THE PATH OF LIFE || U. SASUKE

CHAPTER 32

"Chase after Y/N, join with her, and stop her," Kakashi commanded as he summoned his ninja dog, Pakkun "After that, regroup and find Sasuke."

Sakura understood the importance of safeguarding her friends and resolved to carry out the mission with utmost dedication.

As Naruto emerged from the genjutsu-induced slumber, his concern for Y/N was palpable in his voice. "What happened to Y/N?"

"I will explain on the way," Shikamaru replied.

As Sakura prepared to set off on her mission, Naruto voiced his concern for Y/N, seeking answers from Shikamaru. Understanding the need for clarity, Shikamaru assured Naruto that he would explain the situation on their way, ensuring that everyone had a clearer understanding of the events surrounding Y/N's disappearance.

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"It's been a while, Hiruzen-sensei."

The Hokage regarded Yatsuragi with a mixture of surprise and disappointment. The reunion with his former student was bittersweet, as he struggled to reconcile the person standing before him with the one he had once mentored.

"Yatsuragi," Hiruzen replied, his voice carrying a hint of sadness. The passage of time had transformed Yatsuragi into someone unrecognizable, driven down a path that now aligned with Orochimaru, a notorious rogue shinobi.

Hiruzen's gaze hardened as he expressed his disbelief. "I can't believe you joined hands with Orochimaru," he stated, the disappointment evident in his tone. 

He had hoped for a different outcome for his former student, one that didn't involve betrayal and collaboration with dark forces.

Yatsuragi's response, however, caught Hiruzen off guard. A smile played upon Yatsuragi's lips as he justified his actions. 

"I did it for the greater good," Yatsuragi asserted, his words carrying a hint of conviction.

Hiruzen's expression remained unchanged, his eyes piercing as he sought to understand the true intentions behind Yatsuragi's words. 

He had always believed in his student's potential for greatness, but this alliance with Orochimaru challenged his faith in Yatsuragi's moral compass.

The weight of their shared history, the memories of their time together, added an extra layer of complexity to the conversation. 

Hiruzen contemplated how their paths had diverged, leading Yatsuragi down a dangerous and treacherous road.

In the face of Yatsuragi's justifications, Hiruzen knew that he had a duty to protect the village and its inhabitants. 

He would not compromise the safety and well-being of Konoha for any perceived greater good. Determination settled within him as he prepared to confront Yatsuragi and thwart the plans that threatened their home.

Orochimaru's laughter echoed through the air, his amusement at the unfolding situation apparent. His sadistic pleasure in the chaos and turmoil was unmistakable, sending a chill down the spines of those present. "I am having fun it seems"

Yatsuragi maintained a calm demeanor, his smile unwavering as he addressed Hiruzen. His words held a cryptic quality, indicating that he had no intention of engaging in a direct confrontation with his former sensei.

Instead, his focus lay elsewhere, leaving Hiruzen to ponder the true nature of his goals.

"I have no intention of fighting you, sensei. As my goal lies with something else"