shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 20: Two and a Half Years of Accumulation

In his heart, Tsukiko felt immense gratitude toward Uzumaki Mito.

Without her support, as a descendant of both the Senju and Uchiha clans—especially after demonstrating his Wood Release—he would undoubtedly have drawn more attention, if not outright hostility.

But with Uzumaki Mito's protection, Konoha's higher-ups chose to observe and support Tsukiko rather than treat him as a threat.

After overcoming the initial trust crisis, Uchiha Tsukiko decided to focus entirely on improving his strength and accumulating knowledge. To make the most efficient use of his time, he cleverly employed the Wood Clone Technique.

Tsukiko assigned one wood clone to attend classes at the ninja academy, continuing to build his foundational understanding of the shinobi world. Another wood clone was stationed permanently in the Konoha Library, dedicating itself to reading and studying books on ninjutsu, history, and scientific advancements.

The vast knowledge within the Konoha Library provided Tsukiko with a deeper understanding of the ninja world's history and the secrets of various jutsu.

Meanwhile, Tsukiko's real body trained alongside Might Steel and Might Duy, focusing intensely on taijutsu. He not only strengthened his physical fitness but also continuously refined his understanding of the Eight Gates technique.

Over the course of two years, Tsukiko's physical abilities improved significantly. His mastery of the Eight Gates had also progressed, allowing him to open the first four gates: the Gate of Opening, the Gate of Healing, the Gate of Life, and the Gate of Pain.

One of Tsukiko's wood clones spent nearly every day in the Konoha Library.

The library, known as the village's treasure trove of knowledge, contained books on every conceivable topic—ninjutsu, history, geography, strategy, and more. Through extensive reading, Tsukiko not only broadened his intellectual horizons but also developed a keen interest in complex and advanced jutsu.

During his time in the library, Tsukiko gradually noticed a young man around twenty years old who often occupied a secluded corner of the room.

This youth had long, dark-gray hair and calm, intelligent eyes. He was always buried in scrolls and ancient texts, displaying an insatiable hunger for knowledge.

Recognizing the young Orochimaru, Tsukiko couldn't help but feel intrigued. Though Orochimaru's appearance differed somewhat from his future self, his distinctive aura was unmistakable—only someone like Orochimaru could exude such an air of peculiarity within the entire village.

Tsukiko decided to befriend Orochimaru. As one of the original series' most brilliant scientific minds, Orochimaru excelled not only in ninjutsu and forbidden techniques but also in body modification, genetic engineering, and technological innovation. Building a rapport with Orochimaru could greatly benefit Tsukiko's future plans.

One day, while both reached for the same book on human chakra meridian structures, their eyes met. Tsukiko noticed a flicker of surprise in the young man's gaze, quickly replaced by a polite smile.

"Apologies. I didn't expect anyone else to be interested in this book," Orochimaru spoke first, his voice calm with a faint rasp.

Tsukiko smiled and handed the book to him. "No, I should apologize for being late. Please, go ahead."

The youth accepted the book, scrutinized Tsukiko briefly, and introduced himself: "My name is Orochimaru. And you are?"

"Uchiha Tsukiko," Tsukiko replied, his interest piqued by hearing the familiar name.

As their conversation unfolded, Tsukiko discovered Orochimaru's extraordinary passion for ninjutsu, especially rare and advanced theories. In their discussions, Tsukiko leveraged his Ninjutsu Professor ability, his knowledge of future events, and his modern analytical mindset to offer sharp insights that left Orochimaru both surprised and impressed.

Over time, their interactions grew more frequent. The two often debated the principles and applications of ninjutsu, exchanging insights from their respective studies.

Thanks to his Ninjutsu Professor ability, Tsukiko's understanding of ninjutsu reached extraordinary depths. Orochimaru, with his prodigious talent and intellect, rapidly absorbed Tsukiko's ideas.

Orochimaru soon realized that Tsukiko wasn't just another studious ninja. His grasp of ninjutsu theory rivaled Orochimaru's own and, in some areas, even surpassed it.

"At first, I thought I was alone in my pursuit of knowledge," Orochimaru remarked after one particularly stimulating discussion. "But it seems, Tsukiko, you are the same."

Tsukiko chuckled. "Knowledge is the root of power. My thirst for it drives me to master more and more."

A rare flicker of admiration appeared in Orochimaru's eyes. "It's rare to meet someone like you, Tsukiko. You and I… we're both geniuses."

Tsukiko appreciated Orochimaru's acknowledgment. Though their ultimate goals might differ, their shared passion for knowledge forged a deep friendship within the library's quiet walls.

One evening, after an extended discussion, they sat surrounded by towering stacks of books, still engrossed in planning their future paths.

"Tsukiko, what do you aspire to achieve?" Orochimaru suddenly asked, his gaze filled with quiet anticipation.

Tsukiko pondered for a moment before answering candidly. "My dream is to become Hokage—to protect the peace and stability of Konoha."

Orochimaru smiled faintly, wisdom flickering in his eyes. "Becoming Hokage is a noble ambition. But my path lies elsewhere. I seek mastery over all ninjutsu and the secrets they conceal."

Tsukiko nodded in understanding. "Everyone has their own pursuits. No matter the path, I hope we both find true strength along the way."

Orochimaru's expression grew serious as he extended a hand. "Yes, Tsukiko. I look forward to exploring the limits of ninjutsu and uncovering the truths of this world alongside you."

Reflecting on his knowledge of the original plot and his modern perspective, Tsukiko's mind began formulating a bold plan.

With his Ninjutsu Professor ability, Tsukiko's capacity for understanding and innovating ninjutsu already exceeded conventional boundaries. He realized that combining scientific approaches with ninjutsu research could unlock unimaginable power in the future.

"Orochimaru's genius is unparalleled," Tsukiko mused inwardly. "If we collaborate and establish a laboratory, we could explore countless hidden forces and perhaps even unravel the secrets behind the Ōtsutsuki clan's formidable power."

Tsukiko envisioned a future lab—not just a place for ninjutsu research but a hub for wide-ranging experimentation, analysis, and innovation. There, they could investigate jutsu mechanisms, kekkei genkai, chakra nature transformations, and even delve into genetic experiments to uncover the source of the Ōtsutsuki clan's strength.

With determination gleaming in his eyes, Tsukiko silently resolved: "With Orochimaru's intellect and my unique abilities, nothing will remain beyond our grasp."