The scarlet flash of the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan rendered Shennong helpless. As his vision blurred, Hanekawa's hands began to glow with healing chakra—a soft, pale green that enveloped the fallen man completely.
Hanekawa's expression grew serious as he assessed the damage.
This is bad. Really bad.
Shennong had burned through half his life force. The injuries weren't just from physical activation and regeneration—the Eight Gates had left their mark. Opening the eighth gate meant death. Using only the first seven with those forbidden medical techniques created a different kind of damage, but damage nonetheless.
Hanekawa worked methodically, his hands moving with practiced precision. Ten minutes of concentrated healing later, he withdrew his chakra. Shennong would live, at least for now. That was enough.
He grabbed Shennong's shoulders and vanished in a flash of yellow light.
---
Angkor Fortress - Interior
The Hidden Cloud had sent mostly chunin and genin. The real threats—the ANBU special jonin—had fallen to Kurenai, Rin, and Hanekawa's elite team without casualties. A few injuries, but nothing permanent after Rin's medical attention.
Two figures materialized in the command center.
"Hanekawa!" Kurenai rushed forward, her ruby eyes scanning him for injuries. Only when she confirmed he was unharmed did she relax.
"I'm fine," he assured her, glancing around. All ANBU First Team members present. No deaths. Good.
"Show me Zero Tail."
Shennong led him deeper into the fortress. The floor split open, revealing a massive underground chamber. A transparent cylinder dominated the space, and inside it—
A mud-colored serpentine creature writhed in agitation, its mask-like face contorting with rage. Tentacles of dark chakra lashed against the glass as sealing formulas blazed along the container's exterior.
Hanekawa recognized the seals immediately. Uzumaki clan work. He'd been studying their techniques with Minato and Kushina.
"Activate the fortress," Hanekawa commanded.
Shennong moved to the control console. The entire structure shuddered as chakra surged through its systems. Zero Tail's seals flared brilliantly, drawing the creature's dark chakra upward through the walls.
The fortress rose into the air with a deafening roar.
---
The Surface
Mountains crumbled. Forests collapsed. The true form of Angkor Fortress emerged—a colossal structure covered in enormous human face statues.
"It's... amazing," Rin whispered, awestruck.
Samui and the others stared in silence, experiencing their first ride on a flying fortress.
Hanekawa returned to the control room where Shennong manipulated the massive disc-shaped controls. The main screen displayed the landscape below, shrinking rapidly.
Black technology, Hanekawa thought with a slight smile.
"Can we go to the top?" Kurenai appeared beside him, her curiosity evident.
"Of course."
They climbed to the fortress's peak, where the massive stone faces stretched endlessly. Kurenai approached the edge, taking in the vast landscape below—mountains, forests, plains all receding into the distance.
She remembered the night Hanekawa had taken her flying. That kiss had made her forget everything else. Now she could finally appreciate the view properly.
Hanekawa scanned the fortress methodically. One chakra cannon. Pathetic. In the original timeline, Naruto's team had destroyed this place easily.
We can fix that.
He envisioned the transformation: chakra cannons covering the entire structure, detonating tags, ninja tools positioned strategically. With air superiority, this fortress would be devastating.
His thoughts drifted to Konan. She could fly. Her paper techniques would be perfect for managing an aerial force. Once Black Zetsu was dealt with, he'd put her in charge.
The fortress flew toward Konoha.
---
Outside the Death Forest
The massive structure drew immediate attention. Ordinary villagers could only gawk. Most ninja lacked the strength to approach. Reports flooded to the Hokage's office.
Fortunately, Tsunade had been warned in advance.
She arrived as the fortress settled, her expression grave as she assessed its scale.
"This is the Angkor Fortress?" she asked, studying it carefully.
"Yes. I'm thinking we should establish an aerial ninja unit around it," Hanekawa suggested.
Tsunade considered this for a moment. "Then do it."
She watched as Hanekawa produced a scroll. "These contain two forbidden medical techniques: Physical Activation and Physical Regeneration."
Her eyes widened as she read. Even for one of the world's greatest medical ninjas, the techniques were impressive. Pity such talent doesn't belong to Konoha.
"Can these be taught?" Hanekawa asked.
"Forbidden techniques are difficult, but yes. If medical ninja could learn these..." Tsunade trailed off, the implications clear. Medical ninja would become combat powerhouses. The entire dynamic of ninja warfare would shift.
"You did well on this mission," she said, smiling.
"What's my reward?" Hanekawa asked, blinking innocently.
"Come to my office."
---
Hokage's Office
Hanekawa barely let her sit before pushing her back into the chair. His lips found hers—soft, warm, perfect. She tasted like sake and something uniquely Tsunade.
Her arms wrapped around his neck as she surrendered to the kiss, her body responding with an intensity that surprised even her.
When they finally parted, both breathing heavily, Tsunade's cheeks flushed a becoming pink.
"Teacher, you're beautiful," Hanekawa murmured, burying his face in her chest.
The subtle fragrance of her skin filled his senses.
"Smooth talker," she replied, but her fingers stroked his hair tenderly.
Hanekawa shifted slightly, pressing against her soft curves.
"Don't move!" Tsunade's hand came down on his head—not hard, but firm. "We're in the Hokage's office."
"Yes, Teacher," he said obediently, content to remain in her embrace.
After a moment, Tsunade seemed to realize what was happening. She gently pushed him up. "It's work time. I have duties."
Hanekawa leaned down for one more kiss before using Flying Thunder God to vanish.
Tsunade touched her lips, a soft smile playing at their corners. This boring job just became much more interesting.
---
ANBU Base
Hanekawa sat at his desk, lost in thought. Forming an aerial unit would take time. Better to wait until Akatsuki fulfilled its three-year contract. For now, he'd focus on transforming the fortress itself.
He sketched out a basic modification plan—appearance and firepower improvements.
"Aoi," he called.
His assistant appeared. "The Dragon Girl is at Angkor Fortress."
"Assign personnel according to this scroll. And bring the Dragon Girl back."
"Yes, sir."
Hanekawa closed his eyes, reviewing his new entry.
[B-Rank Talent Entry: You Are Shennong]
[Trigger Condition: Defeat Shennong]
[Effect: All medical ninjutsu effectiveness increases by 100%]
Excellent. His Yang Release—medical ninjutsu—had only received a 150% bonus from his A-Rank Medical Jonin entry. Now with an additional 100%, it reached 250%.
I'm now the strongest medical ninja in the world. Even Tsunade can't compare.
He opened his eyes and stood, moving to the sofa. Crossing his legs, he began practicing Sage Mode.
With his Ability System, once he successfully performed it once, he'd immediately reach proficiency. No grinding necessary.
A knock interrupted his meditation.
"Come in."
Samui entered, and Hanekawa pulled her into his lap. She settled against him naturally, arms around his neck.
"How's the fortress?" he asked, his hand pressing gently against her heart.
"Everything's normal," she replied in her characteristic cold tone, though her face flushed slightly.
"You worked hard today. I'll reward you tonight," he said, his hand drifting lower.
Samui's breath caught. "I... I'll wait for you."
After holding her a while longer, he patted her rear. "I need to practice."
She stood quickly, reluctant but obedient.
---
Evening - Konan's Report
Before leaving work, Hanekawa received intelligence: Nagato had mastered the Asura Path and Hell Path of the Rinnegan.
Four of the Six Paths down. Two remaining, plus the Outer Path—which Black Zetsu needed to resurrect Madara.
Time was running out.
---
New Year's Eve - December 31st
Heavy snow fell across Konoha, the sky darker than usual.
"I'm leaving, Kurenai," Hanekawa said to Kurenai, who looked reluctant.
"Ah," she acknowledged quietly, knowing he'd be with Tsunade tonight.
"Don't look sad. It's almost New Year," he said, tilting her chin up. "Smile for me."
She rolled her eyes instead.
"Even that's beautiful," he murmured, kissing her softly.
Kurenai's eyes widened, then closed as she kissed him back, her arms around his neck.
"Wait for me," he whispered, then vanished.
---
Tsunade's Home
Hanekawa appeared in her living room. Tsunade was still asleep, so he knocked on her bedroom door.
"Time to wake up, Teacher."
The door opened to reveal Tsunade in black pajamas, the fabric straining against her curves. The hem ended at mid-thigh, revealing long, pale legs.
Hanekawa's eyes lit up as he pulled her into his arms.
"Mmm," she murmured sleepily, leaning into him.
His hand drifted upward.
Tsunade suddenly came awake. "Go cook!" she ordered, though her face flushed.
"Yes, Teacher," he said regretfully.
---
Later That Day
"What should we do today?" Hanekawa asked over breakfast.
"Stay up for the New Year," Tsunade replied.
"I meant during the day."
"Oh. Let's go to the casino!"
Hanekawa stared at her. "Teacher, it's New Year's Day."
"Exactly! New Year means gambling!" she said matter-of-factly.
He was speechless. She had a point.
"If you come with me, I'll give you the reward you want," Tsunade said, her eyes glinting with promise.
"What reward?"
"You'll find out tonight."
They spent the day at the casino. Hanekawa practiced sealing techniques while Tsunade gambled, her luck improving whenever he was near.
---
Night - Walking Home
"Let's walk back," Tsunade said as they left the casino.
After a few steps, she stopped. "Carry me on your back."
Hanekawa turned around. Tsunade jumped onto him, wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. He held her firm buttocks, feeling her soft weight against him.
"Teacher, your heart is racing," he observed.
"I'm just happy," she said, resting her chin on his shoulder, her beautiful eyes full of emotion.
"What are you happy about?"
"After a day of gambling, isn't that enough?"
"You really love gambling."
"Not my favorite," Tsunade said, her voice taking on a different quality. She reached out and poked his face. "You are."
Hanekawa's heartbeat slowed. So direct. So unlike the shy girls he knew. He liked it.
"What are you thinking?" Tsunade asked, leaning close to his ear and gently biting it.
His body trembled at the sensation.
"About what reward you promised," he admitted.
"Don't I know what you want, little brat?" She stroked his face tenderly.
Hanekawa's pace quickened.
Tsunade pouted, but her body stirred with warmth. She'd thought herself beyond desire, but apparently not. Not just desire—affection. Real affection.
---
Tsunade's Home
When they arrived, Tsunade released him and hugged him instead. "Why? Don't want to let me go?"
"I can't bear to," Hanekawa said honestly. "You're soft and fragrant. Comfortable."
"So... holding me?" she asked, embracing him tighter.
"Very comfortable. I want this forever."
Tsunade's eyes softened. She stood on tiptoe and kissed him deeply.
When they parted, she whispered, "I'm going to shower."
She walked away, leaving only her graceful silhouette.
Hanekawa sat on the sofa, listening to the water run, his heart racing with anticipation and nervousness.
The bathroom door opened.
Tsunade emerged wrapped in a white towel, her collarbone forming a perfect curve, snow-white skin exposed, the towel ending at her knees to reveal slender calves.
Hanekawa swallowed hard.
"Go shower," she said, her heartbeat quickening under his gaze.
He nodded with difficulty and looked away.
---
When Hanekawa returned, Tsunade wasn't in the living room. He found her in her bedroom, changing the bedding. She sat on the mattress, legs crossed, and smiled.
"Don't you want your reward?"
She untied the towel.
Hanekawa froze. Her body was perfect—curves in all the right places, pale skin, powerful and beautiful. Better than Samui, if he was being honest.
"Hanekawa," Tsunade whispered, extending her hand.
He walked forward as she undressed him, her eyes briefly meeting his before she blushed and looked away.
He buried himself in her embrace, and she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close.
"You're such a child," she murmured, but her grip tightened.
---
The night deepened. Snow fell outside the window. The sounds of passion filled the room, muffled by Tsunade's control of the air.
Hours passed.
"It's only the middle of the night," Hanekawa said with a smile as Tsunade lay exhausted against him.
"Don't be proud, kid!" she gasped, her voice hoarse. "Again!"
"I won't be polite," he said, grabbing her ankle.
The night stretched on, long and intense.
When dawn broke and the snow had stopped, Tsunade's voice was barely a whisper. "How many times have you said it was the last time? You don't keep your word."
"This time it's true," Hanekawa said, holding her close. "Sleep."
"I'll settle this when I wake up," she hummed, closing her eyes.
Hanekawa smiled. You can't blame me for this. Blame yourself for not wanting to admit defeat.
As a man, he couldn't let her win.
But he had to admit—the Yin Seal was powerful. And he had a cheat.
It had been a long, fierce, and very satisfying battle.
---
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