Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki delays his trip to the Land of Demons to forge the Black Holy Grail first.
• He establishes a factory in the Land of Rain to produce clean drinking water, using the daimyo's name to avoid suspicion.
• Natsuki travels to Sunagakure and partners with Pakura to supply water to Sunagakure and the Land of Wind, with Kakuzu handling the business negotiations.

Character Developments

• Natsuki continues to expand his influence and businesses, demonstrating his strategic thinking and resourcefulness.
• Pakura shows ambition and determination to become the next Kazekage, accepting Natsuki's offer for mutual benefit.
• Kakuzu returns to the Rain Country Metropolis and takes charge of the Hope Water Factory, showing eagerness for the new business opportunity.

Significant Themes

• The importance of resources and their control in the Ninja World, with water being a crucial lifeline for Sunagakure and the Land of Wind.
• The power of partnerships and alliances, as seen in Natsuki's cooperation with Pakura and the daimyo of the Land of Rain.
• The potential for business and trade to drive change and growth in the Ninja World.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki and Pakura form a partnership, with Natsuki offering water and Pakura agreeing to cooperate under the daimyo's name.
• Natsuki entrusts Kakuzu with handling the business negotiations with Pakura, showing trust in his abilities.
• Granny Cat provides Natsuki with the materials for the Black Holy Grail, revealing that one material might be found in the Land of Demons.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki, Nawaki, and Yakushi Nonō leave Konoha for the Land of Demons.
• They meet Priestess Miroku, who asks Natsuki to destroy Mōryō, the demon sealed by her lineage.
• Natsuki agrees, revealing his true purpose: to use the Blood Curse on Miroku, making her his subordinate.
• Miroku agrees, hoping that Natsuki will destroy Mōryō permanently, ending the priestess lineage's tragic fate.
• Natsuki plans to use the Black Holy Grail to absorb Mōryō's power, needing Moonstone from the Land of Demons for this purpose.

Character Developments

• Natsuki: Shows his ambition and ruthlessness, willing to use Miroku to achieve his goals.
• Miroku: Accepts her fate, hoping that Natsuki will destroy Mōryō and end her lineage's suffering.
• Nawaki: Practices Zoro's One Sword Style and uses Eyeball Clones for reconnaissance.
• Yakushi Nonō: Studies Weather Arts and Medical Ninjutsu, showing curiosity and eagerness to learn.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice: Miroku's willingness to pay any price to destroy Mōryō and end her lineage's suffering.
• Ambition: Natsuki's desire to control powerful entities like Miroku to further his goals.
• Fate: The priestess lineage's tragic fate and Miroku's hope to change it.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki and Miroku: Negotiate the terms of Miroku's transformation into a demon.
• Natsuki and Nawaki: Travel together, with Nawaki practicing swordsmanship and using Eyeball Clones.
• Natsuki and Yakushi Nonō: Teach her Weather Arts and discuss her studies in Medical Ninjutsu.

Key Plot Points

• Natsuki infiltrates the Yomi Cult’s lab in the Land of Demons, where cult leader Yomi has been failing to release Mōryō’s soul via experimental medical ninjutsu on victims.
• Natsuki uses his Three-Tomoe Sharingan to control Yomi, then modifies his medical technique so Yomi can successfully become Mōryō’s temporary jinchūriki.
• Natsuki retrieves the Black Holy Grail from Dawn Company, learning it can absorb chakra from a suppressed target to become complete.
• With priestess Miroku guiding them, Natsuki, Nawaki, and Nonō travel to the sealing shrine in the Land of Swamps, where Mōryō’s body is sealed.
• Yomi releases Mōryō’s soul; the entity emerges as a giant, corrosive, tentacled monster.
• Nawaki attacks first but is overwhelmed by Mōryō’s corrosive chakra and mental shockwave; Natsuki rescues him.
• Natsuki defeats Mōryō using a combination of Kidō, ice-based Blood Demon Arts, a giant Thunder Golem, and iron-sand attacks, finally pinning Mōryō down.
• He uses the Black Holy Grail to absorb Mōryō’s chakra/soul, permanently destroying the immortal being and completing the Black Holy Grail.
• The chapter ends with Natsuki unlocking Artoria Template Ability Four: Infinite Mana.

Character Developments

• Natsuki: Shows strategic ruthlessness (using Yomi then discarding him) and overwhelming combat versatility; gains the Infinite Mana ability.
• Nawaki: Eager and overconfident, he learns his limits after being defeated by Mōryō, relying on Natsuki to save him.
• Miroku: Nervous at first, she witnesses Mōryō’s destruction and feels her connection to him break, gaining hope for her freedom.
• Yomi: Controlled and used as a pawn; his fate is left ambiguous, but he was marked as a target.

Significant Themes

• Power through manipulation and preparation.
• Overcoming seemingly immortal evil with superior technique and strategy.
• Tension between destiny (priestess lineage) and freedom.
• The pursuit of ultimate power (“Infinite Mana”).

Character Interactions

• Natsuki mentally dominates and guides Yomi.
• Natsuki carries Miroku on his back, showing a growing closeness.
• Natsuki protects and saves Nawaki, reinforcing his role as the team’s leader.
• Nawaki’s futile battle contrasts with Natsuki’s effortless dismantling of Mōryō.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points

• Natsuki defeats Mōryō using Blood Demon Art: Crystalline Ice and Magnet Release, with the Black Holy Grail playing a hidden role
• He absorbs Mōryō's power into the Black Holy Grail, gaining near-inexhaustible Chakra and a forehead mark similar to Tsunade's Yin Seal
• Natsuki awakens the Kikyo Template (from Inuyasha), gaining 8 abilities:
  1. Resurrection After Death (unlocked) — revives on death with a clay body + Soul-Stealing Insects
  2. Arrow of Exorcism (locked) — holy arrow effective against non-humans; kill 5 Jonin at long range
  3. Sealing Arrow (locked) — eternal sleep effect; learn 5 sealing jutsu
  4. Defensive Barrier (locked) — learn Four Red Yang Formation
  5. Concealment Barrier (locked) — defeat 5 Sensory Jonin
  6. Dimensional Seal (locked) — learn a Space-Time Ninjutsu or develop Door-Door Fruit ability
  7. Priestess Purification Technique (locked) — kill a Yin Release monster (Jonin-level)
  8. Opening the Gates of Hell (locked) — learn Impure World Reincarnation
• Natsuki returns to the shrine and honors his deal: Miroku accepts his blood, becoming his subordinate
• Miroku gains 3 abilities: Partial Demon Transformation, Complete Demon Transformation, and Blood Demon Art: Summoning (summoning monsters from another world via blood)

Character Developments

• Natsuki: Grows significantly stronger with Mōryō's power and the Kikyo Template; consciously strategizes how to justify his new abilities (chalking up Crystalline Ice to the Chinoike Clan, distinguishing his Magnet Release from the Kazekages)
• Miroku: Realizes resistance is futile after witnessing Natsuki's strength; chooses to trust him and submits, hoping he keeps his promise
• Nawaki & Yakushi Nonō: Both are astonished and impressed by Natsuki's hidden power; Nonō's admiration for him deepens

Significant Themes

• Power through acquisition — Natsuki continuously harvests power from defeated foes and templates
• Secrecy and trust — Natsuki deliberately hides his true capabilities even from allies, but reveals just enough to maintain credibility
• Deals and loyalty — The blood-contract system binds followers through reciprocal obligations rather than pure force
• Yin/Yang duality — The Kikyo Template emphasizes purification, sealing, and anti-demonic abilities, contrasting with Mōryō's demonic power

Character Interactions

• Nawaki questions where Natsuki's new jutsu came from; Natsuki claims he created them and kept them hidden due to lack of suitable targets
• Yakushi Nonō reflects internally on being constantly surprised by Natsuki, having never seen the four techniques before
• Miroku directly asks how Natsuki killed Mōryō; he deflects with "Secret." She later accepts his blood and becomes his subordinate
• Natsuki & Miroku share a tense, silent moment before completing their blood-contract agreement

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Miroku has been turned into a demon by Natsuki, but her body shows no outward demonic traits; her physical abilities now rival a Chunin’s, and her potential is greater than his other demon subordinates.
• Natsuki instructs Miroku to remain the priestess of the Land of Demons and tells her to report to Konoha that Mōryō was controlled and sealed, not destroyed.
• Natsuki returns to Konoha with Yakushi Nonō and Nawaki, then delivers Miroku’s letter to Hiruzen Sarutobi.
• Hiruzen learns Natsuki has mastered Magnet Release by developing electromagnetic force from Lightning Release (demonstrated with Railgun and manipulating metal objects).
• Hiruzen promotes Natsuki to Anbu Commander.
• Shimura Danzō protests the promotion, claiming Natsuki is too young; Hiruzen firmly refuses to reconsider, leaving Danzō suspicious that the appointment is aimed at Root.
• At the Anbu base, Natsuki reviews Anbu and Root rosters, including noting Sarutobi Shinnosuke as First Squad captain, and the limitations on commanding Root.
• Natsuki decides not to place his own subordinates in the Anbu.
• Back home, Natsuki asks Uzumaki Kushina to teach him Sealing Jutsu, and she begins teaching him to draw sealing formulas; he discovers he has natural artistic talent (implied from the Nami template).

2. Character Developments

• Natsuki: Gains official institutional power as Anbu Commander; continues advancing his strength (Magnet Release, starting Sealing Jutsu training); shows political awareness and long-term planning against Danzō.
• Miroku: Accepts her new demonic nature and Natsuki’s authority; feels her priestess lineage’s thousand-year curse finally ended; adapts to a subordinate role while retaining her position as priestess.
• Hiruzen Sarutobi: Assertively defends his decision against Danzō, showing willingness to back Natsuki as part of the Hokage faction.
• Shimura Danzō: Feels threatened by Natsuki’s appointment; privately decides to suspend Wood Release experiments for now.
• Uzumaki Kushina: Enthusiastically embraces having a companion to study Sealing Jutsu with, showing her pride in Uzumaki sealing arts.

3. Significant Themes

• Power and Promotion: Strength in the ninja world translates into political authority; Natsuki’s growing personal power earns him a high office.
• Sealing vs. Destruction: Natsuki learns that sealing is the practical answer to immortal/chimeric threats like Mōryō, a lesson from the Land of Demons mission.
• Political Rivalry: The Hokage vs. Root conflict becomes more tangible; the Anbu Commander role gives Natsuki leverage to monitor Danzō.
• Mentorship and Learning: Natsuki continues self-improvement through alliances (Kushina teaching Sealing Jutsu), reinforcing that strength requires study, not just combat.

4. Character Interactions

• Natsuki & Miroku: She briefly calls him “Master,” then settles on “Lord Natsuki”; he establishes boundaries and assigns her a continued role.
• Natsuki & Hiruzen: Natsuki demonstrates his new ability; Hiruzen rewards him with Anbu command and praises his talent.
• Danzō & Hiruzen: Direct confrontation over Natsuki’s promotion; Hiruzen rejects Danzō’s demand, deepening Danzō’s suspicion.
• Natsuki & Elephant: Handover of Anbu Commander duties; Elephant explains Root’s semi-independent status and monitoring authority.
• Natsuki & Kushina/Nawaki: Nawaki is confused by Natsuki’s claim that Sealing Jutsu is “most effective” against monsters, despite Natsuki having overpowered Mōryō physically; Kushina happily begins teaching Natsuki sealing formulas.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Pakura reports to the Third Kazekage that she has established a rainwater business between Sunagakure and the daimyo of the Land of Rain. An underground pipeline has been completed, and more than two hundred Sunagakure households are already paying for regular water deliveries.
• The Third Kazekage recognizes that the business could rescue Sunagakure from its severe postwar financial crisis. He authorizes Pakura to select ninja to help manage it and supports her plan to expand the business throughout the Land of Wind.
• Pakura sees the success of the business as a way to strengthen her political position and potentially surpass Rasa as the next Kazekage.
• The Third Kazekage, however, does not intend to let Pakura gain complete control. He plans to divide her authority once the business expands, while continuing to favor his student Rasa as a possible successor.
• Rasa and his supporters, including Baki and Karura, discuss how Pakura’s growing influence threatens them. Rasa decides to wait for the Third Kazekage to limit her authority, though he considers eliminating Pakura if necessary.
• Three months later, the rainwater business is expanded into the Land of Wind. The Third Kazekage appoints Rasa and Li as additional leaders, while keeping Pakura as chief administrator and primary liaison with the Land of Rain’s daimyo.
• Pakura is frustrated by the decision but cannot oppose it because the higher-ranking elders, including Chiyo and Ebizo, support the arrangement. She begins to suspect that Sunagakure’s political structure is less trustworthy than she once believed.
• Natsuki learns that the water trade is actually being conducted through Akatsuki rather than directly through the Land of Rain’s daimyo. Since Pakura remains chief administrator and the profit division is unchanged, Natsuki is satisfied with the outcome and expects Pakura may eventually seek his help.
• Akatsuki’s finances and influence continue to grow. Its forces now include more than one hundred recruited ninja from the Land of Rain, though most are chunin or young genin. CP9 is still in training, while six members of the Twelve Kizuki exist, five of whom have achieved Partial Demon Transformation and reached Special Jonin strength.
• Natsuki continues studying sealing techniques, Bakudō, the Four Red Yang Formation, and Impure World Reincarnation.
• In October, Natsuki finally unlocks Bruno’s sixth template ability: the Door-Door Fruit. He tests it by creating spatial gates and traveling from Konoha’s Forest of Death to Akatsuki’s base in the Land of Rain.
• The Door-Door Fruit allows instant travel to places Natsuki has previously visited, although long-distance movement consumes enormous amounts of chakra. With the Black Holy Grail supplementing his reserves, he successfully crosses the distance between Konoha and the Land of Rain.
• Natsuki reveals the ability to Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato, claiming it is a self-created Space-Time Ninjutsu. The three are delighted, especially because it means he can visit them more often.

Character Developments

• Pakura: Gains political prestige through the success of the water business and becomes more ambitious, hoping to become Kazekage. However, her authority is curtailed, forcing her to confront Sunagakure’s factional politics and possible betrayal.
• Third Kazekage: Shows pragmatic leadership by exploiting the water business to restore Sunagakure’s wealth, while carefully balancing Pakura and Rasa to prevent either from becoming too powerful. He continues to favor Rasa but does not immediately suppress Pakura.
• Rasa: Becomes increasingly wary of Pakura’s influence and begins maneuvering against her. He remains patient, relying on his understanding of his teacher’s political intentions, but is willing to resort to assassination if necessary.
• Natsuki: Expands both his power and strategic reach. The Door-Door Fruit greatly improves his mobility, allowing him to travel instantly between allied locations and maintain closer contact with Akatsuki.
• Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato: Continue developing under Natsuki’s influence. Nagato, in particular, becomes more emotionally open and openly admires Natsuki rather than remaining distant.

Significant Themes

• Political power and factional rivalry: Economic success immediately becomes a source of political influence, leading to competition between Pakura and Rasa.
• Economic recovery as military strategy: Water is treated as a priceless resource in the desert, and control of its distribution could restore Sunagakure’s strength and enable future military ambitions.
• Trust and manipulation: The Third Kazekage praises Pakura while quietly planning to divide her authority. Natsuki also benefits from political tensions, expecting Pakura’s isolation to make her more dependent on him.
• Resource control and hidden alliances: The public water trade conceals Akatsuki’s involvement, showing how economic networks can serve as a foundation for covert power.
• Power growth and expansion: Natsuki’s new ability, along with Akatsuki’s expanding personnel and finances, marks a transition from survival and preparation toward large-scale influence.

Character Interactions

• Pakura and the Third Kazekage: Pakura presents the water business as a service to Sunagakure, while privately seeking political advancement. The Kazekage supports her achievement but subtly limits her authority.
• Rasa and his supporters: Rasa, Baki, Karura, and other jonin debate how to respond to Pakura. Their discussion reveals both fear of the Kazekage’s authority and willingness to consider more violent solutions.
• Pakura, Rasa, and Li: The three are placed in charge of the Land of Wind expansion, with Pakura nominally above the others but no longer able to monopolize the business.
• Natsuki and Akatsuki’s younger members: Natsuki surprises Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato by appearing through a spatial gate. His arrival strengthens their loyalty and excitement, while Nagato’s admiration for him becomes more explicit.

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Natsuki assigns Yahiko, Nagato, Konan, and Ice Woman a mission: investigate Hozuki Castle in the Land of Grass and locate the Box of Ultimate Bliss, a supposed Sage of Six Paths artifact. He warns them not to force a fight with Mui, the castle’s Jonin warden, and notes Ice Woman’s Eyeball Clone Blood Demon Art is ideal for infiltration.
• Natsuki spends New Year with his students before they depart.
• In Konoha, Natsuki uses the pre-New Year lull to spar with twenty Anbu Jonin from the other three squads, defeating all of them with a wide variety of techniques while barely exhausting his chakra.
• As a result, he unlocks four abilities: Lightning Spear (Misaka Mikoto template), Fire Sealing Method (Jiraiya template), Iron Body: Steel (Bruno template), and Concealment Barrier (Kikyo template). Remaining unlocks are noted: hacking requires the internet, Sage Mode is still locked.
• After New Year, the Anbu locates Hiruko hiding in a valley in the Land of Fields. Natsuki travels there, creates Shadow Clones to block all exits, and confronts him.
• Natsuki quickly defeats Hiruko’s three subordinates, who use the Chimera Technique to fuse with animals. Hiruko recognizes Natsuki as Orochimaru’s student and tries to flee, but Natsuki traps him with Bakudō #81 and binds him with Bakudō #63.
• Natsuki plans to keep Hiruko alive for research purposes, controlling him with a drop of blood, and hints at possibly establishing an Otogakure-style village to recruit talent.

2. Character Developments

• Natsuki: Continues growing by systematically unlocking template abilities through combat; shows leadership in both delegating missions and integrating into the Anbu; becomes more pragmatic, deciding to use captured enemies like Hiruko rather than kill them.
• Yahiko, Nagato, Konan, Ice Woman: Given their first independent mission, showing they have graduated from pure training; they are eager, curious, and loyal to Natsuki.
• Sarutobi Shinnosuke & Anbu Jonin: Experience Natsuki’s overwhelming strength firsthand; their awe and fear solidify his authority.
• Hiruko: Goes from confident researcher to desperate fugitive; his defeat and capture mark him as a tool for Natsuki’s future schemes.

3. Significant Themes

• Mentorship & Testing Students: Natsuki deliberately gives his students a challenging mission to temper their real-world skills.
• Power Through Practical Application: Unlocking abilities requires active combat and defeating elite ninja, not just training.
• Knowledge as a Weapon: Natsuki uses foreknowledge of locations, abilities, and psychological weakness (recognizing Orochimaru’s name) to dominate.
• Pragmatic Morality: Enemies are neutralized and repurposed rather than simply executed; control via blood is used as a tool.

4. Character Interactions

• Natsuki ↔ Students: He briefs them on Hozuki Castle, answers their questions about the Box of Ultimate Bliss and Mui, and agrees to celebrate New Year with them.
• Natsuki ↔ Anbu Jonin: He introduces himself as commander, defeats all twenty in one-on-one sparring, and leaves them stunned; Shinnosuke openly concedes and praises Natsuki’s strength.
• Natsuki ↔ Hiruko & subordinates: He dismantles the beast-fused subordinates in seconds, reveals his connection to Orochimaru, and captures Hiruko after a failed escape attempt, ending with him taking control of Hiruko’s life.

Chapter Summary: Setting Pakura Up, Kakashi and Obito Enter the Academy

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki uses a blood curse to transform Hiruko into a Demon under his control, leaving Hiruko unable to disobey or reveal what happened.
• Hiruko gives Natsuki the scroll containing the Chimera Technique. Natsuki confirms that the technique is still incomplete: it can currently fuse Summoning Beasts but cannot yet combine Kekkei Genkai.
• Natsuki decides to have Hiruko begin researching Summoning Beast fusion while continuing to develop the Kekkei Genkai aspect separately.
• Natsuki transports Hiruko and his three subordinates through the Door-Door Fruit to Hidden Snow Village, where they are placed under Honoka’s supervision.
• Upon returning to the Rain Country Metropolis, Natsuki learns that Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Ice Woman have traveled to the Land of Grass.
• Kakuzu reports that Akatsuki’s rainwater business is extremely profitable. Natsuki then begins planning to manipulate Sunagakure’s internal power struggle and recruit Pakura.
• Kakuzu proposes exposing the transport-pipeline locations controlled by Rasa and Li. This would cause them to suspect Pakura, the only other person with knowledge of the routes, and eventually provoke them into attacking her.
• Natsuki orders Kakuzu to carry out the plan and promises to intervene through the Eyeball Clone if Pakura comes under attack.
• Natsuki also suggests dealing with merchants importing river water from the Land of Rivers by controlling that country’s daimyo.
• Two months later, Natsuki attends the Ninja Academy entrance ceremony as Anbu Commander-in-Chief and oversees security for Hiruzen’s appearance.
• He observes several notable new students, including Hatake Kakashi, Sarutobi Asuma, Might Guy, Yuhi Kurenai, Shizune, Uchiha Obito, and Nohara Rin.
• Kakashi arrives with his father, Hatake Sakumo, and declares that he wants to graduate quickly so he can become a ninja like his father.
• Sakumo explains the power of the Eight Gates Formation after seeing Might Duy and Might Guy. Kakashi immediately views Guy as a future rival.
• Hiruzen deliberately places Kakashi and Asuma in the same class, hoping that talented children from different groups will form strong bonds.
• Obito arrives late and misses the enrollment ceremony. Rin meets him at the gate, introduces herself as his classmate, and gives him his enrollment materials—recreating the beginning of their important relationship.
• Back at the Senju compound, Natsuki tells Nawaki and Kushina about the promising new generation.
• Yakushi Nonō explains that new students may immediately join the Medical Ninja Training Class. Natsuki suggests that she recruit talented students such as Rin and Shizune as assistants.

Character Developments

• Natsuki becomes increasingly proactive in manipulating political and economic events. He treats Hiruko as a controlled research asset, seeks to turn Pakura against Sunagakure, and casually proposes controlling foreign leaders to eliminate business competition.
• Hiruko suffers the collapse of his ambitions. His dream of mastering multiple Kekkei Genkai is replaced by forced obedience and continued research under Natsuki’s authority.
• Kakuzu demonstrates his value as Akatsuki’s financial and intelligence specialist. His deep concern over even minor losses reveals how strongly his greed and business instincts remain intact.
• Pakura is positioned to become isolated within Sunagakure. Though she has not yet defected, Natsuki is deliberately creating the circumstances that may force her to seek Akatsuki’s protection.
• Hatake Kakashi is introduced as confident, disciplined, and eager to follow in Sakumo’s footsteps. Unlike his later self, he is still capable of normal social interaction and readily accepts the idea of rivalry.
• Might Guy is presented as energetic and unconventional, while his mastery of the Eight Gates gives him serious future potential despite his eccentric behavior.
• Uchiha Obito remains clumsy and late, but his first meeting with Rin establishes the emotional connection central to his future character.
• Nohara Rin and Shizune are identified as promising medical-ninjutsu candidates.
• Natsuki also begins thinking ahead about which future students he might teach, especially considering the power and danger associated with Obito.

Significant Themes

• Control versus ambition: Hiruko’s grand ambitions are destroyed when Natsuki takes control of his body and research, showing how fragile individual freedom is in the ninja world.
• Political manipulation: Natsuki prefers indirect schemes—economic pressure, mistrust, and controlled conflict—to achieve strategic goals.
• Profit and power: The rainwater business demonstrates how economic resources can become as influential as military strength. Kakuzu’s obsession with profit provides both practical value and comic contrast.
• The shaping of destiny: Familiar relationships from the original timeline begin forming, but Natsuki’s presence creates the possibility of drastically different outcomes.
• The next generation: The Academy ceremony introduces a group of future heroes, rivals, and tragedies. Their early interactions hint at the bonds that will later define Konoha’s history.
• Preparation for war: Hiruzen’s emphasis on medical training reflects his awareness that the current peace is temporary and that Konoha must prepare for another major conflict.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki dominates Hiruko through the blood curse and redirects his research toward Summoning Beast fusion.
• Nadare Rōga receives Hiruko and his subordinates in Hidden Snow Village and is ordered to take them to Honoka.
• Natsuki and Kakuzu cooperate on a scheme to turn Rasa and Li against Pakura, though Kakuzu worries about the effect on Akatsuki’s profits.
• Hatake Sakumo encourages Kakashi to enjoy his childhood, but Kakashi remains focused on becoming a ninja. Sakumo also warns him not to underestimate Guy.
• Hiruzen speaks with Sakumo and deliberately connects Kakashi and Asuma as classmates.
• Kakashi notices Guy’s unusual behavior and immediately views him as a potential rival.
• Rin welcomes the late-arriving Obito and helps him enter Academy life, beginning their friendship.
• Natsuki discusses the new students with Nawaki and Kushina, who admire the quality of the incoming class.
• Nonō discusses the Medical Ninja Training Class with Natsuki, who encourages her to recruit talented students.

Plot points and events

• Natsuki visits Konoha Hospital with Nonō and advises Tsunade to monitor Shizune and Rin as possible future medical ninja. Tsunade confirms both enrolled in her training class.
• Tsunade asks Natsuki how to improve the Yin Seal’s slow access to stored chakra. He suggests spreading the seal’s chakra through the body so it can activate automatically to heal injuries. The idea gives Tsunade a new direction for developing a jutsu.
• In the Land of Fields, Chino recruits the orphan Guren, whose Crystal Release first surfaced when she defended herself. Guren and the other orphans accept Akatsuki’s offer of food and shelter.
• Natsuki welcomes Guren to Akatsuki and assigns Chino to train her.
• Attacks on Sunagakure’s transport routes cause heavy losses. Rasa and his allies suspect Pakura, believing she is retaliating over losing much of the rainwater business. Pakura denies involvement and cannot identify the attackers, but knows the disruption threatens her political ambitions.
• Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Ice Woman return from their mission to Hozuki Castle with the location of the Box of Ultimate Bliss. Natsuki plans to retrieve it the following week and allows Yahiko to accompany him, intending for him to confront Mui.

Character developments and interactions

• Tsunade shows growing confidence in Natsuki’s ideas and treats him as a valuable collaborator in inventing jutsu. Their familiar, teasing rapport remains.
• Natsuki takes a practical, long-term interest in developing medical talent, recruiting Guren, and building Akatsuki’s capabilities.
• Guren is cautious but accepts Chino’s invitation to protect herself and the other orphans. Chino becomes her mentor.
• Rasa grows more ruthless, deciding to enlist Li rather than appeal to the Kazekage. Pakura is increasingly isolated and politically vulnerable, though she remains uncertain who is behind the attacks.
• Yahiko returns eager to continue serving Akatsuki and seeks Natsuki’s permission to join the Box mission; Natsuki encourages his involvement while giving the group time to rest.

Significant themes

• Mentorship and potential: Natsuki and Tsunade invest in promising young people, while Akatsuki offers Guren a path beyond poverty.
• Power and political ambition: Sunagakure’s resource disputes turn into suspicion and violence, endangering Pakura’s bid for leadership.
• Innovation through collaboration: Natsuki’s advice helps Tsunade reimagine the Yin Seal as a foundation for automatic healing.
• Strategic preparation: Natsuki cultivates allies and plans carefully before pursuing the Box of Ultimate Bliss.

Chapter Summary: “Control the Land of Grass, Wish Upon the Box of Ultimate Bliss”

Key Plot Points and Events

• On July 1, Natsuki and his allies approach Hozuki Castle, an isolated prison located within the Land of Grass. Natsuki considers bringing the Land of Grass and Kusagakure under Akatsuki’s control because of Kusagakure’s brutal history and Mui’s suitability as a potential leader.
• Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Ice Woman infiltrate the castle and identify its weak points. Natsuki creates a concealment barrier near the rear cliff and orders them to fight Mui while he searches for the Box of Ultimate Bliss.
• Natsuki lures Mui away from his office. The four young fighters engage Mui in a coordinated battle, using Ice Release, Water Release, Lightning, taijutsu, and specialized abilities. Although Mui is skilled in Fire Release and possesses powerful taijutsu, he is gradually overwhelmed.
• While the battle continues, Natsuki discovers the Box of Ultimate Bliss in an underground chamber beneath Mui’s residence. He cannot store it in a scroll, so he transports it to the Land of Grass through his Door-Door Fruit.
• Natsuki returns to the battle and helps defeat Mui by using Figure Eyes to place him in a daze. He then transforms Mui into a demon through his Blood Curse.
• Mui becomes a Lower Rank member of the Twelve Kizuki. His potential abilities include partial demon transformation and a Blood Demon Art called Illusory Flames, though both remain locked until he develops them independently.
• Natsuki tells Mui that Akatsuki intends to help him become the leader of Kusagakure and take control of the Land of Grass. Yahiko and the others will assist, turning the mission into practical training for them.
• Natsuki opens the Box of Ultimate Bliss by himself using the Black Holy Grail and tells Mui to make the wish. Mui wishes to become “the strongest in the Ninja World,” setting up the next major conflict.

Character Developments

• Natsuki demonstrates strategic ambition and increasing power. He not only defeats and recruits Mui but also expands Akatsuki’s political objectives beyond the Land of Rain. His ability to open the Box of Ultimate Bliss independently reveals the effectiveness of his Black Holy Grail and Enfirea abilities.
• Mui shifts from prison warden and independent Kusagakure ninja to a demon controlled by Natsuki. He is humiliated and resentful after being defeated, but his knowledge of Kusagakure makes him valuable to Akatsuki’s plans. His desire to control the Box of Ultimate Bliss remains central to his motivations.
• Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Ice Woman display strong teamwork and combat growth. Their coordinated assault forces a powerful jonin-level opponent into a disadvantage, proving their effectiveness as a group.
• Nagato particularly surprises Mui with his enormous chakra reserves and powerful Water Release techniques. His skill and potential continue to stand out among the group.
• Konan combines physical attacks, lightning-based equipment, mobility, and battlefield control, showing increasingly diverse abilities.
• Ice Woman, while less capable than the others in direct combat, supports the team with defensive Ice Release and Demonic Mirroring Ice Crystals.
• Natsuki also gains progress toward unlocking the first gate of the Eight Gates Formation after defeating Mui, since Mui qualifies as a taijutsu-oriented jonin.

Significant Themes

• Expansion and political control: Akatsuki is becoming more than a rogue organization; Natsuki intends to control entire territories and hidden villages.
• Power versus autonomy: Mui’s transformation shows the cost of opposing Natsuki. Though he retains his mind, the Blood Curse removes his freedom and forces him into Akatsuki’s service.
• The danger of unchecked wishes: The Box of Ultimate Bliss appears to grant wishes, but its power is deceptive and destructive. Natsuki understands the danger and avoids making the wish himself, instead allowing Mui to take the risk.
• Training through real conflict: Natsuki views political conquest as an opportunity to train Yahiko and the others. Growth comes not only from personal cultivation but also from overcoming complex enemies and missions.
• Manipulation of fate and familiar stories: Natsuki uses his knowledge of future events—particularly Mui’s tragedy and the Box’s dangers—to alter the original course of events and exploit them for Akatsuki’s benefit.
• Teamwork against superior opponents: The battle emphasizes that coordinated abilities and tactical cooperation can overcome a stronger individual.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki acts as mentor and commander, trusting Yahiko’s group to restrain Mui while personally securing the Box.
• Yahiko confidently defends Akatsuki’s strength when Mui questions whether the organization can help him seize Kusagakure.
• Mui responds with suspicion and anger toward Natsuki, especially after being forcibly transformed, but his resistance is weakened by the Blood Curse and Akatsuki’s overwhelming power.
• Natsuki explains his plans to Mui rather than killing him, emphasizing his usefulness as a native Kusagakure leader.
• The chapter ends with Natsuki asserting control over the Box of Ultimate Bliss and Mui making the dangerous wish to become the strongest person in the Ninja World.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mui wishes to become the strongest in the Ninja World using the Box of Ultimate Bliss, which releases Gō, a Yin Release monster.
• Natsuki activates the Blood Curse, forcing Gō out of Mui's body.
• Gō attacks Natsuki, leading to a battle where Natsuki uses various techniques to seal Gō.
• After sealing Gō, Natsuki awakens the Angra Mainyu Template.

Character Developments

• Mui's wish backfires, and he loses his power after Gō leaves him.
• Natsuki demonstrates his strength and versatility in battle, awakening a new Template.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of unchecked ambition (Mui's wish).
• The power of sealing techniques against immortal monsters like Gō.
• The theme of unlocking new abilities and growth.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki and Mui: Natsuki manipulates Mui's wish, leading to Gō's release.
• Natsuki and Gō: Natsuki battles Gō, showcasing his various techniques.
• Natsuki and Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, Ice Woman: They assist Natsuki against Gō but are ultimately protected by Natsuki.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki reveals the true nature of the Box of Ultimate Bliss to Mui: rather than granting limitless power, it is an empty vessel that once contained the monster Gō. With Gō dead, the box’s chakra has dissipated, rendering Kusagakure’s long-standing conflict over it meaningless.
• Mui, a member of the Grass Fruit faction, is devastated by the revelation but accepts Natsuki’s control and agrees to become the next leader of Kusagakure.
• Natsuki assigns Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato to write proposals explaining how Akatsuki can help Mui seize leadership. Konan eventually produces the most detailed plan.
• Natsuki stores the Box of Ultimate Bliss in Infinity Castle, intending to have its nearly indestructible material reforged into a powerful bow and possibly arrows or other ninja tools.
• After returning to the Rain Country Metropolis, Natsuki leaves the Kusagakure political operation to Akatsuki and returns to Konoha to study newly acquired techniques.
• Hiruzen asks Natsuki to help train five-year-old Kakashi, who wants to graduate early from the Ninja Academy. Kakashi will temporarily join Natsuki’s and Minato’s squads for missions and instruction.
• Natsuki then senses that one of his Eyeball Clones has been destroyed. He learns that Pakura was ambushed by Rasa and Li near a transport pipeline.
• Rasa severely wounds Pakura with a Gold Dust Spear, while Li’s poisoned puppet blades cut her limbs. Pakura escapes but is critically injured and collapses at an oasis.
• Natsuki locates Pakura using Eyeball Clones, shadow clones, clairvoyance, and electromagnetic sensing.
• Although Pakura believes her injuries are fatal, Natsuki saves her by giving her Blood Curse energy, administering an antidote, and using the Mystical Palm Technique.
• The Blood Curse transforms Pakura into a demon and places her under Natsuki’s control. Her new abilities include partial and complete demon transformations and a Blood Demon Art called Kyokoku Kamusari, which manipulates flesh and bones.

2. Character Developments

• Mui: Loses his childhood dream and realizes that the Grass Fruit faction’s ambitions were based on a false or misunderstood legend. Though controlled by Natsuki, he accepts becoming Kusagakure’s leader and begins viewing the position as a possible new purpose.
• Natsuki: Demonstrates increasing political influence, strategic planning, and willingness to manipulate enemies. He also seeks to exploit the Box of Ultimate Bliss as a weapon-material source rather than treating it as a mystical artifact.
• Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato: Become more motivated to prove themselves to Natsuki. Their assignment marks a practical test of their organizational and political abilities, with Konan’s proposal emerging as the strongest.
• Kakashi: Is established as an exceptionally talented but extremely young student eager to graduate early. His future training and development will involve Natsuki and Minato.
• Pakura: Changes from an enemy of Natsuki into one of his controlled demon subordinates. Her near-death experience and betrayal by Sunagakure leave her bitter and disillusioned, while her transformation grants her significant future potential.
• Rasa and Li: Are confirmed as the attackers responsible for Pakura’s severe injuries, showing that they are willing to use deception, poison, and assassination against her.

3. Significant Themes

• The collapse of false ideals: The Box of Ultimate Bliss exposes how entire political struggles and wars can be built around unreliable legends.
• Control versus salvation: Natsuki saves Pakura’s life, but the price is surrendering her freedom and becoming bound to him.
• Rebuilding after disillusionment: Mui and Pakura both lose faith in their former causes and are forced into new roles under Natsuki’s influence.
• Power through organization and strategy: Natsuki increasingly relies on Akatsuki’s political planning, alliances, and manipulation rather than direct force alone.
• Transformation and weaponization: Both the box and Pakura are repurposed—one into potential weapons, the other into a demon combatant.
• Mentorship and talent development: Kakashi’s early graduation introduces the importance of guiding prodigies, while Natsuki’s training of Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato continues to shape Akatsuki’s future.

4. Character Interactions

• Natsuki confronts Mui with the truth about the box and directs him toward leadership of Kusagakure.
• Natsuki challenges Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato to compete through written proposals, strengthening their loyalty and ambition.
• Hiruzen consults Natsuki about Kakashi’s early graduation and arranges for Kakashi to train alongside Natsuki and Minato.
• Kakuzu provides Natsuki with intelligence about Pakura’s attack, allowing Natsuki to intervene.
• Pakura confronts Natsuki emotionally, questioning why he would save a former enemy and accusing him of revealing the pipeline’s location.
• Natsuki confirms that he betrayed her but frames her rescue as the end of their enmity. His treatment ultimately turns Pakura into a powerful but controlled demon subordinate.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki realizes that Pakura has awakened a Blood Demon Art resembling Kokushibo’s Kyōkoku Kamusari. Her new ability allows her to generate regenerative blades and crescent-shaped slashes, complementing her long-range Scorch Release with powerful close-combat attacks.
• After finishing her treatment, Natsuki transports Pakura through a Spatial Gate to safety in the Rain Country. He reveals that turning her into a demon had been part of his plans from the beginning.
• Natsuki asks Pakura to become the next Kazekage and help him control Sunagakure. Having been betrayed and abandoned by Rasa, Li, and their supporters, Pakura agrees to serve him.
• Pakura returns to Sunagakure and pretends that her injuries were minor. The Third Kazekage realizes that Rasa and Li failed to eliminate her and reprimands them, though Pakura lacks enough evidence to expose their betrayal.
• Natsuki advises Pakura to maintain the status quo for now and prioritize her safety while he prepares a larger plan. She is told to contact him through the Land of Rain’s daimyo, demonstrating Natsuki’s influence over the region.
• The story then shifts to Konoha’s Ninja Academy. Five-year-old Kakashi passes his graduation exam, astonishing Asuma, Shizune, Rin, Obito, and Guy.
• Kakashi is assigned as a temporary member of Natsuki and Minato’s squad because there is no suitable team of children his age.
• At the Senju compound, Kakashi spars with Nawaki. Although Kakashi displays exceptional swordsmanship and speed, Nawaki easily defends against him without attacking.
• Natsuki decides that Kakashi will train in swordsmanship and the Konoha Six Powers before learning Lightning Release. Kakashi’s ability to use all five basic Chakra natures shocks Minato, Kushina, and Nawaki.

Character Developments

• Pakura: Transforms from a betrayed Sunagakure shinobi into a demon with greatly enhanced strength, regeneration, and a new Blood Demon Art. She emotionally detaches herself from Sunagakure and accepts Natsuki’s protection and authority, while still seeking revenge or political influence over those who betrayed her.
• Natsuki: Further establishes himself as a manipulative strategist with ambitions extending beyond Sunagakure and Konoha. His possession of Space-Time Ninjutsu and control over the Rain Country make him an increasingly dangerous political and military force.
• Rasa and Li: Their failed assassination attempt is exposed indirectly when Pakura returns alive. They lose credibility with the Third Kazekage and become more vulnerable to Pakura and Natsuki’s future plans.
• Kakashi: Demonstrates extraordinary talent by graduating at age five and showing advanced swordsmanship. He views Natsuki as a major personal goal and begins his path toward becoming a powerful ninja under Natsuki and Minato’s guidance.
• Nawaki: Acts as Kakashi’s first benchmark within the new team. His calm, superior defense establishes the gap between Kakashi’s raw talent and the experience of stronger older ninja.
• Minato, Kushina, and Guy: Minato continues to serve as a respected mentor, Kushina remains impressed by Natsuki’s abilities, and Guy immediately treats Kakashi as his new “lifelong rival.”

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and redirected loyalty: Pakura’s betrayal by Sunagakure causes her to abandon loyalty to her village and place herself under Natsuki’s control.
• Power through transformation: Pakura’s demonic conversion turns her near-death experience into a source of strength, highlighting how suffering can lead to supernatural evolution.
• Political manipulation: Natsuki uses Pakura’s survival, his influence over the Rain Country, and long-term planning to undermine Sunagakure from within.
• Talent versus experience: Kakashi’s remarkable natural ability is acknowledged, but his spar with Nawaki shows that genius alone cannot immediately overcome age, training, and experience.
• Ambition and control: Natsuki’s goals extend beyond personal strength; he seeks influence over entire villages and nations, gathering powerful individuals under his direction.

Important Character Interactions

• Natsuki and Pakura discuss her transformation, betrayal, and future role as Kazekage. Their relationship is built on a mixture of coercion, mutual usefulness, and Pakura’s reluctant dependence on him.
• Pakura confronts the Third Kazekage indirectly by returning alive and pretending to be unharmed, while the Kazekage privately reprimands Rasa and Li for their failure.
• Kakashi’s classmates react to his early graduation: Rin praises him, Obito feels jealous, Asuma and Shizune are astonished, and Guy enthusiastically declares him a rival.
• Minato introduces Kakashi to Natsuki’s squad, while Nawaki welcomes him and tests his abilities in combat.
• Natsuki, Minato, Kushina, and Nawaki discuss Kakashi’s talent, his five Chakra natures, and the training path Natsuki has designed for him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Hatake Kakashi joins Natsuki’s training arrangement after graduating early. He trains at the Senju grounds in the mornings and accompanies Nawaki or Minato on missions in the afternoons. Nawaki, now an unusually young squad leader, takes responsibility for teaching him.
• The situation involving Pakura, Rasa, and Li stabilizes after Natsuki transforms Pakura into a demon, eliminating the need to manipulate their conflict further.
• Yahiko reports that the plan to control Kusagakure is progressing. Mui is working to gain Grass Fruit’s support by using the Box of Ultimate Bliss as bait, then intends to win over Grass Flower while secretly opposing Grass Fruit’s plan to dominate the ninja world.
• Natsuki considers targeting Sky Village and Shinnō. Shinnō would help him fulfill the conditions for unlocking abilities tied to Medical Jonin and Taijutsu Jonin opponents. Sky Village’s Zero-Tails and Angkor Fortress could also become valuable assets.
• Natsuki asks the Anbu to investigate Sky Village. He later learns that the village was destroyed by Iwagakure and Sunagakure, but surviving villagers are secretly building Angkor Fortress. Shinnō is disguised as a traveling physician in Kumogakure and is stealing forbidden techniques.
• Natsuki identifies Shinnō’s Medical Forbidden Arts—Body Activation, Body Regeneration, and Body Metamorphosis—as potentially useful for Tsunade and Nonō. He decides not to interfere until Shinnō comes to Konoha, where he can be used more effectively.
• Konan unlocks Complete Demon Transformation, raising her to roughly average jonin strength. Later, Yahiko also unlocks Complete Demon Transformation, while Pakura gains Partial Demon Transformation and the Blood Demon Art Kyōkotsu.
• Natsuki and Kushina visit their private dimension, which Kushina names “Rose City.” Natsuki begins teaching her meteorology as preparation for Weather Arts. Kushina reveals that she can now freely borrow the Nine-Tails’ Chakra and has mastered Partial Tailed Beast Transformation.
• Natsuki continues planning the Twelve Kizuki. Eight members have already been selected, and he considers Guren and the Three Snake Princesses of Ryūchi Cave as possible future additions.
• By March, Kakashi asks Nawaki about taking the Chunin Exams so he can access higher-level missions. His ambition causes Natsuki to remember that, in the original timeline, Kakashi’s promotion was followed by Hatake Sakumo’s suicide.

Character Developments

• Kakashi is shown as highly ambitious and unusually mature for his age. Frustrated by the limitations of D-Rank missions, he seeks promotion to chunin as soon as possible.
• Nawaki has become an early squad leader and acts as Kakashi’s mentor, enthusiastically training him in swordsmanship and fieldwork.
• Konan and Yahiko grow significantly stronger through Complete Demon Transformation, bringing the Akatsuki-related faction closer to Natsuki’s intended power level.
• Pakura becomes more secure after strengthening her defenses against Rasa and Li. Natsuki encourages her to cultivate loyal subordinates within Sunagakure, though she doubts she can find people willing to betray their village.
• Kushina has grown into a confident young woman and is increasingly close to Natsuki. Her bond with the Nine-Tails has improved enough for her to use its Chakra at will.
• Natsuki continues expanding his influence through covert operations, demon transformations, the Anbu, and manipulation of village politics. He also becomes increasingly concerned with preventing dangerous events from the original timeline, particularly Sakumo’s suicide.

Significant Themes

• Power accumulation and strategic planning: Natsuki evaluates people, villages, forbidden techniques, and supernatural abilities according to how they can strengthen his faction.
• Manipulation versus loyalty: The Kusagakure plan and Pakura’s political position show Natsuki’s preference for indirect control, while also highlighting the difficulty of creating genuine loyalty.
• Changing fate and butterfly effects: The destruction of Sky Village differs from the original history, demonstrating how Natsuki’s actions have altered the timeline. However, some events—such as Sakumo’s possible suicide—may still be approaching.
• Weaponizing transformation: Demonification, Tailed Beast Chakra, and supernatural templates allow characters to surpass normal limits, blurring the line between human growth and engineered power.
• Relationships amid militarization: Natsuki’s interactions with Kushina and Pakura include affection and personal trust, contrasting with his otherwise calculated treatment of allies and enemies.

Important Character Interactions

• Kakashi and Nawaki train together, with Nawaki serving as Kakashi’s senior and mentor.
• Natsuki questions Pakura about Rasa and Li, advises her to recruit trustworthy allies, and quietly observes her reaction to him.
• Natsuki and Kushina share a warm, increasingly intimate exchange in Rose City. He compliments her appearance, discusses her relationship with the Nine-Tails, and begins preparing her to learn Weather Arts.
• Natsuki relies on Elephant and the Anbu for intelligence about Sky Village and Shinnō.
• The chapter ends with Natsuki realizing that Kakashi’s potential chunin promotion may coincide with the period in which Hatake Sakumo traditionally took his own life, raising the possibility that he will need to intervene.

Key plot points and events

• Natsuki reflects on Hatake Sakumo’s future suicide and suspects Danzō could weaponize public rumors to ruin Sakumo’s reputation. As head of the Anbu, Natsuki believes he can counter such a campaign, while Hiruzen may help address the village’s losses. He tells Kakashi to keep training until suitable teammates can be found for the Chunin Exams.
• Natsuki learns Shinnō has arrived in Konoha and orders the Anbu to watch him, intending to wait until Shinnō learns the Eight Gates.
• In Rain Country, Natsuki visits Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Ice Woman. Yahiko and Konan have mastered Complete Demon Transformation. Natsuki says Akatsuki can move to take control of Amegakure once all three leaders-in-training reach jonin strength, and advises them to begin preparations.
• Natsuki establishes Akatsuki’s intelligence division, CP9, under Ice Woman. Its initial sixteen members are orphanage children trained in Rokushiki, with Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato helping oversee the organization. Yahiko will serve as Akatsuki’s public leader, while Natsuki remains involved behind the scenes.
• Back in Konoha, Natsuki gives Yakushi Nonō a Magic Weather Baton as a belated birthday gift. Their conversation turns into a kiss, which leaves Nonō bashful but pleased.
• A week later, CP9 is ready to begin work. Natsuki cautions the team to gain experience gradually and has covert Anbu protection arranged for them.
• Natsuki recruits Guren into Akatsuki’s Blood Curse. Her abilities are Partial Demon Transformation and the shadow-based Blood Demon Art: Capture Cavity, which can defend, attack, and conceal weapons.

Character developments and interactions

• Natsuki takes a more active role in protecting Sakumo’s future, organizing Akatsuki, and safeguarding its new intelligence team. He also becomes romantically closer to Nonō.
• Kakashi continues developing through swordsmanship and the Konoha Six Powers, while Natsuki plans a less rushed path to the Chunin rank than in the original story.
• Yahiko is appointed Akatsuki’s public leader and eagerly embraces the group’s expansion. Konan and Nagato are relieved that Natsuki is not leaving; Konan’s attachment to him is especially evident. Nagato is reassured that his slower progress reflects the breadth of his training.
• Ice Woman becomes CP9’s leader, drawing on her Eyeball Clone ability. She accepts the responsibility and prepares to guide the new recruits.
• Nonō accepts Natsuki’s gift and responds warmly to their first kiss, though she is too shy to say she wants more.
• Guren willingly joins Akatsuki and receives powers suited to her role as a fighter.

Significant themes

• Leadership and responsibility: Natsuki delegates authority while continuing to protect those under his influence.
• Changing fate: He hopes to prevent Sakumo’s tragedy and chooses a slower, more supportive path for Kakashi.
• Loyalty and belonging: Yahiko, Konan, Nagato, and Guren’s commitment to Akatsuki reflects the community they have built.
• Growth through preparation: Akatsuki’s ambitions depend on training, intelligence gathering, and gaining experience rather than acting prematurely.
• Intimacy and affection: The gift and kiss mark a new, tender stage in Natsuki and Nonō’s relationship.

Key plot points and events

• Natsuki confirms that newly turned demon Guren’s Blood Demon Art concerns shadows, then leaves her to grow stronger.
• He unlocks Angra Mainyu’s All the World’s Evil, which can corrupt a target’s personality but is ineffective against people with exceptionally strong wills.
• In June, Natsuki unlocks Sage Mode, as Nagato reaches Jonin strength, and Minazuki’s Shikai and Bankai, triggered by Nagato and Yahiko meeting the relevant student conditions.
• Natsuki tests Minazuki: Shikai becomes a fast, stable flying manta ray that can heal by swallowing and regurgitating an injured creature; Bankai darkens the surroundings and gives Minazuki a blood-red, extending blade that corrodes what it cuts.
• Wanting to learn Sage Mode, Natsuki travels alone to Ryūchi Cave with Orochimaru, planning to turn its Three Snake Princesses into demons and avoiding the risk of bringing Nawaki.
• Orochimaru says Wood Release experiments have progressed to gorillas and that human trials may follow. Natsuki offers to find serious offenders from other villages as subjects.
• The Three Snake Princesses—Tagorihime, Ichikishimahime, and Tagitsuhime—set three dangerous tests, threatening to eat anyone who fails. Natsuki passes them easily: he dispels Tagorihime’s food illusion, fills Ichikishimahime’s chakra-draining chamber, and counters Tagitsuhime’s venom and illusion with purification and poison-neutralization abilities.

Character developments and interactions

• Natsuki continues acting as mentor to Guren, encouraging her to become stronger before taking on responsibilities.
• Nagato’s advancement to Jonin marks progress for the student group and unlocks several of Natsuki’s abilities.
• Natsuki shows growing confidence in his unusually broad skill set, calmly overcoming every trial.
• Orochimaru remains focused on Wood Release research but is portrayed as more restrained than his later self: he uses an animal for experiments and rejects using Konoha ninja or infants.
• Orochimaru accompanies Natsuki and explains the cave’s customs. Rock Snake greets both of them respectfully, contrasting with the arrogant Manda.
• The Snake Princesses each reveal distinct personalities: Tagorihime is formal, Ichikishimahime appears childlike but is deceptive, and Tagitsuhime is flirtatious and predatory. Their threats turn into surprise when Natsuki passes so quickly.

Significant themes

• Power and earned progress: Natsuki’s abilities unlock through his students’ growth, linking his advancement to their achievements.
• Preparation and adaptability: His existing techniques let him overcome trials designed to test will, chakra, and resistance to illusion and poison.
• Mentorship and protection: Natsuki encourages Guren and chooses not to bring Nawaki into a potentially dangerous confrontation.
• Moral restraint amid ambition: Orochimaru’s experiments hint at future ethical conflict, while Natsuki proposes using convicted outsiders rather than Konoha’s own people.

Chapter Summary: Three Snake Princesses Turn into Demons, the Twelve Kizuki Are Complete

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki quickly passes the combined trials of Ryūchi Cave’s Three Snake Princesses, Tagorihime, Tagitsuhime, and Ichikishimahime. His abilities—especially his resistance to genjutsu and snake venom—allow him to defeat their tests almost instantly.
• The Three Snake Princesses take Natsuki and Orochimaru to meet the White Snake Sage. She praises Natsuki as the fastest contractor in Ryūchi Cave’s thousand-year history and gives him permission to choose one princess to teach him Sage Mode.
• Natsuki chooses Ichikishimahime and begins learning Ryūchi Cave’s Sage Mode. He immediately senses natural energy, proving that unlocking the Jiraiya Template also granted him the talent to learn Sage Mode.
• Ichikishimahime explains the dangers of Ryūchi Cave’s training method, particularly the risk of Snake Transformation when too much natural energy is absorbed. Orochimaru postpones the training so he can first teach Natsuki what he learned from Jiraiya about avoiding failure.
• The next day, Natsuki makes a deal with Ichikishimahime: he will allow her to drink one-fifth of his blood if she does not interfere with his absorption of natural energy.
• Natsuki secretly uses his Blood Curse on her blood. Ichikishimahime is transformed into a demon and becomes subject to his absolute control. Her new abilities include partial and complete demon transformation and the potential to unlock Daki’s Blood Demon Art, “Sash.”
• Ichikishimahime initially panics and attempts to resist, but Natsuki forces her to submit by threatening her life. She quickly accepts him as her master and agrees to help him subjugate the other two Snake Princesses.
• Natsuki orders Ichikishimahime to lure Tagitsuhime into an ambush. When Tagitsuhime arrives to teach Natsuki, Ichikishimahime restrains her, allowing Natsuki to infect her with his blood and transform her into a demon as well.
• Tagitsuhime realizes she has been deceived and reacts with fury toward Ichikishimahime. The chapter ends with Tagitsuhime under Natsuki’s control, while Tagorihime remains the final target.

Character Developments

• Natsuki: Demonstrates exceptional talent by sensing natural energy almost immediately. He also becomes increasingly strategic and manipulative, using his blood and Blood Curse to turn powerful Ryūchi Cave beings into subordinate demons rather than merely learning from them.
• Orochimaru: Shows genuine concern for Natsuki’s safety. Although he never mastered Sage Mode himself, he shares his knowledge from Jiraiya to help Natsuki avoid Snake Transformation.
• Ichikishimahime: Changes from a predatory, playful snake princess into Natsuki’s controlled servant. Her fear of death forces her to abandon her independence, though she eagerly cooperates once she realizes Tagitsuhime will also be brought under Natsuki’s control.
• Tagitsuhime: Begins confident and flirtatious, expecting to control the situation, but is caught off guard by Ichikishimahime’s betrayal and Natsuki’s Blood Curse.
• White Snake Sage: Recognizes Natsuki’s unusual potential but remains unaware of his true intentions and the danger he poses to Ryūchi Cave.

Significant Themes

• Power through manipulation: Natsuki achieves dominance not through open combat, but by exploiting Ichikishimahime’s desire for his blood and using his Blood Curse strategically.
• Talent versus experience: Natsuki’s instant ability to sense natural energy contrasts with Orochimaru’s failure to do so, emphasizing Natsuki’s extraordinary advantages.
• Fear of death and loss of autonomy: Ichikishimahime’s thousand years of life do not protect her from fear when Natsuki gains control over her body and survival.
• Dangerous methods of cultivation: Ryūchi Cave’s Sage Mode is portrayed as harsher and more lethal than Mount Myoboku’s, with the threat of Snake Transformation always present.
• Betrayal and shifting loyalty: Ichikishimahime betrays her long-time companion Tagitsuhime, motivated by fear, self-preservation, and a desire not to remain the only one subordinate to Natsuki.

Character Interactions

• The Three Snake Princesses initially treat Natsuki as a potential meal, but the power dynamic reverses once he gains control of Ichikishimahime.
• Orochimaru acts as Natsuki’s mentor and protector, balancing the Snake Princesses’ dangerous teaching methods.
• Ichikishimahime and Natsuki develop a master-servant relationship based on Blood Curse-induced obedience rather than trust.
• Ichikishimahime’s betrayal of Tagitsuhime exploits the sisters’ long-standing closeness: Tagitsuhime trusts her so completely that she does not suspect the ambush until it is too late.
• Natsuki’s plan is revealed to extend beyond learning Sage Mode: he intends to transform all three Snake Princesses and complete his own version of the Twelve Kizuki.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki completes the conversion of Tagitsuhime and later Tagorihime into demons, forcing both to submit to him as their master. Ichikishimahime and Tagitsuhime quickly accept their new roles and help lure Tagorihime into the same fate.
• The three Snake Princesses are revealed to possess identical abilities: Partial and Complete Demon Transformation, along with the potential Blood Demon Art: Ribbons.
• With all three princesses transformed, Natsuki’s Twelve Kizuki are considered fully assembled. He also unlocks the Muzan Kibutsuji ability Demon Progenitor, which grants him a form of theoretical immortality through Complete Demon Transformation.
• Natsuki continues training in Ryūchi Cave and shocks the Snake Princesses by progressing to the stage of creating Sage Jutsu Chakra after only two days.
• The newly awakened Boa Hancock Template grants Natsuki Observation Haki immediately, while Love-Love Fruit and Conqueror’s Haki remain locked behind major objectives:
  • Establishing and publicizing the Kuja Pirates.
  • Freeing the slaves of the Land of Water.
• Natsuki realizes these conditions will likely force him into conflict with the Land of Water’s nobles, daimyo, and Kirigakure.
• He learns that the Snake Princesses can leave Ryūchi Cave and plans to summon them to the Ninja World once he masters Sage Mode.
• Back in Konoha, Natsuki promises Nawaki that he can visit Ryūchi Cave and attempt to learn Sage Mode.
• Nawaki passes the first two tests but fails the venom-resistance test and cannot sense natural energy. Natsuki cures him and lets him vent his disappointment by beating Manda and the other giant snakes.

Character Developments

• Natsuki becomes increasingly powerful and strategically ambitious. He gains near-immortality, perfects his control over the Snake Princesses, advances rapidly in Sage Mode, and begins planning operations involving the Land of Water.
• Tagitsuhime adopts a survival-oriented attitude, abandoning her pride and cooperating with Natsuki. She even helps capture Tagorihime.
• Ichikishimahime enthusiastically embraces her role as Natsuki’s subordinate and eagerly looks forward to visiting the Ninja World.
• Tagorihime reacts to being turned into a demon with emotional detachment, accepting her new status far more calmly than her sisters.
• Nawaki shows determination and courage by attempting the Sage Mode trials, but his failure confirms that he lacks the necessary talent. He remains good-natured and accepts the result without bitterness.

Significant Themes

• Power and submission: Natsuki’s transformation of the Snake Princesses demonstrates how overwhelming power can erase resistance and convert former enemies into loyal servants.
• Survival over pride: Tagitsuhime’s willingness to cooperate reflects the theme that survival can matter more than dignity or independence.
• Talent and limitations: Natsuki’s extraordinary progress contrasts with Nawaki’s inability to sense natural energy, emphasizing that effort alone cannot overcome a lack of aptitude.
• Ambition and political conflict: The Boa Hancock Template introduces goals that require Natsuki to challenge slavery and the ruling powers of the Land of Water.
• Adaptation and exploitation: Natsuki continually integrates abilities from different worlds and exploits the Snake Princesses’ knowledge and strength to expand his influence.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki casually threatens Tagitsuhime with death or submission, while Ichikishimahime teases her for becoming his obedient subordinate.
• Tagitsuhime and Ichikishimahime work together to restrain and trick Tagorihime into accepting demonization, revealing both their growing loyalty to Natsuki and their willingness to sacrifice their sister’s freedom.
• The Snake Princesses are amazed by Natsuki’s unprecedented Sage Mode progress and begin viewing his control over them as less unbearable because of his exceptional talent.
• Natsuki and Nawaki share a friendly, supportive relationship. Natsuki encourages Nawaki to try the Sage Mode trials, refuses to let the Snake Princesses rig the test, cures him after the venom test, and helps him recover emotionally by allowing him to fight the giant snakes.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Natsuki defeats Manda alongside Nawaki and the Three Snake Princesses, forcing Manda to agree to fight for them. Manda can now be summoned without a living sacrifice.
• Natsuki masters Ryūchi Cave’s Sage Mode. It heightens his senses but initially lasts only five minutes, similar to Mount Myōboku’s Sage Mode.
• Ichikishimahime demonstrates Ryūchi Cave’s equivalent of the Two Lives Technique by merging with Natsuki’s shoulder and continuously supplying senjutsu chakra, greatly extending his Sage Mode duration.
• After returning to Konoha, Natsuki is summoned to a high-level meeting with Hiruzen, Danzō, Koharu, Homura, Orochimaru, and Tsunade, confirming that he is now regarded as part of Konoha’s leadership.
• Hiruzen reveals that Hatake Sakumo failed a mission because he abandoned it to save his teammates. The failure caused major losses for Konoha and the Land of Fire, angering the daimyo.
• Danzō, Koharu, and Homura argue that Sakumo violated the principle that missions must come first. Tsunade defends the importance of saving comrades, while Orochimaru and Natsuki focus on repairing the damage rather than debating blame.
• Natsuki offers to use profits from his healing potions to compensate Konoha, but Hiruzen refuses, though the village’s potion revenue helps make the losses manageable.
• Hiruzen announces that he will meet the daimyo with Tsunade and Minato to negotiate Sakumo’s punishment.
• Natsuki visits Sakumo and reassures him that saving his teammates was not inherently wrong. He encourages Sakumo to stand by his convictions while recognizing that protecting individual comrades and protecting Konoha may sometimes conflict.
• Natsuki’s conversation helps Sakumo avoid the despair and self-destruction that led to his suicide in the original timeline. Natsuki also orders the Anbu to monitor Root and the shinobi involved in the failed mission, anticipating possible manipulation by Danzō.
• Three days later, Hiruzen announces that the daimyo has chosen not to pursue the matter. In exchange, Hiruzen has effectively agreed to step down.
• Hiruzen then begins the nomination process for the Fourth Hokage. All jōnin may nominate one candidate, signaling the start of Konoha’s transfer of power.

Character Developments

• Natsuki successfully learns Ryūchi Cave Sage Mode and gains even greater influence within Konoha. His presence at the leadership meeting confirms his rapid rise in status.
• Ichikishimahime becomes particularly eager to support Natsuki, volunteering to extend his Sage Mode and provoking playful rivalry with Tagitsuhime.
• Hiruzen demonstrates political skill and responsibility by using his resignation to protect Sakumo from severe punishment. His decision also prevents him from repeating some of the poor choices made in the original timeline.
• Hatake Sakumo remains committed to saving his comrades but begins to understand that his ideals require balance. Natsuki’s counsel gives him hope and prevents him from being psychologically broken.
• Kakashi is frightened by the consequences facing his father but is reassured by Natsuki.
• Danzō grows increasingly resentful of Natsuki’s privileged rise and recognizes that Natsuki, Orochimaru, Tsunade, Jiraiya, or Sakumo could all become Hokage—none of whom would likely tolerate Root’s abuses.
• Orochimaru remains outwardly calm and uninterested in openly pursuing the Hokage position, though Natsuki suspects he would resent losing to a younger candidate such as Minato.
• Tsunade openly supports her teacher and Sakumo, while maintaining her usual reluctance to become Hokage.

Significant Themes

• Mission duty versus personal bonds: The chapter questions the rigid shinobi belief that missions must always take priority over comrades’ lives.
• Moral complexity: Natsuki argues that whether Sakumo was “right” cannot be answered simply; the correct decision depends on the scale of the consequences.
• Conviction and responsibility: Sakumo is encouraged to retain his ideals without ignoring the wider consequences of his choices.
• Political power and succession: Hiruzen’s resignation and the Fourth Hokage nominations mark a major transition in Konoha’s leadership.
• Butterfly effect and alternate history: Natsuki’s actions preserve Sakumo’s life, alter Hiruzen’s political decisions, and push the Hokage succession forward earlier than expected.
• Institutional corruption: Danzō’s anxiety reflects the danger Root faces under a new Hokage who may investigate its illegal activities.

Character Interactions

• Natsuki and the Three Snake Princesses interact in a master-and-servant dynamic, with Tagitsuhime and Ichikishimahime competing humorously for his attention.
• Natsuki and Tsunade travel together to the Hokage Office and discuss the significance of the emergency meeting.
• The Konoha leadership debates Sakumo’s actions, revealing conflicting views on loyalty, duty, and village security.
• Natsuki supports Orochimaru’s practical approach and offers financial assistance, displaying his loyalty to Konoha.
• Natsuki speaks privately with Sakumo and challenges him to consider the consequences of his moral choices without abandoning his principles.
• Natsuki reassures Kakashi and earns his trust by promising that Sakumo will not face an excessively harsh fate.
• Hiruzen’s dealings with Tsunade, Minato, and the daimyo reshape both Sakumo’s future and the coming Hokage election.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Tsunade tells Natsuki that she will not nominate herself for the Fourth Hokage position. Although she has strong qualifications and popularity, she views the position as a burdensome responsibility rather than a privilege.
• Tsunade leaves to gamble, and Natsuki gives her a bankbook containing one million ryo. Their exchange highlights their close, teasing relationship.
• Anbu notifications are sent to all jōnin, beginning the nomination process for the next Hokage. Hatake Sakumo also withdraws from consideration.
• At the Senju compound, Nawaki confirms that he will nominate Orochimaru. Minato suggests that Orochimaru is the likely successor, while Kakashi admits that he is more interested in following his father’s example than becoming Hokage.
• Natsuki visits the Rain Country metropolis and informs Konan and the Akatsuki that they will officially move against Amegakure the following year.
• He transfers management of Dawn Company’s rainwater business to Konan and sends Kakuzu with thirty elite ninjas to establish a base in the Land of Water, away from Kirigakure. This is presented as a new business venture but is actually intended to train troops and prepare for the formation of the Kuja Pirates.
• The finalized jōnin nominations place Orochimaru first, Jiraiya second, and Natsuki third. Tsunade and Sakumo are excluded because they withdrew, while other candidates receive negligible support.
• Hiruzen formally designates Orochimaru and Jiraiya as the two Hokage candidates and orders a village-wide vote.
• Natsuki arranges for the Anbu and the Konoha Military Police Force to organize the voting. He specifically requests Uchiha Mikoto as the Uchiha representative.
• Fugaku agrees and subtly encourages Natsuki and Mikoto to spend more time together, apparently hoping to build a connection between Natsuki—Orochimaru’s student—and the Uchiha clan.
• Natsuki suggests that Mikoto could work in the Hokage Building, potentially improving relations between the Uchiha and the village leadership. Mikoto defers to Fugaku’s decision, and the chapter ends as they begin discussing the details of the villagers’ vote.

2. Character Developments

• Tsunade: Reaffirms her disinterest in political power and prefers personal freedom, gambling, and avoiding administrative burdens. She also shows affection toward Natsuki, recognizing how much he has grown.
• Natsuki: Gains increasing political influence as Orochimaru’s student and a leading jōnin nominee. He balances village politics with secret strategic plans involving Akatsuki, Dawn Company, and the future Kuja Pirates.
• Orochimaru: Emerges as the clear favorite for Fourth Hokage, receiving the most jōnin nominations.
• Jiraiya: Becomes the second official candidate despite being away from the village and not formally withdrawing.
• Konan: Is entrusted with managing Dawn Company, demonstrating Natsuki’s confidence in her leadership. She responds with determination and immediately takes responsibility.
• Kakuzu: Is reassigned from business administration to establish a military and commercial base in the Land of Water.
• Nawaki: Enthusiastically supports Orochimaru and nominates him without hesitation.
• Minato: Continues mentoring Kakashi and recognizes that not everyone is suited to become Hokage.
• Kakashi: Reveals that his goal is to become a ninja like his father rather than necessarily pursue the Hokage title.
• Fugaku: Shows political pragmatism and a desire to strengthen the Uchiha clan’s relationship with the likely future Hokage’s faction.
• Mikoto: Cooperates professionally with Natsuki and appears open to further involvement in village administration, though she remains guided by clan authority.

3. Significant Themes

• Power versus responsibility: Tsunade’s refusal contrasts political authority with the personal burden of leadership.
• Political maneuvering and alliances: The Hokage election becomes a way for clans and factions to secure influence and avoid future conflicts.
• Integration versus clan loyalty: Mikoto’s possible placement in the Hokage Building reflects the tension between serving one’s clan and serving Konoha as a whole.
• Mentorship and succession: Multiple characters train younger ninjas, while Orochimaru’s expected promotion changes Natsuki’s own status and prospects.
• Strategic preparation: Natsuki advances long-term plans through business expansion, troop training, Akatsuki operations, and preparation for conflict in Amegakure and the Land of Water.
• Different definitions of ambition: Characters such as Tsunade, Jiraiya, Minato, and Kakashi demonstrate that becoming Hokage is not everyone’s ultimate goal.

4. Character Interactions

• Tsunade and Natsuki exchange affectionate banter over her gambling and his financial support, reflecting their teacher-student closeness.
• Nawaki, Kushina, Minato, and Kakashi discuss the Hokage candidates and their personal ambitions.
• Natsuki gives Konan greater authority and encourages her leadership while assigning Kakuzu a new mission.
• Hiruzen relies on Natsuki to implement the election process, showing his trust in Natsuki’s administrative role.
• Natsuki and Fugaku negotiate the Uchiha clan’s participation in the vote, with Fugaku subtly attempting to connect Natsuki and Mikoto.
• Natsuki and Mikoto reminisce about their past missions and discuss the possibility of Mikoto working directly under the Hokage’s administration, hinting at a developing political and possibly personal relationship.