The Past Regret

Izumi stepped forward, his voice steady and filled with reverence as he began his speech.

Izumi: "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, today we gather to celebrate the union of two remarkable souls, Sasuke and Rose. As a student of Sasuke, I am honored to stand before you and share a few words on this joyous occasion."

The room fell silent as Izumi recounted his journey under Sasuke's guidance, highlighting the lessons of perseverance, dedication, and resilience that had shaped him into the ninja he was today. He spoke of the parallels between his own love story with Shikimori and that of Sasuke and Rose, emphasizing the power of love to overcome even the greatest challenges.

Izumi: "Just as Sasuke and Rose have found their happily ever after, I am confident that Shikimori and I will one day stand before you as husband and wife. It is the hope and faith instilled in us by our mentors, Sasuke and Aqua, that give us strength to face whatever trials may come."

As Izumi concluded his speech, the room erupted into applause, moved by his heartfelt words and unwavering optimism. All eyes turned to Aqua, the youngest commando, waiting expectantly for him to deliver his own tribute.

Aqua stepped forward, his expression grave yet determined, as he addressed the assembled guests.

Aqua: "Today, as we celebrate the union of Sasuke and Rose, I am reminded of the profound honor it has been to be trained by Sasuke himself. His wisdom, his strength, and his unwavering commitment to his ideals have shaped not only me, but all who have had the privilege of learning from him."

Aqua's voice rang out with pride as he spoke of the lessons he had learned under Sasuke's tutelage, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice in the face of adversity.

Aqua: "As Sasuke's student, I have strived to embody the values he has imparted to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to stand here today and honor his legacy. May Sasuke and Rose's union be a testament to the power of love, and may their bond endure for all eternity."

With his speech concluded, Aqua stepped back, his gaze lingering on Sasuke and Rose with a mixture of admiration and respect. As the applause swelled around him, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in being a part of such a momentous occasion.

As Kota rose to address the gathered guests, a sense of solemnity settled over the room. His voice carried the weight of his experiences as he spoke of the challenging missions he and his brother, Aqua, had faced together. Kota's words painted a vivid picture of their trials and tribulations, highlighting the invaluable lessons they had learned under Sasuke's guidance.

Kota: "Today, as we celebrate the union of Sasuke and Rose, I cannot help but reflect on the journey that has led us here. My brother, Aqua, and I have traversed treacherous paths together, facing danger head-on and emerging stronger for it. And through it all, it was Sasuke's teachings that guided us, shaping Aqua into the formidable commando he is today."

The guests listened intently as Kota spoke, nodding in agreement at his words of praise for Sasuke's mentorship. As Kota's speech drew to a close, he turned to Aqua, who met his gaze with a knowing nod.

With a determined expression, Kota then turned to Kana, his eyes shining with affection as he took her hand in his.

Kota: "Kana, from the moment I met you, I knew you were someone special. You've stood by me through thick and thin, and I can't imagine facing the future without you by my side. So, on this momentous day, surrounded by our loved ones, I want to ask you to join me on the next chapter of our journey. Will you marry me?"

The room held its breath as all eyes turned to Kana, awaiting her response.

Kana's eyes widened in surprise at Kota's sudden proposal, her cheeks flushing with emotion. She looked at Kota with a mixture of astonishment and joy, her heart swelling with love for him.

Kana: "Kota... Yes, yes, a thousand times yes!"

With tears of happiness streaming down her cheeks, Kana threw her arms around Kota, sealing their engagement with a kiss that spoke volumes of their love and commitment to each other.

The guests erupted into cheers and applause, celebrating the union of two couples on this unforgettable day of love and happiness.

As Kota concluded his heartfelt speech, Naruto's gaze shifted to Ai, his thoughts swirling with conflicting emotions. He pondered whether forgiveness was within reach, but ultimately chose to table his feelings for the time being.

Naruto: "Hold onto hope... Just a little longer."

Turning his attention back to Kota, Naruto's chest swelled with pride as he listened to his son's words.

Naruto: "You've grown into a fine young man, Kota. Your strength and determination make me proud. And Aqua, my other son, has shown remarkable courage and selflessness. Together, you both embody the spirit of perseverance and resilience. I couldn't be prouder of the men you've become."

With a sense of contentment and hope for the future, Naruto looked towards the newly engaged couple, his heart filled with a renewed sense of optimism.

As the speeches concluded, Akane's gaze bore into Aqua, her expression a mix of confusion and irritation.

Akane: "Why were you mentioned so much in their speeches? It's getting annoying."

Aqua felt a pang in his chest, but he managed a faint smile for Akane.

Aqua: "You're right, Akane. I'm nothing special. Don't worry, you won't have to see much of me anymore."

With those words, Aqua quietly slipped out of the hall, leaving behind a puzzled audience.

As Aqua stood on the balcony, cigarette in hand, Naruto appeared beside him, casting a concerned gaze at his son.

Naruto: "Using the Hate Stone on Akane... Are you sure about this, Aqua? It's a heavy burden to bear."

Aqua took a drag from his cigarette, exhaling slowly before responding.

Aqua: "It was my decision, Dad. I've made peace with it. But what about you? Are you prepared for what's to come?"

Naruto furrowed his brow, unsure of what Aqua meant.

Naruto: "What do you mean?"

Aqua took another puff, retrieving another Hate Stone from his pocket and holding it out to Naruto.

Aqua: "Here, another Hate Stone. You can use it on Mom if you want. But I know you won't. Because deep down, you still care for her."

Naruto was left speechless, conflicted by Aqua's words as he pondered his next move.

After their conversation, Aqua walked away, his mind consumed by thoughts of his next steps and how he could find a way back to his own world. Meanwhile, Naruto remained standing on the balcony, speechless and contemplative.

Aqua: "I have to see this story through to the end and ensure it's a good one for everyone involved."

With determination in his heart, Aqua set off to fulfill his mission, leaving Naruto to grapple with the weight of his son's words.

At the reception, friends and family gathered to congratulate Rose and Sasuke on their union. Among them, Ai's presence was notable, accompanied by her two closest friends.

Ai: "It's truly a wonderful occasion, seeing you two finally together."

One of her friends, Alice, chimed in with a hopeful tone.

Alice: "Indeed! But what about you and Naruto, Ai? We all wish to see you both happy again."

Reveal: "Absolutely. We hope you can find your way back to each other."

As the conversation unfolded, Sasuke interjected with insight.

Sasuke: "Ai, that fool is just afraid of being hurt again. But I can tell, he still cares for you deeply. You have a chance to mend things, as there's still love between you."

His words carried a weight of understanding, offering a glimmer of hope for Ai's uncertain heart.

Then Luffy's arrival, Alice couldn't help but express her bewilderment at his messy appearance.

Alice: "Who are you, and why do you have food all over your face?"

However, Luffy remained focused on his mission.

Luffy: "Got any more food? I'm starving."

Ignoring Alice's question, he turned to Sasuke with his request.

Sasuke: "You can ask the chef for more."

Luffy's eyes lit up at the prospect, and he dashed off in search of more food, leaving Alice irritated by his disregard.

Alice: "Who does he think he is? Ignoring me like that."

Sasuke chuckled at Alice's annoyance and provided some insight into Luffy's identity.

Sasuke: "That's Luffy, also known as the Light Emperor of the Military. He's more of a food enthusiast than anything else."

Meanwhile, Raveal observed Ichigo, who was enjoying his drink alone.

Raveal: "He's certainly the first person to get under Alice's skin. And who's that guy enjoying Scotch by himself?"

Sasuke filled in the details about Ichigo's identity.

Sasuke: "That's Ichigo, known as the Hollow Breather of the Military."

Raveal's gaze lingered on Ichigo as he contemplated the revelation.

Raveal: "Ichigo... You mean Ichigo Kurosaki? I know him. I was actually the reason he faced so much bullying in college. He confessed to me in our third year, and when I turned him down, people started tormenting him because of his weight."

Sasuke was surprised to learn about Ichigo's past struggles, especially considering his current well-built physique.

Sasuke: "Ichigo was bullied? That's unexpected. I've known him since birth, and he's been an orphan for as long as I can remember. But why did you reject him, Raveal?"

Raveal took a moment to collect her thoughts before responding.

Raveal: "We were close friends, and I was drawn to his kindness. But I had my own aspirations and dreams of becoming the best actress. I couldn't let anything distract me from that."

As Raveal spoke, tears welled up in her eyes, revealing the weight of her regret over her past decisions. Ai, sensing her distress, offered some words of wisdom.

Ai: "Raveal, because of me and Naruto, Aqua made a decision to stay away from Akane. Please don't dwell on your feelings any longer. You'll only end up hurting yourself, and there may not be a second chance in life."

Rose, Sasuke, Ai, and Alice gathered around Raveal, offering words of comfort and support.

Rose: "Raveal, we all have regrets, but dwelling on them won't change the past. What matters is how we move forward."

Sasuke: "You're not alone, Raveal. We're here for you."

Ai: "Don't let the weight of your past choices crush you, Raveal. Use them as lessons to shape your future."

Alice: "You're stronger than you realize, Raveal. We believe in you."

Raveal nodded, feeling the warmth of their support enveloping her like a comforting embrace. She knew that with their encouragement, she could find the strength to overcome her regrets and forge a brighter path forward.