Introduction

In the world of Naruto, Sasuke Uchiha's return to the Hidden Leaf Village was a pivotal moment. However, what if Sasuke never returned after his initial departure? This speculative scenario examines the consequences of Sasuke's absence on the village, his personal relationships, and the overall impact on the series' trajectory.

The Impact on the Hidden Leaf Village

Without Sasuke in the Hidden Leaf Village, the dynamics of the village would undoubtedly change. Leaf Shinobi might experience a significant shift in their mindset towards accepting Sasuke. Some might harbor trust issues, making it challenging for him to gain acceptance among the villagers. In his absence, Sasuke would likely draw away potential enemies due to being the last Uchiha and a holder of the Sharingan. This might protect the village from minor attacks orchestrated by individuals looking to target him. However, Sasuke’s status as an official shinobi might be questionable, leading him to undertake many self-appointed missions to uncover information on Kaguya, the threat that haunted his family.

Sasuke’s Missions and Discoveries

Due to his absence, Sasuke would have had ample space and time to conduct his missions, potentially leading to more significant discoveries. For instance, his search for Kaguya’s palace might have been expanded, which would have unexpected consequences. If he hadn't explored enough to locate the palace, the village could have been attacked, leading to Naruto’s kidnapping by Momoshiki and the subsequent danger that Sasuke wouldn’t have been aware of. This scenario is especially critical given that Sasuke’s absence would also affect his ability to rescue Naruto, potentially resulting in Naruto’s untimely death.

Sarada’s Training and Development

If Sasuke had never returned, his relationship with Sarada would have taken a more personal and close bond. Sarada would have trained with her father at a younger age, potentially developing her skills as a shinobi earlier. Her personality might also take a stronger influence from her father, unlike Boruto who awakened the Sharingan at a younger age. Additionally, Sarada’s journey to awaken the Sharingan might have been delayed without Sasuke’s early intervention.

Final Reflections

Even without Sasuke’s return, his continued absence and dedication to uncovering the mysteries surrounding Kaguya would have had a profound impact on the series. His investigations and discoveries would have provided the village with valuable information and possibly prevented major incidents. However, the long-term effects on his personal life and Sarada’s development would have been significantly altered. In the end, Sasuke’s return was more than just a plot device; it was a turning point that shaped the entire Naruto universe.