Chapter 144

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....

Title: Meanwhile.

...

While Shun and his sister were out on a mission, they were unaware of the happening of something major that shocked five out of the six great villages.

Orochimaru, one of the legendary Sanins, someone noted to be among the strongest Shinobi of their generation, left his village as a Rogue Ninja.

The reason behind that was unknown, but the fact that someone with strength of such caliber was roaming around the world unchecked, was a cause for worry.

As for his whereabouts, no one knew.

However,

"When I heard that you fled your village... Honestly, I was shocked. What could possibly make someone like you leave a place you've fought two wars to protect?" A white haired middle aged man said as he appeared in front of a seemingly ordinary looking man.

Said ordinary looking man was reading a book in front of an open air restaurant in the entertainment district of Hanagakure.

"It's you... Seems like the rumor about this place isn't all a lie." the ordinary looking man said with displeasure.

The ordinary-looking man in question had a mischievous glint in his eyes. He has sandy blonde hair that's almost always messy, and a clean-shaven face that hides a devilish smile. But what makes the man truly remarkable is his ability to blend seamlessly into any environment, thanks to his expert disguise skills.

"You know rumors are nothing but fragments of the truth, you would know that, wouldn't you, Orochimaru...?"

"Heh, of course I would, plus, this isn't my first time here." The man, Orochimaru smiled and replied.

"Yes, other times, you came on a mission with either your teammates or a squad under you... Speaking of teammates, how is Tsunade? Haven't heard from her in years."

"She's alright...is what I would like to say, but not even I know. She's always been her own person... You would know, wouldn't you, Kei-chan."

"Of course I would, she's my sister." Kei-chan, or rather, Keshiro, the Hanakage replied. "So... What brings you here? Surely you wouldn't be seeking asylum here would you?"

"Hehehe. Surely you jest, I'm merely here for... experimental purposes." Orochimaru smirked mischievously.

"Hmm... Many don't know why you ran..or rather left your village, but I do... Don't think I will let it pass should I get a missing person report... Not even a street orphan... Am I clear?" Keshiro said with an easygoing air around him, but Orochimaru felt the seriousness in his words.

"Is that a threat?"

"Nah... I don't do threats. That was merely a warning. I wouldn't want to have to kill a friend... You know, responsibilities and all that." An invisible pressure was currently being radiated from the two but no one seemed to notice.

'This should be the Domain... Intriguing.' Orochimaru thought as his interest was piqued. "So, you think you're something special, huh? I've heard people talk about your confidence, your abilities, but I'm not impressed. In fact, I'm here to show you that you're nothing compared to me."

Keshiro smirked. "Well, well, well, it seems I've caught your attention. I understand your skepticism, but let me tell you something: confidence doesn't come from arrogance, it comes from knowing your strengths and believing in yourself."

Orochimaru rolled his eyes and licked his lips at the same time. "Oh, spare me your empty words. I've faced countless opponents who claimed to have unbeatable skills, only to crumble before me. What makes you so different?

Keshiro scoffed at that. "It's not just about empty words, my friend. It's about having a mindset that refuses to be shaken, no matter the circumstances. I've honed my skills, pushed my limits, and faced challenges head-on. And that's why I'm different.

Orochimaru laughed mockingly. "You sound just like that fool. You really think your supposed confidence can stand up against my years of experience? I've seen it all, been through countless battles, and emerged victorious every time. What makes you think you're any different? And you? You all have stayed couped up in this little island of yours."

Keshiro's smile never left his face as he said. "Experience certainly holds value, but it's not everything. Sometimes, being too comfortable with one's past accomplishments can cloud the present potential. I respect your journey, but perhaps it's time you witness a fresh perspective.

"Ha! Fresh perspective? That won't save you from what I'm about to unleash upon you. Prepare yourself for defeat, little confident one."

"You underestimate the power of a confident mind. It's not just about what you unleash, but how I adapt and respond. I thrive in challenging situations, using adversity to fuel my determination and uncover hidden strengths.

"Empty words won't save you. I'll crush that confidence you hold so dearly and leave you broken and defeated.

Still smiling calmly "You can try, but let me warn you, underestimating your opponent is a grave mistake. Confidence isn't just about being resilient; it's also about being clever, strategic, and resourceful. And that's a combination you will soon witness firsthand." Keshiro said.

"You talk a big game, but actions speak louder, my overconfident friend. Prepare to eat your words."

"I won't disappoint. Just remember, it's not just about defeating an opponent; it's about proving to yourself what you're truly capable of. And rest assured, I'm ready to showcase my true potential.

Their conversation ended, the tension mounting between them. Two forces destined to clash, each firm in their resolve. Only time would reveal the victor, the answer to their clash of confidence and determination.

"Alright. Alright, stop it you two, jeez, what's with this dick measuring contest you have going on here?" Another voice interrupted, breaking the tension already built between the two.

"Ah! Yatsuyo-chan, still looking as beautiful as ever." Orochimaru turned to the newest arrival and smiled as though he wasn't planning on unleashing hell on her brother seconds ago.

"My. What a glibbed tongue fellow. You haven't changed all these years, little snake."

"I can assure you, this snake isn't little." Orochimaru quipped back,

"Alright, I'm gonna stop you two right there before I puke. Ya-chan, you'll be incharge of him till he leaves. Orochimaru, don't do anything that'll make us fall out, Yes?"

"You have my word." Orochimaru smirked while licking his lips.

"You need to stop doing that. Even if I know you won't, that thing you do with your tongue just makes me think otherwise."

"Kukuku, what can I say... The ladies enjoy it."

"..." Puff. Keshiro couldn't stand it anymore and just dispelled his clone.

Back in his office, the main body who just got back the memory of his clone couldn't help but retch while reviewing the memory.

"Damn. I've always known he'd be a psycho." He muttered to himself and went back to his paperwork.

...

Days later, Shun and Yusano returned and reported on their mission to their father who then went and reported it to the Kage. It wasn't a village mission, but as the head of the Tengoku family, Keshiro had to know.

With that settled, time continued to flow uninterruptedly... Not that it could be interrupted in the first place.

When the clan heard of Yusano awakening her domain, there was a party thrown just for her and everyone in the village partook in it. All the clans, civilians and Orphans.

Everyone. That went to show how much the clan actually appreciated someone Awakening their Domain.

On one occasion, Shun and Yusano were asked to spar at full intensity and the result left the clan elder smiling from ear to ear.

Flashback

In a frozen landscape, where snowflakes danced in the air, two individuals faced each other, ready to engage in a battle of extraordinary abilities.

The first fighter possessed the power of Ice domain, able to wield the element of ice with deadly precision. The second warrior, on the other hand, possessed the incredible skill of Teleportation in his domain, able to vanish and reappear at will, making him an elusive and unpredictable adversary.

As the clash began, the mistress stretched out her hand, summoning shards of ice to form icicle projectiles. With a sharp flick, she sent them hurtling towards her opponent.

But just as the projectiles were about to strike, Shun vanished into thin air, his form becoming intangible, as if he were a phantom. The shards soared through empty space, missing their target.

Suddenly, with a dazzling flash, Shun reappeared right beside the ice mistress, Yusano. Before the latter could react, a swift kick connected, propelling her backward onto the frozen ground.

However, Yusano quickly recovered, spinning on the ice and launching a swirling barrage of ice darts towards her agile adversary.

Using his teleportation abilities once again, Shun evaded the onslaught, the darts passing harmlessly through the space he had occupied.

He seized the opportunity and swiftly reappeared behind the Ice Master, delivering a swift series of punches and kicks. Each strike was executed with incredible speed and accuracy, leaving Yusano struggling to counter their impact.

As She regained her footing, she called upon the power of her Ice domain once more. Condensing the moisture in the air, she formed a massive ice wall in front of him, stretching from end to end of the stage.

Shun momentarily paused, confronted by the formidable obstacle. But he quickly regained his focus, activating his Nihility to phase through the barrier, reappearing just inches away from her.

Determined to gain the upper hand, Yusano unleashed a technique known as the Ice Prison, encasing her opponent in a cocoon of solid ice.

However, the Shun skillfully transported himself out of the icy trap, teleporting away just before the encasing was complete. Frustration flickered in the eyes of the Ice mistress as she realized the elusive nature of her adversary.

Utilizing his domain to his advantage, Shun continued to appear and disappear at will, delivering swift and precise strikes, leaving the Ice mistress struggling to keep up. The stage became a blurred dance of teleportation and icy attacks, each pushing the limits of their respective abilities.

As their battle raged on, it became evident that this fight was a clash of wits and adaptability. The Ice mistress, though formidable with her freezing abilities, had to anticipate the movements of her opponent.

Meanwhile, the Teleportation Master had to time his teleportations with precision, always seeking an advantage while evading the icy onslaught.

Ultimately, it was a battle of attrition and strategy. Both warriors showed skill and resilience, each refusing to yield. With every clash and evasive maneuver, they pushed themselves to new heights, testing the limits of their capabilities.

As the fight continued, the outcome remained uncertain, the true victor yet to be determined in this enthralling confrontation between Ice Ninjutsu and Teleportation Jutsu.

Flashback End.

...

Shun's POV

That fight was one of the best I've ever had since I reincarnated into this body. Not even fighting with dad was that interesting. He'd always have this mentality that I was a kid and never went all out.

I too wouldn't go all out and just fight him in pure Kenjutsu. However, fighting with Yusano was thrilling, much more than anything.

That was the advantage of fighting with someone with the same eyes as you. With her experience and the ability the Rikugan gave her, she was able to react to my teleportation while also keeping me on my toes.

I could've won her if we were in private, but showing off everything in my arsenal in public was stupid, even for me.

...

The new academic year came and went quickly. Kimizu was improving superbly. She could already use her violin to attack... lethal ones at that.

It was to be expected though. You can't expect a sound based attack to be subtle, can you? Her training ground was filled with slash marks here and there. That scene will make you wonder which two Jounin fought here.

Unfortunately, she couldn't still emulate what I did and induce someone into an illusion. I had advised her to join Yatsuyo's squad as soon as she graduated as that will give her more prospects on how to develop.

Back then, Yuki had made the squad to be versed in all forms of arts that could be used for entertainment. I'm sure she would learn more than I could possibly bring out my time to teach her.

{A\N: Meaning I don't have time to teach her patiently.}

As for the Chinoike girl that had always been with us ever since, she was also coming along nicely. She never did like the fact that everyone only expects them to be versed in Genjutsu.

Of course they were deadly as they could manipulate blood, but even that is rare amongst the clan, as is the Ketsuryugan.

Seeing her try so hard made me unable to not teach her a thing or two. So I taught her as much martial art as she could possibly use.. whatever branch she decides on will be up to her.

...

My time with Naruto was also wonderful. The boy was one bundle of joy, happiness and energy. I mean, the guy never seemed to tire. Mentally and Physically.

I learnt he made a friend a few months back, he went by the name, Yota. However, he was sad when he said the boy disappeared and all his other friends blamed him for it.

I knew this arc. It was the time Shikamaru, Choji, Ino and Sakura became friends with Naruto for a short period, however, Yota's disappearance broke them apart again.

I almost wanted to go to these three clans to have a talk with their clan heads but the smile that Naruto had when he spoke of his other friend made me forget it.

Apparently, there was this weird girl who'd always stay with him but wouldn't say anything. She was nice as she shared her food with him, but she was weird because she didn't seem to like to talk much.

"Did you know her before?" I asked him as we were sharing a bowl of ramen.

"Ummhm." He mouthed and then swallowed and said. "Yes, Nii-san, she was my First friend. After you left last time, I was by myself when I saw some boys bullying her. I didn't like that so I went and beat them up." He bragged.

"Eh... You beat them up?" I asked while looking at him suspiciously.

"O-of c-course. Believe it!" He started guiltily but firmed up at the end.

"Yes. I believe it, kid." I said and ruffled his hair while he grumbled about me lying to him. 'Look who's talking,'

"So, what do you think about her?" I asked after we left the shop.

"Well, she's nice. She's the only one that doesn't look at me with those eyes... See?" He pointed at one woman who was looking at him with fear before running away.

Seems like the rumor really did spread. Sigh... Should I take it out in Hiruzen and Danzo? I did make a promise after all.

"But it's alright. You told me to make one friend who's always there for me. That's enough for now... As long as I have her and Sasuke, it's okay." He said, making me pause in my steps.

Naruto was never shown as mature in the anime... Was this my doing or was this just a flux in the system?

Yeah. Yeah. I know. I'm messing around. But damn. "Why do you sound so mature? You almost made me feel like I was talking to an old man." I asked the boy as I raised him up to my shoulder.

"Hihihi." He laughed and said, "You may not believe it, but I think my mother is talking to me in Heaven."

"Really? From heaven?" I asked in genuine shock. Seems like Kushina's soul seems to have recovered a little. Having your lifeforce forcibly pulled out of you can be that damaging.

"Yeah. She says to listen to whatever you tell me... Also, she also tells me what to eat, how to spend the money Ji-ji gives me, how to dress, bathe and, and, and...many things." I could feel the excitement and joy radiating from him while also feeling the tears pooling in his eye.

"It's okay Naruto. I'm sure that's your mother. You know, she was my big sister back then." I told the boy.

"Really?"

"Of course. Why would I lie to you? I was even there when you were born."

"Wow!"

"Mh-hmm. I'm that awesome, right?"

"Nii-san, don't let it get to your head." Naruto shot me down

"Wha-!"

"Kaa-san said that when you begin to grin like that, something was getting to your head and I shouldn't allow it." The boy said cutely.

Wha! Kushina-san, how could you?

"Well, it wasn't getting to my head,"

"Are you sure?"

"100%"

"Okay then."

That was how my stay with Naruto went. Of course I decided against having that chat with everyone who's made him sad as it seems Kushina was taking care of that every night.

Well, by next year, his and Sasuke's system should activate. That way, Kushina could talk to him when the system deems it necessary.

He was already five years old and would be entering the academy next year.

By the time he does, I'll be 12... Wow, look how far I've come. Itachi has also become a Chunin. Izumi and Hana too. They were all Geniuses so that much is granted.

Anyways... I guess I'll be graduating when Naruto is entering the academy. Hmm, gotta talk with Shusui to see how the Uchiha clan is and see whether there will be a threat of Itachi going apeshit.

***

I wanted to write a chapter or two on the Chunin exams Itachi went through but I decided against it. His Jounin exams will be written and will take place in Hanagakure.

As Shun, our MC is so much of a genius, he'll be promoted to gold rank shortly after his graduation. And that will also be the exams he will have to go through with Itachi.

Stay tuned guys.

Read extra Chapters on my Patre@n

patreon.com/JoshRichie2.