What is this Dimensional Chat???

Chapter 72: Side Story: The Silent Redemption



Konohagakure

"Welcome to Konoha, both of you," Jiraiya greeted with his signature grin as he led the two group chat members into the village.

Esdeath and Robin stepped in, taking in the surroundings. The streets bustled with life, a mix of ninja training and everyday commerce blending seamlessly.

"This place... it's not what I imagined," Robin muttered, his voice tinged with surprise. "I expected something darker, more... militarized. Not this serene, almost idyllic Japanese town."

Esdeath smirked, her gaze lingering on a nearby training ground. "Back here again, huh? How's your student's progress, Jiraiya?"

The Toad Sage scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Naruto? He's in the process of completing the Rasengan. He's still got a long way to go before he reaches the level of the Naruto from our group chat."

Robin chuckled. "Well, he's still young. No need to rush greatness."

Esdeath's grin turned wicked. "Enough about the kid. Let's talk about our enemies, shall we? I'm itching for a fight."

Jiraiya's expression grew serious as he crossed his arms. "We're up against two rogue ninjas: Uchiha Itachi and Kisame Hoshigaki. Itachi's a former ninja from my village, and his Sharingan eyes are incredibly dangerous. Whatever you do, don't make direct eye contact with him. He can trap you in a powerful illusion before you even realize it."

"And Kisame?" Robin asked, leaning forward slightly.

"Kisame is from the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist," Jiraiya continued. "He's a monster in every sense of the word. His sword, Samehada,, can absorb chakra—energy. Be very careful when engaging him."

Esdeath's eyes gleamed with excitement. "A monster, you say? Perfect. I'll take him. The two of you can handle the other one."

Jiraiya sighed, knowing there was no use arguing with her once she'd made up her mind. "Fine. But don't underestimate him."

As they continued strategizing, Robin suddenly paused, his eyes narrowing. He felt a strange sensation, like a voice whispering directly into his mind.

"Boy," the voice sneered. "You think you're ready to wield me? Don't make me laugh. With your pathetic ideals, you'll never unlock my full potential."

Robin clenched his fists, his voice trembling with anger. "Shut up! I'm nothing like them. I'll never follow such path!"

The voice cackled mockingly. "A hero, are we? Heroes are nothing but deluded fools. Tell me, how many lives have been lost because of the villains you chose to spare? How many innocents suffered because of your so-called principles?"

"I said shut up!" Robin barked, his voice echoing in the quiet street.

Esdeath and Jiraiya exchanged glances but said nothing, sensing this was a battle Robin needed to face on his own.

"Focus, kid," Jiraiya finally said, his tone calm but firm. "We've got a mission. Don't let your inner demons cloud your judgment."

Robin took a deep breath, nodding slowly. "Right. Let's finish this."

The peace of the inn was shattered by the unmistakable sounds of battle erupting outside.

"They're already here! We must hurry!" Jiraiya shouted, bolting toward the inn where Naruto was staying.

Naruto stood frozen, unable to comprehend the scene before him. Two mysterious figures in black cloaks, adorned with red clouds, faced his best friend. Sasuke's entire body radiated pure rage.

"I WILL KILL YOU!!!" Sasuke screamed, his Sharingan blazing blazing with fury.

The young Uchiha lunged forward, his Chidori crackling with deadly intent. Yet, the man he aimed for—a cold, calculating figure with dark eyes—caught the attack effortlessly, as if it were child's play.

Naruto's jaw dropped. "No way... Sasuke's Chidori didn't even faze him?"

The man twisted Sasuke's wrist cruelly, and a sickening crack filled the air as Sasuke howled in pain. "You're just a nuisance," the man said flatly, tossing Sasuke like a ragdoll into the wall.

"Sasuke!" Naruto shouted, his anger flaring as he reached for the Kyuubi's power. But before he could unleash it, the shark-like man beside the first figure swung his massive sword, Samehada, toward him.

The strange weapon pulsed as it drained Naruto's chakra, leaving him weakened and gasping for breath.

"My sword eats chakra," Kisame said with a toothy grin. "So why don't we trim this brat down a bit? How about I take one of his legs? That should keep him from running off."

Itachi gave a subtle nod, granting his partner permission.

Kisame raised his sword, ready to strike, but before the blade could descend, it met a powerful force that stopped it dead in its tracks.

"I'll be your opponent," a commanding voice declared.

Naruto looked up to see a strikingly beautiful woman in a military uniform standing protectively in front of him. Her piercing blue eyes locked onto Kisame.

"And who might you be?" Kisame asked, baring his teeth in excitement. "You're strong. I can feel it."

"My name is Esdeath," she said, her lips curling into a cold smile. "And you, Kisame Hoshigaki, are about to experience what it means to fight to the death."

Without waiting for a response, she delivered a devastating kick that sent Kisame flying out of the inn, crashing into the street outside.

Meanwhile, Itachi scanned his surroundings and realized he was surrounded. The walls seemed to writhe unnaturally, forming a fleshy barrier that trapped him inside.

"How unfortunate, Uchiha Itachi," Jiraiya said as he stepped into view. "We anticipated your plan to capture Naruto. I know about your past, Itachi. You still have a chance to redeem yourself if you surrender."

Itachi's calm expression wavered for a brief moment as his mind raced. "How does he know about my past? Only the elders should know that. Did the Sandaime reveal it to him?"

When he turned, he saw a teenager wielding a strange, glowing sword standing behind him. Robin's gaze was steady, his presence cutting off any chance of escape.

"Don't interfere with my revenge!" Sasuke screamed, staggering to his feet. Ignoring his injuries, he charged at Itachi once more.

Itachi sighed and sidestepped easily, driving his fist into Sasuke's stomach. "You're too weak, little brother," he whispered coldly. "You lack hatred."

Before Sasuke could respond, Itachi's Sharingan activated, activated, trapping him in the endless torment of Tsukuyomi. A single tear rolled down Sasuke's cheek as he collapsed, unconscious.

Itachi tossed Sasuke's limp body toward Jiraiya, his voice low and commanding. "Tell me how you know about my past."

Robin stepped forward, answering before Jiraiya could. "We have our ways. But we're not here to destroy you, Itachi. We know about the impossible choice you were forced to make. We're offering you a way out—a way to atone."

Itachi's eyes narrowed. "What do you know of my choice? My pain? No one could understand the burden I carry."

Robin's grip on his sword tightened. "You think you're the only one who's faced an impossible choice? You chose your village over your family. I can't imagine the weight of that decision. But walking this path alone, choosing death over redemption—that's not the answer."

Jiraiya nodded, stepping forward to support Robin's plea. "He's right. We can help you, Itachi. Your illness, your burdens—we have ways to ease them. But only if you're willing to listen."

Naruto, still recovering, looked between Jiraiya and Itachi, confused and angry. "What are you doing, Ero-Sennin?! He hurt Sasuke! He's the bad guy! We should be kicking his ass!"

Jiraiya sighed and knocked Naruto out with a swift chop to the neck. "Sorry about that," he said, bowing apologetically to Itachi.

Itachi looked between Jiraiya and Robin, his stoic façade showing faint cracks. For the first time in years, he hesitated. "Could redemption truly be an option for someone like me?"

___

Group Chat Conversation

Shin: "Look at you, dobe. All angry because someone hit your boyfriend 🤣."

God of Hope: "Shut up, asshole! Just heal him, and I'll grant your wish."

Shin: "Why are you so desperate to save this Itachi guy? Does he even deserve a second chance after what he did to his family?"

God of Hope: "Yes! He was just a kid forced into an impossible situation. He sacrificed everything for the greater good of our village. I won't let someone like him live out a tragic life without trying to help."

Shin: "Tch. You and your stupid ideology are beyond saving. Tell me, Naruto—what if it were your own children sacrificed for the so-called 'greater good'? Would you be fine with that?"

God of Hope: "And what would you do if that happened to you, Satria? Burn the whole country to ashes in revenge?"

Shin: "Damn right, I would. I'd let the entire nation crumble before I let anyone lay a hand on my family."

God of Hope: "That's madness! What about the innocent people living in that country?!"

Shin: "Why should I care about strangers more than my own family? You'd risk your loved ones for people who mean nothing to you? That's what's truly insane!"

God of Hope: "You're selfish and greedy! I'm done talking to you."

Shin: "Screw you, idiot!"

Kuroneko: "Stop it, both of you! This argument is going nowhere. You're just making everything worse."

Emilia: "She's right. Instead of fighting like this, you should both reflect on your choices. Find a solution that benefits everyone—your family and the people depending on you. As for Itachi-kun... I feel bad for him. He was so young when he had to shoulder such a heavy burden. Let the past be the past. Not everyone is as strong or resourceful as you, Satria-kun."

Cookies Maniac: "Big sister Emilia is right! Hate won't solve anything. We should give him a chance to redeem himself because he's not a bad person at heart."

Spider-Man: "He reminds me of someone I know... Someone who sacrifices one for the sake of many. I'd rather not comment on this, though."

King of Knights: "As a king, I admire what Itachi has done. His dedication to his village is remarkable, and I'd gladly have him in my army. His patriotism is inspiring."

Shin: "Great. You two sound perfect for each other."

Evil Spirit: "Self-sacrifice for strangers is a concept I've never understood."

Kuroneko: "Satria, what are you going to do? Will you help him? From what I see, Itachi acted for the sake of everyone around him. I hope you'll give him the chance to atone."

Shin: "Let me think about it."

[Shin has logged out]

God of Hope: "Thank you, Fran-chan, for helping convince him."

Kuroneko: "It's nothing, Naruto-san. Satria's a good guy deep down. He prioritizes his family above all else, but that doesn't mean he doesn't care about others. He just shows it differently."

God of Hope: "I know, but he's so extreme when it comes to protecting his family. It's infuriating sometimes."

Evil Spirit: "Fufu... That's what makes him special, don't you think?"

____

"My fate is sealed, Jiraiya," Itachi said, his voice heavy with regret. "I am one of those who do not deserve forgiveness or happiness. My sole purpose is to die by my brother's hand, activating his true power to protect Konoha."

Jiraiya's expression darkened, and he crossed his arms. "You really believe that, don't you? That your brother will protect the village after learning the truth?"

Itachi remained silent, his gaze fixed on the ground.

Jiraiya sighed and leaned closer. "Let me tell you something, Itachi. When Sasuke learns what you've done—and why—you think he'll protect Konoha out of gratitude? No. He'll be consumed by hatred. He'll seek retribution, not for you, but against this village. Your sacrifice will push him down a path of vengeance, not loyalty."

Itachi's calm demeanor wavered for a moment, but he steadied himself. "I've considered that possibility," he admitted. "I've already laid plans to ensure he remains loyal to Konoha. Even if it means… influencing him to think differently."

Robin, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. "So, your solution is to brainwash him?" His voice was sharp but not without empathy. "Do you really think that's any better than what those old men forced you to do to your family? What's the difference between you and them if you take away your brother's free will?"

Itachi's expression tightened, but he said nothing.

Robin took a step forward, his tone softening. "There's another way, Itachi. A way to break this cycle of hatred without manipulation or sacrifice. You can reconcile with Sasuke. Tell him the truth yourself. Show him the person you are—not the villain he's been led to believe."

Itachi looked at him, his dark eyes filled with doubt. "And how do you propose I do that? Words alone won't erase the scars of what I've done."

Robin nodded. "You're right. But reconciliation isn't about erasing scars; it's about healing them together. It won't be easy, but you don't have to face this alone. We'll help you."

Jiraiya folded his arms, his usual jovial demeanor replaced with seriousness. "He's right, Itachi. The path you're on now will only end in more pain for both you and Sasuke. If you're willing to try, we'll figure out a way forward."

Itachi hesitated, the weight of years of guilt and self-imposed exile pressing down on him. "What do you have in mind?"

Robin smiled faintly. "We'll take you to my friend's place. He has a way of finding solutions no one else can see. Let's talk this through and figure out how to fix this mess—together."

For the first time in years, Itachi allowed a glimmer of hope to seep into his thoughts. "Very well," he said softly. "I'll follow your lead. But know this—if this fails, I'll return to the path I've chosen. I can't risk the safety of the village."

"Deal," Robin said with confidence. "Let's give your story a better ending, Itachi."

The clash of steel echoed across the riverside, each strike reverberating like thunder.

"You're not bad!" Kisame exclaimed, his shark-like grin widening.

"I could say the same about you!" Esdeath replied, her voice tinged with excitement. "It's rare to meet a swordsman this strong. But tell me your name before I send you to the afterlife."

Kisame chuckled darkly, hoisting his massive sword, Samehada, over his shoulder. "The name's Kisame Hoshigaki. Remember it well... if you live long enough!"

Esdeath smirked. "Esdeath. And you'll remember my name as the one who freezes your soul in the afterlife."

Without warning, Kisame performed a series of hand seals. "Water Style: Water Prison Jutsu!"!"

A massive sphere of water encased Esdeath, trapping her inside. Kisame stepped back, confident in his technique. "Let's see you squirm your way out of this."

Inside the sphere, Esdeath's eyes glinted with amusement. "You think something like this can hold me?" Flames burst from her body, so intense they evaporated the water prison instantly.

"Vengeance Flame!" Esdeath summoned four blazing orbs of fire that orbited her like fiery sentinels.

Kisame's grin widened. "Impressive. But fire won't help you against me. Let me show you the power of the ocean!" He performed another set of hand seals. "Water Style: Five Hungry Sharks!"

From the river, five water sharks emerged, their translucent forms rippling with lethal intent as they surged toward Esdeath.

She chuckled, her confidence unshaken. "You'll soon realize how foolish you are to challenge me with water." She hurled her fireballs at the sharks, the elements colliding with explosive force. Steam filled the air, obscuring the battlefield momentarily as the two attacks canceled each other out.

"Your confidence is something to admire," Kisame said, his voice laced with amusement. "But I haven't even shown you my true power."

With a swift leap, he landed in the river and formed another series of hand seals. "Water Style: Exploding Water Shockwave!"

A massive torrent of water erupted from Kisame's mouth, flooding the area with a tidal wave of devastating force.

Esdeath's eyes gleamed with exhilaration. "Perfect." Instead of retreating, she stepped forward and touched the oncoming wave with her hand. Instantly, the water froze solid, transforming the rushing torrent into an icy sculpture.

"What?!" Kisame stared in disbelief. "You're... an ice-style user? That's impossible. I thought the Yuki Clan was wiped out years ago."

Esdeath grinned, her breath forming frost in the air. "Now you understand why I said your water techniques were useless against me. But you've shown me promise, Kisame Hoshigaki. Killing you would be such a waste."

Kisame's eyes narrowed. "A waste? What are you getting at?"

Esdeath stepped closer, her presence radiating an overwhelming, almost suffocating aura. "Let me make you an offer, Kisame. Pledge yourself to me. Follow me on the Path of Conquerors, and I'll show you a world beyond your wildest imagination."

Her icy-blue eyes glinted with a dangerous light, and the air around her grew colder, charged with power. The pressure she exuded was so intense that even Kisame, a man who had faced countless monstrosities, felt his instincts scream in warning.

Kisame chuckled darkly, his shark-like grin widening. "A new world, huh? Kukuku... very interesting. But it's not so simple, Esdeath." He hefted Samehada onto his shoulder and tilted his head thoughtfully. "My boss, you see, is revered as a god by his people. Double-crossing him isn't something I can take lightly. Unless…" His grin widened. "You show me you're someone who can defy even a god."

Esdeath's eyes sparkled with excitement, her bloodlust barely contained. "A god, you say? How fascinating. If this so-called god is what's holding you back, then I'll test my power against him. Tell him I'll be coming for him. Let's see if he's worthy of his title."

Kisame let out a low laugh. "You're a terrifying woman, Esdeath. But I like that." His sharp eyes darted toward the treeline as he sensed approaching chakra signatures. "Looks like Konoha's little ninjas are closing in. I suppose it's time for me to leave."

Esdeath nodded, her smirk unwavering. "Take your time to decide, Kisame. When you're ready to pledge yourself, speak with Jiraiya. He'll know how to find me."

Kisame chuckled, impressed by her audacity. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. I'll keep it in mind. Farewell... for now." With that, Kisame submerged into the river, his form vanishing beneath the surface like a shadow in the depths.

____

[Mission Complete]

A notification appeared, breaking the tension:

[Special Reward Gifted for Successfully Persuading Uchiha Itachi to Your Side]

[10,000© Will Be Shared Among the Participants]

[Robin: 4000© + 1 Surprise Box + 1 World Travel Ticket]

[Esdeath: 3000© + 1 Surprise Box]

[Pervert Sage: 3000© + 1 Surprise Box]

_____

Robin glanced at the notification, a small smile on his lips. "Well, looks like we pulled it off."

Jiraiya rubbed the back of his neck, a tired grin spreading across his face. "Not bad, not bad at all. But something tells me this isn't the end of it."

Esdeath, still gazing at the river, let out a soft chuckle. "Kisame may be strong, but this so-called god of his? That's where the real fun begins."

Robin raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "You really plan to take on a god?"

Esdeath turned to face him, her icy gaze brimming with confidence. "I don't just plan to. I will. And I'll show Kisame—and everyone else—that I'm the one they should follow."

Jiraiya sighed, shaking his head. "You're as dangerous as you are ambitious. Let's hope this doesn't come back to bite us later."

As the group regrouped, the distant sound of rushing water faded, leaving behind an uneasy calm. Though the mission was complete, the ripples of their actions would soon spread far beyond Konoha.

Side End.


Tip: You can use left, right, A and D keyboard keys to browse between chapters.