The Hyuga Shall Stand Above, In The Heavens!

"Hey, brother?" 

"Hmm? I'm not buying anything." 

"Get out of here! Do I look like I'm selling something? I'm asking if you've heard the news!" 

"Oh, you mean the Hyuga clan? Yeah, I heard. Bold move—they apparently killed the Daimyo of the Land of Fire, and the peace talks between the three countries have fallen apart." 

At the border of the Land of Fire. 

In a small town's tavern, a group of rogue ninjas was chatting loudly and freely. 

Under normal circumstances, they wouldn't dare to show up in the Land of Fire so openly. But after the war and the failed peace talks, Konohagakure's grip on the border had weakened to its breaking point. 

As a result, the tavern had become a target. The owner not only had to serve these rogues with the best food and drink but also couldn't ask for payment. Truly unfortunate. 

"Not just that!" 

One of the rogue ninjas shook his head, looking quite regretful.

"I happened to pass by that day and fortunately saw a lot of things."

At this point, a look of fear flashed across the rogue ninja's face.

"The head of the Hyuga clan, he can control the moon! And he can make the moon emit some kind of light beam that makes people ascend to the sky. It seems like he can even fly freely himself."

"We saw the moon get bigger that day, and it was the work of Hyuga Hitoshi, the head of the Hyuga clan! I heard that before he left, he summoned an immortal monster and also destroyed Konohagakure."

He saw all of this with his own eyes.

But that didn't stop others from thinking he was exaggerating.

Summoning the moon and an immortal monster?

Come on, the ninja world doesn't need such crazy rogue ninjas.

Everyone here was forced to leave their villages, so why act so pretentious?

"So, is that why you're not taking the bounty on Hyuga Hitoshi?" 

Another rogue ninja sneered.

"Now, everyone in the ninja world has heard about the Hyuga clan's defection. The Daimyos of the five great nations are all looking for him. He's like a hot commodity. But this guy is tough too. He even dare to kill a Daimyo. It's normal for you to be scared."

Scared? That's an understatement.

Sakazaki Ryo sighed slightly, "Meeting like this is fate. We're all rogue ninjas, and actually, I advise you all not to take that man's bounty. It's a task that can't be completed, and even trying is pointless. If you meet him, just run. Don't try to fight."

He was giving good advice.

But unfortunately, not many rogue ninjas are good people, and they didn't appreciate his warning. After Saka Ryo's advice was ignored, he didn't bother saying more. Anyway, he wouldn't be the one to suffer.

"Let's just chat about the ninja world. It's been a while since we've talked about the gossip from different villages, or how the Land of Fire is losing face, and whether the war will start again."

Until a sharp-eyed rogue ninja suddenly looked up at the man coming down from the stairs. He rubbed his eyes in disbelief, then hurriedly pulled out a bounty notice.

Bounty task.

Target: Hyuga Hitoshi (life or death not specified) 

Bounty: 60 million ryo. 

Target features: Long flowing hair, tall and well-built, usually wears a long robe, has white pupils that sometimes turn blue. Often accompanied by a humanoid summoning beast, the beast has two strange horns, white pupils, and long hair that can touch the ground. The summoning beast's abilities are unknown for now.

The portrait is as follows.

"Is the Hyuga Hitoshi you guys are talking about him?"

At that moment, all the rogue ninjas instantly turned around, their eyes filled with greed. Only Sakazaki Ryo's expression changed drastically. He turned and fled the tavern without looking back.

He couldn't win, he really couldn't win!

Only when you face that kind of power will you realize the rumors about the strongest shinobi being the Kage are false. Some people are Kage-level, but that's only because they have to be. Other people who are Kage-level only hold that title, but their actual strength has long surpassed it.

Without a doubt, Hyuga Hitoshi belongs to the latter group!

As expected.

His rogue ninja companions didn't last long.

When Sakazaki Ryo looked back, a chilling feeling rose in his heart.

He swore he would never forget that scene.

That man just looked sharply at the rogue ninjas. For some reason, their bodies suddenly froze, and then, without warning, they pulled out kunai and stabbed it into their own necks without hesitation.

Thud!

Thud!

The sound of the kunai piercing flesh made his scalp tingle, and the terror was so intense that he stumbled and fell.

Footsteps approached from behind.

Sakazaki Ryo desperately turned around, as if he had seen a terrible beast.

He was coming after them!

"Genjutsu makes killing so easy."

Sakazaki Ryo didn't know if the person was talking to him or his summoning beast, so he didn't dare to respond.

"I just heard those guys talking about a bounty on me? 60 million ryo?"

Hyuga Hitoshi never liked wasting words with nobodies, so he gave a straightforward explanation of why he spared the man's life: 

"Take me to the nearest underground bounty station." 

Just 60 million? Who are they looking down on? 

The clan leader, Hyuga Hitoshi, looked full of disdain. That's not even worth two adult Asuma. What's the deal? 

He planned to have a proper chat with the manager of the bounty station about this issue. While he was at it, he'd claim the bounty that was supposed to be offered when he showed up. Didn't the bounty poster say "dead or alive"? 

Claiming his own bounty wasn't unreasonable either. 

Fortunately, the rogue ninja named Sakazaki Ryo was sensible. Once he learned of Hyuga Hitoshi's intentions, he obediently led this terrifying figure along. The entire journey, he didn't even dare to eavesdrop on the conversations between the man and the puppet. 

It had been three days since the Hyuga clan established themselves high in the sky. 

After a clan meeting, the ascension ceremony for the clan members was now on the agenda. 

Considering that the clan would need time to wake, the visit to the ninja world wasn't under a strict schedule. According to the original plan, Hyuga Hitoshi wanted to take Pakura and the others on a proper tour of the ninja world. 

But plans often can't keep up with changes. Maybe because they had just been to the moon, the novelty hadn't worn off yet. After some discussion, they decided to stay on the moon for a while. Once Hyuga Hitoshi established the territory, they'd join him later. It was also a chance for them to give themselves a break. 

So, after spending a day on the moon with them, the clan leader Hyuga Hitoshi, for once, found himself alone—his only companion being the Goddess of Usagi. 

"Ahem. Speaking of which, I promised to take you on a tour of the ninja world before, but I've been too busy over the past year and couldn't fulfill that promise." 

While strolling through the woods, Hyuga Hitoshi casually placed his hands behind his head, enjoying the sunlight filtering through the leaves and the peaceful afternoon. From his current harmless appearance, it was hard to believe he was the same person who had just taken a life moments ago. 

"After all, you've been on the moon for a thousand years. You must've grown tired of the view by now. This time, you can enjoy the sights of your old garden." 

At least you're aware of that! 

For a mere blasphemer, you're not completely clueless. 

The Goddess of Rabbit stayed stubbornly silent, but for once, she let out a rare "hmph" in acknowledgment of Hyuga Hitoshi's words. Judging from the slight curve of her lips, her mood seemed pretty good too. 

With the Goddess of Rab beside him, the journey wasn't dull. 

Although she stubbornly remained silent, Kaguya's personality was just like that. Hyuga Hitoshi was long used to it. 

The man and the goddess followed Sakazaki Ryo slowly on their path. 

"Why is he here?" 

From behind a large tree on the side of the road, Kakuzu peeked out nervously, casting a glance at Hyuga Hitoshi. In that moment, all five of his hearts pounded anxiously. 

Even just a distant glance at Hyuga Hitoshi had him drenched in sweat. 

It really was Hyuga Hitoshi! 

Kakuzu was sure he wasn't mistaken. 

This was the man who had almost killed Sasori in an instant. Just withstanding the backlash from Sasori's attack had cost Kakuzu several hearts and nearly his life! 

News of the Hyuga clan's defection had spread across the entire ninja world, along with the destruction of Konohagakure. Some even claimed they had witnessed this man summon the moon itself! 

What a terrifyingly strong person. 

People like that should be avoided at all costs! 

Kakuzu had survived this long for good reason. 

He was even more cautious than Sakazaki Ryo, always choosing tasks well within his capabilities. 

In truth, Kakuzu's strength wasn't weak—he was capable of completing most bounty missions. But Hyuga Hitoshi was an exception. 

He planned to wait until they passed and then quietly slip away. 

However… 

He remembered what the leader had specifically said at yesterday's meeting: if anyone encountered Hyuga Hitoshi, they should report it immediately. 

Forget it. 

After all, he was a member of the Akatsuki. The organization's rapid growth was partly due to his hard work. He had witnessed the Akatsuki's rise firsthand, and there was a sense of belonging there. 

Glancing at the group walking away, Kakuzu touched the ring on his left middle finger, the one symbolizing the "North Star of the Akatsuki." Slowly and cautiously, he channeled chakra and closed his eyes. 

[Technique of the Illusionary Projection!]

This is one of the abilities of the Rinnegan. Pain can receive the thought waves emitted by members of the Akatsuki and use them to create illusions for efficient coordination.

Of course, if it were Hyuga Hitoshi, he'd probably prefer to call this technique and the rings "Akatsuki Link."

"Hyuga Hitoshi seems to be heading toward the underground exchange in the Land of Fire from what I can see."

Thinking of the rogue ninja Kakuzu, who had been seen at the exchange and was now guiding Hyuga Hitoshi, and considering their direction, their ultimate destination wasn't hard to guess.

"I see. Don't act rashly."

"How could I act rashly? I'm just informing the leader. I'm no match for him, and I'm not sure if he's noticed me yet, so I'm retreating for now."

After saying this all in one breath, Kakuzu cut off the transmission of thought waves and immediately turned to flee without the slightest hesitation, as if terrified of being targeted by Hyuga Hitoshi.

Meanwhile…

In the Land of Rain, at Amegakure.

After disconnecting from Kakuzu, Tendo Pain was silent for a moment. Tilting his head slightly as if offline, he seemed to be deep in thought.

You have to admit, Pain is becoming more human-like.

But.

"Go and check if Uchiha Madara is around."

Inside the cold and desolate tower, Pain suddenly spoke, addressing the Path of Human Realm, who was standing idly nearby.

It's difficult to discern Nagato's exact mental state or motivations in having Pain speak to another Pain, especially when observing through the lens of Madara's grand scheme.

"Forget it, I'll notify him myself."

After considering the speed of the Human Realm Path, Pain shook his head, dismissing the idea. The Human Realm Path nodded in agreement and replied, "Running isn't my strength."

However, Nagato, seemingly finished playing, didn't pay further attention to the Human Realm Path. Instead, he quickly contacted Obito via Akatsuki Link. Obito, still connected, reacted immediately upon hearing about Hyuga Hitoshi. He rushed to Black Zetsu's small hideout. Reeking of alcohol, the disheveled Black Zetsu reluctantly prepared to activate Kamui.

"What now?"

Clearly unwilling to work, Black Zetsu seemed to be in no shape for action after his mother's repeated scoldings from the last incident. Even after a year, he hadn't recovered, and the Infinite Tsukuyomi plan was entirely in Obito's hands now.

"Work! Hyuga Hitoshi has appeared! If possible, I want to personally bring him into the Akatsuki, making the entire Hyuga clan join us."

Obito's eyes were full of ambition.

Unlike the unmotivated Black Zetsu, Obito had grand ideals. He was determined to create a fabricated world where he and Rin could both find peace.

The true strength of Hyuga Hitoshi was a matter of debate, but one fact remained uncontested: he was undoubtedly a powerful figure! Even the Raikage and Tsuchikage admitted he was extremely dangerous and challenging to deal with. They advised their people to contact their villages' leaders immediately if he was spotted.

That said, both the Raikage and Tsuchikage had ulterior motives. This was why they only put a bounty on Hyuga Hitoshi and not on the ordinary members of the Hyuga clan. They didn't trust rogue ninjas or the often treacherous underground exchange. Information about the Hyuga clan was considered highly confidential within their villages. Now, each village had sent out its elite forces to locate Hyuga clan members on their own.

By exaggerating Hyuga Hitoshi's strength, they could reduce competition. That was likely the reasoning of the Kage, even if it seemed laughable.

After all, no one would willingly pass up the Byakugan's powerful Kekkei Genkai. Even with Hyuga Hitoshi's reputation blown out of proportion, there were still people willing to take on the bounty.

"Using the protection of the Land of Rain and the Akatsuki to win over the Hyuga clan is an irresistible temptation for them."

Obito didn't think much of the Byakugan. Even though it was praised highly outside, he firmly believed the Sharingan was the strongest. After all, he had already witnessed the power of the Rinnegan.

He also believed that extending an olive branch would not be refused. In this regard, he always had a strange confidence.

"Are you going to meet Hyuga Hitoshi?"

Suddenly, upon hearing this, Black Zetsu became alert.

His mother was right beside Hyuga Hitoshi! If they were going to meet him, there might be a chance to see her.

However...

"Is it still the usual approach this time? If he doesn't join, beat him up and force him to join?"

Black Zetsu suddenly thought of something and asked nervously.

"Of course. Being part of the Infinite Tsukuyomi plan is an honor for him."

Uchiha Obito replied calmly. 

"If he cooperates, I'll personally make sure his dream world aligns with his script. If he doesn't, I'll extract the Hyuga clan's hiding place and send him to the afterlife."

His tone was indifferent, full of disdain for Hyuga Hitoshi. The aura of not treating Hitoshi as a person was overwhelming. Whether or not his imitation of Uchiha Madara was spot on, Obito had mastered the imposing demeanor perfectly.

But Black Zetsu clearly disagreed.

"Obito, trust me. When you meet him, don't act arrogant. If you can discuss peacefully, then do so. And even if you can't, don't make an enemy of him. Seriously."

You could never guess the level someone capable of wielding Six Paths Chibaku Tensei had reached.

Black Zetsu absolutely did not believe Obito could harm that man with Kamui. 

Really, don't try it. 

Anyone acknowledged by his mother couldn't be simple. 

He, a loyal child gazing at the moon every day, had seen it getting larger and larger. If that thing really fell, it would be catastrophic.

Unfortunately...

Obito, who was clearly fired up, was beyond persuasion.

Moreover, Black Zetsu's form of address was incorrect! 

"Call me Uchiha Madara!" 

"..." 

Kamui activated. Having previously left coordinates outside the trading post, Obito brought Black Zetsu to the scene. From a distance, they could see the area.

But what surprised Obito and Black Zetsu was the sight of a giant fire dragon soaring into the sky above the trading post. Soon, it crashed into the clouds, evaporating the moisture. The once-white clouds turned pitch black, and the surroundings grew dark and oppressive.

"Aren't you going in?"

After witnessing Hyuga Hitoshi taint the clouds with one strike, Sakazaki Ryo glanced at the ominous, thunderous sky and asked nervously.

"It stinks." 

The sharp-eyed Clan Leader Hitoshi scanned the sky, waiting for the thunder to strike. 

Like Hidan, he couldn't understand why underground trading posts were always built near toilets. In any case, once he arrived, his interest waned. 

"Besides, I've already killed everyone here. All the money is mine now."

You don't need to talk about morality with an underground trading post. Especially when you're a rogue ninja, backstabbing is standard procedure. If they dared to accept a bounty on his head, why wouldn't he kill them? 

Yes. 

Even though Hyuga Hitoshi had declared the Hyuga clan independent from Konohagakure, not as defectors, he was still branded as a rogue ninja. 

The reasons were partly due to killing the Daimyo and destroying Konohagakure.

But honestly, even if he hadn't killed the Daimyo or summoned Hamura's statue to destroy the village, simply leaving openly with his clan would have earned him the label. 

The villagers and shinobi, blissfully unaware of their good fortune and unscarred by pain, would still curse the Hyuga clan, branding them as traitors and spreading slander about their so-called atrocities. 

These things were bound to happen as soon as Hyuga left Konohagakure. There was no way to avoid them. 

Hitoshi underestimated human nature. At the start, he believed this village could still be saved. That was his mistake. 

You can't control what others say, 

but you can make sure they never speak again. 

Respect is always earned through force. Once Hyuga rules the ninja world and leaves rivers of blood in his wake, they'll naturally understand whether it was Konohagakure that betrayed Hyuga or Hyuga that defected from the village. 

By then, they'll realize one thing: submitting to Hyuga isn't shameful. 

"I'm in a good mood today, and you happen to be lucky. I'll teach you something." 

Patting the trembling Sakazaki Ryo on the shoulder, Hitoshi's eyes sharpened as lightning crackled in his hand. 

With the pure power of his Byakugan, he didn't have to worry about accurately guiding the path of the lightning. He could definitely replicate that move. 

Even if he messed up, a lightning strike of this level wouldn't faze him. Most people thought his eyes were his greatest weapon, but in reality, it was his body. 

Over there... 

A flash of sharp intent crossed Hyuga Hitoshi's gaze as he noticed two newly arrived "guests." Suddenly, he felt like having some fun. 

Ninjutsu, or chakra shape manipulation, could be adjusted according to the user's intent. 

The most straightforward example was Kakashi's Earth Style Wall with its dog carvings. 

In the original story, Sasuke had a flair for the dramatic, transforming lightning in the sky into a Kirin. 

But if *this* move was executed by Hitoshi with Obito watching nearby... 

There was no need for a Kirin! 

A strange smile spread across Hitoshi's face. He leaped into the air, surrounded by dazzling lightning, and unveiled the Chidori Stream ahead of its time. 

"Watch closely!" 

Watch closely, Obito. 

Hyuga Hitoshi silently thought to himself. 

When the lightning in the sky flashed, and the thunderclouds fully responded to Hyuga Hitoshi's call, a familiar face, crafted entirely of blue lightning, appeared vividly in the sky, lying down. 

Hyuga Hitoshi precisely landed on its back. 

"The name of this technique is... Riding Rin!" 

In front of everyone, Hyuga Hitoshi's voice echoed through the air. Then, with a fierce motion, he slapped the lightning beast's rear, sending it crashing down with unstoppable force! 

The ultimate lightning-style forbidden jutsu, surpassing S-rank, a technique only Hyuga Hitoshi's powerful body could handle— 

Kirin! 

At this moment, in the skies above the underground bounty station, it finally debuted! 

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