Chapter 18

Beta: Old man of the mountain/Darklord331

Naruto and his brothers had finished up their day of training. Naruto honestly made a good amount of work with his new Taijutsu style. Thankfully, with his brother's there he was able to advance further than expected. His strikes were powerful enough to damage the body and cause them to explode. But that is only when hitting certain vital spots on the body.

His brothers did their own training and were making progress in their own fields.

Arriving at the village, they heard shouting and screams. Naruto narrowed his eyes and rushed forward, with his brother right behind him. Getting closer, they saw that the citizens were gathered in the center of town.

Sitting there were 10 armored men with riding lizards as their mounts.

"This village is the property of our Lizard division! Surrender all your provisions and we will let you live!"

Naruto sighed,

"Great, another Fire Nation division that is more focus on asserting their dominance." A mouth appeared on his cheek,

"It is to be expected. People will always take advantage of wartime struggles." He smirked. This is a golden opportunity, though. You can test your new style on them."

Naruto nodded. The mouth disappeared and he turned to his brothers,

"Buddha, Beelzebub, I need you both to deal with the citizens and make sure they don't get caught in the crossfire."

"You got it little brother." Buddha cracked his neck, "I'll deal with the citizens while Beelzebub handles the stragglers."

The dark hair brother nodded, leading to Naruto landing in front of the soldiers.

"This is pretty sad," the soldiers turned. "Harassing innocent people going about their lives without a care. Now you're planning on stealing everything they have for your own greed." Naruto sighed, "It makes me wonder if we are of the same race."

The leader growled and he pointed at Naruto, "You trying to be a hero brat!" Looking back at the men, "Kill him now!"

Three of his men leaped into action. Throwing out fireballs and torrents of flame. Naruto waited for the flames to get close.] Then he dashed around the attacks and appeared in front of the attackers. Their eyes widened in shock and tried to respond. But Naruto acted quicker and struck one man in the head with two of his fingers digging them between his eyes. Then ducking under another attacker who was aiming his head. Then he felt a palm on his arm and then a strike to his leg. Pushing off from the momentum, Naruto slammed his elbow into the face of the last attacker.

He jumped backwards, staring at the confused men.

"Wh-what did you do?" One of the men looked at his body and smirked, "Because if that was supposed to intimidate us it was pathetic!"

Watching on, Naruto saw that the other attackers were also laughing at the absurdity of the situation. Beelzebub watched from nearby and shook his head while Buddha secretly moved the citizens away from the attackers. With his chakra, he was able to hide his movement, and with Naruto acting as the primary aggressor, they were more focused on a singular direction.

Naruto sighed,

"3,2,1," A snap was heard in the quiet town square.

The man he jabbed suddenly stopped laughing.

"W-w-wait what is happening!" Naruto watched as he twitched for a few seconds. Then his body started turning in awkward angles and slowly blowing up with his veins becoming more pronounced.

Then he screamed, and then he exploded. Gore was covering the ground, and some of the nearby men looked on in fear of what just happened.

The other men looked on in shock, while the two that were hit were staring in fear. Naruto looked at them and smiled,

"Did you live your life to the fullest, did you succeed in everything you wanted, did have all your dreams completed?" His smile grew dark, "No? Well too bad, this is the end for you." he snapped his fingers and soon the two men started convulsing and blowing up too. They too turned into gore piles all over the ground.

The other troops grew fearful. Their minds shut down, and they realized just how badly they underestimated the brat. Some of their previous encounters with the Avatar and his team gave them false confidence. They never imagined something like this happening.

Buddha sighed before pulling out a bag of chips and eating them.

"A little rough around the edges but I would give this a B in the first attempt of using this style." He grabbed a handful of chips and munched down on the food. "All he needs is more practice and control of his energy, then he should be able to use this more effortlessly."

The other soldiers quickly took battle stances while the rider's leader hopped onto his mount.

"Men give me a chance to escape! It will give me enough time to-,"

He found someone standing behind him, while mounted on his lizard.

"No, you won't do anything other than dying here."

Turning around the commander opened his mouth only to find the hand touching his face, then a bit of shaking, and finally nothing.

The troops, on the other hand, watched as a young black hair man touched their commander and made him vibrate for a few seconds. Then explode in a violent manner like the young man and his strikes.

Naruto, seeing the troopers distracted, quickly used his wind release to create invisible blades of wind, which he then sent flying at the troopers. They didn't even register what he was doing, with him forming a single hand sign and then waving his hand.

The men soon found their heads falling off their bodies and finding their lives flash before their eyes.

"Well, that was easier than I thought." Buddha walked up to his younger brothers and smiled, "Good job both of you. As the eldest I can't be prouder."

Naruto rolled his eyes, while Beelzebub just snorted. The brothers quickly checked on the town's folk. Some seemed a bit shaken up, while others seemed relieved. In the end, the town was just thankful to them.

"As the chief of the village there is no words to express what you have done for us. We surely would have been tortured for our supplies." he sighed, "We don't have much in the way of food and most of our other resources are close to being used up." Turning around, "if we had been robbed by those men we would have had to flee to the capital. As it is the only thing that has not been affected by the war."

Naruto nodded, "It was no problem. We are staying in your village to begin with, so it is only natural that we would assist in dealing with this mess."

"Well, you are more helpful than most." The elder sighed, "If only the army was more like you then maybe we wouldn't have so much trouble."

"I'm guessing the Earth Kingdom Army doesn't come out this far?"

"Since the incident with Omashu it is even less than before. We do have benders in the village that can occasionally handle the bandit group that comes. As most of them aren't benders and if they are, mostly novices at best. But when actual soldiers show up? They are nowhere to be seen." The old man slammed his fist onto the desk, "Just because we are a small village with no military value or resources or rich people living here! We are seen as expendable!"

Naruto figured this is the case given that the nature of the war on the Earth Kingdom side seemed to be focus on protecting the primary assets. Leaving those that are too small or not valuable on their own. Personally, it was a terrible practice but in the case of war it sometimes is necessary for the survival of the whole. Some would call Naruto and his brother's cruel for not caring about this situation, but they didn't have a horse in the race so to speak.

'Plus, it is probably best not to mention that we took part in the fight in Omashu with ensuring the Fire Nation won the fight.'

"Honestly," the man stood up and looked out his window, "If we could be independent like Uzu, this wouldn't be that much of a problem."

Uzu?

Naruto looked at the old man in shock. He had learned a lot of history over the last few years and knew that Uzu was the name of the land ruled by the Uzumaki. He was also confused about what the man was talking about.

"Uzu?" The old man turned to Naruto,

"Yes the land that is off the coast and ruled by a large clan consisting of people from the same bloodline. I heard they are from some continent far away from here. Apparently driven out by a war that was aiming to exterminate them all."

Now Naruto knew he was talking about his people.

"How long has the group be active in the region?" He had to know all the details.

"Oh, interested are you?" The old man sighed, "Well, you're better off forgetting them."

"Why though?"

"Because other than the occasional mercenary that comes out or someone that is banished due to personal reasons, they don't interact with outsiders much."

Buddha swallowed the last of his chips, "So they are still isolationists huh?" He rolled his neck before pulling out a lollipop from somewhere. "That is what they were like back in the previous continent."

"Yes I would say that is about right, but they have reasons to be that way. The Bending Nations didn't exactly welcome them and even the Avatar tried to remove them. But they quickly pushed back against all that dared to trespass on their lands. More, they are the reason that even someone like Avatar Roku didn't dare cross them. Especially if the rumors are true that they possess powers that are greater than bending." The old man laughed, "It is funny to hear how that one man from their land managed to fend off both kingdoms when they came for their lands resources."

Naruto was interested.

"So, you can confirm that this event happened?"

"Of course, everyone in the Bending Nations knows, I say it happened about 10 years ago. The Fire Nation had launched an invasion on Uzu, who refused to assist them in the war effort, and the Earth Kingdom did the same; they wanted their supplies and used the land as a staging area for the colonies. But before they could get close, one person came out of Uzu and managed to wipe out the fleet of ships and leagues of soldiers from the Earth Kingdom. Lighting rained down from the sky, destroying them all without a single soldier escaping. From the outskirts of their kingdom, you can still see the remains of the soldiers that were killed in the war and even the devastation left behind by the warrior of Uzu. Since then, all the nations have thought twice about getting in their way. Especially considering the level of damage one of them could do. Could you imagine if they sent out their entire army and all their resources on the Bending Nations?"

Naruto was proud. How couldn't he be? His clan was alive and well and it seemed they were just as powerful as before. What took more than four countries to pull off, they were holding off enemies from the nearby lands. But the information about mercenaries running around and information that they did leave the island piqued his interest. That meant they did go out into the world but probably didn't trade information with the other lands.

"The only people that have connections to those people are the Colonies as they seem to be the only one that they trade with."

Beelzebub asked, "Like rare metals or something?"

"Yes and other supplies. Honestly I don't know the full scale of their operations. But I do know that the colonies have prospered from this."

"So how long would it take to reach Uzu?" Naruto already had his next destination in mind. While the colonies would be fun to explore again and possibly find people from Uzu to talk to, it seemed to be better to head straight there. And if he was denied entry or couldn't reach them simply, he would go through the colonies.

"I would say on foot maybe four to five days. That depends on which terrain you go to. However, if you were to go to the Colony known as Yu Dao, it would be the quickest. As they are not too far from the Uzu land."

Naruto thanked the old man and walked out of the building. While his brother stayed behind to talk to the old man some more about supplies and information in the nearby area. Naruto on the other hand was more focused on the possibilities.

'I might be one step closer to learning about my family.'

Sukuna sitting on his throne of bones looked out at the mindscape,

"Be careful with that mind set Naruto. You don't know how they changed in all those years. Considering they don't let outsiders in or barely do any trades with the kingdoms. It is clear they have learned from their past mistakes."

'True, but this is an opportunity I can't afford to waste.'

"I'm not saying don't take it. But temper your expectations and be ready for the end result that might not be ideal."

Naruto knew he was just looking out for him in this situation. But, he prayed, he hoped, someone would finally give him a clue to his family and to know was he really loved.

Sukuna who was watching Naruto go through his turmoil did ponder what the descendants of his one his students are now like.

Aang and the Gang

Aang was having a flustering time. Ever since his vision last night he was haunted by the fact that guy was anger with him. Or was it more spirit than man? Aang wasn't sure but he knew the guy obviously didn't like him. But in his mind he couldn't shake the words he was speaking, something related to the Fire Nation was not the sole reason the Fire Nation was not the sole reason the war started. Personally, he was really confused.

But for now, he put that in the back of his mind as they had to continue with their journey to find him a bending teacher for Earth bending. While also looking for possible help in dealing with the Fire Nation and insight into the Avatar State. That seemed to be the trick he needed to master in the future battle against the Fire Lord. But nothing he has seen in his visions or his training in the spirit realm has helped. He was incredibly frustrated by this.

But Gai, the teacher for one of the groups guarding him, told him that sometimes you just must wait until something comes. While pushing against the tide of frustration is good for training, sometimes it can be more disastrous than waiting. Aang didn't understand what he was getting at, but eventually, he just ceded his point. He would take time during the day to do other things and hopefully find answers down the road.

While on the road, he got to know the group, and he admitted that while Gai and Lee looked funny, he enjoyed their company. They were very positive and insightful, and he couldn't help but smile and laugh with them.

Sokka seemed to gravitate toward Shikmaru, Asuma, and Neji. They traded information and details about the world's current situation and what needed to be done to win.

Katar on the other hand, was enjoying having other girls in the group. As there were things that she couldn't say to her brother or Aang. Or talk about considering the situation they were in. Ino was understanding and with some research and studies in medicine she was able to help in times of crisis. She admitted that a friend of hers was the better healer, but she couldn't come along for certain reasons. When Katara asked she just smiled sadly,

"It is something tied to Naruto."

That was all she gave and knew better than to push the matter.

Tenten, on the other hand, was a breath of fresh air. She was curious about weapons and did some girl talk. She was more of a male character compared to most girls, but she did have her own charm. Katara could respect a girl going out to complete a job without the support of a man.

So far the group was enjoying the trip with most enjoying the ride with Appa. But Sokka could tell the teams were tense given they have never flown on a Bison and haven't been in this region for long. So, they were just digging up as much information as possible.

"Troublesome you made the right choices Sokka. It is sad coming up with plans and not being heard out."

"I know and it's annoying because all I'm trying to do is protect my sister and Aang." He looked down, "Especially since they are the only family I have left."

Asuma sighed, "Yeah protecting those you love, it can sometimes be an unthankful task."

"Yeah. But I'm glad that we were able to save Bumi in the end, but I worry about the aftermath this is going to bring. Especially to the people from Omashu. That many displaced in such a short time plus word spreading about what they did? It is going to be rough for them. Luckily their king is strong, so I doubt they are going to face too much trouble. But feeding all those people and making sure they are comfortable is going to be a struggle."

"Yeah. Sigh, sometimes it hurts when you try to think things long term and others only see the short term."

Sokka smiled happy someone agreed with him for once. It was nice talking to them. But he soon noticed a sudden dip in the air, and he frowned. Turning his head he saw Aang was guiding the bison down. Looking over the edge he saw that they were heading for a swamp forest.

"Aang did you see something," shouted Sokka.

"Huh?" Aang came out of his daze and frowned. "Was I guiding us downward?"

"Yeah is something wrong?"

"No, I just felt something pulling me to the forest."

"Is it something spirit like," Neji looked at Aang, "If so then maybe it is trying to say something important to you?"

"Maybe."

Suddenly Neji felt the hair on the back of his neck flare up.

"Aang pull us up!"

Before he could crack the reigns, a large tornado of water sprouted out of the forest and hit Appa in his underside.

The group shifted due to the strike but soon another sprout of water hit Appa sending them tumbling to the forest below.

The ninja quickly assessed the situation and swapped places with the nearest thing in the forest.

Aang managed to use some wind to guide himself back to the floor below. But he lost track of everyone in the midst's of the storm.

Sokka found himself falling but was grabbed by some kind of vine in the trees and dragged away with a shout.

Katara, too, was dragged away by some kind of vine in the forest, and the two animals were equally perplexed when they were separated from their friends.

In the forest there was a figure sitting in the middle of the water and he had a small smile on his face.

"You've finally come Avatar how delightful." He lifted his head and the faint light into the forest revealed black arrow tattoos covering his body. "Come and let us rejoice in the end of this cruel era."

In another part of the Erath Kingdom a scarred young man with short black hair and gold eyes was sitting in the middle of town. He and an old man were sitting next to one another and staring at the person in front of them.

"Why are you here Azula?"

"Oh Zu-Zu are you not happy to see your dear sister?" She smiled sarcastically, "I have a message from Father."

Zuko was excited to hear from his father while Iroh could only sigh mentally,

'I pray this won't end terribly.'

"Father wishes for you to return to the Fire Nation. He wishes to speak to you about the Avatar and recent events."

Zuko narrowed his eyes, he was sure that wasn't the case now. From what he knew, reports had to reach his father about how he helped the Water Benders defeat the Fire Nation in the North Pole. There was no doubt in his mind he pissed off his father. But for him to return now?

Azula saw the apprehensive look in both of their eyes. While the brother wasn't the sharpest tool in the box he wasn't stupid. He knew that he screwed things up in the North Pole. Word got back home, and her father is furious. If Zuko didn't realize this then her uncle did.

Turning to her subordinates she motioned for them to wait outside. While the guards were reluctant they did as instruct.

Turning back to her relatives she sighed before sitting down next to them at the table.

"Geez Zuko you should read the room." She frowned at her brother, "I mean couldn't you tell I was hinting at something?"

"Huh?"

Iroh was equally perplexed.

"Geez, look I'm trying to help you two out. Consider this as a long overdue gift from me to you. Plus," she bit her lip, "I know what is waiting you both when you get home, and I don't want that."

Zuko continued to frown while Iroh was puzzled. Was this really his niece, the same one that was cruel and almost a carbon copy of his brother?

'Or did I let my own prejudice blind me to what is going on?'

Azula looked at the two men, "Look I'm telling you this to help protect you."

"I don't know need your charity Azula." Zuko growled at his sister. He was aware of her cruelty and how she manipulated people around her. She did that most of their lives and done it to bother him. She was very sneaky and knew how to play the crowd.

"What is it then?" Iroh figured he knew but he wanted to hear from his niece to gauge her honesty.

Azula figured this would happen given her history with them. she couldn't hold it against them. "Father is furious you helped not only the Water tribe at the North Pole, cost him an important commander, but also allowed the Avatar to escape with more knowledge and mastery of Water. In his eyes, you are the only people that should be held responsible for the mess in the North Pole. Which is why, on top of my current mission of tracking him down, I was to bring you both in."

"What is awaiting us?"

Azula shivered, "To start? He is going to give Zuko a matching scar on the other side of his face. Then do the same thing to you uncle and if you both survive his punishment he is going throw you both in Boiling Rock." Azula looked at her brother, "You might not believe me brother, but I really am trying to help you here. Mai would be upset if something happened to you, and plus," she frowned deeply, "I don't want something to happen to you again."

Zuko raised an eyebrow, "Huh?"

"Nothing now, we are preparing to leave in a few days. I think it is best you two come along initially and then flee deep into the Earth Kingdom. Far away from the Fire Nation's view. I heard Ba Sing Sae is nice this time of year." Azula stood up from her chair, "Come or don't but trust me you both should listen to what I had to say."

With this Azula excused herself to head back out into the streets and communicate with the guards they are leaving in a few days to head back.

Zuko stared back at where his sister sat.

"Was this for real?" He rubbed his face, "I, I honestly don't know how to feel about this."

Iroh nodded. "I know how you feel, Zuko, but we have to look at our current situation. Taking into account everything that has happened she is definitely speaking the truth."

"Yeah but still, why would she say such a thing?"

"Is it wrong to think that maybe your sister is really trying to help you out?"

"I will believe it when I see it."

"Zuko sometimes you have to forgive those around you and hope they are truly better than they once were."

Zuko could only sigh, sometimes he wondered if his uncle was too nice. Yeah, he never knew her like he did growing up but still he seemed to forgive people too much. And that sometimes worried him.

"Like you once said Uncle actions speak louder than words."

Iroh laughed, "True." Getting up, he sighed and stretched, "I believe then we should pack and get ready to head out to the next town if what she is saying is true."

"But first," Zuko stood up, "Let's see how honest she is with her intentions."

Iroh raised an eyebrow and nodded.

Actions speak louder than words.

Chapter End