At his master's words, much of the guilt in Sasuke's eyes faded. After glancing at Uchiha Itachi, whose breathing was faint, he said quietly:
"Thank you, Master."
Shin Uchiha needed no thanks from Sasuke, of course. He waved a hand casually and said:
"It's all part of my duty as your master."
After saying that, Shin Uchiha surveyed the devastated former grounds of the Uchiha Clan. The corner of his mouth twitched slightly as he muttered:
"You two little brats. This was our Uchiha Clan's Uchiha District, and you went and wrecked it. One day, I'll make you work to pay it all back."
Then Shin Uchiha nodded to Sasuke beside him and said:
"All right, let's head back. Now that our business here is finished, it's time for you to learn Sage Mode."
Since Sasuke Uchiha had become his disciple, he would no longer have any dealings with Orochimaru, nor would he obtain a contract with Ryūchi Cave.
Yet Sasuke would have to fight Madara Uchiha and Kaguya Otsutsuki in the near future.
When that time came, ordinary elemental ninjutsu would be unable to harm them. Only Sage Mode, which used natural energy, would retain some effectiveness in battle.
That was why Sasuke had to learn Sage Mode.
Besides, Sasuke had already trained his Lightning Release Armor to the fourth stage. It would be something of a waste if he did not learn the Sage Mode of Shikkotsu Forest.
Sasuke already knew what his master had planned for him, so he nodded without hesitation at his words.
Seeing this, Shin Uchiha did not hesitate either. He surveyed the surroundings and nodded toward a certain spot, then placed his hands on Sasuke's shoulder and Itachi's body and teleported away with them.
Watching from her hiding place at that spot, Tsunade