The only Way: Akane's Happiness and Aqua's Heart

As Aqua ventured into the shadowy recesses of the black market, he noticed a peculiar atmosphere. The patrons seemed driven by a mysterious purpose, each seeking something elusive. Determined to acquire what he truly desired, Aqua made his way to an old shop with a distinct aura.

Stranger: Wow, Aqua Uzumaki, can't believe you're here of all people.

Aqua, recognizing the voice, turned to find Crocodile, a former adversary defeated by the Light Emperor himself.

Aqua: Well, it looks like your downfall was quite beneficial, wouldn't you agree, Crocodile?

Crocodile, harboring resentment, retorted.

Crocodile: You damn brat, you'll pay for mocking me!

Without hesitation, Aqua unsheathed his katana and pressed it against Crocodile's neck.

Aqua: I'm not as forgiving as the Light Emperor. If he desired, he could have ended you. I'm here for the Hate Stone.

Crocodile, grinning sinisterly, retrieved a box and opened it, revealing the sought-after Hate Stone.

Crocodile: You brat definitely know what you're here for, right?

Aqua, with a stern gaze, affirmed.

Aqua: Yup, more than anyone else.

As Aqua reached for the Hate Stone, Crocodile abruptly closed the box, a sinister grin playing on his face. A tense silence hung in the air as both Aqua and Crocodile locked eyes.

Crocodile: Well, Aqua, you know there's always a price for expensive stuff, right?

Aqua sighed, pulled out some cash, and placed it on Crocodile's table.

Aqua: Here, 300 dollars. Take them and give me the stone.

Crocodile handed him the Hate Stone with a sly grin.

Crocodile: Be careful of what you're doing. Not even the Death Reaper and your teacher, The Devil of the Moon, would contemplate the path you're plotting.

Aqua stared directly at Crocodile and replied sternly.

Aqua: I know what I'm doing, and you don't need to remind me of anything.

Crocodile smirked.

Crocodile: Like father, like son. Very well then, have it your way.

Aqua carefully examined the Hate Stone, ensuring its authenticity, and once satisfied, he stepped out of the dimly lit shop. The stone rested in his palm, emanating a dark energy that seemed to match his determined expression. The bustling sounds of the black market surrounded him as he plotted his next move with the mysterious artifact in hand.

As Aqua continued his journey back home, the Hate Stone clasped tightly in his hand, conflicting emotions swirled within him. The burden of carrying Aqua's memories and the weight of his own decisions weighed heavily on his heart. As he walked, the throbbing pain in his chest served as a constant reminder of the connection between the original Aqua and Akane.

Aqua: (Internal thoughts) It's not easy to separate his feelings from mine. This heartache is a small price to pay for the plan ahead.

Despite the internal struggle, Aqua steeled his resolve, focusing on the path that lay ahead. The bustling city around him seemed oblivious to the internal turmoil he was grappling with. The Hate Stone, nestled in his palm, emitted an unsettling energy, almost echoing Aqua's determination.

Aqua: (Internal thoughts) This Hate Stone will become a necessary evil to protect her. I can't let my emotions jeopardize her safety.

As Aqua approached his home, a smirk played on his lips, a facade concealing the inner turmoil. The plan was set in motion, and with each step, he delved deeper into the role he had chosen to play.

Aqua: (Internal thoughts) This friend of mine changed the course of this story, but I'll mold it to protect those I care about.

With a determined stride, Aqua entered the house, ready to face the challenges that awaited him, both within himself and the complex world he found himself entangled in.

Aqua's arrival at home was met with the warmth of family, with Naruto, Sasuke, Ai, and Rose gathered for lunch, preparing for Sasuke and Rose's upcoming wedding. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

Kota, Aqua's younger brother, greeted him with a cheerful smile, inviting him to join the family lunch. As they sat together, enjoying their meal, Aqua couldn't shake off his internal conflict.

Kota: Aqua, come and join us.

Aqua managed a small smile and joined them at the table. The atmosphere was lively, but Aqua's mind was preoccupied. His eyes searched for Akane, a detail not lost on Ruby, who playfully teased him about missing his crush.

Ruby: Aww... My little brother is missing his crush. How lovely.

Laughter echoed, but Naruto's serious gaze brought the mood to a halt.

Naruto: So, what are you planning, son?

Aqua sighed and revealed the Hate Stone, causing a collective gasp from those present.

Shorta: This is a Hate Stone. Are you planning to use it against Akane?

Aqua nodded solemnly, prompting questions and concerns from Izumi, Shikimori, and his parents. Izumi, in particular, questioned Aqua's intentions.

Izumi: Sensei, please, don't you love her? Then why are you doing this?

Aqua's response was clear, expressing his desire for Akane's happiness.

Aqua: I want her to move forward in her life and find someone who can take good care of her.

Concerned glances exchanged between Sasuke, Rose, and the others demonstrated the weight of Aqua's decision.

Rose: Aqua, I appreciate that you're thinking about our daughter, but what about you?

Sasuke questioned Aqua's resolve, aware of his student's understanding of right and necessary actions.

Sasuke: Aqua, you always know what's right and what's necessary. Are you sure about this?

Aqua affirmed his commitment, emphasizing it was for Akane's sake. Naruto offered a cautionary remark, acknowledging Aqua's growth but urging him to be mindful of potential regrets.

Naruto: Be careful. After this, don't regret anything.

Aqua reassured his father, expressing his determination to use the Hate Stone before Sasuke's wedding.

Aqua: It's better this way.

In the moments before Sasuke's wedding, Naruto, dressed in his formal attire, noticed Ai in a white dress, tears streaming down her face. Concerned, he approached her calmly, acknowledging the emotional turmoil.

Naruto: We have to go now. It's about time.

Ai, her eyes filled with tears and frustration, responded with a mixture of anger and despair.

Ai: How can you be so calm when Aqua is doing this? He doesn't want him and Akane to end up like us.

She grabbed Naruto's collar, desperation evident in her voice as she sought answers. Naruto, with his signature cold demeanor, replied, his words cutting through the emotional tension.

Naruto: It's his choice. As for us, there's no turning back from what you did to me—humiliation, taunts. Do you truly believe I can return to my original self after what you did?

The coldness in Naruto's gaze pierced through Ai's heart, leaving her in tears once again.

Naruto: For now, do what you do best, acting, Ms. Hoshino. And we should head to the venue.