Chapter 25: Memories

A week had passed since Yasaka's recovery, and she had gradually resumed her responsibilities as the leader of the Yokai. She proudly introduced Sasuke as her savior to her people. As Sasuke had predicted, the Yokai's reaction was troublesome.

They treated him like a hero, making it difficult for him to move around in public areas without drawing too much attention. Understanding Yasaka's good intentions, Sasuke knew it would be easier to announce to her faction that he was her lover.

During the week, Yasaka had noticed an increase in her strength. She was on the verge of a breakthrough, nearing the satan/minor god class rank. Curiosity brimming within her, she couldn't help but ask Sasuke, "Sasuke, did you make me stronger?"

Sasuke chuckled at her reaction and playfully poked her forehead with his fingers. He replied, "Hmm, I did help you become stronger. But you don't need to feel obligated to thank me. I did it willingly. With this boost, you now have a solid foundation to further enhance your abilities." Yasaka was at a loss for words, feeling a mix of gratitude and amazement.

* * *

Both Sasuke and Yasaka could be seen in her bedroom. In the moment, she was trapped in a genjutsu, evident by the spinning Sharingan in her eyes. After a while, the world created by Sasuke shattered like a broken mirror, and they found themselves back in the real world.

Yasaka's eyes were filled with tears, and she couldn't help but hiccup between her sobs. "You've been through so much, Sasuke," she said sadly.

Sasuke's response was a simple "Hn." His emotions were not clearly visible, but his eyes darkened as he recalled the memories of the massacre. The bloodstains across the entire compound, the crimson moon, and the countless times Itachi trapped him in Tsukiyomi, forcing him to witness the scene of their clan's slaughter.

"That was my life before I met you. I'll admit, my mind was not sane, and my actions..." Sasuke trailed off. Yasaka placed a hand on Sasuke's cheek, her touch gentle and comforting.

"Your actions are justifiable," she reassured him. "To witness your entire family die in one night, at the hands of the one you admired, would drive anyone to the brink of madness."

A small smile formed on Sasuke's lips as he held Yasaka's hand that rested on his face. He spoke softly, gratitude lacing his words, "Thank you." Sasuke knew that Yasaka was the reason he felt alive, bringing light to the darkness that had consumed him.

Sasuke continued, his voice filled with sincerity, "When I came to this world, I was filled with self-doubt about my future. I am still a rogue shinobi in my world, and the Kages definitely do not hold me in high regard since I joined the Akatsuki."

He paused briefly before continuing, "I would have isolated myself from the shinobi world if I hadn't met you. I had no plans or goals, but now I have dreams, and that is to be with you."

Yasaka turned herself around and leaned against Sasuke's chest, seeking comfort in his embrace. She spoke softly, her voice filled with understanding, "Your brother is a really confusing person."

Sasuke couldn't help but chuckle at her comment, finding solace in her presence. "Yes," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. He let out a sigh, his thoughts filled with a mix of emotions. "I was young, so I had no clue about the depths of isolation my clan faced. The village pushed us into a corner, and with Shisui's death, the rage within the clan members grew."

He clenched his hand tightly, his eyes reflecting the pain that dwelled within him. "I wish my brother didn't have to become the executioner," Sasuke said, his voice filled with a mix of anguish and regret. A single tear trailed down his cheek as he questioned, "He did it to save me. I wish he didn't have to make that sacrifice. Just why?"

Yasaka remained silent, understanding the weight of Sasuke's words and the turmoil in his heart. She offered her comfort, her presence a soothing balm to his wounded soul. Sasuke's entire life had been a surreal journey, driven by the pursuit of vengeance that ultimately turned out to be based on falsehoods.

"Thanks for being here, Yasaka," Sasuke expressed his gratitude. Yasaka nodded in response, her presence offering him comfort and support. She then brought up Naruto, stating, "Naruto is a really interesting person. Your incarnation brother, who fought in every generation."

"Haha, yes, that dobe," Sasuke chuckled, his tone filled with a mix of fondness and exasperation. "Both you and him played a significant role in shaping and helping me escape from destruction. He's incredibly annoying and has a big mouth, but he's someone I admired since we were young. I suppose we both did."

He knew their bond went beyond rivalry and friendship; it was a connection forged through shared experiences and mutual understanding. Naruto's unwavering determination had always impressed and influenced Sasuke.

"Hehe, it seems blondes are attracted to you," Yasaka teased, enjoying Sasuke's reaction. His expression hardened slightly as he muttered, "Please, don't continue." Sensing his discomfort, Yasaka affectionately kissed his cheek, reassuring him, "I'm just joking. I do hope to meet him someday."

Sasuke rolled his eyes in response. "I have found a way to return to my home world and retrieve my arm. When I spoke to Amaterasu, she offered a method to bring my family back to life," he explained.

Yasaka, unsure of how to react, cautiously replied, "So, you will be going back?" Sasuke's gaze softened as he looked at her. "Of course, but my place is by your side. Konoha is no longer a suitable home for the Uchiha clan."

Feeling a sense of relief, Yasaka sighed and then asked, "Is it the Reanimation jutsu used in the Fourth Shinobi War, I saw in your memories?" Sasuke nodded in confirmation. "Yes, Amaterasu hopefully has a way to restore their bodies and bring them back to life."

Yasaka couldn't contain her genuine happiness. "That's amazing, Sasuke. I'm truly glad you'll have the opportunity to be reunited with your family." Sasuke's expression brightened, grateful for Yasaka's support. "Everyone in the Shinboi world believes that the Uchiha clan is extinct. Since this world has no knowledge of my clan, my family can integrate seamlessly," he added.

- - - - - - -

Enjoying the story you can support me by giving reviews, comments and powerstones. Also check out my other story "Naruto: Yukari Otsutsuki Adventure."