Hinata: Byakurenden
The Village Hidden in the Dawn
Hinata and Tayuya spun, their surroundings shifting violently. The dry, open air of the desert was gone, replaced by the cold, oppressive atmosphere of a gothic chamber. The walls and high ceilings were made of unyielding metal, their surfaces adorned with ornate, almost alien designs. The faint echo of dripping water punctuated the stillness, and the dim light from scattered torches cast flickering shadows across the room.
At the center of it all sat a figure on a grand, twisted throne. His mismatched Sharingan eyes spun lazily, and his lips curled into a wicked smile as he leaned forward to regard his new captives.
"Welcome to Amegakure," Uchiha Obito said, his voice dripping with dark amusement. "Or, as it is now called, Akatsukigakure no Sato—the Village Hidden in the Dawn."
The weight of his words hung heavily in the room, the chilling realization of their abduction settling in. The battle for Sunagakure was over, but Hinata and Tayuya were about to face a new, far more insidious threat.
Obito looked much the same as Hinata remembered from their previous encounter: the grotesque scars marring one side of his face, a vivid contrast to the sharp, smooth features on the other. Both his mismatched Sharingan burned with power—one his own, the other stolen—and the chakra signatures radiating from them were unsettlingly distinct. His priestly robes, embroidered with golden patterns of flame, only added to the surreal image, making him look more like a zealot prepared to deliver a sermon than a ninja prepared to fight.
"You're wearing that smug grin like I won't wipe it off your face," Tayuya snapped, her voice laced with venom. She took a step forward, glaring daggers at him, but the way her hands clenched into fists betrayed her nerves. Obito had taken them in an instant, pulling them into this metallic prison without effort, and the power in his mismatched eyes made her stomach churn. Still, she refused to show any fear. "You think you're hot shit because of those freaky eyes of yours? Well, newsflash—I've seen better."
Obito's lips curled into a faint smile, as though her defiance amused him. "Bold words for someone so clearly out of her depth," he said smoothly, his tone dripping with condescension. "But you misunderstand. I didn't bring you here to fight, nor to listen to your theatrics." He turned his gaze toward Hinata, his expression softening into something almost paternal.
Hinata didn't flinch under his scrutiny. Her calm, steady gaze met his, and she took a slow, measured breath before speaking. "You've gone to great lengths to bring us here. I assume there's a reason beyond simple conversation," she said, her voice level but firm. Despite her outward calm, she was analyzing everything—his demeanor, his words, even the faint shifts in his chakra. Every detail was filed away, a puzzle piece for later use.
"Ah, the White Lotus speaks," Obito said with a wry smile, leaning forward slightly as though intrigued. "Good. I was beginning to think you might leave all the talking to your… spirited companion." His gaze flicked briefly to Tayuya, dismissive and mocking, before returning to Hinata.
"Why the hell did you bring us here?" Tayuya demanded, her voice rising slightly as she took another step forward. The confidence in her tone was forced, and Hinata could feel the tension radiating off her. Despite her bravado, Tayuya's body was coiled tight, ready to lash out if necessary. She clearly didn't trust Obito's words—or his motives.
"In order to talk, of course," Obito replied smoothly, as though the answer were obvious. He leaned back again, one hand resting lazily on the arm of his chair, the picture of casual indifference. "But talk can only get us so far. There are some truths you can only understand by seeing them with your own eyes. And for that, it had to be here."
"Don't give me that crap," Tayuya snapped, her voice sharp and cutting. "If you wanted to talk, you could've done it somewhere neutral. Hell, you could've just asked. Instead, you kidnap us and drag us to this creepy metal box like some kind of cult leader."
Obito chuckled, the sound low and almost fatherly. "Would you have accepted my invitation if I had asked?" he said, tilting his head slightly.
"I would have," Hinata interjected calmly, surprising both Tayuya and Obito. She stood tall, her hands clasped in front of her, radiating an air of quiet authority. "If you had reached out with sincerity, I would have listened. But this… kidnapping us… only makes me question your intentions."
Obito raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by her answer. "How unexpected," he murmured. "You are far more reasonable than I anticipated. Though I suspect your companion doesn't share your perspective."
"No shit, Sherlock," Tayuya spat, glaring at him. "You think you can just snatch us up and expect us to sit here and play nice? Dream on."
Obito ignored her, his gaze fixed on Hinata. "You have my word," he said solemnly, his tone shifting to one of gravity. "No harm shall come to either of you, so long as you abide by the rules of Amaterasu-sama and this village."
"Like Kabuto did?" Tayuya sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Didn't help him much, did it?"
"Ah, but Kabuto broke the rules," Obito replied, unbothered by her tone. "Amaterasu-sama forbids the Edo Tensei technique. It is a vile and unnatural practice, and she made her stance clear from the beginning. Kabuto knew the consequences of his actions. He gambled and lost."
"How the hell did she even know he did it?" Tayuya demanded, her voice sharp with both frustration and unease. She hadn't heard about Kabuto's use of Edo Tensei until now, though the technique itself was no mystery to her. As one of Orochimaru's subordinates, she had been privy to the concept—an unnatural jutsu that bound the souls of the dead to reanimated corpses, turning them into pawns for the summoner's will. It was meant to be Orochimaru's trump card during the Konoha invasion, though he never got the chance to unveil it. Even back then, the idea of enslaving the dead had unsettled her, but she had buried her discomfort beneath loyalty and duty. Now, hearing that Amaterasu herself found the technique abhorrent, Tayuya couldn't help but wonder how deeply the goddess's disdain for the jutsu ran—and how it had sealed Kabuto's fate.
"She shared her chakra with him and all of us Akatsuki." Obito's voice was calm, almost conversational, as he pointed to his left eye—the one not originally his, yet now burning with divine purpose. "This eye, once foreign, now carries her flames. The first night Amaterasu-sama arrived in this world, she made me her vassal. She imbued me with her power, and through her chakra, she sees all. There is nothing under the sun hidden from her gaze."
His words hung in the air, each syllable deliberate and laden with reverence. The room seemed darker as he spoke, though it might have been Hinata's imagination. Tayuya shifted beside her, arms crossed tightly, as though bracing herself against the weight of his presence. Hinata, however, remained still, her expression calm and unyielding.
"So Kabuto-san's death…" Hinata began, her voice soft but sharp, her Nichiren Byakugan analyzing Obito's chakra flow even as she spoke. "That wasn't you, was it? It was her. She burned him alive."
Obito smiled faintly, his gaze narrowing as he regarded her with a mixture of admiration and condescension. "A sharp deduction," he said. "Yes, the flames that consumed him were hers, cast by her will alone. I told you, didn't I? She sees all. And when dawn broke, her judgment reached him. Kabuto knew the rules—Amaterasu-sama forbids the Edo Tensei technique. It is a violation of the natural order, an affront to her divine will. The moment he used it, his fate was sealed."
"So why was he there?" Hinata pressed, her tone carefully neutral. "From what I saw, Sasori didn't need his help. If anything, Kabuto-san's presence created more chaos than it resolved."
Obito tilted his head slightly, his smile unwavering. "You think I sent him there?" he asked, his voice tinged with mock innocence.
"I think you knew exactly what would happen," Hinata replied, her gaze steady and probing. "You sent him to die."
Obito chuckled softly, shaking his head as though amused by her accusation. "You give me too much credit, White Lotus. Kabuto's ambitions were his own. I merely… allowed events to unfold as they were destined to."
Hinata's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. He was too polished, too prepared, and though his words danced around the truth, they never quite landed on it. She said nothing, filing the information away, but her silence was its own statement—a refusal to play entirely by his rules.
"So, what then?" Tayuya interjected, her voice breaking the charged silence. She stepped forward, her defiance sharp as a blade. "You going to keep us locked in this creepy shrine forever? Or are you planning to do something other than preach at us?"
Obito's gaze flicked to her, and for a moment, his expression was unreadable. Then he smiled again, faintly condescending, as though addressing a particularly unruly child. "Not you," he said simply. "This place isn't for the likes of you, Uzumaki Tayuya. Consider yourself fortunate to even set foot here. Ordinarily, only those who have pledged themselves to Amaterasu-sama are permitted within these walls."
"Yeah? Well, I'm not feeling very lucky," Tayuya snapped, though there was a tremor in her voice that betrayed her nerves. "If this is your idea of hospitality, you can shove it."
Obito ignored her outburst, his focus returning to Hinata. "You, however," he said, his tone softening, "are different. There is something I wish to show you—something you must see for yourself to truly understand."
"And what is that?" Hinata asked, her voice even but her curiosity genuine. Her calm demeanor was unshaken, but the faint glow of her Byakugan betrayed her vigilance. Every moment of this conversation was a game of chess, each move measured and deliberate.
"All in good time," Obito replied, stepping up as if preparing to leave. "For now, consider this room your sanctuary. Rest and prepare yourselves. I will return shortly."
"And when you do?" Hinata pressed, her gaze locked on his.
Obito smiled, the expression maddeningly enigmatic. "Then, White Lotus, you will see the truth."
With that, his Sharingan spun, and his body dissolved into a swirling vortex. The room fell silent, the oppressive weight of his presence lingering even in his absence.
Hinata and Tayuya stood alone in the grand, yet cold and impersonal chamber at the heart of Akatsukigakure, their first moment of quiet since being pulled into this disorienting situation. Obito's confidence in leaving them unsupervised grated on Tayuya's nerves; she couldn't shake the feeling that every wall had eyes, watching their every move. Despite her wariness, she glanced at Hinata and was startled by how calm she appeared. It was as though the chaos and tension of the last hours hadn't touched her at all.
"What are we going to do?" Tayuya asked, her voice low and sharp as she darted around the room, inspecting every corner for hidden mechanisms or traps. She ran her hands along the walls and ceiling, desperate to uncover anything that might give them an edge. Meanwhile, Hinata remained rooted in place, a quiet steadiness radiating from her that stood in stark contrast to her friend's urgency.
"For now, let's remain calm and hear what Obito-san has to say," Hinata replied softly. She wasn't entirely sure why she felt so composed. After facing Kabuto and everything he represented—her clan's desecration, her own buried rage—she had expected to feel turmoil for weeks, if not longer. But here, in this strange new setting, she felt… centered. Perhaps it was because Kabuto was gone, and with him, the weight of her darkest emotions. Or maybe it was something else—something she couldn't quite name yet.
Tayuya paused her frantic search and turned to face Hinata fully, a puzzled expression crossing her face. "You've changed a lot, you know," she said, her voice softer than usual. "You're like… calmer, more confident. It suits you."
Hinata blinked in surprise at the compliment. For a moment, the tension between them faded, and she allowed herself a small, genuine smile. "Thank you, Tayuya-chan. And you've changed, too. You seem… more composed, in your own way."
Tayuya let out a dry laugh, shaking her head as she crossed her arms. "What can I say? Konoha's full of weirdos, and I guess it's rubbing off on me. But don't get too used to me being nice. I'm still me, you know." She smirked, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "And let's not forget—I only ended up with you idiots because it was my mom's dying wish. She told me to find you and stick with you. So, you're stuck with me. And if you're planning on going out in a blaze of glory here, then you'd better believe I'm going with you."
Hinata's smile grew, but there was a flicker of sadness in her gaze. "For now, let's avoid going out in any kind of blaze. I'd much rather survive this and figure out how to stop Amaterasu's influence for good." She hesitated for a moment before adding, "And… I'm glad you're here. Even in all this chaos, I'm glad we can talk like this again."
Tayuya raised an eyebrow, trying to brush off the sentiment, but her expression softened. "Yeah, well, you're the only one who doesn't make me want to strangle them half the time, so I guess I'm glad too." She shifted awkwardly before leaning against the wall, letting out a tired sigh. "Hell, I don't even know what we're supposed to do now. But at least we're in this mess together, huh?"
Hinata nodded, her smile faint but steady. "Together," she agreed.
The two fell into a comfortable silence, their brief exchange rekindling the bond they had built over shared struggle and loss. Despite the looming threat and the uncertainty of their situation, for a moment, they found solace in one another.
Tayuya glanced sideways at Hinata, her smirk returning as she crossed her arms. "We could always just bust out of here and make a mess of things, y'know? Might even be fun."
Hinata shook her head gently, her expression calm but resolute. "Let's wait for now, Tayuya-chan. It's better to stay calm and wait for the right moment. There's no need to make a mess of anything just yet."
"I would appreciate it if you could do that," Obito interjected, his voice cutting smoothly into the conversation as if he had been there all along. He had returned as quickly as he had disappeared, the door now thrown wide open. Natural sunlight spilled into the dim room, the rays bouncing off the metal walls, becoming blindingly bright in an instant and forcing Hinata and Tayuya to squint against the sudden luminescence. "This way, ladies."
Still half-blinded, they stumbled toward his voice, making their way out into the village.
The transformation of Amegakure into Akatsukigakure no Sato—the Village Hidden in the Dawn—was staggering. As Hinata and Tayuya stepped outside, they were immediately struck by the overwhelming presence of light. The once perpetually rain-soaked village now basked under the relentless blaze of the sun, its rays reflecting harshly off every metallic surface. Towering skyscrapers stretched high into the scattered clouds, their surfaces glinting like beacons, turning the village into a dazzling spectacle that bordered on blinding.
The city was no longer shrouded in darkness and gloom; it was exposed, every corner laid bare under the punishing sunlight. The architecture was layered, with interconnected pathways and bridges high above, creating a multi-leveled metropolis. Luxury and squalor coexisted in jarring juxtaposition. The upper levels were pristine, gleaming malls and high-end establishments populated by well-dressed individuals who moved leisurely, their laughter echoing faintly above. In contrast, the lower levels—where Hinata and Tayuya found themselves—were a bustling market district, crowded with vendors calling out to passersby and makeshift stalls made from salvaged materials.
The ground beneath their feet wasn't solid; it was a network of wooden platforms and walkways suspended over a massive, murky lake. The boards creaked and swayed with the gentle rhythm of the water, and Hinata and Tayuya had to quickly adjust to the unstable footing. The water itself seemed unnaturally dark, its depths obscured even to Hinata's Nichiren Byakugan, an eerie abyss that hinted at secrets hidden far below.
The air was alive with sound: vendors haggling, children laughing, and the clamor of countless footsteps on wooden planks. Yet, the atmosphere carried an unnatural weight. The people in the marketplace wore bright smiles, their voices cheerful as they went about their day, but there was a strange uniformity to their joy. Every person exuded the same energy, the same relentless enthusiasm, as if they were performing in unison. It was unsettling. No one looked tired. No one argued. There was no shadow of discontent. It was a picture-perfect village, but one that felt deeply artificial.
Above, on the higher levels, people moved with a detached elegance, seemingly removed from the hustle below. Brightly colored banners fluttered in the hot breeze, displaying symbols of the rising sun—Amaterasu's mark. Below, the lower class worked tirelessly, yet their faces reflected no resentment or exhaustion. They, too, wore the same radiant smiles, bowing or waving enthusiastically.
"Follow me," Obito said calmly, his voice cutting through the ambient noise. He descended the stairs into the shopping district with practiced ease, his robes flowing behind him. Hinata and Tayuya followed, their footsteps hesitant on the swaying planks. As they walked, the people reacted to Obito with reverence. Some bowed deeply; others clasped their hands together in prayer. Elderly villagers approached him with outstretched hands, which he took with a gentle smile, briefly exchanging pleasantries before moving on.
Hinata's eyes roamed the scene, taking in every detail. She couldn't shake the unease gnawing at her. There was something deeply wrong about this village. Everyone seemed so… perfect. Too perfect. Even the smallest imperfections—the grumbling of a vendor over a sale, the quiet weariness of a parent with unruly children—were absent. Every interaction was harmonious, every word filled with warmth. It was unnatural.
"This place is too damn cheery," Tayuya muttered, her tone biting but laced with unease. She crossed her arms and scanned the crowd with suspicion. "It's giving me the creeps. People ain't this happy anywhere."
Hinata nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. "It's… unsettling," she admitted quietly. Her Nichiren Byakugan had revealed the structure of the village earlier, but seeing it with her own eyes confirmed her suspicions. There was an oppressive uniformity to this happiness, a mask that everyone seemed to wear.
"Exactly." Tayuya's voice dropped, her eyes narrowing as she leaned closer to Hinata. "This ain't normal. Feels more like a cult than a village."
Obito turned slightly, as if he had heard their whispers despite the noise around them. "That's a bold accusation," he said, his tone amused rather than offended. He gestured broadly to the villagers, who beamed back at him like flowers turning to the sun. "Do they look unhappy to you? This is a world without grief or strife, a world filled with hope. Isn't that something worth celebrating?"
Hinata's gaze swept over the crowd again, her stomach twisting. "Hope isn't something you can impose," she said, her voice steady but sharp. "It has to come naturally, from within. This… this feels forced."
Obito's smile didn't waver. "The fact that suffering and despair are considered natural is precisely why the world needed a goddess. She has given these people something no mortal could—a life without pain, without sorrow."
Tayuya scoffed. "You mean she gave them a script to follow and called it a miracle."
Obito laughed, a rich, unhurried sound that carried an unsettling charisma. "The cynicism of your world is a tough habit to break, I see. But that's why you're here—to see it for yourselves. And perhaps, to understand."
The sun blazed above them, casting long shadows across the wooden platforms. Hinata squinted upward, the oppressive heat and light pressing down on her like a physical weight. She couldn't deny the village's transformation was remarkable, but the forced perfection and unwavering devotion to Amaterasu filled her with a sense of foreboding. This was a utopia built on lies, and she was determined to uncover the truth.
Hinata broke her temporary silence, her voice cutting through the din of the bustling marketplace. "Where is Amaterasu?" she asked, her tone even, though the weight of her words hung heavily in the air.
The effect was immediate and unsettling.
It was as though a switch had been flipped. All around them, people froze mid-action. Vendors halted mid-sale, children dropped their toys, and even the upper-class citizens strolling along the elevated walkways came to a standstill. Then, like a wave crashing over the city, every single person fell to their knees in unison. Hands raised toward the blazing sun, they chanted her name.
"Amaterasu-sama! Amaterasu-sama!" The cry grew louder, reverberating through the metal buildings and echoing across the layers of the city. The voices weren't uniform in tone or cadence—some wept openly, their tears streaking sunburned faces, while others shouted with fervor, their voices cracking under the strain. The young, the elderly, the wealthy, and the poor—all were united in a display of manic devotion. It was as if every soul in the village was gripped by an overwhelming need to worship, abandoning whatever they were doing just moments before.
Hinata's heart raced as she looked around, her Nichiren Byakugan flaring to observe the spectacle in its entirety. From the lowest level of the market to the highest bridges above, the scene was the same. Workers knelt on the swaying planks, their tools forgotten. Merchants left their stalls unattended. Children cried out her name with voices trembling in awe, and even those in immaculate attire up above discarded their composure, falling to the ground as if driven by an unseen force.
"…What the hell?" Tayuya's voice barely carried over the chant, but the disbelief etched on her face mirrored Hinata's own unease. That single, unheard question struck deeper than all the thousands of cries of devotion combined.
The chant was deafening, a relentless storm of sound that pressed against Hinata's senses, leaving her shaken. These weren't the calculated prayers of a people trying to show loyalty; this was something visceral, raw, and utterly unnatural. There was no hesitation, no reluctance. Every single person gave themselves completely to this moment, and that devotion chilled her to the core.
"As I said before," Obito's voice rose above the din, calm and steady, his smirk never wavering. He turned slightly to face them, gesturing to the masses prostrating themselves in worship. "Seeing is believing. I know it defies what you think of as common sense, but this is the beginning of the new world order I sought."
Obito didn't linger to watch their reaction, instead motioning for them to follow as he led the way toward a nearby building. Hinata and Tayuya exchanged an uneasy glance before moving to follow, weaving through the kneeling figures, their voices still ringing out in unison.
The building they approached was a stark contrast to the rustic market. Its sleek metallic surface gleamed under the sunlight, a testament to technology far more advanced than anything Hinata had seen in the world outside. A metal door slid open with a hiss, revealing a small, enclosed space inside.
"What… is this?" Tayuya whispered, her voice tinged with genuine awe.
Hinata didn't answer, her eyes fixed on the panel of buttons Obito pressed. The doors slid shut, trapping them inside the strange box. She could feel the faint hum of energy around her, an almost alien sensation in a world that largely relied on chakra for advancement.
"This," Obito said, a trace of amusement in his tone, "is an elevator. It'll take us where we need to go."
The contraption began to move, the sensation of rising both unsettling and fascinating. Tayuya gripped the railing instinctively, her expression shifting between curiosity and unease. Hinata remained still, her mind racing as she absorbed the implications of everything she had seen and heard.
The city, the chants, and now this—the blend of devotion and technology—painted a picture of a world reshaped not just by belief but by forces beyond her comprehension. And the deeper they ascended into the heart of Akatsukigakure, the more that foreboding feeling tightened its grip around her.
As the lift began its ascent, the far wall transitioned from steel to glass, offering Hinata and Tayuya a sweeping view of the city. The lower levels of the sprawling metropolis, filled with wooden planks and swaying walkways, gradually receded, giving way to districts of rising affluence. The transformation was striking—what began as a patchwork of poverty and bustling trade gave way to neatly paved roads and polished storefronts, and finally to opulent towers that gleamed under the relentless sun.
All the while, the masses below continued their worship, hands raised to the sky, their cries reverent and unbroken. Regardless of their station—whether ragged traders, modest workers, or the extravagantly dressed elite—every soul in sight seemed bound by the same fervent devotion to the goddess.
Hinata's gaze moved to the skyscrapers themselves, the designs on their exteriors catching her eye. Many were etched with intricate sunburst motifs, the unmistakable face of Amaterasu dominating the structures. Yet not all bore this image. Some displayed carvings of mythological creatures—Oni and Tengu, their twisted faces standing as remnants of an older era. However, even these symbols were being erased; scaffolding clung to these buildings as workers systematically replaced the ancient designs with that of the goddess. It was clear that soon, only Amaterasu's visage would remain.
"Why did you seek out a being like Amaterasu?" Hinata asked, tearing her eyes from the eerie scene outside to focus on Obito. Her tone was measured, almost curious, though there was an edge of unease beneath it. For all her training and preparation, she had never truly understood this man. His cunning had undone so much—he had even outmaneuvered Kali's meticulous strategies. What drove someone like him to this path?
Obito, leaning casually against the back wall of the elevator, raised an eyebrow at her question. He smiled faintly, his posture relaxed, his confidence unshakable. For a fleeting moment, Hinata thought of Naruto—the way he carried himself with a similar blend of assurance and charisma. But as she studied Obito's expression more closely, she felt the resemblance dissolve. Naruto's confidence stemmed from hope, from an unyielding belief in the good of others. Obito's confidence was something else entirely—resignation, perhaps, or certainty born from his rejection of the world's flaws.
"I feel like I shouldn't even have to explain that to you," Obito said, his voice smooth and almost conversational. "This world is hell. People kill and betray one another, clinging to power that will one day slip through their fingers. And for what? Just to be betrayed themselves? Isn't that how your uncle died?"
Hinata stiffened. His words struck a nerve, but it wasn't the pain of the memory that lingered—it was the cold certainty in his tone. This was a man who had given up on the old world entirely. He hadn't just rejected its systems; he had torn them down and replaced them with something entirely his own.
"And you think what you did to Sunagakure is any better?" Tayuya interjected sharply, her voice filled with scorn. She crossed her arms, glaring at him as if daring him to justify himself. "You talk about betrayal and hell, but what do you call burning a village to the ground and leaving its people homeless? What do you call sending Kabuto to his death the moment he failed you?"
Obito didn't flinch at the accusation. If anything, his smile widened slightly, though there was no joy in it. "Transitions aren't always smooth or easy," he replied, his tone cool, almost detached. "And Sunagakure… well, let's just say it was an unfortunate casualty of a necessary war. The old way of the world can't survive. If the leaders of the past refuse to hand over power peacefully, there will be consequences."
"Easy for the guy stealing all the power to say," Tayuya shot back, turning away from him in disgust and staring out at the city.
Obito's expression softened, though his conviction remained firm. "The power isn't mine to take. It all belongs to Amaterasu-sama. Only she can lift us out of this hell we've created. Kaguya left us with a broken world, a fragmented existence filled with suffering. Amaterasu-sama is the one who will fix it."
Hinata frowned, her Nichiren Byakugan faintly flaring as she studied him. His words were calm, but there was a fervor in his eyes that reminded her of Sasori. It was the same obsessive reverence she had seen before—the same willingness to follow blindly in the name of something greater. But this wasn't the puppet master's cold, detached devotion. Obito's belief was warmer, almost infectious.
"Fix it how?" Hinata asked, her voice steady. She didn't lash out or challenge him directly, instead trying to draw him into revealing more.
"With light," Obito answered simply, gesturing to the city around them. "A light that reaches every corner of the world. A light that burns away sorrow, suffering, and doubt. Look at these people—they've been saved, liberated from pain and grief. Isn't that worth fighting for?"
Before Hinata could respond, the elevator came to a smooth halt. The doors slid open, and a gust of wind rushed in, carrying with it the scent of metal and the oppressive heat of the sun. They stepped out onto a grand bridge, the sun's intensity beating down on them even harder this high above the city. Below, the lower levels were hidden behind crisscrossing bridges and buildings, their chanting still faintly audible.
As Hinata took in the surreal scene, her mind raced. Obito's words had given her much to consider, but they had also solidified her resolve. Whatever his intentions, whatever truths he claimed to see, she couldn't shake the feeling that this city, with all its light and devotion, was a shadow of something far darker.
At the other end of the bridge stood a massive temple, rising majestically atop the tallest skyscraper in the city. Unlike the gleaming, metallic structures that defined Amegakure's rebirth, the temple was built entirely of polished wood, its aged timbers radiating an aura of timeless sanctity. Ornate carvings of the sun adorned its high beams, and golden accents shimmered under the unrelenting sunlight, making the entire structure seem alive with celestial energy. This was unmistakably the heart of the city—the place where Amaterasu herself resided.
The bridge leading to the temple was a spectacle in its own right. Stretching high above the lower levels of the city, it was lined with hundreds of monks dressed in simple, flowing robes. Their heads were bowed low, their hands clasped tightly in prayer. Each man and woman knelt on woven mats, their posture unwavering, their devotion palpable. They filled the bridge completely, leaving only a narrow, single path through which Obito now led them. The air hummed with their low chants, creating an otherworldly rhythm that seemed to pulse with the light of the sun.
Their chants grew louder as Hinata and Tayuya passed, though none of the monks raised their eyes to look at them. Their focus was singular, their devotion absolute. Even the gentle wind that swept through the bridge seemed to carry the weight of their faith, rustling their robes as if amplifying their prayers.
Obito moved with purpose, his steps steady and confident. He didn't acknowledge the monks, his gaze fixed on the temple doors ahead. Hinata and Tayuya followed closely behind, their eyes darting between the monks and the temple. Hinata's resolve hardened with each step.
She glanced at Tayuya, catching her companion's eye. Tayuya's usual bravado was tempered now, but she gave a short nod, her lips set in a grim line. Hinata returned the gesture, understanding that they were both bracing themselves for what was to come. If this was truly where they would meet Amaterasu, then it was also where they might make their final stand.
Hinata's heart steadied. The possibility of dying here didn't frighten her. For two years, she had trained, knowing this confrontation might one day come. She had failed to stop Amaterasu once before, and the thought of repeating that failure burned more deeply than the sun's rays above. She would not falter again.
As they approached the temple doors, six figures emerged from the shadows, standing as sentinels before the entrance. They were clad in the familiar black robes of the Akatsuki, their red clouds stark against the dark fabric. Their orange hair caught the sunlight, glinting like fiery halos, but it was their faces that drew Hinata's attention.
Their expressions were eerily calm, almost lifeless, as if they were merely vessels for something far greater. Littered with metal piercings, their skin reflected the light unnaturally, giving them a surreal, almost mechanical appearance. But their eyes were what froze Hinata in her tracks.
The Rinnegan.
Each of the six bore the same eyes that Sasuke had awakened—rippling gray irises with concentric circles that seemed to extend infinitely into their depths. Unlike Sasuke's Rinnegan, which was paired with a Sharingan in his other eye and bore the additional tomoe of his dual bloodlines, these were pure. Both eyes held the full, unfiltered power of the Rinnegan, unadorned and terrifying in their simplicity. They felt cold, impersonal, and absolute, as if they existed solely to enforce the will of the divine.
The six figures said nothing as Obito approached. With a synchronized motion, they stepped forward, each pressing their hands to the immense wooden doors. The air filled with the groan of ancient wood as they pushed, their combined strength barely enough to shift the massive panels. The doors scraped against the stone floor with a sound that echoed across the bridge, sending a shiver through the assembled monks.
The chanting stopped abruptly. The monks, as if controlled by a single mind, raised their heads in unison to glimpse the opening doors. Their wide eyes shone with reverence, their mouths forming silent prayers as they leaned forward, desperate for even the smallest glimpse of the goddess within.
Obito strolled through the widening entrance without hesitation, his pace unbroken. Hinata and Tayuya hurried after him, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on them both. The temple's interior was shrouded in shadows, but Hinata's steps were firm, her hand resting lightly against her chest as she prepared to open the chakra gates if necessary.
Whatever awaited them beyond those doors, she was ready. For her, this wasn't just a meeting—it was the culmination of her destiny.
The chamber was vast, its high ceilings disappearing into shadows despite the golden light spilling from an array of glowing orbs suspended like miniature suns above. The air felt charged, thick with an unseen energy that pressed down on her chest. At the far end of the hall, atop a raised platform that seemed to radiate an almost divine brilliance, sat Amaterasu.
The goddess was breathtaking in a way that defied human comprehension, her beauty alien and otherworldly. She was the embodiment of perfection, yet there was something subtly unsettling about her, as if her very existence was a challenge to everything natural. Her skin, smooth and flawless, held a warm, golden tan that shimmered faintly under the ethereal light. Her long, inky-black hair cascaded over her shoulders like liquid darkness, its glossy strands contrasting sharply with her vibrant crimson kimono.
The kimono itself was a masterpiece, embroidered with intricate patterns of flames that seemed to flicker and dance with every subtle movement. Its deep red fabric clung to her form, accentuating her slender frame, but left room for the illusion of boundless grace and power. The sleeves, impossibly long, framed her delicate hands, their black, claw-like nails glinting as she rested them lightly on the armrests of her throne. The nails were sharp and pristine, reminiscent of a predator in repose.
Her face was flawless, almost unnervingly so. Her lips, painted a deep red, were curved into a serene smile that carried a disarming warmth, as if she were a mother welcoming her children home. Her nose was perfectly symmetrical, her cheekbones high and pronounced, and her expression radiated calm control. Yet, the most arresting feature of her visage was her Gurengan eyes.
They were almost identical to the Byakugan, pale and luminous, but their hue was an otherworldly shade of faint red, like the dying embers of a celestial fire. The concentric circles within those eyes pulsed faintly, as if alive, their depths holding the wisdom of eternity and the promise of annihilation. They fixed on Hinata, sharp and all-encompassing, and for a moment, Hinata felt as though she were standing not before a goddess but before the sun itself, radiant and unforgiving.
"So you've come, Hinata of the White Lotus," Amaterasu greeted, her voice smooth and melodious, each word carrying the weight of divinity. Her tone was calm, almost amicable, as if she were welcoming an old friend. The smile she wore was deceptively warm, like a mother's smile meant to soothe a troubled child, and yet Hinata could feel the immense power behind it, the restraint it took to appear so tranquil.
As Amaterasu began to rise from her throne, her movements were slow and deliberate, imbued with an elegance that felt deliberate, as though each step was measured and calculated. Yet, before she could fully stand, another figure appeared beside her in a blur of motion, moving so quickly that even Hinata's Byakugan struggled to follow.
It was a woman with striking blue hair, styled into a sleek, angular cut that framed her sharp, almost ethereal features. She was dressed in the unmistakable Akatsuki cloak, its black fabric adorned with the signature red clouds that seemed to ripple with a life of their own as she moved. The high collar of the cloak partially obscured her neck, adding to the air of mystery she exuded. Her eyes, a piercing orange, were sharp and calculating, their intensity belying the calm elegance she projected.
Without a word, the woman looped her arm through Amaterasu's, offering support as the goddess rose fully to her feet. The gesture was smooth and practiced, almost reverent, but there was no mistaking the subtle authority in her posture. Even as she aided Amaterasu, her presence was commanding, as though she were not just a follower but a trusted lieutenant in the goddess's grand design.
At first, Hinata thought the assistance unnecessary. Amaterasu's posture was strong, her body exuding the same confidence and grace as before. But then her gaze shifted lower—and everything froze.
Hinata stopped dead in her tracks, her breath caught in her throat, her body trapped as though all the resolve she had summoned moments before had been stripped away. She had thought she was prepared for anything that lay beyond these doors—prepared to face Amaterasu herself—but she had not been prepared for this.
Amaterasu was pregnant.
The red fabric of her kimono, though carefully arranged, could not fully conceal the subtle but unmistakable curve of her belly. It was slight, just enough to be noticeable, but its presence carried an impossible, crushing weight. All the power, all the otherworldly perfection that Amaterasu embodied, was suddenly overshadowed by this single revelation.
Hinata's mind raced, struggling to process what she was seeing. Her lips parted slightly, but no words came. The image of Amaterasu, divine and untouchable, now intertwined with the human concept of motherhood, shook the foundations of everything Hinata had believed about her opponent. She had prepared herself to face a goddess, to stand against raw power and unyielding authority—but this? This was beyond anything she had imagined.
Amaterasu's serene smile remained as she looked at Hinata, as if sensing the turmoil within her. "You seem surprised," the goddess said softly, her voice carrying a knowing edge. "Did you think my plans for this world would stop at mere conquest? Creation, after all, is the highest form of power."
Hinata thought of Kurenai—her teacher, mentor, and friend. Kurenai was also pregnant, her joy shared with her husband, Asuma, as they awaited the birth of their child. When Hinata had learned the news, it had filled her heart with warmth, a light so radiant she could hardly contain it. That life growing inside Kurenai had felt like a blessing, a symbol of hope in a world so often shrouded in despair.
But looking at Amaterasu's swollen form, Hinata felt sick.
The bile rose in her throat, her stomach twisting as though she were betraying some fundamental part of herself by standing there and witnessing it. How could this same miracle of life—a gift that had inspired such joy in her for Kurenai—feel so utterly wrong here? How could she detest the very sight of it? Hinata hated herself for the contradiction, the knot of emotions inside her tying tighter with every passing second.
Amaterasu's beauty only made it worse. She was otherworldly, an alien perfection that defied comprehension. Her pale red Gurengan eyes, glinting like gemstones, carried both power and warmth. Her long black hair fell in cascading waves, shimmering like the night sky itself. The claws of her blackened nails extended from the wide sleeves of her kimono, a subtle menace to her otherwise radiant form. She seemed both divine and unnervingly human, a contradiction in and of herself.
"Oh, let me help you!" Obito said, jogging forward to assist the goddess. He wrapped his arm gently through hers, his scarred face softening as he gazed down at her with a mixture of pride and reverence. Amaterasu smiled back at him warmly, lifting a hand to cup the disfigured side of his face. Her long nails traced idle patterns across his scars, an intimate gesture that made Hinata's chest tighten with unease.
"Thank you, my beloved consort," Amaterasu said, her voice tender and filled with genuine affection. She dismissed the women, addressing her as Konan with a nod, leaving Obito to guide her forward alone.
Hinata felt her heart stop.
"You're the father?" The words escaped her lips before she even realized she had spoken.
"I am," Obito admitted, his voice low and tinged with embarrassment. His mismatched Sharingan gleamed faintly in the light, but his expression was soft, vulnerable even. "I never expected to find love in this world again… but Amaterasu-sama showed me a path I didn't think was possible."
The words twisted something deep in Hinata.
"There is beauty to be found in asymmetry," Amaterasu said, her tone affectionate as she glanced up at Obito. "I repay those who love me unconditionally with love in return. And there is no man more deserving of my affection than the one who not only welcomed me into this world but served as my guide within it."
Obito smiled down at her, his gaze adoring.
It was love. True love. But it was also unsettling in a way Hinata couldn't quite define. There was something off about their bond, something about how easily it existed within this grotesque tableau of devotion. Obito had surrendered himself entirely to her, not just his strength but his soul. And Amaterasu, in her strange, alien way, had reciprocated.
It made sense, and yet it didn't. Hinata had always imagined love to be a sanctuary, something warm and grounding. This love—this thing between Obito and Amaterasu—felt cold, almost clinical, even as it was steeped in passion. It was real, and yet it wasn't.
Hinata's heart ached, not because she pitied Obito, but because she could not fathom what this union meant for their world—or for her mission. Her resolve, once so steadfast, felt like it was cracking under the weight of her confusion. And yet, she couldn't afford to falter. Not now.
No matter how human Amaterasu appeared, no matter how loving she seemed, Hinata reminded herself of the lives already destroyed in her name. Kurenai's joy and Amaterasu's glow could not be the same. One represented hope. The other represented ruin.
Or at least, that's what Hinata had to believe.
Tayuya's voice sliced through the air like a blade, her sharpness breaking the pristine silence that had engulfed the room. "Your consort is a lying scumbag," she declared, her words biting and unapologetic. She took a step forward, her body tense, fists clenched at her sides. "Did you know he's the one who sent Kabuto to try and kill Hinata? You punished Kabuto for using Edo Tensei, but it was your 'beloved consort' who pulled the strings on that whole damn mess."
Her tone was laced with venom, her intention clear. Tayuya was aiming to drive a wedge between the goddess and her consort, to exploit any cracks in their unity. It was a bold move, and one Hinata might have admired if her own mind wasn't still reeling from everything she had just witnessed.
Amaterasu's reaction, however, was nothing like what Tayuya expected.
The goddess tilted her head slightly, her expression softening into something almost… amused. Then, she laughed. It wasn't mocking or cruel, but a gentle, melodious sound that seemed to fill the air of the temple, bouncing off the wooden walls and reverberating like a hymn. For a moment, her presence felt almost ethereal, like sunlight breaking through a storm.
"Unconditional love isn't without its pitfalls," Amaterasu said, her voice light and whimsical, as if she were sharing a private joke with the room. She reached out to place a hand on Obito's arm, her black nails tracing gentle patterns against the fabric of his sleeve. "He fears the White Lotus, as he should. What's more, he fears for me—and for our children."
Tayuya flinched at the word, her composure cracking just slightly.
"Children?" Hinata found herself repeating, her voice barely above a whisper. Another revelation struck her like a tidal wave, threatening to pull her under. Her body stiffened, her breath catching in her throat.
"Yes," Amaterasu said brightly, her hand moving to rest over her rounded stomach. Her expression glowed with pride and an almost maternal warmth that made Hinata's stomach churn. "Just like my childhood friend, Kaguya, we too have been blessed with twins." She paused, a strange light flickering in her pale red Gurengan eyes. "After all, anything Kaguya once had, I too desire. Only then can I understand what she sought in this garden world of hers."
Hinata blinked, her mind struggling to process what she had just heard.
"You wanted children… to understand Kaguya?" she murmured, her voice trembling with disbelief. It wasn't a question so much as a reflexive attempt to make sense of Amaterasu's warped logic.
Amaterasu smiled serenely, her hand gently cradling her stomach. "Kaguya, in all her divine wisdom, sought connection with this world, and her children were part of that journey. They were a reflection of her hopes, her desires, and ultimately, her pain. How can I hope to understand her path without walking it myself?"
The reasoning was so alien, so unfathomable, that Hinata couldn't even bring herself to respond. Her thoughts turned to Kaguya's eventual fate—the betrayal by her own children, Hagoromo and Hamura, who had sealed her away in the moon after her descent into madness. It was a cautionary tale, one that seemed so obvious in its warnings. But Amaterasu didn't see it that way.
To her, it wasn't a cautionary tale at all. It was a blueprint.
Tayuya's lip curled in disgust. "So that's it? You're just using them as tools to play out your twisted little fantasy? You don't actually care about them, do you?"
Amaterasu's expression didn't falter. If anything, it grew even softer, her otherworldly calm unshaken. "Care?" she repeated, as though tasting the word for the first time. "Care is such a mortal concept. My love is not bound by such limitations. It transcends understanding, as does my purpose."
Hinata's hands clenched at her sides. Her resolve was crumbling, her certainty slipping through her fingers like sand. This was no ordinary enemy, no mere villain to be defeated. Amaterasu's existence defied the rules of their world, her every action a challenge to the very fabric of what Hinata believed to be true.
And yet, she couldn't shake the gnawing dread in her heart. Whatever Amaterasu's purpose, whatever her intentions, they were far beyond anything Hinata could comprehend—and far more dangerous than she had ever imagined.
The tension in the air shifted as Hinata voiced her question, the uncertainty in her tone mirroring the war within her. "So, what now?" she asked, her gaze steady but her heart heavy. Amaterasu and Obito had come to a halt just in front of her, their presence overwhelming, yet oddly human in its warmth and proximity. This was not what Hinata had expected—not what she had prepared for. The clarity of her purpose had been shattered, replaced by a fog of conflicting emotions she struggled to navigate.
"First," Amaterasu began, inclining her head slightly, the movement graceful despite the weight of her pregnancy, "allow us to apologize for that unpleasantness in the Sand Village. It was never my intention for such a tragedy to unfold. I regret that we didn't have this opportunity to speak before it came to that."
Hinata blinked, caught off guard by the words. There was no haughtiness or condescension in the goddess's tone, only genuine regret. It was disarming, even confusing, coming from someone she had thought of as the ultimate evil.
"I'm deeply sorry for putting you in that position, Hinata of the White Lotus," Obito added, bowing deeply at the waist, though he still kept one hand gently supporting Amaterasu's arm. His voice was earnest, his demeanor humble, and it struck Hinata that his remorse seemed entirely sincere. If this apology was at Amaterasu's insistence, then Obito had embraced it wholeheartedly. His devotion to her was absolute, and his belief in her was unshakable.
But Tayuya wasn't buying it. She crossed her arms, her expression twisted in skepticism. "That doesn't answer the question," she snapped, her voice sharp enough to cut through the disarming veneer of the apology.
Amaterasu's gaze shifted to Tayuya, her pale red eyes narrowing ever so slightly. It was an almost imperceptible change, but Hinata noticed it immediately. The air around them grew heavier, the temperature climbing just a fraction of a degree—a subtle but undeniable shift that sent a prickle of unease down Hinata's spine.
"Your… vassal could do with some training in manners," Amaterasu said, her tone still calm but carrying a chilling undercurrent. She regarded Tayuya the way one might glance at an insect crawling too close for comfort—not with outright hostility, but with the mild disdain of someone deciding whether or not to crush it.
Tayuya scoffed, oblivious to the danger that was beginning to coil like a serpent in the air around them. "Vassal—? Listen here, you old bi—"
Before the word could escape, Hinata's arm shot out, blocking Tayuya's path and cutting her off mid-sentence. Her movement was smooth but urgent, her body positioned protectively between her friend and the goddess. Tayuya blinked in surprise, startled by the sudden intervention.
"Tayuya-chan is my friend," Hinata said firmly, her voice steady despite the rising dread she felt. "I'm not so great as to have vassals or consorts." Her words were carefully chosen, a subtle apology disguised as humility, and they seemed to do the trick.
The temperature in the room began to cool, the oppressive heat dissipating as quickly as it had come. Amaterasu's expression softened, and the tension in her posture melted away. She tilted her head slightly, as though considering Hinata's words, before offering a faint, almost indulgent smile.
"You underestimate your own worth, Hinata of the White Lotus," Amaterasu said, her tone returning to its serene warmth. "But your humility is noted."
Hinata exhaled quietly, relieved but still wary. She didn't know what might have happened if she hadn't intervened, but the memory of Danzo's sudden incineration lingered in her mind like a warning.
Amaterasu continued, gesturing gracefully to the grand temple around them. "I would like you to stay the day," she said, her smile widening. "Watch what it is I do, and understand the services I perform for these people. All I ask in return is their love and admiration. It is a simple arrangement, is it not?"
Her offer was presented with an air of magnanimity, as though she were granting them the greatest of privileges. But to Hinata, it felt more like a command disguised as an invitation. Still, she nodded, her resolve steady even as the unease in her chest refused to fade.
"Of course," she said, her tone neutral, masking the conflict brewing within her. She cast a quick glance at Tayuya, who rolled her eyes but remained silent, clearly understanding the precariousness of their situation.
As Amaterasu turned to lead them further into the temple, Hinata steeled herself. She didn't know what the goddess planned to show her, but she knew one thing for certain: she couldn't let her guard down—not for a second.
"My apologies, but I must insist that you leave the village by dusk," Obito added quickly, his voice carrying a faint but unmistakable edge of caution. Hinata understood immediately why. Amaterasu's strength, intrinsically tied to the sun, waned during the night. While she was nearly invincible under the glaring rays of day, the absence of sunlight rendered her vulnerable. Obito's concern wasn't misplaced; he was still wary of Hinata and her capabilities.
And he had every reason to be.
Hinata realized this was an opportunity like no other. Here she was, standing within Amaterasu's sanctum, surrounded by worshippers too entranced to intervene, with the goddess herself soon to be at her weakest—pregnant, her power diminished under the cloak of night. This was a fleeting chance to strike at the heart of a god.
And yet, she knew she wouldn't take it.
Even if it was the rational choice, even if it was what her ancestors and Kali herself would have demanded, she couldn't bring herself to kill a pregnant woman. Amaterasu's unborn children were innocent. They had committed no sins, enacted no evils. In her mind, they were not yet part of Amaterasu's plans, and Hinata couldn't bring herself to extinguish those lives.
"I understand," Hinata said softly, lowering her head in a bow. "Please, allow me to observe your duties."
Amaterasu's glowing Gurengan sparkled with something between amusement and approval. "Well spoken. You might well make a great spiritual leader in your own right yet," she said, her words warm but laced with ambiguity. Hinata stiffened slightly. Was that a genuine compliment? Or a subtle manipulation, meant to push her toward a role that would align her with the goddess?
Hinata cast a quick glance at Obito. He didn't react to Amaterasu's words, his focus entirely on assisting her as they walked deeper into the temple. His touch was careful and deliberate, his reverence for her evident in every movement.
The temple interior was breathtaking. Sunlight filtered in through intricately carved windows, casting geometric patterns of light across the smooth wooden floors. The walls were adorned with ornate tapestries depicting celestial motifs: swirling suns, radiant beams of light, and divine figures that seemed to almost glow under the golden light. Incense hung in the air, a heady blend of sandalwood and citrus, mingling with the faint hum of prayers that seemed to echo even within this silent sanctum.
As they approached the throne, Hinata took in the grandeur of its design. The seat was carved from a single massive block of golden wood, polished to a mirror-like shine and adorned with carvings of the sun's rays radiating outward. Its cushions were crimson velvet, embroidered with golden thread in intricate patterns that mirrored the Gurengan's swirling design. The throne was raised on a small dais, giving the impression that Amaterasu was bathed in sunlight even within the dimmer recesses of the temple.
Amaterasu ascended the steps to the dais with measured grace, her hand resting lightly on Obito's arm for support. Her every movement exuded a quiet authority, as though the entire temple itself existed solely for her presence. Once seated, she adjusted the folds of her kimono, ensuring her rounded stomach rested comfortably against the soft fabric. She seemed entirely at ease, her crimson eyes scanning the room with the serene confidence of a ruler who believed her reign absolute.
Amaterasu turned her gaze to Hinata and raised a delicate hand, beckoning her forward with a gentle yet commanding gesture. "Come, Hinata of the White Lotus. Stand by my side."
Hinata hesitated for the briefest of moments, but the weight of Obito's gaze and the quiet expectation in Amaterasu's smile left her little choice. She ascended the dais slowly, her steps careful and deliberate. When she reached the top, she positioned herself to Amaterasu's left, a place that felt both like an honor and a trap.
Obito moved to the goddess's right, his posture straight and protective. He cast a fleeting glance at Hinata, his expression unreadable, before returning his attention to Amaterasu.
Amaterasu, seated regally on her throne, rested one hand over her belly, the other gesturing to the open space of the temple before them. "Today, you will see what it means to bring light into the darkness," she said, her voice calm yet resonant, each word echoing through the hallowed space.
Hinata's resolve hardened. Whatever this was—this display of power, devotion, and control—she would witness it, analyze it, and learn everything she could. If nothing else, she would ensure that she left this temple with the knowledge to fight what Amaterasu represented.
For now, she would stand by her side, but only to better understand her enemy.
Konan approached with her characteristic grace, her Akatsuki cloak trailing behind her as though carried by an unseen wind. Her sharp, calculating gaze flicked toward Tayuya, then Hinata, before finally settling on Amaterasu and Obito. Without a word, she came to stand beside the goddess, bowing deeply as if awaiting her next command.
Amaterasu smiled faintly and gestured toward Tayuya. "Konan, if you would, please guide this spirited one to her destination. Ensure she is treated with respect and care."
Konan inclined her head slightly, her voice soft yet commanding. "As you wish, Amaterasu-sama." She then turned her piercing gaze to Tayuya. "Come with me."
Tayuya blinked, visibly bristling at being ordered around. "And where the hell are you taking me?" she snapped, crossing her arms defiantly.
Konan's expression didn't waver, but her voice carried a sharp edge of authority. "To a place where your mind and soul might find clarity. You might find it beneficial to step away from all… this," she said, gesturing subtly toward the temple and the chanting monks just beyond the doorway.
Tayuya hesitated, looking at Hinata for confirmation. "You okay with this, Hinata? Because I don't trust a damn word out of any of these people's mouths."
Before Hinata could reply, Obito stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "The promise of non-hostility stands. No harm will come to her, I assure you." His mismatched eyes briefly lingered on Hinata, as though testing her resolve. "This is a gesture of trust, one that I hope you will honor in kind."
Hinata hesitated, then gave Tayuya a slight nod. "Go with her. I'll be fine here," she said softly, though her eyes remained fixed on Konan, silently warning her to uphold their word.
Konan stepped closer to Tayuya, lowering her voice as she leaned in to whisper something inaudible. Whatever she said seemed to shift Tayuya's demeanor, the defiance in her eyes giving way to a flicker of curiosity—or perhaps unease.
Tayuya glanced at Hinata one last time before grumbling, "Fine. But if anything happens, I'm coming back to burn this place down."
Konan straightened, her lips curving faintly in what might have been the barest hint of a smile. "I will ensure your safety," she said, her voice calm and even, before gesturing for Tayuya to follow.
As the two women moved toward the doors, the six figures with the Rinnegan pushed them fully open, their combined strength sending the massive wooden panels scraping loudly across the stone floor. The chanting monks outside came into view, their voices swelling into a rhythmic, eerie chorus that echoed into the temple, filling every corner with their devotion.
Tayuya paused at the threshold, shooting Hinata a final glance. "Don't let them mess with your head, all right?"
Hinata offered her a faint smile, her voice steady. "You too."
With that, Tayuya and Konan disappeared beyond the doorway, their figures swallowed by the sea of kneeling monks. The chanting grew louder, a haunting harmony that made the air inside the temple feel heavier, as if the very atmosphere was alive with the fervor of their prayers. Hinata's gaze lingered on the door, her heart uneasy, even as she turned back to face the goddess and her consort.
The pathway was no longer just filled with chanting monks; a line of people now stretched beyond the temple doors, each waiting their turn to approach the goddess. The monks' chanting became a constant backdrop, rhythmic and hypnotic, setting the stage for what Hinata could only describe as a procession of devotion.
The first person in line was beckoned forward by one of the six Rinnegan bearers, his gestures precise and silent. The man—a weathered figure with calloused hands and clothes patched from years of wear—stepped hesitantly into the temple hall. As he crossed the threshold, he immediately fell to his knees, bowing his head so low it nearly touched the floor. His hands trembled as he began to crawl forward on hands and knees, each movement painstakingly deliberate, as though he feared the very act of walking upright might offend the goddess.
"Stop," Obito commanded softly, his voice carrying effortlessly over the monks' chants. The man froze mid-crawl, his body rigid with a mix of reverence and fear.
Amaterasu's voice followed, her tone gentle yet commanding, resonating like a melody that filled the vast hall. "You may speak. What brings you before me today?"
Hinata watched with unease as the man raised his head slightly, though his gaze never dared to meet Amaterasu's. His voice was thick with emotion, trembling as he spoke. "Amaterasu-sama… I come not with grievances, for my life now is free of burden, thanks to your light. I come to express my gratitude, to tell you how you have saved us all."
Amaterasu's expression softened, her pale red eyes glowing faintly, as though the man's words were a source of nourishment. "Please, share your story," she said, her tone warm and inviting.
The man took a shuddering breath before continuing. "I remember the days when this land was drenched in endless rain. Our crops failed, our children starved, and we were but pawns in the wars of the five great nations. They used our land as their battlefield, leaving us with nothing but ash and blood. We had no hope, no future. But then you came, Amaterasu-sama. You banished the rain, brought light to our world, and gave us purpose. Under your guidance, we have found peace, prosperity, and joy. You have saved us from the darkness, and for that, I owe you my life."
As he finished, his voice broke, tears streaming down his face. He lowered himself to the ground, pressing his forehead to the floor in complete submission.
Amaterasu smiled, her glow intensifying ever so slightly, her presence becoming almost oppressive in its warmth. "Thank you for your words," she said, her voice like a lullaby. "Your gratitude humbles me and strengthens my resolve to continue guiding you all toward the dawn. You are a testament to the resilience of humanity, and I am proud to call you one of my children."
The man sobbed openly, repeating "Thank you, Amaterasu-sama," over and over as he crawled backward, leaving the hall with reverent steps. The Rinnegan bearers gestured for the next person in line to step forward, and the process began anew.
Hinata's unease deepened with each passing moment. Her Nichiren Byakugan showed no signs of chakra manipulation or coercion in the man's body, which only made the scene more disturbing. These people were acting of their own free will, their devotion genuine and absolute. Yet, as she observed Amaterasu, she noticed the subtle shifts in her aura. With every word of praise, the goddess seemed to glow brighter, her presence growing more commanding. The air itself seemed to hum with energy, as if the prayers were feeding her somehow.
Obito stood by Amaterasu's side, his posture relaxed yet exuding pride. His mismatched eyes scanned the hall, watching the procession with the air of someone who had orchestrated every detail. When Hinata glanced at him, he met her gaze briefly, his smile calm and confident, as though daring her to deny the perfection of what she was witnessing.
By the time noon arrived, the line had shown no sign of shortening, and the sun shone directly overhead, its rays streaming through the high windows and bathing the temple in golden light. Hinata's stomach churned. She had thought the chanting monks outside were unsettling, but this… this was something else entirely. She felt as though she were standing in the eye of a storm, one that was only growing stronger with every passing moment.