Naruto: The Tale of an Otsutsuki

"Hidden danger?" Naruto's expression turned serious, and the joy of hearing Isshiki had been eliminated quickly faded.

If Kirito considered something a challenge, it would undoubtedly be even more difficult for them to handle.

Shikamaru, always sharp, asked after a moment of thought, "Is it about the Kara Organization?"

For Konoha, the Kara Organization and its unknown activities posed one of the greatest fears. With Isshiki gone, their lingering presence loomed large as a significant threat.

"That's correct," Kirito nodded and retrieved a note from his pocket, placing it on Naruto's desk. "This contains the coordinates of their current base, along with the location where the Ten Tails is being imprisoned."

He added, "You should deal with them as soon as possible. Once they realize Isshiki is dead, they might attempt to relocate or hide their operations."

Naruto picked up the note, examining it before passing it to Sasuke, the only one capable of traveling through dimensions. "Leave this to us. Thank you for your help in the battle with Isshiki. Is there any reward you'd like?"

Before Kirito could decline, Shikamaru chimed in, "You've done more than enough for us. Thanks to your help, we defeated Isshiki at minimal cost. Don't hold back if there's something you want."

During Kirito and Isshiki's disappearance, Naruto and his team had replayed the events of the battle countless times. It was clear that without Kirito, defeating Isshiki would have been impossible. The power gap was simply insurmountable.

Though the battle had left a fifth of Konoha in ruins, there were no casualties. Both Isshiki and the potential threat of Kawaki had been neutralized. On the whole, Konoha had come out ahead. As for the rebuilding effort, that could be addressed with the daimyo's support.

Kirito paused in thought before replying, "There's nothing I need right now. I'll let you know if I think of something."

Naruto smiled. "Fair enough. Just say the word when you do. We owe you."

Shikamaru steered the conversation back. "Kirito, about the hidden dangers you mentioned earlier—besides the remnants of Kara, what else is there?"

Kirito's face darkened. "The second hidden danger is far more severe. Stronger members of the Otsutsuki clan will eventually arrive."

The room fell silent as the gravity of Kirito's words sank in.

"The Otsutsuki clan has had its eyes on this planet for a long time," Kirito continued. "The arrival of Isshiki and Kaguya was just the beginning. With Isshiki and Kaguya gone, and Momoshiki, Kinshiki, and Urashiki defeated, the clan will inevitably send others to investigate. Their ultimate goal is to ascend to 'godhood,' and this planet is a key to that process. They won't leave it alone."

Naruto and the others exchanged grim looks. The idea of more powerful Otsutsuki arriving was daunting. If Isshiki's strength was any indication, the ninja world was far from ready.

Kirito added, "Even if you prepare now, it's not enough. The Otsutsuki clan doesn't act hastily. They'll travel across space for decades to reach this world. But decades from now, will the younger generations be strong enough to protect this planet? That's the real challenge."

Shikamaru sighed, running a hand through his hair. "This is more than troublesome. Peace has made everyone complacent. If war breaks out, things will only worsen."

Naruto's face reflected his concern. "So, what do we do?"

Kirito answered, "Start preparing immediately. Strengthen the next generation. Peace has made the ninja world weak—too few ninjas, and their abilities are declining. That's dangerous when the invisible threat of the Otsutsuki hangs over you like a sword."

Naruto turned to Sasuke and Shikamaru. "What do you think?"

Both agreed with Kirito's suggestion. Sasuke added, "It's a necessary step. We can't afford to gamble with the future."

Naruto leaned back in his chair, clearly conflicted. Increasing military investment would mean reducing funds for the village's economic development. The peace Konoha had worked so hard to build might unravel as other villages grew suspicious.

"Alright," Naruto finally said. "I'll think about it."

With that, Kirito relaxed. "I've said my piece."

Naruto smiled and stood abruptly. "Enough serious talk. How about we grab some ramen at Ichiraku?"

Kirito hesitated before recalling Naruto's earlier promise to treat him to a meal. "Sure."

Ichiraku Ramen had evolved from its humble roadside stall into a spacious, modern establishment. Sitting at a sleek, polished counter, Kirito and Naruto each ordered a bowl of ramen.

As they waited for their food, Naruto suddenly said, "Thank you."

"For what?"

Naruto explained, "Not just for helping in the fight, but for coming back today to warn us. You could've ignored it, but you didn't. I can tell you see us as comrades."

He sighed. "I agree with your proposal, by the way. But if we suddenly increase our military strength, the other villages might feel threatened, and the peace we've achieved could crumble..."

Kirito feigned surprise. "Naruto... thinking things through?"

"Hey! I'm Hokage, you know," Naruto retorted, grabbing his water glass.

Kirito smirked. "By the way, in the past, what were you up to?"

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Kirito replied nonchalantly, "You were dating Hinata."

Naruto choked on his water. "Pfft—cough, cough!"

Although he was already married, hearing his past self's romantic exploits being brought up so casually felt like having an embarrassing secret exposed.

(End of Chapter)