Two onyx eyes snapped opened as a young raven haired man took deep breaths in and out.
He slowly sat up and he looked around.
He felt the blazing and familiar heat of the black flames from the Amaterasu. Not his Amaterasu per say, but the Amaterasu of a person he was more than familiar with.
'So it worked. It actually worked.' He thought with satisfaction as a genuine smile graced his face.
His eyes then widened again as he turned to his right and seen the almost lifeless body of his brother, Itachi Uchiha.
One more second and he would be dead all together.
He couldn't let that happen.
With swiftness and speed that surpassed the fastest, he placed his hand on Itachi's chest.
Once he removed it, a Sun seal could be seen. He remembered Naruto doing the same technique to Might Guy from before, all he did was mimicked the action.
He let out a heavy sigh. That was too close.
Now he had to hurry up because if he remembered correctly, Obito and Zetsu was about to come and pick them up.
His hands made signs with swiftness as he made the seal.
Itachi's body disappeared temporarily.
Now what he can do is make fake copies of them both. These Shadow Clones were unlike the regular ones and should last for a long time and Obito and Zetsu wouldn't know they were Shadow Clones at all.
He made a sign and a copy of Itachi's dead body appeared again and his fake sleeping body appeared beside it.
He then turned in a certain direction and could sense the eight man squad consisting of Naruto and the rest.
Now he could do this one or two ways. He could either go to the Hidden Leaf Village himself or get escorted there by the squad. It would make the most sense to do the latter.
He nodded to himself and teleported.
The second after Sasuke teleported Obito and Zetsu appeared.
"Excellent, he's still here. Get Itachi's dead body Zetsu." The hidden Obito said.
-Meanwhile-
"Damnit! We're almost there!!" Naruto yelled. He couldn't stop. Not when he was so close to bringing Sasuke back home..so close to fulfilling his promise to Sakura.
"He's right up ahead Naruto-kun!" Hinata yelled as she had her Byakugan activated.
"No..I'm right here."
Everyone stopped in their tracks as they heard his voice.
He couldn't help the wide smirk that slowly spread on his face as he looked at their flabbergasted expressions. It filled him with various emotions seeing all of their faces again.
Like Naruto for example
It was quite surreal to him not seeing fresh blood stained on his face, or the bright cerulean blue eyes stripped of life because of a mistake he regretted doing to him in his past timeline.
Or Sakura
Her jade orbs were filled with life and strength. Not stained by him breaking her heart for the infinite amount of time. She like everyone else, was astonished at his sudden appearance.
-Naruto pov-
"No..I'm right here."
That voice..
It can't be...
"S-Sasuke??" He questioned unbelievably. His eyes were wide with surprise as he started to walk towards him. He wondered if this was an illusion or Genjutsu..but he would've immediately knew if that was the case.
He analyzed Sasuke's face expression as he walked towards him.
He looked different
He tried to sense out that familiar hate that emitted from him..the familiar darkness that hovered over his best friend's form,but..
The darkness was gone.
Replaced by feelings of peace, ambition, and even happiness?
Just what the hell happened with Sasuke?
His steps were paused because Yamato held his hand out in front of him. "Wait Naruto we don't know if this is a trick or not. He's still dangerous." He said cautiously.
"Don't worry I'm not here to hurt anyone. I want to come back to the Leaf." They heard Sasuke said..quite matter of factly in fact.
-Sakura pov-
This was like a dream.
But she could tell this wasn't a Genjutsu because she was a genius in identifying them.
Sasuke-kun was here!
Willingly at that!
And he wanted to come back to the Leaf?!
Yeah..no way she was buying that
"S-Sasuke-kun are y-you serious??" She asked shockingly, not believing him.
He nodded with ease in return. "I have much to discuss with the Hokage." He said. "Let's make haste."
-Third person pov-
Naruto's eyes brightened up by the millions. He smiled an all tooth smile. "SASUKE!!" He, Sakura, and even Kakashi ran to Sasuke.
Tears fell out of Sakura's eyes. "You don't know how happy I am to hear those words..Sasuke-kun."
That was an understatement.
Kakashi smiled his classic one eyed smile. He couldn't believe it himself, but he could tell Sasuke was being honest. It's been a long time coming.
Hinata smiled as she was happy for the three. She never really communicated with Sasuke herself and to be honest, she didn't know anything about him outside of the norm, but he looked to be more grounded in a sense.
Kiba smirked. "Damn Sasuke's really coming back. Who would've thought." He said, offering his input.
'So this is the bond they have.' Sai thought as he watched them. Their relationship reminded him of his and his brother's in the past.
Shino smirked. Even when they were younger he had nothing against Sasuke. He actually liked him. He was glad the Uchiha was finally coming back.
"Okay okay that's enough." Sasuke actually gave them a small genuine smile. "Let's go." He said.
-Cutscene-
"So Sasuke what was it like? Training with Orochimaru and all that??" A smiling Naruto asked.
It was now nighttime and everyone decided to take a break. They should be back in the Hidden Leaf Village tomorrow. Kakashi and Yamato were talking and the rest were around a campfire.
"It was..an experience. It taught me a lot about myself and the world around me. I was mostly focused..on killing Itachi." Sasuke replied as he looked into the fire. Not now. He couldn't let everyone know Itachi was still alive yet. Until he talked with the Hokage and let her know the truth. "How have you all been?" He asked.
"Great Sasuke-kun. I've actually been training hard and am way stronger now." Sakura smiled at him. She still couldn't believe this was really real,but she wouldn't question or complain about it for a second.
"You..look great Sakura. I apologize to you all for troubling you so much." He said as he had a particularly saddened smile on his face. It seemed like it was based on something more deeper than what was on the surface.
Everyone had surprised expressions, some more than others.
Sakura herself was speechless with a hot blush.
Sasuke then looked at Hinata. His eyes softened "You look great as well..Hinata." He said.
Around this time he and Hinata were basically strangers and invisible to each other. He hoped to change that this time around. He owed it to her, especially after how he hurt her as well.
A massive blush was on her face. She was surprised he even remembered her name and she especially didn't expect that coming out of Sasuke's mouth nonetheless. She bashfully nodded in gratitude.
"Whoa.." Naruto tilted his head. "Are you..okay Sasuke??" He asked bewildered.
"Yeah did Orochimaru teach you how to be a Casanova too? Haha." Kiba chuckled.
"I for one think its a nice change from the regular Mr. Broody." Kakashi smiled as he patted Sasuke's shoulder.
Sasuke scoffed but smirked. He then glanced at Sai. "What's your name?" He asked.
"My name is Sai. Naruto and Sakura have talked a lot about you-" Sai looked at a particular feature of Sasuke. "Duckbutt." He finished and smiled.
Sasuke's eyes twitched in annoyance.
Naruto and Kiba laughed hard. Kakashi chuckled. Yamato and Shino smiled. Sakura and Hinata giggled.
Sasuke internally smiled. He was glad that the jutsu worked and promised that this time everything would be different.
-Cutscene-
Sasuke paused and took a deep breath in as he looked at the familiar large gates of the Hidden Leaf Village. It felt so nostalgic to him.
"We're back!! But we're not empty handed this time!!" Naruto smiled and yelled out.
"How's it feel being back Sasuke-kun?" A smiling Sakura asked. She was still happy that he was back and would be for a long while. It seems like he changed also, but it was a very welcome change.
"It makes me feel..happy." Sasuke grinned. Internally he scowled angrily. He would have to do something about him though. He still didn't figure out if he would kill him yet or not. "Do you guys think the village will accept me back?" He questioned.
"They should without a doubt Sasuke. It's not like you directly went against or attacked the Leaf in any way. You killed Orochimaru and an Akatsuki member, if anything the most you would get is a slap on the wrist." Kakashi responded.
"I'm sure I will be able to convince Grandma Tsunade if she doesn't think so Sasuke, so don't worry." Naruto said and gave him a thumbs up.
Sasuke nodded and they all walked in.
-Cutscene-
"What a surprise..Sasuke Uchiha." Tsunade was indeed surprised to see the man Naruto had chased after so much and for him to come willingly no less.
She could see why the young women fell so easily for him, he was a handsome young man. Anyways, it was time for business to be handled.
She sent the rest on their way, but asked for Naruto to wait outside.
Sasuke nodded. "Hokage." He greeted. "I'm here to return into the Leaf Village"
Her eyebrow raised. "And what makes you think you can return back so easily??"
"One because I didn't hurt or attack the Leaf Village in any way or form and two because I have valuable information." Sasuke responded, putting emphasis on valuable.
"Hm I see. That's true Sasuke. I agree and I know if I try to withhold you or don't allow you to, Naruto will definitely come and try to convince me..in that case welcome back to the Hidden Leaf Village. You can relax for now. I will send an ANBU member whenever your new apartment is ready and I will call you back in order to discuss the 'valuable information' you say that you have." She replied.
Sasuke nodded. It pleased him to know that it wasn't a sophisticated process returning back.
"..tell Naruto to come in now." Tsunade said.
He noticed the change in her tone to something more somber and saddened.
Right. Around this time, Jiraiya was killed too by Pain. Damn he would have a lot to think about and plan.
On the outside Sasuke seen Naruto smiling and looking at him expectantly.
He nodded. "I'm officially back Naruto." He said with a smile.
"Let's GO!! We gotta celebrate!!" Naruto yelled and brightly smiled.
"Of course. Tsunade wants to talk with you though." He said.
"Well I'll see you later Sasuke and congrats again on being back!" Naruto said and waved as he entered.
'I will most definitely have to talk with him after he's done.' Sasuke thought empathetically.
He figured he would visit and walk the streets of Konoha since it's been a long time.
-Cutscene-
Sasuke walked down the streets of Konoha and felt evocative as he looked around.
He paused as he could see the Yamanaka Shop to his left. The face of Ino entered his mind.
"Ino.." He said as his eyes softened, memories from before coming to the forefront. He then entered the shop.
-Ino pov-
She wondered what she could do after her shift was over..
Earlier she planned on getting some training in with Shika and Choji, but of course they had to be busy today of all days.
She let out a sigh
Maybe she could-
Her thoughts paused as she could finally hear the front door bell ring.
And to her extreme surprise it was-
"Sasuke-k-kun?!" She couldn't help the shocked scream that released from her immediately.
Her Sasuke-kun..was here..he was here of all places
Huh?!
"In the flesh Ino." He replied with a grin.
"W-what are you doing h-here? When did y-you come back??"She stuttered out as she was still surprised.
"I just returned back to the village not too long ago. It's good to see you again Ino..you look good." He said as he gave her a once over.
Blood immediately rushed heavily to her face. "A-awe thank y-you Sasuke-kun..that was s-sweet and really?! That's amazing!" She yelled with excitement.
"Yeah..well I was just stopping by to visit you Ino, I'll see you later." He said. He then turned and was about to leave.
Wait..that's it?
She didn't see him for years and that's what he really thought he would leave her with?
Yeeah no.
"Wait Sasuke-kun.." She called out and fast walked to him.
He heard her footsteps approaching him.
"Ye-" He was interrupted by the tight and warm hug she gave him.
"I'm..really glad you're back." She said.
-Third person pov-
Sasuke could hear the sincerity and honesty in her tone. It was strangely mixed with..somberness and something warm.
He would treat her much better than the old him did.
He softly rubbed her back. "I appreciate that." He said with gratitude.
She then warmly smiled at him. "I got to get back to work Sasuke-kun, but you can talk to me anytime. Oh and you definitely owe me a date by the way." She said with an eyebrow raised and hands on her hips.
Sasuke grinned and nodded. "Whenever I have time, I'll let you know." He then waved as he left.
After he left the flower shop, he was met by the ANBU member.
"Your new apartment is ready Mr. Uchiha." The ANBU member said. He nodded and both left.
-Cutscene-
Sasuke was on his new couch, thinking about the next event that would happen.
Nagato was going to attack the Hidden Leaf Village with his Paths of Pain. Konan would be there to help him.
They of course wouldn't be a match for him. He planned to actually take care of the Pains himself before they destroyed the Leaf.
As for Nagato he would take his Rinnegan and put one inside of his right eye, so he could have two Eternal Rinnegans. For the other..he was still thinking about it.
Hopefully his clone already let the rest of Team Taka know to meet him in the Leaf Village so they can join too.
His thoughts paused as he heard knocks on his door.
He stood up and walked to open it.
"Narut-" He was interrupted by Naruto hugging him.
"...how??" Naruto asked the simple question.
There were many undertones to the question. He definitely just finished hearing about Jiraiya's death.
"How what Naruto?" He asked as he pat his back in support.
"..how did you keep going...when your clan was killed." The downcast and teary eyed Naruto asked. He felt Sasuke was one of the only few people that could relate to his situation and that he could talk to about this.
Sasuke's eyes glazed over in reminiscing.
"I can tell you this Naruto. You live on for them..you continue to fight for what's right and never give up and quit on yourself because they wouldn't want that for you. Use that pain to protect what matters and the ones you love." He finished.
Naruto's eyes widened with astonishment. Those are the exact words he needed to hear.
He watched as Naruto wiped his tears and determination and conviction came upon his face. "Thank you..Sasuke. I will keep your words in mind." Naruto then smiled and held out his fist.
He smirked. "Hymp..loser." He fist bumped him back.
Both then felt a gush of wind as an ANBU member appeared.
"The Hokage requests your presence Mr. Uchiha.." The ANBU member said.
Sasuke nodded. "Naruto you should come too." He said.
Naruto's expression turned serious. By the tone of Sasuke's voice this will be important. He nodded and followed them.
-In the Hokage's office-
"So you're telling me the Akatsuki leader Pain and Akatsuki member Konan are going to attack the Hidden Leaf Village Sasuke??"
Sasuke heard Tsunade ask him once again. He of course couldn't tell her everything because he didn't want to interfere with the timeline too much
"And there's someone that will be controlling the Pains. A mastermind behind the scenes. As per Jiraiya's message." He said.
"Well there's two questions I have for you now. The first, how do you know this information and the second why don't we take care of the real Pain before everything happens?" She asked curiously.
He already came up with an answer for the first. Now for the second, he gave a subtle glance towards Naruto.
"I used my Sharingan to get intel from Itachi and that's because I don't know exactly where the real pain is." He responded.
"Hm well I thank you for telling us about that Sasuke. Do you think I should warn everyone and set up extra reinforcements around the village?" She questioned.
"Not for now because they will probably notice it and change their plans. I will do my best to either kill or get them away from the village when they arrive." He said.
Tsunade and Naruto's eyes widened with surprise at that bold statement. They were the only two in the office other than Sasuke as Tsunade asked the rest to step out.
Naruto was quiet and attentive, but now decided to say something.
"Wait Sasuke won't you need help?? I doubt you can handle all the Pains plus his partner by yourself." He said as he looked at Sasuke unbelievably.
'You have no idea Naruto.' Sasuke thought as he internally smirked.
"Will you be able to help Naruto?" He asked. He asked this question because he knew Naruto was going to go Sage Mode training and Naruto needed it.
"Well I should be back in time after my Toad Sage Mode Training. I'll make sure not to come back late." Naruto responded with a serious nod.
"I hope you know what you're doing Sasuke. Let me know if you change anything or whatever else. You both are dismissed." Tsunade said. Sasuke and Naruto then left.
-Cutscene-
After wishing Naruto goodbye, Sasuke immediately made it back to his apartment. As much as he wanted to, he couldn't afford to talk to anyone right now. He had to plan because the time was almost near.
He would tell Tsunade about Itachi after this was all over. Naruto's training actually gave him a good idea on something he could do for himself.
Why not learn Sage Mode for himself? It would be easy for him to learn considering the fact he had the powers of Ashura and Hashirama cells on his side. He was basically a magnet for Nature Chakra, he just didn't know how to use it.
Instead of Toad Sage Mode, he wanted to learn Snake Sage Mode. Orochimaru himself couldn't master it because of his Chakra reserves, but his reserves were way superior to Orochimaru's.
In his past time he knew of the location because of Orochimaru, but strangely never thought of visiting there or getting Sage Mode. Probably because he was so preoccupied with his goals from before.
He will create a Shadow Clone to substitute his temporary leave. He will definitely make sure he's back before Pain's arrival.
He nodded his head. 'Let me not waste any time.' He thought with urgency.
-Cutscene-
With his base speed, it didn't take Sasuke long to reach his destination.
He remembered about the snake trials, but really didn't want to participate in them.
He would do this instead.
Sasuke pulsed a small bit of his Chakra in the Ryuchi Cave area and waited.
Eventually he watched as his familiar partner and friend revealed himself.
"Master Sasuke? What are you doing here??" Aoda confusingly questioned.
"Wait Aoda..you remember?" Sasuke asked, confused himself. He was sure he didn't get the summoning contract with him at this part of time.
He could see Aoda nod. "Indeed Master Sasuke. I remember it all, but I didn't tell anyone. If I may ask, what are you doing here?" Aoda asked again.
Sasuke was glad he didn't have to go and sign both of the summoning contracts again. He assumed Garuda also remembered about the future, at least hopefully he did.
"I'm here to learn Snake Sage Mode." He responded.
"Hm interesting. Well the White Snake Sage does request you since we all felt your Chakra. You don't have to go through the trials as she requested your presence personally." Aoda replied.
He nodded. "Take me there." He said.
"As you wish Master Sasuke." Aoda responded and led the way.
-Cutscene-
"You are dismissed Aoda."
Sasuke heard the loud, strong, and light woman's voice of the White Snake Sage say.
Aoda nodded to them both before he left.
"Greetings Sasuke Uchiha. You want to learn Snake Sage Mode is that right?" She asked him.
He nodded. "Right away." He replied.
"Since I felt the potential in your Chakra, I will heed your request. Now first I will inject your body with Natural Energy, if it is able to withstand it, I will train you in Snake Sage Mode." She said.
He raised an eyebrow. "And if unable?" He asked curiously.
"You will die for wasting my time." She replied without hesitation.
He hid his scoff. As if she could kill him.
"Are you ready?" She asked.
He nodded his head.
"Bring your arm forth." She said.
Sasuke walked closer to the White Snake Sage and raised his arm towards it.
The White Snake Sage opened her mouth and her fangs were revealed. She lowered them and then pierced Sasuke's arm with them slightly. She injected a large amount of Natural Energy into his body.
Sasuke winced slightly as he felt all the Natural Energy. His face then turned calm as he took many deep and long breaths.
The Natural Energy settled calmly in his body and he could even feel the Natural Energy around him being absorbed into him at slow rates.
He looked himself over as he felt it. 'So this is what it feels like?' He thought with intrigue.
"Congratulations Sasuke Uchiha. You have passed the test. Not even your teacher Orochimaru has managed such a feat." The White Snake Sage said.
He could hear the actual proudness in her tone.
"So when do I start?" He asked.
"Right away actually. I hope you are ready." She said.
Sasuke nodded. "I am." He responded. With his genius and Dojutsu at the ready, this shouldn't be too hard to learn. He would make sure to learn it as quick as he possibly could because he couldn't afford to be late.
"Then let us begin." The White Snake Sage said.
-The Day of Pain Arrival-
Sasuke was back in his apartment, pacing back in forth.
In the beginning he got his clone's memories. The clone decided it will be easier to notify Tsunade of his training although he didn't say what type, just that he was preparing. She didn't mind and gave him good luck with it.
Right now he was waiting on Naruto, who should arrive at any minute now at his apartment.
His training went splendid and he even surprised the White Snake Sage with his beyond fast progress. He could say he was now a Snake Sage although he still needed some more training to absolutely perfect it.
The only person who knew he was in the Hidden Leaf Village right now was Tsunade as he already sent her a message right before he came.
Knock Knock Knock
He could hear fast knocks on his door and immediately went to open it.
"Just on time Naruto." He said as he let him in.
"I told you I wouldn't be late Sasuke. Now what's the plan?" Naruto asked.
"So first I will send you information about the Pains and Konan via Sharingan." He started.
Naruto nodded. "I'm ready." He said.
He activated his Sharingans and sent the information to Naruto.
"They are very strong and powerful, but I think us two can manage to defeat them." Naruto said seriously.
"Especially with us using Sage Mode. It should help greatly." Sasuke said with a knowing smirk on his face.
"Wait..you know Sage Mode Sasuke??" A surprised Naruto asked him.
He nodded in affirmation. "Snake Sage Mode." He replied.
"That's so awesome! We're like Sage best friends, although snakes and toads hate each other!!" A smiling Naruto shouted.
"Ironic really, but let's get back focused. In order to find out Nagato's location we will need to stab ourself with one of the Black Receivers while we're in Sage Mode." Sasuke said.
"Because the receivers are filled with his Chakra and therefore will retrace it back to his location right?" Naruto asked expectantly.
He nodded. "Indeed, you've finally grown smarter Loser." He said with a smirk.
"Shut up Bastard! I've been smart! Now let's kick these Akatsuki members ass and show them why it was a bad idea to fuck with the Leaf Village!!" Naruto said with a Fox grin.
Sasuke smirked himself. "Right let's." He said and then both disappeared.
-Meanwhile-
"Any differences or changes in the environment?" One Leaf Soldier asked another.
"None as always. It's been perfect lately, real perfect." He responded.
"Alright I'll guess I will start on the next report before it's due." He said, but suddenly stopped.
They all could see an orange-haired man with purple eyes with lines in them. His attire was a cloak that was black and had red clouds on it.
"The Akatsuki?!" The Leaf Soldier yelled as he quickly got on guard.
Pain held one of his black rods and was about to stab the Leaf Soldier with it.
-Chiinngg-
"Mind if I but in??" Sasuke smirked widely as he held the black rod at bay with his Kusanagi.
Pain's eyes widened slightly. "Sasuke Uchiha? Aren't you suppose to be capt-" Pain was interrupted by a hard kick to his face, it launched him far back into the trees.
"Shut the fuck up Pain! You and the other Akatsuki will pay!!" Naruto yelled lividly as he arrived beside Sasuke. His Sage Mode was activated and he had on his red cloak and large scroll on his back.
"Sasuke Uchiha..Naruto?! What is-" The Leaf Soldier was interrupted.
"No time to explain, you all report this to the Hokage. Now." Sasuke said with urgency in his tone. She should already be prepared by now anyways, as he already told her the time of his arrival.
The Leaf Soldiers nodded and quickly used a Shunshin.
"I sense the others coming Sasuke, from above!" Naruto yelled.
Sasuke narrowed his eyes at the other Pains and Konan. He would have to get them away from the Hidden Leaf Village, so he and Naruto can go all out.
This will do.
Sasuke closed his eyes for a second and took a breath in. Purple markings appeared around his eyes. (Similar to Orochimaru or Sage Mode Kabuto.) He then opened his now yellow eyes with a black slit pupil.
"Naruto." He called out.
"On it Sasuke!" Naruto yelled and then he punched the ground hard. Dust, rocks, and debris were blown upwards to obscure the Pains and Konan's vision.
'What are they planning?' Konan thought as she wiped the dust away with her hands. She and the rest then landed.
"This dust is too thick to see." The Animal Path said.
"I'll jus-" Asura Path was interrupted.
"Sage Art: Inorganic Reanimation!" Sasuke yelled as he made a sign.
The Pains and Konan eyes widened as the trees and landscape around them shot at them.
The Preta Path smirked. "I got thi-"
Sasuke secretly smirked and held his hand out.
The Preta Path's eyes widened as his body levitated on its own and he was pulled forcibly in Sasuke and Naruto's direction.
The other Pains couldn't escape the trees and landscape and was forced to retreat backwards. Konan herself transformed into her papers and levitated herself upwards.
"Sage Art: Massive Rasengan!!" Naruto yelled and slammed it right into the Preta Paths body.
After the technique was finished, both could see the Preta Path's body broken and mutilated. He was dead.
"Grab a black rod and stab yourself with it Naruto. I will do the same as well." Sasuke said.
Naruto nodded. He grabbed a black rod and stabbed himself with it, Sasuke followed.
They closed their eyes to get a sense of Nagato's location.
"Gotcha." Naruto said with a smirk as he opened his eyes and Sasuke did the same.
"Let's hurry and destroy the rest of these Pains." Sasuke said and activated his Amaterasu to burn the Preta Path.
"Whoa Sasuke cool move. Where'd you learn it?" An awed Naruto asked as he looked at the black flames.
"I'll tell you after all this is over." He replied and then started to run in the direction of the Pains. Naruto ran alongside him.
-In the Leaf Village-
After getting the message from the Hokage, many Leaf Shinobi stood alert around different sections of the Leaf Village.
Sakura, Team 8, and Team 10 were at the forefront of the village.
"You said Sasuke-kun and Naruto are fighting Akatsuki members Hinata?" Sakura asked her again as she and everyone else looked at Hinata.
Hinata's Byakugans were activated as she looked. "Yes. They already took down one together and made the others retreat." She responded.
Sakura smiled widely. 'Go Sasuke-kun and Naruto! Do us proud!!' She thought as she innerly cheered for them.
"Wait Sasuke's back? Why haven't anyone told us yet Choji??" Shikamaru questioned out.
"Yeah when did Sasuke come back guys?" Choji asked.
"Sasuke-kun recently came back." Ino responded.
"Hm well isn't that interesting." Shikamaru said.
"What are they doing now Hinata?" Kiba asked.
"It looks like they are going to fight the rest of the Akatsuki members." Hinata said.
"I wish we could help, but the Hokage told us to stay within the Leaf." Kiba said.
"Hopefully Sasuke-kun and Naruto will be alright." Ino said worriedly.
-To Sasuke and Naruto-
"Hey Sasuke I don't sense Konan anymore." Naruto said as he continued to run.
"She must be with Nagato, let's hurry up and destroy the rest of these Pains." Sasuke responded.
Both then seen the rest of the Pains and stopped. They were now in a wide field that almost looked barren.
"I'm glad you decided to come to me..Naruto Uzumaki. Now I don't have to hunt you down." The Deva Path said.
"You all are irrelevant. After we destroy all of you, we are coming to you..Nagato." Sasuke said with dangerous narrowed eyes.
The Deva Path's eyes slightly widened. "How do you know about me Sasuke Uchiha? And what makes you so sure you can kill all of my Pains?" He asked.
Sasuke ignored his questions and with more than FTL speed he chopped the Naraka Path's head off.
The other Pains were shocked at his speed and jumped away.
"Summoning jut-" The Animal Path started, but was interrupted by Naruto.
"Oh no you don't! Sage Art: Rasengan Barrage!!" Naruto yelled and slammed the Rasengans in her back.
Her body made a huge crater in the ground from the impact.
"Tch Almighty P-"
"Push." Sasuke smirked as he finished the Deva Path's sentence and the last three remaining Pains were blown back.
Naruto landed beside Sasuke.
"Naruto the last three will be easy to handle. Create a diversion for the Deva Path. Remember the interval time." Sasuke said.
Naruto nodded. "Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu!!" He yelled and a couple Shadow Clones ran around the flanks of the Pains.
The Asura Path took his arm off and revealed the missiles. He shot each one at the clones.
Sasuke infused his Kusanagi with Lightning Chakra, ran to the missiles, and quickly cut them down in rapid succession.
He continued running towards the Asura Path.
"Chidori!" He yelled as he was about to pierce him through his chest.
"Almighty Push!" The Deva Path yelled and the gravity was pushed outward towards Sasuke.
Sasuke flashed his Eternal Rinnegan in a millisecond and he appeared where the Asura Path just was. The Asura Path was hit by the gravity and was blown back. Sasuke quickly activated his Amaterasu and burned his body.
"Sasuke Uchiha. How do you h-"
"Wind Style: Rasenshruiken!!" Naruto threw the attack in the Deva Path's back.
Sasuke smirked. 'Nice one Naruto.' He thought before his eyes then narrowed as he dodged the Human Path's hand.
"How do you have the Rinnegan Sasuke Uchiha?" The Human Path asked.
Sasuke ignored him. "This is the end for you." He said coldly before he appeared in front of the Human Path and slashed upwards.
The Human Path had a pained expression before his body split in two perfect halves. Sasuke activated his Amaterasu again and burned his body.
He saw that Naruto was finished with the Deva Path. They looked at each other before nodding. They then quickly ran towards Nagato's location.
-To the Teams-
Hinata's eyes widened with surprise and shock. "T-they did it..they actually did it!!" She yelled.
"Did what Hinata? What did the two do?" Kiba asked. He and the others looked eagerly and expectant at Hinata.
"The Akatsuki members are dead!" She yelled again.
"I knew they could do it!! Way to go Sasuke-kun and Naruto!!" A ecstatic Sakura yelled.
Shikamaru smirked. "I'll be they actually managed it." He said.
Shino smiled. He knew there was nothing those two couldn't accomplish when working together.
"Great going Sasuke-kun and Naruto!" A smiling Ino yelled.
"That'll teach them for trying to mess with us!" Choji yelled himself.
"Right that's what those bastards get haha!" Kiba laughed out loud.
Hinata deactivated her Byakugans. She could see the two run off, but she knew they were going to handle the real Pain from Hokage Tsunade's message. They would be more than alright.
"Let's report this to the Hokage." She said.
-To Sasuke and Naruto-
Naruto opened up the fake tree bark as he and Sasuke entered Nagato's hidden location.
Konan stood on guard as the two approached.
Now Sasuke figured he could do this a couple ways.
He could kill them both. Take Nagato's Rinnegans and call it a day.
He could kill Nagato, take his Rinnegans, and place a Genjutsu on Konan so she would forget.
But he figured this third way would probably be the best.
"Before you spout your nonsense about pain and peace let me show you both something." Sasuke said.
Nagato, Konan, and even Naruto's eyes were wide with surprise.
"What are you going to show them Sasuke?" Naruto asked curiously.
"..something they will understand." Sasuke said as he looked at both Nagato and Konan. He activated his EMS and showed it to them.
After a few minutes Nagato and Konan looked at Sasuke with empathetic, saddened, and understanding expressions.
Nagato looked at Naruto. "I give you my sincerest apologies Naruto. I know that you might still hate me..and I wouldn't blame you, so do what you wish." He said
"Nagato.." Konan said as her eyes softened as she looked at him.
Naruto was shocked himself, but then his face turned serious. "And what will killing you accomplish Nagato? Nothing..nothing at all." Naruto then pulled out a familiar book to Nagato's surprise.
Sasuke watched the conversation that ensued with interest. What he showed the two was a part of his future that he was glad to be away from. They didn't know it was exactly his future as he made the Genjutsu seem like an alternative. He figured he could still get another Eternal Rinnegan regardless because of the Hashirama cells inside him, but that was thoughts for later.
They finally finished their talk with each other. He could feel a new aura around Nagato and Konan. Almost as if a burden was lifted off their shoulders. They looked..relieved.
"The Leaf Village has the Hidden Rain's support." Nagato smiled a small smile.
"Naruto you can go on ahead. I have to talk with them really quick." Sasuke said.
Naruto nodded and waved as he left.
"Sasuke Uchiha..you are very intriguing." Konan said as she looked at Sasuke with interest.
"I agree. What you showed us..we would remember it for the rest of our lives." Nagato said.
Sasuke nodded. "Indeed. I want to heal you and free you of those black rods." He said.
Nagato's eyebrow raised and Konan looked surprised, not expecting to hear that.
"And how do you plan on doing that?" Nagato asked curiously.
Sasuke smirked as the King of Hell appeared behind him.
Nagato actually chuckled a bit. "That's right. I almost forgot. How do you even have a Rinnegan Sasuke?" He asked.
"It's a secret." Sasuke said as he watched as the King of Hell's long tongue like arm extended from its mouth and grabbed Nagato.
Nagato winced in much pain as he was lifted and it brought him back in its mouth. It began chewing.
After a couple minutes Nagato walked out, looking rejuvenated, healed, and healthier.
"I thank you for your help Sasuke and don't worry, your secret is safe with us." He smiled gratefully and nodded to him.
Sasuke felt arms wrap around him and looked to see Konan surprisingly hugging him tightly.
"I really thank you for your help as well." Konan released him and handed him a paper flower that had a seal on it. "If you ever want to talk or speak with me in person, infuse this flower with Chakra." She gave him a warm smile.
Sasuke didn't expect that, but nodded and grinned back.
"I will take my leave now. Farewell for now. Nagato. Konan." He said and left.
Nagato walked up to Konan. "You seem fond of him." He said.
Konan placed a hand over her chest as she felt the long lost feeling again. She wouldn't mind getting to know him more. "..We all must move on eventually. Let's head back to the Hidden Rain Nagato." She said.
That was something Nagato could agree on. He could admit he felt joy walking on his own two feet again.
.
.
As Sasuke was walking back to the Hidden Leaf Village, his mind started to wonder.
Particularly to the past.
"Now I'm all..alone." Sasuke said emotionlessly as he stared at the dead body of his best friend, Naruto Uzumaki.
His final goal was completed..
But why did he feel so hollow and guilty on the inside?
He was the strongest and most powerful person in the Elemental Nations now..
He had the powers of all the Tailed Beasts
The Yin and Yang Releases
And the most divine Dojutsu
He was basically the Sage of Six Paths himself
And yet none of that mattered because he was al-
Sasuke immediately shook his head as he caught his bearings.
'That was a different me..I'm no longer that person anymore.' He once again reassured himself. He had to constantly remind himself of that fact.
He was grateful and fortunate to have this second chance.
And to think it was proposed to him by the Juubi of all things.
Speaking of the Juubi, the Ten Tails was still in hibernation inside of him and he didn't know when he would actually awaken again. After all before he arrived back in time, the Juubi did tell him that he would be in a deep sleep for a unprecedented amount of time.
He would make sure he thanked him whenever he did awakened.
Anyways, Sasuke could sense everyone waiting for him up ahead.
In the meantime, he will enjoy this temporary peace that they created.
Because peace was always temporary.
"Sasuke-kun! You and Naruto did it!!" Sakura yelled as she was the first to notice him and she eagerly ran his way.
"Hn it was nothing. I'm glad it was handled swiftly and no one got hurt or worse." He replied.
Ino then suddenly ran to his other side. "What do you mean by 'nothing' Sasuke-kun?? That was amazing what you two accomplished!"
"I got to give it to you two, defeating one member of the Akatsuki is no easy feat. You two managed to defeat more than twice that amount and in record time..congrats." Shikamaru said with a celebratory grin.
"Yeah you and Naruto are strong Sasuke! We should definitely spar some time." Kiba said with a suggestive all tooth smile.
"Tch you'll definitely get your ass kicked by either of us Kiba." Naruto taunted with a Fox grin.
"We'll see about that..remember I'm no Akatsuki member." Kiba said as he smartly crossed his arms and held his head up proudly.
"No shit." Sasuke replied with a smirk.
Everyone laughed at that and even Kiba himself laughed.
"Touché." He replied.
"I can't say how much thankful we are of you both for protecting this village and the people of it. We especially thank you Sasuke. If it wasn't for your knowledge and information, we would've never prepared like we did." A grateful Tsunade started as she and Shizune walked forward.
Sasuke nodded to her with a small genuine smile. "I was just doing my job. After all, it was the least I could do."
Tsunade and a couple other Kunoichi found themselves blushing at his smile.
It only made him look more handsome than he was..but she had to let out a cough to get her bearings.
After all she was more than twice his age.
"It was no problem Granny Tsunade! How about we have that celebration now?" Naruto suggested.
"Of course. I'll send out Shinobi right away to work on it. In the meantime, relax and get some rest. You two deserve it." Tsunade responded with a smile.
Sasuke nodded and Naruto grinned and gave her a thumbs up. The two then received cheers from everyone and was even thrown up and down. Naruto of course enjoyed it. Sasuke instead felt awkward but relented nonetheless.
-Cutscene-
'So the Fourth Ninja War is next..well originally it was the Five Kage Summit, but I'm not attacking it this time around..' Sasuke thought as he paced back and forth. 'I still don't know whether I should still kill Danzo or not but hopefully It-'
Sasuke's eyes suddenly widened as he remembered a key factor. Before he could form the sign though, he heard a-
Knock Knock Knock
He extended his senses and felt the Chakras of Suigetsu, Karin, and Jugo. The members of the former Team Taka..well 'Team Hebi' as he didn't make Team Taka this time either.
"Yo Sasuke! You in there?!"
He heard the voice of Suigetsu call out to him.
He was fortunate that he didn't need to take precautionary measures with his Chakra. Something to do with being in this new timeline according to the Juubi. If that wasn't the case, then powerful sensors would've already had him caught.
He walked to his door and then opened it.
"Sasuke-kun! It's you!!" Karin immediately yelled with a wide smile and hugged him.
She expected Sasuke to push her off of him or even chop her head off instantly for the forbidden action.
She definitely didn't expect him to hug her back.
"Karin..it's a pleasure to see all of you." Sasuke said with a slight grin.
It almost made him chuckle as he seen their flabbergasted expressions.
Karin closed her eyes in ecstasy as she enjoyed being so close to him for the first time.
'Ah Sasuke-kunn..' She thought with a warm smile, in her own little world.
Suigetsu waved a hand in front of Sasuke's face.
"Uh are you a clone or something? Because there's no way on the Elemental Nations you're the real Sasuke." He said with dubiety.
"I can also agree with that." Jugo said with a nod.
Sasuke finally released from Karin, eliciting a disappointing groan from her.
"Yeah it's me. Did you all get everything handled with the village?" He questioned.
"Yeah didn't take any time at all actually. Just didn't like the probing." Suigetsu replied.
"They even gave us places to stay Sasuke-kun..I personally suggested staying next to you hehe." Karin giggled.
"Tried to prevent it, but she..insisted." Suigetsu said, remembering how he got stomped on by Karin.
Sasuke grinned at that. He felt nostalgia being with his old group. This felt..nice.
"What about you Jugo, you good?" He asked him.
Jugo nodded. "Yeah it's very peaceful here so far..I feel like it will be a comfortable stay." He said with a smile.
Sasuke remembered something important about Jugo..something that will be supremely useful to him in the future.
"Well I suggest you all tour around the village to get used to it. Jugo you stay behind. I have to have a discussion with you." He said.
"Of course Sasuke." Jugo said.
Suigetsu and Karin were curious but decided not to pry.
"Alright see ya Sasuke." Suigetsu said and waved.
"I'll most definitely be seeing you Sasuke-kun." Karin giggled and also waved.