Adopted by Tsunade [7-12] (Patreon)

Chapter 7: This High-Level Match

"Natsume, get up and take your medicine."

Tsunade opened the door. Through the crack, she saw Natsume sleeping peacefully.

This kid is just too good-looking.

"Sis, can you please step out for a moment?"

Natsume said, a little shy.

He wasn't used to having someone watch him change.

"Oh."

Tsunade snapped out of it, noticed his expression, and smiled, "What's there to be shy about?"

Natsume stared at her, clearly saying, "If you don't leave, I'm not getting up."

With that innocent face, it was just... overwhelmingly cute.

Tsunade subconsciously swallowed, closed the door, and said, "Come out when you're done changing."

She turned, put on an apron, and headed into the kitchen to cook.

Shizune was there too, but she was brewing medicine.

Even though chakra is powerful, medicine is still widely used.

As a medical ninja, brewing medicine is a must.

This medicine was specially prepared for Natsume to strengthen his body.

He'd grown up in an orphanage, with meager meals and barely any nutrition.

"Natsume."

Shizune knocked on the bathroom door, holding the medicine.

"Okay."

Natsume put down his toothbrush, opened the door, picked up the medicine, and drank it in one go.

Warm. Thoughtful.

Yeah, right.

His little face instantly twisted into a bitter grimace.

"Here, have a lollipop."

Tsunade unwrapped one and popped it into his mouth.

Despite her gambling, drinking, and fiery temper, she was still a good foster mother.

It had only been three days, and Tsunade's true colors were already showing.

Went out to buy medicine? Had to gamble.

Dinner? Had to drink.

Gambler plus alcoholic.

Natsume was glad Tsunade was strong enough.

Otherwise, he would've been sold off long ago.

Soon, rice balls were served.

Natsume mentally prepped himself, picked up a rice ball, took a few bites, and swallowed.

Shizune, across from him, did almost the same.

Only Tsunade watched Natsume eat, her beautiful face smiling even more.

Everyone loves a good-looking face.

Tsunade was no exception.

She thought Natsume fit her aesthetic perfectly, and just looking at him put her in a good mood.

After breakfast, Tsunade took out two sets of black funeral clothes. "Natsume, Shizune, put these on. We're attending a funeral today."

Natsume nodded and put his on.

…

Konoha Memorial Stone

By the time they arrived, the place was packed.

Everyone was in black, the atmosphere solemn.

It was the first time Natsume had seen so many story characters in one place.

Every ninja who wasn't on a mission was there.

He glanced around.

He only recognized a few with distinct features.

For example, Kakashi Hatake.

That white hair and the ever-present mask made him stand out.

But he looked utterly dejected—like a ghost had drained his life away.

Natsume understood why.

After losing teammates Obito Uchiha and Rin Nohara in succession, Kakashi also lost his teacher, Minato Namikaze.

And he'd lost his father as a child. Calling him cursed wouldn't be an exaggeration.

It wasn't until he met Naruto Uzumaki that Kakashi found purpose again.

Since it was a funeral, nobody felt like talking.

Natsume just stood by Tsunade, occasionally glancing around.

Soon, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, appeared.

He began his speech in a heavy tone.

"The Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, and the fallen ninjas and villagers gave their lives for Konoha's peace, upholding the Will of Fire, perishing with the invaders."

"Among them were elders in their fifties and sixties, as well as children only seven or eight. Their deaths are Konoha's loss. Those of us who survived will always remember them, and carry on their spirit and the Will of Fire."

"I promise, all the deceased will receive compensation, and their families will be properly cared for."

Although it was inappropriate, Natsume almost laughed.

During the Nine-Tails' attack, Minato and Kushina were the greatest heroes.

And their son, Naruto Uzumaki, should've been treated as a hero, but ended up subjected to extreme ostracism as a jinchūriki.

That's just… ironic.

Everyone at the funeral had been protected by Minato and Kushina.

But who'd have thought, in a few years, they'd call their savior's son a demon fox and treat him with cold cruelty.

Fourth Hokage, is this what you protected?

"Natsume."

Tsunade handed him a white flower. "Come with me to offer flowers later."

"Okay."

Natsume nodded.

Honestly, he didn't feel much.

After all, the dead were strangers to him.

After offering flowers, he followed Tsunade home.

In the days that followed, he needed to quickly master the Wood Style: Body Clone Technique, then make contact with Orochimaru.

Because Natsume didn't know when exactly Orochimaru would defect.

If he missed the chance, it'd be troublesome.

Orochimaru was a crucial part of his plan.

…

…

Half a month passed.

Natsume and Tsunade grew closer.

Their relationship was like mother and son, and siblings at the same time.

Under Tsunade's careful guidance, Natsume finally learned the Wood Style: Body Clone Technique.

Although his chakra could only manage one full use before exhaustion, it was still an achievement.

At his age, he was already a prodigy.

Meanwhile, Hiruzen Sarutobi sent the ninja academy enrollment notice.

Tsunade agreed, but not completely.

She thought six years of academy was too long; two or three years would be enough before graduating early.

That Night

"This jutsu is too much for you right now."

Tsunade wiped sweat from Natsume's forehead with a tissue.

The Wood Clone Technique was an E-rank jutsu.

Once he mastered it, he tried to learn a D-rank Wood Style jutsu.

But it was too hard.

Natsume looked up, just in time to see Tsunade's face close to his.

At such close distance, he could feel her fragrant breath on his cheek.

He instinctively turned away—only to catch a glimpse of a snowy abyss.

Instantly, things got a lot more exciting.

"Alright, that's enough for tonight. Go take a bath, then sleep."

Tsunade ruffled his hair. "You're only seven. Don't push yourself too hard—rushing will only harm your body."

Natsume nodded.

At this age, it was indeed taxing.

So, Sis, could you ease up a little?

So many benefits, I can only sigh in frustration.

After his bath, Natsume lay in bed for half an hour, then got up.

Wood Style: Wood Clone!

Vines sprouted from his head and shoulders, quickly forming two clones in front of him.

Wood Style: Transformation!

The two clones were wrapped in branches, then morphed into two young men in their twenties.

"Persuade Orochimaru as best you can," Natsume instructed.

He'd never go himself. That'd be suicide.

Thankfully, with Wood Style, his clones could do what regular clone and transformation jutsu couldn't.

Of course, it wasn't realistic for the wood clones to walk there.

Natsume spent two fate points to send them straight to Orochimaru's residence.

"I'll go first," said the clone on the left. "With Orochimaru's personality, I'll probably die."

"No worries, I'll back you up," said the right clone, giving a thumbs-up. "Let's see how I do in this high-level match."

"Good luck, other me."

The left clone resolutely entered the house.

Chapter 8: I Am the One Who Hunts Destiny

Although wood clones are clone jutsu, they're more like Shadow Clones, with independent thought.

The principle is simple.

In the original story, Yamato once absorbed a wood clone back into a seed.

In other words, the seed could resonate with the original's chakra, achieving a Shadow Clone-like effect.

Orochimaru's courtyard was dark at night.

Natsume, wary, looked around—but saw no one.

He opened the main hall, puzzled.

…

Meanwhile, in the underground lab.

Orochimaru held a scalpel, dissecting a corpse.

A moment later, a white snake slithered up and hissed, tongue flicking.

"An uninvited stranger. Their chakra is odd," it said.

Orochimaru understood snake speech, interest piqued.

He glanced at the corpse and tossed the scalpel aside.

This was a corpse of a ninja with a kekkei genkai.

Since his disciple Nawaki died, Orochimaru realized his limits.

He developed the Living Corpse Reincarnation and studied bloodline limits, seeking immortality and power.

But both were extremely difficult.

So far, he'd had little success.

No rush, though—he'd deal with the unexpected guest first.

Orochimaru left the lab and entered the hall.

Upon seeing Natsume, his slit pupils narrowed.

Something felt off, though he couldn't say what.

Orochimaru licked his lips, raised his hand, and several snakes shot from his sleeve, binding Natsume.

If something interested him, he'd capture it—no way he'd let it escape.

Pleasantries weren't his style.

He preferred catching prey, then slowly peeling away their secrets.

But just then, something unexpected happened.

Natsume, bound by snakes, suddenly turned into wooden branches that wound around the snakes instead.

Orochimaru was stunned.

Wanting to learn all ninjutsu, he immediately recognized the jutsu.

Wood Clone Jutsu.

He'd once worked with Danzo on Wood Style/Hashirama cell experiments.

Basically, transplanting Hashirama's cells into ninjas or infants to grant Wood Style.

But due to severe rejection, all test subjects died.

Orochimaru and Danzo had to give up, for now.

Now, out of nowhere, someone could use Wood Style.

No wonder Orochimaru was so surprised.

"So this is how the legendary Sannin Orochimaru treats his guests?"

Another Natsume walked in. "If so, I'm quite disappointed."

Orochimaru's expression darkened, but he didn't attack again.

He sensed this Natsume was another wood clone.

"Let me guess what you're thinking,"

Natsume said casually, pulling up a chair as if at home.

Orochimaru noticed Natsume's calm gaze—no fear or respect like other ninjas.

Clearly, he was confident.

"You're wondering: if all Wood Style experiments failed, how can someone use Wood Style?"

Natsume asked slowly, "Am I right?"

Orochimaru was shocked.

Spot on.

But only a handful knew about the experiments.

He couldn't have leaked it—was it Danzo?

"Who are you?"

Orochimaru's eyes flashed dangerously; losing control made him murderous.

"Who I am doesn't matter. What matters is, I can offer you benefits."

Natsume picked up a teacup. "For example, realizing your wish."

"My wish?"

Orochimaru scoffed. "You think you know my wish?"

"Immortality and omniscience."

Natsume smiled. "I know many secrets."

Orochimaru couldn't keep it together.

Impossible! Absolutely not!

How could someone know his innermost wish?

He hadn't told anyone.

Did I leak it myself?

Nonsense.

"Who are you, really?"

Same question, different mood.

Orochimaru was wary now.

A stranger knowing all his secrets—how terrifying was that?

Natsume chuckled.

That's the power of information.

He said mysteriously, "I am destiny, lurking within destiny, the one who hunts destiny. Get it?"

Actually, he copied this line from "The Eminence in Shadow."

Orochimaru tilted his head—what the hell is that?

But Natsume was telling the truth.

He had the Fate Ring and planned to hunt so-called destiny.

"Guess you don't get it."

Natsume sounded disappointed.

"..."

Orochimaru was rarely this annoyed.

Can you speak normally?

"Doesn't matter if you don't get it. Let's get down to business."

Natsume held up two fingers. "I want Hashirama cells. In return, I'll give you two secrets."

Orochimaru's eyes narrowed.

Natsume was mysterious, but this showed he wasn't invincible.

Orochimaru licked his lips—his sign of excitement.

"You know the value of Hashirama cells. How do I know your secrets are worth it?"

"I'll give you a minor secret first. If the deal goes through, then I'll give you a big one."

Natsume was prepared. "You're a good trading partner. We could work together long-term. What do you think?"

Orochimaru frowned.

Truthfully, he didn't like working with someone who knew him, but whom he didn't understand at all.

But Natsume knew too much.

If Orochimaru wanted to investigate, cooperation was the way.

"That depends on your secret's value. If it's good, I'm in."

"You and Danzo's Wood Style experiment had a survivor who awakened Wood Style."

"What?!"

Orochimaru lost his composure.

Danzo, you lied to me?!

"That survivor is in Root, code name 'A'."

Natsume meant Yamato.

Yamato's fate was to leave Root and join the Anbu; even his name, 'Yamato,' was given by the Third Hokage.

Now, his fate was about to change.

Natsume was curious what would happen if Yamato followed Orochimaru.

Most transmigrators don't want to change the plot.

But his cheat meant the story was bound to change.

To grow stronger, Natsume didn't care about the plot.

If you're strong enough, the plot doesn't matter.

Orochimaru took a deep breath. "I'll check what you said. If it's true, our deal's on."

"Pleasure working with you."

Natsume smiled, stood up, and canceled the jutsu in front of Orochimaru.

No secret identities, no multiple aliases. He'd only occasionally act as the mysterious shadow.

Chapter 9: Orochimaru Steals Danzo's Man

"Why do I feel he's really weak?"

Orochimaru stared at where Natsume disappeared, puzzled.

Those two wood clones didn't feel threatening at all.

Like genin, at best.

But could a genin know so many secrets?

Impossible.

The only answer: he was pretending to be weak, so no one could gauge his true strength.

"A tricky guy."

Orochimaru was even more wary.

This person was very dangerous.

He couldn't let his guard down.

Next up was Danzo.

Orochimaru's eyes glinted with danger.

He and Danzo were partners.

They held each other's secrets.

If exposed, both would suffer.

So, they maintained a rare balance.

But now, Orochimaru was furious.

Because of Hashirama, Wood Style was the strongest bloodline limit—his top target, even ahead of the Sharingan.

Danzo's betrayal was something he couldn't tolerate.

But confronting him directly wouldn't work.

Unless he captured Danzo.

Orochimaru decided to sneak into Root himself.

With his skills, he wouldn't be caught.

Even in Root.

He could've sent someone else, but that might tip Danzo off.

Better to handle it personally.

Orochimaru wasted no time and went to Root.

At night, his stealth was flawless—no one noticed.

Root had many secret bases.

He was familiar with them due to his collaboration with Danzo.

And since Natsume said the survivor's codename was 'Tenzō,' that meant he was a Root member now.

That narrowed things down.

He just had to check the training bases.

Orochimaru sent out his snakes.

Soon, he had a target.

…

Northern Konoha.

Orochimaru entered a building.

This was one of Root's training bases.

As Konoha's most powerful institution, Root's training was brutal.

It turned members into emotionless tools.

The essence of a ninja, taken to the extreme.

Naruto is a hot-blooded series.

But aside from Naruto Uzumaki, ninjas are cold-blooded killers.

For missions or the village, they could kill anyone—women, children, anyone.

If ninjas were real, run as far as you can.

The building had many people.

Orochimaru quickly locked onto one member.

Ten-year-old Yamato.

He patiently watched until Yamato used Wood Style.

"It's true?"

Orochimaru was shocked.

The mysterious man hadn't lied.

And this was just a minor secret.

So what was the major one?

Could there be something more valuable than Wood Style?

Orochimaru grew intensely curious.

As for Yamato, he quietly abducted him.

…

The Next Morning

Natsume felt his Fate Ring pulse and woke up.

[Because of your actions, Yamato's fate has changed. You received 90 fate points.]

Ninety points meant Yamato's fate had veered wildly from the original story.

He'd likely never join the Anbu.

Natsume stroked his chin and thought of something.

Yamato later became Naruto's team leader.

Because Wood Style could suppress Nine-Tails.

"Can I use this chance to get close to Naruto Uzumaki?"

Natsume considered it—it was possible.

By then, Tsunade would be Hokage.

She knew about his Wood Style.

With fate points, Natsume most wanted to buy Sage Body.

Sage Body plus Wood Style—perfect combo.

But 90 points was far too little.

He'd bought Wood Style at a newcomer discount; its normal price was 900 fate points.

Direct purchase now would be 2,000 points, nearly double.

Sage Body was even more precious—3,900 points.

"Take it slow."

Natsume wasn't in a hurry. He was only seven—time was on his side.

For now, he'd just enjoy Tsunade's care.

"Natsume, morning!"

Tsunade was busy in the kitchen. Seeing Natsume, she stopped and flashed a dazzling smile.

Natsume's mood soared.

What a great start to the day!

Honestly, waking up to a beautiful woman's smile—how could anyone not be happy?

"Natsume, time for your medicine."

Shizune suddenly appeared.

Natsume's smile froze.

What a mean sister.

He gulped down the medicine, then ran to Tsunade, mouth open—obviously asking for candy.

"Natsume, get it yourself. I'm busy."

Tsunade was making rice balls, hands full.

Natsume blinked.

With his height, he was right at Tsunade's waist.

But there was no pocket.

Where was it?

He reached out and felt around her belt under the apron.

Sure enough, he found candy.

And also a warm sensation—the body heat coming through her clothes.

Tsunade glanced over but didn't mind.

She wasn't a typical shy girl, and Natsume wasn't an outsider.

After eating the candy, the bitterness was gone.

Natsume ran to the living room to wait for breakfast.

Shizune read quietly nearby.

That was her usual routine lately.

"Today I'll take you to school,"

After breakfast, Tsunade said, "Shizune, you stay and keep studying."

Since she'd agreed to let Natsume attend, she wouldn't back out.

And with him at school, she had more time to gamble.

She'd teach him again at night.

Natsume was actually looking forward to school.

He hoped to meet main story characters and earn more fate points.

But he'd entered at an awkward time.

Naruto Uzumaki and the Konoha 12 wouldn't attend for another six years.

Kakashi's generation had graduated four or five years ago.

Natsume was caught in the middle, so there'd be few story characters around.

…

Konoha Ninja Academy

The academy wasn't much affected by the Nine-Tails' attack. After half a month's repair, classes resumed.

Natsume joined as a transfer student in Class 1A.

"Tsunade-sama."

Class 1A's teacher, Naoto Yamanaka, greeted her warmly, "I've received the notice. Don't worry, I'll take good care of Natsume."

Tsunade nodded.

Natsume was officially her student.

No one dared bully him.

"Natsume, I'll pick you up after school."

Tsunade patted his head and left.

"Natsume, I'm Naoto Yamanaka. Just call me sensei," the teacher smiled. "Come, meet your classmates."

As a transfer, Natsume couldn't avoid the classic self-introduction.

"Hello, I'm Natsume. I don't have any particular hobbies, just want a peaceful life."

A simple sentence, but it got plenty of attention.

Because he was good-looking.

Lots of girls stared at him.

"Natsume, you'll sit in the last row by the window,"

Naoto Yamanaka patted his shoulder. "Your deskmate is Itachi Uchiha, our top student. You'll learn a lot from him."

That was clearly a special arrangement for Tsunade's student.

But Natsume froze.

He never expected his deskmate to be Itachi Uchiha.

Chapter 10: Danzo's Furious Incompetence

Root Office.

Even in his fifties, Shimura Danzo maintained an active, hands-on approach to everything.

"Ryoma."

While flipping through a scroll, Danzo asked, "Has the Uchiha clan's relocation been completed?"

The Nine-Tails Incident brought chaos, and when the beast's eyes showed the Mangekyo Sharingan, suspicion fell upon the Uchiha.

At the Konoha Reformation meeting, Danzo had proposed moving the Uchiha out of the village center to the southwest corner, with ANBU monitoring them around the clock.

This meant the Uchiha not only lost their place of power but also Konoha's trust.

While Danzo's prejudice was a factor, forcing the Uchiha to move was a decision by all village leaders—including Hiruzen Sarutobi. Danzo couldn't have managed it alone.

Aburame Ryoma, dressed in a black coat, flashed in and reported, "It's basically done."

"How did the Uchiha react?"

"They were furious; everyone was unwilling, and several conflicts broke out, but Clan Head Fugaku stopped them."

Danzo, usually stone-faced, revealed an ugly smile.

His plan had gone perfectly.

In fact, he should thank the mysterious man who controlled the Nine-Tails. Without that chaos, there was no way he could have pushed the Uchiha to the village's edge.

"The Uchiha are now a powder keg. I look forward to the day it explodes."

Danzo touched his right arm. He had already transplanted Hashirama's cells and gained Wood Release. Once he obtained the Sharingan, he'd be invincible—even Sarutobi would be no match.

At that point, the Hokage seat would be his for the taking.

Danzo's suppression of the Uchiha was partly to continue Tobirama's policies, but also because he coveted the Sharingan—this bloodline limit that he'd long desired.

Wood Release and Sharingan represented Hashirama and Madara—their power far above all other shinobi.

"But why?"

Danzo subconsciously gripped the scroll.

The Nine-Tails Incident had pushed the Uchiha away from the center. The young Fourth Hokage Minato Namikaze had died. Two great things at once. So why did things feel so off?

Danzo never imagined he'd live to see Hiruzen Sarutobi become Hokage a second time. Infuriating!

"Well, Sarutobi won't last long. As long as I get the Sharingan before the Fifth Hokage takes office, there's still time."

Danzo exhaled.

Sarutobi was basically a retiree called back to work, due to the village's crisis. Once things stabilized, a new Hokage would be chosen.

How long could Sarutobi last? Maybe not even a year. He was old; who knows when he'd die.

This thought improved Danzo's mood.

"Lord Danzo."

Another Root member flashed in and reported, "Tenzō is missing. We can't find him anywhere."

Danzo's smile froze, his face darkening.

Tenzō—Yamato—the sole survivor of the Wood Release experiments, was extremely valuable. Not only would he be a loyal Wood Release subordinate, but he'd also be a shocking trump card against Sarutobi.

The thought excited Danzo, but now all that was gone.

Yamato's disappearance was a serious risk. If he fell into Sarutobi's hands, Danzo's and Orochimaru's secret Wood Release experiments would be exposed—handing Sarutobi a weapon against him.

"Say that again!" Danzo barked.

"Tenzō vanished last night. All Root members searched all night and found nothing. It's very likely he's left Konoha," the Root ninja elaborated.

"A grown man disappeared right under your noses?!" Danzo finally lost it, furiously shouting, "Useless! All of you are useless!"

He'd kept Yamato at the training base, both for his Wood Release training and because other Root members could constantly watch him. Danzo thought it was safe—but now there was a problem.

Danzo was left raging in his powerlessness.

Root members, trained into emotionless shadows, felt nothing. His anger was meaningless.

"And Orochimaru?"

Danzo calmed himself, gripping his cane. Currently, Orochimaru was nominally part of Root, serving as a personal guard alongside Ryoma. But today, he wasn't here.

"Orochimaru is at home, conducting experiments," Ryoma replied.

"Go check his place. See if there's any trace of Tenzō."

Danzo wasn't accusing Orochimaru without reason. In Konoha, there were only a few who could hide someone from Root, and Orochimaru was one.

Ryoma, of the Aburame clan, was a top tracker—if anyone could investigate Orochimaru without being noticed, it was him.

…

Ninja Academy.

Natsume yawned.

He didn't mind the practical ninja classes, but theory was boring—mostly about past Hokage and the Will of Fire, with Hiruzen Sarutobi as the central figure. Natsume suspected Sarutobi had written the textbook himself, painting himself as the greatest Hokage.

As Sarutobi had been Tobirama's student, why would he accept the title of "strongest Hokage"? Only to solidify his own power, Natsume reasoned.

He glanced at Uchiha Itachi, who listened intently. Maybe this was the beginning of Itachi's devotion to the Will of Fire.

According to canon, Itachi's life was legendary: on the battlefield at four, graduated at seven, awakened his Sharingan at eight, joined ANBU and awakened Mangekyo at eleven, massacred his clan at thirteen.

Natsume wasn't interested in recruiting Itachi—he was too dangerous, having even killed his own parents. But Itachi was valuable for Fate Points.

Still, while Natsume wouldn't keep him close, someone else would—like Orochimaru, who loved orphaned geniuses.

Not out of kindness, of course. After awakening the Mangekyo, Itachi would be Orochimaru's nemesis. Their clash was bound to be interesting.

"What's wrong?" Itachi suddenly shivered and looked at Natsume.

"Nothing," Natsume smiled. "Want to grab dinner after school?"

"No thanks."

Itachi remained distant and aloof—mature for his age, withdrawn, and not much for chatting. He'd rather talk to Shisui about adult topics—like the Will of Fire.

Chapter 11: Drunk Tsunade

After school, many parents arrived to pick up their children.

Natsume saw Itachi leave with a teen—probably Shisui, already famous as "Shisui of the Body Flicker," the Uchiha clan's brightest star.

Natsume had spent the day learning his classmates' names. Aside from Itachi, there was Inuzuka Hana—Kiba's older sister and a veterinarian. She had little presence in the original plot, so Natsume wasn't sure how to change her fate.

"Stop! Pay up!"

Suddenly, there was a commotion. Natsume looked up, stunned, to see an elderly lady running swiftly, outpacing six burly men chasing her. She winked playfully at Natsume as she passed. Despite her age and looks, there was something charmingly youthful about her.

Natsume quickly realized this was Tsunade, being chased over her debts. As her adopted son and student, he could already see his future: constantly running from debt collectors with Tsunade and Shizune.

"I, Natsume, vow never to touch gambling or drugs!"

He would need to find a way to earn money soon.

After a while, the grandma returned and turned back into Tsunade in front of Natsume.

"How was your first day?"

"Pretty good," Natsume replied, taking her soft hand. "Who were those people chasing you?"

"Oh, just creditors. I only borrowed a little. I'll pay them back, but they insist on hounding me," Tsunade shrugged.

Natsume doubted it was a little. If he remembered right, her IOUs filled several boxes.

"Let's not talk about that," Tsunade smiled. "To celebrate your first day, let's buy some sake!"

"You just want to drink," Natsume protested. "Drinking isn't healthy."

"You underestimate me," Tsunade said, tapping her forehead. "This diamond mark is an advanced jutsu called Creation Rebirth. Know what it does?"

"No idea," Natsume lied, though he knew perfectly well. But he couldn't admit it.

"It keeps my body in peak condition. Alcohol or anything else can't harm me."

"Wow, you're amazing, sis!" Natsume played along.

Tsunade basked in his adoration, then ruffled his hair affectionately. "That's not my only secret—you'll discover more in time."

Natsume blushed from her scent, making Tsunade even more amused. She teased him, but let it go in public.

On the way home, they bought two bottles of sake and returned home, where Shizune was already cooking. As an orphan, Shizune's culinary skills were superb. If not for Tsunade wanting to bond with Natsume, she'd handle all meals.

Dinner was hearty: miso soup, tempura, mapo tofu, and salmon rice. Natsume ate with delight; Tsunade was happier still, being the only one allowed to drink. She'd forbidden sake for both Shizune and Natsume due to their age.

After dinner, Shizune took the dishes to the kitchen while Tsunade, clearly tipsy, lounged on the sofa, cheeks flushed like a ripe apple.

She suddenly looked at Natsume, who was studying ninjutsu nearby.

"Natsume~"

Her tone was more drawn-out and coy than usual.

She hugged his head, saying, "Sis likes you so much!"

Natsume couldn't focus on his book. Women really did interfere with his studies. Though it felt nice, it was also frustrating.

"You're drunk, sis. Go rest in your room."

He knew drunk people could be a pain—and he didn't want her to throw up on him.

"I'm not drunk!" Tsunade pinched his cheeks with delicate fingers, her breath heavy with the scent of sake. She swayed slightly, her ample chest bouncing with the motion.

"Only drunk people say they're not drunk," Natsume replied, eyeing his sister's flushed face and disheveled appearance. Her yukata had slipped dangerously low, threatening to reveal more than was proper.

"Are you disgusted with me? Fine, I'll go!" Tsunade pouted, her lower lip quivering adorably. She stumbled toward her room, her voluptuous body swaying dangerously with each step. But then she doubled back, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"...?"

Natsume tilted his head, confused by her sudden change of direction.

Next second, Tsunade picked him up easily "You're coming with me," she slurred, pressing her soft, warm body against his.

Not part of the deal!

Natsume's mind raced as he felt every curve of his sister's form through her thin yukata.

Natsume struggled, but Tsunade's drunken strength left him no chance. At her room, he finally escaped her grasp, only to witness a shocking sight as Tsunade began undressing herself with clumsy, intoxicated movements.

Tsunade stood before him, completely naked, her golden hair cascading over her shoulders and framing her ample breasts. Her skin glowed in the soft moonlight filtering through the window, highlighting every curve and valley of her voluptuous form.

"Na-tsu-me," she mumbled sleepily, her eyes already half-closed. "C'mere, you're so warm..."

Before Natsume could react, Tsunade stumbled forward and enveloped him in a tight embrace. Her bare skin pressed against him, soft and inviting, as she nuzzled her face into the crook of his neck. Within seconds, her breathing deepened and she began to snore lightly.

Natsume's heart raced as he desperately tried to think of a way out of this predicament without waking her.

After what felt like an eternity, he managed to slowly inch his way out of Tsunade's grasp. He gently lowered her onto her futon, careful not to disturb her slumber. As he tiptoed towards the door, he couldn't help but glance back at Tsunade's peaceful, sleeping face.

With a sigh of relief (and perhaps a tinge of regret), Natsume slipped out of the room, closing the door quietly behind him. He leaned against the wall, his heart still pounding.

Their relationship hadn't reached that point; he couldn't risk ruining things for a brief thrill.

"Guess I'll go see Orochimaru."

With Yamato's fate already changed, it meant Orochimaru had made a deal with him. Getting Hashirama's cells was still tricky—any mistake could expose him. But he needed them for the Wood Release bonus.

Natsume had the Wood Release talent, but lacked the massive chakra and Sage Body needed to use it fully. Until he had enough Fate Points, Hashirama's cells were necessary—for himself and his subordinates.

He could buy them with Fate Points, but that was costly, and he was currently short.

"Shizune, I'm going to bed. Check on Sister Tsunade later, okay?"

"Okay."

…

…

Orochimaru's House.

After spending a Fate Point, Natsume's Wood Clone arrived again.

Orochimaru was in the basement, training and experimenting on Yamato. As a charismatic villain, he was skilled at manipulating children. The only trouble was Yamato had been brainwashed by Danzo, so Orochimaru had to reprogram him while studying Wood Release.

Yamato's success gave Orochimaru new ideas: instead of snatching other people's bodies, he could just perfect his own—if he could perfectly transplant Hashirama's cells, unlike Danzo's patchwork approach.

Chapter 12: Orochimaru Gets a Taste of Defeat Early

"How do you like my gift?" Natsume asked, sipping tea calmly. He was only a Wood Clone, so he wasn't worried.

Orochimaru's eyes narrowed. He was sure no one had caught him stealing Yamato last night—at most, Danzo would notice the next day. Yet Natsume seemed certain he'd succeeded. Why?

Orochimaru concluded Natsume had a powerful intelligence network behind him.

"I'm very satisfied," Orochimaru replied coldly. "If not for you, I'd still be in the dark about Yamato."

Yamato was crucial—a breakthrough. With him, Orochimaru could continue his research. He'd been ready to abandon Wood Release, but now he wouldn't.

He was even considering pausing his research into body-hopping jutsu.

"No need to thank me," Natsume smiled. "Looks like our deal can proceed."

"How much Hashirama's cells do you want?" Orochimaru asked after a pause. "They're limited. If you want too much, it'll be hard."

Natsume raised an eyebrow. Don't think I don't know—you've even robbed the tombs of Hashirama and Tobirama.

"Nine transplant doses will do. And I want your experimental data," Natsume said.

Orochimaru nodded, unsurprised. Anyone wanting Hashirama's cells would surely want the data too. Right now, no one knew more about this than him.

"I want the data for perfect transplantation, not your current, flawed method," Natsume added.

Orochimaru's experiments had a sky-high mortality rate—only Yamato survived. Danzo's partial arm transplant was a different matter.

Orochimaru grew wary. This mysterious man knew too much about the Wood Release experiments.

"Fine," Orochimaru agreed. He could always tamper with the data. Unless Natsume found a top-notch medical ninja—like Tsunade—it'd be hard to check.

But that was impossible. There was only one Tsunade, and she'd never be involved with someone like him.

"So, will you tell me the other secret now?" Orochimaru licked his lips.

"Technically, I should wait until I get the cells. But I'm not afraid you'll go back on your word," Natsume replied calmly.

Orochimaru was surprised by his confidence, but it fit the mysterious persona.

"How strong do you think Hashirama was?" Natsume asked.

"Very strong," Orochimaru replied honestly. He'd read Konoha's records—Hashirama was clearly a tier above the Five Kage. He'd seen the Nine-Tails himself; without special power, it was nearly unbeatable.

"And Uchiha Madara?"

"Not far behind," Orochimaru said. The Valley of the End battle was legendary—Madara couldn't be much weaker than Hashirama.

"What made Madara so powerful?" Natsume asked.

"Sharingan," Orochimaru answered, puzzled by the line of questioning.

"What about Uchiha Fugaku?"

"He's decent. Three-tomoe Sharingan is impressive, but only a bit above a typical jonin."

"Isn't that odd?" Natsume pressed. "Same Sharingan, but Madara was much stronger."

Orochimaru froze. Good point. Madara could've crushed ten Fugakus. Why? Could three-tomoe really control the tailed beasts?

"Are you saying there's something above the three-tomoe Sharingan?"

"Exactly," Natsume nodded. "Above it is the Mangekyo Sharingan."

"Mangekyo Sharingan…" Orochimaru repeated the words, remembering that only after Shisui's death did the village elders realize its power—Danzo even stole Shisui's Mangekyo.

"How strong is it?" Orochimaru asked.

"Want to find out?" Natsume replied.

"Someone in the Uchiha clan has awakened it already?" Orochimaru's eyes lit up, already thinking of how to steal it.

Natsume smiled at Orochimaru's naivety. He clearly thought the Mangekyo was strong, but not unbeatable.

"Yes, Uchiha Shisui."

"Him?" Orochimaru was surprised. Shisui had made a name for himself in the Third Ninja War. He didn't expect Shisui to have the Mangekyo.

"Here's a warning: take precautions, or you might get wrecked," Natsume advised.

Orochimaru was annoyed. Since becoming one of the Sannin, few could even make him serious. Was Natsume saying he couldn't handle Shisui—and might even get into trouble?

He didn't believe it.

Natsume said nothing more. With Orochimaru's survival skills, he likely wouldn't die. And Shisui wouldn't kill him outright.

As for Natsume himself, he wasn't worried. Mangekyo was OP, and if Shisui used Kotoamatsukami, Orochimaru had no real defense.

"Well, until next time," Natsume said, dispelling the Wood Clone. "Hope you have the cells ready."

Orochimaru immediately sent people to track down Shisui.

The next day, he challenged Shisui—and a major battle ensued.

…

Meanwhile, in ninja school, Natsume received a notification from the Sacred Ring of Fate:

[Your actions have changed Orochimaru's fate. You gain 58 Fate Points.]

[Your actions have changed Shisui's fate. You gain 19 Fate Points.]