Chapter 59. Travel

In the Hokage Building in Konoha Village, the Third Hokage found himself perplexed as he reviewed the report before him.

Just a few days ago, he had mused about how it might be preferable if Uchiha Natsuki were not part of the village.

However, today, an application from Natsuki requesting permission to leave the village for an extended period appeared on his desk.

While nominally still a part of the Village, Uchiha members seeking prolonged travel required the Hokage's consent, especially given Natsuki's previous status as a jounin.

Natsuki's reason for departure was intriguing—claiming the need to collect materials and develop new dishes.

At first glance, the excuse seemed nonsensical, yet it held a surprising level of credibility.

The Uchiha clan was experiencing rapid growth, primarily fueled by substantial capital injection, and Natsuki was likely the mastermind behind the revolutionary [Summer Food].

The Third Hokage found himself unable to refuse the application, lacking any valid reason to do so.

The ninja world was gradually stabilizing, with countries focusing on economic development.

Natsuki's application was, in itself, an esteemed acknowledgment. Moreover, even if he were to attempt an unauthorized exit, the Third Hokage knew he lacked the means to prevent Natsuki's actions.

...

Uchiha land

Natsuki continued packing his bags, unaware that the Third Hokage had actually bought into his improvised excuse.

In this world, the convenience of carrying items was crucial, thanks to the existence of storage scrolls.

Natsuki, possessing the ability to release fire, found it effortless to create fire for cooking.

On the other hand, Natsuki, lacking water attribute chakra, hadn't yet mastered Water Release.

The disappearing water used in the technique made it less practical, especially when preparing for a prolonged absence.

Taking into account the need for drinking water during the journey, Natsuki decided to prioritize its preparation.

Meanwhile, he could easily release fire, simplifying the process of cooking.

Anticipating a lengthy departure, Natsuki arranged a farewell meal at Ichiraku Ramen and invited Naruto and Sasuke to join.

As Naruto discovered Natsuki's coming departure, he struggled to finish his ramen, visibly distressed.

He held a significant place in Naruto's life, having brought light into it two years ago. Under his guidance, Naruto's life had progressively improved.

Aware of Naruto's deep connection, Natsuki comforted him, gently patting his head. "It's okay; I'll only be away for a little while. I promise to come back,"

Natsuki assured him. "Now is your time to focus on laying the foundation with Sasuke. Learn everything diligently in Ninja School; these skills will be crucial in the future. I'll do my best to return before you graduate."

Naruto, wiped away his tears and nodded earnestly.

Sasuke, standing next to Naruto, felt a twinge of annoyance as he observed Naruto's reluctance to part ways with Natsuki.

Nevertheless, acknowledging the closer relationship Natsuki shared with him, Sasuke understood the depth of his emotions.

Having been informed of Natsuki's departure beforehand, Sasuke had mentally prepared himself, feeling less overwhelmed by sadness.

Natsuki, recognizing the dynamics, spoke in a hushed tone to Naruto, "Naruto, I've entrusted the future training plans for both you and Sasuke to him. When I return, show it to me. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your Uncle Fugaku, alright?"

Surprised by Natsuki's thorough preparations, Naruto nodded vigorously, his emotions running high.

On the other hand, Sasuke found himself slightly excited at the prospect of taking on the role of Naruto's teacher once again.

...

The following day, at the entrance of Konoha Village, Natsuki's departing figure stretched into the distance.

A crowd had gathered to bid him farewell, mostly comprised of Uchiha restaurant owners.

Natsuki, the deputy clan leader, had been instrumental in resolving numerous issues for the Uchiha clan, earning him the respect and gratitude of many.

The happiness index of the Uchiha clan experienced a significant surge. The presence of the Hyuga clan, including Hiashi and Hizashi, added to the crowd bidding farewell.

The Uchiha people were not only grateful for Natsuki handing over the police force rights but also credited him with saving the Hyuga clan from potential annihilation.

The strengthened cooperation between the Uchiha and Hyuga clans had forged a bond akin to that of one large family.

The once-tenuous relationship had evolved into a close alliance.

Meanwhile, the Third Hokage stood atop the walls of Konoha, watching Natsuki's departure.

As he observed him walking away, a sense of relief washed over him.

...

Inside a cave, several illusory figures stood atop stone pillars, engaged in a meeting.

"This technique of yours is really easy to use. Conversations from any distance—it's an art!" exclaimed one voice in an exaggerated tone, though most present ignored the comment.

Pain, positioned at the front with a pair of rinnegan, spoke calmly, "We still need more people to realize our ideals." 

Konan added, "A lot of resources are needed to realize the plan. Kakuzu, you're in charge of finance. What do you think?"

From the shadows, Kakuzu emerged, his voice shrouded in darkness, "We are powerful enough to sweep the entire black market. However, I've found another potential source of wealth."

"The Land of Sound, Otogakure. There's a delicacy there known as [Summer Food]. I don't know how much money it generates, but the source is in Land of Sound."

"Don't you know that's Orochimaru's territory?"

"It's just Orochimaru, a lost dog," Kakuzu replied dismissively.

Kakuzu, undeterred by Orochimaru's name, scoffed at the idea of fearing one of the sannins.

Orochimaru's absence from Akatsuki, due to Itachi's intervention, left the organization in the dark about Orochimaru's current abilities.

Over the years, Orochimaru's influence had weakened, and for them, he held little deterrence.

The two halves of the aloe leaf-like light and shadow opened up, and Zetsu interjected, "Orochimaru may not be a significant threat, but consider Uchiha Itachi with his powerful Mangekyo Sharingan and over a hundred Uchiha elites. This village is not a place to go casually."

Kakuzu snorted coldly, recognizing the formidable power of the Mangekyo Sharingan, a knowledge stemming from his long life spanning the Warring States Period to the present.

Observing Kakuzu's silence, Zetsu suggested an alternative, "Though we can't go to the village, we can seek out another individual—Uchiha Natsuki."

"Who's that?" Kakuzu inquired, unfamiliar with the rising Uchiha.

"Uchiha Natsuki, the current deputy chief of the Uchiha clan, possesses a powerful Mangekyo Sharingan. He defeated the Eight-Tailed Jinchuuriki, Killer B, bringing disgrace to the entire Kumogakure," Zetsu explained.

"He's a late-blooming genius, awakening the Mangekyo at the age of twenty. What truly sets him apart, though, is his business insight."

"The [Summer Food] in the Otogakure is likely crafted by Natsuki Uchiha. In Konoha, the entire Uchiha clan is engaged in this business, and as a result, they've become incredibly wealthy."

Konan stood amidst the play of light and shadow, her expression unreadable, yet her thoughts were in motion.

Her previous knowledge of Natsuki was limited to recognizing his strength with the Mangekyo Sharingan.

However, the revelation that the widely popular [Summer Food] might be his creation added a new dimension to her understanding.

The idea of bringing Natsuki into the Akatsuki organization crossed her mind, and the potential benefits were obvious.

She couldn't help but wonder how much-undisclosed information existed.

"Maybe we can bring him into the Akatsuki," suggested Konan.

Zetsu chuckled lightly, "That's a coincidence. Uchiha Natsuki has just left Konoha Village and is on his way to travel. It's easy to find."

Pain, taking charge, gave a direct order, "Others, continue to look for suitable member. Konan, go meet Uchiha Natsuki for a while."

With that, the light and shadow dissipated, leaving the Akatsuki members to proceed with their respective tasks.