Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group arrives at the Forest of Death for the second exam, proctored by Anko Mitarashi.
• Anko explains the rules: survive for five days, seize other teams' scrolls, and reach the central tower.
• Team 7 is attacked by Sound Village ninja; Duanmu swiftly disables them.
• Team 7 encounters Orochimaru, who has taken their scroll.
• Duanmu engages Orochimaru to buy time for Sasuke and the others to escape.

Character Developments

• Duanmu demonstrates exceptional speed, precision, and ninjutsu skills, revealing his hidden strength.
• Sasuke and Naruto show improvement in their skills but are still no match for Orochimaru's power.
• Sakura is terrified by Orochimaru's presence, highlighting her lack of combat experience.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The stark difference in power between Duanmu/Team 7 and Orochimaru highlights the theme of power dynamics and the struggle for survival in the ninja world.
• Sacrifice for the Team: Duanmu's decision to hold off Orochimaru to allow Sasuke and the others to escape showcases his selflessness and commitment to the team.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Team 7: Duanmu's actions inspire respect and awe in Sasuke and Naruto, deepening their bond as a team.
• Duanmu and Orochimaru: Their brief exchange showcases the vast difference in their power levels and Duanmu's determination to protect his team.

Key Plot Points

• Duanmu, Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto flee from Orochimaru's battle with Duanmu.
• Duanmu uses the Big Ball Rasengan and Flying Raijin Technique to hold off Orochimaru.
• Duanmu rejoins the group, exhausted but determined to reach the finish line.

Character Developments

• Duanmu demonstrates exceptional strength and determination, using powerful techniques to protect his teammates.
• Orochimaru shows interest in Duanmu as a potential vessel, revealing his sadistic nature.
• Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto display concern for Duanmu's well-being and determination to complete the exam.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice and selflessness: Duanmu risks his life to protect his teammates.
• Power and ambition: Orochimaru seeks a powerful vessel, highlighting his ruthless nature.
• Perseverance: Despite exhaustion and danger, Duanmu remains determined to complete the exam.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu, Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto work together to escape Orochimaru.
• Duanmu and Orochimaru engage in a fierce battle, showcasing their skills and determination.
• Duanmu rejoins the group, and they support each other to continue the exam.

Chapter Summary: “Sound Ninja Trio”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• As Duanmu, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura approach the center of the exam site, the Hidden Sound Trio—Dosu, Zaku, and Kin—ambushes them and demands their Second Pillar, still intending to kill Sasuke.
• Although Duanmu is badly weakened, he steps forward to protect Sasuke and tells the others to escape. Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura refuse, emphasizing that they will remain together as a team.
• Dosu launches a sound-wave attack. Duanmu breaks the ground to block it, while Sasuke uses the Sharingan to track the attack and protect Sakura. Naruto creates shadow clones to distract Dosu, but Dosu destroys them with sound barriers.
• Dosu strikes Duanmu and sends him crashing into a tree. Despite coughing blood, Duanmu counters with Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet, forcing Dosu to defend and briefly disrupting him.
• Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto coordinate an attack: Sasuke attempts a kunai strike, Sakura moves in from the side, and Naruto prepares a Rasengan. Zaku intervenes by creating a sand wall that blocks their paths.
• Kin tries to attack Sakura from behind, but Rock Lee appears and knocks away her blades. Lee orders Sakura to retreat and takes responsibility for fighting the Sound ninja.
• Zaku attacks Lee with sand needles, but Lee avoids them and charges toward him using the opening movements of the Front Lotus.
• Dosu attempts a stronger sound-wave assault against Sasuke and Naruto. Sasuke uses his Sharingan to study the attack, while Naruto sends clones forward as distractions, though the sound waves destroy them.
• Tenten and Neji arrive to support the Konoha teams. Tenten restrains Zaku’s hands with chain-linked kunai, interrupting his sand techniques.
• Neji uses the Byakugan to identify a weak point in Dosu’s sound wave and directs Lee toward it. Lee exploits the opening, kicks Dosu’s hands, collapses the sound technique, and follows with a barrage of taijutsu attacks.
• Zaku and Kin begin losing their respective battles, while Dosu is suppressed by Lee. Desperate, Dosu unleashes a massive sound-wave attack intended to reverse the fight.

2. Character Developments

• Duanmu: Despite his injuries and exhaustion, he continues to protect Sasuke and contribute offensively. His use of the newly mastered Water Dragon Bullet demonstrates both his growing skill and determination.
• Naruto: Shows loyalty and courage by refusing to abandon Duanmu. He actively supports the team with shadow clones and prepares a Rasengan for a coordinated attack.
• Sasuke: Reinforces his commitment to teamwork rather than acting alone. His Sharingan becomes essential for reading Dosu’s sound waves and coordinating Naruto’s movements.
• Sakura: Although frightened, she overcomes her fear and stays with the others. She attempts to participate in the attack instead of simply relying on her teammates.
• Rock Lee: Arrives as a determined protector, especially concerned by Duanmu’s condition. His speed, taijutsu, and willingness to take on multiple opponents make him the main force pressuring Dosu.
• Neji: Demonstrates the tactical value of his Byakugan by analyzing the sound-wave technique and identifying its weakest point.
• Tenten: Supports the battle through precise weapon use, effectively neutralizing Zaku’s hand movements and limiting his ninjutsu.
• Dosu, Zaku, and Kin: Their initial confidence erodes as the Konoha ninja cooperate more effectively. Dosu remains dangerous but becomes increasingly desperate as his teammates are pushed back.

3. Significant Themes

• Teamwork and loyalty: Team 7 refuses to abandon Duanmu, and their coordinated attacks show them beginning to function as a true team.
• Courage in the face of fear: Sakura’s decision to stay and fight, along with Duanmu’s refusal to surrender despite his injuries, highlights personal bravery.
• Cooperation overcoming individual strength: The Konoha ninja succeed by combining different abilities—Sharingan perception, Byakugan analysis, taijutsu, weapons, clones, and ninjutsu.
• Perseverance and sacrifice: Duanmu continues fighting while injured, and Lee risks himself to protect Sakura and support his allies.
• Adaptation and tactical awareness: The battle repeatedly turns on recognizing weaknesses, such as Sasuke reading sound waves and Neji locating the gap in Dosu’s defense.

4. Character Interactions

• Duanmu urges Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura to flee, but all three reject the idea, affirming their unity.
• Duanmu and Sasuke work together defensively, with Duanmu blocking Dosu’s attack while Sasuke uses the Sharingan to protect Sakura.
• Sasuke directs Naruto to use clones as distractions, showing growing battlefield cooperation between them.
• Lee protects Sakura from Kin and later tells Duanmu to rest, reflecting his concern for both allies.
• Neji and Lee cooperate closely, with Neji analyzing Dosu’s technique and Lee exploiting the weakness.
• Tenten assists Neji and Lee by restraining Zaku, while the wider Konoha group collectively overwhelms the Sound Trio.
• Dosu’s final wide-area attack marks a dangerous escalation and sets up the next stage of the confrontation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shikamaru's class easily retrieves the remaining scrolls from the Sound Ninja, while Naruto's class had to fight them head-on.
• All teams gather at the center of the exam grounds, where Gaara's team is already present and unharmed.
• The third round of the Chunin Exams begins, with Duanmu facing off against Gaara.

Character Developments

• Duanmu: Shows significant growth in skill and control over multiple nature transformations (water, lightning), as well as strategic thinking.
• Gaara: Remains calm and composed, displaying his immense power and control over sand.
• Naruto: Feels competitive defiance towards Gaara and is eager to face him.
• Sasuke: Recognizes Gaara's power and danger, but remains focused on the exam.
• Sakura: Shows concern for her teammates' safety and well-being.
• Shikamaru: Demonstrates his strategic mind, guiding his classmates to safety and victory.

Significant Themes

• Power and Skill: Characters showcase their abilities, with Duanmu and Gaara's battle highlighting their unique powers and techniques.
• Strategy and Tactics: Shikamaru's Shadow Imitation Technique and Duanmu's combined ninjutsu demonstrate the importance of strategy and adaptability.
• Competition and Rivalry: Naruto's competitive spirit is fueled by Gaara's presence, while Sasuke remains focused on his personal goals.

Character Interactions

• Naruto and Sasuke: Naruto's impulsiveness is tempered by Sasuke's calm reminder to focus on the exam.
• Duanmu and Sakura: Sakura shows concern for Duanmu's well-being after his battle with the Sound Ninja.
• Shikamaru and his classmates: Shikamaru guides his classmates, ensuring their safety and victory, while also complaining about the trouble they've faced.
• Duanmu and Gaara: Their impending battle highlights the tension and anticipation among the examinees and spectators.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu uses his Lightning Style and Wind Style against Gaara, but Gaara's sand defense remains unbroken.
• Duanmu discovers a brief opening in Gaara's defense and stabs him with a Wind Style-infused kunai, breaking his absolute defense.
• Duanmu uses the last of his chakra to launch a Rasengan at Gaara, sending him crashing to the ground.
• The Third Hokage suspends the match due to Gaara's unstable condition.

Character Developments

• Duanmu demonstrates his versatility and resilience, pushing Gaara to his limits despite his chakra exhaustion.
• Gaara shows a rare moment of astonishment when his defense is broken, revealing a hint of his humanity.
• Naruto and Sasuke express their respect for Duanmu's performance.

Significant Themes

• The power of determination and will, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
• The consequences of absolute power and the dangers of losing control.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Gaara's intense battle highlights their contrasting fighting styles and personalities.
• Naruto and Sasuke's reactions to Duanmu's performance show their growing respect for him.
• The Third Hokage's intervention demonstrates his responsibility and concern for the safety of the village.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The third round of the Chunin Exams is set to begin in a month.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi and the disguised Kazekage (Orochimaru) meet, discussing cooperation while secretly probing each other's intentions.
• Duanmu and Gaara's battle ends in a draw, and both are allowed to proceed to the next round due to their resilience and potential.
• Kakashi visits Duanmu in the hospital, accompanied by Naruto and Sasuke.
• Duanmu expresses his desire to learn Chidori from Kakashi.
• Duanmu suggests Naruto seek training from Jiraiya, the "Toad Sage of Mount Myoboku," who is secretly in Konoha.

Character Developments

• Duanmu shows determination to learn Chidori despite the risks, demonstrating his growth and ambition.
• Naruto, though reluctant, agrees to find Jiraiya for training, showing trust in Duanmu's judgment.
• Kakashi agrees to let Naruto find Jiraiya, showing he values Duanmu's input and understands the potential benefits for Naruto.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and determination (Duanmu's desire to learn Chidori)
• Trust and friendship (Duanmu's suggestion for Naruto and Naruto's agreement)
• Guidance and mentorship (Kakashi's agreement to let Naruto find Jiraiya)

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Kakashi: Duanmu expresses his desire to learn Chidori, and Kakashi agrees to teach him under certain conditions.
• Duanmu and Naruto: Duanmu suggests Naruto find Jiraiya for training, and Naruto agrees despite his reluctance.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi and the disguised Kazekage (Orochimaru): They discuss cooperation while secretly plotting against each other.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu begins training in Lightning Release (Chidori) under Kakashi's guidance.
• Sasuke starts practicing dynamic tracking with his Sharingan.
• Duanmu secretly enters the Hokage Building to study ancient sealing texts and finds a mysterious note with a Nine-Tails drawing.

Character Developments

• Duanmu shows dedication and improvement in mastering Chidori, but still has a long way to go.
• Sasuke demonstrates proficiency in using his Sharingan for dynamic tracking.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi shows interest and caution towards Duanmu's actions, choosing to observe him rather than intervene.

Significant Themes

• Patience and persistence in mastering techniques (Duanmu's Chidori training).
• The importance of knowledge and learning (Duanmu's study of sealing techniques).
• Trust and observation in governance (Hiruzen Sarutobi's approach to Duanmu).

Character Interactions

• Kakashi guides Duanmu and Sasuke in their respective trainings, showing approval when Duanmu makes progress.
• Duanmu and Sasuke silently compete in their training, with Sasuke showing respect for Duanmu's progress.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi watches Duanmu's actions through the crystal ball, contemplating his true purpose and intentions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu studies the sealing jutsu texts he obtained and makes progress in understanding them.
• Duanmu and Sasuke's training intensifies under Kakashi's supervision. Duanmu successfully pierces through thirty C-rank rocks with his Lightning Style Shuriken, and Sasuke accurately hits the moving target's bull's-eye multiple times.
• Kakashi agrees to guide Duanmu in basic sealing jutsu. He teaches Duanmu the 'halt' seal and its activation.
• Duanmu and Sasuke begin sparring. Duanmu uses a combination of feints and Shuriken throws, while Sasuke defends with his Sharingan and uses ninjutsu.

Character Developments

• Duanmu: Shows dedication to learning sealing jutsu, makes progress in understanding and activating seals.
• Sasuke: Demonstrates his Sharingan's prowess in defense, uses Fire Style ninjutsu during sparring.
• Kakashi: Reveals his knowledge of sealing jutsu, agrees to guide Duanmu, shows approval of Duanmu's teachability.

Significant Themes

• Learning and growth: Duanmu's determination to learn sealing jutsu and Sasuke's observation of the 'halt' seal indicate their commitment to improving their skills.
• Competition and rivalry: Sasuke's use of ninjutsu during sparring suggests his desire to keep up with Duanmu's progress.
• Mentorship: Kakashi's agreement to guide Duanmu in sealing jutsu highlights the importance of learning from experienced ninjas.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Kakashi: Duanmu asks Kakashi for guidance on sealing jutsu, and Kakashi agrees to teach him the basics.
• Duanmu and Sasuke: They engage in sparring, with Duanmu attacking and Sasuke defending. Sasuke uses ninjutsu during the spar, indicating his competitive spirit.
• Kakashi and Sasuke: Kakashi corrects Sasuke's movements during training and sparring, showing his role as their sensei.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu masters the Chidori, while Sasuke struggles with it.
• Duanmu meets Naruto, who shows him the Summoning Jutsu.
• Duanmu attempts the Summoning Jutsu and gets transported to an unknown dimension.
• He encounters a mysterious, ancient entity that calls itself a dragon, the "Star-Devouring Shadow."

Character Developments

• Duanmu becomes more proficient in the Chidori, demonstrating his dedication to training.
• Sasuke shows signs of impatience and anxiety, hinting at his potential downfall in the original story.
• Naruto's Summoning Jutsu is still unstable, but he remains enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge.
• Duanmu displays curiosity and caution when faced with the unknown, showing his adaptability.

Significant Themes

• The importance of patience and perseverance in training (Duanmu vs. Sasuke).
• The consequences of impatience and anxiety (Sasuke's potential downfall).
• The power of bonds and guidance (Duanmu's concern for Sasuke).
• The exploration of the unknown and its potential dangers (Duanmu's encounter with the "Star-Devouring Shadow").

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Sasuke's training dynamic shows Duanmu's concern for Sasuke's well-being and growth.
• Duanmu and Naruto's interaction highlights their shared enthusiasm for learning new techniques and their friendly rivalry.
• Duanmu's encounter with the "Star-Devouring Shadow" showcases his cautious yet curious nature when dealing with the unknown.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu encounters a "true dragon" after attempting a Summoning Jutsu.
• The dragon offers Duanmu two opportunities: signing a summoning contract with a wolf clan on Moonview Plains and learning thunder senjutsu from the dragon.
• Duanmu is sent back to Konoha after the dragon imprints the basic mental method of thunder senjutsu into his mind.
• Duanmu's disappearance causes concern and a search effort among his teammates and Kakashi.

Character Developments

• Duanmu demonstrates courage and quick thinking in the face of the dragon's wrath, showing his ability to adapt and negotiate.
• Duanmu's determination to learn thunder senjutsu reveals his ambition and willingness to endure pain for growth.
• Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi show concern and initiative in searching for Duanmu, highlighting their teamwork and care for each other.

Significant Themes

• Power and ambition: Duanmu's desire to learn thunder senjutsu and sign a contract with the wolf clan showcases his hunger for power.
• Endurance and perseverance: The dragon warns Duanmu about the dangers and pain involved in cultivating thunder senjutsu, emphasizing the importance of endurance.
• Friendship and teamwork: The concern and effort shown by Duanmu's teammates and Kakashi underscore the importance of their bond.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and the "true dragon": Their interaction is a mix of fear, respect, and negotiation, with Duanmu trying to calm the dragon and gain its favor.
• Duanmu and his teammates: Their concern for Duanmu's disappearance highlights their growing bond and teamwork.
• Duanmu and Kakashi: Kakashi's decision to report Duanmu's disappearance to the Hokage and organize a secret investigation shows his responsibility and care for his student.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu is found by Kakashi, who senses a spatial fluctuation from his sudden appearance.
• Duanmu recounts his encounter with the Star-Devouring Shadow to Hiruzen, who decides to keep the matter confidential and gathers the village's upper leadership.
• Hiruzen and Jiraiya discuss the potential dangers and implications of Duanmu's encounter with the Star-Devouring Shadow.

Character Developments

• Duanmu: Shows maturity and responsibility in reporting his encounter, understanding the gravity of the situation.
• Hiruzen: Demonstrates his wisdom and experience in handling the situation, displaying caution and concern for Duanmu's safety.
• Jiraiya: Shows a serious side, providing valuable insights about Mount Myoboku and the potential dangers of the Thunder Sage Art.

Significant Themes

• The unknown and mysterious aspects of the shinobi world.
• The power and danger of advanced sage arts and legendary beings.
• The responsibility of the Hokage and the village's leadership in handling potential threats.

Character Interactions

• Kakashi and Duanmu: Kakashi shows concern for Duanmu's well-being and immediately reports his sudden appearance to the Hokage.
• Hiruzen and Duanmu: Hiruzen listens attentively to Duanmu's account, taking detailed notes and providing guidance on the Thunder Sage Art.
• Hiruzen and Jiraiya: They work together to assess the situation, with Jiraiya providing valuable insights and Hiruzen making decisions based on their combined knowledge.
• Jiraiya and Duanmu: Jiraiya shows a mix of concern and encouragement towards Duanmu, acknowledging the danger and opportunity presented by the Thunder Sage Art.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu returns to Konoha, and the Hokage convenes a meeting to discuss his experiences and the existence of the Star-Devouring Shadow and the Dragon Palace.
• Danzo suspects Duanmu and suggests he be restrained and investigated, leading to a heated argument with Jiraiya and Hiruzen Sarutobi.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi assigns tasks to various shinobi to investigate the incident and ensure Duanmu's safety, including Jiraiya, Kakashi, Mitokado Homura, Utatane Koharu, and Danzo.

Character Developments

• Duanmu feels uncomfortable and disheartened by Danzo's suspicion and mistrust.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi demonstrates his leadership and wisdom in handling the sensitive situation.
• Danzo's hostility towards Duanmu deepens, driven by his suspicion of unknown powers and his personal grudge.

Significant Themes

• Trust and suspicion among shinobi, especially when dealing with unknown powers.
• The potential risks and benefits of unknown powers, as exemplified by the Thunder Sage Art and the Dragon Palace.
• The importance of protecting one's comrades and the village, even in the face of uncertainty.

Character Interactions

• Danzo and Jiraiya argue over Duanmu's fate, with Danzo expressing suspicion and Jiraiya defending Duanmu.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi mediates the argument and assigns tasks to various shinobi to investigate the incident.
• Duanmu's Team 7 companions express concern for his well-being and support him, boosting his spirits.
• Duanmu, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura reaffirm their determination to do their best in the final round of the Chunin Exams.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Chunin Exams' third stage begins, with daimyo from various countries attending.
• Orochimaru, disguised as the Kazekage, infiltrates the crowd.
• Duanmu's opponent is revealed to be Neji, the Hyuga Clan genius.

Character Developments

• Neji remains bound by his fate and is indifferent, using his skills cruelly.
• Duanmu shows concern for Neji's situation but focuses on the battle.

Significant Themes

• The impact of fate and destiny on individuals.
• The struggle between talent and personal beliefs.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Neji's intense battle showcases their skills and determination.
• Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura worry for Duanmu during his match.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duanmu uses a powerful, unconventional ninjutsu (Lightning Release: Earth Flash) to defeat Neji.
• Neji is left injured and questioning his beliefs about fate.

Character Developments

• Neji: Struggles with his beliefs about fate and his place in the Hyuga Clan after his defeat and Duanmu's words.
• Duanmu: Shows his strategic thinking and determination, as well as his ability to inspire others.

Significant Themes

• Fate vs. Free Will: Duanmu argues that one's fate is not predetermined but shaped by personal actions and choices.
• Struggle and Perseverance: Duanmu's journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of improvement despite hardships.
• The Power of Words: Duanmu's speech challenges Neji's worldview and plants seeds of doubt and introspection.

Character Interactions

• Duanmu vs. Neji: Their battle highlights their contrasting views on fate and their respective strengths.
• Duanmu's speech to Neji: Duanmu's words challenge Neji's beliefs and offer him a new perspective on his life and struggles.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Chunin Exam continues with Shikamaru, Sasuke, and Naruto winning their matches.
• Orochimaru initiates a full-scale invasion of Konoha, using the Sound Four's genjutsu, Sunagakure ninjas, and a giant three-headed serpent.
• Orochimaru summons the First and Second Hokage as puppets to fight against the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
• Hiruzen summons his contracted summoning beast, Enma, to aid him in the battle against the two former Hokage and Orochimaru.

Character Developments

• Duanmu focuses on supporting Hiruzen, demonstrating his strategic thinking and concern for the village.
• Orochimaru reveals his true intentions and power, showing no mercy towards his former sensei and the former Hokage.
• Hiruzen displays his resolve and determination to protect Konoha, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of ambition and obsession with power (Orochimaru).
• Loyalty and dedication to one's village and comrades (Hiruzen, Duanmu).
• The struggle between the old guard and the new generation (Hiruzen vs. Orochimaru).

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Hiruzen share a silent understanding as Duanmu supports Hiruzen from afar.
• Orochimaru's cruel and disrespectful treatment of Hiruzen highlights their strained master-disciple relationship.
• Hiruzen and Enma work together, showcasing their trust and teamwork in the face of powerful enemies.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Second Hokage, Tobirama Senju, and the First Hokage, Hashirama Senju, controlled by Orochimaru, attack Hiruzen Sarutobi and Duanmu.
• Duanmu uses his speed and ninjutsu to disrupt the controlled Hokages' attacks and create openings for Hiruzen.
• Hiruzen attempts to use the Reaper Death Seal but is hindered by the controlled Hokages.
• Orochimaru joins the battle, revealing his true intentions and power.

Character Developments

• Hiruzen Sarutobi shows determination and resolve in protecting Konoha, recognizing Duanmu's abilities.
• Duanmu demonstrates his strategic thinking and adaptability in fighting against powerful opponents.
• Orochimaru reveals his true colors, showing no regard for the lives of the controlled Hokages.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of power and ambition (Orochimaru's desire to control the Hokages).
• The importance of teamwork and strategy in battle (Duanmu and Hiruzen's coordination).
• The struggle against overwhelming odds (Duanmu and Hiruzen against the controlled Hokages and Orochimaru).

Character Interactions

• Duanmu and Hiruzen work together, with Duanmu creating openings and Hiruzen attempting to attack Orochimaru.
• Duanmu's actions earn Hiruzen's recognition and trust.
• Orochimaru's interactions with the controlled Hokages show his lack of respect for their lives and well-being.