Chapter 129: Who Is Truly Arrogant?

Chapter 129: Who Is Truly Arrogant?

Chapter 129: Who Is Truly Arrogant?

To be fair, at this moment, Konoha has not officially labeled Sasuke as a rogue ninja like they typically would for deserters.

The influence of Naruto and others is minimal in this decision; it is more about political considerations.

As the sole surviving member of the Uchiha clan from Konoha, Sasuke's status is too unique.

Even though the outside world mocks that one of Konoha's founders, the last Uchiha, has defected, as long as Konoha's officials do not confirm this, there remains room for maneuver and explanation.

The actual designation of Sasuke as a rogue ninja happened after Danzo took power.

As of now, Sasuke is not considered a rogue ninja.

This means that if Kakashi and his team bring him back to the village, under the leadership of Tsunade as the Hokage and with Danzo not in charge, there is a significant chance for him to return to his former status.

However, as the person involved, Sasuke does not appreciate this.

"Boring," he replied indifferently.

Return to Konoha? What is there worth remembering for him there?

Is it the place that allows him to become stronger, gaining the power to defeat Itachi Uchiha?

He had tried.

But even Kakashi, who taught him ninjutsu, was utterly powerless against Itachi. What use would it be to train under him?

Besides Kakashi, who else in Konoha could teach him?

As for bonds and relationships.

Indeed, Naruto holds an important place in his heart.

But he would not live for Naruto's sake.

Moreover, he now has more bonds.

Hagoromo Anki, Uchiha Izumi, and Uchiha Kei, blood relatives.

And the Hagoromo clan, who never looked at the Uchiha with prejudice like the villagers of Konoha.

In Lockfront Village, he felt a warmth he had long missed. Under Hagoromo Gengetsu's guidance, he could continually improve without worrying about any conspiracies or dangers.

So why should he return to Konoha?

Just because he was once a part of Konoha?

Just because of the so-called Will of Fire?

Seeing Kakashi and his team looking as if they were doing him a favor, Sasuke smirked disdainfully.

They all thought he was arrogant.

But they were the truly arrogant ones.

"It seems we can't reach an agreement."

Kiba, whose technique had been effortlessly broken, looked up at Sasuke in frustration.

But Sasuke did not even glance at him.

Just steadying himself, Sasuke saw Neji and Hinata in white, their Byakugan activated, attacking with rhythmic strikes.

"Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms!"

Sasuke's Sharingan spun rapidly.

Sharingan versus Byakugan!

The Byakugan's 360-degree vision meant they didn't have to worry about making eye contact with the Sharingan like other ninjas.

With both sides having great insight, the ensuing taijutsu battle was exceptionally fierce.

Neji and Hinata's Gentle Fist, Sasuke's Uchiha-style taijutsu—within moments, they had exchanged countless probing moves, followed by collisions at angles ordinary people couldn't perceive.

However, these "ordinary people" didn't include Guy.

Another passionate cry of youth echoed on the battlefield.

Just as Sasuke deflected Neji and Hinata's attacks and chose not to engage further, Guy's attack pushed him back, avoiding their strikes.

Unexpectedly, Kakashi, who had been out of sight, suddenly appeared behind Sasuke, gripping his neck tightly with one hand and holding a kunai to his temple with the other, calmly declaring:

"It's over, Sasuke."

"Is it?"

Sasuke's eyes narrowed.

Chidori Current!

A surge of lightning burst from his body, enveloping him.

Kakashi, taking the brunt of the attack, fell apart into earth and crumbled.

"A Mud Clone. Typical Kakashi."

Having spent time with Kakashi, Sasuke was unsurprised by his fondness for using clones in battle.

He pressed down, and the lightning transformed into a web, forcing back the approaching Konoha ninjas. Scanning his opponents, Sasuke assessed their strength.

"It's still not enough..."

Realizing all he could do was stall for time, Sasuke pulled back his right hand and drew his long sword with a metallic clang.

"No matter what, I must complete the task Hagoromo-sama assigned."

Sasuke's Sharingan spun once more as he prepared to take the initiative, aiming to control the battle's rhythm.

Suddenly, a hand rested on his shoulder.

"Good job."

As these words were spoken, Sasuke tensed, then quickly relaxed.

Hagoromo Gengetsu had made his entrance.