Welcome to the next chapter!
Benny Farr; It seems that he did yeah.
joharasbel; It seems that he has done yeah. Ryouta managed to finish off Orochimaru in the end!
SaltOLLIEVER; Thank you very much, I always try my best, so I am glad you really liked it!
ShadowUzumaki55; Thanks very much! He is yeah, I have plans for the Sound going forward. Yukine and Orochimaru managed to have one final talk before his death, and yeah, Yukine cared for Orochimaru in the past, hating what he had become. Glad you liked seeing the powers together!
Silver crow; Yeah, he surely won. We shall see what happens with his followers. Can't say if he will or not, spoilers. He will have time off. Tsunade was yeah. Yeah, Ryouta showed some cool Jutsu during the fight. Orochimaru pulled out all of the stops. Ryouta has his own views on peace, that will come up as time goes on. Danzo will be doing stuff, what stuff we shall see. He will have his team by Shippuden. He will have a home fitting for him. Ryouta is a mixture of his Mother and Father, he resembles Shisui a bit, but different in ways. Yeah, its an interesting idea. They'd be cool relationships. Maybe he could be their Sensei.
Freddy8712; He will be getting it in Shippuden, and no problem~
Skull Flame; Orochimaru has been yeah, how his followers react we shall see quite soon.
Guest 1; Yeah, thought about it before, he would have blue flames. Koneko would be quite important. Sona could be, thanks for the suggestions.
Guest 2; Yeah, that would be an interesting story to do. He could have a relationship like that. That would be cool if he could do that. Silver eyes would be cool. They would be interesting powers. They would be a cool pairing, thanks for the suggestions.
Morregen; Yeah, its finally over haha. Orochimaru is gone. Yeah, originally Yukine wasn't from the village, and many didn't want to associate with her due to that reason. She could be, would be rather interesting huh. Danzo is always up to something, so we shall see what he does in the future. Glad you enjoyed it.
TheGreatGodzilla; He is gone. As said in the previous Authors Notes, yes I have thought about what I would do with those elements of the story, if they would appear, or if they wouldn't, things like that. Tayuya, and the others fates shall be revealed in the chapters going forward. Yeah, its a good video. Maybe we shall see. He will meet them in Shippuden. I have plans for Kabuto going forward. For the time being Yukine is gone. Yeah, this is a relaxing chapter pushing some narratives forward.
Phantom Reader; Yeah, it was quite intense~ Tsunade could do yeah, she sees potential. Yeah, I could see them being interesting Medical Ninja. Orochimaru did have a cool final form yeah, I thought it would be best to include it here. Yeah, he used Susanoo for some extra hands there~ Nesaku is pretty strong for sure. Amaterasu and Nesaku might combine in the future~ Deidara would be proud lol. Yukine and Orochimaru came to some sort of resolution for sure. The Curse Marks definitely will be brought up again at some point. Orochimaru is dead yeah. I do have some plans for Mitsuki and Shin yeah. Yeah, its gonna be a relaxing time after everything that has gone on, with pushing some plots forward. Naruko will leave yeah. I could see Ryouta saying that to Jiraiya. We will see the Akatsuki discussing it a bit here, and more in the future. That would be funny if Koji did have that kind of fear. They will get it before the last arc of shippuden, is all I can say without spoilers.
qunbulah; Thanks. I haven't seen much of that series yet to say yes or no. But so far, I am enjoying it so it is possible.
Hinata fan; Yeah, he does. He will get the credit due. He did in the main series, we shall see if he does here or not.
Guest 3; Thanks very much!
With those reviews out of the way, its time to start the chapter!
Orochimaru aftermath!
A day or so after the events of the fight with Orochimaru, they had returned to Konoha. Ryouta, and those that had been wounded or exhausted during the fighting had gone to the hospital. Mikoto was also in to make sure that she was stable, after being with Orochimaru for so long, there was no telling what he could have done to her.
Ryouta opened his eyes as the morning sun shone through the window, and bathed him in light.
He looked to the ceiling of the room, and his visible blurred before going back to normal, which happened infrequently, he could tell it was due to using the Mangekyou Sharingan, he had become a little more blind as a result.
"Okay...my eyes have gotten worse...but, I can still use the Sharingan...it was worth it, to end Orochimaru from his disgusting ways...now that he's gone, all I have to worry about is that damn Tobi...and Sugaru, getting Izumi-chan back among other things...yeah, I have to keep going..."
Ryouta was determined, more determined than ever, since he had finally gained a victory over someone that had haunted him for a good long time now.
There was an opening of the door, Ryouta glanced, and saw that Satsuki came through with her head turning towards Ryouta.
"You're up." Satsuki comes over, gets onto the bed, sitting opposite of him, and places the food she had between them. "How are you feeling? Any change?"
"I feel okay, but it seems Tsunade-san wants me to stay in to make sure everything is fine."
"Makes sense. Though, I have to be a bearer of bad news."
Ryouta blinked.
"What news? Did something happen?"
"During the last fight we had, it seems that unknown Ninja came in, and took Kabuto, and Guren away. They didn't get that flute girl, she's currently being interrogated for what happened, and to see if she has any information, though most doubt it by how she was left behind. People are out searching for them, but for now, it seems that they have vanished."
Ryouta did feel disheartened about that, since Kabuto and Guren could still be dangerous. Right now not as dangerous as the likes of Orochimaru, but they could pose a problem in the future as well.
"I see...so Kabuto and Guren are still out there..."
"Without their leader, they wont be much of a problem for the moment. However, it could become the case where they do cause problems for the future. Though we will be ready for when they make a return."
Ryouta inclined his neck, agreeing wholeheartedly with what Satsuki was saying.
"Yes, even with Orochimaru dead, Kabuto is unfortunately a smart medic, and Guren is plenty strong, now that they have another reason to gain power, I wouldn't be shocked if they would become problems we will have to deal with later on down the line. But before that, how is everyone else?"
Displaying some concern, it was dispelled as Satsuki showed a small smile.
"Everyone is fine, who went on the mission, both I guess. And my Mom is recovering very well, she said she wishes to see you when you feel up to it. She wants to have a few words with you. She seemed happy, so I can guess they are good."
"Okay, I'll speak with Mikoto-san soon. First...Satsuki-chan, I have been thinking about growing stronger, you know..." Ryouta glanced out of the window, adopting a small sad smile."...because my vision has become a little worse. It isn't to the point I am blind or anything, but I can tell my vision has gone worse a bit..."
Satsuki leaned closer, and got to his right hand side, placing a hand over his own.
"I wont let you go blind Ryou, I'll become stronger to fight right beside you."
Her words, very touching.
He could hear the intense passion that she had, that she would become incredibly strong for the future.
"I know...we both have to become stronger."
Satsuki placed a hand on his face, and gently rubbed said face, giving a soft and kind smile.
"We will, together Ryou."
Ryouta took her hand that was on his face, and entwined their fingers.
"Yeah, lets do it together…so, I've been thinking about a Sensei...and I have an idea, if you want to come with me once we get out of here?"
"A Sensei, for us?"
"Yes, I think he'd be rather perfect. But first, can we like, lie down together? I still feel a bit tired from everything, more mentally exhausted than physically haha."
She adopts a small kind smile on her face.
"Right, lie down. After what Orochimaru did, we deserve sometime to relax."
Ryouta leaned back, as Satsuki came in closer, and gently kissed him, before laying down next to him, curling up in his arms, and relaxed after everything that had happened...
Izumi was surprised when a meeting of the Akatsuki had been called. Even Itachi didn't seem to know why this was either. Kisame didn't say anything about it, Izumi assumed that there had been some developments, possibly with what was going on with their mission currently.
She could see the different members of the Akatsuki around, her eyes drew towards one hunched over, another that had cold eyes, and some more members.
She even saw Konan, and of course Sugaru, someone that she didn't ever want to see, after all these years she still hated what happened with Shisui and how he had a hand in it.
Of course, because they had used a Jutsu to project their spirit to a different area, the image was vague, but she knew them all by now, even if she really didn't want to know about them.
The leader of the Akatsuki, a man named Pain, stood before them all, and had his ripple like eyes focused on all of them at different points. No one spoke, waiting for the explanation of what was happening right now.
Soon, Pain finally did speak, but what he said, began surprising those around.
"I have called this meeting, to explain about the status of one of our enemies. Orochimaru, is dead."
Some gasps rang into the room, particularly a man named Sasori looked astonished.
"Someone killed Orochimaru? Who was it?"
Pain waved his hand and an image of Ryouta appeared before them all. Izumi widened her eyes, wishing she could speak to Itachi about this, but for the moment decided not to say anything, Sugaru himself looked on with concern.
Itachi didn't voice his thoughts, but when seeing that image, and there would be no reason for Pain to lie about it, he could especially see Tobi calling the shots for this, and wishing to have this known to the Akatsuki, possibly in an attempt to try and get Ryouta, or kill him, Itachi honestly wasn't so sure what Tobi wished for at this time.
"Ryouta Uchiha, reports say Orochimaru confronted this boy, and he came out as the victor. Orochimaru's death has been confirmed by Zetsu."
When hearing that, the other Akatsuki talked amongst themselves.
Pain didn't utter another word after that, and stayed silent, Izumi herself looked to Konan who didn't say anything either, but it was clear on her face that this was a surprise, showing that even she didn't know that this was going to be happening.
"Hot damn, the kid killed the snake bastard? Sasori my man, you must be angry right now? You wanted to end him, right?"
Deidara quietly said but Sasori didn't have any words, he kept his eyes on the image of Ryouta before him.
"This kid actually killed Orochimaru? He is going to have a huge bounty, I am thrilled."
Kakuzu admitted, as Kisame showed a large grin.
"Yes, that's my Uchiha rival!"
Itachi glanced at Kisame, as Izumi used this moment to look at Sugaru.
He didn't say anything, it seemed that even though this was something that did shock him, he wouldn't be ruled by any emotion at that point in time.
Pain concluded the meeting a little time over, with him discussing various things about the situation, among other things.
When they went back to their real world forms, Kisame stretched his arms, as Izumi turned to Itachi.
"I can't believe it."
"Believe it best friend." Kisame said with an enthusiastic smile. "I am really happy right now, my Uchiha did it. Looks like my dreams of fighting a great swordsman is growing even more. If he took out Orochimaru, then it means he is growing in more power, than ever before!"
"Indeed, to think he took care of Orochimaru, I'm impressed."
Izumi downplayed as much as possible, she couldn't share what she was currently thinking since Kisame was stood there. Itachi was the master of staying stoic, and not saying anything, in fact he mastered it so much that he didn't even show a hint of what he was thinking on his face.
"I as well am impressed. I thought that he would have good potential, it is showing clear to me now. Look at this Itachi, you have another Uchiha killing someone strong, like you did with the Uchiha clan. Aren't you going to show happiness? Say, he could become apart of the Akatsuki, and then best friend, my rival Uchiha, and I, could become a three man team. You can go with that creepy Sugaru guy if you want?"
Itachi glanced at the smirking Kisame.
He didn't know if he was joking or not, Itachi didn't take him on at this moment in time.
He kept it very close to the chest, more so than usual, as he had many emotions regarding Ryouta, and his ability now. He also wondered about his eyes, and the state they'd currently be in.
When seeing that he wouldn't be answering, Kisame tapped his foot on the ground.
"Geez Itachi, you're being more quiet than usual. What's wrong? You can't say you care for the boy, can you? Or, are you worried that he did something to Orochimaru, who was a Sannin, and then he could come for you?"
"If he comes for me, it is of no consequence, I cannot change anyone's thoughts and what they might try to do to me. I am thinking about how the fight came to be, I haven't heard anything about Konoha being attacked again."
"Same here, I haven't heard anything about it. Best friend, have you?"
Izumi shook her head.
"Nope, not a peep. It does make me curious, but I suppose that in time it will come out. This can't be kept a secret for long, the world is going to know that Ryouta took out the snake Sannin. People might even become afraid of him now because of that. Orochimaru was known throughout the world, he nearly killed the Third Hokage, and he was responsible for a lot of peoples deaths. Everyone knows who he is, or at least has heard of him."
Kisame rubbed his chin.
"You make a good point. I wonder if anything will come of this?" Kisame cracked his neck side to side. "Well, people can get lost, I've already made my claim on him as my rival now. He has a good swordsmanship, I wish to see how that is going to play out in the future. Aaah, I can't wait for our climatic battle now. Itachi, are we going or what? I am excited now, I wish to do some fighting."
"We have to attain supplies before we leave, Kisame."
Kisame laughed.
"Right, I'll go and get them, I'm sure this news is shocking to you Uchiha, I've got some business to take care of in the nearby town anyway, be back in an hour. Best friend, want anything?"
"Erm...could you get me a pork pun please? I'm starving. Actually, make it two, here's the money."
She went to pull out some money, when he stopped her with a wave of his hand.
"Put the money away best friend, I'll get them for you."
Izumi thanked him, knowing he wouldn't take no for an answer, watching as he walked off, leaving the pair of Uchiha behind.
When he left, Izumi immediately turned to Itachi.
"What in the hell…? How did they know before we did? What about how we gather intel?"
"That is a great question, I wasn't notified at all. I suspect that Tobi has something to do with it. He usually does become involved. Especially when it comes to Ryou."
"Orochimaru...I wish I knew the circumstances of how their fight came about. I can take a few guesses...but, he's gone, Itachi-kun. Orochimaru is dead...and Ryou-kun killed him."
The relief in her voice, made Itachi acutely aware of how happy she truly was, even he had to admit that with Orochimaru gone they could have an easier sleep at night. Orochimaru, Itachi was confident that he could take in a fight, he had done so before, but the fact that he always was slippery and managed to get away so many times, now that he had been caught, and killed, it was something even Itachi had to admit that it was a great time.
"Indeed, Orochimaru got greedy, wishing for the thing that he had gone after for much of his life, is the thing that ended him in the end, rather poetic if you ask me. Attacking a younger Uchiha, believing that he wouldn't be capable of mounting a defence, much less overpowering him, but got surprised when this young Uchiha turned the tables on him. Ryou has grown incredibly strong, I wish we could have seen the fight, I am sure you would have liked to have seen it, Izumi."
Izumi nods, pulling closer.
"Of course, I definitely want to know and would loved to have seen it. But now that Orochimaru is gone...thanks Ryou-kun, we have one less thing to worry about. But, I'm worried...what did he have to go through to take him down? What did Orochimaru do to make these circumstances come about? Itachi-kun, we can find out, right?"
"Yes, I intend to find out as quickly as possible. But you are right, we don't have to worry about Orochimaru coming for Satsuki and Ryou anymore. Still, I would like to know if he had placed a Curse Mark on either of them, or if he has done anything to them. So I'll be making my ways through the different networks to see if I can get some information about this."
"Too bad we can't just like stroll up to Konoha, and wave to them and all."
Itachi showed a small rare little smile on his face.
"If only." As he spoke, Izumi continued to smile while seemingly deep in thought. "Something else on your mind? You've been distracted for a little while."
"Not really...ooh, I wish I could give Ryou-kun a big cuddle right now...going through so much in his young life...damn Orochimaru, I hope he rots wherever he went for what he tried to do to my boys. Seriously, I am glad that he is gone now, for every little thing that he has done."
"We can take solace in the fact that he got what he deserved."
Izumi found that at least a little comforting, and nods her head, as Itachi continues getting ready, casting his mind to his sister, Mother, and to Ryouta himself…
A small time later, back in Konoha, Ryouta was relaxing in bed, with Satsuki having gone to do a duty for her Mother, when the door opened, and revealed Haku coming inside. He looked towards her, seeing that she held a somewhat disheartened look on her face.
"Haku-chan, what's going on?"
"Ryou-kun, I'm just...thinking about something. Sorry, am I disturbing you?"
Ryouta shook his head, patting the side of his bed.
"Not at all, come and sit down."
Haku did just that, and walked over towards Ryouta, getting towards his left hand side.
"Ryou-kun, during your fight with Orochimaru, I also fought against Kimimaro...I saw something inside of him...it was my own future. A potential future I mean. If I hadn't met you, and been able to have a good life together with you."
Ryouta quietly listened to what she said, and could see that she was thinking as well.
"Haku-chan, what happened to Kimimaro...it was very unfortunate...it is very disheartening...Orochimaru truly was a horrible person, what he had done to so many lives."
"Yes...its why, as I fought him and saw what my own future could be, I wish to make sure that others don't end up like that...people that have special circumstances, I want to be able to help them, it has only made me all the more determined."
He could hear that very same determination in her voice, that was telling him that she had a renewed sense of vigour, that she was going to continue striving for a better future, and one where she would be able to help people that needed the help.
"Yes, I'm sure that it has Haku-chan and I'm glad."
"Yes... But in meeting and fighting him, I understood something fundamental, and that is that there are still people out there like Orochimaru, who will take advantage of people like Kimimaro-san. So, I wish to become even stronger, I wish to be able to master my powers, and to strive for a new future...one where people like Kimimaro-san, like myself, don't have to always be on the run, have to be afraid, and get to live peaceful lives."
"It would be amazing if that could happen Haku-chan. There are many orphans in this world, like we are, that need good homes. I remember you telling me your dream about helping those people, that can still be a reality Haku-chan. We can give many people good homes."
"Yes...you're right, I wish to give people a good start in life, and give them good homes, to arrange for them nice homes that people would be able to raise them, or failing that I would also take care of them as well." Haku began to smile, and gently kissed Ryouta, before hugging him tightly. "I am glad Orochimaru didn't get you..."
"Me too."
He lightly joked, Haku giggled slightly, before peering into his eyes, continuing to hug him.
"Ryou-kun, I also have one more thing to request."
"A request? What is it?"
Haku leaned closer, and placed her head on his shoulder, snuggling against him.
"Can you always stay as you are? Kind, caring and sweet like this to me?"
"Yes, of course Haku-chan. I would always do that."
Haku was happy to hear that, and decided to spend time with Ryouta like this, for the first time in a good long time.
As that was going on, Tsunade was back in her office, after having had several conversations with Hiruzen about how to go forward. Not with anything difficult, simply what happened during the fight, and how resourceful Ryouta was, among other things like that.
Jiraiya was with her, and discussing a few things for the future.
"So, the kid actually did it, he took out Orochimaru."
Tsunade nods here head.
"Yes, I witnessed it with my own eyes, Orochimaru is deceased. I know you had more feelings about him than I, so I can't speak for you. But witnessing what he has done. That boy...he has saved many lives, in the future, from such a wicked man. And he saved Mikoto."
"Yeah...Orochimaru, did cause a lot of grief in the past. While he was a comrade...in the past, now that he had gone too far...well, looks like you've got yourself a strong Uchiha, but the issue is with Naruko. The Akatsuki, will be coming for her."
"I figured. How long do we have?"
"I can't confirm it fully of course, but some sources have said that it could be around two to three years. That's why, I want to take her out of the village, and train her, teach her more about harnessing the power of the Nine Tails, and make her into a stronger Ninja that can take on the Akatsuki."
Tsunade understood what Jiraiya was asking, and how big of a deal this truly was.
"I see, I suppose it would make the most sense. She is the Jinchuriki, she needs to be prepared for the future. Because Orochimaru is gone, doesn't mean that the threat of others trying to harness her power is."
"Exactly. I'll make sure that she is as strong as she can be, and maybe I'll drill in some new techniques haha~"
"Yeah...anyway, you best go and see her, tell her the news...actually, let me speak to Ryouta first. There's something that I want to tell him, that also concerns Naruko."
"Aah yeah, because they're dating or something, right?"
Tsunade couldn't hide the smile on her face.
"I think in time, yes they will be. Naruko might not fully understand it yet, but I can see that she has a deep love for him, and he returns such affections. She asked me many times to make sure Ryou-kun got the best treatment, that he was well looked after, while expressing concern for him. As for Ryou-kun...haha, that boy is going to be rather busy in the future." Tsunade smirks, and directs her eyes towards Jiraiya. "Considering that I'm going to be marrying him, he definitely will be busy."
Jiraiya immediately felt his face drop at the joke Tsunade gave, and he shook side to side.
"A-Are you serious?!"
"That I am, that I am. I will be known as Tsunade Uchiha from now on."
Jiraiya turned his head, yelling "No, it can't be!" and rushed out of the room at lightning fast speed, leaving behind a bemused Tsunade.
As Tsunade was getting on with some stuff, there was a knock at the door.
[Tsunade, may I enter?]
She recognized the voice, it was Danzo.
Tsunade sighed, and thought "Not now Danzo, I'm not in the mood for your crap, get lost..." with a very tired expression on her face, not wishing to deal with Danzo right now, but she had to push down her inner thoughts for the moment, and speak in a calm manner to not reveal anything about how she truly felt about the old war hawk.
"...Yes, come inside."
She called out louder so he could hear, the door opened to reveal the older gentleman himself.
"Tsunade, I have heard of the battle with Orochimaru, it seems that like wildfire, the news of Ryouta Uchiha killing him is spreading."
"Yes, he did do that, but what is it that you wish to speak about?"
With Danzo, she always suspected that it would be the case where she would hear him try and say something about gaining more power, or using the power they had, or he would try and worm his way into the ranks again somehow, it usually was a case like that.
"Its just, I have been thinking, and this news, is very good for our village. They will come to understand the military might that we have under our disposal, a thirteen year old taking out one of the legendary Sannin, we can begin-"
"Danzo, I have been made aware of your past transgressions with the Uchiha, and I cannot allow you to become involved with Ryouta Uchiha either. If your line of questioning is leading anywhere close to him, then I would have to ask you to leave."
Danzo thought that would be the case.
That she would shut him down in such a manner.
"I see, I was going to suggest, now that he has proven himself against the Sannin, that he is an even more valuable asset to the village. I wondered about the future plans, but I understand. My past is something that keeps me held back, and for reasons that are acceptable. However, if I can say one thing?"
"What is it?"
Tsunade asked, so Danzo cleared his throat.
"Do not waste the boys talents. He is a huge asset to this village."
Tsunade wondered about the true meaning of those words, as she watched Danzo leave.
He thought "I have to go with a different option instead. Yes, that option would be the best one to do. But first, I have to check up on my other guests." and left the room, with Tsunade looking on curiously, she always did when it came to people such as Danzo, there always was something he was up to.
Back with Ryouta, when she also was able to see him, he went to go and see Mikoto, as she had requested.
Going towards the young woman's room, he knocked on the door along with announcing his presence so she'd know who it was, and waited for the "Come in!" which came relatively quickly.
Going inside, he saw that Mikoto was laid on the bed, her eyes shifted towards Ryouta.
"Ryou-kun, you've arrived, I'm glad that you're okay."
"Yes, I'm fine. You're okay Mikoto-san?"
Mikoto nods, beckoning him closer into the room, Ryouta followed her hand wave, going to the right hand side of the bed.
"I am getting better. Orochimaru placed some stuff onto me, and...well, it didn't go the way that I thought it would go in terms of recovery. Eventually, I will be able to go back on duty. Speaking of duty Ryou-kun, I wish to speak about that for a short time."
"What about it Mikoto-san?"
Mikoto gave an enchanting smile on her face, something that even the young man was surprised by.
"I saw what you did with Orochimaru, how impressive you were during that fight. I saw how strong, and the lengths you'd go to for the village, how you'd protect it with your life. In the past, Uchiha loved the village, but we always didn't go about it the right way, many people became lost due to the power of hatred within this clan of ours, so as I watched you during the fight with Orochimaru, I was able to see how the Uchiha really should have been. Full of conviction, full of kindness. Uchiha love the most, and losing that love, can bring on great pain and devastation."
Ryouta showed a small smile, and looked towards him.
He went to speak, when she did instead.
"Orochimaru...because of me, you went through so much. To save just me...I feel immensely grateful of course...but, I put you in that position where you were in danger...I feel guilty...for not being able to stop him...if I had maybe done something different...it keeps running through my head."
Ryouta reached over, and took her hands within his own.
"Mikoto-san, you did everything you could back then, you fought so hard, Kakashi-sensei told me as much. You did what you thought was the best thing to do at that time Mikoto-san and it was your quick wit that saved Kakashi-sensei's life. And as for Orochimaru, screw Orochimaru."
That brought a smile to Mikoto's lips.
"Hehe...ooh dear~"
"I mean it...you don't have to feel guilt for him and his mistakes, and I know no one has any blame aimed at you for his disgusting actions. He made his own path, he chose to do these things. If he went after you, it was because he knew it would be one of the best ways to truly hurt me, and Satsuki-chan, because that is the kind of man he turned into, someone that spreads fear and revels in hate. Never worry about it Mikoto-san, I don't want you to blame yourself for anything okay?"
"But your eyes, they've lost some light, you might eventually...I feel so guilty, that I have brought the process on faster, I don't want anything like that to happen to you, you sweet soul..."
Mikoto looked depressed, so Ryouta did his best to comfort her.
"I would go blind, to save someone I care for, someone I love, Mikoto-san." Mikoto lightly smiled as he squeezed her hands. "From what I heard Kakashi-sensei say, it seemed like you saved his life. You made sure that he was able to live, and fought so hard, even taking out an entire group that consisted of many Ninja by yourself. So please don't feel guilty, I came for you, and would do again and again, you're someone that I immensely care for Mikoto-san. Always have, always will. My eyes lost light, okay, I will adjust, and become even stronger. The point is...I saved you, that is very much worth losing some light in my eyes."
Mikoto always felt comforted by his words, and it was refreshing to hear them as well.
"You're a kind hearted boy...You truly are a good person. Thank you Ryou-kun. That's why, I'm going to do my best from now on. To become strong...and to also, begin teaching the next generation. Like you, Ryou-kun, and others...well, it seems that maybe you might not need me..."
"I always will, Mikoto-san. We will always need you, Mikoto-san. You're very important to our lives. You are...very important to me."
Feeling touched by his words, she simply hugged him tightly.
Feeling content with what had happened for the time being, she couldn't help but feel that Ryouta truly had matured into such a fine young man.
Ryouta stayed in bed for a good bit of the day, visitors came and went, people including Hinata, Hanabi, Karin. Gaara, Temari, Ino, Shikamaru, Neji, Lee, Sakura, among others. He felt rather blessed with all of their generosity and kindness for the way that they came for him, and helped him.
The one person he hadn't seen, was oddly Naruko. He thought that she might have been some of the first he would have seen.
He did find it odd that she hadn't visited, in fact he was a little worried that she didn't visit, as he also wished to make sure that she was fine as well.
However, after it went dark, it finally came down to a meeting with Tsunade, to finish off the day. She came into the room, giving off a small smile as she entered. Her eyes went over the young man, before she got to the right hand side of the bed.
"How are you feeling?"
"Better, I think I'll be okay to go tomorrow, with your permission of course."
Tsunade continued to smile, sitting down near the bed.
"That's good, because we've got much to discuss. Like you becoming the Sixth Hokage."
"Of course, me becoming the..." Ryouta blinked, his eyes shifted to Tsunade fully who looked deadly serious. "...W-Wait, what?"
Tsunade showed a strong smile on her face, pulling closer, a look of intenseness within her eyes.
"Yes, its been decided, I'm retiring. Short time as Hokage I know, but I've thought about it, and you becoming the Hokage, really is the best decision. A young Uchiha becoming the Hokage, I am sure it would send quite the message that we had a thirteen year old becoming the Hokage."
Ryouta didn't even know if she was being serious, her eyes, and voice said that she was, but the smile on her lips told him different. Even then, Tsunade was hard to read at times when she was teasing or being serious.
"...This is a joke, right?"
She denied it with a shake of her head.
"No, this isn't a joke, you're becoming the Sixth Hokage, immediately. Even Sarutobi-sensei agrees with me, you're the best for the job. Do not worry, I shall still support you, I've decided to take over the medical corps, and train young Medical Ninja."
Ryouta rapidly blinked, the Hokage Tsunade continued showing a small smile on her face.
"...Tsunade-san..."
Tsunade had her smile grow even more, and she pulled closer, tapping his forehead.
"I was kidding." Ryouta sweat dropped. "But, you know, it could be a case where you could become Hokage. I think it would be good one day to have an Uchiha Hokage."
"If I was needed, then I would want to do that...b-but, you wished to see me, about something?"
"I did, it concerns Naruko."
Ryouta opened his eyes ever so slightly wider.
"Is something going on with Naruko-chan?"
"She saw your, Susanoo."
Ryouta recalled when that would have happened, when he was saving Tsunade. She was there, and he presumed that she would have questions about it.
"And she wishes to know what it is? Like Karin-san?"
"I took care of Karin, personally." Ryouta looked astonished as Tsunade made a joking threat. "But Naruko...you see, she is the type to wonder, and because of the past, the information of your eyes, has been a closely guarded secret, something that only a few people would be aware of."
Ryouta lowered his brows, and thought about Naruko, and the entire situation.
"Yes...its been difficult, all this time, not being able to tell people I'm close to. If word got out...not that I believe anyone I know would say anything about it...Hokage-sama, ex I should say, thought it would be best if only a few people were aware of it, for safety reasons. Because I was young, and therefore people could have tried to take advantage of my eyes."
"Indeed, Sarutobi-sensei briefed me on this, and now, he has told me that it is up to me, as I am Hokage, to decide what to do, and upon seeing how you defeated Orochimaru, even Sarutobi-sensei agrees that now is the time to leave the handling of the Mangekyou Sharingan secret up to you and myself. So, I've decided to leave it with you solely. Naruko, I will let you decide if you wish to tell her. Since this is your secret to share, what do you think about telling her?"
Ryouta didn't really need to think about it.
He thought it was a long time coming that he could explain his thoughts to those that he cared for, and his eyes. About what happened the night that he lost Shisui, and what powers it had birthed.
"She is the Jinchuriki, of the Nine Tails. In a lot of ways, she also has a power that she didn't ask for, a power that has caused her grief. Mine hasn't caused me grief, but it was brought on by grief, and I didn't ask for this power, because how I got it meant I lost someone I love. I personally think that telling her would be the best thing to do. Knowing Naruko-chan, it would only play on her mind and make her wonder more about me."
Tsunade adopts a small smile on her face.
"I thought that you might say something like that. I agree with everything you said. So, I'll leave it up to you to tell her, Sixth Hokage."
Ryouta sweat dropped at the last part.
"Tsunade-san...honestly."
"What? You are becoming the Sixth Hokage." Tsunade laughed as she walked to the door. "By the way, excellent work, with Orochimaru. Everything he threw at you, you turned it around on him and didn't allow him to win. I am glad that he has now died. I wish Orochimaru hadn't gone down this dark path."
"Me too, Tsunade-san."
"Yes...he chose a dark path, and it caught up to him in the end."
Tsunade looked content as she walked out of the room, leaving Ryouta alone to contemplate what he was going to say when it came to Naruko.
The next day came and Ryouta was given the clear to leave the hospital. Though he had felt fine, Tsunade wished to do some checks before he did leave. He began packing his things away, when he saw the door burst wide open, revealing that Karin was stood there, her eyes directly on Ryouta himself, before she gave a strong gaze.
"Looks like I got you alone~"
"Geez, that sounded a bit scary~"
Karin stuck out her tongue.
"Not at all, so what are you doing?"
"Just about to leave, actually."
Karin's face fell.
"W-What?! Are you serious!?"
"Well, yeah I guess~"
"B-But, I was going to take care of you and cuddle you tightly!"
Ryouta sweat dropped at that.
"Really, I am fine, no need to take care of me~"
"Gosh darn, I was looking forward to it. Though we can still cuddle." Karin smiled at the end, and pulled closer, her arms folding. "I heard about Haku and what she said, it seems that after this event, lots of people are intending to get stronger, huh? To make sure they are prepared for the future."
Ryouta nods his head.
"She does yeah, I think her battle with Kimimaro really did bring many things into perspective. She told me that she saw a lot of herself in him, and I can understand that."
Karin nods a single time.
"Yeah, it was really a rough time, huh. Haku had a good fight though...I am sure that she was able to give Kimimaro a good fight in the end, that is how he wished for after all. Still, it makes me think about Orochimaru. How he twisted peoples lives, and it isn't over, is it? Itachi is still out there, and you are gunning for Sugaru, right?"
"Yeah, I intend to find him one day and get answers for many things. Not just my brother, but other things as well. If he was working with anyone back then, or what."
Karin let out a small laugh.
"Guess its time for me to become stronger too."
"Yeah?"
Karin gives a confident smile.
"Keeping up with people like you and Haku, I have too! Like, everyone is truly trying really hard now, and I wish to do the same. Develop my seals and work on my fighting capabilities. I am even going to be learning more about Earth Release from Anko-sensei, ooh yeah she is even saying she wished to become stronger as well."
"I am sure you both will become stronger."
His words reassured her, and it also made her blush lightly, realizing that they were alone right now.
"Ryou-kun, since we are alone, maybe we could..." The door opened, revealed Anko, who caused Karin to growl. "Ooh come on Sensei, really!?"
"Yeah, really!" Anko challengingly said back, only to become confused. "Wait, what is this about exactly?"
"You had to interrupt time between us! I was about to try and cuddle Ryou-kun!"
Ryouta blinked as Anko laughed.
"I see, then I guess I came at a good time, you can be wild Karin. I can't even imagine what you will be like in the future, talk about scary~"
"I am not scary at all! Do not say such things! Ugh, whatever, I will cuddle Ryou-kun later!"
Anko and Ryouta watched her storm off, perplexing them both.
"Well, that was interesting." Anko strolled towards Ryouta, and gave a wink. "I came to check on one of my favourite students, but, it seems that you are already to go, huh."
"Yeah, ready to get back to my own bed."
Anko let out a giggle.
"Good, good. You should relax, and rest after what happened. Need time off?"
"No, no, I will be ready for missions soon~"
"I thought you'd say that, so I came to say that our team is off for a week. Both you and Haku have been through a lot, so have I, and Karin...is a very unique girl, so she has to have time to recover~" Ryouta blinked with confusion. "So, no worries about team stuff for a little while. As I said, you can relax, and rest for the week. Then its back to business as usual~"
Ryouta smiled, nodding, glad that Anko was being her usual self, which did make him happy to see.
Getting back home, Ryouta had called Naruko over to discuss various things about what happened, and now, he waited for her inside of the house.
She did come by eventually, so he brought her towards the couch.
"Naruko-chan, I'm glad that you could come."
"Yeah, Granny said that you wanted to see me about something?"
Ryouta sweat dropped.
"You can't keep calling her Granny you know?"
"Haha, its fine~ She loves it!"
Ryouta didn't believe that, but he didn't argue with her either, and carried on.
"Anyway Naruko-chan, I heard you've been asking some questions...since the Orochimaru incident. To do with me."
Naruko scratches her cheek in a shy manner.
"W-Well, I was curious and all, but it doesn't really matter I guess...th-though you'd tell me if you were like me, right?"
"Like you?"
Ryouta questioned, curious if she meant about Tailed Beasts, as that was the only thing he could think of, and would gain his answer moments later.
"You know, with one of those Tailed Beasts...do you have one too?"
Ryouta could understand why she would draw that conclusion when she didn't have any knowledge on the Mangekyou Sharingan.
"I would tell you, but I don't have one. No, what you saw, was something else."
"Eh? Now I'm confused! What did you do? I haven't ever seen a Jutsu like that before!"
"Yeah...its a Jutsu unique to Uchiha, with special eyes. See, look at my eyes." Ryouta turned on his Sharingan, as Naruko looked deeply into his red eyes. "The Sharingan, you know what it looks like, the three tomoe and all, right?"
"Yeah, of course! I've seen them for years now!"
"Then keep looking." She did just that, and watched with keen interest as his eyes shifted from ordinary Sharingan, to the Mangekyou Sharingan. "See, how they've changed."
Naruko was perplexed, looking at the newly changed shape.
"W-Whoa! They look really pretty! How did you do that? Some Genjutsu?"
"No, it isn't an illusion. Suffice to say, these eyes, are a next step to a Sharingan, its called Mangekyou Sharingan."
Naruko was even more confused than ever. But at least one thing was beginning to make sense to her.
"So...they're what made that bone creature come out? And that acid and white fire stuff?"
"Yes, that's right. The Mangekyou, I'm sure you're wondering why Satsuki-chan doesn't have it."
"Yeah, can't she get it?"
"She could...but the price for it, would mean that someone close to her, would have to die."
Naruko's face turned serious.
"Wait...die?"
"Yeah...its a bit of a heavy topic...but Tsunade-san said that you really wanted to know, and I really hated keeping this secret from you, especially after learning of your Jinchuriki status. You see, Satsuki-chan got her Sharingan, the night the Uchiha died, because it was traumatic. I got mine when I fought Yashiro, because it was also very emotion fuelling. And these eyes, the Mangekyou...I got them, when my brother died."
Naruko was stunned beyond belief, hearing this made her understand why he'd not want to talk about them.
"...All the way back then?"
Ryouta nods his head.
"Yes, I have had these eyes since back then. But, there is a price to pay for these eyes. Each time they're used…I go a little more blind, until eventually, I'll be completely blind."
"W-Wait, you've gone blind?!"
Hearing the panic in her voice, he tried to reassure her.
"No-"
"How many fingers am I holding up?!"
She asked in desperation.
Ryouta looked, seeing two fingers, and began saying "I can see..." but Naruko's face fell, as she thought he said "I can't see..." and she hugged him tightly.
"No! You really have gone blind! Ryouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu! I am so sorry!"
"Naruko-chan, I'm not blind."
His words fell on deaf ears as she kept hugging him tightly, and rubbing his face with her own, he presumed it was her way of trying to comfort him, but each time she did do it, he could hear a slight purring sound which he found to be absolutely adorable.
"Ryou, its okay! I'll take care of you from now on! No matter what you need! Don't worry about a thing believe it!"
"I believe you, but I'm not blind. I saw your two fingers."
Naruko hiccupped, while Ryouta gave her a curious stare.
"R-Reallllllllllllllllllly?! You did see it?!"
"Yes, I said I'd go blind, I'm not blind yet, and hopefully never will be."
Naruko cried tears of joy, and continued hugging him tightly as she continued rubbing hers and his faces together, something Ryouta returned but in a more gentle manner.
"S-So, you use your eyes, and you really go blind? Isn't there a way to fix it? I mean...I could do it for you, I could go and get the things for you...I don't want you to go blind Ryou...please tell me what to do to fix it..."
Ryouta gave a soft smile, he truly did find her so kind and generous, wanting to help people, it was a core reason he really cared for her. He could feel the love that she had for him, even if she herself wasn't entirely aware of it, he could see it, and he also felt similar for her.
"I do know of one method...but, that isn't on the table right now...so each time I use them, I go blind a little more. Even now, I have bouts of double vision or blurriness, not all the time, but it does happen infrequently. My Sharingan still works and all, its just I have to concentrate even more."
"Eh...but you could go blind eventually…? No, it really sucks! And you used them, despite knowing this, to save us all?!"
"Of course, I'd risk blindness to save my loved ones Naruko-chan. I wish I could have said earlier, but Hokage-sama...eeh, as you'd call him, the old man, decreed that I couldn't tell anyone until I was old enough and strong enough to protect myself properly. I suppose now that I've defeated Orochimaru, its been deemed the time that I can tell people, its probably been something they've thought about for a little while now, since I became Jonin, but its been hectic since I became Jonin haha. I suppose we share it in common, don't we? We both have powers we didn't ask for, and that can be detrimental to us as well as helpful."
Naruko sniffled, nodding over and over again.
"Yeah, you're right...I'm glad you told me...because I will do what I can to help you…! I promise that I will!"
"I know that you would, thank you Naruko-chan. Its the same for you as well, I'll always help you with whatever you need. That Tailed Beast inside of you, I'll be right there to support you with that."
Ryouta watched as she curled against him, and felt his hand stroking her long blonde hair comfortingly.
She didn't realize it, but she really did love being within his arms. Perhaps it was because she could have lost him, or so she thought at the time, now she didn't ever want to let him go either, she couldn't let him go now.
She didn't know it at the time, but it was because of the love she had for him, that she never wished to be apart from him ever again.
In a dark secluded area, Kabuto and Guren had been brought, and restrained. Kabuto was still injured, not enough to die from, but wasn't healed enough so he could cause issues. They were monitored at all times, so they didn't have the chance to use their chakra either.
"What happened to Orochimaru-sama? Why wont they say anything?"
Guren asked Kabuto for the hundredth time, or at least felt like that many times.
"I don't know anymore than you, as far as I am aware, is that Ryouta Uchiha went to confront him. With all of the traps, and other things he had set up, I am hard pressed to say it was an easy fight for either of them."
"Orochimaru-sama, he couldn't have died...could he?"
"Maybe, I don't know. If we were beside him, then maybe not...but, we had to leave it to Orochimaru-sama...and now we're God knows where. I wish to see who it is that has caught us in this mess."
"It was I, who caught you."
A new voice came out of the shadows, one that Kabuto recognized.
"Danzo..."
Stepping out of the shadows, was indeed Danzo, or rather, a clone of him.
"Yes, I have come to see you both, and begin making some connections."
"Connections with you? You tried to have me killed together with Nono, you did things to her that..."
"Nono, wasn't someone that was suited to being a Root Ninja, and she had to go as a result. At the time, I also thought that you were an asset that would turn and cause trouble for myself, but Orochimaru took it upon himself to take you to his side instead."
"He did, he saved me from a life with you...so, why would I try and have any connections with you now? You have some nerve to think I would agree to come to you now."
"Kabuto my boy, we both have a goal now that we have to do together. I need your expertise, and you in turn need my support. If you want to keep living that is."
Kabuto narrowed his brows.
"What do you mean by that?"
"Orochimaru, has died."
The news shocked both Guren and Kabuto.
"N...No, it couldn't be, he died?!"
Guren snapped, Danzo nods his head.
"Yes, he was killed by Ryouta Uchiha."
It wasn't real. That's what Guren kept thinking about it. The idea of Ryouta killing Orochimaru. It was a very difficult thing to even think about. Being able to think of him as anything other than being alive. The one that took her in, and someone that taught her many things.
"Impossible...it couldn't have been...not Orochimaru-sama…!"
Guren yelled out loud, while Kabuto lowered his head quietly.
"He really died..."
Kabuto kept thinking about how the fight went on, what Ryouta did, and what Orochimaru did. All of it kept fumbling around in his mind and he was having difficulty in deciding what would be the right path to go down now, if he even had one.
"Yes, he did. He ended up deceased. But, now that he has, you both get to decide your future. You both can be tremendous assets to me, to get revenge for your Masters death, or you could die right here and no one would ever remember you."
"How could we even ever trust you, Danzo? You betrayed me once, and I wouldn't be shocked if you'd do it again. You turned my...you turned Nono against me, you made her not even remember what I looked like, conditioning her to kill me, and now you want me on your side? As if. You have gone crazy in your time being locked away."
Kabuto was defiant, Guren on the other hand kept wondering what she was going to do now.
"To get revenge for Orochimaru-sama...now that he is dead...what do I do now...? He is out there...he is...but, I am...I am here...and I could get revenge...I don't know what to think..."
Danzo wasn't entirely surprised Kabuto would be against him, he wasn't sure about Guren either right now, but for his plans, the power and resources these two had, he knew he would have to turn them to his side, either by force, or by cooperation, Danzo didn't have the time to be picky, he had to gain what he needed to begin his next move.
"You think you're going to live long, Kabuto. The fact is, the Uchiha boy will come for you eventually, both of us have had our lives destroyed due to the Uchiha, I am offering a chance for you to get your own back, by joining my side. I have eyes that you simply do not possess. I am giving you the chance to join my side. To have meanings in your lives, as otherwise, you'll be hunted down and executed. Anyone that is with Orochimaru, eventually will be killed. Either by Konoha, or the Akatsuki. This is a way for you to live. I will leave you with the choice, but it should be clear that you have limited options now."
It was a threat, it was blackmail.
They both knew this.
But Guren was beginning to become lost in her pain of losing Orochimaru as well as the conflicting emotions she felt when regarding Orochimaru and what had happened over his time with her, and Kabuto wished to not die either, while also thinking about Orochimaru, Ryouta, and Nono herself, someone Kabuto cared about.
To survive, they kept wondering, if this was what they were supposed to do.
Danzo, was leaving them little choice, and despite it being Danzo, Kabuto wondered if there was a way for them to be able to fulfil their goals.
He couldn't trust Danzo, neither could Guren...but, with little option left for the time being, they had to make decisions to secure their future, before doing anything else.
"Danzo...there is no way I could trust him, as soon as he sees my usefulness gone, he will end me...but, now with Orochimaru-sama dead...I have to keep going, to survive, I have to be better than Orochimaru-sama...Danzo, such dirty tricks...but you wont have the last laugh against me old man...I wont lose to you."
Kabuto with passion inside of him, set his sights on gaining strength, and now had his focus clear, he wouldn't ever give in, no matter what.
End chapter!
So this chapter was a relaxing one, getting some stuff out like the world becoming more aware of Ryouta taking down Orochimaru. The Akatsuki have found out, Kisame is thrilled, Kakuzu also seems to wish to gain money off of Ryouta through his usual methods, Itachi and Izumi were also happy to hear that he took down Orochimaru, Sasori also seems to have some thoughts on Ryouta that we could see more of at a later time. Mikoto and Ryouta had a moment together, the same for Haku, and Karin with him. Then at the end, Ryouta and Naruko spoke more about his Mangekyou Sharingan, now the time was right, and became closer than ever.
Then at the end, it seems Danzo has begun making moves with Kabuto and Guren, how that will play out, we shall see in the future.
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, Fu,