Everyone Had Issues in Their Heads

"It's good that you know what you're doing," Shuichi said calmly, showing he had considerable confidence in Shisui. "Could you explain the specifics of using Kotoamatsukami in detail? It's related to how long your eyes can be used."

Shisui was taken aback, but instead of asking Shuichi what he meant, he trusted him completely and explained the ability of Kotoamatsukami to him.

Their relationship was extraordinary. Apart from a few Genjutsu, most of Shisui's Ninjutsu abilities came from Shuichi's teaching. They were not master and disciple, but their relationship was even closer than that of master and disciple. It's just that the two were not a generation apart in age back then, so they lacked a formal title.

This so-called "ultimate Genjutsu" can be summarized in one sentence: invading the brain and altering will, but it is not simple to use.

Just like Obito's right eye Kamui only has one ability: [transfer between reality and another dimension], but when used, it manifests as intangibility, inhalation, and movement after locating coordinates.

Simply put, Kotoamatsukami injects their Mental Energy into the other person's brain, allowing a certain thought to dominate and thus control their physical actions.

After Shisui's explanation, Shuichi concluded that this Genjutsu can be roughly divided into two modes of use: guiding and amplifying.

In terms of timeliness, the effect varies depending on the amount of chakra output.

For example, guiding a brief shift in the enemy's will:

Assuming that in battle, the enemy has three options in mind: defend in place, attack forward, or retreat, Shisui can quickly activate Kotoamatsukami with minimal consumption of his Dojutsu.

At this moment, Yin Release Chakra silently invaded the enemy's mind, making the choice to attack completely outweigh the other two thoughts.

This manifests as the enemy glaring at you and charging at you like a madman, while Shisui sets a trap and prepares Ninjutsu attack beforehand, causing the opponent to foolishly walk right into the line of fire and be killed.

This method of use, which is more about guidance and interference, doesn't consume much Dojutsu; with a little overexertion, it can even be used consecutively for a short period of time.

In the original work, Danzo's Genjutsu against Mifune was exactly like this. Mifune originally had the idea of making Danzo the commander of the Allied Forces (one of five options, or one of fire, lightning, and earth), but after Kotoamatsukami invaded, the option of recommending other Kage immediately took precedence.

Itachi's plan to use Sasuke fell somewhere between guiding and twisting his will. Sasuke himself had an extremely deep bond with Konoha. If it weren't for Obito's misleading, his desire to protect Konoha and his desire for revenge would have been roughly equal.

This technique does have a chance of success, but it could also fail if Sasuke's Dojutsu increases.

As for Shuichi's plan—to completely control Kakuzu with Kotoamatsukami —it was the most difficult to accomplish, since the other party had no intention of serving Konoha at all.

Therefore, Shisui would first need to create a will to inject into the past, and then consume a terrifying amount of Dojutsu to succeed, which is difficult to achieve in a fierce battle.

Moreover, this one glance will likely cause nearsightedness of 400 degrees, with a cooldown period of over 10 years. Without the help of the First Hokage Cells to recover, it can probably only be used on two people (who are not stronger than oneself) in a lifetime.

"After the Mangekyō Sharingan is awakened, it gradually fades into darkness. In other words, each time the special abilities of the eyes are used, the distance to blindness increases."

Shuichi told Shisui some bad news, mentally calculating how long Uchiha Sasuke had been playing around in the original story. "I don't know the exact time, but if we fight at full strength, it probably won't take more than half an hour, so you have to keep that in mind."

Shisui was shocked by this secret. He had been listening closely when Shuichi told Itachi the story of the Uchiha and Senju, so he didn't doubt the veracity of the information.

After a moment of silence, he quickly shook off the slight fear that had arisen in his mind, "That's enough, senior!"

I will never use this ability again unless it's absolutely necessary. If my people find out this, I believe they won't spread it around so much anymore.

"I'm glad you think that way." Shuichi smiled and turned to leave. "However, this should be considered a secret of your clan. There's no need to make a big fuss about it and let people from other villages know. After communicating with Chief Fugaku, just calm down the few hotheads."

"Yes! I understand!"

Shuichi didn't rush to install the First Hokage Cells on Shisui. Unlike Itachi, Shisui was currently Third Hokage's direct Anbu. He wasn't as meticulous as Kakashi and Itachi, and his personality was a bit naive.

If this news were to accidentally be reported, it might not have much impact on his status as the successor to the Hokage, but the inquiries from the village's higher-ups would definitely drive him crazy, especially since Danzo, who wanted to use Wood Release technology, was still secretly active.

After Shuichi and Shisui finished their conversation, the gentle and humble young ninja immediately began visiting various places the following day.

Families with battle-worn ninjas, along with other large and small clans in the village, also actively participate in the daily patrols of the Security Force.

When he was disciplining his people, he also showed an extremely sincere attitude towards all the villagers. Whenever a minor conflict occurred in the village, he would arrive in time to do his best to satisfy everyone.

People have a good impression of Uchiha Shisui, this newly promoted top expert, and with the Security Department chief Fugaku frequently making overtures, the Uchiha's reputation has at least not turned negative.

Such a major event occurring so soon after the New Year seems to foreshadow an extraordinary year ahead.

Within Konoha, after discussions among the higher-ups, the village is about to undergo its largest reshuffling and promotion in ten years.

Many veteran ninjas who had served through Second Shinobi War to the end of Third Shinobi War retired to the second line, while a large number of talented young people were promoted to the middle ranks, and a new era was about to begin.

"Teacher, I already know about what happened to Brother Shisui's eyes."

Walking down the streets of Konoha, Itachi, unusually, took the initiative to ask, "Could you teach me the Flying Thunder God Technique?"

"Huh? You actually changed your mind?" Shuichi turned to look at him in surprise, his face full of smiles. "Teaching you is no problem, of course. What, worried you won't be able to save your comrades in time?"

"..." Itachi paused for a moment.

Having awakened his Mangekyou Sharingan in just a few years, he had already mastered the use of the Three-Tomoe, a talent that was in no way inferior to Shisui's. However, the process of awakening the Mangekyō Sharingan was truly...

"You've become attached to appearances. When faced with the growing power that easily leads to losing oneself, the best approach is to recognize oneself and then actively confront it."

Shuichi's smile faded, and he said seriously, "Just let things take their natural course. A ninja can't choose to run away. If you also encounter an accident and awaken your Sharingan, use your power where it's needed, and others will eventually understand!"

After giving Itachi a pep talk, the two walked together to the village's famous Three-Color Dumpling Shop.

People like Shuichi and Kakashi used to frequent this restaurant, so it probably holds a similar status to Ichiraku Ramen in the original manga.

Especially since the village has just undergone a major reshuffle, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to call it a "gathering place for young Jonin".

"Hey Kakashi, you look... pretty good." Shuichi greeted Kakashi, who was leaning against the wall reading a book in a relaxed manner, with a hint of teasing in his voice.

Kakashi recently left the Anbu, and Shuichi himself was the mastermind behind it.

After Shisui activated his Mangekyo, he immediately mentioned to the Third Hokage the impact of his time in the Anbu on his Sharingan, and the latter quickly accepted his opinion.

Considering that the Anbu is not short of people for the time being, the Third Hokage took the time to talk to Kakashi about how the Fourth Hokage discovered his weaknesses and how he trusted him, etc.

After undergoing a series of "fire" educations, the white-haired youth, whose souls were purified, was quickly released from his cage and made a new pillar of the village.

"You weren't late today, huh? Looks like you haven't quite shaken off the habits you picked up from the Anbu."

The Kakashi before him finally matched the image from Shuichi's memories of the original work: a standard Jonin Vest ninja attire, a dead fish eye hanging on his mask, and a book in his hand... <Thoughts Across Time 5>.

"When have I ever been late...?"

"Kakashi, I'm here!"

Kakashi was about to retort when a green figure came rushing towards them from a distance. As it drew nearer, a sidestep kicked up a cloud of dust, polluting the environment. Neat teeth gleamed in the sunlight.

"I never expected to have such a great opportunity so soon after becoming Jonin. How about letting our first batch of students compete in our place? It's absolutely the perfect way to have a match!"

"Hey, Shuichi and Itachi are here too..." Azure Beast scratched his head, a little belatedly realizing.

No sooner had he finished speaking than two more people followed behind Might Guy. "You bastard, how do you have so much energy?"

Shuichi glanced over and saw familiar fellow newly Jonin.

After a failed romance, Ishikawa Tatsuki worked hard and persevered for many years, finally paying off his loan and about to realize his dream of becoming Teacher Ishikawa.

After the Guardian Ninja disbanded last year, Asuma returned to the village and spent more than half a year accumulating mission experience to complete his promotion. Having a father who is Hokage must have been an easy life for him.

If we include Shuichi's fiancée, Yūhi Kurenai, then all four of Konoha's Jonin from the original manga are present.

After exchanging a few pleasantries, everyone went into the store together. Last year, Asuma learned that Kurenai and Shuichi were engaged, and said he wanted to test his strength again to see if he could protect Kurenai. He had obviously forgotten who saved him when he was about to die many years ago.

Shuichi felt obligated to teach him a lesson: one should know how to be grateful! So he had a very serious battle with him...

"Speaking of which, graduation from the Ninja Academy is in a couple of days. Shouldn't we receive the list of our students soon?"

As soon as Ishikawa Tatsuki sat down, he couldn't wait to ask, "Have there been any outstanding geniuses in recent years?"

He felt his requirements weren't high; he'd be fine with anyone slightly inferior to Uchiha Itachi. That shouldn't be... too high, right?

Although it's a bit Jonin to Special Jonin who's almost ten years younger than him, perhaps his greatest strength lies in teaching the younger generation?

Kakashi's light, airy voice shattered his illusions. "Two guys might grow up enough to become Special Jonin, the rest... seem about the same."

"..."

Shuichi smiled to himself. Fortunately, he had already trained many top geniuses, and the Third Hokage would never allow Hokage successor to mentor mediocre people.

Although the truth may sound harsh, it is an undeniable fact. Frankly speaking, this year's graduates have actually benefited greatly.

These young Jonin are going to be important figures in the village. If I can get acquainted with them, I'll never suffer any losses as long as I work hard in the future.

After they finished their meal at the dumpling shop and chatted for a while before parting ways to go about their own business, Kakashi called out to Shuichi, "Um... Shuichi, I have something I want to talk to you about."

Shuichi saw that Kakashi looked relaxed, but the tacit understanding they had developed over time reminded him that what Kakashi was about to say was highly confidential.

So Shuichi gestured for Itachi to leave, and the two strolled casually until they reached a large forest outside the village, where they began to discuss the problem.

"This thing you gave me is really something else..." Kakashi took off his thick Forehead Protector, revealing his Sharingan, and said, "If I'm not mistaken, it should be the First Hokage's Wood Release Cells!"

"Yes." Shuichi didn't hide anything, but instead looked at his left eye with interest. "You called me here today not to confirm something that's easy to guess, so... is it the process of Shisui awakening his eye that made you suspicious?"

"That's right, not long ago, this eye came... a name that seems to be meant to be, Kamui."

Kakashi covered his Sharingan, his expression serious and slightly somber, and asked, "I want to know, is the awakening process of the Mangekyō Sharingan related to the help of the First Hokage Cells, or...?"

"Hmm..." Shuichi was slightly annoyed. Why did all these guys have psychological problems because of the Mangekyo? If it were a transmigrator, wouldn't it just be all about being strong and handsome?

"It has nothing to do with the First Hokage Cells." After thinking for a while, he decided to tell the truth, but in as tactful as possible, "Wood Release's life force can reduce the user's physical burden and support Dojutsu, but it cannot help Sharingan."

Shuichi actually thinks it's somewhat helpful, but the number and level of Yang Release techniques must be at least several levels higher than Yin Release techniques. The small piece of meat that Kakashi used certainly wouldn't provide the Eye of the Storm service.

"..."

The scene immediately fell silent. Shuichi's meaning was clear: this Kamui wasn't powered by the First Hokage Cells or something Kakashi had trained himself.

So, by simple reasoning, this ability must have originated from a moment when his painful emotions surged, and it seems... the only situation that fits this best is when he personally killed Lin.

"Don't think too much. You inherited the will of Obito and Rin; you must carry their legacy to see the world clearly."

Shuichi once again transformed into a spiritual mentor, a role he said he was already quite adept at.

He walked over, put his arm around Kakashi's shoulder, and dragged him back, saying, "Soon you'll have a new title, Kakashi-sensei! Your every move might be imitated by your students."

"The younger generation in the village who admire you will inherit your will. It is your duty to use this ability to protect them and help them grow. Think of the expectations that Obito, Rin, and Senior Minato had for you. Don't let your comrades' sacrifices be in vain."

After being bombarded with a series of heartwarming platitudes, Shuichi was even surprised himself. "When the hell did I become so professional? I've completely mastered the classic quotes from the original work!"

Kakashi was startled upon hearing this.

Yes, Lin willingly sacrificed herself to protect the village. Was it really necessary for her to dwell on the selfless sacrifices of her companions?

During his time in the Anbu, the Sharingan had saved his teammates countless times, and now it was time for him to set an example!

"Well... getting past me isn't that easy." Kakashi, having recovered, returned to his deadpan expression. "If anyone doesn't value their comrades, I won't let them pass."

Shuichi chuckled and said, "That's your problem. By the way, I noticed you've been flipping through that book for quite a while. Here are three of my unpublished new works; take them and enjoy them at your leisure."

"..." Kakashi was speechless as he saw three white-covered novels being shoved at him. They were clearly trying to drain him dry.

Such an idea is not without basis. In recent years, Shuichi has been the emperor of the Adult Novel Industry. The health of countless Land of Fire Nobles has deteriorated, the business of Specialty Medicine Vendors has become more and more prosperous, and many people have even paid for the "GG" position in the book. He can be said to be making money hand over fist.

This was only because Shuichi was being restrained Jiraiya some room to maneuver, deliberately delaying the release of his book to allow him to make some money. In Kakashi's book list, "Icha Icha Paradise" was already near the bottom.

"Don't worry, I've changed my style. This time it's Pure Romance Series!" Shuichi's tone carried a devilish allure.

Kakashi made up his mind that he must use strong willpower to restrain his desire to open the book; good things should be saved for later appreciation.

But after a while, I couldn't resist, "I'll just take a look at what the synopsis is..."

[In male-male relationships, penises and holes are indispensable. They gradually uncover each other's shameful secrets, touching the most sensitive areas. Only through tolerance can a bond be formed...]

Snap!

He dared not continue reading, immediately closed the cover and put it away, but he felt incredibly upset. Tonight... he was probably going to have to stay up all night again!

I don't believe a single pure romance anime!

Kakashi immediately retorted, "How do you know so much?!"

Shuichi's lips curled up, and he said unhurriedly, "Perhaps... I have more practical experience?"

"..."