216-220

*Chapter 216: The Rebirth Grounds! *

Two shocking pieces of news spread from Konoha Village.

The first was an official announcement:

Shimura Danzo had officially become the Fifth Hokage!

The second, however, was far more intriguing.

The last surviving member of the Uchiha clan, Sasuke Uchiha, had disrupted the inauguration ceremony of the Fifth Hokage and was subsequently imprisoned in the Konoha detention facility, awaiting sentencing.

For most people, this second piece of news was easy to overlook.

But...

Someone who learned about it fell silent, their expression growing grim.

---

*Land of Rain*

A certain location.

Nearly ten shadowy figures were gathered.

“Itachi, don’t act rashly about your brother. This could very well be bait set by Konoha,” said a cold, composed female voice.

The speaker was a purple-haired woman—none other than Konan of the Akatsuki organization.

At this moment, everyone in the meeting wore black cloaks adorned with red clouds, and all eyes were focused on a figure with crimson Sharingan eyes.

“Whether it’s bait or not, I’m going,” Itachi Uchiha said in a low, resolute voice that allowed no room for refusal. Everyone could feel his determination.

“Itachi, something about recent events feels off. Based on the intelligence I’ve gathered, Orochimaru, who betrayed our organization, has mysteriously disappeared. Even Zetsu, who handles our information-gathering and communication, remains missing. Heading to Konoha now would be reckless,” spoke Pain in his usual commanding tone.

With his words, everyone’s attention shifted toward him.

“I’ll capture the Nine-Tails from Konoha,” Itachi responded, sidestepping Pain’s concerns and steering the conversation toward the Jinchuriki.

“The Five-Tails hasn’t fully re-formed yet. This isn’t the right time to hunt Tailed Beasts,” Pain countered, his Rinnegan fixed on Itachi, his gaze radiating a faint light.

“I must go to Konoha,” Itachi insisted, his Mangekyō Sharingan gleaming coldly as he locked eyes with Pain, leaving no doubt about his stance.

“I understand,” Pain finally said, his face impassive. After a brief pause, he asked, “Will you return?”

“If I survive,” Itachi replied, his voice heavy with contemplation.

He wasn’t sure what Sasuke had learned. However, Sasuke’s disruption of the Fifth Hokage’s inauguration indicated he might have uncovered something about the past.

How much he knew was uncertain.

But one thing was clear:

Itachi had to return to Konoha.

“Go, then,” Pain said, gazing deeply at Itachi. He knew he couldn’t stop him, so he relented.

After all, forcing someone’s hand seldom ends well.

Now was not the time for an assault on Konoha.

The Akatsuki could not accompany Itachi, so he would have to go alone.

“Thank you,” Itachi said courteously before stepping out.

“I’ll go with you, Itachi-san,” Kisame Hoshigaki said, his words deliberate as if savoring each one.

Without waiting for Pain’s approval, Kisame moved to follow Itachi.

“Alright,” Itachi responded flatly, and the two walked side by side, disappearing from sight.

“Pain, about Kisame...” Konan glanced at Pain, concerned. She felt letting Kisame go with Itachi was a waste.

“Let him go,” Pain said, his Rinnegan fixed on the direction Kisame had left. He understood Kisame’s alignment had always been somewhat different from his own.

In some ways, Pain believed Kisame was more of a subordinate to the masked man claiming to be Madara Uchiha.

---

*Meanwhile, in Konoha*

Sasuke sat atop the Second Hokage’s head on the Hokage Rock, gazing at his system interface.

*Current system points: 21,341.*

Sasuke stared at the number before him.

Ever since purchasing Kotoamatsukami, he hadn’t paid much attention to his points.

Now, thanks to daily point accumulation and his actions during Danzo’s inauguration, his points had surpassed 20,000 again.

“Kotoamatsukami is still on cooldown. For now, there’s nothing pressing to spend these points on. I’ll hold onto them and wait for the right moment,” Sasuke thought as he gazed at the brilliant night sky, contemplating his next moves.

With a flicker, he activated the Flying Thunder God Technique, vanishing from the spot and reappearing in the Uchiha district.

For now, Danzo had fully assumed power as the Fifth Hokage, bringing Konoha back to a state of relative stability after a period of turmoil.

Because of Danzo’s influence, Sasuke had refrained from taking on any missions, opting to stay in the village and await someone’s arrival.

Likewise, Naruto and Sakura had also abstained from missions, focusing instead on training under Jiraiya and Tsunade, respectively.

---

A few days later.

On a path leading to Konoha, two men clad in black cloaks with red clouds walked slowly, wearing wide-brimmed hats.

It was none other than Itachi Uchiha and Kisame Hoshigaki.

“Mr. Itachi, after this matter is resolved, do you have any plans? Are you thinking of returning to the Akatsuki?”

Kisame asked earnestly. He genuinely cared for and respected Uchiha Itachi.

“We’ll talk about it when the time comes,” Itachi replied.

He didn’t directly answer Kisame’s question because it was a difficult one for him at the moment.

“Alright,” Kisame nodded, dropping the subject. He then raised his eyes to the main gate of Konoha ahead.

“Are we really just going to walk in like this?”

Kisame couldn’t help but ask. Despite his formidable strength, strolling right in felt a bit out of character for a rogue ninja.

“Of course not!”

However—

At that moment—

A slightly mocking voice echoed, and it didn’t belong to the Uchiha Itachi standing beside him.

“Who’s there?”

Kisame’s wide eyes grew even larger, filled with surprise.

Whoosh!  

A figure suddenly appeared in front of them, dressed in blue—Uchiha Sasuke.

*+30*

A number floated before Sasuke’s eyes, ticking upward.

“It’s been a while,” Sasuke said, glancing at Kisame before shifting his gaze to Itachi.

Both were familiar faces.

The last time they met had been at the borders of the Land of Fire.

*+40*

The number in Sasuke’s vision continued to climb.

“So it’s you!” Kisame exclaimed. His excitement deflated almost instantly upon seeing Sasuke.

It seemed—

Today’s fight wouldn’t involve him after all.

The rumors of the younger brother being imprisoned were obviously false.

“Mr. Itachi, what do you plan to do?” Kisame asked instinctively.

As soon as the question left his lips, he realized how pointless it was. Without saying more, he vanished with a leap, landing atop a nearby tree. His sharp eyes studied the brothers below.

He decided to leave this one to them.

Perched on a branch, Kisame’s expression was one of resignation. He had come to help Itachi partly because he genuinely wanted to and partly because he was itching for a good fight.

“Sasuke, what do you know?”

Itachi’s eyes locked onto Sasuke’s. He didn’t deliberately hide his intentions but neither did he explicitly reveal his plans.

“Itachi, I know everything about you.”

Sasuke repeated the line he always felt carried immense weight.

That’s right!

I understand you completely!

You don’t need to shoulder everything alone!

*+50*

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes surged upward again.

“Sasuke, if that’s the case, save it for when you have eyes like mine,” Itachi said, his expression hardening.

His Sharingan spun, transforming into the shuriken-like pattern of the Mangekyō Sharingan.

In truth, Itachi wasn’t genuinely angry.

He simply didn’t want to hear his brother claim to understand him so easily.

At that moment, he couldn’t gauge how much Sasuke truly knew.

After all, the current Hokage was Danzo Shimura, someone who genuinely understood the events of the past.

“Sasuke, how far can your eyes see?”

As Sasuke spoke, his dark pupils underwent a startling transformation, revealing the six-pointed star pattern of the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan.

*+60*

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes spiked dramatically once more, gaining another boost.

“Your eyes?!”

A flash of astonishment crossed Itachi’s gaze. He hadn’t anticipated that Sasuke’s Sharingan would evolve into the Mangekyō so quickly.

It was too fast!

How much time had passed since their last encounter?

“What have you been through during this time?”

Itachi’s tone carried a mix of concern and pain. He knew very well the kind of trauma required to awaken the Mangekyō Sharingan.

It demanded the intense emotional shock of losing someone dear.

Now, with Sasuke standing alone, no family remained. The only explanation Itachi could think of was something happening to Sasuke’s friends.

What exactly had happened?

A large question mark loomed in Itachi’s mind. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he had missed a lot during this time.

It seemed Sasuke’s life in Konoha wasn’t as simple or straightforward as he had imagined.

“Itachi!”

“The past doesn’t matter!”

“People can’t live in the past forever!”

“The future is what’s important!”

“I’m here now because I have something to tell you!”

*"About the Future!"*

Sasuke's eyes locked onto Itachi. Now, his vision had reached the level of the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan. Coupled with his SSS-level illusion attribute, he was completely immune to Itachi's Tsukuyomi.

This wasn't to say that Itachi's power was weak.

It was simply a matter of a difference in level.

Itachi only possessed the ordinary Mangekyo Sharingan, which couldn't compare to Sasuke's Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan in terms of sheer capability.

Moreover, Sasuke's illusion attribute had reached an unparalleled height.

This created an innate immunity.

*+70*

The numbers in Sasuke's vision jumped again.

Itachi's eyes studied Sasuke. Just moments ago, he had attempted to pull Sasuke into the world of Tsukuyomi, but nothing happened.

It felt as if he were casting illusions into thin air.

"Kisame."

"You may return to the Akatsuki."

"Itachi won't be going back with you."

Sasuke's tone was detached as he addressed Kisame, harboring no strong feelings toward him.

He neither liked nor disliked Kisame.

After all, Kisame was, in some sense, a true man of honor.

*+80*

The numbers in Sasuke's vision jumped once again.

"Hm?"

Kisame listened to Sasuke's words with indifference, as though he were humoring a child's ramblings.

Then, Kisame turned to Itachi, his gaze carrying a questioning glint as if asking:

"Does Sasuke speak for you?"

However—

Sasuke didn’t give Kisame the time or opportunity to deliberate.

With a single step forward, Sasuke raised his hand, lightning-fast, and aimed for Itachi's shoulder.

"Itachi."

"This isn't the place for a conversation."

"Let’s talk somewhere else."

*Slap!*

Before Itachi could react, Sasuke's hand moved with such speed that the two of them disappeared on the spot.

The *Flying Thunder God Technique*!

Sasuke had just executed the Flying Thunder God Technique.

The area was left with Kisame sitting alone on a tree branch, dazed, his eyes wide with astonishment. He had no idea what had just happened.

How did they suddenly vanish?

Both of them were just gone!

"Are these brothers messing with me?"

Kisame sat there, bewildered, staring at the spot where the two had disappeared for a full three minutes.

They were truly gone!

Nowhere to be seen!

"It seems Itachi-sama really won't be returning this time," Kisame murmured as he slowly stood up.

He had a powerful feeling—a deep instinct, primal and undeniable.

---

*Scene Transition*

The view shifted.

Sasuke and Itachi reappeared directly within the Uchiha Clan compound, back at the place they once called home.

"This is…"

Itachi's gaze trembled slightly. He had thought he would never set foot here again, yet today, here he was, revisiting the past.

"Welcome to the Uchiha Clan's grounds," Sasuke said, his eyes fixed on the entrance gate. His expression was calm, devoid of any emotional fluctuation.

*+90*

The numbers in Sasuke's vision jumped again.

The events of that year were now nothing more than memories.

The rights and wrongs no longer mattered as much.

The person standing before him—

At least in this world—

Was the one who had treated him with the most genuine care.

No exceptions.

Whether it was Naruto, Kakashi, or even Sakura, who was wholeheartedly devoted to him, none of them came close to Itachi when it came to sincerity.

"So, this is the grave you’ve chosen for me?"

Itachi sneered, still believing Sasuke had brought him here to settle their feud.

"No."

Sasuke shook his head, suddenly turning to face Itachi. With a flick of his wrist, a small vial appeared in his hand.

Inside the vial—

A single eye floated.

A Mangekyo Sharingan.

*+100*

The numbers in Sasuke's vision surged upward.

"This is…"

Itachi's pupils contracted sharply. He recognized that eye. It was one he could never forget.

His closest friend.

Shisui Uchiha's eye!

"How did you get this eye?"

Itachi’s mind raced with questions as he looked at Sasuke, his gaze filled with a mix of shock and disbelief.

This younger brother of his—

The one he thought he had entirely under his control—

Now seemed unfathomable.

"This is the place of your rebirth," Sasuke declared, gripping Shisui's eye tightly but not handing it over to Itachi just yet.

He knew Itachi wouldn't fully listen to him right now.

*+110*

As Sasuke spoke, the numbers in his vision climbed again. His words struck a chord deep within Itachi's mind.

"What exactly are you trying to say?"

Itachi’s voice lost some of its composure as he realized their roles had reversed.

He was no longer the one in control.

Now, he was the one struggling to understand.

(End of Chapter)  

Chapter 217: I Am Your New Light!

“Uchiha Itachi!”

“You’ve done so much for the Village Hidden in the Leaves!”

“You were even praised by the Third Hokage as someone with the mindset of a Hokage!”

“In that case...”

“I want you to do something for the village.”

“This is not just for the Hidden Leaf but also to atone for the sins of the Uchiha clan with your very life!”

Sasuke’s calm eyes locked onto Itachi. At this moment, from every angle, Sasuke had the upper hand over his brother.

Their strength had already diverged to an entirely different level.

*+120*

The numbers in front of Sasuke continued to climb.

“Sasuke, you’ve said so many pointless things. Ultimately, you’re still here for revenge, aren’t you? But with your current strength, you’re still too weak.”

Itachi’s heart was filled with astonishment.

He couldn’t understand why Sasuke had suddenly become so unfamiliar.

This brother of his was no longer under his control.

But...

No matter what...

He was still his foolish little brother!

“Sasuke!”

“Enough with the nonsense!”

“Since you now possess the Mangekyō Sharingan...”

“You should know...”

“The more you use the Mangekyō Sharingan, the worse your vision will become, eventually leading to total blindness.”

“But there’s a way to prevent this!”

“And that is...”

Itachi’s eyes narrowed as he prepared to deliver the long-rehearsed speech. Yet, just as he began, Sasuke interrupted him.

“Actually, there are two methods.”

“One is to transplant another pair of Mangekyō Sharingan.”

“The other is to obtain cells from the First Hokage, Hashirama Senju!”

“Both methods...”

“I can provide for you!”

“That’s right!”

“I am your new light!”

Sasuke preemptively stole Itachi’s lines. When he finished speaking, Itachi was utterly dumbfounded.

*+130*

At the same time, the points in front of Sasuke’s eyes surged again.

Itachi stared blankly at Sasuke.

What was happening?

Mind-reading?

How did he even beat him to the punch?

“I told you, I know everything about you. Now, two paths lie before you.”

Sasuke continued speaking, raising one finger.

“The first path.”

“Obey me and cooperate.”

“Complete the tasks I demand in accordance with my will.”

“But...”

“I think my stubborn and arrogant brother wouldn’t be so compliant!”

“And so...”

As Sasuke spoke, he raised a second finger.

“I’ve thoughtfully prepared a second path for you!”

“Fight me.”

“We’ll stop when you admit defeat!”

“Don’t worry.”

“Whether it’s the first path or the second, I won’t harm you. After all, you’re the only family I have left in this world!”

*+140*

Sasuke’s tone was cold and severe, giving off an unsettling vibe.

The Itachi before him was clearly someone who cared deeply for him.

Yet, he refused to admit it!

If that was the case, Sasuke would have to force him to confess!

“My foolish little brother, you’re still too weak. Even if you try to provoke me with your so-called first path, you’re no match for me!”

Itachi smirked coldly.

He didn’t believe Sasuke truly intended to give him a choice but rather saw it as mere posturing.

“Then let’s fight!”

Itachi reached out from under his Akatsuki cloak, unfastened two buttons with a soft click, and hooked his wrist over them.

His stance seemed to say:

This is all I need to deal with you.  

*Whoosh!*

At that moment, Itachi’s Mangekyō Sharingan gleamed with an eerie light. The glimmer lasted only an instant, leaving no visible effect.

“Itachi, no matter what, I’m still an Uchiha. There’s no point in using genjutsu against me in a fight,” Sasuke said flatly.

Itachi had intended to drag Sasuke into a genjutsu realm for a battle of wills.

While Sasuke could have engaged in that contest, it held no value.

Such tactics were dull.

They were brothers, after all!

It was far more interesting to fight with real weapons and raw strength!

*+150*

The points on Sasuke’s system interface continued to rise.

As he spoke, Sasuke flicked his wrist, revealing four or five Flying Thunder God kunai, which he hurled toward Itachi.

To show respect for Itachi...

And to make the fight more engaging for him...

He began by tossing a few kunai!

As Sasuke had anticipated.

The moment Itachi saw the kunai Sasuke threw, he suddenly leapt backward, extending his left hand to throw a flurry of shuriken.

Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang!  

The shuriken collided with the kunai, producing crisp metallic sounds before clattering to the ground.

Whoosh!  

After a brief test of their skills, Sasuke suddenly shifted his ankle and charged at Itachi with incredible speed.

"You're still as reckless as ever!"

Itachi didn’t dodge. With astonishing speed, he threw another barrage of shuriken.

The sky seemed to fill with shuriken, like an endless ocean.

The overwhelming attack blocked Sasuke’s path.

Whoosh!  

Suddenly—

Sasuke’s figure flickered and vanished, reappearing instantly beside Itachi.

Raising his hand—

He grabbed Itachi’s arm.

With a swift motion, he lifted his leg—

Boom!  

Sasuke delivered a powerful kick to Itachi’s body, sending him flying. The force smashed Itachi into a wall of the house, collapsing it outward.

*+160*

Numbers flickered before Sasuke’s eyes.

“Flying Thunder God Technique!”

A hint of surprise flashed through Itachi’s eyes, but deep down, they held admiration and pride.

“So, it was the Flying Thunder God seal from earlier!”

Itachi glanced at his shoulder. He hadn’t even noticed when Sasuke had placed the Flying Thunder God mark on him.

It seems Sasuke has truly grown.

Impressive.

Knowing how to plant a Flying Thunder God seal on the enemy at just the right moment!

Itachi hadn’t expected Sasuke to master the Flying Thunder God Technique. The last time he’d seen this jutsu was with the Fourth Hokage.

However…

Itachi felt genuinely happy that Sasuke had learned the Flying Thunder God Technique. After all, mastering such a technique meant Sasuke’s life would be much safer.

Could Sasuke’s escape from prison be thanks to the Flying Thunder God Technique?

In that moment, countless thoughts raced through Itachi’s mind.

The next moment, he regained his focus.

“Looks like I need to take this more seriously!”

Excitement appeared on Itachi’s face. He seemed as though he had met a true rival, though in reality, he was pleased with Sasuke’s progress.

Clack, clack, clack…  

Itachi tore off his Akatsuki cloak, tossing it aside, revealing his ninja attire underneath.

He formed hand seals.

Not too fast, but not slow either.

“Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu!”

After forming the seals, Itachi concentrated chakra in his throat and exhaled a massive fireball. The fireball shot through the hole in the collapsed wall, heading straight for Sasuke.

Boom! Boom! Boom!  

The Great Fireball tore through the remnants of the house’s walls, surging toward Sasuke with immense power.

Sasuke watched the incoming fireball, his expression unchanging.

He swiftly formed two sets of hand seals.

“Water Style: Water Formation Wall!”

Sasuke also gathered chakra in his throat and exhaled a waterfall-like torrent of water. The water spiraled into a rotating wall, creating a circular, all-encompassing defense around him.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!  

The fireball collided with the water wall, creating clouds of steam that quickly rose into the air.

The steam filled the space, obscuring their vision.

*+170*

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes jumped again.

“Sasuke, you’ve even mastered Water Style Jutsu. You’re stronger than I imagined.”

Itachi’s voice carried a tone of genuine admiration. Through the mist, his Mangekyo Sharingan locked onto Sasuke.

In that case…

Continuing with Fire Style techniques would be meaningless.

Itachi could clearly sense Sasuke’s mastery of the Water Formation Wall.

As long as that Water Formation Wall was active—

No Fire Style technique could harm him.

Impressive.

Itachi silently praised Sasuke once again, though he didn’t voice his thoughts.

“Sasuke, can you block the flames of Amaterasu?”

As he spoke, Itachi closed his left eye and widened his right. A streak of blood-tears flowed from the corner of his eye.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!  

Suddenly, black flames appeared out of nowhere, igniting the water wall surrounding Sasuke.

Sizzle! Sizzle! Sizzle!  

A strange scene unfolded.

The water spinning around Sasuke was now burning with black flames.

The black fire consumed the water, sending clouds of steam into the air.

Swoosh!  

Sasuke casually waved his hand, tossing the burning water aside. He let the black flames burn on the water, gazing calmly at Itachi with an unshaken expression.

“Itachi.”

"If all you’ve got are illusions and Amaterasu, then you’re out of tricks."

"Now, it’s my turn!"

Sasuke’s demeanor was incredibly imposing, showing no sign of putting Itachi in his eyes.

*+180*

The numbers in front of Sasuke’s eyes flickered once again.

Zzzzz…  

As Sasuke spoke, bluish-purple lightning surged around his entire body, forming a layer of armor made of electricity.

*Lightning Release Chakra Mode activated!*

"Itachi!"

"Don’t worry!"

"I won’t kill you!"

Sasuke once again emphasized that he wouldn’t take Itachi’s life. In an instant, he used the Flying Thunder God Technique and appeared right beside his brother.

Itachi’s eyes shifted slightly, and a black flame erupted, blazing directly toward Sasuke.

Zzzzz…  

Lightning radiated from Sasuke’s body as he dodged the Amaterasu with a single flicker of movement.

Raising his fist—

He struck directly at Itachi!

*So fast!*

Shock flickered in Itachi’s eyes. At this moment, he was genuinely stunned.

Sasuke’s physical skills had reached an astonishing level.

In Itachi’s memory, only the Raikage had this level of mastery in taijutsu.

If that punch landed…

Itachi feared he would lose the ability to fight!

"So, after all these years, your main focus has been taijutsu!"

Although Itachi now took Sasuke seriously, he showed no hint of it on his face.

*How strange!*

A proud Uchiha—

Instead of mastering genjutsu and ninjutsu, he’s developed taijutsu that rivals the Raikage’s!

As Sasuke’s brother, this revelation genuinely surprised him!

In an instant—

Itachi’s Mangekyō Sharingan gleamed with an ominous light as orange-red chakra emanated from his body.

The nearly tangible chakra formed into ribs, blocking Sasuke’s punch.

*Boom!*

Sasuke’s fist slammed into Itachi’s Susanoo. The immense force sent Itachi flying backward, smashing the Susanoo into a building behind him, toppling half of the structure.

Wood and bricks from the building rained down on Itachi’s Susanoo—

But it didn’t harm him in the slightest.

"Sasuke!"

"This is my power!"

"Do you see it now?"

Itachi's voice was filled with excitement. However, his excitement wasn’t because of his own power, but because of Sasuke's strength.

Sasuke's progress made him feel proud.

His time was running out.

Before his death, seeing Sasuke grow and develop the ability to protect himself in this chaotic ninja world gave him peace of mind.

"Hoo... Hoo... Hoo..."

Itachi’s Susanoo began to grow veins and flesh, and a tengu mask formed on its head, entering the third form of Susanoo.

"Let me see how tough your Susanoo really is!"

The corners of Sasuke’s mouth curved into a slight smirk. Maintaining his Lightning Release Chakra Mode, his entire body emitted a green energy aura.

"Eight Gates."

"The Sixth Gate."

"Gate of View..."

"Open!"

Sasuke’s body was instantly enveloped in powerful chakra, forming a spherical layer of energy around him.

The Lightning Release Armor disappeared.

All of his chakra concentrated into his fists.

Now, Sasuke’s fists were empowered by both Lightning Release Chakra and the Gate of View.

Whoosh!  

Sasuke took a single step, launching himself into the air. He stood in midair, looking down at the Uchiha Clan's compound.

Behind the somewhat dilapidated clan leader’s residence was an orange-red Susanoo.

"Morning Peacock!"

Sasuke's fists moved with lightning speed toward Itachi's Susanoo. The friction of his punches against the air generated flames, which rained down on the Susanoo like a storm.

+190  

The number flashed before Sasuke’s eyes again.

"Not good!"

Surprise flashed across Itachi's eyes. He never expected his foolish little brother to be a taijutsu master.

Suddenly—

The Susanoo raised a shield, lifting it to block the rain of flames descending from above.

"Yata Mirror!"

Itachi shouted, raising the shield.

Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!  

The fiery rain struck the shield like a downpour but failed to shatter the Yata Mirror. Instead, the flames scattered across the Uchiha Clan’s compound, igniting a raging inferno in several buildings.

"Impressive!"

A hint of admiration flickered in Sasuke’s eyes. At this moment, it almost seemed as though he were the one testing Itachi.

"Then try this move!"

The veins on Sasuke's face bulged even more intensely, and the green chakra surrounding him transformed into blue steam.

"The Seventh Gate."

"Gate of Wonder..."

"Open!"

Sasuke instantly opened the Seventh Gate, and without any hesitation, brought his hands together in a strange pose.

He fixed his gaze on Itachi’s Susanoo.

"Itachi!"

"Let’s see if you can withstand this!"

Sasuke thrust both hands forward at blinding speed. The immense force compressed the air, shaping it into a roaring white tiger.

"Daytime Tiger!"

(To be continued)  

*Chapter 218: Sasuke's Plan! *

+200

The numbers in front of Sasuke's eyes suddenly began to flicker and jump.

Immediately after,

a massive white tiger descended from the sky, charging straight toward Itachi's Susano'o. The sheer force of its attack displaced the surrounding air with an audible roar.

"Sasuke!"

"You're even stronger than I imagined!"

"You’re worthy of fighting me now!"

Itachi’s expression turned wild. He had never anticipated Sasuke's growth to be so rapid.

Seeing Sasuke in his current state,

Itachi couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride.

It seems...

I can leave in peace now.

Itachi controlled his Susano'o, raising the Yata Mirror once more to meet the charging tiger's attack.

In an instant,

Sasuke’s tiger clashed with Itachi’s Susano'o, creating a deafening collision.

*BOOM!!!!*

A terrifying wave of energy rippled outward, spreading from the point of impact in a powerful shockwave.

*RUMBLE!*

The entire ground of Konoha Village trembled violently.

At that moment,

villagers turned their heads toward the direction of the Uchiha clan. Their eyes were filled with shock.

What was happening?

The overwhelming tremor was far too intense!

Question marks popped into everyone’s minds. They had no idea what had just transpired, nor could they guess the cause.

*Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!*

One after another, Konoha’s elite jonin swiftly headed toward the Uchiha district.

Whatever was happening,

it was Konoha’s problem,

and it was their duty to investigate.

*BOOM!!!*

Under the intense shockwaves, the Uchiha district was leveled completely.

The once elaborate structures vanished without a trace.

Not even splinters or rubble remained—the devastating collision had wiped everything away.

Itachi’s Susano'o began to tremble, losing the solidity it once had. Its transparency grew more pronounced, revealing its weakened state.

"Sasuke, you’ve truly surprised me!"

Itachi controlled his Susano'o and abruptly drew a translucent spirit sword—the Totsuka Blade.

"Now, facing this Totsuka Blade, what will you do?"

Itachi’s gaze bore into Sasuke. He had no intention of sealing Sasuke; he simply wanted to see what other surprises Sasuke could bring.

"Itachi."

"Do you still intend to be stubborn?"

"The gap between us..."

"...is beyond what your eyes can comprehend!"

As Sasuke descended, he opened his system interface mid-air. He added points to his physical stats, fully replenishing his energy.

Not just physical attributes—

he also allocated points to mental stats, recovering all his chakra in the process.

*Thud!*

The moment Sasuke's feet touched the ground, he had returned to his peak condition.

*Swoosh!*

As Sasuke landed, Itachi’s Susano'o swung the orange Totsuka Blade straight toward him.

*Buzz!*

Sasuke’s body erupted with purple chakra,

thick and tangible, forming skeletal and muscular structures.

*Susano'o!*

Sasuke unleashed his own Susano'o!

His Susano'o materialized rapidly, topped with a tengu mask.

The same third form.

The same immense size.

This sight shook Itachi to his core. He had assumed Sasuke specialized in taijutsu.

But now it was clear that Sasuke hadn’t neglected the development of his Sharingan either.

Recalling Sasuke's earlier use of such a powerful water-style jutsu, and how he wasn’t affected by genjutsu—

It all made sense.

Sasuke was evolving into a versatile powerhouse!

+210

The numbers in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped again, his points continuing to climb.

*Swoosh!*

After Sasuke’s Susano'o fully formed, Itachi’s Susano'o brought the Totsuka Blade down upon it.

“Yata Mirror!”

Sasuke shouted. Though he didn’t need to yell, his words were aimed at Itachi.

*Buzz!*

Sasuke’s Susano'o raised its left hand, manifesting a round, purple shield identical to the Yata Mirror wielded by Itachi's Susano'o.

*BOOM!!!*

The Totsuka Blade collided with the Yata Mirror, triggering another massive shockwave. The already-ruined Uchiha district was flattened even further, and a massive crater formed beneath their feet.

+220

The numbers in front of Sasuke's eyes surged once again.

"Itachi."

“Now can you finally listen to me seriously?”

“We’ve all got Gundams now!”

Sasuke’s voice turned serious. He understood that unless he demonstrated strength that Itachi deemed worthy, his brother wouldn’t take the time to listen to him properly.

After all, in Itachi’s eyes, Sasuke was nothing more than a foolish little brother.

“Gundams?”

Itachi didn’t quite grasp the term Sasuke used. However, he took a long, thoughtful look at Sasuke’s Susanoo technique. Gradually, his emotions calmed.

“Sasuke, I’m ready to tell you everything I know.”

Itachi took a deep breath, acknowledging Sasuke’s strength. The orange-red glow of his Susanoo dissipated as he dropped his most powerful defense and stood vulnerable before Sasuke.

He wasn’t afraid of Sasuke seizing the opportunity to kill him.

In fact, if lowering his Susanoo meant dying at Sasuke’s hands, it might even feel like a form of liberation to him.

Deep down, Itachi had always hoped for the ideal outcome: to die by his little brother’s hand.

**Swish!**

At almost the exact same moment, Sasuke’s Susanoo also vanished. The two of them stood face-to-face.

Neither of them bore any significant injuries.

But...

The Uchiha clan was no more.

“Sasuke, what do you want to say to me?”

Itachi’s eyes fixed intently on Sasuke. He was deeply curious about his younger brother, as though Sasuke had become a puzzle full of secrets.

He wanted to uncover those secrets!

“This isn’t the right place to talk.”

Sasuke shook his head. He had already sensed numerous people rushing toward their location. It wouldn’t be long before they arrived.

“Let’s go somewhere else to talk.”

Sasuke stepped forward, closing the gap between them. He raised his hand, reaching for Itachi’s wrist.

Itachi didn’t move to evade or resist; he trusted Sasuke completely.

**Whoosh!**

In a flash, both of their figures disappeared.

---

Moments Later

The two reappeared in a room.

This room...

Itachi recognized it immediately.

The Hokage’s Office!

In the brief instant before they teleported, Itachi had expected they’d end up in some secluded forest or a hidden meeting spot. Never did he imagine they’d go straight to the Hokage’s Office.

What shocked him even more...

Seated in the Hokage’s chair was someone dressed in the Hokage’s robes.

The Fifth Hokage, Danzo Shimura.

“Sasuke…”

Itachi’s heart tensed up immediately. He knew all too well that Danzo was the mastermind behind everything that had happened. But he couldn’t openly accuse Danzo in his presence.

For a moment, unease filled his mind.

He feared Sasuke might be deceived or manipulated by Danzo.

With Sasuke’s current power, any misdirection could have disastrous consequences.

However...

What happened next was something Itachi never could have predicted.

And it was a moment he would never forget.

As soon as Danzo saw Sasuke, an expression of pure reverence filled his single eye.

He abruptly stood up.

Then approached Sasuke.

And dropped to one knee.

“Sasuke-sama!”

Danzo’s voice was filled with unwavering devotion, his demeanor utterly reverent.

---

*+300*

A glowing number appeared in Sasuke’s vision, rising rapidly with a greater intensity.

Itachi was utterly stunned!

“Sasuke, what is going on here?”

The number of question marks in Itachi’s mind multiplied exponentially. He needed an explanation—a clear one that he could understand.

“Danzo, prepare a private, secure room where no one will disturb us.”

Sasuke didn’t address Itachi’s question just yet.

The Hokage’s Office was far too public.

Ninjas coming and going on missions, advisors discussing critical matters of Konoha—this was no place for a private conversation.

If anything critical slipped out here, all his efforts thus far would have been for nothing.

“In one-six-one-nine…”

“Yes, of course!”

Danzo immediately obeyed, stepping out to make arrangements.

Sasuke glanced at Itachi, signaling him to follow.

Without hesitation, they both proceeded.

The two of them followed behind Danzo as he walked out.

Itachi's gaze stayed fixed on Danzo’s back. The current situation was becoming increasingly incomprehensible to him.

He couldn’t make sense of it at all!

He had no idea what was going on!

What was happening?!

Originally, he thought everything was within his control—that he was an uninvolved observer, detached from the events. Now, he realized that wasn’t the case.

Danzo led Sasuke and Itachi to the underground area of the Hokage's office, going deeper and deeper.

Gradually, they arrived at a dimly lit place.

It was very deep.

“This is the Root Organization’s base. No one comes here, and no one will speak of seeing you. You can talk freely in my former office,” Danzo explained, describing the location as he brought them into a sealed room.

The surroundings were entirely made of black stone.

No one would disturb them.

“Alright,” Sasuke said, glancing around the room. He thought this was indeed a good place for a conversation.

“Danzo, you can leave now. The Uchiha clan has undergone a major conflict. As Hokage, you know what to do, don’t you?” Sasuke gave Danzo a deep look.

“I understand. I’ll take responsibility!” Danzo bowed deeply, then retreated, leaving the space to the Uchiha brothers.

Sasuke nodded silently.

Danzo was becoming more and more cooperative!

His willingness to take responsibility was so smooth and practiced that it could be the title of a book:

How a Shadow Takes Responsibility.  

“Sasuke, what’s going on?” Itachi could no longer suppress the doubts in his heart. His eyes locked onto Sasuke.

It was time to talk.

There was no chance of anyone interrupting here.

So...

Hurry up and say it!

“It’s a long story…” Sasuke’s face remained emotionless, exuding a cold, aloof demeanor.

“Then start with Danzo.”

“You’ve probably already heard the rumors about me disrupting the Fifth Hokage’s inauguration ceremony,” Sasuke began seriously. “At that time, I cast a genjutsu on Danzo.”

Itachi’s heart tensed at those words.

Indeed.

His younger brother had even mastered the art of genjutsu so thoroughly.

A true prodigy!

Itachi always knew he was a genius and that his younger brother would also be one. But now that Sasuke had surpassed him, Itachi felt no jealousy—only pride and excitement.

This feeling, perhaps, could only be truly understood by elder brothers in the Uchiha clan!

Itachi didn’t even feel this much joy about his own achievements.

But for Sasuke...

It was a completely different matter!

Still...

What kind of genjutsu could be so powerful?

To make Danzo so obedient, behaving like a servant?

Could it be...

A wild thought crossed Itachi’s mind—a thought so outrageous he could hardly believe it.

“Kotoamatsukami.”

Sasuke slowly uttered the name. As the words left his lips, Itachi’s eyes widened in shock.

+200

Sasuke’s display panel showed the number rising again, this time starting at 100 points and instantly doubling.

Or rather...

This wasn’t just an increase—it was the stand-alone flair effect of Kotoamatsukami!

Itachi’s eyes first showed deep astonishment. Then, recovering from the shock, he nodded silently.

As expected.

It really was Kotoamatsukami!

Only Kotoamatsukami could achieve such an effect!

But...

“Sasuke, how do you know how to use Kotoamatsukami?” Itachi asked, voicing his doubts. In truth, he had countless questions.

But he couldn’t ask them all at once.

He could only tackle them one by one.

"This is the power of my eyes!"

Sasuke pointed to his Mangekyō Sharingan, offering no further explanation.

*+250*

The numbers before Sasuke's eyes began to fluctuate.

"Of course!"

Itachi grinned. He suddenly felt that his earlier question was a bit foolish—like asking why he himself could use Tsukuyomi.

This was simply the power of the Mangekyō Sharingan!

"Sasuke, why did you ask me to meet you here? What exactly is going on?"

Itachi chose to drop the topic of Danzo. For now, Danzo was on Sasuke’s side and held control over Konoha, which gave Itachi a sense of relief.

"I have many things to discuss with you," Sasuke replied, raising a single finger and gesturing in front of Itachi.

"Naturally."

"But the most important matter is this."

"I want to heal your body and your eyes."

"I already mentioned this earlier."

"I am your new light!"

Before Sasuke could finish his words, Itachi interrupted him.

"Sasuke, I don’t need your eyes!" Itachi said resolutely, assuming Sasuke intended to give him his own eyes.

"No!"

"I’m not giving you my eyes!"

"I’m going to transplant Shisui’s eyes into you!"

"And combine them with Hashirama’s cells."

"This will allow you to achieve the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan in one stroke!"

As Sasuke spoke, a faint smirk played on his lips, and his sharp gaze locked onto Itachi's eyes.

"I’m very eager to see what kind of power the fusion of Tsukuyomi and Kotoamatsukami will bring!"

*+300*

Sasuke’s words made the numbers in front of his eyes jump once more.

"Sasuke… you…"

Itachi’s eyes widened in shock. The idea of transplanting Shisui’s eyes had never crossed his mind—it seemed an incredibly difficult feat.

"Sasuke, Shisui and I are not blood relatives. A transplant may be nearly impossible to achieve," Itachi said in a low voice.

"You don’t need to worry about that!"

"Right now, we have a pair of Shisui’s intact eyes."

"We also have access to the Fifth Hokage’s authority, which allows us to utilize the Hashirama cells sealed away in Konoha."

"In addition, I’ve sealed a usable White Zetsu."

"Most importantly…"

"I have a scientist who can make all of this happen."

As Sasuke spoke, the sinister smile on his face deepened. He waved a finger in the air.

"Orochimaru!"

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 219: Let’s Make a Deal! *

+400

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes jumped once again.

“Orochimaru?”

A flash of deep shock crossed Itachi’s eyes, his expression filled with disbelief.

“So, Orochimaru was captured by you!”

When Itachi said this, a self-mocking smile appeared on his lips. He had never imagined that Orochimaru wouldn’t stand a chance against Sasuke.

In his mind...

When Orochimaru approached Sasuke,

Sasuke would follow Orochimaru, seeking the power he possessed to complete his ultimate transformation.

But...

Everything unfolded much faster than he had anticipated!

Sasuke’s growth in strength was truly terrifying!

It completely exceeded his expectations!

This outcome was something he had never envisioned!

“Orochimaru tried to confront me but ended up sealed inside my Totsuka Blade,” Sasuke said with a casual tone, his lips curling into a slight smile.

“Oh, right! I almost forgot to tell you!”

“My Susanoo also has a Totsuka Blade like yours, capable of sealing opponents within it!”

+500

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes began to jump again, increasing by increments of 100, and they moved at an astonishing speed.

“All right.”

“Let’s set aside the matter of Orochimaru for now.”

“Let’s talk about the second issue!”

As Sasuke spoke, he raised a second finger, shaking both fingers slightly in front of Itachi.

“Hmm.”

Instantly, Itachi’s expression turned serious.

By now, he had already accepted the fact that his younger brother was stronger than him.

“The second issue,” Sasuke’s calm voice echoed through the chamber.

“Itachi, I want you to become the Sixth Hokage of Konoha!”

“This isn’t a request for your opinion.”

“This is an official notification!”

Sasuke’s gaze was sharp and serious, his eyes carrying an intense gravity.

+1000

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes suddenly surged, reaching their maximum limit.

Clearly!

These words struck Itachi as both shocking and profoundly audacious.

Itachi stared at Sasuke with wide eyes, his blood-red Mangekyo Sharingan filled with astonishment.

Incredible.

Unbelievable.

Terrifying!

Absolutely terrifying!

Itachi thought he was already bold, but Sasuke was on an entirely different level.

The Sixth Hokage!

How could he even bring this up?

Itachi’s eyes locked onto Sasuke. His younger brother now seemed utterly consumed by madness.

The Fifth Hokage had only just taken office, and Sasuke was already thinking about the Sixth!

“Itachi,” Sasuke continued, “I know you have a lot of questions.”

“That’s normal.”

“Let me explain.”

Sasuke had clearly seen the confusion in Itachi’s eyes, and these were precisely the words he wanted to address.

“I want you to become the Sixth Hokage. This isn’t some long-term goal. Danzo won’t last much longer as the Fifth Hokage.”

“He’s old.”

“Who knows when his health might give out!”

“Do you understand?”

Sasuke’s gaze fixed on Itachi, and his casual yet cutting words sent a chill down Itachi’s spine.

The implication was clear.

Sasuke was planning to deal with Danzo!

+1000

The numbers before Sasuke’s eyes continued to rise sharply, pushing the “pretentious system” to its limits.

“Sasuke, calm down. Danzo is under the influence of Kotoamatsukami. That means he’s on our side. Having him serve as Hokage is a better fit for now,” Itachi said thoughtfully after considering the situation.

He believed that was the best approach.

Danzo was naturally suited to take the blame.

For matters that required someone to face public scrutiny,

Danzo was the most appropriate choice!

“I understand your point,” Sasuke replied.

“But…”

*"Konoha owes the Uchiha a Hokage."*

*"This position can only be filled by you, and it must be you!"*

Sasuke waved his hand, clearly indicating that he didn’t want to continue discussing the topic. It was apparent that he had already made the final decision.

+1000

The points in Sasuke’s view had now stabilized at this number.

*"And you...?"*

Itachi looked deeply at Sasuke. He had never expected this outcome when he initially came to Konoha to save his younger brother.

What a convoluted journey it had been.

From the ANBU, to being the man who annihilated his own clan.

Then to becoming a rogue ninja.

An Akatsuki spy.

And now, to potentially returning to become the Hokage?

What a fantastical turn of events in life!

Even Itachi himself hadn’t imagined things would develop to this extent. For a moment, he felt like he’d picked up the wrong script.

*"I can’t be tied down by the position of Hokage. This kind of thing should be left to an elder brother like you!"*

Sasuke chuckled and raised a third finger.

*"The third thing."*

*"I will reveal the truth about what happened to the Uchiha clan back then."*

*"Of course..."*

*"It will be slightly exaggerated."*

*"Just keep that in mind and don’t say anything unnecessary. Follow my lead on this."*

*"That’s it."*

*"These are my conditions!"*

Sasuke spoke with extreme seriousness. His tone was resolute, leaving no room for negotiation.

+1000

The number in Sasuke’s view jumped once again.

*"I understand,"* Itachi nodded.

In truth, he wasn’t entirely comfortable with the idea of exaggerating the facts, because an embellished truth is no longer the truth.

But...

The one saying this was his younger brother, after all.

For the sake of his brother...

Even if it wasn’t the truth, he could still treat it as the truth!

*"Now that you’ve made your decision, let’s deal with your physical condition first."*

As Sasuke spoke, his eyes transformed into the eternal Mangekyo Sharingan, their six-pointed star patterns gleaming brilliantly.

Buzz!  

A nearly tangible surge of chakra radiated from Sasuke’s body as he activated Susanoo.

The massive Susanoo nearly filled the entire chamber, exuding an ominous power.

The tengu-like mask materialized over Susanoo’s face, marking its transition to the third stage.

Raising an arm, it drew its sword.

The Ten Tails Sword on Sasuke’s Susanoo burst into a dazzling light, radiating sharp sword energy that instantly reversed the sealing process.

Whoosh!  

A figure suddenly appeared in the chamber.

It was none other than Orochimaru.

+1000

The points in Sasuke’s view continued to climb, maintaining their peak value.

*"This... You..."*

Orochimaru was momentarily dumbfounded as he arrived. His eyes immediately landed on Sasuke, who was wielding Susanoo.

+50

The number in Sasuke’s view ticked upward again, though this time the increase was smaller—clearly, the "audience" had shifted to Orochimaru.

The next moment, Orochimaru noticed another presence—Itachi Uchiha standing right in front of him.

*"..."*

Orochimaru fell silent, realizing he was caught in the middle of a reunion between the two Uchiha brothers.

What was this?

A three-way showdown?

Orochimaru found himself in a one-against-two situation, flanked by the two Uchiha brothers.

In front was Sasuke.

Behind was Itachi.

He was caught in an awkward and precarious position...

*"What do you want?"*

Orochimaru’s snake-like eyes narrowed sharply, a sense of unease rising within him.

*"We’re here to make a deal with you,"* Sasuke said calmly. As he spoke, he deactivated Susanoo, standing directly in front of Orochimaru.

(End of Chapter)  

Chapter 220: Orochimaru in a Dilemma!

*+60*

As soon as Sasuke spoke, the numbers before him began to flicker, and the points instantly increased.

"What... What kind of deal?!"

Orochimaru's entire body tensed, a chill running down his spine.

Right now, he wasn't so simple anymore.

He had mastered the Living Corpse Reincarnation technique!

And the current body he inhabited...

It was a young lady's!

Just as the rumors said, calling him "Aunt Orochi" seemed more fitting than "Uncle Orochi."

Orochimaru's eyes locked onto Sasuke. From Sasuke's words, he sensed a foreboding feeling that made him uneasy.

Terrifying!

He'd never realized the Uchiha brothers were such people!

Now he was caught in their web.

Orochimaru felt stuck between a rock and a hard place.

"Sasuke, I will provide you with Hashirama cells and a White Zetsu. In return, you will perform Itachi's Mangekyō Sharingan transplant surgery and treat his chronic illness. Can you do it?"

Sasuke's cold voice rang out. His face, devoid of emotion, radiated an aura of aloofness. Though he was only twelve or thirteen years old, his presence commanded respect and fear.

*+70*

Orochimaru's expression grew serious at Sasuke's words.

When it came to transplanting Sharingan...

No one needed to say it.

He had experience.

Danzo's arm was the result of Orochimaru's experiments.

And that was precisely why Sasuke had sought him out.

If Orochimaru hadn't had this expertise, Sasuke wouldn’t have handed over Itachi for experimentation so readily.

Orochimaru stared deeply at Sasuke, confirming that this young boy wasn’t joking. He took a deep breath.

"Transplanting Mangekyō Sharingan... That I can do. But I can't guarantee Itachi won't have a rejection reaction with the eyes."

"However..."

"With Hashirama cells, the chances of success improve significantly."

"As for treating his illness..."

"I'm not exactly a qualified medical ninja. I can do my best, but whether he recovers depends on Itachi's body's ability to adapt."

"If his body doesn’t adapt well..."

Orochimaru trailed off, unwilling to make any bold guarantees.

Lately, he had been sealed into a dream realm by the Totsuka Blade.

The experience was nothing short of harrowing.

Time and space lost all meaning, as if he'd been plunged into an endless cycle of reincarnation!

For someone like Orochimaru, who sought eternal life, it was unbearable.

"What happens if his body doesn’t adapt well?"

Sasuke's voice grew even colder. He didn’t want to hear such an uncertain answer.

*+80*

Sasuke's sudden icy demeanor was enough to make even Orochimaru feel overwhelmed.

"Ahem... Sasuke, if you can find a skilled medical ninja to assist me, I can guarantee a flawless procedure!"

Orochimaru dared not continue speaking. He feared saying too much would result in being sealed again.

"Alright."

Sasuke nodded without hesitation. This was perfect timing!

He had Tsunade on his side—

The top medical ninja in the ninja world!

It wasn’t that Sasuke had planned for this; it was simply a stroke of luck.

*+90*

The numbers before Sasuke jumped once again.

"Huh?!"

Orochimaru froze, staring blankly at Sasuke.

How did everything he mentioned just fall into place?!

Not only were Hashirama cells available—

There was also a top-tier medical ninja!

However...

"Sasuke, I must give you a heads-up in advance. My best assistant, and the medical ninja who complemented my work the most, Kabuto Yakushi, is dead. Other medical ninjas might not be able to keep up with my pace."

Orochimaru’s voice turned serious.

This wasn’t him being difficult.

For a scientist of his caliber,

Ordinary medical ninjas truly couldn’t match his tempo.

"You don’t need to worry about that. The medical ninja I’ll provide you with is someone you’re already quite familiar with."

*+100*

As Sasuke finished speaking, the numbers before him surged once again.

---

"An old acquaintance?"

Orochimaru's smile turned playful. He had far too many old acquaintances, but those proficient in medical ninjutsu were few and far between.

"Tsunade," Sasuke said calmly, naming her with a deliberate tone. Orochimaru's pupils shrank sharply in response.

*+110*

The number in Sasuke's vision shifted again.

As expected!

It really is Tsunade!

Then there’s no problem at all!

Orochimaru had thought of Tsunade’s name in a flash earlier but wasn’t entirely sure if Sasuke could truly convince her to help.

Now that Sasuke had confirmed it—

Even so, Orochimaru no longer felt any concern in his heart.

"Sasuke," he said.

"If it’s really Tsunade, then there’s absolutely no issue with the eye transplant."

"Since you said it’s a deal," Orochimaru continued, his smile widening, "isn't it time we discussed what I’ll get out of this?"

As expected of one of the legendary Sannin, Orochimaru showed no sign of anxiety or hesitation. With his words, he had already positioned himself as a negotiator.

"Simple!"

Sasuke grinned, the corner of his mouth curling into a devilish smirk.

"I can give you freedom."

*+120*

The number in Sasuke’s vision continued to rise, maintaining a significant jump.

"Deal!" Orochimaru agreed immediately. That was precisely what he had been waiting for.

At this point, Orochimaru was nearly immortal—though only relatively so. His condition was contingent on not being crushed by overwhelming power or sealed away.

Sasuke’s Totsuka Blade was exactly the thing Orochimaru feared the most.

Of course, Orochimaru was unaware that another Totsuka Blade was also in the possession of Itachi, standing right behind him.

In Orochimaru's mind, this deal was valuable because it freed him from the threat of being caught between the Uchiha brothers.

"When do we begin?" Orochimaru asked without hesitation. He was eager to finish the procedure and leave this place as soon as possible.

"Right now," Sasuke replied, glancing at Itachi. "Orochimaru is in your hands; I’ll go make preparations."

"Don’t worry," Itachi said coolly. Handling Orochimaru was no challenge for him—it wasn’t difficult at all.

As long as Orochimaru remained here, he couldn’t escape Itachi’s sight.

At this point, anticipation began to stir in Itachi’s heart. He was looking forward to obtaining the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan—after all, it was the legendary dojutsu.

The very same that only Madara Uchiha was said to have mastered!

But wait...

A flicker of doubt crossed Itachi's eyes.

From the start until now, he had overlooked one critical detail:

How did Sasuke awaken his Mangekyō Sharingan?

This question lingered in Itachi's mind, refusing to fade.

His gaze focused on Sasuke’s eyes, but at this moment, Sasuke’s pupils had returned to their normal dark color.

This younger brother of his...

He’s got something special.

Since reuniting with Sasuke, Itachi couldn’t shake the sense that his brother was like an unreadable book, every page revealing a new surprise.

(End of Chapter)