Time quickly moved to May.
Hayate Gekkō arrived at the experimental base once again. This time, unlike the nervousness he felt during his last visit, he was mostly filled with curiosity.
However, before he could see much, Asuka led him into an operating room, where he lay down on the surgical table. She efficiently prepared the setup, arranged the medical seals, and administered anesthesia.
By the time Shūichi arrived from Tsunade's side, everything was ready.
After a quick inspection, Shūichi nodded. "Let's begin!"
The Transformation Begins!
This time, the goal was to modify the skin on Hayate's upper body to give him the ability to breathe through his skin.
Naturally, this transformation went beyond just the skin; the complexity of the procedure surpassed even that of the gill-breathing system from before.
The process was so intricate that Tsunade came in halfway through to assist.
Despite all their efforts, the surgery began at 9 a.m. and only concluded at 9 p.m. The meal brought by Nono Yakushi had long gone cold by the time they finished.
After waking from the anesthesia, Hayate, now more experienced than during his last surgery, quickly adapted to the new breathing method without Shūichi's prompting.
"Senpai, this feels amazing!" he exclaimed.
"And I feel like this kind of breathing method is especially suited for my Transparent Escape!"
Hayate was both surprised and thrilled.
Shūichi nodded with a smile. "Good to hear."
Then, he asked, "I heard you applied to join the ANBU?"
Hayate nodded. "Yes, Senpai. Genma and the others have improved so much, so I want to join the Root for special training too."
Under Shūichi and Sarutobi Shinnosuke's leadership, Root's reputation had transformed within just a few months. Those who completed training there—or even those who washed out—were all speaking highly of it.
Everyone was saying that skipping the Root training meant giving up the greatest chance to become a jōnin, or even an special jōnin.
Hayate believed it!
So after reaching chūnin rank, he applied immediately, though he still hadn't received a response.
Now that Shūichi was asking about it, he couldn't help but feel a sense of eager anticipation.
Seeing Hayate's expectant expression, Shūichi gave a warm smile. "Since you've applied, you'd better be prepared."
"Root training is extremely harsh."
Those who come out of Root are no ordinary people!
Hayate, still innocent and unaware of the danger, was instantly fired up. "Don't worry, Senpai! I won't let you or the Fourth Hokage down!"
Shūichi patted Hayate's shoulder. "Give it your all!"
"Come on, let's go eat."
…
Within three days, Hayate received his notification to report to Root for special training.
This meant that unless he withdrew during training, was killed in action under Shinnosuke, or voluntarily quit, he was set to join the elite ANBU directly under the Fourth Hokage.
Currently, in Konoha, due to the transitional period between old and new leadership, some of the ANBU were still under Hiruzen Sarutobi's command.
However, this number was gradually decreasing.
With time, former Root members and ANBU personnel were also re-entering Root to undergo Shūichi's training program.
...
Under Tenka's guidance, Hayate Gekkō arrived at Shūichi's office in Root.
However, the one seated there was only a shadow clone of Shūichi.
"Lord Shūichi!" Hayate bowed in greeting, acknowledging Shūichi's rank by altering his form of address without hesitation.
Shūichi nodded slightly with a smile. "Hayate, which area do you intend to focus on developing?"
"Fire Release, Wind Release, Lightning Release, Water Release, Earth Release…or perhaps genjutsu, kenjutsu…?"
This was a question Shūichi posed to everyone entering Root's special training—jōnin included.
Further training to train special or elite jōnin-level fighters required an even greater level of potential, sometimes even power akin to that of a Tailed Beast.
But Shūichi and Minato were cautious. Unlike Danzo, they valued people's lives and didn't engage in reckless experiments.
In fact, Minato believed that Shūichi's curse marks were more reliable and could potentially be applied more widely than Tailed Beast power.
Without any hesitation, Hayate responded, "Lord Shūichi, I choose kenjutsu!"
Root was no longer as secretive as it once was, especially within the training division led by Shūichi. Although the training methods weren't disclosed, everyone knew about the development choice they'd need to make.
Shūichi and Minato had subtly allowed this information to spread, ensuring those joining ANBU would be prepared.
Shūichi wasn't surprised by Hayate's response, but he glanced at his records and noted, "You've already mastered Water Release nature transformation?"
Hayate nodded. "Yes, Lord Shūichi, though I'm still not very proficient."
"As for ninjutsu, I'm actually better suited to genjutsu."
He had a talent for ninjutsu, but his true passion lay in kenjutsu. It was also a way to balance his weaknesses, like his stamina issues.
Kakashi might seem perpetually fatigued, but in reality, his stamina wasn't lacking.
After considering for a moment, Shūichi said, "If you're interested, you might want to continue developing your Water Release."
Not fully grasping the reason, Hayate still replied without hesitation, "Please include Water Release in this training, Lord Shūichi!"
"With my skin-breathing ability, my body can handle a heavier load now."
Looking at the young Hayate, particularly the faint gill marks on his face, Shūichi couldn't help but think of Kisame Hoshigaki.
Creating a Konoha-enhanced version of "Kisame" sounded intriguing.
Hayate was talented, with his only limitation being his constitution. The gill and skin breathing adaptations would ensure his condition wouldn't deteriorate due to lung issues, though his physical strength was still limited.
But with further studies on Hashirama's cells and Asuka's cells, Shūichi felt confident this issue could be resolved and Hayate's physical abilities even enhanced.
And paired with the sword Samehada… now that would be impressive.
"Then, I'll look forward to it!" Shūichi extended his hand, and with a gesture, summoned the giant sword Samehada.
He tossed it to Hayate. "This is one of the Seven Swords of the Mist, known as Samehada. It can absorb others' chakra, including chakra from ninjutsu."
"Whether you can wield it effectively is up to you."
Hayate caught Samehada, his eyes shining with excitement.
He'd heard of the Seven Swords of the Mist, and he already had known one—Executioner's Blade.
"Lord Shūichi, I won't let you down!"
Shūichi smirked. I hope you can handle it.
..
On this day, Hayate Gekkō's three-month special training officially began.
He assumed his kenjutsu training would focus on wielding the great sword Samehada, but he quickly realized he was mistaken.
It was actually dual blades, one long and one short.
The first kenjutsu technique he would train was one he'd already been practicing: the Dance of the Crescent Moon.
To Shūichi's surprise, Hayate's resilience surpassed that of Genma Shiranui and the others, and his talent in ninjutsu was also stronger than Genma's.
Time passed bit by bit.
In a blink, a month had gone by.
In an illusory realm, Shūichi watched Hayate battling an image of Raidō and nodded slightly.
Hayate had completely mastered the Dance of the Crescent Moon.
As for Raidō, he was just an illusion formed from Shūichi's memory, manifested by his chakra.
In pure kenjutsu combat, the two were evenly matched.
Considering that Hayate was nearly five years younger than Raidō—at only twelve years old—this was quite a feat.
As the battle ended and Raidō faded away, Shūichi appeared before Hayate.
"Lord Shūichi!" Hayate greeted him respectfully.
Shūichi nodded slightly. "You've mastered the Dance of the Crescent Moon well. Next, you'll need to focus on timing in battle—something that requires extensive practical experience."
"You're progressing faster than I expected."
Hayate responded with modesty, "It's thanks to your excellent teaching, Lord Shūichi."
"So, is it time to start training in Water Release?"
Shūichi shook his head. "You've already learned Water Release nature transformation; there's no rush for Water Release ninjutsu. You're not quite ready yet."
"Next, you'll focus on Fire Release."
Fire Release?
Hayate was surprised.
It wasn't his natural chakra affinity, so while he could learn it, it would be more difficult compared to Water Release.
In fact, this wasn't part of Shūichi's original plan. Hayate's progress had led him to change his mind.
"The next technique I'll teach you is an advanced form of the Dance of the Crescent Moon, or rather, an ultimate kenjutsu I developed based on it, incorporating Fire Release."
Shūichi explained, "This technique is called the Dance of the Triple Sun!"
With that, he leaped back, unsheathing a katana. Two shadow clones appeared on either side, and their blades were suddenly cloaked in fiery orange flames.
The three Shūichis charged forward, the intense heat warping the air and light. Even though Hayate was familiar with the Dance of the Crescent Moon, he couldn't keep track of their blades, as the heat distorted his vision.
The three Shūichis truly looked like three blazing suns charging toward him.
"Impressive as always, Lord Shūichi…" Hayate marveled, then quickly assumed the stance of the Dance of the Crescent Moon and leaped forward.
Three against three!
Yet only the sound of clashing metal rang out.
One of Hayate's clones had luckily intercepted Shūichi's blade, but that was pure chance.
His true self and the other clone both missed their mark, leaving Shūichi's blade resting against his neck.
Shūichi withdrew his sword and dispelled the clones, explaining, "This technique uses Fire Release to enhance the sword. The stronger the Fire Release, the more powerful the added effect."
"The fire's heat warps light and air, making it harder for enemies to track your movements. Additionally, you can use genjutsu to further disorient your opponent."
"Moreover, there's an advanced version of this technique that combines both Wind and Fire Release. With both chakra types covering the blade, they circulate rapidly along it like flowing water, imbuing the sword with both searing heat and the slicing power of wind."
"Hayate, if you can master the basics of Fire Release and the required chakra form within a month, I'll teach you the secrets of Wind Release as well."
Hayate's eyes widened with excitement, momentarily forgetting to use skin breathing, so he began breathing heavily through his mouth and nose. He then shouted with determination, "Lord Shūichi, I'll definitely complete it!"
A month in the real world would be more than that within the training illusion.
Meanwhile…
At the training grounds outside the Forest of Death…
Shūichi, a bit worn out, wore a satisfied smile.
Finally, he had succeeded!
Around him, the ground was filled with craters of various sizes—all marks left from developing his taijutsu techniques.
He had finally completed the technique for opening the seventh gate.
"It's June now, and with the due date around October, it's about time to deal with Nagato…and Black Zetsu."
With his Star God Curse Mark activated, the fatigue washed away. Shūichi used the Flying Thunder God technique and returned home immediately.
Two days passed in a flash.
After a full recovery, Shūichi arrived at the Hokage's office early in the morning.
His first words upon seeing Minato were, "Sensei, I'm planning to try and capture one of Obito's eyes, and while I'm at it, I'll give Nagato a little warning. He needs to understand he's not yet qualified to go after the Nine-Tails."
Upon hearing Shūichi's plan, Minato Namikaze's expression turned serious. He didn't object, but he asked, "Are you going alone again?"
Shūichi nodded. "Quick and efficient."
"Besides, in a battle at this level, even regular jōnin wouldn't be able to intervene."
"Shisui is still not quite there yet."
Asuka's Adamantine Sealing Chains were powerful, but he didn't want to risk her safety.
Minato thought for a moment and said, "Don't you need someone to contain Obito?"
"Or maybe take Kakashi with you?"
"He's learned the Flying Thunder God Technique to a basic level. Although he can't use it as fluidly for combat yet, he should be able to help you keep Obito occupied."
Shūichi considered it and asked, "But what about Kakashi's commitment with Kushina-san?"
Minato chuckled, "You won't be gone too long. Besides, sending a shadow clone to help Kushina with her sealing studies could work too."
Shūichi smiled and nodded, "Alright, let's do that."
Minato then advised, "No need to rush, Shūichi. You're still very young."
Shūichi understood and readily agreed.
He had no intention of risking his life.
…
Leaving the Hokage's building, Shūichi teleported directly to Minato's home.
He had a Flying Thunder God mark there, so he appeared right beside Kakashi.
"Shūichi, what brings you here?"
Kakashi, wearing his mask, looked surprised.
"There's a special mission for you to come with me," Shūichi replied.
Kakashi was startled. "What mission? But here…"
"I'll leave a shadow clone here," Shūichi assured him. "We'll be back soon."
As he spoke, he created a shadow clone that went off to chat with Kushina.
"Let's go!"
Without further explanation, Shūichi grabbed Kakashi, and they disappeared.
Outside Amegakure in the Land of Rain, inside a cave, Shūichi and Kakashi appeared.
"This is…the Land of Rain!" Kakashi recognized it instantly as he saw the downpour outside.
Shūichi nodded, looking out at Amegakure. "Kushina-san is nearing her due date. During childbirth, her seal will weaken—that'll be the perfect time to target the Nine-Tails."
"And since we're in Konoha… if a fight breaks out in Konoha, the damage will be immense."
"So I need to take preemptive action to deter Nagato and the one controlling Obito from making a move."
Kakashi removed his mask and stepped beside Shūichi. "So, my role is to keep Obito occupied?"
Shūichi nodded. "Sensei should've given you the intel, right?"
Kakashi nodded.
Each time Shūichi had faced Nagato and his group, he'd reported his findings to Minato, including information on the Rinnegan's abilities and the powers of Kamui.
"Obito's eye power is split into two parts, often kept separate. But when he fights me, he fuses them, making his speed even faster."
Shūichi paused, adding, "Enough to somewhat threaten me."
Kamui wasn't much of a threat to him, but taking down Kamui's wielder was no easy feat.
Shūichi then reminded, "Also, be wary of the ultimate genjutsu of the Sharingan, Izanagi."
"This technique can turn any adverse situation into an illusion, reversing death itself."
"The cost is the blindness of the Sharingan used, but Madara Uchiha likely has a stockpile of Sharingan with three tomoe."
"Plus, they can seal jutsu into both eyes beforehand."
Kakashi, alarmed, nodded solemnly. "Got it."
"As for Obito's state right now…" Kakashi began.
Shūichi answered, "He's only partially controlled, so Kakashi, your performance needs to be convincing."
"Remember, in his mind, Rin is dead."
Kakashi nodded.
Shūichi placed a mark on Kakashi's shoulder and said, "Place a mark on me as well."
Kakashi pressed his hand onto Shūichi's shoulder, marking him.
"Let's go!"
The two dashed into the rain together.
…
In a tall tower in Amegakure, a White Zetsu emerged from the ground before Nagato and Konan.
"Shūichi Hoshita is here?"
Nagato asked out of habit.
They'd been fighting regularly for a while now, to the point it felt strange if they didn't clash at least once a month.
Under these circumstances, he'd indeed improved more quickly.
The pressure from Shūichi had been intense.
White Zetsu chuckled. "It's definitely Shūichi Hoshita, but this time he's not alone. He brought Konoha's White Fang's son, Namikaze Minato's other student, Hatake Kakashi."
"Looks like this time it's serious. I've already informed Black Zetsu and the others."
Konan quickly offered, "I'll go hold off Hatake Kakashi!"
Nagato immediately refused. "No need."
Standing up, he continued, "Shūichi Hoshita is strong, but he's not yet capable of defeating the Rinnegan."
"As for Kakashi, I'll leave him to Tobi."
Konan frowned, then asked, "Should we bring the Six Paths?"
Nagato shook his head. "No, save them for the time when we seize the Nine-Tails."
Shūichi was too powerful; even with Black Zetsu and Tobi, they would have difficulty capturing the Nine-Tails without his involvement.
...
In the Northern Mountains of Amegakure
The two sides faced off.
Shūichi and Kakashi vs. Nagato, Obito (with Black Zetsu and White Zetsu), and White Zetsu's Tobi persona.
Activating his Scorch Release Chakra Mode, Shūichi hovered in midair, releasing an immense amount of chakra that formed the imposing figure of the Six-Armed Star God.
This form was familiar to Obito and Black Zetsu, but it was Nagato's first time seeing it.
An intense, high-pitched whirring sound filled the air as four Scorch Release Rasenshuriken formed around Shūichi.
Nagato's eyes narrowed, sensing that this battle was different from their previous encounters.
This time, Shūichi was starting with his most powerful techniques.
Whirrrrr…
The arms of the Star God hurled the Scorch Release Rasenshuriken one after another, each aiming for Nagato, Obito, and White Zetsu Tobi.
"Impressive technique, but it won't work on me!" Tobi remarked in his usual relaxed tone as he activated Kamui, phasing through the Rasenshuriken just before they reached him.
Kakashi watched in surprise. "To be able to warp away such attacks so quickly—it's on par with the Flying Thunder God in terms of speed."
Moreover, Kakashi couldn't discern where Tobi had sent the Rasenshuriken.
Turning his gaze toward Obito, Kakashi noticed that Obito hadn't taken any defensive or evasive actions, letting the Scorch Release Rasenshuriken pass through him harmlessly before they detonated into expanding spheres of light.
"What…?" Kakashi's eyes widened as he saw the Rasenshuriken pass through Obito's body without any effect, only to explode afterward.
His attention then shifted to Nagato.
Shinra Tensei!
Raising his hand, Nagato repelled the first Rasenshuriken and the one covering Obito with an invisible force.
The former was dispersed before it could explode, and the latter was blown away immediately after detonating—leaving Obito entirely unharmed.
Then, under Kakashi's astonished gaze, Nagato reached out and caught the second Rasenshuriken, absorbing it until it disappeared without a trace.
"This ability… can absorb ninjutsu."
"And Obito's power… it nullifies attacks—another time-space jutsu, perhaps?" Kakashi analyzed, frowning at these unfamiliar powers.
Shūichi, hovering above, pretended to frown in confusion as he descended to face Nagato. "The Rinnegan… even able to absorb ninjutsu, impressive. But…"
As he spoke, the ground shook violently. In the eyes of Nagato and the others, a massive stone golem resembling a granite sculpture rose from the earth, cracks forming as molten lava began to flow from within.
The Star God - Lava Giant Golem!
Boom! Boom! Boom!
The ground trembled as the Lava Golem strode forward, its massive fist launching toward Nagato with brutal force.
This was Shūichi's first time unleashing this attack against Nagato.
BOOM!
The ground exploded as Nagato dodged the punch, but he found himself airborne, just as the enormous jaws of a lava dragon—emerging from the Lava Golem—snapped toward him, ready to engulf him in fiery magma.
This golem and the dragon weren't creations of pure chakra; they were formed by controlling the earth through chakra. The Rinnegan couldn't absorb them.
Shinra Tensei!
Nagato unleashed his repulsive force, shattering the dragon's head and using the momentum to evade the Golem's terrifying fist.
On the other side, Kakashi, seeing Shūichi's serious efforts, immediately attacked as well, hurling a kunai toward Obito.
The kunai passed through Obito's body, and at that moment, White Zetsu Tobi emerged from the ground, blocking Kakashi's path. "Your opponent is me!"
But in the next moment, Shūichi appeared beside Kakashi, and almost simultaneously, Kakashi vanished, reappearing behind Obito and grabbing his marked Flying Thunder God kunai.
Zzzzzzz!
With the sound of Chidori, lightning chakra surged through Kakashi's limbs, enveloping him in lightning as he emitted a fierce electric current.
Obito and both Zetsu were caught off guard—none had expected Kakashi to have secretly mastered the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Although his attack speed was slower than Shūichi's or Minato's, it was still highly threatening.
Originally intending to go after Shūichi, Obito immediately shifted to his intangibility to dodge Kakashi's lightning attack.
Beyond Obito, White Zetsu Tobi sensed danger as Shūichi approached, attempting to retreat into the ground.
But Shūichi was already prepared, moving with incredible speed. Before Tobi could fully submerge, Shūichi had grabbed him by the neck.
"I'm done for!" flashed through Tobi's mind.
In the next instant, his mask shattered, and his Sharingan was snatched from its socket.
However, Tobi's body soon disappeared, reappearing hundreds of meters away.
Izanagi!
White Zetsu Tobi had embedded this technique within his Sharingan through a preset sealing technique.
But no sooner had he reappeared than Shūichi shadowed him, grabbing his neck and reaching for his eye once again.
This time, Tobi didn't immediately activate Izanagi's effect. Instead, he chuckled, "You can't steal this eye from me; it's impossible."
Shūichi replied coldly, "Then I'll make it disappear forever."
With those words, he squeezed the life out of White Zetsu Tobi.
White Zetsu Tobi is crushed.
Yet, he resurrects again.
This time, only his head emerges, shouting, "Hey, someone stop him, or this eye will be lost for good!"
Obito, entangled with Kakashi, surges with chakra, manifesting Susanoo's skeletal structure, and punches Kakashi.
Kakashi vanishes, reappearing with Shūichi behind Tobi again, seizing his eye once more.
Obito's Susanoo quickly forms into a complete humanoid shape, conjuring a chakra blade, and slashes down fiercely.
Meanwhile...
On the other side of the battlefield, Nagato charges up, using Shinra Tensei to counter the Lava Giant's fist, shattering it entirely.
But Shūichi's shadow clone remains intact, using countless handseal-free ninjutsu and Flying Thunder God techniques to restrain Nagato.
With the main body dodging Susanoo's attacks using Flying Thunder God, Shūichi creates another clone, activating Sage Mode. Empowered, the clones launch God of Star and Lava Giant once again, pressuring Susanoo.
Kakashi watches the two giants clash, drawing his blade. He leaps in, charging it with electricity, and plunges it into Susanoo's back.
Crack!
Susanoo fractures, and Kakashi channels even more of the Eight-Tails chakra, pushing the White Fang short blade deeper. Alongside Shūichi's attack, Susanoo collapses, its armor shattering.
At this, White Zetsu Tobi begins to panic.
His plan was for Obito to hold off Shūichi and Kakashi, allowing him to use Kamui to retreat into the Kamui dimension.
But now, he's only managed to hide underground.
As long as Shūichi isn't pinned down, he can't safely reappear on the battlefield.
Yet...
Just as White Zetsu Tobi thinks he's safe underground, a powerful force pulls him out.
Earth Release - Opening Earth Rising Excavation!
Shūichi, well-aware of White Zetsu's abilities, had prepared for this.
Knowing that Izanagi's duration would allow Tobi temporary escape underground, he was also aware that Kamui wasn't an option at the moment.
Flying through the air, White Zetsu Tobi laughs wildly, "I guess this is the end, huh?!"
Shūichi's first jutsu isn't Flying Thunder God, though.
It's genjutsu.
Under its effects, Shūichi appears behind White Zetsu Tobi.
Grabbing him by the neck, he takes his eye, destroying the chance for Izanagi.
Meanwhile, Obito, under Black and White Zetsu's guidance, unleashes his full power. Despite the loss of one eye, his Susanoo takes on a full humanoid form, resembling a fearsome tengu with armor.
The power is overwhelming. Though Kakashi unleashes Eight-Tails' power, he's forced to retreat with Flying Thunder God, joining Shūichi's clone in pinning down Nagato.
So far, Nagato has yet to use his trump card.
Obito's Susanoo smashes Shūichi's Star God.
But then, two clones appear—a Star God and a Lava Giant, surrounding Susanoo.
Meanwhile, White Zetsu Tobi's Izanagi had reached its time limit.
As Shūichi launches him skyward, neck held, Sharingan seized, White Zetsu Tobi chuckles bitterly, "Seems this eye's a waste after all."
However, when he attempts to use Izanagi again, nothing happens. Shocked, he stares in disbelief.
"What's going on?" it gasps, "Why isn't Izanagi activating?"
Obito, back on the ground after shattering both giants, glances upward. "Genjutsu?"
Black Zetsu scowls, "That idiot Tobi is under Shūichi's genjutsu, thinking he activated Izanagi when he hasn't."
White Zetsu mutters, "Now that he's lost one eye to Shūichi, it'll be hard to recover it."
Obito replies coldly, "That's your own fault."
"Though losing an eye doesn't stop me from using Susanoo."
"And perhaps he's deliberately weakening us."
His gaze shifts to Nagato.
Seeing Shūichi seize an eye, Nagato's aura shifts as he finally gathers enough chakra, stretching his hands wide.
Shinra Tensei!
A powerful repulsive force erupts.
Shūichi's shadow clone's Star God disintegrates immediately, forcing the clone and Kakashi to use Flying Thunder God to retreat, reappearing beside the airborne Shūichi.
The Scorch Release fades as the clone catches Kakashi, who passes the sealed White Zetsu Tobi to the main Shūichi.
"Leave now, I…" Shūichi begins, but Nagato shouts, "I'll use that move! Take back the eye now!"
As he speaks, he activates Bansho Ten'in, drawing Shūichi's group toward him.
Shūichi summons Star God again, but Obito hurls a chakra blade, piercing it.
Yet in that brief moment, Shūichi's clone and Kakashi vanish with the stolen Sharingan and White Zetsu Tobi.
Snap!
Nagato clasps his hands, lowering his gaze.
"Planetary Devastation!"
But instead of forming a small black sphere, he directly targets the spot where Shūichi's Star God was destroyed.
Boulders from the crumbled Lava Giant shoot skyward, pummeling Shūichi.
"Haaa!"
Nagato roars, his eyes blazing as the land quakes, splitting and collapsing as massive stones rise, slamming into Shūichi to form an enormous stone sphere.
"So, this is the ultimate power of the Rinnegan?"
Watching as the ground and mountains collapsed, converging towards the sky, Uchiha Obito couldn't help but feel alarmed.
Black Zetsu remarked, "This is only a fraction of the Rinnegan's power."
White Zetsu curiously asked, "By the way, do you think this is enough to seal Shūichi?"
Uchiha Obito, sharing the same curiosity, felt a tinge of unease in his heart.
Black Zetsu, though unsure himself, confidently replied, "Even space-time ninjutsu isn't completely unstoppable. If the sealing power of Chibaku Tensei is strong enough, it should render him incapable of escaping."
The Six Paths Chibaku Tensei had even sealed their mother, Kaguya Ōtsutsuki. Naturally, it could nullify the Flying Thunder God technique.
However, much would depend on how fully Nagato could wield the Rinnegan's power.
---
Inside the Chibaku Tensei, Shūichi's expression was a mix of surprise and understanding.
If the Six Paths Chibaku Tensei could seal Kaguya herself, it was unsurprising that it could nullify the Flying Thunder God technique.
"This sealing power is indeed far stronger than the Fire Nether Chains. Even the Flying Thunder God can't break free."
"But… this isn't enough to contain me!"
Nine-Tails Chakra Mode: Activate!
Sage Mode: Activate!
One after the other, the two modes were initiated. Their combined power erupted as Shūichi went all out. Lightning, Wind, Fire, Water, Earth, Magnet, Scorch, Lava—every element and kekkei genkai he possessed exploded outward.
He forcefully shattered the binding power of the Chibaku Tensei.
Next, the Fire Nether Chains whistled out. Enhanced by the two modes, it pierced through the invisible binding force of the Chibaku Tensei, burrowing into the increasingly dense layers of earth and stone.
---
On the ground, Nagato, who had lowered his hands and was slightly panting, suddenly looked up sharply. "He actually broke free…"
Nagato had become increasingly adept at wielding the Rinnegan's power. Previously uncertain about sealing Shūichi, he had grown confident—only to see his ultimate technique shattered so easily.
"Is he hiding his strength as well?" Nagato speculated silently.
Above, the massive sphere of stone in the sky began to crack, fissures spreading across its surface until it shattered into countless fragments. The sealing power disintegrated, and the stones that had been rising fell to the ground with a thunderous crash.
Shūichi, having deactivated his two modes, plummeted from the sky, landing with a loud boom that sent dust billowing into the air.
White Zetsu couldn't help but comment, "It seems the odds of reclaiming that eye have greatly diminished."
"What about Tobi? If he's captured alive, won't our plan be exposed?"
Black Zetsu remained unconcerned. "Tobi only knows part of the plan. Besides, with the Five Great Shinobi Villages in opposition, it won't be easy for them to unite against us."
"They'd never ally unless absolutely necessary. This gives us ample opportunity to pick them off one by one and reclaim the Tailed Beasts. Though the Nine-Tails might prove troublesome."
Uchiha Obito, having withdrawn his Susanoo, replied, "If we've gathered the other eight Tailed Beasts, reviving Uchiha Madara shouldn't be an issue, right?"
Black Zetsu agreed. "That's what I believe as well."
At that moment, Shūichi waved his hand, dispersing the lingering dust. Looking at Nagato, he grinned. "The Rinnegan truly deserves its reputation as the eyes of the Sage of Six Paths. You almost managed to seal me—even the Flying Thunder God technique failed."
"But this level of power… it's still not quite enough."
"Nagato, if this is the best you've got, then I'm afraid you'll struggle to make your mark in the ninja world."
Hearing Shūichi's arrogant words, Nagato's gaze darkened. Deep down, he had already resolved to summon the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path.
Even though the Demonic Statue was an empty shell, it should be enough to protect himself, albeit unlikely to harm Shūichi.
At that moment, Shūichi turned his gaze towards Uchiha Obito, his expression icy. "The techniques left by Madara, a clone created with Hashirama's cells—let me give you some advice: release Obito. Otherwise, things won't end well for you."
Uchiha Obito remained silent. Black Zetsu retorted, "Shūichi, don't overestimate yourself. You can't possibly defeat us."
"Your strength may be unparalleled in the ninja world, but you're just one man."
"Oh? Are you threatening me?" Shūichi's eyes grew colder. "The last person who tried to threaten me was Danzo, and I already took care of him."
"Looks like you need a more profound lesson… The Rinnegan, huh? I think I might be interested in those eyes myself."
As his words fell, Shūichi activated the Eight Gates. A tremendous burst of chakra enveloped him, his entire body shrouded in green light.
White Zetsu immediately warned, "That's Konoha's forbidden taijutsu technique. Even a lowly genin can gain the strength to rival a Kage with it!"
Black Zetsu urged Uchiha Obito, "You mustn't let him seize the Rinnegan!"
"I understand." Uchiha Obito responded calmly, reactivating his Susanoo.
By this time, Shūichi had already opened the Seventh Gate, his body now cloaked in blue light. The sheer scale of his chakra was so overwhelming that even Nagato was left in awe.
"This guy's power… it's completely surpassed mine."
Nagato, who already possessed astonishing chakra reserves, amplified further by Hashirama's cells, found himself astonished by Shūichi's strength.
At this moment, Nagato had no choice but to admit that Shūichi's unleashed power completely surpassed his own.
As Shūichi opened the Seventh Gate, his figure disappeared from sight.
"So fast!"
Nagato turned his head, seeing Shūichi reappear behind Susanoo. "This speed is almost on par with the Flying Thunder God!"
Uchiha Obito and the others were equally stunned by Shūichi's speed.
Before anyone could react, Shūichi had already struck Susanoo from behind with a fierce punch.
Crack!
Boom!
Susanoo shattered under Shūichi's raw power.
"What?!"
Nagato was utterly shocked. He understood Susanoo's strength well.
Under normal circumstances, unless he summoned the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path, he wouldn't be able to overcome it.
But now, it had been destroyed outright!
Uchiha Obito, Black Zetsu, and White Zetsu were equally astonished. Black Zetsu and White Zetsu, in particular, knew some details about the Eight Gates.
Still, Shūichi's display was beyond their comprehension.
Although this wasn't a Perfect Susanoo, this level of power was akin to Uchiha Madara's strength when he battled Hashirama Senju in the past.
This meant that Shūichi's current power rivaled that of Hashirama—the legendary God of Shinobi.
Could a new, younger God of Shinobi be emerging?
Obito, whose Susanoo had been shattered by a single punch, felt a chill run down his spine. Without hesitation, he activated Kamui to phase through the attack.
In that moment, he even forgot about maintaining his spy persona, reacting purely out of self-preservation.
Shūichi's next punch hit nothing but air, leaving a massive crater on the ground.
Banshō Ten'in!
Nagato seized the opportunity to pull Shūichi towards him.
However, in the blink of an eye, Shūichi appeared directly in front of Nagato.
Shinra Tensei!
Nagato unleashed a burst of repulsive force, but Shūichi countered it with a single raised hand. The two invisible forces collided, creating a deafening roar and stirring up waves of earth. Nagato was sent flying backward.
"To think he could block it like that…"
Nagato steadied himself, shocked, only to sense Shūichi's presence behind him.
Shinra Tensei!
Nagato unleashed another repulsion, but Shūichi's punch came down simultaneously.
Boom!
The air seemed to explode as Nagato was sent flying again, tumbling across the ground like a rag doll.
Blood seeped from Nagato's nose and mouth as he stabilized himself, lifting his hands to launch another Shinra Tensei at the approaching Shūichi.
This time, Shūichi responded with a devastating kick. The sheer force compressed the air, creating a razor-sharp vacuum slash.
Rankyaku!
The two forces clashed. The invisible repulsion of Shinra Tensei was sliced apart by the razor-sharp Rankyaku.
The slash hurtled toward Nagato, threatening to cleave him in two. Susanoo reappeared just in time, shielding Nagato with its massive hand.
However, the Rankyaku still managed to sever Susanoo's hand, forcing Nagato to roll aside to avoid the lethal slash. The attack left a deep, bottomless gouge in the ground.
While protecting Nagato, Susanoo counterattacked, slamming a massive fist toward Shūichi.
Boom!
The ground collapsed into a massive crater.
Shūichi easily dodged the attack, stepping into the air and appearing above Susanoo's head. With a swift kick, multiple Rankyaku slashes rained down, shattering Susanoo's head and causing the entire construct to collapse once more.
Obito, again phasing with Kamui, avoided the attack.
At this moment, Nagato distanced himself from the ruined Susanoo. Pressing one hand to the ground, he shouted:
"Gedō Mazō!"
Half of the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path emerged behind Nagato. Unlike before, this time it didn't embed black rods into Nagato's body, thanks to Madara's teachings, which allowed Nagato greater control over the statue.
Roar!
The Demonic Statue roared, breaking its chains as its arms extended toward Shūichi.
"Too slow!"
Shūichi smirked and effortlessly evaded the attack.
He eyed the Demonic Statue with undisguised interest.
"Could I take a piece of this thing for myself?"
The Demonic Statue was the husk of the Ten-Tails, essentially the Shinju itself.
"Naruto's Lava Release Rasenshuriken could cut through the Shinju's main body. My Rankyaku should do the same!"
Leaping into the air, Shūichi prepared to strike.
However, before he could attack, Obito appeared beside Nagato and pulled him into the Kamui dimension.
"Running away?"
Shūichi immediately swung his leg, unleashing a high-speed Rankyaku aimed at the Demonic Statue's arm.
In the next moment, Obito phased himself into the Kamui dimension, and with a puff of smoke, the Demonic Statue disappeared.
But one of its arms remained behind.
The Demonic Statue's arm!
As Shūichi landed, he deactivated the Seventh Gate and activated the Star God Curse Mark to recover.
Clatter!
The Fire Nether Chains shot out, wrapping around and sealing the Demonic Statue's arm.
"What a pleasant surprise!"
Shūichi grinned broadly.
His initial goal had been to seize the Kamui eye and teach Nagato a lesson—just enough to deter him from targeting Konoha and redirect his attention elsewhere.
Unexpectedly, the Demonic Statue had appeared, and he had managed to sever one of its arms.
Licking his lips as he eyed the arm, Shūichi was tempted.
What a maniac!
Suppressing his desire, Shūichi took out a sealing scroll from his pack. Using a smaller secondary scroll, he sealed the Demonic Statue's arm inside.
With that done, Shūichi tucked the scroll away, turned toward Amegakure, and disappeared from sight.
---
In the Rain Village, atop the high tower, Konan gazed northward, monitoring the situation. While she couldn't see clearly, she could infer the general outcome based on the commotion.
As the noise subsided, Konan frowned slightly. "Is it over?"
"Even using that technique... did they manage to deal with the enemy?"
Although Shūichi had displayed incredible abilities, she found it hard to believe that Nagato, with the power of the Rinnegan, could lose. Especially since Nagato's strength had been steadily increasing, along with his mastery of the Rinnegan, growing stronger with each passing day.
"Were you waiting for me?"
Suddenly, a voice came from behind her.
Konan's body stiffened as she immediately leaped into the air, turning mid-flight. Paper wings unfolded, keeping her afloat. "Who's there?"
Suspended in the air, Shūichi stood with his Scorch Release Chakra Mode activated. Fire Nether Chains surged forth, effortlessly binding the struggling Konan.
"You... where is Nagato?"
Konan's expression changed drastically as she stared at Shūichi.
Shūichi gently pulled Konan down to the tower and deactivated his Scorch Release Chakra Mode. Standing before her, he looked down at the woman who was only five or six years older than him.
"Relax, Nagato isn't dead yet."
Konan secretly breathed a sigh of relief but gritted her teeth. "What do you want?"
Shūichi grabbed her chin, locking eyes with her. "You know, we're technically former comrades. Unfortunately, fate has set us on different paths."
"To be honest, I admire you all greatly and sympathize with your experiences."
Konan scoffed coldly. "Don't try to manipulate me with words to make me betray Nagato."
Shūichi released her chin, laughing softly. "You're mistaken."
"The reason I'm here today isn't to kill you or make you betray Nagato or extract information from you."
"Honestly, I already know far more than you do."
"The Rinnegan, Madara Uchiha... and even Black Zetsu."
Konan frowned. "What are you talking about?"
Shūichi said calmly, "You've been collaborating with Uchiha Madara to use his power for your plans, haven't you?"
"Unfortunately, you don't realize that everything you're doing is within Madara's calculations."
"The death of Yahiko? Danzō and Hanzō were the culprits, but Madara also played a part. All the members of Akatsuki who fell were killed by people under Madara's influence."
"Of course, this is all in the past now."
Konan fell silent, then asked, "Why didn't you mention this intelligence the last time?"
Shūichi smiled. "You didn't ask."
"Out of camaraderie, let me give you one more critical piece of information: Nagato's Rinnegan isn't his."
Konan's eyes widened. "Impossible!"
"That's absolutely impossible!"
"He already had those eyes when I met him!"
Shūichi said lightly, "Perhaps Madara told you that Nagato has Uzumaki and Senju bloodlines, making him a descendant of the Sage of Six Paths."
"More precisely, a descendant of Asura, the Sage's younger son."
Konan was stunned. "You... How do you know this? Is it because of the Senju clan?"
Shūichi didn't answer directly but continued. "Madara might have also mentioned the stone tablet left behind by the Sage of Six Paths that the Uchiha clan guards, right?"
"But I'm certain he didn't tell you that the contents of that tablet were tampered with."
"The Rinnegan... Hah. How could it manifest without first awakening the Mangekyō Sharingan?"
This statement was a mix of truth and lies, but it left Konan's mind in chaos. "This... How is that possible?"
Shūichi explained further, "You know I'm a highly skilled medical ninja, don't you? I've conducted extensive research on Hashirama cells and Sharingan as well."
"When Madara fought the First Hokage, Hashirama, he faked his death and escaped. During that battle, he obtained a piece of Hashirama's flesh and grafted it onto himself."
"The Uchiha are descendants of Indra, the Sage's elder son, and the Senju are descendants of Asura. When these two powers merged, the Rinnegan awakened."
Konan's pupils shrank. "This kind of thing... You..."
Shūichi said flatly, "Konoha has been researching Hashirama cells and the Sharingan for years. Danzō himself had both implanted and was defeated by me."
"As harsh as it sounds, Nagato's Rinnegan belongs to Madara, which is why Nagato can't fully control its power."
Konan was thoroughly shaken. "If that's true, why would Madara give the Rinnegan to Nagato?"
Shūichi replied, "Nagato has met Madara, hasn't he? You've seen his frail state—completely dependent on the clone bodies cultivated from Hashirama's cells."
"Awakening the Rinnegan is far more difficult than awakening the Mangekyō Sharingan. By the time Madara obtained the Rinnegan, he was already old."
"So, your plan likely includes a step to resurrect Madara, doesn't it?"
"And that's why the Rinnegan ended up with Nagato. Additionally, Nagato's Uzumaki and Senju heritage made his body capable of bearing its power."
Konan struggled to believe it, but deep down, she felt the logic aligned too well.
Shūichi's voice turned cold. "Nagato is nothing more than a pawn to Madara—a tool for his resurrection."
"You know about the person Black Zetsu and White Zetsu are controlling, right? That Uchiha, my former friend—Uchiha Obito. The Mangekyō Sharingan he possesses awakened due to the death of someone dear to him, Rin Nohara."
"And yes, I fought Madara the day Rin died."
Konan was startled. "That Sharingan isn't Madara's?"
Shūichi countered, "If it were, why would they be separated? Using them together would unleash their full power, wouldn't it?"
"The Sharingan were divided to better control Obito."
He then asked, "Nagato's heart also bears a cursed seal left by Madara, doesn't it?"
"My late friend, Obito, lost Rin because of such a seal—it forced her to choose death at his hands."
Konan stared at him. "If all this is true, are you trying to make us betray Madara and help you save Obito?"
Shūichi shook his head. "Obito's abilities are too tricky to counter.
"I'm sharing this information because... my goal aligns with yours."
Konan was stunned. "What?"
"Your goal... isn't it the same as Jiraiya-sensei's?"
Shūichi smirked. "You mean achieving peace through mutual understanding and resolving conflict?"
"That's too naive."
"If I kill Nagato now, will you understand me?"
"Of course not."
"Did Nagato understand the pain of those he killed? No."
"Without overwhelming strength, how can you make others listen to reason?"
He continued, "Your original Akatsuki failed because it lacked sufficient power. If you had enough strength, you could've swept through the Land of Rain, intimidating the Five Great Nations into submission."
Konan fell silent, unable to discern the truth in his words.
Shūichi carried on. "I may not know your exact plan, but I can guess: you aim to use the Tailed Beasts' power to end war among nations."
Konan replied, "We want the Five Great Nations to experience the pain of war first..."
Shūichi interrupted, "Haven't they already suffered enough pain?
"From the Warring States Period until now—over a thousand years of strife. Has it stopped? No."
Shaking his head, Shūichi feigned disappointment. "Your vision is still too small. It's no better than the First Hokage's approach."
Konan scowled. "Then what do you suggest?"
Shūichi's eyes burned with intensity. "It's simple. Conquer the other villages. Subdue the other nations. Unite the Shinobi World under one village, one nation!"
"When that happens, do you think war will persist?"
Konan froze, unable to fathom this perspective. She stared at Shūichi, realizing he might be even more extreme than they were.
"Share this with Nagato."
With that, Shūichi moved behind Konan, pressing her neck to leave a Flying Thunder God mark.
Konan snapped back. "What are you doing?"
Shūichi smiled. "A Flying Thunder God mark—it can't be removed."
"Konan, you don't want Nagato to become another Yahiko, do you?"
"Think carefully about everything I've said. If you don't, you'll only end up as Madara's discarded pawns."
After finishing his words, Shūichi's figure vanished, and the Fire Nether Chains binding Konan dispersed immediately.
Konan staggered, collapsing to her knees on the tower's roof, gasping for air.
"If... if everything that guy said is true, then Nagato..."
Her heart trembled. Nagato was already the only family she had left in this world—her sole reliance.
Gritting her teeth, Konan stood up. With her paper transforming into wings, she flew toward the central high tower of the Rain Village.
Regardless of whether what he said was true or not, she had to tell Nagato everything.
Konan returned to the high tower she shared with Nagato, waiting for a full hour before Uchiha Obito finally arrived with Nagato.
This delay was because White Zetsu had confirmed that Shūichi had already left.
Nagato was clearly displeased. As soon as he saw Konan, he asked, "Konan, did that Shūichi do anything to you?"
Konan glanced at Uchiha Obito, cloaked and masked, and replied, "That man left a Flying Thunder God mark on me."
White Zetsu immediately spoke up, "That's going to be troublesome. As far as I know, there's no way to remove that mark."
"This means Shūichi can appear beside you at any moment to ambush us."
"The only solution is—"
Before he could finish, Nagato shot him a cold glare. "That plan doesn't necessarily require you."
White Zetsu hurriedly laughed, "It was just a joke, no need to take it seriously!"
After eyeing White Zetsu's probing response, Black Zetsu interjected, "Shūichi didn't kill Konan but left a Flying Thunder God mark instead. It's likely he wants to sow discord among us."
"While the mark is indeed a problem, it doesn't mean we can't use it against Shūichi."
"Shūichi's strength exceeded our expectations. It seems we'll need to alter our original plan to capture the Nine-Tails."
"In this situation, working together is our best chance to succeed."
White Zetsu quickly added, "I don't think we're out of options just yet."
"The Nine-Tails Jinchūriki is pregnant. If we attack Konoha, we can use the entire village as leverage, leaving Shūichi and the Fourth Hokage unable to fight at full strength."
"If we use Konoha as a distraction, we'll have the opportunity to seize the Nine-Tails."
"With the Nine-Tails in our possession, we'll have a better chance against Shūichi."
Nagato responded calmly, "Then proceed with the plan to gather intelligence and confirm the Nine-Tails Jinchūriki's delivery date."
"When the time comes, I'll use the Six Paths Puppets to hold them off and buy us enough time."
Black Zetsu nodded. "If that's the case, it's worth a try."
With that, Obito activated Kamui and left.
Nagato and Konan returned to the depths of the tower, to the area where the Six Paths Puppets were created. They activated the barrier set up in the chamber.
"Konan, speak."
Nagato had already sensed that there were things Konan hadn't said earlier.
After a brief silence, Konan relayed everything Shūichi had told her.
Nagato's expression shifted multiple times as he listened, eventually closing his eyes.
When Konan finished, she looked at Nagato with deep concern and asked, "Nagato, do you think what that man said is true?"
Nagato didn't answer immediately. He silently pondered and analyzed the intelligence Shūichi had provided. After a long pause, he opened his eyes.
"Does it matter whether it's true or not?"
"Our relationship with Uchiha Madara was always one of mutual exploitation."
"The curse mark on my heart isn't difficult to deal with. Once we've gathered all nine Tailed Beasts, whether or not to resurrect Uchiha Madara will be entirely my decision."
Konan quickly responded, "But Uchiha Madara wouldn't overlook that possibility. He didn't truly trust us; that's why he placed the curse mark on you."
"That Uchiha Obito, controlled by Black Zetsu and White Zetsu, is likely his contingency plan against us."
"Furthermore, if the Rinnegan really belongs to Uchiha Madara, there's a chance he left something hidden within those eyes as well."
"N-Nagato, these eyes…"
Nagato raised a hand, cutting her off. "I won't give up these eyes or this power."
"Besides, we can't fully trust Shūichi either."
"However, his method of ending wars is indeed better than our plan."
"Once we've collected all nine Tailed Beasts and created the ultimate weapon, the Ten-Tails, we'll launch a war against the Five Great Shinobi Villages and their nations, wiping them out in one decisive stroke."
"Once the Five Great Shinobi Villages are eliminated, the remaining villages and nations will naturally surrender."
"At that point, we can establish a world without war!"
Konan asked, "So, should we still interact with Shūichi?"
"He left a Flying Thunder God mark on me. He's bound to return."
She couldn't shake the memory of Shūichi's gaze, which had made her feel like prey under the watchful eyes of a predator.
Nagato thought of Shūichi's strength, feeling an immense pressure in his heart, though he didn't show it.
With Yahiko gone, the burden fell entirely on him.
"If we can cooperate with Uchiha Madara, why not Shūichi?"
Nagato said calmly, "As long as the goal is achieved, the process doesn't matter."
He had already suffered greatly under Hanzō's betrayal, which had led to Yahiko's death.
Thus, he wouldn't fully trust Uchiha Madara, nor would he trust Shūichi completely.
He was no longer the naïve, crying boy he once was.
Still, the information Shūichi provided was just as shocking to him as it had been to Konan.
The Rinnegan belonged to Uchiha Madara.
If that were true...
Nagato's gaze turned icy.
"Even if it was his before, it belongs to me now."
...
Outside Amegakure, Inside a Mountain Cave
Shūichi's figure appeared, gazing out toward Amegakure from a distance.
The reason he revealed so much to Konan was intentional, meant to subtly manipulate and create discord.
Of course, he didn't expect Nagato to immediately fall for his words or pledge allegiance to him.
After Yahiko's death, Nagato's trust in outsiders was nearly nonexistent.
However, the information Shūichi shared was sufficient to further erode the fragile trust between Nagato and Uchiha Madara.
"Besides, Nagato probably won't refuse a chance to cooperate with me…"
Shūichi chuckled softly to himself.
There was still time—no need to rush.
Once Nagato suffers another major setback, he'll fall in line.
"Time to head home!"
Stretching lazily, Shūichi's figure vanished once more.
---
Konoha, Hokage's Office
When Shūichi arrived, Kakashi was already in the room with Minato.
"Kakashi, what do you think about the ability of Obito's right eye?" Shūichi asked.
Minato also turned his attention to Kakashi, who had already analyzed it.
"It's a space-time ninjutsu," Kakashi replied promptly. "It appears to make his body intangible, evading all attacks. But since it's space-time related, he's likely temporarily transferring his body to another dimension, creating the illusion of intangibility."
Shūichi nodded. "Obito's eyes work like this: the right eye transfers objects it touches to the other dimension, while the left eye can transfer objects from a distance. Both eyes can also transport the user into the dimension simultaneously."
Kakashi's expression grew grave. "One for close-range, one for long-range—offensive and defensive capabilities combined. If he has both eyes…"
Minato immediately recalled the time Shūichi had been injured.
He was well aware of Shūichi's speed, and yet he had still been wounded. This demonstrated the immense power of Obito's eye abilities, reinforcing the importance of their current plan to retrieve his eye.
"Shūichi, what do you plan to do with Obito's eye once we get it?" Minato asked.
Shūichi smiled. "How about giving it to Rin?"
"Obito would probably be thrilled with that," he added with a smirk.
Kakashi's eyes lit up. "With the Mangekyō Sharingan, the First Hokage's cells could be effectively suppressed. That means Rin could be revived immediately, right?"
Shūichi nodded.
Though Kamui was powerful, he had no intention of using it himself. His priority was to see if he could learn to awaken the Sharingan from Shisui first.
If he succeeded…
Minato, after some thought, nodded. "Then we'll transplant it to Rin."
As Shūichi had pointed out, Obito would likely be more than willing to accept this outcome.
Still, considering the complicated relationships between Obito, Kakashi, and Rin, Minato couldn't help but feel a twinge of helplessness.
---
At this moment, Shūichi shifted his focus back to Minato and offered a suggestion.
"Sensei, during Lady Kushina's delivery, you'll need to take extensive precautions."
"The Rinnegan's sealing techniques are incredibly powerful. Even the Flying Thunder God technique could be rendered ineffective."
"Moreover, if that technique is deployed, it could destroy all of Konoha."
Both Minato and Kakashi's expressions darkened at his words.
Shūichi continued, "The safest location is Mount Myōboku."
"When the time comes, have Lady Kushina deliver the baby there."
"Meanwhile, evacuate the villagers into the shelters in advance. If they dare to attack, then we fight."
Minato pondered for a moment before nodding. "We'll proceed as planned. When the time comes, we'll send Kushina to Mount Myōboku ahead of her due date."
---
Outside the Hokage Building
Shūichi left the Hokage building and headed to the experimental facility with Kakashi.
Inside, White Zetsu's clone, Tobi, had been sealed and isolated. Taking Obito's Sharingan and Rin Nohara's original eye, Shūichi and Kakashi entered Rin's chamber.
Transplanting eyes was a trivial task for Shūichi.
After replacing both of Rin's eyes, Shūichi immediately released the seal that had been suppressing her.
With the power of the Mangekyō Sharingan to suppress it, the Hashirama cells no longer multiplied uncontrollably. Instead, they began to heal Rin's body completely.
As expected, once the seal was removed, the Hashirama cells spread throughout Rin's body, but instead of rampant proliferation, they worked to repair the damage in her brain.
Dead brain cells were replaced in large quantities.
An hour later, Rin slowly regained consciousness. At first, her vision was blurry, but as it cleared, she froze in surprise—she could feel a distinct change in her left eye.
Shūichi explained, "Your left eye has been replaced with Obito's Mangekyō Sharingan. Your right eye is your original one, reimplanted."
"With the Hashirama cells, the strain from the Sharingan shouldn't be too overwhelming. However, you'll need to learn to control this eye. Even if you can't deactivate it entirely, you must be able to switch between the regular three-tomoe Sharingan and the Mangekyō form at will."
Rin nodded and, with Kakashi's help, stood up. "Thank you, Shūichi."
Shūichi replied, "The Sharingan is difficult to master. You'll need time to adapt."
"Also, for the sake of secrecy regarding Obito, you'll likely need to stay at the Root facility or here at the experimental base for now."
With the Sharingan and the Hashirama cells affecting her chakra, Rin would undoubtedly attract attention. Wearing a mask would help maintain her anonymity.
"I understand," Rin said. "I'll stay at the experimental base and assist you and Lady Tsunade."
Shūichi nodded. "Alright, you two can talk. I'll be off."
With that, he vanished.
---
Personal Laboratory
Inside his private lab, Shūichi unsealed a scroll to retrieve the severed arm of the Gedo Statue.
After examining it briefly, he scraped off some material and placed it under a microscope for observation.
"The cells have plant-like characteristics, but they're not exactly the same. The cellular structure is more complex than human cells, with incredible vitality—even more than the Nine-Tails…"
After some analysis, Shūichi returned his attention to the Gedo Statue's arm. Contemplating for a moment, he touched it and injected chakra from the One-Tail.
The vast chakra vanished without a trace, as though absorbed. Shūichi frowned and was about to try another tailed beast's chakra when the arm suddenly began to change.
The severed arm transformed into a tree root and emitted a powerful suction, actively absorbing Shūichi's chakra.
Quickly withdrawing his hand, Shūichi observed the now-root-like arm. It showed no further reaction and appeared to be an ordinary, rigid piece of wood.
"Perhaps it requires chakra from all nine tailed beasts to activate further?"
"Could this root be used to create a miniature God Tree or even a small Ten-Tails?"
Shūichi fell into deep thought.
"I'll need to experiment by injecting chakra from each tailed beast to see if there's any reaction."
For now, Shūichi decided not to "consume" it.
His body still couldn't fully process even the chakra of the Nine-Tails. Consuming part of the Ten-Tails would likely cause complications, posing significant risks.
He sealed the root of the God Tree for further study.
Then,
Shūichi shifted his focus to the tag tree in his mind.
A new tag had been triggered:
Tag: God of Shinobi
Condition to Obtain: Gain universal recognition in the ninja world, becoming the next "God of Shinobi" after Hashirama Senju.
Effect: Increases luck by 100% and grants the Sage Body of Hashirama Senju.
"Wow," Shūichi murmured, surprised by the tag.
The title God of Shinobi?
How did Hashirama earn it?
Rubbing his chin, Shūichi mused, "So… I need to dominate the other four great ninja villages?"
"Well, Suna shouldn't need much convincing, right?"
Leaving the experimental base and passing through a forest, Shūichi saw Kakashi sparring with Rin.
After being bedridden for so long, even with regular care, it was impossible for Rin to recover her full strength immediately after waking up.
Walking was manageable, but regaining combat readiness required constant training.
Shūichi quietly observed from a distance, stepping forward only when Rin took a break. "Looks like you're recovering well."
Rin smiled brightly. "Thanks to the First Hokage's cells, my body is even stronger than before. Recovery has been really quick."
Shūichi immediately summoned a peculiar-looking blade and handed it to her. "Here. I originally planned to give you Samehada since you have the Three-Tails, but this pair of swords, Hiramekarei, suits you better."
Rin stared at the uniquely shaped weapon in surprise. "This... isn't it too extravagant for me?"
Shūichi chuckled. "Rin, you're no ordinary medical-nin anymore. You're the Three-Tails' jinchūriki."
"Hiramekarei can store chakra and release it explosively during battle, unleashing tremendous power. It's a perfect match for you."
"As for training with the blades... let Kakashi help you with that."
Rin glanced at Kakashi, who gave her a slight nod. "A medical-nin with strong combat abilities can cover a team's weaknesses."
Encouraged, Rin accepted Hiramekarei with determination. "I'll work hard to master it."
Shūichi smiled. "When Obito comes back, you three might become the strongest squad in the ninja world."
Rin beamed happily but responded modestly, "That's an exaggeration, Shūichi."
After chatting for a while, Kakashi said, "Shūichi, can you escort Rin to the Root base? I need to return to my mission."
"Sure, let's go."
The three set off together.
---
At the Root Base
On the way, they parted ways—Kakashi returned to relieve Shūichi's clone, while Shūichi brought Rin to the Root base. There, Rin donned a black hooded cloak and a mask, with Hiramekarei strapped to her back. Even if she stood face-to-face with Uchiha Obito, he probably wouldn't recognize her.
Seeing Rin's new look, Shūichi grinned. "Rin, why not give yourself a codename?"
"A codename?" Rin thought for a moment before answering, "Let's go with 'Karei,' after Hiramekarei!"
(T/N: Both hirame and karei are Japanese names for species of flounder. The flounders with their eyes on the left side of their body are called hirame (鮃, 平目, 比目魚), while those with their eyes on the right side are called karei (鰈). Befitting its name, Hiramekarei is shaped like these fish.)
"Sounds good."
Turning to Tenka, Shūichi said, "Tenka, I'll leave Karei in your care."
Tenka smiled warmly. "Don't worry. I'll take good care of her."
Leaving Rin with Tenka, Shūichi departed swiftly.
---
Two Months Later
At the Root base, Shūichi reviewed a report on Hayate Gekkō submitted by Tenka.
Sitting elegantly in a figure-hugging cheongsam, Tenka smiled. "Hayate Gekkō might be the most outstanding performer since the reestablishment of Root, don't you think?"
Shūichi nodded. "Indeed. Hayate's talent in ninjutsu has exceeded my expectations."
"In such a short time, he's mastered two nature transformations—Fire and Wind. Combined with his previous proficiency in Yin Release for genjutsu and Water Release, that's four nature transformations. While he's only proficient with Fire and Wind, that alone is at a jōnin level."
Tenka laughed softly. "That's thanks to your excellent teaching, Shūichi."
After signing the report, Shūichi instructed, "Have Karei deliver this to the Hokage's office. Also, please bring Hayate Gekkō to me."
Tenka nodded, took the report, and sashayed out.
---
Soon, Hayate entered, carrying a massive blade that seemed disproportionate to his slender frame.
"Lord Shūichi!"
Shūichi nodded slightly. "I've reviewed your evaluation report. An A-grade. It's the highest rating since the reestablishment of Root."
Hayate's face lit up with excitement, and he quickly said, "It's all thanks to your guidance, Lord Shūichi."
Shūichi replied indifferently, "This is an excellent result, but remember, the ninja world has many powerful individuals. Continue striving to improve."
Straightening his posture, Hayate responded, "Yes, Lord Shūichi!"
Shūichi continued, "In recognition of your achievements, I have a cursed seal for you. It's called the Star God Seal, which enhances Fire and Wind Release ninjutsu. The degree of enhancement depends on your own capabilities, ranging from several times to dozens of times."
"However, as the seal is linked to my chakra, it essentially acts as a marker. You've heard of the Flying Thunder God Technique, haven't you?"
Hayate's eyes widened in astonishment but quickly steadied himself. "Lord Shūichi, I'd like to receive the cursed seal."
Unsurprised, Shūichi placed the seal on Hayate.
Hayate became the first person, aside from notable figures like Nonō Yakushi, to receive a cursed seal—albeit an initial version that only boosted Fire and Wind Releases.
Activating the cursed seal granted a pseudo-Sage Mode, significantly enhancing ninjutsu potency and compensating for Hayate's limited chakra reserves.
After the seal was complete, Shūichi instructed, "The cursed seal won't appear in your records, but when reporting to the Fourth Hokage, you'll need to disclose it to him."
"Yes, Lord Shūichi!"
Hayate bowed deeply before leaving.
---
Outside the Root base, Hayate paused and glanced back.
"What an incredible training experience. Lord Shūichi's methods are godlike. No wonder everyone who's been here says it's worth it."
He clenched his fists. "When Yugao becomes a chūnin, I'll make sure she gets a spot for special training too."
With that, he leapt toward the Hokage building at full speed.
---
At the Hokage office, Hayate soon met Minato Namikaze.
After reading the detailed report submitted by the Root training division, Minato listened to Hayate's verbal report with a calm expression and nodded slightly. "I understand about the cursed seal. Keep it confidential."
"Rest for two days, then officially join the Anbu."
Hayate, brimming with energy, responded, "Lord Fourth Hokage, I'm ready to join the Anbu and take on missions immediately."
Minato studied Hayate's determination and, after a moment's thought, nodded. "Very well. Genma, escort Hayate to the Anbu and hand him over to Wind."
Genma Shiranui appeared.
"Understood!"
---
Following Genma to the Anbu base, Hayate was asked to choose a codename.
After some thought, he said, "Samehada."
Genma glanced at the massive blade on Hayate's back and chuckled. "That sword is said to be one of the most difficult to wield."
Taking his Anbu gear and mask, Hayate smiled wryly. "Samehada is demanding, but Lord Shūichi has tamed it for me. It's quite obedient now."
Genma laughed lightly. "Tamed, huh? More like it's been taught a lesson."
The two quickly arrived at a changing room where three others were already preparing for their mission.
"Wind, this is Gekkō Hayate. He's just transferred over from the Root division, rated A-level. I'll leave him in your hands," said Shiranui Genma as he introduced Hayate.
Sarutobi Bofū and the other two team members immediately focused their attention on Hayate with curiosity.
They were seasoned ANBU operatives who had been transferred from the Sarutobi Hiruzen era. Although they hadn't undergone Root's new special training, the revamped division's reputation preceded it.
"As far as I know, he's the first one to achieve an A-level rating, isn't he?" Sarutobi Bofū asked.
Genma nodded. "Indeed, he's gained Shūichi's trust."
With that, Genma left.
Bofū turned back to Hayate. "Introduce yourself."
Hayate nodded. "Codename: Samehada. Bloodline Limit: Transparent Escape. Proficient in kenjutsu, wind release, fire release; somewhat skilled in water release and genjutsu."
One of the team members exclaimed, "As expected from a Root-trained elite!"
"My codename is Puppet. I specialize in kenjutsu and earth release," the member said.
Bofū and the remaining member also introduced themselves.
After a brief exchange, Bofū said, "Get ready. We're moving out soon."
---
*10 minutes later*
The four-member team left Konoha and headed north.
As they traveled, Bofū, their leader, briefed them on the mission: "Our target is the Land of Hot Water. The cult of Jashin is experiencing a resurgence there, and we're tasked with eliminating its followers."
Puppet raised a brow. "Jashin cult? I thought they were eradicated?"
"Wasn't the Hidden Hot Water Village established after defeating the cult? Is it bad enough now to require outside assistance?"
Bofū explained, "The Hot Water Village is no longer what it once was. Some of their own shinobi have been corrupted by Jashin's power, stealing sealed forbidden energy. As a result, the cult has re-emerged in the Land of Hot Water."
"Our job is to assist the village in wiping out these cultists. Be mentally prepared."
The three team members replied in unison, "Understood!"
---
The next day, the team arrived at the Hidden Hot Water Village. Under the guidance of a village shinobi, they reached the outskirts of a small settlement.
About twenty Hot Water Village shinobi were already stationed there, keeping a close watch on the activity inside the village.
Standing atop a mountain overlooking the village, Hayate and his team observed the central square, which was crowded with people.
"What are they doing?" Hayate asked.
The Hot Water Village jonin replied grimly, "Performing a Jashin ritual."
He handed Bofū a pair of binoculars. Bofū looked through them and was immediately alarmed. "The villagers..."
The jonin's face was dark. "They've all become Jashin cultists."
Bofū frowned beneath his mask. "Even the children and elderly?"
The jonin gritted his teeth. "Last night, we infiltrated the village to try to rescue the residents. But they betrayed us. The people on the altar about to be sacrificed are our comrades."
Hayate was shocked. "Are these people insane?"
Bofū lowered the binoculars. "It seems so."
"Prepare for a direct assault. If we delay, they'll complete their blood sacrifice."
The jonin quickly added, "We'll handle rescuing the prisoners. You focus on dealing with the cultists. Those lunatics have completely lost their minds, so kill them all to avoid a repeat of last night."
Hayate was taken aback—were they really going to kill even the children? But as someone trained for combat, he held his tongue and looked to his captain for instructions.
Bofū said, "Focus on the rescue first."
"Besides, we're only a four-man team. It's impossible to eliminate everyone."
The jonin nodded. "We'll send two teams to assist you."
"But the cult leader must be eliminated. He's the one who stole Jashin's power and has already killed three of our jonin."
Bofū nodded and handed the binoculars to Puppet. "That man on the altar is the primary target."
"Be cautious of his Jashin abilities. According to Shūichi's intel, do not let him obtain even a drop of your blood, or you'll be cursed and killed."
The three members shivered at the warning and nodded solemnly.
"Move out!"
At Bofū's command, the team descended the mountain and charged toward the village.
In the village square, a middle-aged man shouting praises to "Lord Jashin" suddenly turned, spotting the approaching team. His face twisted into a cruel and excited grin. "Finally!"
"Konoha's ANBU, huh?"
"It seems Lord Jashin will soon have more sacrifices!"
The cult leader turned back to his followers and shouted, "Lord Jashin has responded! He demands more sacrifices! He will grant us greater power—immortality itself!"
"So, join me! Capture the intruders and offer them to Lord Jashin!"
The gathered cultists—ninjas, samurai, and ordinary villagers—grew even more frenzied, loudly chanting "Lord Jashin" as they charged toward the Hidden Hot Water Village shinobi stationed on the perimeter.
Meanwhile, the cult leader, flanked by six Hot Water Village chunin who had joined the cult, advanced toward Hayate's team.
"Samehada!"
At Bofū's command, Hayate stopped and raised a hand. In an instant, he disappeared.
"Hmm? One of them vanished..."
The cult leader sneered. "Trying to rescue the prisoners?"
"Heh, there's a surprise waiting for you."
However, Hayate had no intention of rescuing anyone.
According to the plan, saving the captives was the Hidden Hot Water Village's responsibility. Their first objective was to eliminate the cult leader.
The confrontation began.
Sarutobi Bofū and his two teammates fought head-on, while Gekkō Hayate, holding his sword, stealthily approached from behind the enemy, suddenly appearing and effortlessly eliminating one opponent.
Hayate immediately disappeared again after the kill.
The cult leader of Jashin was stunned. "He didn't go to save anyone... He even hid his presence."
"But this won't be a problem for me!"
He was still a sensor ninja, after all!
Seeing another subordinate fall, the Jashin cult leader quickly used a water clone to distract Sarutobi Bofū, then leaped out of the battlefield. He plunged his scythe into the ground and rapidly completed hand seals.
"Die!"
The Jashin cult leader spat out water, which surged and slammed into one of his subordinates.
At nearly the same moment, Gekkō Hayate appeared and attacked that very same subordinate.
Water Release: Exploding Water Collide Wave!
"Samehada, watch out!"
Bofū shouted a warning.
Having just eliminated an enemy, Hayate looked at the approaching torrent of water and realized it was too late to dodge. He immediately drew his large sword, Samehada, from his back.
The bandages came undone, and Samehada immediately expanded.
With his right hand abandoning his katana, Hayate swiftly wielded Samehada with both hands and cleaved downward with immense force.
Boom!
The raging water was cleaved in two by the swollen blade of Samehada.
But right after, a scythe came screaming from the right.
It was the Jashin cult leader, emerging from the water on the right side.
Clang!
Hayate swung Samehada in his right hand, deflecting the scythe's strike.
The two engaged in a rapid exchange of blows on the water's surface, the sound of clashing metal ringing in the air.
"This kid's swordsmanship isn't bad..."
The Jashin cult leader thought to himself, surprised. He performed a flip and quickly retreated while making hand seals.
Hayate reversed Samehada, and the sword's mouth opened, revealing rows of sharp teeth, from which two blades—one long, one short—were ejected.
He drew the long blade, retracted Samehada, and with a single hand seal, Hayate summoned two shadow clones, one on each side of him. Almost instantly, an orange-red flame appeared on the blade.
Star God Seal activated.
The orange-red glow shifted to a blinding white light.
The three Hayates charged forward simultaneously, their images leaving behind distorted afterimages in the air due to the intense heat and the brilliant white light emanating from the blades.
At that moment, the Jashin cult leader completed his hand seals. Streams of water, like water serpents, slithered through the water, heading straight for Hayate. The cult leader followed closely behind, wielding his scythe.
The Jashin cult leader aimed to trap Hayate in his water serpents while attacking him with the scythe.
Hayate, seemingly oblivious to the water serpents below, attacked from three different angles to surround the cult leader.
The Jashin cult leader slashed his scythe to destroy one of Hayate's clones, but when he struck at the second clone, the distortion of the light caused by the intense heat made him miss. The clone's sword pierced his heart.
With a cruel grin, the Jashin cult leader caught the hot blade with his left hand and blocked Hayate's real body's attack with his scythe.
Immediately afterward, water snakes wrapped around Hayate's two remaining clones.
Boom!
The shadow clone was effortlessly destroyed in a single coil of water. As the cult leader raised his scythe to strike down Hayate's real body, the water constricting around him suddenly exploded.
Hayate swung his blade, and with a flash of intense white light, the sword severed the cult leader's right arm before slicing through his neck.
The scythe fell from his severed arm, and the cult leader's head remained on his neck, still shocked as he managed to speak:
"How could you escape my water serpents?"
This was his prideful, self-created water technique, B-rank difficulty.
Hayate said nothing, but he was astonished by the sight in front of him.
Despite his neck being completely severed, the cult leader was still alive and able to speak.
So, this is the power of Jashin?
As for breaking free of the water serpent technique, it was purely the result of Samehada's abilities.
The Jashin cult leader's water technique was based on using his own chakra to create water, which Samehada effortlessly absorbed and neutralized, causing the technique to collapse.
"Samehada, how's it going?"
Bofū, having taken care of the clones, approached.
"This guy's neck was cut off, and he's still talking. He hasn't died," Hayate replied.
Even though they had the intel, Bofū was still stunned. "So this is what Shūichi meant by 'immortality'? Truly amazing."
The Jashin cult leader roared, "You dare offend Lord Jashin? You're all dead!"
"Ha-ha-ha! You can't kill me! I've been blessed by Lord Jashin!"
Hayate casually swiped his sword, sending the cult leader's head flying. "Captain, what now? This guy won't really revive, will he?"
Bofū thought for a moment. "Leave a clone to watch him. Once the battle is over, we'll take him back to Konoha and hand him over to the Fourth Hokage for disposal."