Orochimaru’s Return to the Hidden Leaf at the End of Naruto Shippuden

At the end of Naruto Shippuden, Orochimaru is allowed back into the Hidden Leaf Village, Konohagakure, due to a combination of his character development, contributions during the Fourth Great Ninja War, trust from Tsunade and Naruto, his promise of restraint, and the broader theme of reconciliation and cooperation.

Character Development and Redemption

Throughout the series, Orochimaru undergoes significant character development. After the Fourth Great Ninja War, he reflects on his past actions and seeks redemption. His shift from merely seeking power to wanting to understand life and death marks a notable change. This transformation, coupled with his renewed commitment to positive change, lays the groundwork for his return to the Hidden Leaf Village.

Contributions During the Fourth Great Ninja War

Orochimaru plays a crucial role in the Fourth Great Ninja War, aiding the Allied Shinobi Forces. With his extensive knowledge of forbidden jutsu and past experiences, he becomes a valuable asset. His assistance in the fight against the Ten-Tails and the Akatsuki demonstrates his potential to contribute positively to the village.

Trust from Tsunade and Later Naruto

Tsunade, as the Fifth Hokage, and later Naruto, who becomes the Seventh Hokage, recognize Orochimaru's potential for good. They see his change and his capability to make a positive impact on the village. Tsunade grants him a hideout and a laboratory, allowing him to continue his research, while still maintaining a heavy surveillance to ensure his activities do not threaten the village.

Orochimaru’s Promise of Restraint

Orochimaru makes a solemn promise to keep his ambitions in check and to focus on his research in a manner that does not threaten the village. This commitment helps alleviate some of the concerns his past actions may have raised. His willingness to contribute positively to the community further solidifies his return.

A New Era of Cooperation and Reconciliation

The end of the series marks a new era for the shinobi world, where former enemies begin to cooperate for the greater good. Orochimaru’s return is emblematic of this broader theme of reconciliation and unity. His presence in the village symbolizes the possibility of redemption and the idea that even those who have strayed can find their way back to a path of good.

Although he is not fully integrated into the village, Orochimaru is given a hideout and laboratory to work from, free to conduct his research due to the significant amount of information he possesses. As stated in the Sasuke novel, the Hidden Leaf Village keeps him on this path because he is a valuable tool for their research, particularly in the development of mechanized ninja weapons.

In conclusion, Orochimaru’s return to the Hidden Leaf Village at the end of Naruto Shippuden is a testament to the enduring theme of redemption and the possibility of change. Despite his troubled past, Orochimaru’s character development, contributions, trust, and promise of restraint all contribute to a worthy reintegration into the Hidden Leaf Village, reflecting the broader narrative of unity and cooperation in the shinobi world.