Although he hadn't received a definitive answer, he trusted in Pain’s power. Once someone witnessed that strength, it was impossible to ignore. He had no doubt that someone like Uchiha Li would be tempted.

"Then, I will take my leave." Uchiha Li nodded and prepared to depart.

Orochimaru spoke again: "Wait, there is one more thing."

Uchiha Li paused. "Please, go ahead."

Orochimaru narrowed his eyes. "You said before that you could help me gather intelligence on the Old Man..."