Rippling Tides ~ New Moon

Rippling Tides -New Moon

~ Both Prologue and Chapter One ~

~ Kayuya's Palace ~

' It is said that there are times when to move forward, one must first look backward.'

In most recent years, this is a saying with which Kaguya, the mother of Chakra, has become most familiar.
Not the most agreeable lesson, but one she was forced to deal with nonetheless.

"It can't be helped," Kaguya murmured. Her voice, steady and unearthly, held a regretful sort of resignation.

The Chakra Goddess remembers her victory was blissful.

Raising her arms to place her surviving enemies into eternal sleep had brought Kaguya even more gratification.

Her once stolen power, the Chakra long divided amongst the undeserving masses through the actions of her ungrateful spawn and deceitful mortal husband.

At long last, the Chakra's rightful master had reclaimed her glory.

Reveling in the memory of her hard-won victory, Kaguya laughs. Her bell-like voice was benevolent in sound.

"-A glorious confrontation, generations in the making." In Kaguya's silvery color eyes, it seemed as though fate itself had danced to her superior will.

"My traitorous children, it's regrettable you resisted. How I must have failed you as a mother...

"That is my shame. Of course, your inexcusable betrayal was still your own...

“I was never completely lost, yet not even "reincarnation" was enough for you to learn like I have. To choose correctly. My love as your mother wasn’t enough for either of you."

Placing the cold thoughts of her lost family aside, Kaguya believed herself content. For a time she was.

The peace and solitude of her dimensional palace were nice, it's just too bad the serenity couldn't last. Millennia after biting millenium.

A silent, ever-growing tedium, came and went.

Contrary to her original expectations, perpetual solitude wasn't the answer. It wasn't loneliness per se, that was the problem.

Not with her loyal children Black and White Zetsu at her side, the pressing matter was more the unbearable lack of stimuli. Its a crushing, tedious aggravation that Kaguya couldn't deny.

Left alone with time for nothing but thinking, the Moon Goddess understood, perhaps too late that a few better options might have been in order.

"An equal. Perhaps not in power, but understanding."

Though long aware of the concept, these "Other worlds" are those alternative existences loosely intersecting with her own. For Millenia they were nothing more than a passing curiosity.

A seemingly irrelevant novelty she'd long ignored.
Only now that she's trapped in this endless monotony did it finally occur to Kaguya to take a look.

"If nothing else my counterparts could prove to be true and worthy companions."

Growing more excited at the idea, Kaguya built up the potential in her mind. "The possibilities and permutations are surely infinite, my victory in each land must vary as well. I can't wait to see the differences in how each Hagoromo met his end."

Unfortunately for the moon goddess, her investigatory spirit was met with only horror.

All too quickly she discovers herself an outlier, the singular face of victory in comparison to potentially millions of failed counterparts.
The further Kaguya explored the more tiresome and humiliating it became.

Realizing her other selves had faced decisive, inarguable defeat thousands of times, across many worlds and that she stood as one singular victory... She mourned. "I am… Goddess of Nothing".

"Merely this... wasteland." A revelation that brought Kaguya the coldest, course, and cruelest sense of emptiness in her soul.

Repulsed by what she realized, the Mother of Chakra's world shifted and she decided it best to analyze the many failures of her counterparts. "There must be some explanation!"

“No! How could another-! Deep breaths..."

"Alright, the next one, where exactly did things go wrong here?”

In doing so she began to notice a recurring theme.

Beyond her errors in personal judgment, there is a certain recurring event that consistently tied the many loose ends of Kaguya's original plan into one binding bow of her many counterparts fall.

“The founding of Konoha again? Could such a simple branch truly be the cause? I don't recall it being such a turning point in MY world, but perhaps...?”

The answer it so happens, is both Yes, and no. While in many worlds the elemental villages certainly play an instrumental role, the truth of Kaguya's path to a certain downfall is more complicated.

As the vexed Kaguya would piece together, though it is true that to an extent the shinobi-controlled elemental villages often marked the beginning of her alternative selves end, certainly for her only loyal children, Black and White Zetsu... It wasn't the end all be all.

Naturally, that's only part of it. "But of course, there’s always more to history isn’t there?

It can never be so straightforward.”

“More specifically the founders and their consistently inconsistent conduct and overwhelming failures of leadership.

"That is the true breaking point. It inspired people who ARE capable and drove them against me... The one to whom they owe the most.

All their precious power, it comes directly from me. I am the source of all Chakra yet they made me an enemy.”

With this spark of realization, Kaguya applied herself whole-hearttedly.

Examining history all the closer, ever so gradually she pieced together exactly where her counterparts met their specific turning point, and ever so gradually, a new and better plan began to emerge.

Rummaging (not so carefully) about these other worlds and learning the habits and desires of shall we say 'key players' Kaguya’s new plan could begin in earnest.

“We can absolutely live together in harmony... Hashirama Senju is undoubtedly a fool... a simple-minded hypocrite.

"But even I can agree with Ashura's incarnation (the remnants of his chakra attached to the fool) in that regard."

"Still, what my foolish son overlooked is that "Peace" and "Complacency" are NEVER "one and the same".

"The subtle nuance between the two is paramount, yet so easily dismissed."

"Yes... I can and WILL magnanimously share my power, but it will be done solely under MY specific terms.”

Her choice solidified, the only victorious Kaguya immediately set about the creation of her "New Moon".

Carefully highjacking many a unique world-specific Black and White Zetsu (Each counterpart eventually merged within her own) these variant "instruments" of Kaguya’s will were brought to her side- and with them came certain ‘prizes’.

From one world- The genius Orocihimaru in his mental and emotional prime.

Another, albeit unwilling figure was Mito Uzumaki- More accurately her still-warm corpse.

Specifically that of a rather young Mito Uzumaki, systemically murdered across many worlds by Kaguya’s loyal sons, White and Black Zetsu respectively.

All to reliably prevent the Uzumaki princess's favored political status from bestowing any further legitimacy to Hashirama’s claim.

With this one stroke, the Senju's political power in these "failed worlds" was more than halved. Not that their final fate is of any interest to Kaguya.

Mito's Father; Kyou Uzumaki was another critical trophy. Carefully making sure to "play nice" so as to take him alive, for a time Kaguya's "husband" was as good as any loyal collaborator.

Alas, in time his use expired all the same. For after a point, the man marked himself for an inevitable death.

Kaguya would like to claim it's because Kyou's family seals are undeniably the root cause of Kaguya's splintered Jubi being weaponized into tools of war.

Their almighty power enslaved in service to the undeserving political powers.

Yet truth be told, that is little more than a belated justification for what came "after"

A way to convince herself that it "meant nothing."

Rather, the goddess Kaguya remembers her... unpleasant parting with Kyou Uzumaki all too well.

That horrible day, the Uzumaki lord was most distressed to discover that his wife of two years... his "Beloved Sora" was never anything more than a puppet.

A unique vessel that Kaguya had been inhabiting to acquire Kyou's willing cooperation.

It's not that she didn't like the man, and she appreciated the depths of his love... The problem was that quite frankly, once "the twins" were delivered, Kyou held no further value.

' It's almost regrettable. I despise admitting it, but I truly miss him.'

' Yet he saw "too much". And in terms of the greater "plan," I feared there was no viable way to incorporate him. Not in any meaningful way...'

"Delivering the boys was so very painful, I lost my grip on the template."

' Still, the look in his violet eyes... It hurt more than I anticipated.' Kaguya is almost nostalgic, her memory of that... ugly evening remains as fresh as the day it occurred.

' Kyou... you called me a monster, perhaps I am. From your perspective, there is little "sensibility" in all I'd done. All I did after and will do further. '

"You have no idea just most merciful I'm being here Kyou and Do spare me your self-righteous indignation. I am merely collecting the toll."

"I feel how this truth hurts you, but if I left things be, your family would begin a short sighted arms race that kills untold thousands of innocents.

"Please be grateful, for your death... our newborn children, Shiroyuki and Reiji... it all has meaning here."

Ignoring the corner of her mind, screaming that there was another way, to give him time to at least TRY processing things...

Kaguya knows she simply killed him as painlessly as possible and forlornly moved on to the next phase.

' Why do the realizations always come too late? The truth was more than valid. A good person like him-'

"No! No time for regrets. This was never going to be easy. My allies would always be few.

"I'm here now and I HAVE to trust it will all be worth it... Someday."

' That was when I refocused my attention on the genetics of a youthful Kushina Uzumaki- "The Maiden".

Although Kushina's blood was already incorporated within the template, Kaguya's scientist had needed a fresh source.

" I sent my faithful Zetsu and they carefully snatched one up.

This one, swiped away from her Kumo attackers, Kaguya's loyal children arrived a mere fraction of a second before Kushina's relentless stalker Minato could FINALLY win over the volatile redhead's affections by playing "hero".

Kaguya will never understand why certain worlds are so eager to view their mutually obsessive relationship through a romantic lens. Still she also has enough self-awareness to see that maybe she isn't the best judge...

'Funny enough I truly intended to spare her, alas Kushina preferred to go down snarling like some filthy, rabid animal.

' The biting girl refused to comprehend that, and well... I didn't need her alive.

' Perhaps she didn't care? No matter the case, she rejected my courtesy and I responded in kind.'

.
In regards to the Template's initial creation, Kaguya's very first target was Mikoto Uchiha – a beautiful and gracious new "Mother".

Stolen from her bed mere hours after giving birth to a certain "weasel", Mikoto was (obviously) in no condition to reject or deny anything- a fact Kaguya exploited in full.

"Yes, both her renowned, delicate grace and the ancient power within her noble line had lent themselves nicely to "The Template".

"Through Mikoto's desperation to see her child again, she was cooperative enough.

' A good conversationist too...' Kaguya can't help but chuckle, remembering the moments she understood just how much information Mikoto had managed to get out of her.

' She made the best of a horrible situation. I respect that tenacity.'

' I took a lot of her blood and hair but as I promised, the Uchiha woman was safely returned to her original world.

Yes in a little under a month Mikoto was happily reunited with her infant and grateful husband...

"I'd say it was quite touching. Really, who knew a harsh man like that cold, icy Fugaku Uchiha had it in him?

"That he could o be so... gentle?"

"Three miserable weeks he believed his wife Mikoto was surely dead...

"That awed look on his face upon her return. Such happy eyes, for an entire moment I wished I were in her place."

Oh... is that why I faced Kyou directly? Appeal to him person to person?"

Kaguya doesn't like this line of thought but it has too much merit to simply dismiss.

' I suppose that through "the Template", a human body partially born of beautiful Mikoto's blood...

' I was able to "be" Sora. To "live" as myself and yet not... Despite it all, he loved me fiercely... I returned that with all my heart.

"It must sound ridiculous, but I never went in actively seeking to seduce him. I only wanted to speak.

Admittedly I definitely overboard with a shy front, but on that day, Kyou gave me his blood by choice. "

Indeed on that original meeting, seduction was the furthest thing from Kaguya’s mind.

' Had THAT been on my mind, I wouldn't have approached him in a body derived from his granddaughter Tsunade.

"I sought only cooperation and Kyou Uzumaki... He too wanted a better world.

To spare his clan future genocide at the hands of Kumo and their colloborating allies.

"That eventual first night- no."

Pacing the palace veranda overlooking nothing with an erratic pace, Kaguya wants these thoughts to vanish.

"Not again, I won't think of this any longer!

"No matter how I wish it so, Kyou was never looking at me. Only his "Beloved Sora" It was never me, always the mask Sora, NEVER Kaguya."

"How do I NEVER learn my lesson?"

The nickname she once treasured so deeply now stings to consider.

"I'm not blind, it was a temporary escape, nothing more than a pretty illusion..." Kaguya assured herself.

"And even if it weren't... It's far too late now. My choice is made, I must live with the consequence."

' She shoves her slight envy and lingering regrets aside.

Next to the piece of her heart that knows full well she should have been honest with the Uzumaki lord to the side, Kaguya assures herself that whatever became of "that Mikoto" after, let alone her clan's eventual fate...

" That Mikoto fished for a lot of details and I bit her hook, whether it saved her clan or merely doomed them faster... Well, none of it is of any interest to me. "

The days following Mikoko's "post retrieval" were quickly filled in by Tsunade Senju- A dead woman cut down by White Zetsu, (alongside her degenerate teammate Jirayia) and just before their state-sanctioned crimes against Ame.

- In Kaguya’s eyes, the blood of this once-destined "crone" was perhaps the most important ingredient to her plan.

"A uniquely crucial piece to "the template", No sense trying to take that one in alive.

Too much of a headache, besides even ignoring her ancestry, Tsunade's famed control and beautiful efficiency in expending her Chakra were invaluable to Kaguya's needs. As is the latent potential for Wood Release...

' Tsunade failed to tap into her ancestor's might, my children will not.

A declaration that has since come to fruition.

One more so of all, but even my Shiro and Reiji have reaped many benefits."

All these fragments and more... they form the basis of a trick... A wacky 'prank' if you will.

A well-defined path that can only end with a new and improved shinobi world happily bowing before her.

" Or at least one version. Well, there's always room for expansion." Kaguya mused.

Less relevant to the plan but oh so amusing to Kaguya are the many a dead Tobirama- mostly because his pompous arrogance irritates her.

As her youngest son, Black Zetsu places the freshest corpse with the others, out of habit, Kaguya examines the mutilated body in silence.

Satisfied with what lies before her eyes, she mockingly pondered aloud.

“What has this monster done to warrant such an ego? I know propaganda is effective, but these so-called forbidden techniques... - Have brought worlds more harm to his people than any actual good.

“It’s truly a wonder he didn’t spread them around so the rival users would kill themselves and spare his loyal shinobi the bloodshed.

At least then the many dead test subjects he so brutally experimented on wouldn't have died in vain.” It took all Kaguya had not to spit at the pointless waste.

Dismissing these and many other distractive thoughts, she turned her attention to Orochimaru.

Far on the other side of her domain. Encompassing the eastern wing, there his strange lab resides.

Within these dark and enigmatic corridors contain all of Orochimaru's fixtures and data, collected from many periods of history and perfectly recreated in this one convenient place.

Boldly striding within, Kaguya is unusually chipper and straight to the point.

“Orochimaru. Pardon my intrusion but our time grows short. My curated world is just about where I need it to be, I assume you have everything in order?”

“Absolutely. Believe me Lady Kaguya, without a doubt, the vessels for your… children, are just about perfect." He said softly.

"You'll find them adept in concealing the boys... shall we say unique origin." His voice softens further, and Orochimaru's tone is more inquisitive. "She too is also about ready."

“Ah yes, the girl... I concur, she will do nicely. Merely a toddler, yet already an ingenue in the making!

"Dare I say it Orochimaru? By the time she is seventeen, half our battle will already be won."

Orochimaru shifts, Kaguya wouldn't describe his posturing as uncomfortable, but he's definitely not at ease like she'd prefer. ' I thought by now he'd be more comfortable in my presence.'

Before she can comment or attempt to soothe his nerves, he responds smoothly, his usual deliberate hiss absent.

"I agree. No matter whom she chooses for a partner, the resulting lineage will only contribute to your otherworldly counterpart’s stable rebirth."

"Though I think we all understand she should aim as high as possible.

"Better the deck is stacked in ... her favor.”

They look at the shortest glass tube in suspension. There a clear container rests holding a young, slumbering child floating in a sickly color liquid.

A strange sight for sure, but one that manages to make Kaguya smile all the brighter.

"Soon, my Little Songbird."

At Kaguya's words, Orochimaru notes that for the first time since he's known Kaguya he's seeing complete sincerity in her silvery eyes.

"She is... calmer than before. Less erratic in temper. Ten long years we've collaborated and only now-"

Her words jolt him out of his nostalgia.

“You have done well. My expectations are more than surpassed. As promised, once I enter my chamber for slumber, you may claim your reward.

"Trust me when I say that you've more than earned it.”

Lightly inclining his head at her words, Orochimaru is a bit more deferential but still proud.

“I appreciate it. It’s a pity so many had to die, nonetheless, these final maiden, mother, and crone 'variants' your children gathered, will make fine subjects for my own improved bodily vessel.

"I prefer to think of them as "heroes", Orochimaru." Said Kaguya. "Is this not what it means to be "shinobi"?

"Yes, there's probably air of tragedy, to die off the battlefield, but from their deaths come everyone else's salvation."

Orochimaru swallowed, his throat dry. “Yes, perhaps they'd prefer it this way?

"I really just wish "the boy" could have survived too." His tone was controlled but Kaguya caught that barest hint of regret.

"Poor dear, you know I spared your world's Tsunade just for you right? My Snakeling, it's not your fault, her brother died."

"If it helps, remember, the "War Hawk", he was never going to let Nowaki Senju live. Her Dan too.

"For the Warhawk's greed and ambitions, all threats (perceived or otherwise) had to be removed.

“You kept them both alive a few good years longer than any other alternate, cherish those precious extra years.

"Comfort yourself by understanding the sad but simple truth- that neither individual held the power to thrive in earnest.

“The world is cruel and neither could last on their own two feet.

Orochimaru doesn't respond. He only averts his eyes.

Kaguya's voice is even more motherly. "You surely see it was beyond your control, right?"

"I get it, I've seen those... other worlds.

"And I am grateful that at least my Tsunade isn't wallowing quite so hard... She and Shizune actually drop by Konoha." Orochimaru conceded.

"Not often, but it's preferable to the countless alcoholic disasters..."

Swiftly moving the subject matter along, Orochimaru is more firm in his demeanor. The unspoken barrier between them is raised in full.

"Now then, I have some final tidbits of note, see for yourself."

Handing the stack forward, Orochimaru's passion for his "art" leaks through his attempt at cold, clinical stoicism.

"As we hoped, the final infusion of your blood and chakra forced them from "recessive" to "dominant".

"In addition, the truest and most potential residing deep within the ancestral abilities of the "donor" cells, it all lent even more power and efficiency to your children’s revised template."

"Your vessel "Sora", she too was tweaked accordingly. Though as you insisted, she has been placed beneath the Uzumaki private library...

"- That coffin, you know it was a nightmare to hide properly."

"Now Snakeling, I did my part too, the glasswork, inscribing and framing were all me. All you had to handle was the placement."

"Yes, but your clunky design and layered seal work- moving on." The man deeply inhaled and exhaled.

"All in all, we are looking at the pinnacle of biological Perfection. Both, mother and all three of her children.

Under his breath, he murmurs, "Their blood will do the same for me.”

“You are entitled to do so Snakeling, I won't interfere. Not with these remarkable efforts all around.

"By all means, reap the benefits of your work."

"I am especially pleased here. The way you successfully incorporated the Uzumaki Adamantine Chains from our "maiden" Kushina, this was a nice touch.

“Such a rare, coveted ability, even amongst her Uzumaki family.

"It's bad enough my Byakugan had to be suppressed, I was worried something more would have to be sacrificed.”

Orochimaru can't help but perk at Kaguya's appraisal.

“Oh naturally, I went out of my way to avoid that possibility.

"That loss is regrettable but the Byakugan ties them to the ghastly Hyuuga clan, and we can't have them hounding the children.

"They'd force that appalling Caged Bird seal upon their forehead and reduce the children to slaves of the main household." The disgust in his voice couldn't be understated.

"True. Thankfully, because of you my Snakeling that is no longer a potential concern.

"Oppositely so, the Adamantine chains will prove paramount in legitimizing their supposed 'truth' of origin.

"I think their hair is "close enough" but the children lacking the famous "Uzumaki violet" eyes will be impossible to miss and that represents great risk." Interjected Kaguya.

"Yes, I'm aware Lady Kaguya. They bear roughly fifty-one percent Uzumaki blood, but without the visual cues, it's too easily dismissed.

"Truth be told, I say the hint of red in their hair isn't even close to enough."

"Still, with the chains, We are no longer at risk for accusations of slander and deceit. In this way, their story can't be perceived as anything BUT the truth.

"How could it NOT be? The Uzumaki noble household will be left humiliated."

"Humiliated yes Orochimaru, but not removed from the picture entirely. For the best really, they aren't without "use" and we don't want genocide of our own making.

“That's a weak willed tactic that's best left to our lessers.

"Something to publicly shame and chastise them for.

Potentially even turn their remaining allies towards "us".

"I do love it so! The moral high ground is a key tool and one that should never be wasted."

Settling herself in a chair and humming a deceptively gentle melody, Kaguya studies the offered notes more carefully.

She is most pleased to see the additional confirmation that among "certain other" elemental affinities, the flawless "Mokuton" Wood is present in her three perfect hybrids.

Admittedly not to the same extent. 'Something so "uniform" would be impractical. Not to mention a headache.' Kaguya hummed louder at the thought...

'I think we have a good thing going here.

"On the surface we have a biting snowstorm for dear Shiroyuki, galloping lightning for sweet Reiji, and these eternal blooms of infinite potential for my Little Songbird; Sakuya.' Kaguya's thoughts turn more prideful.

' Alone these children are great, worthy of reverence, but together, my three children will be unstoppable. Anyone of them would be an ancestor worth bragging about.'

'My traitorous two... This could have been you as well. Why did you choose your miserable, treacherous father?'

After a time she feels Oorochimaru’s stare. “May I help you Snakeling?” she asked kindly.

“Oh I’m merely curious. Have you thought of a name, for your counterpart’s soon-to-be mother? I've been cooperating with you for years.

"I saw firsthand as you chose Shiroyuki and Reiji with such care, I can't help but wonder.”

“Well, I do try to be more careful with her Orochimaru. When "the girl" looks at me, she sees only an illusion of her "mother".

“The Senju/Uchiha hybrid. Despite the gilded cage, as a prisoner, "Sora" wouldn't feel particularly close to children fathered by her captor and I'm merely keeping to that "role".

"It's really important to you that our future "Songbird" be "Innocent" hmm? asked Orochimaru. His discomfort was more than apparent.

"Of course my Snakling, Authenticity is key.

"I won't risk her kind, empathetic heart coming off as performative. That would only jeopardize my aims."

"She will comply with her brothers because she has no reason to doubt. It's her "truth". It's that certainty, her purity of mind, heart and soul.

"An aura of authenticity if you will. Something like that can only come from the sincerest belief.

"THAT is the ultimate key to my plan taking full and proper root."

Orochimaru nods. He still very much disapproves but knows better than to interfere where his input isn't welcome.

' I'm fortunate enough she spared my world undue chaos. Excluding Jiraya of course, but we can't win 'em all. Best not to sweat the small stuff.'

Kaguya speaks on. "Now since you asked, indeed I have picked one. Sakuya- the Ootsutsuki name is forever lost, yet like the boys her blood belies an amalgamation of my own plus the most idolized bloodlines.

“There is zero chance she and her dear older brothers won’t-”

“The boys know the plan well. Arrive from the waters of Waves, a direct shot from the deadly whirlpools of Uzushio.

‘Accidentally’ expose their identity as the results of a Uchiha and Senju bastard mother and Kyou Uzumaki.

"I suppose they might infer the "selfish" Uzumaki Lord, kept poor, beautiful "Sora" as his unwilling plaything, but it's unlikely. Not with ther children's heirlooms being so visible.”

"Wait, so that's why you had me combing the beaches of the dead world?

"So many variants and yet so few viable pearls to show for it." He interjected in surprise.

"I feel a bit foolish now, here I thought I must have done something to upset you...

"It all makes sense, these coveted Uzushio pearls will adorn their throat... The protected chains of chakra-infused alloy, It's all additional proof of their heritage."

Kaguya is silent, her expression appraising. Orochimaru continues his speculation.

"This black Uzusiho pearl pendant must be for Reiji and the white pearl is obviously for your Shiroyuki. Although I'm not seeing anything for the girl."

Kaguya interrupted. "Oh to the contrary, my songbird's gift is already well and truly accounted for Orochimaru."

"Make no mistake I am NOT favoring the boys." The hint of irritation, vanished just as quickly.

"At this moment, she is too young, but they know that when the time is right to present Sakuya with this."

Looking closely, Orochimaru sees a looping, circular chain of perfectly symmetrical white and black pearls.

The lengthy silvery links of chakra metal between the pearls. Every link discreetly etched with protective engraved seals, the scientist retracts his ill-informed disapproval.

"I see, by the time this surfaces, they'll have heard years of denial, but with something so incriminating..."

"You see now? Yes, in the world I've so carefully chosen, it's been missing from the treasury for about three years now.

"When that day comes, with this resting upon her brow, the excess length woven through her hair like stars in the night, there will be no doubt of "the truth".

"Poor, poor Kyou, when this comes out, his closest friends and allies won't believe him.

" Well, I am a generous soul and ensured there be a way or two for him to make the best of it... Let's see if Kyou's pride allows it."

Recognizing what Kaguya's words implied, Orochimaru shakes his head.

"You aren't concerned this could be taken as an act of redemption?

“Someone might think it romantic and decide the children's mother couldn't possibly have been a captive, only a willing consort- I...

“I saw the Uzumaki divorce certificate, it’s valid and would make things simpler for the kid's personal "history".

" Kyou divorced Aika Uzumaki, and well before your template..."

"The marriage license too. The Kanji for "emptiness", a bit on the nose don't you think?" Orochimaru's eyes widened minutely.

Catching himself the man breathes in.

"Please pretend I didn't say that. Look, with all this proof of legitimacy in easy reaching distance, why bother with so many... Theatrics?"

Kaguya stares a moment before sighing. "I see you still lack a degree of "vision".

Shaking her head in mild disappointment, Kaguya clarifies her lofty expectations.

“No matter, I'm not offended. And at the end of the day, my children won't "confirm" any narrative either way so it isn’t an issue.

"Not for a while, in the meantime let the civilians speculate."

"Besides in the eyes of said civilians, even "if" Kyou "loved" them, it doesn't change the fact he still called for their death.

“Ah, Without a doubt the pity the civilians will feel for the six-year-old twins and the little sister they dote upon...

"It will fuel their worry."

"-Look even if I'm wrong Orochimaru, what matters is that through their compassion and concern for the most vulnerable, they will arrange these "innocent" children's transportation to safety. That much is a certainty."

“Far away from the cowardly family who threw away their mother once his legitimate daughter Mito and her mother threatened to expose their existence.

"Above all, the budding resentment they already feel for the privileged Uzumaki name will tip, discrediting their influence. If only a little.”

“I see Lady Kaguya. If I could be so bold I assume that from there it’s on our little ‘Shiroyuki and his fraternal twin brother Reiji’ to handle the rest.

“Going by the meticulous specifics of what you had me inscribe on their new hereditary imprint, the Biju of that universe will gradually disperse, their energy solidifying Sakuya and both her brother's bodies.

"None can simply assassinate them. It would be to the attacker's detriment.”

Turning her head Kaguya looks him in the eye. And what else? I’m sure you aren’t finished.”

Releasing a hiss-like sigh, Orochimaru whispers. “And pass the artificially reformed Jubi forward through their resulting families.”

“Well look at you my Snakling, you figured it out. Not that it was supposed to be a secret. Kaguya chided gently. Her amusement is sincere.

“One of the first things I shared with you Orochimaru is that this world’s Mito won’t live past her thirtieth year. And that Tobirama Senju will die in Izuna Uchiha’s stead. -Erased from history just as that fool intended for the Uchihas.”

“It doesn't take much brain power to infer steps three and on.” She said, not really a chastisement so much as a statement of simple fact.

“I’m not complaining Lady Kaguya, it will be fascinating to observe the continued war. -From the safety and stability of my own world of course.”

“Naturally, my darling snakeling has earned his promised reward and more. Upon your return, you’ll find the position of Hokage all but yours. Claiming it will be but a formality.”

“My boys personally ensured the biggest annoyances are already taken care of.

“A fatal heart attack for Homura, a stroke paralyzing more than half her body for hypocritical Koharu, and old reliable pulmonary embolism for your monstrous war hawk.”

“Believe me Lady Kaguya I am far from ungrateful. I've observed that with his teacher dead and "Precious Kushina" MIA, poor, poor Minato has been floundering.

"Fair enough Snakeling, his passion is extinguished, his talent waning on the sideline. And since Jirayia is dead, he isn't exactly cheering Minato up either." Kaguya allowed.

“As you say Kaguya, that Namikaze is no threat to my ascension today, and with the right pressures and distractions to keep his mind occupied, he never will be.”

“Good for you and your ambitions Orochimaru. Don't get me wrong, it’s always nice to focus on the positives, just don’t forget your personal public image. Ever.

“The people need and deserve a strong, capable leader, I agree with you there, but above all, they must be able to trust you Snakeling. Be their beacon of trust and transparency.

“For that end I offer you a final present. A permanent doorway to my palace between worlds.

"Here you will be free to continue learning as much as your heart desires.

“I only advise you to keep any and all of your more questionable experimentation to the dead of these many failed existences.

“You won't be hurting for cadavers as the corpses here remain fresh as the day they stopped breathing.

“Of course Lady Kaguya, you have my word. Now then I think it’s about time. I assume you don’t require my presence and I best be on my way.” Orochimaru said with a respectful bow.
~
Wishing him a life of satisfaction and dismissing her cautious surrogate son, with a nod, Kaguya calls her two most deserving children; Black and White to her side.

Releasing a breath of long-held anticipation Kaguya murmurs to herself. “Finally, at long last, it’s finally time.”

Carefully assisting them with the binding into their new hybrid bodies, and guiding them through a first bathing, Kaguya eases their silent worry.

“Reiji and Shiroyuki, my true children… You who never betrayed me. This will not be easy."

"I wish I could do more to comfort you, but in truth, you will be among enemies. At least for the time being."

“The biggest note of relief is that your alternate counterparts won’t be too much trouble.

"These vessels can’t hinder your innate connection so absorbing them into yourselves shouldn’t be any different from before.

“Still, due to the restrictions on your new forms, it's likely the battle could be ugly.

“Please remember, these bodies are that of children, human children. I know as mine you’re each many times stronger than ordinary mortals, but I urge you to delay. Delay as long as you find it feasible.

"Avoid confronting them as long as possible. It's your decision, but perhaps wait to destroy the tablet until after the One-tail is assimilated? Maybe the Two-tails as well, just to be sure.

"Not at "HIS" expense of course, but whatever the case, I implore you don't be unprepared."

Retrieving Sakuya and giving her the same warm treatment, Kaguya cuddles all three into an affectionate embrace. She whispers fondly. "Please, please be cautious. It’s not worth the risk.

"My little ones, you three are NOT a sacrifice I'm willing to make. It’s unacceptable.

“Now then take good care of your… sister, Sakuya... Our songbird, she needs you both just as you will need her. I cannot overstate it, NO dying on each other understand me?"

"Sacrifice anything else if necessary, but NEVER each other.”

The duo of eerily beautiful ‘little boys’ before her nod, the sheer sincerity of their devotion radiating off in warm comforting waves of adoration.

Once again Kaguya finds herself pleased that her choice to treat them with more maternal affection than many of her failed counterparts has borne such delicious, loyal fruit.

' Although it seems their new human bodies are making it a bit more pronounced.

' Ah well, better for me and them alike. This childish innocence can only benefit their situation. All the better for them to flourish in full.'

"Let's go over it once more. Shiroyuki, as the eldest brother, when they ask, 'Who is your family', what will be your response?"

Bunching his left fist the boy brightens, his smile positively angelic "I tell them our father is Lord Kyou Uzumaki. Mama is just Mama, "Sora" doesn't know her family, but her eyes turn red like blood. Like this."

At Shiroyuki’s words, his eyes of polished silver bleed into a vivid crimson. Two black curves dot the center.

"Very good Shiro. Straight to the point and very much a child's answer.”

“Now Reiji, what is the reason you three are fleeing your home, the Uzu Whirlpool village?"

Looking thoroughly distraught, 'Reiji' faces the ground, his shoulders trembling. His voice on the verge of tears, Reiji whimpers out.

"Mama says our big sister Mito made Papa choose between her and Aika Uzumaki or us.

"He chose them cause they're his 'real family'.
"Disgraces to their noble legacy must be purged.

" Mama helped us escape on a boat but she lost her life in the process"

In Reiji's passionate display, his Eternal Mangekyou was only briefly visible before settling into a more 'basic' two tomoe.

Kaguya knows the Sharingan which flashed prominently in Reiji's eyes, will be presumed by anyone remotely knowledgeable to have "awakened" by the boy's horrible ordeal.

'It's no Rinnegan, but thanks to my blood combined with our Snakeling's tinkering, the children's augmented blood allows a perfected so-called "Eternal" variation of the infamous "Mangekyou" to be possible.

' And all without taking another's eyes for one's benefit. Heredity alone will suffice.' Kaguya thought proudly.

'Their eyes truly do reflect the love in Shiro and Reiji's brimming hearts.'

Kaguya speaks kindly. "Excellent performance overall my Sweet Reiji, but maybe try to keep it on the simpler side.

"This applies to you too Shiroyuki- Avoid using such eloquent phrasing. Not for the time being."

"Remember to these people you are but lost children in need of warmth and protection.

“Commit yourselves to the role of innocents. Tragic victims of an oppressive power unjustly targeting you for reasons, not your fault."

"To better emphasize your innocence, (for their benefit), hold back on the more explicit detail.

"In my experience, I've found it's usually better to let the one asking questions draw their own conclusions. Use those assumptions to your advantage.

“That goes double here since only a truly independent investigation will find Sora, the hidden corpse of Senju and Uchiha blood.

Until then, they'll never guess what's right underneath their feet."

"When that day comes, and the template "Sora" is exposed as 'your mother', well, if I’ve done my job right, that highly traumatic and most incriminating discovery will begin the Uzumaki alienation.

"Naive as they are of their own influence, the Uzumaki will cut themselves off from the world."

Creating the crack-like rift connecting to the distant warring era, the sound of roaring tides impossible to ignore, Kaguya keeps them calm.

Tucking a loose blood moon-colored lock behind Shiroyuki’s ear, and ruffling the shy, giggling Reiji’s identical colored bangs she smiles with a soothing, maternal air.

"It seems our time together is up, remember as follows." Handling a squirming Sakuya to Shiroyuki’s careful arms, Kaguya remains calm.

"Erase Tobirama Senju, ensure their so-called "god of shinobi" isn't so much as a footnote in Konoha's founding.

"Remove him from any heroic ties or associations. His name must be one of indifference.

“Exactly like he has done in so many existences to the Uchiha after they stopped being useful to his spineless brother.

"Two and most importantly, destabilize Hashirama Senju's path to power. His death is optional but remember there is great potential for him to be useful. Regardless, I leave his fate to your discretion.

"What matters is killing Mito Uzumaki and disgracing her lord father Kyou.

"Appearing as 'his ill-gotten bastards' whom he tried to eliminate is a good start to cutting off Hashirama's rise...

“So far as our goals go, though it’s surely the most optimal path, don't forget that circumstances change. There are ALWAYS alternative avenues worth exploring.

"If another option presents itself and looks more fruitful, by all means seize it."

"On that note, if you, my adorable children are so inclined, you can help them mend their reputation later.

"Absolve them through "forgiveness" or "acceptance", but I suggest only bothering if doing so will further your aims.

"Naturally there is no obligation... Across many worlds, the Uzumaki do hold some legitimate blame for many of the world's problems.

"I wouldn't blame you for thinking any retaliation the civilians unleash could be acceptable.

"So long as you remember, their full extermination IS NOT on the table. Ensure that line remains uncrossed, beyond that their fate should be of little concern to you three.

“Ideally Kyou's ego and the Uzumaki's need to "Keep Face" will surely prevent any direct interference, but keep vigilant."

The rift before her is now big enough for the children to enter, Kaguya kisses each firmly on the brow and urges them forward.

“Go now, Mother loves you with all her being and knows everything will be as planned.

“If you ever find yourselves faltering simply remember that as my children a part of me and our blood legacy is always with you.”

“You have nothing to fear. Not from me nor my counterpart.
"So long as the two tasks are fulfilled, you may live your new lives as you see fit. Do with my blessings what you will.”

With these final words the three make their way inside, falling into the sea below their feet.

Though relatively close to shore, the rippling tide sweeps them upward.

The foamy sea is eager as always to claim new blood, but Kaguya is unconcerned.

' My darlings will be fine, the boys know I timed it to open just as the fishing boats are making their return for the evening.

"They know their role and have never failed me.”

Contenting herself with reassurance and her confidence in their abilities, Kaguya smiles. Serene and joyful, her ruby lips only barely contain her rising anticipation.

Striding toward her comfortable seating, a place Kaguya prepared for her slumber, the goddess's thoughts are full of content excitement.

“Let us see how my other self handles these curve balls…

"Even if by some disaster she fails to allow herself to be reborn through "our" magnificent avatar, Sakuya, I win.

“Yes, by virtue of throwing that world's intended trajectory asunder, I have already won.'

'All that's left now is for my Reiji and Shiroyuki to react accordingly. I believe in them both.'

In one form or another Konoha may very well come to exist. Too bad for Hashirama Senju his idealized Will of Fire can be no more.

At least in the way he envisioned... On that day at the river... With Madara.

"The arrogant fool, off his guard, he'll fall and plummet hard.”

Slipping into a comfortable position for her sleep, a melody flows from Kaguya's lips.

"In the darkest depths of night, twin blades glow, bearing hands know, fools can't know, waking dreams, forever may they cease.

"My New Moon, soar on without wings, embrace the black night.

Through my design, their hearts are pierced by aching transcendent light.

May all bend, to the depths of my truest love.

"Oh new moon absent in light, my arms forever stained with blood and sorrow. Will our new dawn free my heart? This... prison of my own design..."