Originally written for missing_nin, a Naruto drabble community on LiveJournal which I manage with wicked_innuendo. Feel free to check it out! :)

Warning: Orochimaru

In the end, the decision is simple. Most decisions are.

Sarutobi-sensei had made it clear the Hokage's seat meant more to him than anything else, Tsunade was long gone and Jiraiya… he probably wouldn't want to be associated with you after he was told your sensei's version of the story.

There was nothing left to hold you to Konoha… hold you back…

"Orochimaru-sensei, are you leaving?" the genin looks up at you so earnestly, you know you can't tell her the truth. She would hear it tomorrow anyway. News spreads fast in troubled times.

"I'll be back, Anko-chan. Good night."

End Note: Reviews are appreciated!