9

The room, still buzzing with plans and tense conversations, suddenly grows cold.

A dark shadow forms in the corner, coalescing into a familiar shape—Black Zetsu.

Everyone freezes, recognizing the malicious presence that once sought to bring about Kaguya's resurrection.

Without a word, Black Zetsu raises his arm. A Brown Zetsu—one of the newly created versions of the White Zetsu army—emerges from the shadows, stepping forward. Its posture is stiff, but there's an unnatural intelligence behind its gaze.

"This is how we will communicate from now on," the Brown Zetsu says in a neutral voice, but there's a hint of authority in its tone, carrying the weight of Kaguya's will. "I am here to relay messages, both urgent and necessary."

Naruto clenches his fists, his eyes narrowed. "What's this about?"

The Brown Zetsu continues, unfazed by Naruto's glare. "Kaguya will not interfere unless necessary. However, if she does not risk her life in battle, she may offer her assistance. The matter at hand is much larger than what you have faced before."

The room falls silent as the weight of the words sinks in.

The Brown Zetsu shifts, its voice growing more solemn. "There is an Ōtsutsuki still alive on this planet. He has evaded death, hiding in the shadows. Kaguya sensed his presence while she was sealed. She had to sneak attack him, and even then, he survived. His survival will only make the conflict harder to win."

"An Ōtsutsuki?" Minato murmurs. "Still alive?"

Kakashi steps forward, his brow furrowed. "How did Kaguya deal with him?"

The Brown Zetsu's expression remains neutral. "She fought him in the shadows, but his power far exceeds what you would expect. He has stayed hidden, but his presence is a ticking time bomb."

Tsunade crosses her arms. "So, what now? Does Kaguya plan to help us?"

The Brown Zetsu hesitates. "Kaguya may lend her hand, if it suits her. But she will not risk herself for your world unless it aligns with her goals."

Sasuke's eyes narrow, his tone cautious. "What exactly are her goals?"

Black Zetsu's voice suddenly cuts through the air, low and unwavering. "Her goal is simply to live, Sasuke. To live without interference. That's why she may help you, but don't expect her to take on any unnecessary risks."

Naruto steps forward, a frown crossing his face. "So, it's all up to us? We fight, and if Kaguya feels like it, she might help?"

The Brown Zetsu steps back, and Black Zetsu watches them carefully. "Exactly. But remember this—there is a sacrifice to be made. The balance of the world must be tipped, and it will require someone to give their life. You will know who when the time comes."

Sasuke looks between Black Zetsu and the Brown Zetsu, uncertainty creeping into his mind. "A sacrifice… to stop the Ōtsutsuki?"

Black Zetsu's gaze hardens. "The Eater will come for you. Be ready."

And then, the Brown Zetsu steps back, signaling the end of the conversation. Black Zetsu's presence vanishes as quickly as it appeared, leaving the room tense and filled with new questions.

Tsunade exhales, rubbing her temples. "This is getting more complicated by the second."

Hashirama looks thoughtful. "A sacrifice, an Ōtsutsuki still alive… It's not something we can take lightly."

Minato nods. "We need to prepare for everything, then. Whatever Kaguya's plans are, we'll have to keep moving forward."

Naruto slams his fist into his palm. "A sacrifice, huh? I won't let anyone die if I can help it. We'll figure this out together!"

Sasuke's voice is low, but serious. "The time for hesitation is over. If we're going to win, we have to act. No matter what the cost."

Kakashi looks around the room, seeing the weight of the situation settle on everyone's shoulders. "We've dealt with a lot, but this? This will test us all."

And as the silence hangs in the air, the future of the ninja world feels uncertain. But one thing is clear: whatever happens next, they'll face it together.