Chapter 3-Storm of Darkness
Naruto was not feeling his usual self for the past couple of days since he let the Halfling of a Ring Bearer get away from him and the army of Uruk-hai dispatched to capture the Hobbit. The nights of sleep were not pleasant in any means of the word, as he had felt Hinata's pain in knowing something painful, but she wouldn't tell him, and looked so sad at whatever the source of the pain was without telling the Namikaze about it. The fact it was causing his mate to suffer had made is blood boil when he woke up and Naruto was aching to let his frustration out on something or someone.
The feeling came to a boiling point when Hinata, in his dream state had told him what was going to happen in a few Months time, and nearly sent Naruto into a frenzy in their dream world.
The Hyuuga Elders had put his lovely Hinata-chan into a political marriage with a man, who was practically old enough to be the girl's Grandfather, and was of high standing influence within the Fire Daimyo's Court. The idea behind it was to sire a child with the old man in exchange for some influential backing that would give them better graces with Fire Country's Feudal Lord. Not only that, but the Hyuuga Elders had planned to use a very special Cage Bird Seal designed just for this sort of thing, then properly teach the elderly man, who was also sexist pig, how to activate it, and make the Hyuuga woman submit should she ever get reluctant to obey any wish he desired.
It didn't help that Theodred, the son of the King of Rohan was the spitting image of that old man when younger from what Hinata saw of the picture she was shown of what he looked like in his youth, and what he looked like today. Naruto had never seen his future mate so upset, saying she hated her Father for letting this happen, hating the Hokage, who was being spineless in stopping it because it was in Tsunade's words "the way of politics that must be respected", and being denied the chance to be with the one she loved. No one was supportive of Hinata's pain, except perhaps the Konohamaru Corps., who still idolized Naruto despite everything that happened upon hearing the death of the "Last Uchiha", and how the Leaf had made the Namikaze a wanted man with a huge bounty on his head for killing the last Uchiha.
Naruto could only smirk at that expected news, as he figured Tsunade would sign off on it, as she had not only inherited the bigot Councils, who slowly drained power from the title of Hokage over the years from the late Sandaime, but lacking of the spine to take it back, and fight to do things her own way. Jiraiya was no better from what Naruto learned from Hinata, as the perverted fool continued to be perverted around women, and use his title of Toad Sannin to occasionally get laid with some two-bit hooker.
Shaking his thoughts from that, as well as how he would enjoy returning to Konoha to make them regret their actions along with saving his mate from their schemes, Naruto with the second group of Uruk-hai Saruman deployed to assist him had found Theodred, and the escort of his Rohirrim taking the young Prince back to Rohan's Capital.
Naruto's eyes glowed blood red, as he saw the image of this man, aged to the point Hinata had described her future, forced against her will. husband to be, and the mocking laughter he heard along with the pictured voice. The voice saying "She's mine now demon. Your mate is mine! And there is nothing you can do to stop me from making her my pretty little pet to ravish every time I desire. She will sire me a child of my blood and will please my body during the pregnancy. You have lost everything!" within the Namikaze's mind.
"Kill the Rohirrim around the target, but know the Prince is mine, and mine alone to destroy!" said Naruto, as he saw the Uruk-hai nod in understanding, and knew they felt his demonic energy slowly covering his body for a moment.
"Charge! Devour their flesh!" said one of the Uruk-hai, as the army of Saruman charged the Riders of Rohan, and obeyed in giving a wide space to the Prince of Rohan.
Theodred himself was surprised by this, as he cut down a few Uruk-hai that got close enough to swing a sword at when riding his mighty steed into battle, but soon found himself fighting knocked off his horse, and facing the Demon Fox Mercenary currently spinning daggers around his fingers. Theodred picked up his sword, swinging it with the skill of a Master, but even his skills were no match for Naruto's speed, strength, and agility that outmaneuvered the Prince of Rohan. Naruto relished the sound of his blades piercing Theodred's armor and flesh after jumping over the startled man not expecting the move when bringing his blade down vertically on the mercenary.
"Young Prince!" said Grimbold, as he charged on his horse to Theodred, and saw Naruto leap away while holding the daggers proudly in his hands now dripping in blood.
"He's alive for now, but not for long, and will no doubt die without medical aid even though his injuries cannot be healed no matter what medicine you give him now. The bloodline of the Rohan King is now gone," said Naruto before cleaning the blades of his daggers off on a flag bearing the mark of Rohan before motioning for the rest of the Uruk-hai to retreat now that their mission had been completed.
(Isengard-Several Days Later)
Saruman smiled evilly, as he saw his army of Uruk-hai growing with each passing day, and knew soon he would have enough to crush Rohan before sending them to strike Gondor's flank while Mordor's forces would strike from the front. However, his smile left when he turned to see the troubled angry eyes of his most useful ally Naruto, and felt a hint of concern for the young mercenary. The young man was becoming angrier as of late over something, but wouldn't say what, and while the White Wizard knew it had nothing to do with the campaign to crush Rohan...he felt it would be best to learn the reason all the same.
"You are troubled my friend," said Saruman, as he saw Naruto leaning against the wall rubbing his eyes, and trying not to let the lack of sleep show.
"Is it that obvious," said Naruto seeing Saruman nod.
"You've denied yourself several days worth of sleep," said Saruman with Naruto letting out a bitter chuckle.
"Two days of sleep actually. As for the reason...I don't feel like telling you," said Naruto seeing the White Wizard frown slightly.
"Surely, you are not having second thoughts about joining my side in this war, and the deeds done to get us this far? Does my disrespect to nature offend you in some way?" said Saruman testing the waters of Naruto's loyalty.
"No! Of course not. My feelings have nothing to do with Middle Earth, this war, you, or even Sauron for that matter. This is a personal matter," said Naruto seeing Saruman just nod somewhat understanding.
"I see. Perhaps you would like to explain it to me so I can better understand and possibly help you," said Saruman seeing Naruto's eyes glow red for a moment before letting out a sigh.
With that in mind, Naruto decided to tell Saruman everything he had learned about what was going on at his village, and what was going to happen to his mate. How this news was hurting him deeply inside and making his blood boil with rage. What Naruto didn't tell Saruman, was that the Namikaze had secretly been spending a great of his deal of time seeking answers to his problem in returning home to the Elemental Countries.
"Now do you understand?" said Naruto seeing Saruman looking at him appraisingly in thought before nodding.
"Yes. That is indeed troubling. What do you intend to do?" said Saruman once again testing Naruto for the truth.
"Isn't it obvious? I'm going to find a way to open the rift again and get back to my mate no matter what. I won't let Hinata suffer at the hands of that man old enough to be her Grandfather much less be her Great Grandfather if one pushed it in terms of age. I will do what I must," said Naruto seeing Saruman nod slightly.
"I could help you find a way Naruto," said Saruman simply.
"No. I will handle this problem on my own. Besides, you have an army to build, and look over before sending them off to crush the World of Men," said Naruto simply in return.
"Maybe later then. After Rohan is crushed beneath our feet," said Saruman seeing Naruto nod his head.
"Yes. When will the army be ready?" said Naruto deciding the topic of choice should shift away from his personal life.
"They will be ready in a few more days. When the time comes to unleash them upon Middle Earth, I want you to lead them into battle, and crush the people of Rohan for good!" said Saruman seeing some surprise on Naruto's face, but the Namikaze agreed regardless, and began walking away before stopping to look back at the White Wizard.
"Do you mind if I borrow something from the tower? I'll bring it back," said Naruto seeing Saruman raise an eyebrow at the question.
"That depends. What is it you wish to borrow from me?" said Saruman knowing there were certain things one could not simply borrow from Isengard.
"Just a chair. A simple chair," said Naruto seeing the surprise of the White Wizard.
"A chair? That's it?" said Saruman not believing for a second the mercenary just wanted a chair.
"That's it," said Naruto seeing Saruman not believing he simply wanted a chair.
"Yes. I suppose," said Saruman seeing the mercenary nod and then leave to get his chair.
Though for what the White Wizard couldn't understand.
(Fangorn Forest-2 Days Later)
The last remaining members of the Fellowship of the Ring entered the large forest area filled with wild trees rumored to possess the ability to communicate and even move from their rooted spot on the ground. They had gone in there to search for their two missing Hobbit comrades, who had been taken by large Uruk-hai force that attacked earlier, and were led by the Demon Fox Mercenary. The loss of Boromir was still playing heavily on their minds, as they lost a good ally, and friend in the eldest son of the Steward of Gondor losing the battle. They had run into the Rohirrim earlier, who told them of Saruman using his powers to poison the mind of the Rohan King, and the slaughtering of the Uruk-hai that were carrying two Hobbits with them.
At first upon seeing the pile of dead bodies, the group thought the Halflings had been killed during attack, but Aragon's tracking skills as a Ranger served him well, and had followed the trail left behind by the two Hobbits all the way to Fangorn Forest. The trees seemed to move slightly, make noises when the group neared one, and felt the tenseness of the situation get stronger the deeper they walked.
"What do you sense?" said Aragon in a whispered voice.
"He's here. The White Wizard," said Legolas making the three of them tense knowing that if Saruman was here, then there was a chance Naruto was too, and possibly strike from the shadows.
"We must strike quickly or he will put a spell on us," said Aragon readying his weapon and the other two did the same from their own arsenal.
Turning around to face the enemy, but were blinded by blinding white light, and yet they attacked knowing any hesitation would give Saruman the edge. The figure of the White Wizard knocked away the arrow, the throwing axe, and used his power to superheat Aragon's sword to make the Ranger drop it on the ground.
"You are following the trail of two young Hobbits. They past this way. The day just before yesterday. They met someone they didn't expect to see. Does that comfort you?" said the unidentified voice seeing the trio trying to shield their eyes from the blinding light.
"Who are you? Show yourself!" said Aragon knowing that if this was Saruman, then they would be dead, or imprisoned by one of the man's spells.
The figure dressed in white before them was not Saruman at all, but rather someone they had thought would never be seen again, and could not believe their eyes.
It was Gandalf. Gandalf had returned.
"It cannot be. You fell!" said Aragon seeing the man appear before them and Legolas bowing respectfully in his presence.
"Yes I did. Through fire...and water!" said Gandalf, as he recalled the battle he had with the Balrog, and the creature falling at his hands before darkness took him.
(Flashback)
The Balrog hounded Gandalf unmercifully with its dark fire on top of the cold mountain side they had battled on before lightning was summoned to the Grey Wizard's sword and thrust the blade pierced the creatures body right to its heart. The Balrog fell off the cold mountain to the hill below the top of the large mountain and left Gandalf a chance to gasp for the much needed breath in his close victory.
What the Grey Wizard didn't know, as his old spirit in being the grey Wizard left him, and began his resurrection into becoming a powerful White Wizard was the presence of Naruto below inspecting the fallen Balrog's body. He had been amazed by the battle that was just witnessed by his own eyes and knew this creature was a rare treasure that didn't deserve to be cast down like this. Before he could do anything to the now dead Balrog however, Gwaihir the Wing Lord had swooped down, and picked up the fallen Wizard before flying off to his intended destination before Naruto could do anything upon his inspection.
Casting a powerful illusion to hide his body from the massive bird, Naruto watched the great creature fly away, and waited a moment to make sure Eagle had left before he had refocused on the fallen demonic create in front of him.
"You will do nicely my new pet. Oh yes. You will be my ace in the hole for when I return home to Konoha and we will give them welcome that will shake them down to the very foundation of their souls!" said Naruto in the whispered voice, as he has a sealing tattoo connecting all the way up his arm before covering it in demonic chakra, and slammed it into the lethal injury that Gandalf made.
The demonic chakra brought the creature back to life, restarting the Balrog's heart, and different streamlines of thick crimson chakra shot out of the injury before spreading out all over the monster's body. It struggled of course, as it was now trying to fight power, which had been responsible for its resurrection, and what it felt would be imprisonment. However, the crimson chakra had stopped the Balrog from moving after connecting to its limbs, and began invading its mind to form a connection. Within moments, the Balrog was absorbed into the seals on Naruto's hand, and then the seal designs retracted to the tattoo on the upper part of his right arm to form the face of the creature there.
Oh yes, Konoha wouldn't know what hit them, and they would know the face of a true demon.
(End Flashback)
"And I've been sent back. Until my task is done," said Gandalf seeing the group smile at him knowing they now have an even greater chance.
"Gandalf," said Aragon unable to say anything else.
"Gandalf? Yes. That's what they use to call me. Gandalf the Grey," said Gandalf with Gimli saying the name again to happy to say another word.
"Its good to see you again my friend," said Aragon seeing Gandalf smiling further at them.
"I am Gandalf the White. And I have come back to you now, at the turn of the tide," said Gandalf, as he addressed them by his new rank from the Order of Wizards, and wrapped a cloak over his form to cover that part of his status to make sure Saruman's forces didn't report that fact.
The group soon mounted their respected horses, as they needed to head to Edoras to free the King of Rohan from the darkness that was now wrapped around his mind, and gather an opposing force before Saruman could complete his plan to crush the Kingdom before it was too late. As they rode, Aragon asked about Naruto, and if the now White Wizard had learned of anything about how to deal with the Demon Fox Mercenary.
Sadly, the new White Wizard of Middle Earth was still puzzled by this turn of events of Naruto's involvement in this war, and how he seemed to be out of Gandalf's reach for the moment. The man was not from their world and as such could tip the scale of things on either side of this war. Whoever had the mercenary on their side, had the power to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, and unfortunately right now...Naruto was on the side of Saruman.
At least for the moment it seemed.
"You find more cheer at a graveyard," said Gimli, as he saw the people of Edoras looking pale, thin, and old for the most part while looking at them cautiously.
The two made their way up the steps of Rohan King's Hall, though they were disarmed before they could enter it by the order of Grima Wormtongue, and had to walk in with just their wits. The only one, who actually had something use as a weapon was Gandalf's staff, which he called his "walking stick", and questioned the guards honor in wishing to remove it from his person since he was an old man.
"The courtesy of your Hall seems to have lessened as of late Théoden, King of Rohan," said Gandalf, as the doors closed behind him, and the others of the Fellowship.
"Why...should I welcome you...Gandalf...storm crow?" said Théoden, who looked like he was on his deathbed, and would die at any moment.
"A wise question my Lord. Late is the hour in which this conjurer claims to give help to us. He bring ill news and ill guests," said Grima before stepping in front of Gandalf.
"Be silent! Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth. I did not travel through fire and death to speak to a worm like yourself," said Gandalf revealing his staff to Grima, who complained to those in the room loyal to him, and told them to take the White Wizard's staff.
"Théoden. Son of Thengal. Too long have you walked lost in the shadows of your mind," said Gandalf, as he approached the man while Aragon, Legolas, and Gimli moved around him to take down Grima's guards meant to protect himself more then the King.
"I would stay right here if I was you," said Gimli, as he easily took down Grima with a booted foot on the black robed man's stomach, and glaring down at the servant of Saruman.
"I release you from your prison," said Gandalf, as he put a hand out, and had his eyes closed.
Only to hear laughter. Cruel laughter that came from the King's mouth.
"You have no power here Gandalf the Grey," said Théoden mockingly and it was then Gandalf knew that Saruman had used his powers to make the King his puppet while the man's once strong mind had been weakened by Grima.
Instantly, Gandalf removed the grayish robe, and shined the room in a bright white light with incredible power that forced the King to press his body back against his throne.
"I shall draw you Saruman as poison is drawn from a wound," said Gandalf, as he pressed his power against Saruman's hold on Théoden, and it soon became a contest of powers between the two Wizards.
"If I go then Théoden dies!" said Saruman through the King's mouth while he resisted Gandalf's power, but was pushed back roughly by his former friend's power, and felt it all the way back in Isengard.
"You did not kill me and you will not kill him," said Gandalf putting more power into his attempt to free Théoden from Saruman's control.
"Rohan is mine!" said Saruman resisting even more before the back of the King's body was pushed back harder.
"Be gone!" said Gandalf knowing Saruman's hold was weakening.
With a loud angry yell, the body Théoden rose from his throne, attempting to lash out at Gandalf, but the newly reborn White Wizard struck the King's face with his staff, and its power traveled from the man all the way to Saruman. The White Wizard of Isengard was thrown back by the force of Gandalf's strike and realized his old former friend may have surpassed him in terms of strength.
"What happened?" said Naruto helping the man up and saw the blood running down his face from the strike.
"It seems Gandalf has returned to the land of the living and is now a White Wizard like myself. King Théoden is no longer under my control," said Saruman seeing Naruto look at him in surprise for a moment.
"I see. Well that just means we'll just have to speed up our timetable in crushing Rohan sooner then later," said Naruto seeing Saruman nod slowly before going to find a means to stop the blood running down his forehead.
As for Gandalf, he recalled his powers back to him, and saw King Théoden transform from a sickly dying old man to a younger stronger King the people remembered. The people within the Hall bowed to him, as Grima looked on in horror from his downed position, all the while knowing his plans to claim Eowyn his in the end now become lost, and the mentally restored King of Rohan glaring angrily in his direction. After being thrown out of the Great Hall of Rohan onto the stone steps that lead to it, Théoden had marched down them despite his somewhat soiled appearance, and was not in the mood to hear Grima's poisoned words filled with lies. The King of Rohan moved to strike Grima down, but surprisingly Aragon stopped him, and decided that there was too much blood spilled in all of this for anymore to be spilled today.
With his chance to flee open, Grima did just that, grabbing his horse, and now riding to Isengard to seek Saruman's counsel on how to proceed next.
As for Théoden, the man could only weep at hearing the loss of his son, fighting bravely on the battlefield like his Father would, and his Father before him. When told it was the Demon Fox Mercenary, who was responsible, it made Théoden weep harder at his son's grave knowing his only child fell at the hands of such a being, and only Gandalf had remained to give comforting advice during this mourning.
When back in the Hall of Rohan, Gandalf spoke to King Théoden of the small sample of terror Saruman had inflicted on his Kingdom, and that the man needed to act before it was too late. Théoden however, did not want to risk open war with Saruman after all that had happened, and chose the course of defense rather then offense.
The only way to save his people was to take them to Helm's Deep.
(Isengard-2 Days Later)
"Théoden will not stay at Edoras. He knows its not safe for his people to stay there. They will go to Helm's Deep. It's a long dangerous path that will take many days to make, as they will have women, and children with them," said Grima, as he wiped the blood from his lips having just arrived at Isengard to speak to Saruman, and how he managed to barely survive escaping.
Naruto was far from impressed, glaring glowing red eyes at Grima, and trying to suppress his rage from getting the better of him after two more days of hearing Hinata's cries for him. How she was trying to do everything in her power short of killing herself to stop this atrocity from happening and the short list of options were almost used up.
Saruman himself smiled at this Grima's news while having ignored Naruto's foul mood to focus on the task at hand, knowing the less there was of Rohan's people, the better it was for him, and bring his side closer to victory. Walking down from his position high in the tower, the White Wizard went to the deep regions underneath Isengard to the orc Sharku, who was in charge of the Wargs, and saw they were hungry for blood.
"Send out your Warg Riders!" said Saruman, as he saw the orc smile a cruel smile, and knew that Sharku sensed the same thing about his pets.
They were hungry for the taste of Man Flesh!
(Helm's Deep-4 Days Later)
The battle with the Warg Riders sent by Saruman was not the great victory many, who had taken refuge in the great fortress thought it would be, and it had become even more devastating to hear Aragon's death. They were surprised however, to see mere days later to see Aragon riding on a horse back up the narrow path to the Fortress doors, and looked worse for ware.
"So Isengard is now empty of its army. How many?" said Théoden, who was surprised to see Aragon had survived, and able to make it here.
"Ten Thousand strong. At least," said Aragon seeing Théoden look at him with disbelief.
"Ten Thousand?" said Théoden with Aragon nodding.
"It is an army built for a single purpose. To destroy the World of Men," said Aragon simply.
(Woodland Realm)
"My Lady?" said Haldir appearing before Galadriel and saw the Elf Queen looking off in the distance.
"The army of Isengard is on the move. Its being lead to Helm's Deep led by the Demon Fox Mercenary, who has hatred in his heart, and intends to release it upon those that have taken refuge at the Fortress of Rohan. I have looked into his soul, I have seen his desires, and the ache that dwells within it for the one he loves. The pain this girl will soon face is more then either can stand and it is driving this man slowly mad with rage over not being able to save her from this darkness. He will do whatever it takes to be back in his world to be with this woman, even if it means ending ours, and letting Sauron rise again," said Galadriel seeing one of her most skilled warriors look confused by this.
"What do we do my Lady?" said Haldir seeing the Elf Queen unsure of what to do.
"Do we let those that we once called allies perish? Do we let them die a slow death while we slowly wilt away to the Undying Lands?" said Galadriel sensing Elrond feeling the same all the way in Rivendell.
The man's daughter loved Aragon with all her heart, but the Elf Lord would not allow them to be together unless the man proved himself worthy of being the King of Gondor. Galadriel showed Elrond what she had seen in Naruto's mind, seeing the woman, who in a way reminded him of Arwen, and in a way the mercenary was like Aragon. The only difference between the two was that Naruto was a demon, not by choice of course, but those instincts were fueling the man behind it to side with Saruman, and the two Elves had no doubts the White Wizard was fueling such things further with his influence.
"We must help them. Fight beside them if only for one last time before we fade away," said Elrond, as he sensed Galadriel was in full agreement, and the Elf Queen now turned to face her loyal servant.
"Take as many Elves as you can Haldir. Go to Helm's Deep and fight for those worthy of the Last Alliance between Elves and Men," said Galadriel seeing Haldir nod and set out to prepare a regiment of Elves.
(Helm's Deep-Nightfall)
Dark clouds covered the sky, as the vast army of Uruk-hai marched loudly towards the walls of the great Fortress of Rohan, and Théoden from his position could see Naruto standing on top of a rock formation. Beside him was another Uruk-hai howling with its sword out calling for blood in its own primal language, as the large army stopped staring at the opposing army behind the wall consisting of both Men, and Elves plus one Dwarf.
By this point it was starting to rain.
As for Naruto himself, he brought out the chair borrowed from Isengard, and sat down while the rain got heavier. Naruto was trying to keep his rage in check during the long march to Helm's Deep, his anger was so close to reaching the point of just transforming into his predecessor of a demon fox, and just wipe these people out. Still, the large army of Uruk-hai around him were the ones made for this, and decided to let them earn their right to existing by doing what they were bred to do.
"How fitting that it would rain. No doubt to wash the blood away we are about to spill," said Naruto taking out his pipe and began smoking out of it.
"He's here. Theodred's killer," said Théoden seeing the man sitting in that chair smoking his pipe-weed and locking glowing red eyes with him.
"He's too far out of range of the archers my King," said one of his fellow Rohirrim.
"Good. I will enjoy killing him myself with my own blade," said Théoden, as he would relish piercing the man's flesh with his sword, and ending the mercenary's life.
By this point, the Uruk-hai were stomping around in a frenzy, roaring, smashing their fists against their armored chests, and eager for blood. A single arrow was shot from the tower of the Fortress of Rohan striking an Uruk-hai impressively at the neck area where the gap was between the helmet and the armor.
"That was...interesting," said Naruto seeing it only infuriated this army of Uruk-hai more and they were now screaming for vengeance.
"So it begins," said Théoden seeing what Naruto saw.
"Time to spill blood," said Naruto raising his free hand and snapped his fingers loudly causing the Uruk-hai to yell out the battle cry to charge the enemy.
Aragon was up on the front of the wall, speaking in Elvish, and ordering them to prepare their bows with arrows while Legolas did the same while mentioning where to strike in the gaps of the armor. When the swarming mass of Uruk-hai were within range, Aragon gave the order for them to fire, and take down the almost never-ending looking army of Uruk-hai that still kept charging right over their fallen brothers. Théoden ordered a volley of arrows from his line, which fired from their positions, and taking down Uruk-hai after Uruk-hai with every arrow they had.
The Uruk-hai however, did not go down without taking a few of the enemy with them, as they fired back with arrows of their own, killing quite a few Elves, and Men with deadly accuracy. Even with the heavy losses they were suffering so far, the army of Saruman could take them while the army of Théoden could not, and each one fatally lost hurt them significantly.
"Ladders!" said Aragon in Elvish seeing the mass of Uruk-hai reach the base of the wall outside of the shooting range.
"Send them to me!" said Gimli, as he wanted to get in on the action, and Legolas was taking it all up with shooting them from a distance.
"Phase one of the plan is now complete. Now for phase two," said Naruto to himself seeing his Uruk-hai setup the ladders and engaging the enemy at close range.
Of course Naruto knew that was just the distraction.
Once the two items were set in place, then it would be time for the big surprise to be lit, and then...boom!
Théoden was far from impressed by Saruman's forces laying siege to this great Fortress of Rohan despite the initial feeling of dread he felt upon them approaching. So far, they were winning the battle, even more so with the Elves providing additional support with their forces when the battle first started, and knew the best way for them to win was to endure this siege.
"Is this it? Is this all you can conjure Saruman? An massive army that fights like rabid animals with no sense of strategy? It doesn't matter how much of a force you have, this Fortress can repel you, and your loyal demon servant," said Théoden to himself hoping Saruman had the power to hear his mocking words.
Naruto heard the King of Rohan's words though despite the storm raging down all around them and his eyes were steaming crimson. It reminded Naruto of the people in the Leaf mocking him back when growing up, thinking he couldn't win against Neji during his match in the Chuunin Exam Finals, and that he was a dumb demon that couldn't tell his head from his ass. The memories of that pain, combined with the laughter those people were having at his mate's expense continued to build within his soul, and it made his chakra slowly manifest around his body.
'Make no mistake King of Rohan, you will die, and I will relish it like I did with your son!' thought Naruto standing up from his chair, put it in the summoning scroll, and brought out his prized bo staff turned Glaive.
It was time to make some noise.
Signaling for the Uruk-hai Berserker to begin his part of the operation, Naruto walked through the line of Uruk-hai, who were giving more then enough space to let him pass, and his crimson chakra covering his body. It was easily distracting everyone, including Aragon from the torch running Uruk-hai running towards the bombs Saruman had made to blast the wall sky high, and even when the Heir to the Gondor throne finally did see what was about to happen...it was too late.
Just as Legolas, as well as a few other Elves with their bows ready to fire a line of arrows at Naruto in the hopes of killing the enemy army commander, the Uruk-hai Berserker dove into the water filled hole with the torch, and caused a massive explosion.
BOOOM!
Théoden looked on in horror from his position, as he saw the wall that held back massive enemy army at bay be destroyed by the explosive power of Saruman's bombs, and the fear from the realization setting in. Within moments, the Uruk-hai would run through the opening overpower the opposition, and eventually make their way to the heart of the Fortress to take it.
"Aragon!" said Gimli, as he saw the Uruk-hai coming through the gap, their spears drawn to repel any attack aimed at them, and leaped from above down upon the unsuspecting enemy to give his allies time to get off the ground to counter.
"Gimli!" said Aragon seeing the Dwarf getting off the wet ground with the Uruk-hai still outside the wall and Naruto now behind his friend.
Naruto had turned his Glaive into a bo staff before swinging it hard against the side of Gimli's helmeted head, which no doubt saved the Dwarf from instant death into Aragon, who caught his comrade in arms while skidding back from the impact, and then ordered the Elves to fire their arrows at the Uruk-hai entering from the other side of the destroyed wall. The arrows flew accurately, but Naruto's skills with a bo staff was even greater, as he spun the weapon to knock away the arrow, and Naruto grinning at the shocked enemy before him.
"Care to try again?" said Naruto seeing Aragon ready his sword and ordered the others to charge the group.
Naruto met Aragon halfway to the Uruk-hai with their spears out to impale the charging Elves and Men trying to repel them with the attempt. Aragon had not fought someone of Naruto's skill before much less with the style of weapon the mercenary used against him and was finding it difficult to keep up with the man in combat. Even more troubling for the Heir to the Gondor throne was Naruto using his legs in fluid motion with the bo staff to further cause injury. Some of the Elves tried to assist Aragon in battle, but the skilled mercenary took them down without skipping a beat, and continued fighting his original opponent like no one interfered. Eventually, Naruto moved too quick to stop, and landed a solid blow to Aragon's stomach with a swing of the bo staff sending him skidding back against the ground.
Naruto was ready to deliver the crushing blow to Gondor's Heir to its throne, which in turn would crush the Kingdom's future, when something inside compelled him to stop, and stare at the man once more. Looking at the gift the She-Elf Arwen, the Demon Fox Mercenary felt himself drawn to its light, seeing images assault his mind, as the visions of Aragon was given that pendant, and was reminded of Hinata. The She-Elf in all her beauty that had been hidden from Naruto during their encounter when taking Frodo to Rivendell prevented him from seeing her entirely and aside from the eyes...Arwen looked so much like Hinata. Deep within the mountains, the cries of the women, and the children filled his ears knowing that they're time in this world could soon be at an end. It brought a pain to his heart he didn't believe could even be inflicted upon his person and Naruto did not know what to do.
Don't destroy them Naruto-kun. No amount of blood spilled in the world you are in now is worth my life. They have done nothing to provoke your rage. Help them Naruto-kun. Do it for me!
Naruto's head jerked back, as if violently struck at the words he knew belonged to his mate, and dropped his weapon before grabbing his head in pain while screaming out a demonic scream of pain. The howl of it all practically stopped all the fighting on both sides, as they all stared in shock, fear, and surprise at the sight of Naruto struggling with himself. The demonic rage that fueled his heart demanded blood of his enemy be spilled, but his soul screamed out that Hinata would hate him if he butchered innocent lives just to be with her, and that was something the Demon Fox Mercenary couldn't let happen.
Aragon was surprised by this turn of events, as he scrambled to his feet, and picked up his sword while his opponent was now covered in crimson energy unlike anything he had ever seen before. He heard Naruto speaking to himself, calling out to a woman that did not exist, saying "Hinata", "my mate", and other things the Heir to the Gondor throne didn't understand. The scream of pain was unlike anything Aragon had ever heard before, as he saw Naruto was not screaming out from physical injuries, but one on another level of mentality that seemed to be beyond his comprehension, and the energy around the Demon Fox Mercenary was making the Uruk-hai very nervous.
Then again, Aragon would be lying if he said the sight before him wasn't terrifying, and make his body tremble in fear.
"By my family's ancestors. What is he?" said Théoden, as he could feel the negative energy that seemed to be felt by everyone around him too, and saw his most battle hardened of his Rohirrim tremble in fear.
Had his words come back to haunt him?
'Hinata-chan, know that no matter what happens, you are the only woman I love, and that I will do anything you ask of me regardless of what becomes of us. If this is your wish, then I will grant it, and still find a way back to you. I promised I would and I will keep it!' thought Naruto turning slightly to face the Uruk-hai looking at him nervously and now backing away from him in fear.
Letting out a yell, Naruto launched a crimson chakra arm at Uruk-hai amassed at the hole in the wall, and they were instantly wiped along with the entire line of the army behind them. Recalling his arm, Naruto kicked up his bo staff, covering it in his power, making the weapon look like it was covered in an unholy fire straight from the depths of Hell, and its user was not afraid to unleash that upon the enemy. The Uruk-hai tried to enter once again, hesitant at first from what they saw happen, but still they had orders, and they knew better then to disobey the White Wizard Saruman.
Spinning his bo staff, Naruto swung vertically upwards, which unleashed his power upon the Uruk-hai, and caused those that didn't get killed from being consumed in the crimson power to be thrown back outside the wall. The creatures on the wall abandoned their fight with the Elves to leap down to engage their traitorous commander, but they were soon struck down, and destroyed in a bloody display of violence upon being assaulted by the Demon Fox Mercenary.
"Has he gone mad?" said Gimli seeing Aragon unsure of how to respond at the sight of this carnage before them.
"Enough! I don't have time of this. Demon Style: Demonic Dome Jutsu!" said Naruto, as he went through one handed hand sign and then slammed one end of the bo staff onto the ground shooting its power into the air before spreading over the entire Fortress of Rohan reaching from the top of mountain behind him all the way to the front of the damaged wall.
The Uruk-hai tried to get through the barrier Naruto had setup, but soon those that did try were destroyed instantly by it, and could not advance like they wanted. All they could do was wait until the barrier went down, if it did at all, and then get back at Naruto for his surprising betrayal.
Slowly, Naruto receded his power before turning to face Aragon, seeing the man just stare back in awe of him, and the Namikaze knew he had some explaining to do. Walking over to the man, Naruto had to stop when Legolas was aiming an arrow at his skull, and several other Elves had done so too with some of the Men aiming their swords at him.
"Wait! Lower your weapons," said Aragon seeing Naruto's eyes that were not the blood red ones a demon possessed, but rather the blues eyes of a tortured man, and was in need of their help.
"What? Why? You saw what he's done. What he can do?" said Gimli seeing Aragon take a few steps before standing a few feet from Naruto.
"Yes I have seen. All the more reason to speak to him in a civil manner. Trust me Gimli," said Aragon seeing the Demon Fox Mercenary just look at him with those tired eyes.
"We need to talk," said Naruto simply in a tired voice with Aragon nodding.
"Yes I think we do young mercenary. What about this?" said Aragon looking at the dome of demonic energy keeping out the Uruk-hai and even the rain surprisingly enough.
"Don't worry about it. The dome I put up covers the entire Fortress with enough power to last until morning when the sun is rising," said Naruto seeing Aragon's two friends having skeptical looks on their face.
"And how can we guarantee that this 'dome' of yours will last through the night like you claim?" said Gimli suspiciously, as he didn't like being struck in the head, and sent sailing into someone he considered a friend.
"I could always take it down and let the Uruk-hai have another go at you?" said Naruto seeing the group look a little unnerved at the thought of fighting that army when they had just been given time to recover from this key moment in the battle.
"That will not be necessary," said Aragon while looking at Gimli to not provoke Naruto into doing just that.
"Théoden will not be pleased to see me considering I was the one responsible for killing his son in battle," said Naruto seeing the King of Rohan looking at him with anger in those eyes.
"Perhaps, but he will have to put that aside for now if we are to survive, and live through the night," said Aragon, as they made their way to the Hall area of Fortress of Rohan, and Naruto was indeed correct when he said Théoden would not be happy to see him.
"Aragon! Can you please tell me why you have brought this demonic entity up here rather then taking his head clean off?" said Théoden, as he had his men gather what they could to build up some kind of barrier to make up for the loss of the natural rock made one lost in the explosion.
"Naruto has something to say. Something I think we all need to hear," said Aragon, as they entered the Hall, and Naruto sat down at a nearby table after sealing his prized weapon away.
"First, I want say...that I'm sorry. Sorry for killing you son Theodred. I was ordered to by Saruman so you would continue to be his mindless puppet thanks to Grima Wormtongue. Theodred died a warrior on the battlefield. He was a true member of the Rohirrim worthy of being called your son," said Naruto seeing Théoden still looking red with anger.
"Thank you for saying that," said Théoden while keeping his anger in check at hearing it though everyone could see the King of Rohan wanted to slay this creature before him.
"Your welcome. As to why I'm here, Saruman wanted me to lead the army I've kept from advancing further to eliminate Rohan's existence, and then no doubt have them advance on Gondor next. From its King all the way down to the last child with Rohan blood in its veins is to be destroyed. Those are the orders given to the Uruk-hai outside. Grima told Saruman of the one weakness of the wall, which was the drain, and made a device when triggered by fire to have...explosive capabilities that you all saw clear as when lightning flashes in the darkness," said Naruto seeing the group around him nod.
"Why did you serve Saruman from the start? I see a man of honor in you," said Aragon, as he didn't understand Naruto at all in that matter, and the Namikaze knew this.
"Because when I first came here to your world on accident, it was Saruman the White Wizard, who found me on the steps of Isengard, and taught me what I needed to survive in this place. Where I am from Aragon, my honor demanded I pay back the debt I owe to the White Wizard at any time should he wish to call upon my services, and do what he asked of me. At the time of his helping of my person, Saruman was not your enemy, and was the noble man everyone respected back during the height of his greatness. I take my honor seriously and for that reason...I could not deny him my service for whatever side he chose for that is the nature of a mercenary," said Naruto seeing Aragon understanding on some level what he was talking about.
"What exactly happened out there to make you act like you did?" said Aragon, as he had been most fortunate to live through that, and it was nothing short of a miracle that Naruto didn't finish him off.
"Do you love her Aragon? Do you love Arwen?" said Naruto seeing the man tense at the question.
"What does your question have to do with his own?" said Legolas seeing Naruto taking off his straw hat before letting out a tired sigh.
"I ask because his answer is the same as my own for my mate waiting for me back home in my world. That pendant you where, it made me see things about your relationship that reminded me of my own love, who is strong, and fierce when it comes to protecting their loved ones. I could hear her plea to not do what I had set out to do and to not let my rage over what is happening in my own world affect my mind here," said Naruto seeing the Men around him nod in understanding.
"This woman means more to you then your own life," said Gimli seeing Naruto nod.
"She is my life Master Dwarf. She is to me what the Ring of Power is to Sauron only on a more purer level. I cannot live without her. If you knew everything about my life up until now, you would understand my rage, my pain, and why I wish to return home to the one I love," said Naruto leaning back in his chair feeling so tired right now.
"Would you tell us? To help better understand your situation. Maybe we can help you get home," said Aragon knowing that Naruto could be a more permanent ally after this in exchange for returning home.
"Very well. This is the truth of my life. Everything," said Naruto, as he told them about his world, the Elemental Countries, the use of chakra, the Kyuubi, the sealing done upon him by his own Father to the protect the village, and the abuse that followed by the very people of the village despite his Father's dying wish.
He told them everything.
Even Théoden could not hate the man before him knowing that Naruto had suffered so much for something that wasn't his fault.
"I had no idea. Such madness," said Aragon seeing Naruto nodding his head.
"Yes. Madness. Now my future mate is being forced into an arranged marriage, with a man several times her age, and all for political reasons. None of you have experienced such a thing, but I know that if you did, rage would fill your heart, and would do just about anything to stop such a thing from happening," said Naruto seeing Aragon admit such a pain was indescribable.
"What will you do now?" said Aragon seeing Naruto pondering over what to do next.
"I do not know. What I do know is that I cannot serve Saruman anymore. I have paid back my debt to him," said Naruto seeing hope in the eyes of the people around him.
"You could join us in battling Sauron," said Aragon knowing that Naruto could be a powerful ally against the Dark Lord.
"I agree. With your help, this war will be over soon, and we can focus on getting you back to your world," said Gimli seeing Naruto smile slightly under the cloth the man wore to hide his facial features.
"Thank you. Both of you. But I will not serve either side. This war between you and the Dark Lord is you path in life. Mine is elsewhere. I will not be your enemy, but I cannot be your ally either in this, and risk unleashing a power that will kill all who touch it. This power destroys friend and foe alike. I will not be a living weapon to be used for this war. I will help you tomorrow when the sun rises in the next few hours, as well as destroy the army I left here, and pay Saruman a visit. But I will do nothing more after that to shift things on either side. When I leave your service, the sides will be even, and the war will be waged with near equal strength. The side that wins will be the one who wants it more then the other," said Naruto seeing the look of disappointment on their faces, but at least they had some hope to last through the night, and into the next morning with their former enemy turned temporary ally to make that happen.
"What do we do about Saruman? The White Wizard could breed more of these creatures even if we stop the ones here," said Théoden seeing the group realize he was right, but Naruto merely smiled, and it was clear the mercenary knew something they didn't.
"Saruman should know not to fool with nature. I assume you know what Isengard looked like before he began to make the Uruk-hai?" said Naruto seeing Legolas and even King Théoden himself nod.
"The place was alive with trees and life. Now there are only orcs and death," said Legolas seeing Naruto nod again.
"Yes. From what I recall from the things I've heard during my years traveling throughout Middle Earth, I know that nature can take on a life of its own, and can be rather vengeful when given the right...motivation," said Naruto eyeing the Elf and saw the Master Archer realize that Saruman was about to be attacked by something connected to nature itself.
Without the mass of Uruk-hai at Isengard, the great Tower Fortress was almost empty, easy to take with the right force, and Naruto knew of such a force that would make the White Wizard pay for his disrespect for nature.
"We should pay Saruman a visit after the battle here at Helm's Deep is over," said Aragon knowing the sight of the White Wizard defeated would be something to long remember.
"You are assuming we will win. Even if we rebuild a strong enough wall, the Uruk-hai outside will overpower it, and if not the wall then the gate will be breached in its place," said Théoden knowing that while the wood of the gate was strong, a mass of Uruk-hai could smash through it, and take the Fortress that way.
"And that King of Rohan, is where I come in, and give you the edge in battle. Tomorrow morning, I will slice through the enemy, and help you attain your victory," said Naruto putting his hat on his head and got out of his chair.
"Are you sure you can that Master Namikaze?" said Gimli seeing how tired Naruto was now would prefer his new temporary ally to fight for them at full strength.
"I can. Besides, the sun will be rising within the hour," said Naruto seeing the alarmed look on Théoden's face, who went outside to order what was already being done, and have his forces try creating a means to halt the Uruk-hai from advancing.
"Gandalf will be here soon. He said so to me before leaving to find the King's cousin," said Aragon seeing Naruto thinking for a moment.
"Good. I will attack from the front. Gandalf attacks from behind with his army. We just have to meet in the middle," said Naruto knowing that the others could defend the wall from their position while he took on the thick of the army outside before new White Wizard appeared.
"Let us ride out there with you and meet them," said Aragon with Théoden coming in to hear that part.
"For what? For glory?" said Théoden simply.
"For Rohan. For your people," said Aragon seeing the King of Rohan look on in thought.
"In the event this fails, is there anyway for the women, and the children to escape from the Uruk-hai?" said Naruto knowing that nothing should be left to chance.
"There is a serious of passageways that lead into the mountains, but even if they did, the Uruk-hai are too many, and they wouldn't get far," said one of the bearded men of the King's Rohirrim.
"The sun is rising," said Gimli seeing it from the window.
"Send word for the women and children to head for the mountain pass. And barricade the entrance!" said Aragon knowing that the more things blocking the enemy from reaching those people the better.
"The Horn of Hammerhead will be heard in the deep. One last time!" said Théoden with Gimli saying "YES!" at the idea of making such a wonderful thing be heard during such a battle.
"For what its worth. I'm glad I get to fight beside you Aragon. I have...forgotten what it was like to embrace friendship," said Naruto shaking the man's hand.
"I understand. Good luck to you in battle," said Aragon knowing that Naruto would clear them a path for them to ride out and would be overwhelmed.
"You too. And do try to stay alive Aragon. I would like to see you one day become the King of Gondor it desperately needs and see you marry that wonderful woman who has inspired you to do great things," said Naruto seeing Aragon smile and knew the She-Elf did indeed do that for him.
"Me too," said Aragon before seeing Naruto walk out of the room and bringing out his weapon of choice for battle.
Hopefully not his last battle.
No sooner had Naruto made it down to the damaged wall did barrier stop existing and the Uruk-hai again began to charge forward seeing their chance to spill the blood of the one responsible for the betrayal they endured. Their former commander however, didn't give any of them the desired chance to have it, as he moved ruthlessly through them with his bo staff, and shifted it to the Glaive before channeling chakra into it so the blade would cut through all the Uruk-hai around him like a hot knife through butter.
By this point, Aragon, Legolas, Gimli, and Théoden along with the rest of the Rohirrim able to ride out on horses charged out of the gates cutting through every foe in their path. Above on the massive hill to the left of the massive army of Uruk-hai appeared Gandalf with Eomer along with a vast army of Rohirrim on horses before they charged down the hill. The light of the sun rising shined brightly behind them, which blinded the Uruk-hai at the ready with spears, and gave the horse riders the means to avoid being skewered.
"Rasengan!" said Naruto, as he shoved the orb of charka into an Uruk-hai, and caused him to explode everywhere.
When the battle was officially over, all the Uruk-hai were destroyed, and the victors of it now stained in the blood of their enemies. As the reality of the situation set in, Naruto looked over at Gandalf, and saw the man looking at him with calculating eyes. It was clear the White Wizard didn't know what to do with him just yet, nor did anyone else despite what was spoken earlier the others, and the King of Rohan in aiding them to a point.
"From the looks of things, you had a hand in Rohan's survival, and saving more lives then expected given the circumstances," said Gandalf seeing the Demon Fox Mercenary nod, as that was the case, and knew many of the defenders of this place would have died had it not been for his sudden shift in allegiances.
"You could say that. I've already spoken with Aragon about it along with Théoden. I'm not your enemy anymore," said Naruto seeing Gandalf smile now like he was expecting it.
"No. Perhaps you never were. Its hard to say," said Gandalf seeing Naruto put away his weapon.
"You know this victory is, but a small stepping stone to defeating Sauron, and not to be taken lightly," said Naruto knowing that Sauron knew that the loss to Rohan at Helm's Deep would only infuriate the Dark Lord.
"Yes. The Battle for Helm's Deep is over. The Battle for Middle Earth is about to begin," said Gandalf gravely, as he along with the others walked up the hill to see the thunderous form of Mordor behind the mountains that closed off the volcanic area of Middle Earth from the rest of the realm to see the orange fiery glow that raged behind them.
(A/N: YAY! I updated again. Not easy in writing this. Believe me. Hope you enjoyed it. Until next time...PEACE!)