Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Each series belongs to their respective authors, Kishimoto and Rick Riordan.
"Standard" - Normal Speaking
'Italics'–Thoughts
"Bold" techniques.
-(1983 BC)-
Naruto's feet carried him across the expanse of the plains, the towering trees of the forest fading into the distance behind him. The sun hung high in the sky, casting long shadows over the earth as if reluctant to fully illuminate the path ahead.
Despite leaving his mother a couple of days ago, his mother's voice was a ghostly presence in his mind. "Mortals are unpredictable, Naruto. They can be kind, but they can also be driven by fear and ignorance. Be cautious and never forget who you are."
The first village he approached was modest, its thatched roofs and stone walls standing as silent sentinels of a simpler life. The air here was different thicker, more oppressive. It wasn't the peaceful village atmosphere that Naruto had imagined. No, something darker lurked beneath the surface, a tension that twisted the stomach and tightened the throat.
As he crossed the threshold into the village, eyes began to glance at him. First, they were curious, the gaze of those unaccustomed to strangers. But soon, curiosity gave way to something else; doubt, suspicion, fear. Whispers started to ripple through the village, like a breeze stirring the leaves before a storm.
"He's not from around here."
"Look at those blue eyes… they aren't even Greek. Do you think he is…"
He could feel the unease growing with each step, the villagers' murmurs blending into a cacophony of fear and worry.
Naruto approached a market stall, hoping to purchase supplies for his journey. The vendor, an elderly man with a hunched back and lined face, eyed him suspiciously. The man's hands shook as he arranged the goods on the counter, his movements betraying his nervousness.
"What do you want?" The vendor's voice was rough, the words clipped and cautious.
Naruto offered a small smile, hoping to ease the man's fears. "Just some food and water for the road," he asked, his tone as soft as he could muster.
The vendor hesitated, his eyes flicking to Naruto's face. "We don't want any trouble here, stranger," the old man said, his voice barely above a whisper.
"I'm not here to cause trouble," Naruto assured him, though he could sense that his words were falling on deaf ears.
The vendor finally handed over a small sack of bread and a waterskin, but he refused the coins Naruto offered in exchange. "Take it and go, it on the village," the man muttered, his gaze darting around in fear.
Naruto accepted the goods with a nod, sensing that it was best not to push the issue. As he turned to leave, the whispers grew louder, more insistent. He could feel the weight of their eyes on his back, their fear like a physical presence pressing down on him.
He left the village quickly, the tension in the air dissipating as soon as he crossed the threshold back into the open plains. The uneasy silence of the village still clung to him as the sun began to set, casting the world in hues of orange and red.
Naruto walked for hours after leaving the village, the sun slowly descending toward the horizon. The surrounding plains gradually gave way to rolling hills, their gentle slopes dotted with patches of wildflowers and the occasional olive tree. The path he followed was a well-worn road leading southeast, toward a city that he had heard the villagers whisper about Athens, the heart of the mortal world, where gods and men supposedly walked side by side.
As dusk approached, Naruto took a break. He found a flat rock near the side of the road, partially shaded by a cluster of trees that rustled softly in the evening breeze. Setting down his small sack of supplies, he reached for the waterskin the vendor had reluctantly given him. He uncorked it and took a long sip, the cool water soothing his parched throat.
The road ahead stretched toward the distant horizon, where the first lights of evening fires began to flicker in the approaching twilight. The air was still filled with the earthy scent of the land and the faint chirping of crickets beginning their nightly song. Naruto closed his eyes for a moment, letting the sounds of nature calm his mind, but his thoughts soon drifted back to the village he had left behind.
The memory of the fear in the villagers' eyes remained vivid in his mind. He had a sense of familiarity with this kind of fear-
A flash of discomfort and sadness filled him as took another sip of water, his gaze following the road that wound its way through the hills. Athens lay somewhere far in the southeast, a city he knew little about but heard a lot about. Lysimachia informed him about the first city in history to have a patron god. The only other city that had patron as a deity and was close by had been destroyed nearly two decades ago.
As he sat there, the sky gradually darkened, the first stars of Nyx beginning to twinkle overhead. The road, now bathed in the soft glow of twilight, seemed to beckon him forward, a path leading into the unknown.
Taking one last, thoughtful sip from the waterskin, Naruto re-corked it and placed it back in his pack. With a last glance at the darkening sky, Naruto began to walk away from the village.
The dusty winds of Anatolia whipped across the landscape, carrying with them the scent of the sea and the promise of distant lands. Cadmus led a determined group of men, their horses' hooves thundering through rough terrain. With purpose, his dark, intense eyes scanned the horizon.
His father's words echoed in his mind, a command that weighed heavily on his heart. "Do not return to Phoenicia without your sister. Either find her or never return."
The sternness of his father's voice was only surpassed by the sorrow in his eyes. Europa, the light of their family, had vanished, spirited away by a bull of unimaginable beauty that traveled at impossible speeds and over the water.
Cadmus refused to accept this. Europa was his sister, and he would bring her home. For months, he had traveled across foreign lands, from the shores of Cyprus to the rugged mountains of Anatolia, asking after her, following the faintest whispers of her whereabouts. His men, loyal soldiers who had sworn their lives to his cause, followed him without question. They had fought bandits, crossed treacherous rivers, and endured the blistering sun, all for the sake of finding the lost princess.
His mother and his brothers were with him too as they rode through the barren countryside. The land was harsh, reflecting the daunting task ahead. Returning to Phoenicia without Europa was unbearable, because of his father's command and his own duty and love for Europa.
"We're getting closer," Cadmus muttered, his voice low but firm. The men riding alongside him looked to their leader with unwavering trust.
"Where are we headed now, my lord?" one of them asked, his voice gruff from days of hard travel.
"Delphi," Cadmus replied, his eyes fixed ahead. "The Oracle will have answers. If the gods have taken Europa, then the gods will know where she is."
His men were filled with unease upon hearing the name Delphi. According to legends, the Oracle of Delphi could convey the wishes of Apollo, and her prophecies were both revered and dreaded. With no other choice available, Cadmus had to face the uncertainty that lay on the path to Delphi. Mortal knowledge had failed him; now he would seek divine guidance from the gods.
The journey to Delphi would not be easy. They would have to cross the Aegean, navigate treacherous mountain passes, and finally, ascend to the sanctuary where the Oracle resided. But Cadmus was not deterred. The flames of determination burned brightly within him, fanned by the memory of Europa's laughter, her smile, and the innocence that had been stolen from her.
"Prepare yourselves," Cadmus said, turning to face his men. "We leave at dawn. The gods will see that we are just in our cause. We will find Europa, no matter the cost."
His men nodded, their faces set in grim determination. They had followed Cadmus through countless hardships, and they would follow him still to the ends of the earth if necessary. Europa would be found. The gods could not hide her forever, not from Cadmus, who would not be denied.
As the sun set behind the distant mountains, casting long shadows over the land, Cadmus dismounted and stood at the edge of a prominent ridge overlooking the plains below. He imagined Europa, wherever she was, looking up at the same sky, wondering if one of their brothers had found her.
"Your brother is coming for you, Europa," he whispered into the wind. "And I will not stop until you are safe and at home."
With that vow echoing in his heart, Cadmus turned back to his men, ready to face whatever trials on the road to Delphi would bring. They would seek the wisdom of the Oracle, and if fate was kind, they would find the path that would lead them to Europa. No matter how long it took, or how far they had to go, Cadmus would see his sister returned to their homeland. The gods would guide them, or they would feel his wrath.
-Olympus-
Zeus strode through the halls of Olympus, his mood as bright as the sun Helios rode as it bathed the heavens in golden light. His recent time in Crete had been a success. Europa was safe, settled, and destined to become the first queen of the island. The thought pleased him. Europa, with her gentle spirit and radiant beauty, would thrive in Crete, and her lineage would flourish under his blessing. The king of gods felt a rare sense of satisfaction as he prepared to rejoin his duties in Olympus.
But as he fused with the divine essence of himself that acted as himself in his stead that and left behind to manage the affairs of Olympus, a chill ran down his spine. The atmosphere in the grand hall shifted abruptly, the air crackling with an energy that was anything but welcoming. Zeus paused, his senses sharpening as he realized he was no longer alone.
Hera stood at the entrance of the hall, her eyes narrowed and stormy, Hera, his queen, standing in the shadow of the grand columns, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her expression as dark as the tempest she was barely restraining. Her eyes, usually a shade of warm brown, were cold and narrowed with fury, her lovely lips pressed into a thin line.
Her presence was a tempest in itself, and Zeus, despite his divine might, felt a flicker of nervousness. Hera's anger was not to be taken lightly.
"Hera," Zeus began, attempting a warm tone as he approached her. "I was just—"
"Save your words, Zeus," Hera cut him off, her voice sharp as a blade. "I know where you've been."
Zeus halted, his heart sinking. He had expected this, but not so soon. "I—"
"In Crete," Hera continued, her eyes flashing with anger. "With her."
Zeus sighed, already feeling the weight of the coming storm. "Europa is under my protection. She-"
"Europa!" Hera snapped, her fury boiling over. "Do you know who she is, Zeus? Do you even care?"
"She is the future queen of Crete," Zeus said, trying to maintain his composure. "I've ensured her safety and prosperity. That is my duty as king of the gods."
"She is more than that!" Hera's voice rose, echoing through the throne room. "I know that mortal woman is a descendant of Io! Did you forget? Io, who you transformed into a cow to hide your infidelity from me! And now, Europa—Io's great-great-granddaughter—is the mother of your children! You've procreated within that bloodline twice!"
Zeus flinched at her words, though he tried to mask it with a calm exterior. "Hera, that was long ago. Io was-"
"Don't," Hera interrupted, stepping closer, her voice low and dangerous. "Don't you dare dismiss this as ancient history. For me, it was like it was yesterday. Io was your lover, and now her descendant carries your bloodline. How many times will you repeat the same mistakes, Zeus? How many families will you entangle in your webs?"
Zeus's patience began to wane. "You speak of mistakes, Hera, but we are gods. The mortals' blood means nothing to us—it is the divine essence that matters. You yourself are my sister, yet we are wed! Is that not the same?"
"No, it is not the same!" Hera's voice was filled with both fury and indignation. "We are gods, Zeus! We are made of divine essence, not mortal blood! The bond we share is of the heavens, divine and untainted by mortal lineage. But what you have done and keep doing to me… what you have done is drag your divine essence through the mire of mortality, twisting their fates for your own desires."
Zeus took a deep breath, his frustration mounting. "Mortals are fleeting, Hera. Their lives are brief, their lineages fragile. Gods give them meaning. We give them—"
"You give them nothing but a target on their back!" Hera shot back, her eyes blazing. "And you, with your endless need for conquest and validation, leave them to bear the weight of your whims. Europa will bear your children, yes… but at what cost? My heart and the women you cheat with!"
Zeus clenched his jaw at the threat, realizing that Hera's anger was not simply about jealousy or pride.
"I have ensured Europa's safety and her prosperity," Zeus said, firmly shutting down the conversation. "She will be the mother of a noble line, and Crete will flourish under her descendants. That is the will of the Fates, and I will not defy it."
Hera stared at him, her fury simmering just beneath the surface. "The will of the Fates…" she repeated, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Or is it merely your will, Zeus? You who have twisted the strands of destiny so many times that you've forgotten what it truly means to be a god?"
Zeus met her gaze, a mix of defiance and weariness in his eyes. "I am the king of the gods, Hera."
Hera snarled at him, turned and walked away, the sound of her footsteps echoing through the grand hall. The echoes of their heated debate lingered in the air, refusing to dissipate.
-Thrace-
The sun hung low over the hills of Thrace, casting long shadows as Cadmus kneeled by his mother's gravesite. The wind carried the scent of the sea, a faint reminder of their home in Phoenicia. His brothers had dispersed in search of Europa, and now he was alone. His heart was heavy as he placed a final offering by the grave, the words of the funeral rites still echoing in his mind.
"I'll find her, Mother," he whispered softly, his voice thick with emotion. "I'll bring Europa back… somehow."
His resolve was unshaken, but grief lingered like a shadow. Standing up, he turned his eyes south, toward Delphi. The oracle was his last hope. Perhaps Apollo's servant could offer the guidance that had eluded him for so long.
-Delphi-
A month later, Cadmus stood before the entrance of the Oracle of Delphi, his heart pounding. The sacred place was as imposing as it was mysterious, bathed in the divine glow of Apollo's power. Inside, the temple was dimly lit, incense swirling in the air, and the murmurs of prayer echoed softly through the stone chambers.
The Pythia sat upon her tripod, her eyes closed in trance-like reverence, her lips. Cadmus approached cautiously, unsure of what to expect. He had heard of the oracle's power, but experiencing it firsthand was different.
The priestess stirred as he entered, her eyes snapping open as if she had been awaiting his arrival to reveal that they glowed serpent green.
When she spoke, her voice sounded like a triple of herself speaking at the same time.
"Cadmus of Phoenicia," she intoned, her voice low and full of authority. "You come seeking your sister, Europa."
"Yes," Cadmus replied, his voice cracking slightly. "I've searched the world for her, but I've found nothing. Please, tell me where she is."
The Pythia was silent for a moment, her eyes gazing into the distance as if seeing something far beyond the mortal world. Finally, she spoke.
"You will not find her, Cadmus. The gods have taken her beyond your reach. Your path lies elsewhere."
Cadmus' heart sank at those words, his fists clenched at his sides. "No! I can't give up! I've come so far—"
The Pythia's glowing green eyes and gaze were sharp, cutting through his protest. "Your search for Europa must end. But another task lies before you. Follow it, and you shall find your destiny."
Cadmus frowned, confused. "What task? What do you mean?"
"If you make for the wilds, you will soon be met
by a cow that has never been yoked or harnessed
to draw a plowshare. She is to guide your path, and where she settles for grazing,
found a city with walls and name the region Boeótia."
Cadmus blinked, taken aback. "A… a cow? You want me to follow a cow?"
The Pythia's expression did not change. "Yes. A cow marked with the half-moon on her flank will lead you to a place where you will build a great city. Your journey does not end in Europa's shadow, but in a new beginning."
"This must be a joke from the gods." Cadmus grumbled as he left Delphi.
With a heart heavy yet fueled by unwavering determination, Cadmus set his sights on Phocis, the nearest city that had a king. The journey, though grueling and stained with sorrow, did little to dampen his resolve. He finally arrived at the court of King Pelagon, an aged ruler known far and wide for his wisdom and his prized cattle.
Standing before the king, surrounded by the heady scent of wildflowers riding on the breeze, Cadmus met Pelagon's gaze. The king's eyes, sharp despite his years, seemed to weigh Cadmus's soul. Finally, Pelagon spoke, his voice low and steady, "You seek the cow with the moon-shaped markings."
Cadmus nodded, his eyes flicking towards the sacred pasture just beyond the courtyard, where he glimpsed the cow grazing beneath the shade of ancient trees. "That is the one," he replied, his tone respectful yet firm.
Pelagon's gaze followed Cadmus's. "She is yours," he said after a moment, "if you can pay the price."
Cadmus bowed deeply, his resolve clear. "Name it, and I will pay for what is required."
They haggled for a time, but Cadmus, unwavering, met the king's terms. Once the deal was struck, he turned to his companions, ready to begin the next leg of their journey. The sacred cow, now his, seemed to understand its role in this unfolding story. It moved with an eerie grace as Cadmus and his men followed it out of the court, back into the rugged landscape to the direction of the land in the future be called Boeotia.
As they trekked through valleys and over hills, Cadmus often found himself speaking to the cow, as if expecting it to answer the unspoken questions swirling in his mind. The cow, however, remained silent, leading them on with an almost otherworldly purpose. Days stretched on, each one bringing them closer to a fate that Cadmus could sense but not yet see.
"Where are you taking me?" Cadmus asked one evening, as the cow grazed lazily by a river. "Are we getting close?"
True to its nature, the cow stayed silent, yet Cadmus derived a small sense of comfort from the regularity. With each passing mile, he grew more accepting of his peculiar new circumstances.
The journey is long and arduous, but Cadmus remains vigilant, knowing that the end of his quest is near. Finally, after two days of travel, the cow begins to slow, its once-strong steps growing weaker with each passing hour. Cadmus's heart quickens in anticipation, aware that the moment is drawing near.
As the sun dips low on the horizon, casting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, the cow comes to a stop in a peaceful clearing, lush with tall grass and wildflowers. With a heavy sigh, the cow lays down on the soft earth, it's breathing slow and even.
Finally, after days of walking, the cow came to a stop in a lush valley in Boeotia, the rolling hills stretching out before them and a stream of river Cephisus flowing near it. The cow lay down, its journey apparently at an end.
Cadmus stood still, staring at the animal in disbelief. "This is it?"
The cow merely blinked at him, chewing on a mouthful of grass.
Cadmus exhaled slowly, looking around at the landscape. It was beautiful, peaceful even. Perhaps the gods had known what they were doing after all.
"A new city," he said aloud, the weight of the moment settling over him. "This is where I am meant to build it."
As the realization took hold, Cadmus felt something shift within him. For the first time since Europa's disappearance, he felt a sense of peace and purpose.
"Very well," he said quietly, his voice carrying on the wind. "I will build a city here. A new beginning, as the gods have willed."
The cow let out a soft lowing sound, as if in approval, and Cadmus couldn't help but chuckle.
"Thank you," he said, patting the cow's side. "Who would've thought? A cow leading me to my destiny."
Realizing that this is the designated place, Cadmus murmurs to himself, his voice filled with reverence. He turns to his companions, a sense of completion filling his chest, and announces, "Here, we will build our city."
Approaching the cow, he gently rests his hand on its side, feeling the warmth of its body beneath his fingers. Softly, Cadmus declares, "It is time to honor the gods. We will sacrifice this sacred cow to Athena, who has guided us through these trials."
The sun began its slow descent, casting a warm, amber glow over the rocky hills of Boeotia. Cadmus stood in the clearing where the future city would rise. His fingers traced the smooth horns of the cow that lay on the altar, ready for sacrifice. The animal's large brown eyes blinked calmly up at him, unaware of its fate.
Cadmus' companions were busy preparing for the ritual. The smell of crushed herbs and incense filled the air as they set up small bowls of offerings beside the cow. Cadmus watched them for a moment before turning to his closest man, Klytos, a grizzled warrior who had been at his side since his quest for Europa began.
"Klytos," Cadmus called, his voice steady, "We need pure water for the sacrifice. Take the others to the spring of Ares near the grove we passed by and bring back enough for us to purify us for the sacrifice."
Klytos nodded and beckoned for the others to follow. As they disappeared into the dense forest, Cadmus couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. He placed his hand on the cow's warm flank, feeling the steady rhythm of its breathing.
"I hope Athena favors us today," Cadmus murmured, gazing up at the darkening sky.
Deep in the woods, the grove's spring bubbled softly, its water glistening like liquid silver in the dim light. Klytos led the group toward the source, where they admired the beauty of the place.
"This is the purest water I've ever seen," remarked one of the younger men, dipping his hand into the cool water. "It's like it was blessed by the gods themselves."
"Perfect to appease Athena." Klytos smiled. "Then fill the vessels quickly. Cadmus waits for us."
As the men kneeled by the water's edge, a soft hiss broke through the tranquil sound of the spring. Klytos' ears twitched. He stood up, scanning the surrounding trees. The hiss came again, louder this time, and from the shadow of the forests and spring grove, something enormous began to stir.
Before Klytos could shout a warning, the ground trembled as a creature of nightmares slithered out of the forest and into the grove, a massive serpent-like dragon, its scales shimmering like gold under the faint light. Its crest-like head rose high above the ground, venomous teeth bared, dripping with deadly poison. Its eyes gleamed with malevolence, fixed on the men at the spring.
Klytos barely had time to draw his sword before the creature lunged. Its jaws snapped shut around one man with a sickening crunch, and chaos erupted. The men scrambled to defend themselves, but the serpent was too fast. Its tail lashed out, striking with the force of a battering ram, sending warriors flying into the trees like rag dolls. Screams filled the air as, one by one, the men fell to the Dragon.
Klytos, bloodied and breathing heavily, raised his sword for one last strike. But the serpent was quicker—its fangs sank into his chest, and with a final gurgling breath, Klytos crumpled to the ground.
The serpent, satisfied, hissed in triumph and coiled back into the forest near the spring grove, leaving only the death rattles and dead silence in its wake.
Cadmus paced around the makeshift altar for Athena as the sun had dipped below the horizon, and a blanket of stars began to stretch across the sky. Glancing anxiously toward the forest. Cadmus began to worry. His men had been gone far too long. He tightened his grip on his spear and turned to one of the remaining men.
"Stay here," he ordered. "I'm going to find them."
The forest was eerily quiet as Cadmus made his way toward the spring. The only sound was the rustling of leaves underfoot and the soft hum of crickets in the underbrush. But as he neared the spring, a fresh scent filled the air, coppery, thick, unmistakable the scent of blood.
Cadmus' heart pounded in his chest as he quickened his pace. When he broke through the trees and into the clearing, the scene before him froze him in place. His men, his trusted companions, lay scattered across the ground, their bodies mangled and lifeless. Blood pooled around their broken forms, staining the grass, and trickled into the stream.
"No…" Cadmus whispered, his voice hoarse with shock as he kneeled beside what was the upper half of Klytos' body, gently closing his friend's eyes for the last time. "I'm too late…"
A soft snoring sound broke the silence. Cadmus whipped around, spear ready, only to see a figure fast asleep. It was a man with whisker like birthmarks on his face, younger than him by at least five summers. His blond hair was tousled and his mouth slightly open as he dozed peacefully, completely oblivious to the carnage below him.
Cadmus, torn between disbelief and frustration, marched over to the tree the blonde young man was and began to climb up, yelling, "Wake up!"
Naruto was running from something. He looked behind to see a maw of an indescribably enormous beast that dwarfed mountains. Its maw was filled with a huge row of irregular jagged teeth that were the gate to the unknown. But the thing that that stood out to him the most was the single eye of the beast, a rippled red eye that bore at him as the jaws of the beast closed around.
"Wake up!" a voice echoed in the dream.
"Wake up!"
"Wake up!" the voice repeated, this time with a hard shove to Naruto's shoulder. His voice was thick with rage. "My men are dead!"
Naruto bolted upright, blinking in confusion, rubbing his eyes. "Wait, what? Dead? What happened?"
Naruto felt his surroundings and remembered he was resting on a thick branch of a tree that he had climbed at dawn and looked down to see a carnage of blood below him.
"Something…" a man's voice growled out, and Naruto stared at the voice direction to see a handsome man older than him in the branch next to his. The man's jaw clenched as he gestured to the dead bodies strewn around the grove and its stream. "Something slaughtered them all."
Naruto scrambled to his feet and stood on the thick branch, his gaze darting around the bloody clearing littered with shattered weapons and lifeless bodies. The air was thick with the stench of death and sulfur. He let out a low whistle, his voice tinged with disbelief. "This is…. They messed with something they shouldn't have."
"Did you have anything to do with this?" the man's voice cracked with fury at the apathetic behavior from Naruto and turns at him, fists trembling. "They're dead! Every single one of them! If you had stood by and watched them die-"
Naruto raised his hands in a calming gesture. "Look, I just found a good place to take a nap. I didn't do this. I must have slept through this."
"Then who did?" says the man as he glared at him, eyes burning with grief and rage and then felt a calming hand on his shoulder.
"I would help you… I am an excellent tracker and I am handy in a fight." Naruto tells him before nodding to himself, "I can also plan well, to make sure none of us die against whatever killed your men."
The man just stares at Naruto and tells him, "Do you know that you are talking to a prince?"
"Gods… this day gets stranger and stranger," mutters Naruto as scratched the back of his head, his thoughts racing. "Here is the plan. Well, for starters, we need to find what killed them and avoid it or kill it. I'll keep it busy, distract it, give you an opening to strike."
The man snorted. "That's not much of a plan… and my name and title is Prince Cadmus of Phoenicia. What is your name?"
Naruto just grinned and chuckled. "Call me Naruto…"
"Naruto…" Cadmus rolled the name of his tongue, "Sounds foreign, are you are a Greek, because that name you have isn't a Greek or Phoenician name?"
Naruto vaulted down the tree with one smooth jump, surprising Cadmus and grabbed a sword from one of the fallen men and inspected it before taking a few swings with it.
"How is it?" Cadmus asked him as Naruto slashed it through, "Swords are mostly for officers… I am sure Klytos will be happy that his sword will be used."
"I don't know… feels wrong in my hand." Naruto said before holding it a pose he never took before, "Feels unbalanced but it would do."
The two men steeled themselves, approaching the dark cave cautiously. The massive serpent was coiled in the shadows, its scales shimmering in hues of green and gold, each scale as thick as bronze plating. Its golden eyes glowed malevolently in the dark as it raised its enormous head, sensing their presence.
"Here we go," Naruto muttered, stretching his legs and drawing the blade he took.
Cadmus gripped his spear tightly, his knuckles white. "This ends now."
The serpent struck first, its fanged maw snapping toward them with deadly speed. Cadmus barely sidestepped the attack, his spear flashing out and grazing the serpent's thick hide. The creature hissed in fury, its massive coils thrashing the ground and shaking the earth beneath their feet, the vibrations reverberating through their bones.
Naruto's eyes gleamed with recklessness as he darted toward the serpent, sprinting straight for its head. In one fluid motion, he leaped onto its back with the air whistled past his ears as he ran up its length with the speed and agility of beyond the average human.
"Hey! You overgrew lizard brain!" Naruto shouted, slapping the serpent's head and hopping from scale to scale as it roared in frustration. A thunderous roar echoed through the forest, its sound so intense that it seemed to make the trees tremble and nearly throw Naruto off the dragon's scales. The smell of the snake's hot breath intermingled with the natural aroma of the forest, creating a strong, pungent fragrance in the air.
As the serpent wriggled and squirmed, Naruto skillfully balanced on its muscular coils, his agile movements resembling something he barely remembered, a shadow of a memory etched into his instincts.
"Cadmus, now! Go for the eyes!" Naruto called as he landed on top of the serpent's massive skull, just out of reach of its snapping jaws, and heaved backwards to pry them open. The serpent's scales scraped against each other, producing a grating sound that rang in their ears.
With lightning speed, Cadmus lunged forward, his spear poised with unwavering accuracy as he charged. His spear found its mark in the serpent's glowing eye, eliciting a deafening cry of pain from the creature as blood and venom spilled out from the wound.
Naruto's grin widened as the serpent thrashed wildly beneath him. "Not so tough now, are ya?" he taunted, gripping onto the beast's neck as it flailed. With a daring leap, he landed on its snout, dodging its fangs by mere inches. The rush of adrenaline coursed through his veins, his heart pounding in his chest as he courted death.
The serpent lunged at Naruto, its jaws wide, venom dripping from its fangs. But Naruto was too quick. With a swift backflip, he vaulted over its head, and the serpent—confused and blinded by its rage—bit down on its own tail instead. As the serpent's venom spilled into its mouth, the sickening sound of crunching bones permeated the air.
The venom coursed through its own body, and the massive creature shuddered violently, its death throes sending shockwaves through the earth. Beneath their feet, the ground rumbled, causing their knees to wobble from the tremor.
Cadmus rushed forward, driving his spear deeper into the serpent's skull and pinning it to the ground. The beast let out one final, ear-splitting screech before Naruto shattered the sword across its serpentine neck, beheading it.
With a thunderous crash, the dragon fell to the ground, its lifeless form now sprawled out before them. A haunting cry echoed through the forest, gradually fading into silence. The earth was filled with a metallic scent, a blend of blood and soil that lingered in the atmosphere. With labored breaths, Cadmus and Naruto stood victorious over the fallen serpent, the surrounding air saturated with the nauseating scent of venom and blood.
Naruto wiped the sweat from his forehead, feeling the coolness of the moisture against his skin, and panted heavily, his breaths loud and labored. "That… was intense," he said, his voice strained.
Cadmus, his chest rising and falling rapidly, nodded in agreement, the sound of his heavy breaths filling the air. His eyes remained fixated on the massive creature before them, its lifeless body sprawled out on the ground. The sight of its motionless form brought a sense of relief mixed with exhaustion.
As Naruto and Cadmus stood frozen in the battle's aftermath, a soft, ethereal glow began to envelop them, growing brighter with each passing moment. The air shimmered, charged with an unmistakable hum of divine power. The tension in the clearing eased slightly, but the air grew thick with something else.
In perfect synchrony, both men turned toward the source of the light, their gazes locking onto the figure emerging gracefully from the shadow light. A goddess stepped forward, her presence both magnificent and terrifying. Her golden armor, as radiant as the first light of dawn, gleamed under the soft moonlight, casting a luminous glow that bathed the entire clearing. Every step she took seemed to ripple with the subtle force of the divine, her sandals making no sound upon the earth.
Naruto recalled all the tales his mother taught him about the gods and realized who the goddess was, "That's Athena."
Athena was adorned in majestic robes that swayed with each movement, flowing like liquid silver over her armored form. The material seemed to shift and shimmer as though woven from the very threads of the cosmos itself. Over her robes, pieces of finely crafted Greek armor covered her form, each plate etched with detailed images of creatures, from gryphons with wings spread wide to the haunting eyes of sphinxes.
Athena's dirty blonde hair cascaded in soft waves beneath a regal gold helmet. Her hair caught the moonlight, the subtle hues shifting between strands of gold and bronze, creating an effect that seemed almost supernatural. Her eyes, stormy gray and filled with an intense, sharp intelligence, pierced the night with an otherworldly glow. They were both terrifying and awe-inspiring, reflecting the warlike aspect of the goddess, but also a profound depth of wisdom.
A serene aura surrounded her, quieting the chaos that still clung to the air. The very earth beneath their feet seemed to quiet in her presence, the trees bowed slightly as though acknowledging their superior. Time itself felt suspended, the world suddenly peaceful yet unnervingly tense, as though nature itself feared what might happen next. Her commanding gaze held them firmly in place, both men unable to speak, as if the goddess' mere presence had stripped away their words and breath.
Athena held a gleaming spear in one hand, its blade exuding an otherworldly light. In her other hand was a rectangular shield, its surface adorned with intricate designs of ancient symbols and powerful enchantments. They whispered of battles fought long ago, of gods and monsters clashing, and of a time when the world was still new and untamed.
"You two have slain the guardian of this spring," Athena said, her gaze shifting between the two men, her expression pleased and impressed. "But the death of the serpent is only the beginning. After all, he was the son of my foolish brother Ares."
In that moment, Naruto and Cadmus understood fully what it meant to stand before a goddess. Athena was more than divine; she was a force of nature, the embodiment of wisdom and war. Her beauty, while captivating, was not meant to comfort. It was the allure of the storm, the calm before the tempest, something far too dangerous to be admired for long.
Cadmus, his grip still tightly clutching his bloodied spear, stared at Athena in disbelief. "The son of Ares?"
Naruto's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and frustration crossing his face. He let out a groan; the sound escaping his lips with a tinge of exhaustion. "Great… just great. I didn't sign up for killing God's kids!"
Athena's lips curved into a faint smile, a subtle movement that conveyed reassurance to them. "Fear not, heroes. I can protect you, and I would tell you how."
Curiosity mixed with wariness filled Cadmus's voice as he asked, "What do I have to do?"
"You must take the teeth of the serpent," Athena instructed, her gaze piercing and sharp as ever, "And plant them on the ground. What follows will aid you in building your city."
Naruto blinked in disbelief, his palms open wide in a gesture of incredulity. "Plant the teeth? We just killed this thing, and now you want us to start farming?"
Athena's stormy gray eyes flashed with a hint of anger. "Do not question my wisdom."
"There is no point in arguing with the gods," hisses Cadmus at Naruto before he bows to Athena. "Of course, Lady Athena. Let's just do it, Naruto."
Athena nodded and disappeared in a flash of light.
Together, they worked to extract the massive teeth from the serpent's jaws, their hands slick with blood, the metallic scent filling the air. They gathered the teeth, each one as large as a dagger, their edges glinting wickedly in the dim light.
Cadmus led Naruto to a nearby field, the soil beneath their feet feeling soft and fertile. The remaining men of Cadmus's group plowed the land with a rare breed of ox, the sound of their hooves against the earth creating a steady rhythm. The ground trembled beneath their feet as Cadmus carefully planted the serpent's teeth, one by one, into the dark soil.
With each tooth that disappeared into the soil, an eerie energy surged beneath the surface, pulsating with a rhythmic intensity reminiscent of a heartbeat. As the earth trembled beneath their feet, they could feel the vibrations resonating through their bodies. Gradually, armored figures started to rise from the ground, their emergence accompanied by a deep, rumbling noise. With each planted tooth, a warrior emerged from the ground, their gleaming Greek armor catching the sunlight. Rising to their feet, the surrounding air was instantly filled with the reverberating sound of clashing metal, their movements perfectly synchronized and filled with purpose.
Naruto took a step back, his eyes widening with astonishment as he took in the sight before him. "Uh… did we just grow an army?"
Cadmus, though still in awe, nodded slowly, his voice filled with a mixture of wonder and realization. "It appears so."
However, the warriors, their bodies still covered in dirt, locked eyes with each other. With no time for words, they fearlessly launched themselves into each other. Their bronze swords creating a cacophony of deafening clashes. The air was filled with the sounds of battle, bronze on bronze, war cries echoing into the dawn as the Spartoi hacked and slashed at each other with ruthless efficiency.
"What in the world?" Naruto shouted over the chaos as he backed away. "Why are they fighting with each other?"
"I don't know!" Cadmus called back; his voice was tight with alarm. "Athena didn't mention this part!"
"Of course she didn't!" Naruto groaned, shaking his head in exasperation. "Gods and their cryptic messages…"
The battle raged on, and blood flowed freely into the soil from which the warriors had sprung. The ground became slick with it, and the air was thick with the stench of death and sweat. Finally, after what felt like hours, only five warriors remained standing. They were covered in blood, but their expressions were fierce, their bodies unbroken.
One warrior, tall and broad-shouldered with a thick black beard, stepped forward. His armor was dented and smeared with blood, but he held himself with pride. "Who commands us?" he asked, his voice rough but filled with a warrior's respect.
Cadmus stepped forward, weary but resolute. "I am Cadmus, son of Agenor. Sent here by the gods to build a new city."
The warrior grunted, wiping blood from his brow. "We are the Spartoi, the sown men. Born of the earth by the will of the gods. We are at your service, Cadmus."
Naruto rubbed the back of his neck, glancing at the carnage left behind. "Well… that was dramatic, but I guess it worked out."
Cadmus nodded, though a part of him still trembled at the memory of the battle. "If you are with me," he said to the five remaining Spartoi, "Then help me build this city. Together, we will create something that will stand the test of time."
The city of Cadmea rose steadily from the earth, its walls and towers a testament to the tireless efforts of Cadmus, Naruto, and the five Spartoi: Echion, Udaeus, Chthonius, Hyperenor, and Pelorus. Day after day, the sound of stone being set and wood being carved filled the air, and the once barren land slowly transformed into a bustling, fortified citadel.
Naruto wiped the sweat from his brow, the scent of fresh earth and stone mingling with the crisp air. He grinned as he stood atop the half-finished wall; the wind tousling his hair as he looked out across the plains below. The people of Cadmea moved like ants below, setting the final stones for homes and preparing for the influx of new citizens.
Echion, standing beside him, crossed his arms over his broad chest, his gruff voice breaking the silence. "It's coming together. Soon, this place will be unshakable."
Naruto chuckled, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Yeah, it's looking pretty good. You Spartoi are incredible with this stuff, building a city from scratch? I never would've thought we'd come this far."
Udaeus, working just a few feet away, glanced over and grinned. "You've kept up with us, Naruto. Not many could say the same. For someone not born of the earth or having a divine heritage like Cadmus, you have a strong body and spirit."
Naruto shrugged, his grin widening. "Hey, someone's gotta make sure you guys don't have all the fun. And besides, I can't let Cadmus have all the credit for this place."
The five Spartoi chuckled and ruffled Naruto's hair, much to the latter annoyance.
- (1982 BC)-
-Cadmea-
At last, the day arrived when Cadmea stood completely. The towering walls encircled the city, their stone unyielding and strong. Inside, streets lined with newly built homes and marketplaces hummed with the energy of people moving in, eager to begin their new lives.
Naruto and the Spartoi stood with Cadmus at the heart of the citadel, taking in the bustling scene. Cadmus' face, weathered from months of struggle and determination, softened as he gazed upon the finished city.
"We've done it," Cadmus said quietly, pride filling his voice.
Naruto, hands on his hips, flashed a grin. "Yeah, we did. I say we celebrate—there's already talk of a feast tonight."
Udaeus laughed heartily. "A feast sounds like just the thing after all this work. We deserve it."
Before Cadmus could respond, a shadow passed over the city, and the ground trembled beneath their feet. The joyous sounds of the people quieted, replaced by fearful murmurs, as the sky darkened. Storm clouds swirled overhead, and the air grew thick with tension. And a pillar of flame burst outside of the city.
Naruto's eyes narrowed, his muscles tensing. "Something's wrong…"
From within the pillar of flames, a massive figure started to materialize, its towering presence creating a dark silhouette that stretched across the city. Standing before them in all his glory, Ares, the god of war, cast an intimidating shadow with his towering height of twenty feet and his polished, dark armor. As he advanced towards the citadel, his eyes filled with an intense, fiery rage, causing the earth to tremble and fracture beneath his every stride.
Filled with terror, the citizens of Cadmea reacted by dispersing, with many of them fleeing to their homes or huddling fearfully in the streets. Despite their unwavering stance and tight grip on their weapons, even the Spartoi seemed hesitant in the presence of the towering god.
As Naruto advanced, his fists were tightly balled, ready for action. Just as Naruto was about to make a move, Cadmus swiftly extended his hand and clutched Naruto's arm. Despite the low pitch of his voice, it remained resolute and firm. "No. Don't fight him. We can't risk it."
Naruto turned to him, incredulous. "You're just going to let him destroy everything we've built? After all this?"
Cadmus' face was etched with resolve, but there was a deep sadness in his eyes. "I won't let that happen. But there's another way."
Ares' voice boomed across the city; his burning gaze fixing on Cadmus. "Cadmus son of Agenor! You ended my son's life… And now you think you can construct a city on his remains!? Athena's protection will not protect you from my wrath!"
Cadmus stepped forward, his head bowed, but his voice steady. "I know what I've done, Ares. I took your son's life to protect the people. But I beg you to spare this city. Let the people live."
Ares narrowed his fiery eyes. "You think I will let this go unpunished? That I will simply walk away? Pick up your spear! And face me or I will- Damn the Ancient Laws."
Cadmus took a deep breath, his voice filled with quiet determination. "No. I will do anything. I will serve yo, no questions, no resistance. But you got to swear on the River Styx that you will leave this city and its people untouched."
Naruto, stunned, looked at Cadmus in disbelief and gripped his shoulder and shook them. "What the Hades are you saying? You don't have to do this!"
Cadmus turned to Naruto, his expression calm but filled with the weight of his decision. "I have to, Naruto. This city means everything. I have given too much to lose it now."
"Eight years… Very well, mortal!" Ares let out a thunderous laugh, his voice reverberating through the city. "I swear on the River Styx! You will serve me, and I will let your precious city stand. But know this: you will regret every moment. The fields of punishment are going to be Elysium for you."
With a final, cruel smile, Ares turned and vanished into the dark clouds above, his presence leaving an oppressive weight hanging over the city. Slowly, the clouds began to dissipate, and the light of the setting sun returned, casting a warm glow over the streets once more.
The citizens of Cadmea emerged cautiously from their homes, murmuring in confusion and relief. The threat had passed, but the coast was clear: Cadmus was leaving them to serve the god of war.
Naruto clenched his fists, his voice tight with frustration. "You didn't have to do that. I could've helped. We could've found another way."
Cadmus placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, his voice gentle. "There was no other way to appease someone like Lord Ares. We couldn't afford to lose everything, not after all I've been through."
Naruto's jaw tightened, but he finally nodded, understanding the burden Cadmus had taken upon himself. "Fine. But while you're gone, I'll look after this place. I swear it."
- (1978 BC)-
-Cadmea-
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the city in hues of gold and amber, Naruto stood atop the citadel's walls, gazing out over the bustling streets. Echion approached him, his once-dark beard now streaked with gray, his face weathered but proud.
"Five years have passed, and you still look the same," Echion remarked, his voice filled with curiosity. "The people wonder… How is it you have not aged?"
Naruto shrugged, offering a wry smile. "It's just how I am. But I'm still the same Naruto. And as long as Cadmea needs me, I'll stay here… I am the best governor out of you all in Cadmea. I mean, I feel like I did this before- That weird I forgot what I was going to say."
Echion gave him a look of concern. "You've become more than just a lord to this city, Naruto. Don't work yourself to death…"
Naruto leaned against the wall, watching the people below go about their lives. "I never thought I'd find a place like this," he admitted quietly, as his eyes become misty. "But Cadmus gave me a reason to stay here. And I'll be here until he comes back. I miss my mother… I wonder how she is doing. I must be a terrible son to have left her alone this whole time."
Echion placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, his grip strong. "I might not have any parents, but I am sure your mother is proud of you."
Naruto's silence was enough for Echion to realize he knew little about Naruto's past. "I have a question… Where did you learn to write and read? Cadmus taught us during the months we built the city, but you picked it up faster than any of us."
"I don't know, but my Mother knows the ancient tongue and the tongue of these times. She says she had learned how to write and read thanks to her sister's teaching." Naruto says with a shrug as he unfurled a papyrus scroll and techs, "Her knowledge just rubbed off me. More importantly, who allowed this transfer of these grains?!"
- (1975 BC)-
-Cadmea-
After eight long years, Cadmus finally returned to the citadel he had founded and found it had turned into a city. He had served his sentence under Ares with dignity and honor, enduring the hardships of servitude without complaint, that made the gods and even Ares impressed by him. When he stepped through the gates of his city, the people erupted into cheers, overjoyed at the return of their leader.
Naruto was waiting for him at the gates, his grin wide and welcoming. "Welcome home, Cadmus."
Cadmus, though tired from his years of service, smiled warmly as he embraced and clapped his Naruto shoulder. "It's good to be back… Naruto, you look like you haven't aged a day!"
Naruto laughed and waved it off, his eyes gleaming with pride. "We kept it going, but it wasn't easy without you. None of are of royal blood. We had to keep the surrounding City States and their kings off this land."
The five Spartoi gathered around them, their families now firmly established as the noble houses of Cadmea. The city had thrived in Cadmus' absence, its walls sturdy, its people prosperous, and its reputation growing throughout the land as a place of trade and fortitude. But as Cadmus looked upon his city, there was a sense of pride mingled with an unshakable sorrow in his eyes, a reminder of the years he had spent serving Ares in silence, away from the city he had built.
Naruto patted Cadmus on the back, his grin unwavering. "You missed a lot, but don't worry. We kept things running smoothly. I think you'll find it wasn't all bad while you were gone."
"He is hiding how much trouble he went through." Chthonius says to Cadmus much to Naruto glare, "He went to stop an invading Orchomenus army by himself… No one knows what happened on the battlefield. When he returned, to our surprise, the King of Orchomenus immediately sent a treaty to for his state be our subordinate state. Naruto just asked them to be absorbed into the Cadmea state and deposed their king and arranged a marriage agreement with all of five of their princesses to be our wives for peace to happen."
Cadmus' lips curled into a soft smile, but his eyes still seemed distant. "I always knew you'd protect and care for it, Naruto," he whispered. "This place… it's more than just a city to me. It's everything I've fought for. And now, to see it like this last all my life."
Echion, standing nearby, placed a hand on Cadmus' shoulder. His once-black beard had gone almost, but his presence remained as strong as ever. "We made sure Cadmea stood tall, Cadmus. But now that you're back, it will only grow stronger. You built this city, and we protected it in your absence. But it will always be your legacy."
Naruto chuckled, but there was a note of seriousness in his voice. "You know, Cadmus, these last eight years haven't been easy. I mean, look at these guys," he gestured toward the Spartoi, "they're all married, kids running around, starting families. But me? I'm still the same as the day you left. People talk, they wonder why I haven't changed. I need to get out of the city before they start to take me for a deity."
Cadmus frowned. "You haven't aged?"
Naruto shook his head, his grin fading. "Nope. Not even a little. No gray hairs, no wrinkles. Just me. I don't know why I have not aged… I will ask my mother about this. Maybe she knows what this is."
Cadmus looked at him, his expression thoughtful. "Perhaps it's a blessing… or a curse. Time doesn't seem to touch you."
Naruto shrugged. "I don't know what it is. Maybe it's just how I am. But I'm not complaining. I've got work to do; I'll keep doing it. But I want to leave to visit my mom. I have not seen her for years."
Cadmus placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, his grip firm and grateful. "You can go see your mum, but I have one selfish request from me. I want you to be at the wedding."
"What wedding?" Naruto asked in confusion.
"Mine, I am getting married to Harmonia." Cadmus spoke with a grin of affection, his voice filled with adoration, "She is the best. Ares gave me his daughter's hand in marriage…"
"Wait, you're actually getting married to a goddess? You must be the luckiest man in the world," Naruto murmurs playfully, a smile lighting up his face. "Who would be invited?"
"All the gods on Olympus." Cadmus tells him and Naruto's smile partly fades and lets out a sigh.
"Ah, this is gonna be a drag to pull it off. The treasury demand is going to go over the budget limits. I do not want this to happen," Naruto said with a shake of his head, "But for you dear Cadmus, I will do it."
That night, the people of Cadmea gathered for a grand celebration in honor of Cadmus' return. The streets were alive with the sound of music and laughter, the scent of roasted meats and fresh bread filling the air. Fires burned brightly in the city's central square, and the citizens danced and sang in celebration of their leader's homecoming.
Cadmus sat at the head of a long banquet table surrounded by his closest friends and allies. The Spartoi were there with their wives and children, the next generation of Cadmea's leaders already beginning to take shape. Naruto sat beside Cadmus, his plate piled high with food, though his eyes often wandered over the crowd, keeping watch as he always did.
As the night wore on, Cadmus leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting over the city he had built. There was a deep sense of fulfillment in his heart, knowing that despite the years of servitude to Ares, he had returned to find his city thriving. The people were happy; the walls were strong, and the legacy of Cadmea would continue for generations.
Naruto noticed the look on Cadmus' face and nudged him gently. "You're thinking too much, old man. Relax a little."
"You can't call me an old man… How old are you, again?" Cadmus asked Naruto with a half hearted glare.
"I am twenty-seven summers old." Naruto tells him with a shake of his head, "You are thirty-three. Those five had grown from the dirt as middle-aged men and are about to become elders in another decade."
"There is the humor that I missed from you," Cadmus chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I can't help it. This city… it's everything I ever wanted. I just hope it stays this way."
Naruto leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms behind his head. "It will. You got good people here. They'll carry on what you started. And hey, if anyone causes trouble, you've got me when I come back, but still those five will be able to set them straight in my absence."
Echion, sitting nearby, raised his cup of orange juice in a toast. "To Cadmus! The founder of Cadmea, and the reason this city stands proud today!"
The others joined in, their voices echoing through the square as they lifted their cups in unison. "To Cadmus!"
Cadmus smiled, raising his own cup. "To all of us," he echoed back before he whispered to Naruto. "This city is built on the strength of every one of us. And it will stand for generations because of that."
The night wore on, and as the celebrations continued, Cadmus, Naruto, and the five Spartoi sat together in a quiet corner of the square, away from the noise and bustle.
Echion broke the comfortable silence, his voice low but firm. "The city is strongest in this region now, but the world is always changing. We'll need to keep building, keep improving, to ensure Cadmea remains secure. I heard Athens is expanding their reaches to unify all of Attica. I am pretty sure they won't just stop at Attica."
Naruto nodded; his expression was unusually serious. "Yeah. And we need to make sure the army is ready for anything. You never know when trouble might show up."
Cadmus looked at them both, his heart swelling with pride.
And so, as the night faded and the first light of dawn began to break over the horizon, Cadmus, Naruto, and the Spartoi sat in quiet contemplation before Naruto asked them, "So when will we announce the wedding to the city?"
A/N: Hello this is R8handma. I have planned this story, and it is still starting. Naruto is with Cadmus in the city that would eventually be named Thebes. Ancient Greek Mythology is hard to make sense chronology wise. Like we get Europa and her son Minos being born at least five generations before Theseus and Heracles. Supposedly there are two king Minos, both the son of Zeus in a different generation. As for the other Pantheons, we will start to explore them after the Trojan War.
As for Shinjutsu abilities and Otsutsuki and Naruto ninjutsu, I found a good way to deal with it without nerfing them and Naruto. Many of you had mentioned TSO and how it could negate regeneration of the gods, and you are right.
Now on to the questions and reviews:
NaruLemon Stories (Chapter 2): Oh Lys is going to be important to the story, so I hope nothing happens to her, but I can't make promises.
RedFistCannon (Chapter 2): Naruto prankster nature is dwelling inside him waiting to be unleashed by a certain trickster.
Whatif-inator (Chapter 2): Oh the canon story and some events would definitely happen, but it will be changed. The status quo would be quite different mythology wise.