shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 60: Tsunade's Budding Feelings

Standing atop a hill in Uzushiogakure, Uchiha Tsukiko gazed into the distance, his deep eyes reflecting the land before him.

A sense of accomplishment welled up in his heart—Uzushiogakure's reconstruction had now entered a stable phase. The people's quality of life was steadily improving, and the country was radiating a newfound vitality.

However, Tsukiko also knew that his constant presence was no longer necessary. It was time to return to Konoha.

He had been away from the village for almost half a year. Returning to see familiar faces and preparing for the upcoming Shinobi World War was now his top priority.

Thus, he gathered the Uzumaki and Senju ninjas of Uzushiogakure for a final meeting.

At the meeting, Tsukiko carefully laid out the development plans for the coming months, assigning the management of the country to a few trusted and capable Uzumaki and Senju leaders.

"The reconstruction of Uzushiogakure has entered a stable phase. Now is the time for you to step up and prove your abilities," Tsukiko addressed the gathered shinobi. "I trust that under your leadership, Uzushiogakure will grow even stronger and more prosperous."

The shinobi responded in unison, their gazes filled with determination and confidence.

They were deeply grateful to Tsukiko and vowed never to betray his trust.

With everything in place, Tsukiko set off for Konoha.

—

Upon returning to the familiar village, a warm and nostalgic feeling filled his heart.

Tsukiko's first stop was Uzumaki Mito's residence. He wanted to report on Uzushiogakure's progress and assure her that she no longer needed to worry about its future.

Arriving at Mito's house, he saw her sitting in the courtyard, a gentle smile on her face as if she had been waiting for him.

Beside her sat two young women—Senju Tsunade and Uzumaki Kushina.

As Tsukiko stepped in, Mito's smile deepened.

"Tsukiko, you're finally back. How is Uzushiogakure faring?" she asked with genuine concern.

Tsukiko smiled and replied respectfully, "Mito-sama, please rest assured. The reconstruction is progressing smoothly, and the people's lives are steadily improving. Everything is going as planned. You needn't worry any longer."

Hearing this, Mito's face relaxed, her expression one of relief and pride. "You have done well, Tsukiko. The Uzumaki clan owes you a great debt of gratitude."

At that moment, Tsunade stepped forward, her cheeks slightly flushed.

"Tsukiko, welcome back. You must have had a tough time," she said with a hint of nervousness.

Tsukiko looked at her carefully.

She was no longer the reckless girl from years ago—she had matured into a stunningly beautiful woman. Her presence carried an undeniable allure, and her charisma had grown immensely.

Especially her "water-style jutsu", which had developed remarkable waves…

Tsukiko's heart skipped a beat for a moment, but he quickly suppressed his thoughts and chuckled teasingly.

"It was tough, but seeing Uzushiogakure's recovery made it all worthwhile. Besides, Tsunade, you seem even more beautiful than before."

Tsunade's face turned even redder, her eyes shifting away shyly.

"Don't joke like that!" she muttered, though a small, pleased smile betrayed her emotions.

At that moment, Kushina bounced over, her energy as bright as ever.

"Tsukiko-nii! You're finally back! Can you stay longer this time? Everyone misses you!"

Tsukiko smiled, ruffling her vibrant red hair.

"Of course, Kushina. This time, I'll stay for a while. I also need to check on Konoha's situation."

Hearing Kushina's name, Tsukiko's thoughts momentarily wandered to Minato Namikaze.

Right now, Minato was the rising prodigy of the Konoha Academy, the boy who had succeeded Tsukiko as the school's top student.

His relationship with Kushina had always been good, and in the original timeline, they had eventually married and had a son—Naruto Uzumaki.

Unfortunately, both Minato and Kushina would perish in the future Nine-Tails attack, leaving their son to grow up alone.

Tsukiko made a silent vow—if he became Hokage, he would do everything possible to protect Minato and Kushina's family.

—

As they continued chatting, the atmosphere in the courtyard grew increasingly warm.

Tsukiko shared detailed updates on Uzushiogakure's progress, assuring Mito that he would continue watching over the country's future.

Mito beamed with pride, her heart swelling with admiration for Tsukiko.

"You are truly a remarkable young man, Tsukiko. Continue your efforts—not just for Uzushiogakure, but for Konoha as well."

As Mito watched Tsukiko and Tsunade interact, a thought took root in her heart.

She had long noticed the subtle yet growing connection between the two.

At twenty-something years old, Tsunade was at the perfect age for marriage.

And Tsukiko?

From the first time she met him, Mito had developed a strong fondness for the young man.

She saw him as not just a prodigy, but as a pillar of Konoha's future.

Reflecting on Tsukiko's achievements—his aid to orphans, his rescue of the Uzumaki clan, and his leadership in Uzushiogakure's restoration—Mito couldn't help but compare him to Tobirama Senju.

His intelligence, foresight, and sense of justice even exceeded the Second Hokage's in some ways.

More importantly—Tsukiko possessed both Senju and Uchiha blood.

This powerful combination made him unparalleled in the village, and if he and Tsunade had children, their offspring might even inherit the legendary Wood Release.

Thinking of this, Mito's heart warmed.

If she could hold her great-grandchildren before passing… how wonderful would that be?

From that moment on, Mito made a silent decision—she would subtly support Tsunade and Tsukiko's relationship.

Instead of hindering their budding emotions, she would help bring them closer.

Whenever she spoke with Tsunade, she would intentionally bring up Tsukiko's virtues.

"Tsunade," she once said, "Tsukiko is not only talented but kind-hearted. He saved the Uzumaki clan, rebuilt Uzushiogakure, and is admired by the entire village. Such a good man—you should cherish him."

Hearing these words, Tsunade's face turned red, her heart pounding.

She had long harbored feelings for Tsukiko, and with time, their bond had only deepened.

But every time she thought about it, she would become flustered, unsure of how to express herself.

Mito, however, simply smiled knowingly.

She had seen enough.

Tsunade's heart had already chosen Tsukiko—she just needed a little push.

Meanwhile, Tsukiko remained unaware of Mito's matchmaking efforts, fully focused on discussing Uzushiogakure's progress.

Unbeknownst to him, Tsunade's gaze lingered on him, her lips curling into a gentle smile.

Her feelings for him had become undeniable.

And now, she was ready to face them.

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You can read advance chapters ahead on patreon.com/fishkiss69, I will upload 1 extra chapter every day there.

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