Chapter 34: Time Skip

The morning after the festival, Naruto woke up in his small apartment, the sun's rays streaming through the window. He rubbed his eyes, groggy from the long night of celebration, and slowly got out of bed. The room was cluttered with remnants of the festivities—confetti, a few empty ramen cups, and his scattered belongings.

He stretched and took a deep breath, then began cleaning himself up. As he packed the rest of his things, he paused for a moment to look at the picture of Team 7 on his dresser. His gaze lingered on the image, a mixture of nostalgia and determination in his eyes.

"Time to go," Naruto muttered to himself, grabbing his pack and heading towards the door. He had said his goodbyes the previous night, so there was no need to delay. However, when he opened the door, he was surprised to find Sasuke leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.

"Sasuke? What are you doing here?" Naruto asked, trying to hide his surprise.

Sasuke smirked, pushing off the wall. "Can't let you leave without a proper send off, dobe."

Naruto grinned, a familiar fire lighting up his eyes. "I guess you're here to make sure I don't slack off, huh, teme?"

The two began walking towards the village gates. The morning air was crisp, and the village was just beginning to wake up. They walked in silence for a moment, each lost in their thoughts.

"You know," Sasuke began, breaking the silence, "you better not embarrass us out there."

Naruto shot him a sideways glance. "Oh, come on, like I would do that. If anything, I'm going to make sure everyone knows the strength of Konoha."

Sasuke nodded. "Good. Because if you don't, I'll have to come out there and show you how it's done."

Naruto chuckled. "Yeah, right. You just don't want me to get stronger than you."

Sasuke's smirk returned. "Dream on, Naruto. You'll always be one step behind me."

Naruto stopped walking for a moment, turning to face Sasuke. "You know teme, for all the times we've fought and argued, I've always respected you. You're the closest thing to brother a I ever could ask for."

Sasuke's expression softened, just for a moment. "I know. And that's why I have to be stronger. To protect what's important."

They continued their walk, the village gate eventually coming into view. The guards nodded at them as they passed, acknowledging the two young shinobi.

"So, what are you planning to do while I'm gone?" Naruto asked, adjusting the strap of his pack.

"Train," Sasuke replied simply. "Get stronger. There are a lot of threats, and I need to be ready."

Naruto nodded, understanding. "Yeah, Ero-Sennin is gonna train me. Says there's a lot I need to learn about properly controlling the Kyubi's power."

"Just don't get yourself killed," Sasuke said, his tone serious. "We still have our rivalry, after all."

Naruto grinned. "Wouldn't dream of it."

As they reached the gates, they saw Jiraiya waiting for them, leaning against a post with his usual relaxed demeanor. He straightened up when he saw Naruto and Sasuke approach.

"Ready to go, Naruto?" Jiraiya asked, his voice carrying a note of anticipation.

Naruto turned to Sasuke, extending his fist. "Take care of yourself, teme."

Sasuke bumped his fist against Naruto's, a spark of their shared determination passing between them. "You too, dobe."

With that, Naruto turned to Jiraiya, and they began to converse for a bit. Sasuke watched them for a moment before turning back, his mind already on his next training session.

As they talked, Jiraiya glanced at Naruto. "You two have a strange way of showing you care about each other."

Naruto chuckled. "Yeah, well, that's just how we are. Always pushing each other to be better."

Jiraiya nodded thoughtfully. "It's good to have a rival. Keeps you sharp. Just remember, the journey ahead won't be easy."

"I know," Naruto said, his voice filled with resolve. "But I'm ready. I'll become stronger, and I'll protect everyone."

As they prepared to leave, they were interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Naruto!"

The man who was addressed turned to see Sakura running towards him, her eyes wide with emotion. Jiraiya paused, giving them a moment. "Sakura-chan," Naruto said softly, his heart aching at the sight of her distress.

Sakura stopped in front of him, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. "Naruto, do you really have to go? Can't you stay here with us? With me?"

Naruto's eyes softened. "Sakura-chan, I wish I could stay. But I have to do this. I have to become stronger, to protect everyone I care about. To protect you."

Jiraiya stepped forward, his expression serious. "Sakura, Naruto has to leave the village to train. He needs to master the Kyubi's power and surpass his current limits. If he stays here, he's a target. Out there, he can train safely and become the shinobi he's meant to be."

Sakura's eyes filled with tears, but she blinked them back. "I understand, but it's just so hard to see you go. We've been through so much together."

Naruto's heart ached at the sight of her struggle. He reached out, taking her hand in his. "I know, Sakura-chan. But I promise, I'll come back stronger. For you, and for everyone."

Sakura's resolve wavered, and a tear slipped down her cheek. "Naruto, I just... I want you to be safe."

Naruto squeezed her hand gently. "I will be, Sakura-chan. And I'll come back. I promise."

Jiraiya watched the exchange silently, his eyes reflecting the weight of the decision. He knew this was necessary, but it didn't make it any easier for the young shinobi.

Naruto pulled Sakura into a hug, holding her tightly. "We'll both get stronger, Sakura-chan. We have to."

Sakura buried her face in his shoulder, her voice muffled. "You better, Naruto-kun. You better come back and show me just how strong you've become."

Naruto chuckled softly, a bittersweet sound. "I will. And you'll see. We'll both surprise each other."

As they hugged, the world around them seemed to fade away. It was just the two of them, holding onto each other like their lives depended on it. After what felt like an eternity, Naruto pulled back slightly, sapphire eyes looking into jade eyes.

"Sakura-chan, before I go..." he trailed off, unsure of how to say what he felt.

Sakura looked up at him, her eyes filled with understanding.

Without another word, Naruto leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a tentative kiss. Sakura's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly closed them, leaning into the kiss. It was soft, awkward, and filled with all the emotions they couldn't put into words.

As they pulled away, Sakura's cheeks were flushed, her heart racing. "Naruto-kun..."

Naruto smiled shyly. "I've wanted to do that for a long time."

Sakura's eyes sparkled with a mix of surprise and happiness. "Me too."

Before Naruto could say anything else, Sakura pulled him back, her lips meeting his in a series of slow, tender kisses. Each one was more emotional than the last, filled with the promise of their future. They kissed each other and embraced for over a minute, lost in the moment.

It was nerve-wracking and inexperienced, but neither of them cared. They were together, and that was all that mattered.

Finally, they pulled away, both of them breathless. Naruto's hand lingered on Sakura's cheek, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. "I'll come back, Sakura-chan. I promise."

Sakura nodded, her voice trembling with emotion. "I know you will. And I'll be here, waiting for you."

Naruto smiled, his heart swelling with love and determination. "Thank you, Sakura-chan. For everything."

Jiraiya cleared his throat, stepping forward. "It's time to go, Naruto."

Naruto nodded, his eyes never leaving Sakura's. "Goodbye, Sakura-chan. I'll see you soon."

Sakura watched as Naruto and Jiraiya walked towards the village gates, her heart aching with a mix of sadness and hope. She knew this was necessary, but it didn't make the parting any easier.

As they disappeared from sight, Sakura stood there, her hand pressed to her lips. She could still feel the warmth of Naruto's kiss, the promise of his return. She whispered softly, "Stay safe, Naruto-kun."

Naruto glanced back one last time, his heart filled with resolve. He would come back stronger. He would protect the people he loved. And he would keep his promise to Sakura.

The village slowly came back to life around Sakura, but she remained in that moment, holding onto the memory of their kiss. It was a promise, a hope for the future. And she would hold onto it, no matter what.

As Naruto and Jiraiya made their way out of the village, Naruto couldn't help but think of Sakura. Her touch, her words, and her kiss lingered in his mind, giving him strength. He knew he had to succeed, not just for himself, but for her.

With one last look at the village, Naruto took a deep breath and followed Jiraiya into the unknown.

He was done not being the main character of this story...

Too bad Son Goku was thing.

The actual main character of not just this story but of anime history itself sought Yugao, quickly finding her near the outskirts of the village, where the noise of the village faded into the background.

"Sensei," Goku called out, a hint of sadness in his voice.

Yugao turned to face him, a soft smile on her lips. "Goku, you don't need to call me that anymore. Our team doesn't exist anymore."

Goku scratched his head, looking a bit embarrassed. "It's hard to break old habits, Yugao-nee."

Yugao chuckled, the sound light and warm. "I suppose it is. What's on your mind, Goku?"

He took a deep breath, his carefree demeanor replaced by a rare seriousness. "I've been thinking about what to do next. I feel like I need to find out who I really am, where I come from. I wanna travel the world and learn the truth about myself."

Yugao's expression turned thoughtful. "You've always been different, Goku. Even from the first day I was assigned to cover you as Neko, I knew there was something special about you."

Goku smiled, a flicker of his usual cheer returning. "You've always been there for me, nee-chan. I don't know where I'd be without you."

Yugao placed a hand on his shoulder, her eyes filled with a sisterly affection. "You've grown so much, Goku. You don't need me to guide you at all. You're ready to find your own path."

The Saiyan nodded. "I guess so. But it's still kinda scary, y'know?"

Yugao's smile softened. "It's normal to be scared, Goku. But you have a strength inside you that people can only dream of. You need to learn the truth about yourself, and that journey will make you even stronger."

They stood in silence for a moment, the weight of the conversation settling between them. The moon cast a gentle glow over the village, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Goku finally broke the silence. "What about you, nee-chan? What are you gonna do?"

Yugao's expression became resolute. "I've decided to fully return to the Anbu. There's still work to be done, and I want to protect the village in my own way."

Goku's eyes widened with concern. "But it's super dangerous nowadays."

She nodded, understanding his worry. "It is, but it's what I'm meant to do. Just like you're meant to find your own path."

Goku looked down, his hands clenching into fists. "I just don't wanna lose anyone else."

Yugao lifted his chin, making him meet her gaze. "You won't lose me, Goku. I'll always be your older sister, and I'll always be here when you need me."

Goku's eyes shone with gratitude. "Thank you, nee-chan. That means a lot."

They talked for a while longer, sharing memories and dreams. Yugao recounted the early days of their missions, the challenges they faced, and the bond they formed. Goku listened, feeling a mix of nostalgia and pride for how far they had come.

"You know," Yugao said thoughtfully, "I remember the first time I saw you fight. You were just a kid, but there was a fire in your eyes. You fought with everything you had, and it inspired everyone around you."

Goku laughed lightly. "I was just trying not to mess up."

Yugao shook her head, smiling. "You did more than that. You gave us hope. And you'll keep doing that, wherever you go."

Goku's smile grew wider, his confidence returning. "I'll do my best, nee-chan. I promise."

As the night grew darker, their conversation turned to more personal topics. Goku confided in Yugao about his feelings for Hinata, the way she made him feel like he could do anything. Yugao listened patiently, offering advice and encouragement.

"Follow your heart, Goku," she said gently. "Hinata is a wonderful girl, and she cares about you deeply. Don't let fear hold you back."

Goku nodded, feeling a warmth spread through him. "I won't, Yugao-nee."

Finally, the time came for them to part ways. Goku looked at Yugao, his heart heavy but determined. "I guess this is goodbye for now."

Yugao smiled, pulling him into a hug. "Not goodbye, Goku. Just until next time."

Goku hugged her tightly, feeling a mix of emotions. "Until next time, nee-chan."

With a final wave, Goku took to the sky, his powerful light blue aura lighting up the night. Yugao watched him go, her heart swelling with pride and affection.

"Take care Goku," she whispered. "Find your path and make it your own."

As Goku flew, his mind raced with thoughts of the future. He felt a sense of freedom and excitement, knowing that he was about to embark on a journey that would change his life forever. But amidst all the uncertainty, one thing was clear: he would always carry the love and support of his friends with him.

The journey of self-discovery awaited, and Goku embraced it with open arms.

The Saiyan flew through the night sky with determination, heading straight for Hinata's quarters. The moonlight bathed the village in a soft, silver glow, and the cool breeze rustled the leaves, creating a peaceful atmosphere. .

Goku knocked on the door and stepped inside. As he looked around her home, he noticed something strange—there was no furniture, no decorations, nothing. The place was empty.

"Hinata, what's going on? Why is everything gone?"

Hinata turned to him with a smile, holding a scroll in her hand. "I've sealed everything into scrolls. I'm coming with you."

Goku's eyes widened in surprise. "You're really coming with me? Are you sure about this?"

Hinata hesitated, her gaze dropping to the floor for a moment. "I want to be with you. And…"

Goku could sense the conflict within her. Strong feelings can lead to things being said that weren't fully thought through, and it was clear Hinata was wrestling with her decision. "And what?" he asked gently, stepping closer to her.

The girl took a deep breath, looking up into his eyes. "I have obligations here, to my family, to the village. Leaving everything behind... it's not as simple as it sounds."

Goku nodded, understanding dawning on him. "You're right. It's a big decision. And I know how much you care about your village and your family."

Hinata's eyes softened, and she nodded. "Yes, I do. But the thought of you leaving without me… it's hard to bear."

Goku placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Hinata, I understand. But maybe it's best for you to stay here for now. Tsunade-sama made it clear that I'm the only one allowed to go on this journey. She said it's because I'm... different."

Hinata activated her Byakugan, examining Goku from a non-biased standpoint. She focused on his tailbone and the energy that seemed to fester in that one area. "Goku-kun, it's true. You don't have a chakra network like the rest of us. Your Ki is different. It lights up your entire body."

Goku looked at her curiously. "So, I really am outta this world?"

Hinata nodded, her eyes still glowing even with the Byakugan deactivated again. "Hai, Goku-kun. You really are. And that's why you need to find out who you are and where you come from."

Goku smiled, a sense of peace settling over him. "Thanks, Hinata. I appreciate the confirmation."

Hinata placed both hands on his shoulders, her gaze firm and loving. "Promise me you'll be safe. Come back to me whenever you can. I'll be waiting."

Goku nodded firmly, taking in the beauty before him. Her gentle firmness made his body tingle with excitement. "I promise, Hinata. I'll come back. A lot.".

Not knowing what else to do or say, Hinata cupped the back of Goku's palm-tree haired head and crashed her lips into his in a riveting kiss. Goku's eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly reciprocated, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close. Their kiss deepened, filled with passion and longing.

Goku's heart raced as he felt the warmth of Hinata's soft lips against his. Her hands tangled in his hair, and he held her tighter, not wanting the moment to end. The girl pulled back slightly, her breath coming in short gasps. "Goku... I can't stop kissing you."

Goku chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Me neither, Hinata."

They kissed again, their lips moving in perfect harmony. Each kiss was a promise, a declaration of their feelings for each other. Goku felt a surge of happiness and contentment, knowing that Hinata felt the same way about him.

After what seemed like an eternity, they finally pulled apart, their foreheads resting against each other. Hinata's cheeks were flushed, and her eyes sparkled with love. "Goku, please be careful out there."

Goku smiled, his hand gently cupping her face. "I will, Hinata. Count on it."

Hinata nodded, her fingers brushing against his cheek. "I'll be waiting for you."

With a final, lingering kiss, the Saiyan stepped back, his heart heavy but determined. "I'll be back to train some more soon," he called out, a grin spreading across his face.

Hinata shook her head with a smile. "I'll be here, Son Goku. Just don't take too long."

Piccolo Daimao sat on his newly claimed throne in Kirigakure, the village officially his stronghold. His eyes gleamed with malice as he surveyed the ruins around him, the once-proud Hidden Mist Village now under his dominion. Cymbal had been killed in the area occupied by Son Goku, and his other two children were out in the world hunting down their targets. For now, Kirigakure was his, and he reveled in his power.

Before him stood the last line of resistance: Ao, Chojuro, and Mei Terumi. They were the strongest shinobi left in the village now that Yagura and Utakata had been the first to try and the first to die. Determined to reclaim their home, the trio faced Piccolo with steely resolve.

Mei stepped forward, her eyes blazing with determination. "Piccolo Daimao, your reign of terror ends here. We'll stop you no matter what it takes."

Piccolo smirked, standing from his throne. "Foolish humans. You think you can defeat me? You'll meet the same fate as the others."

With a battle cry, Ao charged first, his Byakugan activated. "Kaimon, Kaimetsu Ken!" His hand struck out with blinding speed, aiming for Piccolo's vital points. The attack hit, but Piccolo didn't even flinch.

Chojuro followed up, wielding Hiramekarei with both hands. "Hiramekarei Unleashing!" The sword's chakra extended, slashing at Piccolo with devastating force. Again, the demon king remained unscathed.

Mei's hands moved in a flurry of seals. "Yōton: Yōkai no Jutsu!" A torrent of lava spewed from her mouth, engulfing Piccolo in molten rock. Yet when the lava cooled, Piccolo emerged unharmed, his grin widening.

"Pathetic," Piccolo sneered. "Is this the best Kiri has to offer?"

Ao leaped back, assessing the situation. "Chojuro, Mei, we need to coordinate. He's not invincible."

Chojuro nodded, his grip on Hiramekarei tightening. "Right. Mei, cover us!"

Mei nodded, preparing another jutsu. "Suiton: Suiryūdan no Jutsu!" A massive dragon made of water surged forward, crashing into Piccolo with immense force.

Using the distraction, Chojuro and Ao moved in tandem. "Kirigakure no Jutsu!" Ao called out, enveloping the battlefield in a dense mist.

Within the cover of mist, Chojuro's voice echoed. "Hiramekarei: Bakuryūgeki!" He swung his sword, unleashing a shockwave of chakra that aimed to destabilize Piccolo.

Ao darted around, utilizing his Byakugan to strike from unexpected angles. "Hakke Rokujūyon Shō!" His strikes were precise, aiming for Piccolo's chakra points to weaken him.

Despite their coordinated efforts, Piccolo stood firm, a dark aura pulsating around him. He then gathered energy into his eyes, cackling as two beams of energy promptly tore through the mist, striking Chojuro and sending him crashing to the ground.

"Chojuro!" Mei screamed, her voice filled with anguish. She unleashed another jutsu in fury. "Futton: Kōmu no Jutsu!" Acidic mist filled the air, corroding everything it touched.

Piccolo merely laughed, his aura protecting him. He flicked his wrist, sending a wave of energy that dissipated Mei's jutsu. "Your efforts are useless," he taunted.

Chojuro struggled to his feet, blood dripping from his mouth. "We can't give up, Mei. For Kirigakure!"

Mei nodded, tears in her eyes. "For Kirigakure!" she echoed, her resolve hardening.

Ao charged again, his Byakugan analyzing Piccolo's movements. "There must be a weakness," he muttered, darting in for another attack.

Piccolo's eyes glowed with malevolence. "Enough of this." He moved with blinding speed, appearing behind Ao. "Demon's Grip!" He clenched his hand around Ao's neck, lifting him off the ground.

Ao gasped, his vision blurring. "N-no...!"

With a sickening crunch, Piccolo crushed Ao's neck, dropping his lifeless body to the ground. Mei and Chojuro's faces twisted in horror and rage.

"You monster!" Mei screamed, launching herself at Piccolo. "Katon: Ryūka no Jutsu!" Flames roared from her mouth, consuming Piccolo.

The Demon King emerged from the flames, unscathed. "Is that all?" He thrust his hand forward, sending a shockwave that blasted Mei off her feet.

Chojuro, with the last of his strength, swung Hiramekarei. "Hiramekarei: Ōgi!" The sword's chakra exploded, sending waves of energy at Piccolo.

Piccolo caught the sword with his bare hand, smirking. "Pathetic." He snapped the blade in half and struck Chojuro with a powerful punch, sending him crashing into the rubble, killed by blunt force trauma upon contact.

Mei struggled to stand, her body trembling. "We can't let him win..."

Piccolo approached her, his smirk never faltering. "You've already lost." He extended his hand. "Devil's Beam!" The ki beam pierced through Mei's chest, ending her life instantly.

As the bodies of Kirigakure's last defenders lay broken, Piccolo returned to his throne, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "This village is mine," he declared, his voice echoing through the empty halls. "And soon, the world will follow."

The throne room fell silent, the remnants of the battle a stark reminder of Piccolo's dominance. Kirigakure, once a powerful village, now lay in ruins, its defenders defeated by the merciless demon king.

From his throne, Piccolo surveyed his new domain, his mind already plotting his next move. "Son Goku, Akatsuki... your days are numbered."

In the aftermath, the village was eerily quiet, the weight of Piccolo's conquest hanging heavy in the air. The people of Kirigakure, those who had survived, knew their lives had changed forever. Under Piccolo's rule, fear and despair reigned supreme.

Even worse than Yagura!

Yet even in the darkest of times, a flicker of hope remained. Somewhere in the world, Son Goku stood ready to face the coming storm.

Not at this point in the story, however.

Later on, Piccolo Daimao stood in the center of Kirigakure, the corpses of Ao, Chojuro, and Mei displayed before the population. The villagers were forced to gather, their faces pale with fear and despair. The once proud Hidden Mist Village was now a scene of chaos and destruction, its spirit crushed under Piccolo's tyrannical rule.

Piccolo's voice boomed through the square, a malevolent grin spreading across his face. "People of Kirigakure, behold the fate of those who dared to oppose me. This is the beginning of my reign. Embrace it, or perish."

The villagers trembled, their hearts heavy with hopelessness. Mothers held their children close, elders whispered prayers, and the young warriors clenched their fists in helpless rage. There was no escape from the demon king's grasp.

Standing beside Piccolo was his attendant, Piano, who watched with a twisted satisfaction. "Father, your power is absolute. None can stand against you."

Piccolo smirked, his eyes glinting with dark amusement. "Indeed, Piano. But to ensure that the Mafuuba can never seal me again, we must eliminate all potential threats."

He raised his hand, and a swirling mass of energy formed before him. From the energy, a new creature emerged, its form tall and sinewy, with piercing red eyes and a cunning expression. Piccolo looked down at his newest creation with approval.

"I name you Snare," Piccolo declared, his voice resonating with authority. "You are to hunt down any powerful Ki users left in the world and eliminate them. The only one you must avoid is Son Goku. I will deal with him personally."

Snare bowed deeply, his eyes gleaming with intelligence and ambition. "Yes, Father. I will carry out your will."

Piccolo's smirk widened. "Good. Do not fail me, Snare."

Without another word, Snare took off, his form disappearing into the shadows. Piccolo watched him go, a sense of satisfaction settling over him. His plans were falling into place perfectly.

Piano turned to Piccolo, his voice filled with admiration. "Father, with Snare's strength and cunning, none will be able to oppose you. Kirigakure is only the beginning."

Piccolo nodded, his eyes narrowing. "Yes, and once the Dragon Balls are active again, I will restore my youth and become truly unstoppable."

The villagers below exchanged fearful glances, their hope dwindling with each passing moment. They could see the flames of their once-proud village reflected in Piccolo's eyes, and they knew that darker days were ahead.

As Piccolo and Piano continued to revel in their victory, a group of surviving shinobi huddled in the shadows, their faces grim. They were the remnants of Kirigakure's resistance, determined to find a way to overthrow the demon king.

"We can't let him continue," one of them whispered, his voice shaking with resolve. "We have to find a way to stop him."

Another shinobi, her eyes burning with defiance, nodded. "We need to get word to the other villages. They need to know what's happened here."

Their leader, a seasoned warrior with scars etched across his face, clenched his fists. "We'll find a way. Kirigakure will not fall so easily."

Back in the village square, Piccolo's laughter echoed through the air, a chilling reminder of his dominance. His ears allowed him to hear everything without confusion. "Let them try," he muttered to himself. "Their efforts will be in vain."

As night fell, the flames of Kirigakure continued to burn, casting eerie shadows over the devastated village. Piccolo Daimao sat back on his throne, his mind already plotting his next move. He inherently knew the Dragon Balls wouldn't be active for a little more than ten months, so he would play the waiting game in the meantime.

"Once my children fulfill the Akatsuki's objectives, I will dispose of them all and use the Dragon Balls to restore my youth," Piccolo mused, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "And then, no one will ever be able to challenge my rule again."

Piano bowed, his loyalty unwavering. "You are invincible, Father. The world will kneel before you."

As Piccolo gazed out over the burning village, his thoughts turned to Son Goku. The boy had proven to be a formidable opponent by killing his chid so easily, but Piccolo was confident in his own power. He would crush Goku and anyone else who stood in his way.

"Enjoy your moments of peace, Son Goku," Piccolo muttered. "For soon, you will face the full wrath of Piccolo Daimao."

As the villagers of Kirigakure mourned their fallen leaders and tried to come to terms with their new reality, Piccolo Daimao's reign of terror loomed large.

For Piccolo Daimao, the conquest of Kirigakure was only the beginning. His ambitions stretched far beyond the borders of the village, and his desire for ultimate power knew no bounds. The world was on the brink of a new era, one that would be defined by the clash between the forces of darkness and the champions of light. And the blurred line between who was who and what is what.

And in the heart of that struggle, the fate of Kirigakure, and really the entire world, would be decided.

In the dimly lit chamber of the Akatsuki hideout, Tobi seethed with anger and frustration. Piccolo Daimao had proven to be more trouble than he was worth. His dimwitted children had killed Yagura and Utakata outright, rendering their bijuu useless for the Akatsuki's plans. It would take approximately three years for the tailed beasts to reform, a significant setback.

Tobi paced the room, his mind racing. "Sabaku no Gaara should've been the first on the list. How could they mess this up so badly?" he muttered to himself, his voice dripping with disdain. "And now we have to wait three years for the bijuu to reform. This is unacceptable."

He stopped, a sudden thought striking him. "Wait, the Dragon Balls are real. Why not wish for the accelerated development of our plans? I could wish for anything I wanted. Anything." A sinister grin spread across his face as he realized the potential. "Fuck Piccolo Daimao. That wish could be used for my own means."

Tobi's mind raced with possibilities. "I could manipulate Son Goku into killing Piccolo himself. Let them eliminate each other, and the winner would be weak enough to be killed off permanently. And then there's Sasuke… I could reveal the truth about the Uchiha massacre and Itachi's sacrifice. Turn him into Konoha's greatest threat."

Tobi chuckled darkly, the plan forming in his mind. "Itachi is too smart for his own good. He needs to be dealt with sooner or later. Maybe I could send him and Kisame after Gaara within a year. Let Sasuke confront his brother and kill him. If he can't finish the job, I'll assist him."

With a laugh at his change of perspective and fortune, Tobi made his decision. He needed to act quickly. "Pein, call a meeting. We need to discuss our plans for the next three years."

In another part of the hideout, Pein's eyes opened, the Rinnegan glowing ominously. "Understood," he replied, his voice echoing through the chamber. He moved swiftly, calling the remaining members of the Akatsuki to convene.

Soon, the holographic projections of the Akatsuki members filled the room. Pein stood at the center, his gaze sweeping over them. "We have a new directive," he began. "Tobi has discovered new information that will change our approach."

Tobi stepped forward, his masked face betraying none of his inner thoughts. "Our plans have been delayed due to the incompetence of Piccolo Daimao's children. Yagura and Utakata are dead, and it will take three years for their bijuu to reform."

The members murmured among themselves, their reactions mixed. Kisame smirked, his shark-like grin widening. "So, what's the new plan, Tobi?"

Tobi's eyes gleamed with a sinister light. "We're going to use the Dragon Balls. With them, we can accelerate our plans and achieve our goals more quickly."

Konan's brow furrowed in concern. "And what about Piccolo Daimao? He's not exactly cooperative."

Tobi's grin widened. "We'll let him think he's in control. But once we've used him to get the Dragon Balls, we'll turn Son Goku against him. They'll eliminate each other, and we'll be rid of both nuisances."

Itachi, his expression unreadable, spoke up. "And what of Sasuke?"

Tobi's eyes narrowed. "Sasuke will be our weapon against Konoha. I'll reveal the truth about the Uchiha massacre and Itachi's role in it. His anger and desire for revenge will make him the perfect tool."

Itachi's eyes darkened, but he remained silent. Kisame's grin widened further. "Sounds like a plan. I'm looking forward to seeing how this plays out."

Pein nodded, his expression serious. "We'll proceed with this plan. Kisame, Itachi, you will go after Gaara in a year. We need to secure the remaining bijuu in the correct order as soon as possible."

Itachi inclined his head, acknowledging the order. Kisame's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "Understood."

As the meeting continued, Tobi's mind was already racing with further schemes. He would manipulate Sasuke into becoming the weapon he needed, and once the Uchiha was unleashed upon Konoha, there would be no turning back. The village would crumble from within, and the Akatsuki's path to domination would be clear.

Once the meeting concluded, Tobi remained in the chamber, his thoughts returning to the Dragon Balls. "I could wish for anything," he mused, a dark smile spreading across his face. "Power, immortality, the realization of my ultimate plan. The possibilities are endless."

His mind wandered to Piccolo Daimao, the supposed ally who had proven to be more trouble than he was worth. 'Piccolo Daimao... you'll get what's coming to you. Son Goku will see to that. And once you're out of the way, nothing will stand in my path.'

In the shadows, Konan watched Tobi with a wary eye. She knew better than to trust him fully, but for now, his plans aligned with their goals. 'We'll see if your schemes come to fruition, Tobi,' she thought, her expression unreadable.

As Tobi exited the chamber, his mind was filled with visions of the future. "It's all within reach," he whispered to himself, his voice echoing in the empty hall.

Outside, the night was dark and silent, the calm before the storm. Tobi's plans were in motion, and soon, the world would feel the full force of the Akatsuki's wrath. As he walked through the shadows, his mind was already three steps ahead, anticipating every move, every possibility. The game was afoot, and Tobi was determined to win. No matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice, he would see his vision realized. And woe to anyone who stood in his way.

Ino stood on the edge of the village, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. Goku was gone, and with him, any hope of exploring her feelings for him. She analyzed her potential romantic options, but none of them seemed right. Naruto and Sasuke were off limits, as was Goku. Kiba and Choji were dead. Neji and Lee left a lot to be desired for different reasons. Kakashi was a grown man twice her age. Iruka was useless. Gaara was a psychopath she hated with all her might. Kankuro was at the bottom of the list. Sakura was taken. Tenten was still irrelevant. Shikamaru was the only one who made sense, but he was her certified brother just like Choji.

The situation was awful, and there was nothing she could do about it right now. Nothing, except train her ass off. And that meant spending time with the next closest think to Son Goku. Rock Lee. So Lee would have to do for now.

She also no longer possessed a gravity room due to Goku's absence, and didn't want to train with Hinata or beg Sasuke and Kakashi to use theirs. The green beasts of Konoha were clearly her best option.

Ino made her way to Team Gai's training grounds, the determined look on her face concealing the turmoil within. As she approached, she heard the sounds of Lee and Gai training incredibly hard inside the gravity room Goku had given them weeks ago.

Taking a deep breath, Ino stepped inside, her body immediately feeling the weight of the increased gravity. The air shimmered with the intense pressure of five times Earth's gravity.

Lee and Gai paused, surprised by her sudden appearance.

"Ino-san!" Lee exclaimed, his eyes wide with surprise. "What are you doing here?"

"I want to train with you guys," Ino said, her voice firm and unwavering. "I need to become stronger."

Gai stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he assessed her. "Training under these conditions is not for the faint-hearted. Are you sure you can handle it?"

Ino nodded, her determination evident. "I'm sure. I'm tired of feeling helpless. I need to do this."

Lee and Gai exchanged a glance before Gai nodded. "Alright, Ino. If you're serious about this, we'll help you. But it won't be easy."

"I didn't expect it to be," Ino replied, a determined glint in her eyes.

Gai smiled, his eyes shining with approval. "Then let's begin. Lee, show Ino the ropes."

Lee nodded eagerly, motioning for Ino to follow him. "First, you need to get used to the gravity. It takes time, but once your body adjusts, you'll feel the benefits."

"Hold on, Lee," she responded, focusing on her breathing and steadying herself as she began to move. "This isn't my first rodeo."

"Oh wow!" Lee replied with energy. "I apologize, I should have expected nothing less!"

As they began training, Ino couldn't help but notice the camaraderie between Lee and Gai. Their bond was evident in every interaction, and it made her long for that same sense of connection. Damn, Hinata really took her man.

Or maybe she was the one trying to take what already belonged to Hinata?

Goku's skill as kisser wasn't very convincing on that front. Maybe he was a player behind the scenes, feigning innocence?

Regardless, she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on her training.

Gai watched her progress, his eyes filled with approval. "You've got spirit, Ino. That's always the first step."

"Thanks Gai-sensei," Ino said, her voice ragged from the exertion. She had taken a break since she last kissed Goku. "I need to become the best version of myself."

Gai nodded. "That's the right attitude. We'll help you get there."

Over the next few days, Ino threw herself into the training with a fervor she had never known before. She pushed her body to its limits, enduring the grueling exercises and intense gravity. Lee and Gai were relentless, but their encouragement kept her going.

One evening, after a particularly intense training session, Ino sat with Lee and Gai, her body aching but her spirit unbroken. "You're doing great, Ino," Lee said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "I've never seen anyone adapt to our style of training so quickly."

Ino smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, Lee. Couldn't have done it without you and Gai-sensei."

Gai nodded approvingly. "You've shown great progress, Ino. Keep it up, and you'll be a massive force to be reckoned with."

As the days turned into weeks, Ino's strength and endurance grew. She felt herself becoming more resilient, her body and mind sharpening under the intense training. She found solace in the routine, a sense of purpose that had been missing since Goku's free agency began.

One afternoon, as they trained under the relentless gravity, Lee approached Ino, his expression serious. "Ino, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, Lee. What's on your mind?" Ino replied, wiping the sweat from her brow.

"Why did you decide to train with us?" Lee asked, his eyes searching hers. "What's driving you?"

Ino paused, considering her words. "I felt lost, Lee. Everything seemed so uncertain, and I needed to find a way to regain control. Training with you and Gai-sensei has given me that sense of purpose."

Lee nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I get it. Sometimes, training is the only thing that makes sense."

Ino smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Lee. "Exactly. And you know what? I'm starting to enjoy it."

Lee's face lit up with a smile. "That's the spirit, Ino! We'll make you the strongest kunoichi in Konoha!"

Gai approached, his eyes shining with approval. "You've come a long way, Ino. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks, Gai-sensei," Ino replied, feeling a warmth in her chest. "I couldn't have done it without you and Lee."

As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the training grounds, Ino felt a sense of peace she hadn't known in a long time.

She knew she still had a long way to go, but for the first time, she felt confident in her path.

Later that night, as Ino lay in her bed, her muscles aching from the day's training, she thought about Goku. She missed him, but she knew that she needed to focus on herself. She needed to become stronger, not just for him, but for herself.

And with that thought, she drifted off to sleep.

Half a year had passed since everybody's paths became more established. Goku had retreated to the top of Mount Paozu, immersing himself in complete isolation. The landscape around him had become a sanctuary of solitude and reflection. Each day, he trained tirelessly, meditated, and connected with the natural world, feeling his power grow steadily. His senses had sharpened, and his ki sensing abilities had expanded to nearly global levels.

Seated cross-legged atop a rocky outcrop, Goku's eyes were closed, his breathing slow and steady. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of birds were the only sounds that accompanied his deep meditation. His mind was a tranquil sea, waves of ki washing over him from every corner of the Earth. He felt the life energy of every living being, from the tiniest insect to the mightiest predator.

The tranquility of his meditation was periodically disturbed by a dark presence he couldn't quite pinpoint. It loomed on the edge of his consciousness, surrounded by lesser but similarly dark ki signatures. Goku's couldn't confirm or deduce who exactly the sinister force he had sensed growing stronger over the past months was, as he not hear word or rumors about it due to having not been in Konoha. The temptation to seek out this evil being and confront it was almost overwhelming, but without a precise location, he knew it would be futile to go on a wild goose chase.

For now, he had other priorities. He needed to understand his origins, and that journey began with retracing his own story. Starting from Mount Paozu, where Grandpa Gohan had raised him, he would seek out Master Roshi once more. Grandpa Gohan had been Roshi's student, and perhaps the old master held the key to Goku's mysterious past.

But to find Master Roshi, Goku needed to increase his range of ki sensing even further. And to do that, he needed to push his power to new heights. His training had already taken him to incredible levels, but he knew there was so much more potential within him, waiting to be unlocked.

Goku stood up, stretching his muscles as he prepared for another intense day of training. He had developed a rigorous routine, balancing his time between physical exercises, meditation, and ki training. He walked over to a nearby clearing, where his Capsule Corp Gravity Room awaited.

Setting the Gravity Room to 70 times Earth's gravity, Goku entered and began his warm-up exercises. Each movement was precise and controlled, his body adapting to the intense gravitational pull. Sweat began to form on his brow as he pushed himself harder and harder, feeling the strain in every muscle.

As he progressed through his routine, Goku decided to push the limits. He increased the gravity to 80 times Earth's gravity, the highest level he could manage before it became too much of a struggle. The weight pressed down on him like a mountain, but he welcomed the challenge. He was hungry to surpass his limits, to reach new heights of power.

With his eyes blindfolded, Goku practiced his ki sensing. He moved through the forest, navigating by the energy signatures of the life around him. He hunted for food, relying solely on his senses to track and capture his prey. He cooked and ate with his eyes covered, trusting in his instincts and ki awareness to guide him.

Each day, he felt his connection to the world grow stronger. He could sense the heartbeat of the forest, the flow of the rivers, and the gentle whisper of the wind. His mind became attuned to the rhythms of nature, and his ki responded in kind, expanding and deepening with each passing day.

Despite his progress, Goku felt a nagging sense of dissatisfaction. He knew he was capable of more, that there were depths to his power he had yet to explore. His mind often wandered back to his childhood, to the stories Grandpa Gohan had told him about Master Roshi and their training together. He hoped that by retracing his steps, he might unlock new understanding of his abilities and his true potential.

One afternoon, as he meditated on a cliff overlooking the valley, Goku felt a familiar ki signature in the distance. It was faint, but unmistakable. Master Roshi. The realization brought a surge of excitement and determination. This was the moment he had been preparing for.

Goku stood up, his eyes shining with purpose. He had spent half a year training and honing his skills, and now it was time to take the next step in his journey. He packed a small bag with essentials, including the few keepsakes he had from Grandpa Gohan, and took a deep breath.

He glanced back at Mount Paozu one last time, feeling a pang of nostalgia. This place had been his home, his refuge, but now it was time to move forward. With a determined smile, Goku launched himself into the sky, flying in the direction of Kame House.

As he soared through the clouds, Goku's mind raced with questions. What would Master Roshi tell him? What secrets about his past would he uncover? He felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension, but above all, he felt ready. Ready to face whatever lay ahead, to uncover the truth about himself, and to become even stronger.

The wind whipped past him as he flew, the landscape below a blur of greens and blues. He focused on Master Roshi's ki, using it as a beacon to guide his path. The journey would take some time, but Goku was in no hurry. He welcomed the opportunity to reflect, to prepare himself mentally and physically for the challenges ahead.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the horizon, Goku decided to stop for the night. He landed in a secluded forest, setting up a small camp. He built a fire and cooked a simple meal, savoring the solitude and the connection to nature he had come to cherish.

After eating, he sat by the fire, staring into the flames. His thoughts drifted to Hinata. He missed her gentle presence, the way she always seemed to know exactly what to say to make him feel better. Her strength and determination had always inspired him, and her unwavering support had been a constant source of comfort. Goku remembered their time together, the way her eyes sparkled when she smiled, and how she made him feel like he was more than just a warrior. He missed her deeply, not just because she was his most precious person, but because she had become an integral part of his life. The thought of seeing her again filled him with a sense of anticipation and joy. That being said, he knew this journey was something he had to do alone. It was a path to self-discovery, to understanding who he truly was.

But as his mind drifted like clouds in the sky, Goku couldn't help but think of Ino as well. He missed her too, though in a different way. Ino's fiery spirit and unfiltered honesty had always been refreshing, and he found himself longing for her company. He had to admit, there was a physical attraction there as well, something he couldn't easily ignore. Ino's boldness and confidence had always intrigued him, and their interactions were often charged with a playful intensity that left him wanting more. While his heart favored Hinata a lot more, a primal, less moral part of him missed Ino's presence, her laughter, and the way she made him feel alive in a different way.

They were both really fun and pleasant to perform kiss training with, too. He hadn't had that type of training since he last set foot in the village over six months ago.

He knew what was right on paper, but he also knew that what was "wrong" could just as easily be written down as right dependent upon how one analyzed the situation.

As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Goku lay back on the grass, his hands behind his head. Despite the loose thoughts regarding the women of interest, he felt a sense of peace, a quiet confidence that he was on the right path. He closed his eyes, letting the sounds of the forest lull him to sleep.

In his dreams, he saw glimpses of his past, fragments of memories that were both familiar and strange. He saw Grandpa Gohan's smiling face, the warmth of his embrace. He saw Master Roshi, his stern yet kind eyes watching over him. He saw Yugao disguised as Neko, being an angel of the shadows.

And he saw a world beyond the stars, a place that called to him with an irresistible pull.

And a man and woman wearing strange armor, the former having hair like his and both of them having tails like he used to...

Strange hallucination, or a genjutsu finally working on him perhaps?

When he woke the next morning, Goku felt refreshed and invigorated. He continued his journey, flying through the sky with renewed determination. Each second brought him closer to Kame House, to the answers he sought.

As he approached the coastline, the familiar shape of Kame House came into view. Goku felt a surge of excitement, his heart pounding in anticipation. He was almost there, almost ready to hopefully uncover some more secrets of his past.