When it comes to seniority, neither the ninja clans of the shinobi world nor the Otsutsuki outside of it can afford to look too deeply into it. Otherwise, you'd end up realizing that besides calling your mother "mother," there are probably several other titles you should be using, and that would be enough to break anyone's brain.
Ninja clans tend to marry within their own bloodlines to maintain purity, and the Otsutsuki, who value lineage even more, are no different.
So, it's not surprising that Momoshiki and Ryūshiki's faction has some internal connections, making their seniority a confusing mess.
But that has nothing to do with Uchiha Madara. He only needs to know that the Ryūshiki inside him is considered a senior to Otsutsuki Momoshiki's younger sister. That's enough.
Of course, he wasn't going to go around showing off about it, acting like he was some great elder of the Sun God. At most, he'd brag about it a little in front of Hashirama.
As for Hyuga Hitoshi himself, he hadn't expected Nagato to capture the Sage of Six Paths and Gamamaru so quickly. He was even caught off guard by the final announcement, which led him to surrender completely—choosing to lie low and slowly infiltrate from within with utmost devotion.
The trio's decision-making process wasn't hard to figure out. They had already noticed that Indra, Asura, and the ninja leading the Myoboku forces had the scent of the Divine Tree's fruit. Their presence introduced uncertainty, but the speed and precision of the Sun God Kingdom's response shattered their initial plans. They had to choose between staying undercover or running away—because if they kept stalling, they'd be exposed sooner or later.
Returning to their homeworld in this state might get them some credit for bringing back intel, but punishment was unavoidable. In the end, they decided to infiltrate the Sun God Kingdom instead. Even if it meant fighting their own people later as part of the Sun God Kingdom's elite guards, it was still better than going back and losing face.
And Momoshiki's sister? She was their proof of loyalty!
This was a whole new level of "honey trap" tactics for the Otsutsuki clan. They believed that once Momoshiki's sister secured her position in Hyuga Hitoshi's harem, their own standing would rise, bringing them closer to the Sun God Kingdom's deepest secrets.
That was the basic plan. But the Sun God Kingdom's ruthless handling of Myoboku forced them to act sooner than expected.
Hyuga Hitoshi didn't comment much on the matter. He figured that if Momoshiki's sister did manage to stand out during the maid selection, she'd be too busy to help her brother rise in rank. After all, the Sun God himself, who had already crossed interplanetary boundaries, would definitely be very interested in the anatomy of an authentic alien beauty. Aiming for two children in three years was probably the bare minimum—so in the end, it was unclear who Momoshiki would really be loyal to.
Hyuga Hitoshi had always known about the trio's presence. Their participation in the ninja world tournament was part of his plan. They were a key element in his strategy to counter the Otsutsuki, so their fears about not being able to earn the Sun God Seal were unnecessary.
But for now, Clan Leader Hitoshi was busy observing the two future Admirals of the Sun God Kingdom, whom he had high hopes for. As he watched their performance, he also listened to Yugito's work report, leaving him no time to bother with the trio's schemes.
"The public trial of the Sage of Six Paths and Gamamaru is getting more attention than expected. Many people are asking about the follow-up. Sister Nan reported that the secretarial team wants to ask how many more figures like the Sage of Six Paths exist in the ninja world and whether additional precautions are needed."
Former head maid Hyuga Natsu was currently busy organizing the maid selection in the ninja world, so work reports had become Yugito and Samui's responsibility.
At this point, they had long gotten used to playing their roles beside Hyuga Hitoshi. After so many years, they had completely adapted to his presence, shaping themselves to fit the Sun God's needs.
"Handling potential threats like that is Nagato's job with the Akatsuki. Tell the secretarial team to stop worrying about things outside their scope."
Hyuga Hitoshi's tone was calm. It wasn't about separating military and political affairs—it was just common sense that a person's energy is limited. He had set up the secretarial team to handle government affairs so that nobody would go beyond their duties and mess up the Sun God Kingdom's progress.
Giving the right tasks to the right people was the correct way to do things. It was fine to ask questions and discuss, but overstepping boundaries wasn't allowed.
"But if Nagato has any thoughts on the matter, he can consult Konan. As long as it's not too outrageous, they can handle it however they want."
After thinking for a moment, he decided not to shut things down completely. He didn't want to dampen his subordinates' motivation. The ninja world had come a long way to reach this point, and he was curious to see how it would evolve from here.
"Also, how's Mabui's selection process going for students in the specialized schools for government training? When will they be ready to start working?"
As the Sun God Kingdom's territory expanded, so did the demand for talent. Even though the Hyuga clan had grown stronger under Hitoshi's leadership, not everyone was suited for government work. Most clan members were assigned to military roles, while civilian affairs required specialized professionals.
Not all ninjas were fighters, either. So, a few years ago, on a whim, Hyuga Hitoshi established a government training academy—giving non-combat ninjas a career path to work toward.
Yeah... The saying was true—the ultimate destination of the universe was bureaucracy.
"Mabui reported that the first group of graduates has already started hands-on training. Once they pass the final assessment, they'll be officially appointed."
This was good news. It meant there would be more and more skilled people in the future.
Hyuga Hitoshi nodded with satisfaction. "Tell Orochimaru that the research department needs to keep up with the necessary Ninja Tools. We must ensure that government officials don't fall under the wrong influence."
This was the ninja world—completely different from his past life.
In his previous life, there was no need to worry about someone being controlled and plunging the country into chaos. After all, past conflicts were driven by personal ambition. But in the ninja world, there was always the risk of Genjutsu manipulation—like what happened with the Fourth Mizukage, Yagura.
To prevent history from repeating itself, government officials stationed in different regions had to undergo regular check-ups. However, the real long-term solution lay in the research department's work on Genjutsu resistance. This was considered a top-secret project in the Sun God Kingdom.
Yugito received her orders and turned to Samui, who quickly jotted down the work schedule in her notebook.
"The preliminaries for the Ninja World Tournament are expected to end in three days. Before the main event begins, you'll need to give a speech. Do you prefer to appear via projection, or will you attend in person?"
After finishing the report on government personnel and the public trial of the Sage of Six Paths, Yugito moved on to the next agenda.
In reality, the Sun God only had a few tasks each day. Lately, however, there had been an unusual number of matters requiring his personal approval, so this counted as overtime. But when it came to the speech for the Ninja World Tournament, it was entirely up to his mood—after all, as a ninja, there were plenty of ways to take shortcuts.
"Three days? By then, Naruto and Sasuke should have finished their trials too. Let Fugaku know—I'll be there in person."
This time, Hyuga Hitoshi had no intention of slacking off. The tournament was just a front; the real goal was talent scouting, and that was something he had to handle personally.
He would use the three defectors as an example to show the ninja world what kind of enemies they would be facing. Once they saw the reality, they would willingly undergo the Infinite Tsukuyomi trials.
Then, using a lower-grade Chakra Fruit, he could create the first generation of elite warriors with unshakable resolve—his Divine Guard—to defend against the Otsutsuki invasion!
"Also, Head Maid Xia sent a message. It seems that this batch of maid selections includes Konoha's 'Long Black Hair' project, Kumogakure's 'Bold and Curvy' program, Iwagakure's 'Fair and Beautiful' initiative, Suna's 'Wind Beauty' project, and the top candidates from various smaller ninja villages.
She says the second round of selections has become quite difficult. There are too many outstanding candidates, and even with her sharp eye, she's finding it hard to eliminate them. She'd like to hear your thoughts on the matter."
Yugito coughed lightly. She had finally gotten to today's real topic.
At the same time, the little redhead who had been eavesdropping perked up in confusion.
Just moments ago, they had been discussing serious national affairs—assigning responsibilities, training talent.
Kushina had seen a different side of Hyuga Hitoshi, a man who was serious, focused, and, frankly, quite attractive in that mode.
But how long had it been?
This guy had completely revealed his true nature!
A maid selection contest? A 'Bold and Curvy' project? Was the Raikage out of his mind?
She glanced down at her own flat chest, then at Samui and Yugito from Kumogakure. Yugito was already in a league of her own when it came to curves, but what the hell was up with Samui? How did she even surpass Tsunade-sama in that department?
What was she eating? Was there some kind of secret formula? Could she get a copy?
"Cough."
Hyuga Hitoshi met Yugito's gaze, his expression turning serious.
He thought carefully about why this year's maid selection was so competitive.
Then, he looked at Sasuke, growing older inside the Limited Tsukuyomi, and suddenly, it all made sense.
Of course.
The new era had begun. A fresh generation of youngsters, untouched by war, had grown up. The girls surrounding the protagonist were starting to shine.
There was the reserved yet determined R7 Sakura, the gentle and delicate flower arranger, the cheongsam-wearing Tenten who fully embraced the past-life aesthetic, and even the young girl chosen by Amegakure—still alive and full of potential.
"This is truly a difficult decision."
At that moment, Hyuga Hitoshi felt younger than ever. He spread his hands, looking troubled.
"Personally, I think this whole maid selection thing… Ahem, we shouldn't discourage the younger generation. They've worked hard to represent their villages, after all."
It would be such a shame to eliminate them!
Rules were made to be bent.
And wasn't the whole point of this maid selection to make the great Sun God happy?
So, the real question was—what would make the Sun God happiest?
Samui and Yugito exchanged glances.
Yugito gave a firm nod.
"Understood. I'll inform Head Maid Xia that the Sun God fully trusts her judgment. Since she finds it difficult to make a choice, let's just have them all advance. If the numbers are too high, we can always create a second division."
Now you're speaking my language!
Hyuga Hitoshi smiled and pulled Yugito into his embrace.
Yes, life was wonderful when you had a caring maid.
He had no doubt that his maids would be reasonable enough to give these brave candidates a chance.
If choosing was too difficult, then why choose at all?
Wouldn't it be better if everyone advanced happily together?
Besides, this was just a maid selection, not the Ninja World Tournament, where strength determined everything.
Why take it so seriously?
A beautiful maid squad—practically a lineup of future divine consorts—was something you could never have too many of.
"So… does getting stronger also affect other body functions? Are you sure you can handle it?"
Kushina had just gained a whole new level of understanding about Hyuga Hitoshi's shamelessness.
Being as blunt as she was, she outright questioned whether his body could keep up.
That was a tricky question for Hyuga Hitoshi.
His body was indeed a bit unusual, defying the usual high-attack, low-defense logic of the ninja world. But more importantly, Kushina's tone told him something—Minato was almost done.
However, Kushina had learned not to argue seriously with Hyuga Hitoshi on sensitive topics.
Otherwise, just like last time, he might invite her to test his endurance firsthand.
She might be bold, but she still had some shame.
Besides, there were others around. Even if they were all just Hyuga Hitoshi's maids, she still wasn't ready to have this conversation in front of them.
After the report was finished, Hyuga Hitoshi and Kushina turned their attention back to the projection beneath the void. Just as Hyuga Hitoshi had said, the mental trial for the two was nearing its end, and their performance had left him very satisfied.
First was Naruto. Without the influence of Asura's soul, Naruto showed strong empathy. At the very least, Hyuga Hitoshi felt that he wasn't forcing a saintly attitude, nor was he pushing the idea that just because he had experienced something similar, others had to let go of their hatred and repay evil with kindness.
To be honest, the original Naruto was certainly a charismatic character. His straightforward nature and commitment to his ninja way were admirable, and his hardships earned him sympathy. But his habit of forgiving enemies on behalf of others was always frustrating to watch. Neji's fate, in particular, was beyond unfair. He died right in front of Naruto, killed by the Ten-Tails under Obito and Madara's control. Yet soon after, Naruto turned around and helped redeem Obito, even acknowledging his dream of becoming Hokage.
At that moment, Hinata's slap almost felt pointless.
But this time, after being taught by Kakashi and without Asura's influence, Naruto became truly compelling. He understood kindness, he valued life, and—most importantly—he knew that when faced with bullying, the right response was to fight back.
His first turning point came after growing up in the world of the Infinite Tsukuyomi. That was when he learned the truth about Sasuke's clan being wiped out. But this time, he didn't try to stop Sasuke from leaving. In fact, he told him directly that if he ever needed help, he could always reach out.
What does it mean to be a comrade?
It means standing by someone's side, unwavering, even when they carry hatred and stand against the world.
What does it mean to be a friend?
It means not forcing them to stay when they want to cut ties, but instead quietly uncovering the truth behind the scenes and exposing the ugly crimes behind it all. That is true friendship.
Never judge a person by their words—watch what they do instead.
Inside the Infinite Tsukuyomi, Naruto's actions defined real friendship. He didn't try to stop Sasuke's revenge because he understood what it meant to carry hatred. He knew how painful it was to have once experienced love, only to lose it.
Sasuke was searching for answers. But was someone who blocked his path and preached to him about revenge truly a friend?
This time, Naruto chose to support him. And in the process, he effortlessly gained control over Kurama, using his power to investigate the truth. When Sasuke left the village in pursuit of strength, Naruto followed a trail of clues and uncovered the long-standing conflict between the village and the Uchiha clan. He even exposed the deal Danzo had forced on Uchiha Itachi, gathering evidence and revealing everything to the public. The revelation shook Konoha to its core.
But what was even more shocking was Naruto's next decision.
After exposing Konoha's corruption, he—the village's Nine-Tails Jinchuriki—chose to leave as well, following in Sasuke's footsteps. The two of them became rogue ninjas together.
Yes.
Konoha was just a hopeless village.
If they saw him as nothing but a monster, then why should he care what they thought? The village had never mattered to him.
What mattered was something else.
The Akatsuki.
Uchiha Obito.
That's right.
This time, Naruto had a simple and straightforward reason for not stopping Sasuke's revenge—because he, Uzumaki Naruto, was also a person carrying hatred. In fact, he had fallen into the path of revenge even earlier than Sasuke.
Why was the mastermind behind the Nine-Tails attack still alive and well?
Why did the Uchiha clan have to take the blame for his crimes?
Why was he, Naruto, forced to bear the name of a demon fox and suffer for it?
Why?
Naruto's thoughts after defecting were simple—he and Sasuke had the same targets for revenge. One was Obito, who had fully supported Uchiha Itachi on the night of the massacre. The other was the top brass of Konoha.
This time, he chose to stand by Sasuke's side. Together, they walked the path of vengeance.
With Naruto's help, Sasuke successfully killed Orochimaru. The two of them joined the Akatsuki ahead of schedule. To Nagato, having the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki willingly deliver himself was an incredible opportunity. But just as he was about to make his move against Naruto, Naruto revealed a shocking secret about him.
Did Nagato really think Naruto had just walked into a trap?
No.
This mission had two goals.
First,
Naruto knew that his former senior, the former leader of the Akatsuki—Nagato—was someone who genuinely believed in bringing peace to the ninja world. He also knew how deep Nagato's obsession with peace ran. But more importantly, he knew that Obito had deceived Nagato by pretending to be Uchiha Madara.
Nagato had been a pawn from the very beginning. This wasn't the fate he deserved.
That's why Naruto wanted to break Obito's control over the Akatsuki. And this was only the first step of his counterattack. He needed to expose Obito's true identity and reveal his ultimate goal of collecting the tailed beasts.
And that led to their second goal in joining the Akatsuki.
Finding Uchiha Itachi.
If Nagato's Rinnegan couldn't decipher the Uchiha clan's stone tablet, then Naruto would make sure he learned about the Infinite Tsukuyomi. He would ensure that Nagato understood the true nature of the Rinnegan—that it was the result of Senju and Uchiha bloodlines merging, and had nothing to do with the Uzumaki clan.
Finding Itachi was the key to guaranteeing that the stone tablet's secrets would be revealed. After all, Naruto wasn't certain whether Nagato's Rinnegan could actually decipher it.
Of course.
In this battle, he had to face not only Obito but also the "dutiful son" of the ninja world—
Otsutsuki Black Zetsu!