The layers of ripples burst apart.
"Rumble!"
From the side.
The ground heaved open.
A thunderous explosion erupted.
"What's going on!?"
"Looks like it's Orochimaru's place!?"
"Are there intruders!?"
Throughout the surrounding area of the base.
The Sound Ninja most loyal to Orochimaru, along with several specially trained subordinates, surged toward the central area almost the instant the explosions rang out. As Orochimaru's most devoted followers, Sakon and Ukon, Jirobo, Kidomaru, and Tayuya—the Sound Four, who had already lived more than three years longer than in the original story—were willing to give their lives for Orochimaru at any moment. And now someone had dared attack the Lord they revered right under their noses!
Were they tired of living!?
However.
Just as Jirobo, Kidomaru, and the others of the Sound Four led the other Sound Ninja in the base into action.
"Whoosh!"
"Rumble!"
"Water Style: Water Dragon Jutsu!"
"Lightning Style: Earthquake Jutsu!"
"Earth Style!"
From the shadows around the base.
Dozens of figures suddenly sprang out. They wore standard Anbu uniforms and animal masks. They were the elite Snow Ninja Anbu squad that had secretly infiltrated the nearby area under Naruto's arrangements and on Neji's orders. Xinghuo and Hoshichi led them. Personally trained by Naruto and among the finest troops in the Snow Ninja ranks, they wore Chakra Armor and completely overpowered the Sound Ninja before them almost as soon as the battle began.
"I'll handle things here. Xinghuo, take the other two squads to the opposite side. Don't let anyone disturb Lord Sasuke!"
"Got it!"
The Snow Ninja had been lying in wait around the base for some time.
Using special communication and tracking methods.
The moment Sasuke sent the signal.
They launched a direct assault.
Their orders were to block all of Orochimaru's subordinates and prevent anything from interfering