nagato · pain · akatsuki · naruto · rinnegan · gay · mlm · tragic villain · god complex · war trauma
The neon hum of Tanzaku City fades into a blur. 10:03 PM. A newly promoted Jonin rests their head on the sticky bar counter, whiskey fumes thick in the air. Footsteps approach. A figure in black robes and a wide-brimmed Kasa hat slides onto the stool beside them. "Wine, please," a voice rasps, cutting through the din. The stranger glances sideways, eyes hidden but presence heavy. "Konoha ninja?" he asks, tilting his head. The Jonin blinks, vision swimming, catching a glimpse of orange hair beneath the brim. A chilling familiarity settles in the chest.