Welcome to the next chapter!
joharasbel; Thanks!
LezarioFanficio; Yeah, she could be.
ShadowUzumaki55; Thanks! He is yeah, we'll soon see them interacting with one another. Ryouta surely did yeah, he'd not be falling for any tricks of Jiraiya's. He's helping out Naruko the best way that he can do yeah. Orochimaru's going insane through a lot of different methods and means, he's trying his best to keep ahold of his sanity, but it's proving to be quite difficult. It's going to be fun when he does yeah. Konan did yeah, seems like she's growing to care for him as time goes on.
Silver crow; Thanks. Yeah, they'll be meeting and having some scenes together pretty soon. Orochimaru's going through a lot yeah. Yeah, he and Satsuki had a nice goodbye. Yeah, Ryouta saw through what Jiraiya had planned, and put a stop to that immediately. Glad you liked the little date scene between Ryouta and Naruko. Konan and Ryouta had quite a more pleasant parting this time. Jiraiya did say it held more power. We'll see what's going on with Tsunade yeah. Maybe Manda could do yeah. Ameyuri's fate we'll soon see about. Thanks for the harem suggestions! Tsunade will see him for who he is.
Guest 1; Yeah, she's messing with Orochimaru quite a bit, we'll see how that goes pretty soon~ Perhaps she could give assistance somehow during the fight. Glad you liked the Konan part.
Guest 2; Right now he can't, but he'll learn to fire it off.
Skull Flame; Yukine surely is, and yeah, you're right about that, Orochimaru's going to become rather dangerous the more his sanity is taken.
Guest 3; Yeah, he'd be pretty cool if he did have moments like that without being able to see. Orochimaru definitely is going through quite a lot when it comes to Yukine, and his arms, the combination is very deadly with the man. Yeah, she even invades his dreams, so when he does sleep, she's always there. Glad you liked the moment between Naruko and Ryouta. Konan did yeah, she appreciated a few things about Ryouta during their brief time together, so we'll see how it goes from here. He can use it yeah. Yeah, I could see them and Ryouta brainstorming with one another. Yeah, he'll discuss the inspirations for the Jutsu. Yeah, Ryouta and Jiraiya will have some moments together as they discuss a few things going on. We'll see how it goes with Tsunade and Orochimaru, and what's in store for the pair of them. He will meet her this chapter, and get to speak with her quite soon. Thanks very much!
Morregen; Thanks! Yeah, they'll be meeting one another quite soon. Orochimaru and Ryouta shall be coming into contact very soon, we'll see how it goes this time. They're pretty cool names, thanks for the suggestions!
Guest 4; I can't spoil yet, but Shisui's eyes are out there.
TheGreatGodzilla; Because it would skip huge things for Tsunade, and Naruko, and Ryouta, among others, it's an important arc for a few characters. Jiraiya's interests stem from seeing Ryouta's new Jutsu, his relationship with Naruko, and his overall skills as a Ninja among other things. It's a good name for it. If she caused trouble, then she'd not be that hard to deal with, changing someones views and beating them in battle would require two different kind of skills. Girl or woman is fine yeah. I've already got names for each of Ryouta's children in mind, it would be spoiling if I said them, they'll be said eventually. I can't say how they'll be introduced yet, it would spoil on their introductions. Not yet.
Hinata fan; Yeah, they'll be sharing some scenes pretty soon. He's doing his best to help yeah. Tsunade and Shizune will figure out pretty quickly on what's going on with Orochimaru. I'm sure Ryouta will be yeah. Thanks for the suggestions.
Mrgamerandwatcher; Maybe a scene like that could happen yeah.
Guest 5; We'll see Tsunade yeah, perhaps it will.
With those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Orochimaru's offer!
Travelling on the road again, Ryouta and Jiraiya watched Naruko continuing her training even out on the road. It seemed that while beginning to get into her own rhythm, she still hasn't been able to master all of the fundamentals.
They had managed to get towards Tanzaku town, the town that Tsunade and the others were currently in, though they didn't fully know that as of the time that they had reached the town.
Ryouta couldn't see anything yet with his Sharingan eyes, but was keeping himself ready in case he found Orochimaru or Tsunade or anyone that could cause harm to Naruko and the others as well. Though he did wonder if the Akatsuki would show up at all, and what could happen if she did show up now.
Jiraiya though took this opportunity to speak towards her.
"By the way, Uchiha boy."
Ryouta paused, and turned towards Jiraiya.
"Yes Jiraiya-san?"
"You got a name for that Jutsu of yours yet?"
Ryouta hummed, understanding what he was referring to.
"Well, I have some thoughts. But I don't know yet, why do you ask?"
Jiraiya stroked his chin, recalling what he saw of the Jutsu, and remembering how effective it was against something as strong as Itachi's Genjutsu.
"It's just, the power of the Jutsu, and what I saw of it, I am curious about a few things. But since you are your Mother's son, as Mikoto had said about you, you are truly trying to make different kinds of Jutsu's, aren't you?"
Ryouta inclines his neck in agreement.
"Yes, the Rasengan is such a strong Jutsu, and I thought that I could potentially create something with the base Jutsu, which is already incredible. When Kakashi-sensei showed it me, I got inspired by that, and other things as well."
"Ahaha, I see. So that's how it is after all. You are quite the strange, but interesting Uchiha. The only other Uchiha I've met like you is your Dad."
"You met my Dad?"
Ryouta was half surprised.
He assumed that Jiraiya might know of his Father, but the way that he was speaking it sounded as if he had at least one or more positive interactions with his Dad.
Jiraiya gained a wide grin on his face.
"I surely did. The stories I've got about your Dad, I could fill a good few pages. But that was a good long time ago."
"Speaking of, since you were on a team with Tsunade-san, you'd probably know her better than anyone else."
"I do know her well. But I feel like you want to ask a question?"
"Yes...do you think she'll become Hokage?"
Jiraiya paused, and his eyes turned towards the right hand side.
"Honestly, I don't have a clue at all. She is someone that has a lot of trauma because of her time in the village. She has lost a lot, but she also did love the village. Either way, I don't know, but for Konoha's sake, it would definitely be a huge asset for her to be in Konoha, Hokage or not."
Ryouta thought that did make a good deal of sense.
However, in the middle of their talk, Ryouta's eyes caught the sight of something.
It was chakra, and it felt strong.
One that he recognized a good deal.
"Ooh shit..."
"What?"
Jiraiya asked, Ryouta double checked to see if he was sure.
And when he was, he saw something he didn't care to see, and withdrew his sword immediately, readying himself to fight at any moments time.
"Jiraiya-san, I can see Orochimaru's chakra, with Tsunade-san."
Jiraiya's face dropped, while Naruko did a spit take.
"W-What?! That guy from the forest is here?!"
Naruko yelled out, Ryouta nods his head.
"Yes, that's right, he's here. Jiraiya-san, can I suggest that I stick close to Naruko, while you go out ahead, and I support you?"
"...Yeah, keep that girl close. If he is there, and he tries anything..."
"Yes, I have enough chakra to repel Orochimaru. Thankfully he's been weakened now, so he can't be as dangerous as he was. But, he's still someone that is very dangerous even if he is weakened..."
"Exactly, now lets go. Be careful, and be prepared."
Ryouta nods, and gets beside Naruko.
Jiraiya then goes forward, prepared for any kind of fight that is ahead of them.
Tsunade and Orochimaru had a stare down. Seeing the way his eyes were rolling around, his focus having been cut to something that he couldn't fully control, the fact that he was also seemingly dashing his eyes side to side.
The young man Kabuto beside him seemed a bit calmer, however he still seemed to have some worry and cockiness on his face that mixed together.
Shizune on the other hand comforted the small pig that she was carrying around, since it seemed to be worried.
Tsunade however went to speak, when Orochimaru's eyes bulged, seeing Yukine moving her hands and clicking her fingers, only igniting rage within Orochimaru.
"Here it comes Orochimaru, you're about to see why Tsunade wont want to help you."
"I don't care what you think! Tsunade will help me...even if I have to make her..."
"She is a Sannin as well you know? You can't force her that easily."
"We'll see wont we?!"
Tsunade was perplexed on what was going on. Because she wasn't privy to the Yukine side of the conversation, it was clear that she wasn't going to be able to understand the emotional turmoil that he was going through right now, and what brinks Yukine was pushing him too at this moment in time.
Kabuto on the other hand worried for Orochimaru, since he could see his Masters eyes were displaying hostility, even for him due to how Yukine was slowly but surely breaking the man's mind, making it so he couldn't focus.
"Orochimaru, coming here..." Her eyes went towards his bandaged arms, and saw the pain on his face. "I see, so that's what it is after all. You can forget it, I wont heal your arms..."
"You'll do as I say or I'll kill you!"
His voice was wild, and near incomprehensible with how he spouted it out.
Tsunade was taken aback by the rage.
She thought that he might try and persuade her, not be volatile with the words that he was using.
"Threatening to kill me now? You don't know how to make a good bargain, do you?"
Orochimaru breathed hard out and in from his nose, attempting to keep his anger at bay but proved it to be difficult.
"...What I meant was, heal my arms Tsunade." His unhinged eyes went to Yukine who waved cheerfully. "Not a word out of you! You can stop this nonsense right now!"
Tsunade, still in the middle of her perplexity at Orochimaru's sudden wild change of sanity, had to question what was going on.
"Who the hell are you speaking with? And how did your arms get like that?"
Orochimaru's eyeballs gained veins within them, showing the stress he was under, and turned to Tsunade once more, seeing that she looked confused.
"It's her...it's Yukine...she's always there...she's haunting me...day, night...my spirit is being destroyed because of her...I can't think straight, my arms are constantly in pain. My body and soul are breaking from one another, and I am beginning to question everything..."
The way he said it, she could tell that he was truly in pain. Mental pain that was leaving him feeling more irritable, unable to concentrate, and his general health, he looked worse each passing moment, as if it was something that truly had affected her soul in some serious and meaningful ways.
"Yukine...but she's been dead...unless...no, you couldn't have...you didn't use your Jutsu to bring her back..."
Tsunade figured it out midway through her conversation with the snake like human and found the act such a vile thing to even do, considering the past that the pair had with one another.
Orochimaru on the other hand didn't seem to share such sentimental stuff, and gained veins within his eyes as he lunged forward, Tsunade dodged out of the way, and watched as he violently swung his head side to side, as if fighting some invisible ghost.
"Ooh Orochimaru, how many times are you going to attack me before realizing you can't do a damn thing to me?"
Yukine scolded, with Orochimaru's left eye twitching.
Upon seeing that, she could see that Yukine truly had done a good deal on Orochimaru, and she was proud as well.
Orochimaru elegantly (as much as humanly possible for him) tried to face towards Tsunade once more, her back near a wall, and seeing the eyes of Orochimaru burning towards her.
"It was a mistake, wasn't it?! Her Uchiha son who's body I will take for myself and have his glorious power, that's right Yukine, you wont stop me! Along with that damn Sarutobi-sensei tag teamed me, and got her under their control, and then she Dead Demon Consuming Sealed me! If it wasn't for that, then I would have killed the bastard!"
When hearing that, Tsunade's face took a turn for anger, she didn't like how he had tried to kill her former Sensei, and destroy Konoha as a whole. As well as seemingly targeting Yukine's child to try and steal his body as well.
"You tried to kill Sarutobi-sensei...you really did try and destroy Konoha. But you lost to a kid huh?"
"No I didn't lose to a kid! He has those damn eyes!"
Tsunade raised a brow.
"Sharingan?"
She remembered Yukine marrying a man from the Uchiha, so that made the most sense to Tsunade.
"Evolved form. I'll show him and Konoha. Now heal my arms!"
She knew that Orochimaru was losing it. He usually would have been more composed than this, even with pain in his arms, so whatever Jutsu Yukine had done to him, had been affecting Orochimaru's mental state all the more.
"I refuse to help you. You'll only try and destroy Konoha, and kill Sarutobi-sensei. I might have complex feelings for my old home, but I wont assist you in its destruction you bastard! Also, really? Targeting your former students son? Effectively killing him if you take him over. Have you no feelings at all?"
Orochimaru's right eyebrow twitched.
"You wont assist me? Yet you're willing to walk away from Konoha because some loved ones of yours died? You turned your back on Konoha a long time ago, when your loved ones died. Even if that boy I take over dies and then Sarutobi-sensei, why should it matter to you? Death shouldn't bother someone who's suffered so much of it."
When she heard that, Shizune felt angered on Tsunade's behalf, who in turn was quietly allowing her rage to build up within her. Going harder, and stronger than ever, she wished to show Orochimaru the depths of her feelings.
"Speaking like that about Tsunade-sama, I wont let you Orochimaru!"
But Shizune beat her too it, and revealed several poison tipped needles between her fingers, rushing towards the deranged snake like human, only for Kabuto to get in the way, and stopped her progress all together.
"Tsunade, call your apprentice off, or I'll kill her!"
Tsunade glared, and moved her hand in front of Shizune.
"Shizune, calm down. It's fine."
Shizune lowered her head, and pulled back, understanding the growing and near uncontrollable rage within her.
As she did, Tsunade's fist beat on a wall behind her. With even a casual hit, the entire wall was decimated completely. Reduced to rubble, and leaving nothing but her true intentions behind, and that was a warning for Orochimaru.
"Leave Orochimaru, I've had enough of hearing your nonsense. I don't care if you're suffering, I wont aid in the destruction of Konoha."
Orochimaru could see that speaking conventionally wouldn't be working, so he tried a different tactic, and adopted a semi deranged, and semi psychotic expression on his face.
"You wouldn't even do it if I brought back Dan and Nawaki?"
Tsunade's face turned to complete shock.
Two people from her past, her lover Dan, and her little brother Nawaki.
"...Bring them back?"
Orochimaru saw a crack within Tsunade's mental armour, and understood this would be the best way to go about it now.
"That's right, in exchange for healing my arms, I will bring back those two that died so unfairly. Giving them another chance of life."
Shizune was worried, seeing that Orochimaru's words were making Tsunade pause.
Even maybe considering actually doing such a thing for Orochimaru.
"...Even if I did, you would only turn and destroy Konoha."
"Isn't Konoha the reason why you're suffering like this? Because of Konoha, and war, those two you loved so dearly, who held onto that necklace around your neck, still died. What I'm offering, is a chance for you to finally get what you desire. Those you love, can return back to you. What does my agenda matter to you?"
While he spoke, Tsunade saw that he kept moving his head, and twitching around as if he was feeling some mental trauma, and when he finished, he turned and yelled "Stop now!" showing that Yukine was hammering in home the pain so Orochimaru would suffer even more.
Tsunade thought about what offer he had just given her.
To bring back her loved ones, but in doing so, she would be dooming others to death.
Shizune on the other hand immediately rejected it.
"Tsunade-sama, don't listen to Orochimaru. Kill him while he's weakened. My Uncle Dan and your little brother Nawaki wouldn't ever place their lives above the village that they loved so much. They wouldn't want this, and...he's crazy."
Tsunade stopped Shizune with her hand going towards her.
As if she was silencing her without speaking, Tsunade turned towards Orochimaru, and her rage builds up on her face.
Seeing his cocky, arrogant smug face going towards her, the images of her loved ones filled her minds, the way they died, and how they weren't able to be with her, she couldn't take Orochimaru's expressions.
She raised her foot, and swung it for Orochimaru who let out a surprised cry, and received a kick right in his jaw. The force and pain of the attack was more than enough to send him flying down the street.
The ground tore up as he flew across it with such speed that even Shizune was happy to see that.
"Orochimaru-sama!"
Kabuto rushed towards him, as Tsunade moved to intercept him.
However, as she did, she saw something that caused her to paralyze in fear.
It was blood.
Orochimaru's at that.
Scattering across the ground, and dripped off of some rocks that had been torn up from the ground, she felt it deep inside, a deep seated fear that made her body shake side to side.
When seeing that, Orochimaru smirked with a hint of madness in his eyes.
"Blood...it seems that fear still is within you..."
"Get lost..."
Tsunade threatened, her confidence shaken as she felt the deep seated fear of blood.
But Orochimaru taunted, his sadistic tendencies growing all the more.
"It seems that you have a few things to work though. I don't mind if you have sometime to think. I'll give you a week. Think about my offer, and then I'll hear your answer. I'm sure you'll make the right decision. For your brother, and lovers sake. If you choose not to heal me, then you'll suffer the consequences and join your loved ones, that's a guarantee. So, don't even think about leaving town either. I've made new friends since we last saw one another, you wont beat me."
Orochimaru began laughing, but his laugh had a sense of emotional turmoil as the echo of Yukine was still speaking to him, and causing him to feel less and less like himself as time went on, this pain was something he never thought that he'd feel.
But then turned towards the right, and scowled deeply.
"Kabuto, lets go right now!"
Kabuto cringed, and disappeared together with Orochimaru.
Shizune saw that Tsunade fell to her knees, and looked at the blood spreading around the different areas.
"Tsunade-sama..."
Shizune looked at Tsunade, seeing the turmoil on her face, in part thanks to seeing the blood, but also the choices presented to her.
"Orochimaru...he's different to the last time I saw him...he's acting more reckless, yet he's still wickedly evil and dangerous...Dan...Nawaki..."
Either heal Orochimaru and get her loved ones back, or she'd have to fight Orochimaru. Even with his arms as badly damaged as they are, she knew that he was still a monster in combat, and with his unhinged state, she would have to begin thinking on what to do.
When Ryouta and the others arrived, they found nothing there. The destroyed castle behind them, and the wall that had been destroyed as well. Jiraiya recognized this sight immediately, and laughed to himself.
"Yeah, that's Tsunade for you. It seems that she was here."
Ryouta looked around, but couldn't see her chakra anywhere.
"Wherever she is, she isn't here. But, with this destruction, was she in a fight with Orochimaru?"
"I do hope so, she does hit hard so I wouldn't be surprised if he tried to fight her...or get something else from her."
"Something else...ooh, I see..."
Ryouta came to the conclusion Jiraiya had, Naruko looks on with a clueless face.
"Eeh, what's going on?"
With Naruko's confusion, Ryouta explained the best that he could do.
"Orochimaru probably came to ask her to heal him, that's if they got that far. From the surrounding area, maybe it didn't. Tsunade-san is supposed to be the number one Medical Ninja in the world, if there's anyone that could potentially undo the damage caused by the Dead Demon Consuming Seal even a little, then it would be her."
Ryouta did wonder if that was the case, Jiraiya wasn't sure either.
"Can you track either of their chakras now?"
Ryouta's eyes danced around the area, using what his keen eyes would tell him.
Eventually, he did see some of her chakra colour so he began walking forward.
"I can see a faint look of chakra this way. Tsunade-sans."
"Great, then lets get going."
They all nod, and continue going towards the area Ryouta saw her chakra with his eyes.
They continued on into the town, and searched for about twenty minutes, until finally finding them within a restaurant.
"Here, her chakra together with another strong chakra. But it isn't Orochimaru's."
"Aah, there she is. It seems...haha, lets get going then."
Jiraiya and the others went inside.
When they did, Ryouta's face came into contact with something very large and soft.
He could even hear a heartbeat as the soft cushion like objects were pressing against his face.
He looked up, and saw Tsunade's eyes looking down at him.
"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh! Kid, y-you got to...Tsunade's...a-and she's not hitting you...!"
"R-Ryou, your head is in that woman's boobs!"
Jiraiya's jaw hitting the floor, and immense jealousy through his eyes, while Naruko looked bewildered.
Ryouta's head was buried in the middle of Tsunade's chest.
"Hello Tsunade-san, how've you been...?"
Ryouta began with a rapidly growing blush on his cheeks, Tsunade's eyebrows furrowing.
"Boy...who the...wait, your face looks familiar..."
"Yes...we've done this before...when you came to Konoha..."
Tsunade cast her mind back, then she remembered when it happened last time, and laughed.
"Yeah, that's right, you're the little Uchiha boy that walked into my breasts the last time we met, you've grown quite a bit and become handsome, haha time really has passed by. So, second meeting, second time you've walked into my chest."
Ryouta blushed hard, and pulled back away from her chest, bowing a single time.
"So sorry about that~"
"Well, since I can see you aren't like that idiot Jiraiya. Misunderstandings happen. Don't worry about it."
"Thank you for understanding Tsunade-san, it's nice seeing you again."
"It seems we keep meeting like this, will it happen next time?"
Ryouta blinked at the slight teasing and joking tone she gave, he chuckled lightly and smiled softly.
Tsunade gave semi bemused eyes while Jiraiya still looked shell shocked.
Tsunade glanced at Jiraiya for the expression he was making.
"Seriously Jiraiya, you haven't changed."
Tsunade sighed, before walking back to her table, so they followed.
She sat down next to Shizune, as the others came around the table.
"Jiraiya..." Tsunade began when seeing Jiraiya sat down opposite her. "...It's been a long time. I wasn't expecting to run into you again."
"Yeah, it's been too long."
Tsunade placed a hand to her forehead, seeing that Jiraiya had some thoughts on his mind at that moment in time.
"So, what have you come here for?"
"I'm sure you have heard by now what happened within Konoha? With the attack."
Tsunade exhaled, the rumours she heard, and from Orochimaru...it wasn't a lie.
"...So it is true after all."
Jiraiya nods his head.
"Yes, it's because of Orochimaru and his plots. Sarutobi-sensei has been through a lot, and is entering retirement. That's why, we've come here, for you to become Hokage."
Tsunade was surprised by such an offer.
But the rejected it immediately.
"I have no interest in such a position."
When she dismissed it with a tone that suggested there was slight venom of the job itself, Naruko's brows furrowed to a degree it was clear that she was a little annoyed with Tsunade.
"Why not?" Naruko began, showing a scowl. "If I was offered the chance to become Hokage, then I'd do it immediately! Besides, there's people back in the village that need you! We just had a war, there's still people that's hurt!"
Ryouta could see that Naruko was getting agitated, probably because of the passion she felt for such a position, he thought. How she truly wished to be something that the village could respect, and by how Tsunade seemed to be dismissive of such a position, it seemed to touch Naruko a good deal.
Tsunade's eyes shift from Naruko, towards Jiraiya.
"So, this girl is like the Fourth huh, holding up the ideals of a death wish job like Hokage." Naruko went to speak, when Tsunade turned back towards her. "Being Hokage, is a death sentence, the Fourth, the First, and the Second, all died for the sake of the village at a young age, and the only reason Sarutobi-sensei lives is because of that boy there. Being Hokage, is a joke."
Her finger went towards Ryouta.
When hearing that, which wasn't common knowledge for the most part outside of the village, made him wonder more what Orochimaru had said to her.
But more than that, Ryouta, when she spoke, sensed a sad tone. Not as if she was trying to be harsh to the Hokage's, but because of the pain of her past, and what she believed about life and death, Ryouta could understand on some levels why she felt the way that she did.
Naruko on the other hand wasn't having any of it, and stands up on her chair, crushing her right fist into the left one, and her blue eyes went towards her fellow blonde.
"Don't insult our Hokage! Look lady, I don't know what your problem is, but being Hokage means the world to me! And to the village! Being able to protect the village, and to fight for the village! It is an honour! They see each other as family! I wont let you keep speaking bad about the Hokage!"
Referring to the job itself, Ryouta could definitely see the passion that she held within her.
Tsunade adopts a small smirk, and stands up with one of her legs positioned against the table before them both.
"Your words sound like a challenge. Do you want to fight me that badly?"
"Yeah! If that's what it takes to knock sense into you!"
Ryouta looked over Tsunade, and then towards Naruko.
"Eeh Naruko-chan, maybe you shouldn't challenge her to a fight."
"But she's insulting our Hokage!"
Ryouta could understand that argument, and could see that the power Tsunade has within her, he was sure that she would be able to win without much problem at this point.
"I know, but whether you agree with her point of view or not, she has her reasons for feeling that. Also, she holds the title of Sannin for a reason, and she's a candidate for Hokage so she has to be very strong to even be considered. She is a monster in terms of battle, you have to be cautious if you truly intend on fighting her."
Tsunade was surprised by such a tone.
Hearing that it wasn't trying to either discourage Naruko, nor downplay Tsunade either.
It was one that was giving facts, and also, understanding why Tsunade felt the way that she did, even if his views differed from her own, it was a quality that she did like.
But Naruko wouldn't have it with Tsunade, and jabbed a finger to the outside.
"Lets go then!"
Ryouta knew it wouldn't end well for Naruko, but he hoped at least this would be a good learning challenge for Naruko.
So they all walked outside, and stood a few feet apart. Ryouta, Shizune and Jiraiya looked at one another, before turning to see that Naruko had her eyes set on the potential Hokage that was before her.
"Is she strong?"
Shizune asks Ryouta, who nods.
"Naruko-chan is quite strong yeah. However, Tsunade-san is a Sannin, so it will be difficult for her. But Naruko-chan is the most determined girl that I've ever met, I'm sure that she wont settle for anything less than giving it her all."
Ryouta replied with his truth, as Jiraiya quietly listened, hearing that he was supporting Naruko, even if he knew that she didn't really stand much of a chance against someone like Tsunade at this moment in time.
"Alright then, lets go!"
Naruko rushes forward, and creates several clones, before they all jump Tsunade.
Tsunade uses her reflexes and strength to take each of them down. With punches and kicks, Ryouta could see that she wasn't really using chakra in her strikes, and yet the clones vanished from such a heavy impact that Ryouta felt like they'd be able to break bones.
Naruko didn't allow that to deter her, and threw shurikens from different clones that had surrounded Tsunade.
"Is this all?"
Tsunade dodges them elegantly. Like she was dancing. Even Shizune could see that despite the time that she hadn't really fought, she hadn't lost her touch, and she took down the clones, grabbing some of their weapons out of the air, and throwing them right back towards the Naruko clones.
The last one headed for Naruko herself, who could see that it was going to stab into her.
However, before the impact could come, she manages to dodge, but looks at Tsunade, seeing that she was very strong and agile, she wasn't sure what she was going to do, so she turned towards Ryouta.
"Eh...she's strong Ryou, what do I do? You fought the snake guy who's also a Sannin, didn't you? So got any advice?"
When Ryouta went to speak up and give some advice, Tsunade's face curled downwards.
"You've fought Orochimaru?"
"A few times yes."
Tsunade wore surprise on her face.
Remembering what Orochimaru said about trying to take over Yukine's son, and now hearing the boys name, knowing this was one and the same, she was very impressed to say the least.
"And you live to tell the tale? That's impressive."
"Thanks. Though Orochimaru is a monster, everything he does and says is all for his own benefit."
Tsunade tried her best to hide what she was feeling.
But Ryouta's perceptive Sharingan saw the slight muscle movements of her face, and other parts, seeing that something within her did recognize what he was saying and it only now made him all the more curious as to what she was thinking and doing.
Tsunade tried to ignore the curiousness of Ryouta's, and turned towards Naruko with bewilderment.
"You seem so upset about someone badmouthing the Hokage's position. Why? You aren't Hokage. Why should it matter?"
"Why should it matter? Because being Hokage is my dream! To be acknowledged by the village and protect it with my life! That's my dream, and I can't allow anyone to badmouth it!"
When she yelled that, both her deceased lover and brothers voices echoed within her mind.
She was reminded of their determination and strength at the same time.
How they wished to become Hokage, and how they'd probably say something similar to what Naruko had done.
Ryouta could see that she was distracted with her thoughts.
Naruko also notices, and sticks out her hand.
"Oh, so she's going to try it is she?"
Jiraiya was intrigued, while Ryouta could see the chakra flow with his eyes, and understood how the Jutsu was going to go. But nonetheless, Naruko did her best, and summoned as much chakra as she could, allowing it to rapidly spin within her hand and to come together as an orb that seemed to have trouble stabilizing.
As Naruko rushed her, Tsunade understood what was going on as she snapped out of her thoughts.
"The Rasengan….you've actually taught this girl such a powerful technique Jiraiya?"
Tsunade was amazed, as she took a single finger.
She then stabbed her finger into the ground, with the incredible strength that she had, and the pinpoint timing with her strength, she was able to create a large fissure in the road.
Splitting it right down the middle, Naruko let out a cry.
"Aaah!"
Naruko couldn't keep her footing and fell into the fissure with her right foot, forcing her to the ground, as did the incomplete Rasengan, which exploded in her face, and sent her flying back, with a small cut across her cheek.
Tsunade let out a sigh, as Ryouta went over to Naruko.
"Are you okay Naruko-chan?"
"Eeh...yeah, it didn't work though..."
"Don't worry, you'll get it soon enough."
Tsunade then saw something that surprised her, and that was Ryouta beginning to use the Medical Ninjutsu Izumi taught him, and by her very trained eyes, she could see that he had a very good control over it.
"He knows Medical Ninjutsu as well, he's not half bad at it, in fact he seems to be pretty good at Medical Ninjutsu."
Tsunade noted.
She then turned towards Jiraiya, and began reprimanding him.
"Giving this girl unwarranted hope by trying to have her learn the Rasengan? She wont be able to Master this Jutsu, it took the Fourth years to create it, and it also took you a good while to learn it as well. And that's with the experience that you have as well, it's dangerous, she could hurt herself with such a power."
In her own way, it sounded like Tsunade did care about Naruko, which Ryouta felt like this was the Tsunade that Karin had talked about. She didn't express her feelings outright, but she did show them in different ways.
Naruko on the other hand continued to scowl as Ryouta finished off healing her wound.
"I'll prove you wrong! Give me three days, and I'll have this Rasengan mastered! You'll see! Then take back the stuff you said about the Hokage!"
Tsunade lifted a single brow, before giving a challenging look right back.
"How about a week instead?" Tsunade looked down at her necklace, then towards Naruko. "As an added bonus, I'll even throw in this priceless necklace. And if you fail, then I get all of the money that's in your purse. And if you win, then I'll give you this, along with taking back what I said."
Jiraiya was surprised that Tsunade would even bet her necklace, knowing how precious it was, and what Tsunade felt like when in regards to her necklace, and what it represented within the woman's mind.
Ryouta looked between them, and murmured, "Geez, that's two Sannin that have wanted Naruko-chan's money now." Shizune heard what he said, and stifled a small laugh, before going back to having a serious face.
"Fine, if that's how it is! I'm going right now! I'll show you!"
Jiraiya watches Naruko rush off, Ryouta quickly creates a clone and has it follow her to make sure that she'd be fine.
Once she had vanished, Ryouta turned back towards Tsunade.
"Tsunade-san, I'm glad it was settled quickly, and Naruko-chan's passion, if it caused some hard feelings to stir up, I am sorry. I'm sure she didn't intend to make you feel sad."
Tsunade placed a hand on her hip.
"It's fine, though her Hokage speech...you don't share her feelings?"
"I do actually, I do believe what she said is right about the Hokage that it is a job that represents the love and care for the village, though I also understand that others have different views based on their life experiences."
Tsunade thought that was a rather mature way of speaking.
Understanding about the situation, having his own opinion on the matter while respecting her own thoughts on the matter as well.
"By the way...Orochimaru, did he...no, never mind."
Ryouta raised a brow.
"Did he...what?"
Tsunade shook his head.
"So, are you strong boy? Perhaps we have a bet between us?"
Ryouta lightly laughed.
"Thank you, if there's anything I can think of I'll let you know. Besides that, it's quite an honour to meet you again like this, I quite look up to you."
Tsunade wore surprise.
"Why's that?"
"Because as you're the top Medical Ninja...I'd love to pick your brain about all sorts of different medical stuff you've done~ I know some stuff from the studies I've had over the years, but hearing your stories would be amazing. Also, I'd love to have your autograph for Izumi-chan, she'd love it."
Tsunade developed a slight smile.
"Well, I might have sometime before I leave so we could talk, and I could be persuaded to give my autograph."
Ryouta clapped his hands a single time.
"Thank you~"
Tsunade gave bemused looks to the young man, as Jiraiya pulled closer, and came to Tsunade's right hand side.
"Hey Tsunade, how about a drink?"
Tsunade gave suspicious eyes.
"...What are you up too?"
"Nothing, nothing. A catch up between friends." Jiraiya turned to Ryouta. "Hey Uchiha kid, take care of Tsunade's apprentice here for a little while."
Seeing Jiraiya's eyes looking rather serious, Ryouta inclines his neck.
"...Right, I understand."
Ryouta got what Jiraiya was trying to say, and watched as the pair walked off from Ryouta and Shizune.
As that was going on, Kabuto and Orochimaru were together, and a snake of Orochimaru's had picked up on a chakra that Orochimaru didn't want to have to deal with, and usually, he wouldn't show much worry.
But right now...Orochimaru did in fact feel some worry.
"The Uchiha brats here too!?"
The ghostly Yukine let out a giggle.
"Are you afraid of my son? Because that's so amazing. You chased and attacked my son, now you're afraid of him~ Haha~"
Orochimaru inhaled and exhaled deeply while Kabuto bit his lower lip.
"Him, and Jiraiya as well Orochimaru-sama, can we afford to deal with both of them? In your current condition, maybe it would be best to abandon this mission for now, and resume it if Tsunade doesn't keep going with them..."
Orochimaru's wild, piercing eyes shot for him.
"You want me to quit now you little..." Yukine raised a brow, Orochimaru clenched his teeth together, and spoke through gritting teeth. "...Kabuto, I wont abandon this now, I don't care if the Uchiha brat is here, or Jiraiya. I wont be beaten by either of them."
Kabuto could see the seriousness within Orochimaru.
More than that, the determination of his was something that Kabuto admired about his Master.
"But you yourself said that if the boy releases the full power of his eyes, then in your current condition, he'd be able to finish you off..."
Yukine nods, agreeing with Kabuto and elaborated more on her thoughts.
"I agree, a part of you does fear him, doesn't it? The unknown of his eye power, and what he could do with his full powers. I know my son from our brief time together, he will do everything in his power so you don't get your grubby little hands on his, or any Sharingan, or anyone else you could hurt. So be prepared to forfeit your life Orochimaru. As right now, in your condition, and Ryou using the full power of his eyes...I wonder who'd come out on top? Especially considering that Jiraiya and Tsunade are with him."
As she spoke, Orochimaru's face twisted and contorted. The surging pain through his arms, and his soul being bombarded by Yukine's words, he shot his eyes towards her.
"I wont die to a child! Especially one who's body I am going to overtake! Wait for it girl, your son shall become apart of me! And we shall destroy all opposition! My knowledge and his power, the world will bow down before us! I have ideas!"
Orochimaru's rage couldn't be quelled.
Yukine yawned as if she wasn't interested, only igniting anger in Orochimaru.
"Then, then what do we do Orochimaru-sama?"
Kabuto gave brief pause as Orochimaru sat down in place, then he adopted a smirk.
"I've got a few ideas, there's some people that owe me a favour. Though I have one try at this...perhaps if...haha, yes, Kabuto!"
"Yes Orochimaru-sama?"
"We've got to be prepared, time to make some moves…! Tsunade might be convinced by them...so we have to reach out to some old friends. I wont let this chance go...he isn't with the village...my arms will be healed...and those eyes are going to be mine..."
Kabuto didn't know what he was speaking about.
But it was clear that Orochimaru had some kind of ideas up his sleeve.
Whatever it was, he was going to do his best for his Master.
Yukine on the other hand simply watched on, knowing Orochimaru's next moves, and felt angered by them. She hoped that her son would be capable of stopping him if he should try such devilish moves against him.
A small time later, Ryouta and Shizune sat on some grassy hill, overlooking Naruko's training. Seeing how hard she was going, Ryouta was pleased. But Shizune seemed to be keeping rather quiet, so he turned towards her, to ask her about it.
"Is everything okay?"
Ryouta asks, with Shizune nodding.
"Yes, I'm just worried about Tsunade-sama, she's been through a lot recently, and I know that she seems..."
"I can understand why she feels the way that she does, the world can be cruel, and it doesn't care about who you feel. Though you know, Naruko-chan's going to try really hard, Tsunade-san might end up losing the bet~"
Shizune suppressed a giggle that was within her.
"Tsunade-sama and Naruko-san truly do have something's in common. Neither will back down from a challenge. Though when she betted her necklace, I was honestly surprised."
"Yeah...it means a lot I presume?"
"It does..." Shizune began, recounting a tale to Ryouta about the history of the necklace. "Her younger brother, had dreams like Naruko-san, to become Hokage. She gave him the necklace in the hopes it would help him achieve that dream. However...the very next day, he became a casualty of the Second Shinobi World War. The necklace was returned to her after what happened."
Ryouta exhaled slowly, hearing that he could understand more about Tsunade and what she was feeling, sharing the fact they both had lost a brother before.
"I see..."
"But, that wasn't the only time she'd give it away."
"The other person...was a family member perhaps?"
"No...not hers, mine." Ryouta was surprised by the revelation. "It was my Uncle, Dan. Tsunade-sama, after seeing the deaths of the war, wanted to change the system. To have Medical Ninja's be added to each squads, to prevent more deaths. She figured that if they were there, then they could make sure the team survived."
"Yes...that does make sense. And your Uncle Dan..."
"She caught his attention. He, at the time, was also wanting to become Hokage. He wished to save as many lives as possible. They spent time together, and eventually, they began dating. She trusted in him, and his dreams enough to give it another chance. To place her trust in him, and to support his goal, so she gave the necklace to him."
Ryouta could see that Shizune was beginning to become sad, so Ryouta placed his hand out.
"You don't have to tell me anymore if it is a hard thing for you to live through again."
"That's kind of you, but really, I'm fine."
"...If you're sure."
Shizune nods, and continues.
"Yes...he received the necklace, and because of that, she thought finally, she was able to see her dreams be fulfilled, and be with someone that she loves. But on a mission together, they were attacked, and my Uncle became critically hurt. She did her best to save him...but, she couldn't in the end. He died, and as a result, she developed a fear of blood."
"...Living in a blood stained world, I can understand why after losing so many people, she would develop such a fear."
Shizune inclines her neck.
"That's why she said what she did about the Hokage position. She's lost faith in dreams, in the Hokage...everything about Konoha reminded her of her lost loved ones. And the necklace became regarded to many as cursed, something that if worn, then you'd be the subject of death. The only one who hasn't, is Tsunade-sama herself."
Ryouta became quite understanding about such a past.
"I think you should tell Naruko-chan this, she would definitely become inspired."
"Do you honestly think that she'll be capable of mastering the Rasengan?"
Ryouta chuckles, and immediately nods.
"Yes, I do think that she'll be capable of doing it. I'm sure by the end of the week, she'll come up with her own way of making the Jutsu all her own."
Shizune could hear the praise, and unyielding faith he had within Naruko's determination.
"It seems that you and Naruko-san have quite the close relationship with one another."
"We've known one another since we were young, and also, I'm...protective over her. Many people treat her horribly within the village, and I can't stand it, especially knowing the reason why they do, so whenever she wants to do something, I try my best to support her and make sure she can do her best in what it is that she wishes to do, or give her advice when she wants it."
"When she wants it?"
Ryouta nods.
"Naruko-chan's the type to try things her own way, I want to encourage that, and make her the best Ninja that she could possibly be. If she wants my advice, then I make sure it is readily available."
"I see, to help a friend by nudging them in the right direction. That's a good way to go about it."
Ryouta smiled.
"By the way, Karin-san gave me a few messages for you and Tsunade-san."
Shizune's eyes widened at the name.
"Karin-san...what did she gave to say."
Ryouta nods, and begins explaining.
As he did, Shizune adopts a small smile.
"That girl, she always was quite odd, but she is a good person, and she had quite the attitude to achieve what she wished for in life. And her relationship with Tsunade-sama, it is something that even I have difficulty understanding."
Ryouta was glad that in her own way, Karin had formed a very strong bond with Tsunade. Even if Tsunade was still on the fence about many things, Karin was someone that was capable of getting through to Tsunade and making her push her pain down to help her out.
"Karin-san told me about the time that Tsunade-san saved her, and helped her come to Konoha. Even though it brought her memories of deep sadness and pain, she still came to the village, to help Karin-san, someone she didn't really know at that point. Even making it a point to keep in regular contact with one another."
"Yes...Tsunade-sama does have a soft spot for her. But even that..."
Shizune trailed off, and Ryouta saw that she fell into a silence.
One that showed how much turmoil Shizune herself as going through.
Ryouta wished to help her, and Tsunade out, so he began speaking to what he thought and knew to be true.
"Orochimaru...he contacted her, didn't he?"
Shizune wore surprise on her face.
"How did you..."
Ryouta gained an understanding face.
"I saw his chakra around, with my Sharingan, I don't know what happened, and can only guess, but I'd have to assume it would have to do with his arms. Tsunade-san is the strongest and most skilled Medical Ninja in the world, if anyone, then it would be her that could fix or even lessen the damage on his arms."
Shizune lowered her head.
"I take it that Jiraiya-sama would also be aware?"
Ryouta nods his head a single time.
"He is aware. Hearing your story about her family...and her loved ones...I can have a guess on what he's offered her in return. Though, even if he does honour it...they don't come back as they should do...rather, under his control, he'd probably turn them onto Tsunade-san. He enjoys seeing the suffering of those around him, playing with Hokage-sama's heart with bringing back his Sensei's, and also taunting me as well with my Mother."
Shizune clenches her hands.
She understood what he was saying, and he immensely agreed with what was to be said as well.
"I can't trust Orochimaru either, he's too sinister and evil. I agree, if he did bring back my Uncle, and her brother... But how did you guess that was what was offered?"
"Because, he offered the same to me. He is a sadist, and I don't use this word easily, but he's evil. As long as he gets what he wants...no one's lives matter to him."
Shizune fully agreed.
With the actions she had seen, and understood herself, she believed he was as he had said it was.
"Orochimaru has also caused you a lot of problems, for which I'm sorry for. He mentioned about Yukine-sama..."
"You don't have to be sorry, Orochimaru's actions aren't the result of anything other than his own. He brought back my Mom, and we turned her on him, so this is all his own doing."
Shizune wholeheartedly agreed.
"So that's how his arms...even in death she protected Konoha." Ryouta nods, as she and he turn their heads to the night sky. "...To be honest, I don't know what Tsunade-sama is going to do...I am worried about what Orochimaru might do, either way she answers. If she refuses, then he'd use force, he even threatened to kill her at different points, either saying it aloud, or making very threatening gestures."
"Bastard..." Thinking on Tsunade some more, Ryouta turned towards Shizune. "Shizune-san, do you mind if I speak to Tsunade-san? I understand Orochimaru quite well, and I also have something's to say to her, from Karin-san, and from myself as well."
Shizune didn't have a problem with it.
"I would be happy for someone else to try and speak with her. So maybe your words could? I think that would be the best thing to do."
"Yes...but also, seeing her, and hearing from Karin-san...I can't see Orochimaru's words truly making her do it, it is tempting to have your loved ones back, I know quite well...but, the Tsunade-san I've heard about, and what I've seen...I don't think she'd side with him."
She also agreed, even with such a tempting offer, she knew Orochimaru couldn't win over Tsunade.
But, that only made her worry on what Orochimaru would do, since she knew he'd not allow her to go so easily.
After that, Ryouta separated, allowing Shizune some time along with Naruko to speak about Tsunade, something he was sure would ignite even more passion within her. Ryouta himself went to go and find Tsunade to deliver the messages from Karin, and also to speak to her about Orochimaru.
However, while on his way, Ryouta noiticed a small snake on the ground.
A white one that was drawing his attention on purpose.
He went to move away, when he saw the snake seemingly leave a note on the ground.
Ryouta looked on, read it, and showed that it was threatening Naruko, so he made some clones, sending them to her.
He also was prepared to face down Orochimaru until the others arrived, so he walked with the snake.
When he got to an outskirts of the town area, Ryouta saw Orochimaru...rather, he saw a clone of Orochimaru.
"You aren't capable of making hand signs...so, I have to conclude that it is Kabuto's doing, right?"
"Perceptive as always my Uchiha-kun."
Ryouta rolled his eyes.
Whenever he was called that by Orochimaru, it always made him feel sickly, as if Orochimaru was trying to claim that Ryouta was going to be on his side, and be his next vessel without any choice in the matter.
"Never going to be taken over by you, so you might as well spout out your crap, then either come and fight me, or wait until I find you. Either way is fine with me."
Ryouta's words dripped venom.
He wanted Orochimaru to understand that this time, he wouldn't get his way.
He couldn't get what he desired.
Orochimaru snickered at the young man.
"My, you have such a strength, you're growing more and more."
"And you're weakening, more and more, aren't you?"
Ryouta retorted with a sharp look in his eyes.
Orochimaru took his time to answer, keeping the anger he felt at bay for the time being, along with the passive feelings of Yukine within his soul. Even a clone, it was difficult getting away with what was happening inside.
"Perception doesn't equal you're going to win boy. That's why, come with me."
Ryouta sighed, shaking his head in disappointment for the Sannin.
"We've been through this before Orochimaru. I'd never go with you, you don't have anything I want or need, you are literally a monster who used my Mother against me you bastard."
Orochimaru felt his body shaking with anger.
"Don't push me boy..."
"Push you? I intend to kill you Orochimaru."
Orochimaru took sharp breaths through his nose.
But, he wanted to keep it together.
He wanted to try his best here, before he would have to resort to different options, some that he wasn't entirely sure would succeed.
"...I do have the backup in Satsuki-chan, she is also untapped potential. If you keep refusing me, I'll go for her, then I'll put my Curse Mark on her, and she'll come to me. Your death, should spice things up. After her boyfriend is dead, maybe I'll kill her Mother to throw in the sweet deal as well. She'll awaken her Mangekyou with either of your deaths! I'll take your eyes, and make sure your powers put to good use if you don't come with me now!"
Ryouta knew what he was trying to do.
He was trying to make Ryouta angry enough to make a mistake.
To fall for a trap.
But he wouldn't.
He kept his guard up.
"Give it up, you wont get to her while there's breath in my body."
Orochimaru snickered as a response.
"You don't have to hold breath in you for me to see you as useful. That's why, this is your only chance. Come with me, and I wont go after your loved ones anymore."
Ryouta this time scowled.
"You want me for my power, to body snatch me and use my eyes for your own selfish desires. To cause, untold damage to the world, there's no way in hell I'd like you ever achieve your goals. Even if you somehow successfully do best me and try to take over me, I'll destroy my eyes so no one ever has the power. Least of all you."
Orochimaru quaked with anger.
"Power, I can grant you that. You and I don't have to be enemies, we can be friends. We can be allies in the fight against this world. It's wronged you, I can make it so it is punished."
"You're one of the causes of pain for me, so why would I ever agree to anything you want?"
"If you came with me, I could grant you that power as well to kill those that took your precious brother away!"
Ryouta could hear the words, but he couldn't believe Orochimaru only had such things planned. He wanted more than simply gaining knowledge, he'd do anything he'd want if he did have power, he wouldn't allow that.
"You don't care about others, all you care about is your selfish desires for what you want. That's why, I'm going to make sure you're buried Orochimaru. Your body snatching days are over, the Sharingan wont ever be yours. These eyes you crave so much, shall be the last sight you'll ever see in this world."
Orochimaru's face became rather anger filled.
More than anger, it was dipping more and more into rage.
But also, a hint of fear held within his eyes, because he knew in his weakened condition, Ryouta could kill him if he released the full power of his Mangekyou.
"You don't know what you're dealing with boy."
"No, I know exactly what I'm dealing with. It's you who doesn't know what you're dealing with. I might not be a Sannin, but I wont quit until you're gone from this world. For everything you've done, for every evil action you've taken, you're finished."
The conviction in his voice.
The strength of his heart.
Orochimaru's attempt didn't pay off.
So he would have to resort to even more drastic, and evil measures.
"I see, such conviction and strength, I simply believe this is the best. Ryou-kun, I wont give up on you, the power of your eyes shall be mine. Trust me boy...you will regret rejecting me, I'll make those you love suffer. I'll take everything from you, then all you'll have is me hahahaha..."
With that, Orochimaru's clone vanished into a pile of snakes.
Ryouta stays silent, and keeps his eyes on the area Orochimaru was.
But then he activated his Sharingan, and glared at the snakes that disappeared in the wind as if they weren't there in the first place.
"No Orochimaru...you'll regret doing this to me. That I promise."
Ryouta exhales through his nose.
Knowing Orochimaru wouldn't quit, he wanted to do his best to stop the snake like human.
Orochimaru never would stop, neither would Ryouta.
Not until he fulfilled what his Mother, and others wished for, and that was for Orochimaru to be gone from the world.
End chapter!
So this chapter delved more into Orochimaru and Tsunade, with the former seemingly showing that he's nervous about the confrontation with his former comrades, and because of his Mangekyou, Ryouta as well. Tsunade and Naruko had their little altercation, and managed to have a bet made. Shizune and Ryouta also spoke about Tsunade, with him learning more and more about her, understanding her feelings and her resolve, but also understanding what else she was feeling. Ryouta then decided that he'd speak to Tsunade, understanding the kind of man Orochimaru really is, and also can understand losing those before their time, so we'll see what's going on with that next time. Orochimaru also tried to force Ryouta to come with him, but he stood his ground and is ready to fight against Orochimaru no matter what.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Gaara (fem), Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei, Anko, Samui, Hanabi, Mabui, Temari, Pakura,