Naruto: The Tale of an Otsutsuki

The morning after Sasuke's departure, Tsunade, still groggy from reviewing files late into the night, was jolted awake by urgent reports from her subordinates.

Izumo and Kotetsu, on their routine patrols, had found Sakura unconscious near the village's outskirts. After rousing her, they learned that Sasuke had left the village alone. Sakura, shaken but resolute, reported her encounter to them.

Tsunade immediately suspected Orochimaru's involvement. The stakes were high, and with Konoha still recovering from the "Konoha Crush" attack, resources were stretched thin. Most of the village's experienced shinobi were already deployed on missions.

Tsunade made a swift decision. She summoned Kirito and Shikamaru to her office.

In the Hokage's Office

Tsunade explained the situation concisely.

"Sasuke has defected, and we suspect Orochimaru's hand in this. Shikamaru, as a newly promoted Chunin, I want you to lead a retrieval team. Kirito, I was planning to send you as well, but your presence is critical for Lee's surgery today. Your medical skills cannot be replaced."

Kirito nodded in understanding.

"To ensure success," Tsunade continued, "Shikamaru will lead the initial team. Once Lee's operation is complete, Kirito will form a backup squad to provide support."

After their briefing, Shikamaru pulled Kirito aside. "Any advice on forming a team?"

Kirito thought for a moment. "Get Kiba for tracking, Choji for brute strength, and Naruto—he won't let this go, so it's better to bring him along."

Shikamaru nodded. "What about you?"

"I'll provide you with something better than advice."

With a soft crack, Kirito formed a seal. Beside him, an ice shadow clone crystalized into form.

"This is my Ice Clone," Kirito said, patting the clone's shoulder. "It's more durable and reliable than a Shadow Clone. It can protect you, provide Byakugan-enhanced reconnaissance, and serve as my backup coordinates if you need me later."

Shikamaru hesitated. "Are you sure? What if—"

The Ice Clone interrupted with a smirk, "Relax. I'm not here to mess things up. Think of me as a lifeline."

At the Village Gates

After assembling the team, Shikamaru explained the mission to Naruto, Kiba, and Choji.

"Sasuke has left the village," Shikamaru began. "Our job is to bring him back. But don't underestimate the risks. Orochimaru values Sasuke, so it's likely we'll face strong resistance."

Naruto clenched his fists. "I don't care how strong they are—I'm bringing Sasuke back!"

Shikamaru ignored Naruto's outburst and laid out their formation.

"Kiba, you'll lead as the scout. Your sense of smell is critical for tracking Sasuke and identifying potential traps. I'll follow as second. I'll provide tactical coordination and communicate changes quickly.

"Kirito's Ice Clone will be third. With Byakugan, he can monitor our surroundings and warn us of ambushes. Choji, you'll be fourth. Your strength is our best defense if we're attacked from behind. Naruto, you'll guard the rear and support the team where needed."

Naruto grumbled but agreed.

As the team prepared to leave, Sakura arrived. Her face was pale, and her voice trembled.

"Shikamaru," she began, "please let me join you. I can help—"

Shikamaru cut her off gently but firmly. "Sakura, your role is over. You had your chance to convince Sasuke to stay. Now, it's up to us to bring him back by force."

Naruto turned to Sakura, confused. "You saw Sasuke?"

Sakura nodded, tears welling in her eyes. She approached Naruto and clasped his hands. "Naruto… this is my lifelong request. Please bring Sasuke back. I couldn't do it, but I believe in you. You're the only one who can save him."

Naruto gave her a determined smile. "Don't worry, Sakura. I'll bring Sasuke back. I promise you that—this is my lifetime promise!"

Sakura broke into tears, guilt and gratitude washing over her. "Thank you, Naruto… Thank you."

Shikamaru's Team Departs

As the retrieval team left the village, Shikamaru turned to his squad.

"Remember," he said, "this is not a normal mission. Sasuke is one of us, but if Orochimaru's forces intervene, we must prioritize our safety while completing the mission. Stick to the plan, follow my orders, and we'll all make it back."

With Kirito's Ice Clone keeping watch and Kiba tracking Sasuke's trail, the team sprinted into the forest, ready to face whatever dangers lay ahead.

Meanwhile, in Konoha Hospital

Kirito focused on preparing for Lee's surgery. Tsunade's arrival brought a sense of calm authority to the room.

"Are you ready?" Tsunade asked.

Kirito nodded. "Let's save him."

As the scalpel glinted under the sterile light, Kirito pushed thoughts of Sasuke aside. His duty now was clear: ensure that Lee's surgery was a success.

On the Road

Sasuke sprinted through the forest, the image of his brother Itachi burned into his mind. Power, revenge, purpose.

He clutched the Heaven Seal on his neck, feeling its dark energy pulse through his veins. Behind him, Orochimaru's words echoed:

"To gain power, you must abandon everything."

Ahead lay the promise of strength. Behind him, bonds and memories tugged at his heart. But Sasuke had made his choice.

The darkness welcomed him.

(End of Chapter)

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A/N: Hey Guys,

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