Once they were gone, Sasuke turned his attention to Jugo, who had remained quietly observing the interaction. "Jugo, there's a reason I asked you to stay." Sasuke began, his tone serious.
Jugo nodded, his expression earnest. "I assumed as much, Sasuke. What is it that you need?"
Sasuke paused, considering how to broach the subject. "It's about your abilities—your unique connection to nature chakra. You know how vital it's been in the past."
"Yes." Jugo replied, his voice steady. "My body naturally absorbs natural energy. It's what causes my transformations, but it's also been a curse."
"I understand the risks." Sasuke acknowledged. "But your ability could be pivotal in the coming conflicts. I've learned Snake Sage Mode, but maintaining and gathering natural energy is still a challenge without continuous meditation."
Jugo looked thoughtful. "You're thinking about the war?"
"Exactly. If I could harness natural energy continuously, without needing to remain stationary... it would significantly increase our strategic advantage." Sasuke explained.
Jugo was silent for a moment, then nodded slowly. "I've thought about this before, the potential of my abilities to aid others. If there's a way I can help you control this power, I'm willing."
Sasuke's eyes sharpened, a flicker of relief passing through them. "Your cells, if integrated with another's, could grant them the ability to passively absorb natural energy. It's a theory, at least based on what I've observed from your transformations and my own experiences with different energies."
"You mean a transplant?" Jugo asked, a hint of concern lacing his tone.
"Not exactly a transplant," Sasuke clarified. "More like a sharing of your power. I wouldn't need much—just enough to create a synergy with my own system."
Jugo understood the risks involved, both to himself and to Sasuke. The process they were contemplating was uncharted territory. "There are risks, Sasuke. To both of us. My body has adapted to the curse over years. Your system, even enhanced by the Uchiha lineage and whatever else you've endured, may react unpredictably."
"I'm aware." Sasuke admitted, his voice firm with resolve. "But the benefits could change the course of our fight. And I believe it's a risk worth taking if we proceed with caution."
"If you're sure," Jugo said after a heavy silence, "I'll do it. I trust you, Sasuke. Let's prepare carefully, though. We'll need a controlled environment and perhaps some medical supervision."
"Agreed. I'll arrange for everything. Tsunade should be able to assist, given her medical expertise." Sasuke planned out loud.
"When do you want to start?" Jugo asked, ready to support Sasuke's decision.
"As soon as possible. Every moment counts now," Sasuke responded. "Thank you, Jugo. Your help could be what turns the tide."
Jugo merely nodded, the weight of their decision settling in. "Then let's get ready. For peace, Sasuke."
"For peace." Sasuke echoed, a determined gleam in his eye as they both prepared to take a step into the unknown, hopeful that this new ability would give them the upper hand needed to protect their world.
Sasuke made the arrangements quickly, leveraging his reinstated status within the village to secure a private room at the hospital under Tsunade's oversight. Within a day, they were prepared to begin the procedure, with Tsunade herself expressing both curiosity and concern about the innovative approach they planned to take.
