Ch. 1Sasuke, So Handsome!
Chapter Summary: “Sasuke, So Handsome!”
Key Plot Points and Events
- After Hagoromo explains how to undo the Infinite Tsukuyomi, Sasuke reveals his plan: he intends to execute the current Five Kage, control the Tailed Beasts, and eventually kill them as well.
- When the Nine-Tails attacks him, Sasuke uses his Six-Tomoe Rinnegan to freeze and control it. The other Tailed Beasts are similarly subdued.
- Hagoromo, recognizing that his role is over, entrusts the future to Naruto before fading away.
- Sasuke uses Chibaku Tensei to imprison the Nine Tailed Beasts in nine massive floating spheres, separating the group and creating the setting for his confrontation with Naruto.
- Sasuke declares that his actions constitute a “revolution.” He blames the Five Kage for creating the current ninja world and announces his intention to replace them with a new system.
- He also declares that Naruto must die and invites him to follow him to the place where they will settle their final battle.
- The chapter ends as Sakura prepares to confront Sasuke emotionally, while Kakashi notices Zeyu struggling not to laugh at the familiar scene.
Character Developments
- Sasuke fully embraces his post-war revolutionary ideology. He is portrayed as powerful, confident, ruthless, and determined to impose peace through centralized control and execution.
- Naruto rejects the idea that he and Sasuke are destined to repeat the conflict between Indra and Asura. He prepares to oppose Sasuke while believing their relationship can end differently.
- Hagoromo accepts that his time in the world is ending and passes responsibility to Naruto.
- Zeyu is revealed as a ninety-ninth-life transmigrant with extensive knowledge of the Naruto storyline. Despite surviving many lives, he has little natural talent and relies on information, caution, and remaining close to the main cast.
- Zeyu’s admiration for Sasuke’s strength and appearance contrasts with his own insecurity and frustration at having received no useful powers from the supposed “system.”
- Sakura remains devoted to Sasuke and attempts to persuade him, while Kakashi continues trying to protect and guide her.
Significant Themes
- Revolution versus inherited authority: Sasuke believes the Five Kage system is responsible for the world’s suffering and seeks to replace it with his own order.
- Control versus cooperation: Sasuke’s domination of the Tailed Beasts reflects his belief that peace can only be achieved through absolute power.
- Breaking the cycle of hatred: Naruto insists that he and Sasuke do not have to repeat the historical conflict represented by Indra and Asura.
- Fate and repetition: The story parallels the familiar canon confrontation, while Zeyu’s many reincarnations add another layer of repeated lives and predetermined events.
- Comedy amid high stakes: Zeyu’s sarcastic inner commentary and excitement over witnessing iconic scenes undercut the seriousness of the war.
- Survival and identity: Zeyu’s repeated random reincarnations have made him cautious, opportunistic, and deeply resentful of his lack of control over his life.
Character Interactions
- Sasuke and the Tailed Beasts: Sasuke effortlessly suppresses and controls them, demonstrating the overwhelming power of his Rinnegan.
- Hagoromo and Naruto: Hagoromo entrusts Naruto with stopping Sasuke before disappearing.
- Naruto and Sasuke: Naruto questions Sasuke’s motives, but Sasuke explains his revolutionary plan and declares Naruto an enemy who must die.
- Sakura and Sasuke: Sakura is about to make her emotional appeal to Sasuke, continuing her unwavering attachment to him.
- Kakashi and Zeyu: Kakashi notices Zeyu’s poorly concealed amusement during the tense confrontation and gives him a disapproving, deadpan look, creating the chapter’s closing comedic beat.