Naruto: Starting By Saving Mikoto

Mikoto frowned slightly, her eyes narrowing as she considered his words. "It's an interesting theory," she admitted, "but dangerous. 

The Mangekyō Sharingan isn't just about the trauma—it's about the depth of the emotional bond and the weight of the loss. 

Even if you could create an illusion strong enough to mimic that experience, the mind might not be able to differentiate between illusion and reality. You could end up causing irreversible damage to your psyche."

Hiro listened to her words, his mind racing through the implications. He knew she was right; the risks were enormous. But the potential reward, the power of the Mangekyō, was something he couldn't ignore.

"I understand the risks," he said after a moment, his voice resolute. "But I need to find a way. The power of the Mangekyō could be the key to protecting you."

Mikoto's eyes softened, and she sighed, leaning slightly against him. "Hiro, I know you want to protect us, but sometimes the cost is too high. 

The Mangekyō Sharingan isn't just a tool; it's a burden. Those who awaken it are often consumed by its power. It twists them, changes them. I don't want that to happen to you."

Hiro tightened his grip on her hand, his gaze unwavering. "I won't let that happen, Mikoto. I'll be careful. I just need to know more. Anything you can tell me, any insights you have, might help."

Mikoto hesitated, then nodded slowly. 

"There are stories, old ones, about Uchiha who tried to unlock the Mangekyō without losing someone.

Some of them delved into forbidden techniques, experimenting with powerful genjutsu and mind-altering jutsu. 

But most of those stories ended in tragedy. The mind is fragile, Hiro. Even with the Sharingan, there's a limit to what it can endure."

She paused, looking into his eyes, her voice softening. "But if anyone can find a way, it's you."

Mikoto was silent for a moment, then she smiled faintly, her hand resting on his chest. "Just don't lose sight of what's truly important. No power is worth losing yourself or the people you love."

"I won't," Hiro assured her, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "I promise."

Mikoto's smile grew a little warmer, though the concern didn't fully leave her eyes. "There's something else," she said softly. 

"In the old stories, there's talk of a way to lessen the toll the Mangekyō takes on the user. 

It's said that if two Uchiha who have unlocked the Mangekyō exchange their eyes, they can awaken the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan, a version of the dojutsu that doesn't deteriorate with use."

Hiro raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So there's a way to strengthen the Mangekyō without the drawbacks?" Although he already knew, there was no harm in asking.

"In theory," Mikoto confirmed. "But the Eternal Mangekyō is even rarer than the Mangekyō itself. There are almost no records of it being achieved, and those who have are often shrouded in mystery. 

It's a dangerous path, but if you're determined to unlock the Mangekyō, it's something to keep in mind for the future."

Hiro nodded, filing away the information. "Thank you, wifey. I'll keep that in mind."

Mikoto's face turned red as he called her "wifey." 

"Who are you calling 'wifey'? We're not even married yet."

Hiro chuckled softly at her reaction, the teasing note in his voice unmistakable. "Well, we've been living together for a while now, haven't we? Feels like we're already married in every way that matters."

Mikoto's blush deepened, and she looked away, trying to hide the small, shy smile tugging at her lips. "That's… not how it works, Hiro," she mumbled, though the warmth in her tone betrayed her.

Hiro leaned closer, gently cupping her chin and turning her face back toward him. 

"Maybe not officially," he said softly, his eyes locking onto hers, "but in my heart, you're already my wife."

Mikoto's breath hitched slightly, and she found herself lost in his gaze. 

The sincerity in his words made her heart flutter, and for a moment, she couldn't find the words to respond.

Hiro smiled, his heart swelling with affection as he leaned in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Then it's settled," he murmured against her skin. 

"We'll figure out the details later, but for now, just know that you're mine, Mikoto. Infinite, always, forever."

Mikoto closed her eyes, savoring the warmth of his touch and the comfort of his words. For the first time in a long while, she felt a sense of peace and security that she had only ever dreamed of.

The rest of the day passed in quiet, comfortable silence, both of them lost in their thoughts but content in each other's presence. 

As night fell and they prepared for bed, Mikoto couldn't help but steal glances at Hiro, her heart full of love and a newfound sense of belonging.

As they lay down together, Hiro pulled her close, his arm draped protectively around her waist. "Goodnight, wifey," he whispered teasingly.

Mikoto playfully swatted his chest, her face a mix of embarrassment and amusement. "You're impossible," she said with a laugh.

Hiro's smile was gentle, his eyes soft with affection. "I know. But it's all part of the charm," he replied, his voice a low murmur against the softness of her hair.

Mikoto nestled closer, the warmth of his body a comforting presence. "You're lucky I like your charm," she murmured, her voice tinged with sleepiness.

Hiro kissed her forehead, his touch light but filled with unspoken promises. "I'm lucky to have you," he whispered. "You make everything better."