Chapter 9 : The Moon Emerges

14 Years In The Past

Born on a blissfully cold, dark, moon-etched night, he entered this world alongside a twin brother. The inky sky was adorned with a tapestry of shimmering stars, and the chilling breeze carried a sense of magic and destiny. One child was graced with beautiful auburn red hair that gleamed like a fiery crown atop his head, while the younger possessed a mane of raven-black locks, both of them bearing a distinct birthmark in different places. Their mother, a vision of ethereal beauty, smiled through a veil of exhaustion as she gazed upon her newborn sons.

The forest that cradled their homestead was warmer than usual, despite the thick blanket of snow that covered the ground. It was as though nature itself recognized the significance of this night. The wind whispered a haunting yet soothing melody, carrying with it fragments of forgotten memories, unspoken hopes, and dreams still waiting to be realized.

But, as the world often proves unkind, this peaceful moment was short-lived. The tranquility of the night was shattered when her husband, Lord Dotō, abruptly thrust open the chamber doors, a scowl befitting a man unhinged contorting his features.

In an instant, their mother's radiant smile vanished, replaced by a look of apprehension and concern. She instinctively lowered her gaze, shielding her children from the tempestuous storm brewing before her.

"Woman, I asked for an heir," Doto's voice seethed through clenched teeth, his impatience palpable.

"My love, I have given you two beautiful sons," she replied with timidity, her voice but a whisper.

Doto's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the children. "Black hair... it seems the demon has influenced my child, but it matters not," he thought aloud. "You have given me weakness, competition. I will raise and provide for the first," his words cut through the air, a dagger of cruelty. Even the midwife and the servants stood in stunned disbelief, unprepared for the harshness of his next words, "The second can starve for all I care. Cast him out into the world."

He took one final look at the helpless infants before him, his gaze devoid of sentiment, only assessing strength and vulnerability within his bloodline, a crack in his once unassailable family. His wife could not meet his gaze, tears welling up in her eyes, and the servants, though powerless to intervene, felt their hearts heavy with pity for both the forsaken child and the woman who had borne him.

Throughout the ordeal, the elder of the twins cried relentlessly, his wails echoing through the chamber. In stark contrast, the younger child did not shed a single tear, nor did he utter a whimper. Observing the youngest's remarkable silence, his mother could only hope that he possessed the wisdom to keep quiet.

One of the lady servants, moved by maternal compassion, carefully took the abandoned child despite the desperate pleas of the mother. The older women lovingly swaddled the newborn in blankets, her heart aching for the innocent soul who had been thrust into this harsh world.

Doto then turned his attention to the surviving child, the one whose cries rang out with an unrelenting intensity. His expression shifted, a grotesque grin replacing his scowl. "HA! Do you hear the lungs on this one! Yes, this is truly the child destined to succeed me!" he proclaimed, his eyes locked on the crimson hair that adorned his firstborn's head.

It was believed to be a good omen when an infant cried loudly – a sign of strength and the will to be heard above all. Doto, in that moment, felt reassured in his choice.

He then turned to his wife, "Nisshoku, the blessing you've bestowed upon me won't be forgotten... I shall name him Tsuki." The weight of his decision hung heavy in the room, a stark division that would forever alter the course of their family's fate.

Overtime, Nisshoku, the once radiant and loving mother, could not bear the weight of her husband's cruel decision and the loss of her younger son. As the years passed, she descended into a deep and seemingly unending depression. The joy that had once shone in her eyes had long since faded, replaced by a persistent shadow of sorrow that clung to her like a shroud. It began to even eclipse her son.

She withdrew from the world, often losing herself in long hours of solitude. Her beautiful smile became a distant memory, and her laughter had vanished entirely. Her days were filled with melancholy, as she clung to the memory of her lost child, praying for his well-being and safety every night.

For years, she hoped against hope that someday, by some miraculous turn of fate, she would find her abandoned son and reunite with him. The emptiness left by his absence gnawed at her heart, and she clung to the belief that her boy was out there somewhere, waiting for her.

Despite her despair, Nisshoku's perseverance was remarkable. She reached out to every source, sought every lead, and called upon the gods in fervent prayer, beseeching them to reunite her with her lost child. Her faith never wavered, and her unwavering hope served as a beacon of love and determination in the face of adversity.

But as the years passed without any sign or news of her abandoned son, the relentless stress took a toll on her fragile health. Her once-glowing complexion grew pallid, her eyes lost their sparkle, and her vitality slowly drained away. The weight of her heartache and longing was simply too much for her to bear.

One fateful day, as she lay in her chamber, her frail body succumbed to the overwhelming stress, and her heart finally gave out. Nisshoku passed away, her spirit broken by the years of longing and despair, leaving a legacy of profound sadness and a mother's love that could not be extinguished by the cruelty of fate.

Her death marked the end of her tireless quest to find her lost son, and it was a stark reminder of the enduring pain that can be inflicted by the harshest decisions of fate and the relentless passage of time.

Present Day

Land of Snow

In a secluded room nestled within the grandeur of the family estate, you see a red hair teen sitting in a silent meditation. The flickering candles cast eerie, shifting shadows on the stone walls. His mother's recent passing had left an indelible mark on him, turning the once-vibrant and jovial young man into a shadow of his former self.

Tsuki had always been known for his infectious laughter and zest for life, but the loss of his mother had stolen that light from his eyes. His spirit had grown heavy, and the joyful twinkle had given way to a somber, distant gaze.

As Tsuki sought solace in his meditation, the heavy wooden door creaked open, and a women named Fubuki entered with quiet steps. She has green eyes and pink spiky hair that stuck out of two holes at the top of her grey helmet, reminiscent of pig-tails. She has small circular dark pink eyebrows and much like her team-mates, she wore Chakra Armour. Fubuki bore a look of concern mixed with sympathy as she approached the boy. "Master Tsuki," she began in a hushed voice, "Lord Dotō requests your presence in his study. He says it's a matter of great importance."

Tsuki's eyes slowly opened, and he met Fubuki's gaze with a distant nod. Rising from his meditation, he followed her through the labyrinthine hallways of the castle, his mind filled with curiosity about the pressing matter his father wished to discuss.

As he made his way through the snowy village, the picturesque scene that unfolded before him was nothing short of breathtaking. The pristine white snow covered the cobbled streets and thatched roofs, turning the entire village into a winter wonderland. Snowflakes gently fell from the sky, creating a soft, almost magical atmosphere.

The children of the village, bundled up in colorful winter coats and scarves, ran merrily through the streets, their laughter ringing like chimes in the crisp, cold air. They crafted snowmen and engaged in friendly snowball fights, their rosy cheeks glowing with the joy of the season. Tsuki couldn't help but smile at their exuberance, their youthful energy a stark contrast to his own somber demeanor.

The village itself was a work of art, a quaint and idyllic hamlet nestled amid the snow-covered hills. The buildings, constructed of timber and stone, were adorned with wreaths of holly and flickering candles in the windows. Smoke curled from the chimneys, filling the air with the comforting scent of wood-burning stoves and hearth fires.

The village square, the heart of the community, featured a charming wooden gazebo adorned with festive decorations. Residents and visitors alike gathered there, sharing stories, sipping on warm spiced cider, and enjoying the seasonal festivities. The local shops displayed colorful wares, from hand-knit scarves to delicate, handcrafted ornaments, each item adding to the village's holiday charm.

As always Tsuki couldn't help but be captivated by the serene beauty of his snowy village and the warm, close-knit community that thrived there but despite everything, it served as a reminder that he lost his mother. He lost the one thing that keeps him warm in the vast of snow.

Dotō Kazahana Study

Dotō's study was a room steeped in history, lined with bookshelves that held the accumulated knowledge of generations. He stood by a large oak desk, a stern expression on his face. As his son entered, the weight of his father's gaze bore down upon him.

Tsuki is a tall teen with a muscular build and pale skin complexion. He possesses long, spiky red hair with black tips that he keeps in a ponytail. His most notable feature is his yellow eyes, black pupils and a cracked pattern in the irises. He also has red markings resembling flames on the top left side of his forehead and the bottom right of his chin. His appearance is profoundly majestic and dignified just like his mother.

Tsuki is wearing a purple-and-black hexagonal patterned nagagi kimono and black umanori-styled hakama pants tied with a white uwa-obi. He carries a all white Katana at his waist. He bowed towards his father.

"Tsuki," Dotō said in a voice tinged with both disappointment and authority, "I have watched you wallow in your own self misery since your mother's passing. You've withdrawn from the world, and suffer in silence. Pathetic. You bring shame to my name boy and I believe it's time to channel your grief into something more productive."

Tsuki's eyes met his father's, a glimmer of anger in them. "What do you have in mind, Father?" he inquired, his voice quieter than in his days of carefree laughter.

Dotō paused, his gaze steady, before continuing. "Your mother, Nisshoku, didn't want me to tell you but you must know of your younger brother's fate."

Tsuki's eyes widened in surprise. "Brother? You mean I have a brother?"

Dotō nodded stoically. "Yes, a twin brother. When you were both born, I made a choice, one that has weighed heavily on my heart ever since. I ordered your younger brother to be cast out. At first I believed he was dead but..."

Tsuki's heart pounded in his chest as he absorbed this revelation. The brother he had long believed to be lost was, in fact, alive. Emotions swirled within him, but a deep resentment simmered just beneath the surface.

Dotō continued, "I have learned through my network of spies that he survived and is living in the Water Country. He wields a weapon that can bring the world to it's knees. Now, Tsuki, I am entrusting you with a mission of utmost importance."

Tsuki's expression grew more determined as he listened intently to his father's words.

Doto's voice carried a heavy weight. "You will travel to the Wave Country, where your brother resides. It is not merely a quest for reunion but a test. You must determine if he is worthy of our family's name. If he is strong, loyal, and willing to pledge his allegiance to our cause, then he will be welcomed back into the fold but if he refuses kill him and take his blade."

As Tsuki processed the gravity of the mission, a deep well of resentment began to form within him. He couldn't help but connect the dots – his mother's descent into depression and her eventual demise had been spurred by the loss of his twin. He held the belief that it was his brother's very existence that had torn their family apart.

Tsuki clenched his fists, his voice low and filled with resentment. "Father, I will go to Wave Country, but not for the sake of reuniting our family. He will pay.. It was because of him that led to Mother's downfall."

Dotō scoffs, but he nodded in acknowledgment of Tsuki's feelings. "Do you must, but I need that blade. Don't fail me Tsuki, I will not tolerate failure."

Tsuki nodded in acknowledgement

Dotō met his son eyes then explained, "Remember to keep this in mind, since we took over Takigakure and with the death of their Daimyo, the other Great Five Villages has been drying out our trade routes, causing fear and unrest among our civilians and Nobles. We're running low on resources so this an opportunity for you to prove your loyalty to our family and to regain your honor, which has dimmed with your mother's passing."

Tsuki's resolve flickered back to life, and a spark of determination returned to his eyes. "I will take on this mission, Father," he affirmed, a newfound sense of purpose blooming within him.

The two men continued to discuss the details of the mission, their voices carrying the weight of a shared commitment to justice and honor. As Tsuki left his father's study, he couldn't help but feel that the mission might serve as a path to healing and redemption, a way to honor his mother's memory.


Land of Wave

The weight of the countless lives he had taken, the ghostly faces of the bandits he had slain, and the accusing voices of the dead haunted his restless sleep.

In his dreams, the people he cut down over the course of his life surrounded him, their eyes hollow and filled with hatred. They pointed their accusing fingers at him, their voices a cacophony of curses and blame."Monster!" they cried, their words echoing through his subconscious.

You took our lives!

Killer!

Demon!

Monster!

As the accusations intensified, Naruto found himself falling into a seemingly endless pit of darkness. The abyss was a manifestation of his guilt, a bottomless chasm that threatened to consume his very soul. It was a void of despair, and he was trapped within, unable to escape.

Suddenly, in the soft, pre-dawn light, Naruto's eyes slowly fluttered open, he realized he's in a cold sweat. He is laying on a simple straw mat, the forest tapestry illuminated by the faint glow of a single paper lantern, casting delicate shadows on the leaves above. With a silent grace that came naturally to a warrior, he rose from his slumber.

Stepping onto the cool, grass-covered floor, he approached the green bushes that separated him from the world outside. As he slid the greenery to the side, the breathtaking view of a tranquil lake greeted him. The water was a mirror, reflecting the hues of the emerging sunrise, with delicate ripples breaking the surface as fish danced beneath.

With a sense of reverence, the teen made his way to the edge of the lake. He knelt beside the shore, his reflection merging with the ethereal beauty of the water. Closing his eyes, he entered a state of meditation, seeking inner calm and clarity.

The forest surrounding the lake whispered in hushed tones as the samurai delved deep into his thoughts. The gentle rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the distant sound of a waterfall provided a serene backdrop to his meditative journey.

Moments stretched into minutes, and his mind became as still as the glassy surface of the lake. In the tranquility of this natural sanctuary, he found solace, a connection to the world, and the strength he would need for the challenges ahead.

After his meditation, Naruto rose and approached the water's edge once more. He splashed the refreshing, cool liquid onto his face, awakening his senses to the world around him. With a practiced hand, he began the meticulous task of grooming himself. Naruto's armor, weapons, and attire were all meticulously cared for, each piece a testament to his commitment to his craft.

As he fastened his armor and secured his katana, he glanced out over the lake once more. The colors of the sunrise had fully bloomed, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and gold. With a final, deep breath, he stepped away from the water's edge, ready to face the day with a heart as serene as the lake he had meditated beside.

Naruto ventured through the enchanting forest on his quest to the neighboring village, he unexpectedly crossed paths with a familiar face. It was Haku, a young girl from the village whom he had encountered only once before. She was gathering herbs in the forest, her hair adorned with delicate flowers.

Their eyes met, and a gentle smile graced Haku's lips. Haku admired his appearance, Naruto is a tall teen with a lean muscular build, fair skin, silver eyes, long spiky black hair with red tips that he kept in a ponytail and his flame like birth mark on his face.

He's wearing a maroon haori with kanji of dragon on the black over a black nagagi kimono with a black umanori-styled hakama, a pair of zōri with red straps and white tabi socks, with his black katana, Enma, carried at the left side of his waist, conventional to most samurai.

She approached Naruto, her voice as melodic as the forest's own serenade. "Good morning Samurai-kun, what brings you to our forest today?" she inquired.

Naruto, happily surprised by the encounter, replied, "Good morning Haku-san, I'm heading to the neighboring village to get supplies and weapons to protect the people of Wave from the Gato his bandits. What are you doing so deep in the woods again?"

Haku, still keeping her cover, explained that she was again collecting herbs for medical reasons, known for her potent healing brews. Feeling a connection to this gentle and resourceful girl, Naruto suggested that they walk together to the neighboring village, their steps falling in sync.

As they journeyed side by side, Naruto and Haku's conversation flowed effortlessly. They spoke of their shared love for the forest, its breathtaking beauty, and the stories it held. Haku told Naruto about her dreams and aspirations, revealing a fierce determination beneath her gentle exterior.

Overtime, their lighthearted conversation soon took a more flirtatious turn. Naruto couldn't help but admire Haku's resilience and charm.

"I must say your eyes," he said with a soft grin, "is a reflection of the fire that dances beautifully within your soul. I admire the way you see the world, I wish to think like you one day." He said honestly.

Haku blushed and playfully retorted, "You must say this to all the girls you meet."

Naruto chuckled at the bait, "Your attempt to trick me into talking about other girls is pathetic" Haku now caught, started laughing as well.

Their laughter filled the forest, echoing through the trees. With every step, their connection grew stronger, and it became evident that their meeting in the forest was more than mere chance.

As the village came into sight, Naruto and Haku's hearts had forged a bond as strong as any katana blade. The journey had not only been about gathering supplies but also about discovering kindred spirits in each other. And amidst the forest's embrace, their laughter and shared secrets were the beginning of a story that held the promise of blossoming like the flowers in Haku's hair.

Stopping in front of the entrance of the small town, that action causing Naruto to look curiously at the girl. "What's wrong Haku?" He asked confused

Haku's expression looked solemn for a moment before she smiled happily again, "I'm sorry Naruto-kun, I have you go back home." She beating herself internally, she feels that someone like her don't deserve happiness, since she's taken the lives of innocence before.

Naruto catching that expression decided not to intrude and nodded in acceptance, he then hugged her. Catching Haku in surprise, she then slowly reciprocated the hug. Putting her chin in his neck, internalizing his smell. "I hope I get to see you again." Her eyes widened then threaten to shed tears. She smiled happily and kissed Naruto on the cheek.

"I'm sure we will..." Haku said hiding her sadness and began walking away.

Naruto didn't know why but that last statement felt ominous.


Temirchi Village

Soon enough, Naruto arrive in the town called Temirchi. A town that is renowned for the amazing blacksmiths that it had produced over the centuries. As the boy follows the directions he remember from the last time he visited, he can see that the town is filled with old, outdated but very well-kept buildings and houses, which could be at least two centuries old, Islamic-style architects.

Smoke fills the air as blacksmiths work on their craft from every corner and every other building. As Naruto continues on, the warrior can see fishing boats returning to the dock from the sea with rough and dark waters pushing the small vessels around. The atmosphere of the town is quiet with no one in sight, which could be because the pair is passing through the back alleyway of the town, avoiding major roadways not wanting to attract attention.

As he walks through the back passageways, Naruto notices a white flag with a snow flakes and a kanji of snow embedded on it. His eyes widened at the familiar emblem and he took out one of the last things left by his father.

7 Years In The Past

Land of Iron

In the snow-covered country located among three mountains called the Three Wolves, the grand master swordsman, Mifune, sat down with a solemn expression in the dimly lit dojo. Opposite him, a young Naruto, the son of his deceased best friend, waited anxiously. The room was filled with the scent of incense, and the flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows on the wooden walls.

With a deep sigh, Mifune began, "Naruto, I have something important to share with you." His voice held a blend of sadness and reverence. "I'm sorry to burden you with this information so soon after your father's death but you need to know. You were not born into the family.. You were found as an infant, abandoned, in near death state and it was your father, Mukai who had discovered you."

Naruto's eyes widened with shock, and he struggled to process this revelation. "Abandoned? But... who are my real parents?"

Mifune looked grim but continued, "He found you floating in a small boat in the middle of the lake, wrapped in a cloth. As he took you in, we noticed something on that cloth." He reached into a wooden chest, pulling out a carefully preserved piece of fabric.

Intrigued, Naruto studied the cloth, his heart racing. Etched into the fabric was a family kanji, a mark that signified lineage and heritage. It was the only clue to his true origins.

Mifune explained, "This kanji is your only link to your real family, Naruto. Your parents, your bloodline, and your history all rest in the mystery of this symbol. We had hoped to one day unravel the secrets it held and reunite you with your true roots."

Naruto's eyes welled with tears as he traced the kanji with his fingertips. He was overwhelmed with a mix of emotions – the pain of abandonment, the mystery of his heritage, and the love he had received from the man who had raised him as his own.

Mifune placed a comforting hand on Naruto's shoulder. "I want you to know that the cloth and the kanji do not define who you are. You are a skilled and honorable young man, a reflection of the values we hold dear. And while we may not know the origins of the cloth, we know the strength of your character."

Naruto nodded, his heart heavy but grateful for the love and guidance he had received. The mystery of his true family was a path he felt compelled to follow, but he knew he would always carry with him the lessons and legacy instilled by the man who had raised him as his own, the Blood Samurai, Mukai Kohinata.

Present Day

Naruto eyes began to tremble "What are Snow Country flags doing here?" He asked out loud. Did they take over this village? Is his family here? Did the man that owe him a favor dead? There are many things Naruto needed the answer to. Shaking his head from the many thoughts he continued his trek.

Finally, he reached the location of a blue and brown blacksmith shop with a large sliver ax as the sign which read perfect craft blacksmithing. As he entered through the back door and proceed down the stairway until Naruto came across an old rusty iron door. He knocked on the door and a tiny window within the door opened, relieving a pair of bright green eyes.

"Who's there?" asked the person behind the door, trying to mask their voice as to not be noticed.

"The Kuroi Kenshi" he replied

"If you are that person, what is the password?" The person behind the door remarked.

Naruto took a deep breath and replied, "The Lord has given us all we need, we just have to take it"

There was a moment of silence before the door opened, making a loud and long screeching sound as it did. Behind the door was a girl in a brown robe that covered her entire body, only showing off her bright green eyes. She ushered Naruto through the door before closing it. The pair walked down the hallway, which was poorly lit by candles running down the walls of the hallway. They soon arrived at a wooden door.

The woman knocked on the door and mumble something that sounded like a foreign but Naruto wasn't sure. The door opened. Inside were a group of people, at least forty of them all dressed in the same robe.

They surrounded Naruto, as one of them approached him and removed the hood of his robe to relieve the face of an old man.

His skin was pale, his face was wrinkled and old, with a scar running down the left side of his eye. And despite looking like he was in his mid-seventies, the hair on the old man was shiny, jet black. The man grabbed Naruto's hands and ushered both of them to sit.

"You must be the Kuroi Kenshi, welcome back." The old man remarked. "My name is Shamak Bukhara, and it is a pleasure to meet you, young samurai, continued the old man as he bowed his head to Naruto. "We desperately need your help."

Naruto nodded, "Well I need your help as well. If I help you all can you lend me supplies." The old man nodded in agreement.

"We are being slaughtered daily and our people are dying." Continued Shamak, as tears flow from his eyes.

"Explain to me what is going on here, It wasn't too long since I been here. The man I met, must've died in the attacks." replied Naruto a bit sadly.

"It started a few months ago. Snow Country, came in with their ships, massive ones. Now we are accustomed to countries, sending a large group of soldiers to our shores. After all, we are blacksmiths and they are going for business. But this time was different. They came in and conquered our town. No warning, no negotiations, nothing"

Shamak continued as he began shaking.

"They told us our town is now a Snow stronghold and we are now part of the Dotō kingdom. At first, they just made us a lock-off trade with the rest of the world, but then they showed their true colors. They started killing blacksmiths whose work they found 'not up to standard'.

Then his men started kidnapping our women and carrying them to their stronghold, raping them and turning them into slaves. Any woman that resisted was burned at the stake like a witch for all to see.

Now they have kidnapped more women two being and daughter and her daughter, I am worried about their safety and mental health being with those animals. Please, I am begging you to save us, save my granddaughter and my daughter" cried out Shamak as kissed the feet of Naruto with tears flowing down his face.

The whole situation made Naruto angry, all he ever wanted is to find peace without drawing his blade, but the only kind of respect he get is as a weapon of destruction. Before Naruto can gather himself to respond, one of the men in robes flew up, causing his face to show. He was in his late twenties, with long bread, pale skin, and dark brown eyes.

"Why beg and worship this complete stranger for help? I and the other men here are more than enough to stop them!!" shouted the young man in a rage. "We don't you Kuroi Kenshi, be gone." the man continued on his rant.

"SILENCE!!", shouted Shamak to the young man.

"You are not a warrior, you a blacksmith, nothing more boy." Shamak continued.

"But father I can do this!" Shouted the young man back to Shamak.

"Oh, really, if you could do this, why didn't you stop them from killing your mother, Abdulaziz!?" Shouted Shamak, enraged by his son's disrespect towards their guest. Abdulaziz, thrown back by his father's words, sat down and threw the hoodie back over his head, hiding his facial expressions.

"I'm sorry for my son. He does not know his place. Please help us," stated Shamak as he apologies to Naruto for Abdulaziz's behavior. Naruto rose to his feet, bringing Shamak to his feet as well.

"I will help you all out but please there's no need to worship me. I'm human like the rest of you, this is merely something I'm blessed to do, just as you do blacksmithing." stated Naruto.

With overwhelming joy, Shamak hugged the teen, making him more uncomfortable. Gently pushing him away, he became serious.

"I need to know where their stronghold or base is so I can formulate a plan of attack.. By the way even if even if I destroy the base wouldn't the ships out in ship bring more soldiers and repeat the cycle?' asked Naruto

"You are right," remarked Shamak in a thinking pose. "By chance, did you see some fishing boat coming in while you passed through the town?" asked Shamak.

Confused, Naruto nodded in the positive.

"Those fishermen weren't just fishing but were laying explosive under the water of the boat. So once their base is down, they won't have any ships to bring in more men." remarked Shamak

"But wouldn't they just bring in more men when they don't hear from them," remarked Naruto, still slightly confused by Shamak's words.

"I don't think so. The King, despite all his power, has limited resources. I believe these men are putting up a show of strength. So once they are gone we shouldn't have any problems." proclaimed Shamak.

"Are you sure?" asked Naruto

"I am sure, replied Shamak

"Ok then, I just need directions to their base so can take care of it as soon as possible" Naruto is confident he can take down mere bandits. His worries is Zabuza , he needs to head back to wave before he appears again.

"Here is a map. It will lead you straight to their stronghold and Kuroi Kenshi, thank you." remarked Shamak as he and everyone besides Abdulaziz and a few others bowed towards him. Naruto returned the favor and went on his way.

As he left, the people rejoiced as they had found their savior, but with the rejoicing of everyone around him, a bitterness grew inside Abdulaziz.

After a while, Naruto arrived at his destination. Wanting a clear view of the stronghold, he climbs on top of a tree to get a better view.

On top of the tree, Naruto could see the Stronghold, a massive multi-structured complex. It had five watch towers one at each corner and one in the middle. The one in middle was the biggest and tallest and had five guards stationed in it covering every direction. The remaining four were equal in height and size to each other and only had three guards on the post.

They also established six other buildings in the stronghold, which appear to be the weapons area, the dining hall, the training hall, the living quarters, and one other that Naruto can't establish use for.

"There are at least four hundred men in there. If I make any mistakes, not all will they call for backup, but they will kill all the kidnapped women as well." he muttered to himself.

"It doesn't matter if they're connected with my family, their life was forfeit when they took over these lands." He said, clutching his blade. Dark putrid Ki started leaking off his Katana.

Hours Later

In the dead of night, under the shroud of darkness, a haunting presence emerged in the forest. The strong hold was besieged by a merciless horde of 400 bandits, holding women and children hostage. But they were unaware of the spectral threat lurking in the shadows.

The Kuroi Kenshi moved with supernatural silence, his black blade seeming to absorb the very moonlight. His steps were like whispers, and his movements cloaked in an aura of foreboding. The wind, his silent ally, carried the faintest rustle of his silk garments as he approached the unsuspecting bandits.

The night air was dense with tension as The Kuroi Kenshi struck. His katana glinted like a malevolent spirit as it sliced through the first bandit's throat, silencing him before he could even scream. The bloodthirsty horde turned to chaos, terror gripping their hearts as their comrades fell like leaves in a storm.

He was a specter of death, a phantom that seemed to be everywhere at once. His strikes were precise and deadly, his blade a masterful instrument of vengeance. Bandit after bandit crumpled in the darkness, their cries of agony echoing into the night.

As the bandits attempted to rally, they found themselves haunted by fleeting glimpses of the samurai, a shadowy wraith that struck from the inky void and then vanished again. The very forest seemed to conspire with him, its leaves and branches masking his presence.

With chilling efficiency, The Kuroi Kenshi liberated the hostages, a silent promise of salvation in his eyes. Women and children clung to him as he moved like a guardian angel, guiding them to safety in the night.

The bandits, now paralyzed by fear, retreated in disarray. The Kuroi Kenshi watched them vanish into the darkness, his ghostly presence lingering in the village like a whispered legend.

The villagers emerged from their hiding places, their faces a blend of awe and terror. The Kuroi Kenshi, the mysterious samurai who had materialized from the shadows, had saved them, but they couldn't shake the spine-tingling sensation that they had been visited by a spectral harbinger of death.

In a dramatic shift from the earlier atmosphere of fear and tension, the villagers decided to express their gratitude to The Kuroi Kenshi with a joyous celebration. The entire village came alive with vibrant colors and jubilant festivities, turning the night into a breathtaking display of unity and thankfulness.

Huge bonfires blazed, casting warm, golden light across the village square. Torches and lanterns adorned every house and street, their flickering flames painting the night with a mesmerizing dance of reds, oranges, and yellows. The warm glow embraced the entire village in a comforting embrace.

The air was filled with the savory aroma of freshly cooked food. Long wooden tables were set up, groaning under the weight of a sumptuous feast. Villagers sat shoulder to shoulder, savoring dishes that celebrated the flavors of their region.

Laughter and music echoed through the night, as families danced to the melodic tunes of traditional instruments. Dancers in colorful attire twirled and leaped with joy, their movements a beautiful expression of gratitude and happiness.

The villagers raised their cups and offered toasts to The Kuroi Kenshi, their voices lifted in praises and gratitude. They spoke of his heroism, his courage, and the sacrifice he had made to save their homes and loved ones. It was a heartfelt tribute to the samurai who had emerged from the shadows to protect them.

Under the starlit sky, with the intoxicating fragrance of blossoms and the gentle rustling of leaves, Naruto watched over the festivities. His heart, once shrouded in darkness, began to feel the warmth of acceptance and appreciation from the very people he had saved.

The celebration continued late into the night, a radiant display of gratitude that brought the villagers closer together.

Underground Base

The old man hugged him, "Thank you" Shamak said crying, "Thank you so much, you're truly an Angel."

"It's no problem, I'm glad to help. Now how about those supplies." replied Naruto, grateful for the praise.

"Of course but in the meantime, you could stay at our place and get some rest," remarked Shamak.

"Oh no , no, I couldn't I will just sleep in the forest," Naruto announced, smiling sheepishly.

"Nonsense. My daughter Arshi, the one that brought you here, will escort you back to our home. And I won't take no for an answer either." Proclaimed Shamak.

He sighed, then relented, "Thank you for hospitality." remarked Naruto, as he followed Arshi out of the base and back to Shamak's home. A few minutes later, they arrived at Shamak's home. From the outside, it looked that a poor old shack with hasn't been maintained in years, but on the inside relieved a beautiful and massive home fit for a king. Arshi ushers Naruto to sit as she changes her clothes and prepares food.

As Naruto looks around, he can see that certain parts of the wall are pure iron and gold and that the flooring of the house is pure silver. As he marvels at the home, Ashri appears with two bowls of soup and hands over one to him.

Without the robe, Naruto could only think that Ashri is an absolute beauty. Her already amazing green eyes are even more beautiful than when her full face could be seen. Her long grey hair shines as bright as the moon in the night sky.

As the two eat Naruto couldn't help but ask why the house was the way it was.

Ashri gigged and replied that this house was in her family since the founding of this town and the marvels of the house were brought from blacksmiths of the family as they traveled the world to do their craft. Her father left the outside in ruins to prevent dishonest travelers from stealing their families treasures, as they don't steal from each other in this community. Naruto, fascinated by Ashri's story, asked if she was a blacksmith too.

She laughed and replied that she was one in training and only her father and brother were true blacksmiths. But one day she wishes to become a great blacksmith like them and even a weapon as legendary as Naruto's sword one day. He's honestly impressed by Ashri's passion, Naruto continues to talk to Ashri for hours before the two decide it's time to go to bed. Ashri directs him to his quarters and wishes him good night before heading into hers.

The flickering candle cast eerie shadows on the walls, creating an atmosphere fraught with tension.

As Naruto lays in bed, he closed his eyes and was transported back in time, his dreams becoming a haunting tapestry of memories. He found himself on the battlefield, surrounded by the ghosts of those he had struck down, their lifeless eyes accusing him. The weight of his past actions bore down on his shoulders, and he was suffocated by the heavy guilt that clung to his soul.

The faces of the fallen swirled around him, their voices rising in a chorus of condemnation. "Monster!" they cried, their accusations echoing in the recesses of his mind. Naruto's father, who had also met his end on the battlefield, stood among them, his eyes filled with disappointment and sorrow.

Tears welled in Naruto's eyes as he tried to escape the relentless guilt and accusations. His dreams turned into a never-ending nightmare where he was eternally pursued by the specters of his past, each one blaming him for their untimely demise.

In the darkness of the night, Naruto awoke with a start, his body drenched in cold sweat. His chest heaved, and he clutched the hilt of his katana tightly, as if seeking solace in its cold, unforgiving steel. The memories of the past and the accusing voices still lingered, leaving him distressed.


Author Notes

Thats all for now.

Chapter 10 is coming soon, I hope you guys enjoy. Next Chapter will be the battle between Naruto and Zabuza and soon the fated meeting between brothers will come as well.

If you have any questions or suggestions to make the story better just leave review. Once more, I appreciate everyone for contributing with this story. So please… the more reviews the better.

See ya.