1885, An Unnamed Frontier Town
The sun was setting, casting red and orange light over the worn buildings of the small town. Dust swirled in the breeze, making the wooden saloon sign creak as it moved. This was a rough place, where most people came and went without leaving a trace.
Seven-year-old Naruto Uzumaki ran down the main street, his spiky blonde hair catching the fading light. He held a small leather pouch tightly to his chest, panting as he ran. Behind him, three men shouted angrily.
"Come back here, you little thief!" one of them yelled. He raised his rifle but cursed as Naruto darted into a narrow alley, sending chickens squawking as he passed.
Naruto's heart pounded. He looked around, hoping for a way out, but there was none. The men were getting closer, their footsteps loud and heavy. One of them, a tall man with a scar on his cheek, stepped into the alley. He smirked and raised his boot, ready to kick.
"Gentleman, leave the boy alone."
The voice came from the end of the alley. The scarred man turned to see three figures stepping out of the shadows. Leading them was a man with sharp eyes and a confident grin. Beside him was an older man with a kind smile, and next to him stood a young, strong-looking man with a serious face.
The serious man put his hand on his gun and spoke firmly. "I said, leave the boy alone."
The scarred man looked at the three newcomers and scowled. "This ain't your business." he said, though he sounded less sure.
The leader stepped forward, his grin widening. "It is now. So, unless you want to find out how quick my friend Arthur is, I suggest you leave."
The scarred man's eyes darted around, and after a tense moment, he spat on the ground and backed away. "You'll regret this." he muttered as he and the others left.
The young man, Arthur, relaxed and looked at Naruto. "You alright, kid?"
Naruto nodded, catching his breath. The leader stepped forward and crouched down, giving Naruto a friendly smile. "Name's Dutch. That's Arthur." he said, nodding at the serious man, "and this here is Hosea."
The older man, Hosea, smiled. "Nice to meet you, son. You've got some spirit to take that risk."
Naruto took a shaky breath and found his voice. "I'm Naruto."
Dutch stood up and glanced at Arthur and Hosea. "Well, Naruto, looks like today's your lucky day."
The men turned and started walking, and Dutch waved him forward. "Come on, kid. Let's get out of here before those men change their minds."
Naruto hesitated for a moment, then followed. When they reached the edge of town, Arthur helped him onto the back of his horse. "Hold on tight, kid." Arthur said with a small chuckle.
Hosea mounted his horse and gave Naruto a reassuring nod. "Stay close now. We don't want to lose you after just finding you."
As the horses started moving, Naruto clung to Arthur's coat. The cool wind and the sound of hooves calmed him, and for the first time in a long while, he felt safe.
Dutch's voice called back as they rode into the open plains. "You've got a lot to learn, Naruto. But if you're willing, we might just have a place for you."
Naruto smiled, hope flickering inside him. Maybe he had found something more than just another place to run from.
The next years of Naruto's life were spent learning, surviving, hunting, robbing, killing, and everything in between. Dutch's camp became his home, and the members of the Van der Linde gang became his family. A month after Dutch had saved him from those chasing him, he brought in another boy—a 12-year-old named John Marston.
Naruto still remembered how annoyed he was the first day John arrived at camp. John, with a smirk and a twinkle of mischief in his eyes, called him "whisker boy," pointing out the three whisker-like birthmarks on each side of Naruto's face. Naruto's fists had balled up, ready to show this new kid exactly who he was dealing with. But before things could escalate, Arthur stepped between them, chuckling and shaking his head.
From that rocky start, their bond only grew stronger. They survived together, learning to trust one another through hardship and danger. Arthur, John, and Naruto became a trio—brothers in everything but blood. They hunted side by side, shared meals by the campfire, and learned from Dutch and Hosea the skills they would need to thrive and survive. Each knew that if trouble came, the others would be there, ready to fight.
As the years passed, they each developed their own personalities. Arthur grew to be a steady, strong presence in the gang. He had a practical mind and a quiet sense of loyalty that everyone respected. He wasn't one to show his emotions easily, but Naruto and John knew the depth of his care through the little things—a shared laugh, a protective glance, or a helping hand after a tough job.
John, on the other hand, was more reckless and outspoken. He had a sharp tongue and a habit of getting into trouble, which Naruto teased him for endlessly. Despite his rough edges, John was fiercely loyal and would risk everything for those he considered family. The teasing nickname "whisker boy" eventually turned into a fond joke between them, one that only strengthened their bond.
Naruto, meanwhile, retained his boundless energy and hopeful spirit. As he grew taller and stronger, his skills as a hunter, tracker, and gunman grew to become almost unmatched by most. His laughter was contagious, lifting spirits even in the hardest times, but everyone knew that when danger threatened the gang, he became a fierce and relentless protector.
Together, Arthur, John, and Naruto faced the harsh realities of life in the West. They learned to take what they needed and survive by whatever means necessary. Through rain and shine, through losses and victories, they became more than just outlaws—they became brothers.
Over the years, the Van der Linde gang grew, welcoming new members who brought their own unique skills and personalities to the group. Each new arrival changed the dynamic, adding layers to the makeshift family that Naruto had come to cherish.
Susan Grimshaw had been a steady figure in the gang long before Naruto arrived. She was a sharp, no-nonsense woman with a commanding presence that kept the camp in line. Susan took on the role of camp manager, ensuring that everyone pulled their weight and that order was maintained. She wasn't one to show much warmth, but Naruto saw the fierce loyalty she had for the gang. Over time, she became a guiding figure, someone he respected and occasionally butted heads with, especially when his youthful energy led to chaos in camp.
Leopold Strauss joined sometime after Naruto had settled in. The thin, quiet man with a strong German accent quickly took on the role of the gang's financier. Strauss's job was to lend money to people in town and out on the plains, collecting debts with interest. Naruto didn't fully understand Strauss's work at first, but as he grew older, he realized the importance of Strauss's role. The man was meticulous, calculating, and never one for warmth, but his contribution kept the gang afloat during hard times. Naruto learned to keep his distance, sensing Strauss's focus on business rather than bonds.
Bill Williamson came next. A hulking man with a hot temper and a penchant for trouble, Bill's arrival was marked by an unforgettable fight that broke out on the outskirts of camp. He was rough around the edges, quick to anger, and always ready for a brawl. At first, Naruto wasn't sure what to make of Bill's loud, sometimes reckless behavior, but as time passed, he saw that Bill's bravado masked a deep-seated desire for acceptance and respect. Bill wasn't the smartest member of the gang, but he was fiercely loyal, and Naruto grew to respect him as another brother-in-arms.
Then came the older man they all called Uncle. Uncle was, as he often claimed, an "old-timer" with a wealth of dubious wisdom and endless stories, most of which no one believed. He was lazy, always avoiding work and quick to complain about his "lumbago," a condition he blamed for his lack of effort. Naruto, John, and Arthur often shared knowing glances whenever Uncle spun one of his tall tales, sometimes exchanging playful jabs about who could make Uncle do the most work in a day. Despite his flaws, Uncle had a certain charm that endeared him to the camp. He was the type of man who, while rarely dependable, would surprise everyone with a moment of unexpected courage or insight when it mattered most.
As the gang expanded, Naruto watched how these new additions changed their little world. Each person brought a piece of themselves, adding complexity to the camp. Susan's stern guidance kept things running smoothly; Strauss's cold practicality ensured they always had money flowing; Bill's strength added muscle when needed; and Uncle's odd humor provided levity, even if it was met with groans more often than not.
The Van der Linde gang continued to grow, new faces joining and adding their own stories to the camp. It wasn't long before Uncle introduced a woman named Abigail Roberts. Abigail had a sharp tongue and a smile that could disarm the most hardened outlaw. She had worked as a prostitute before joining the gang, and it was known that she'd been involved with many of the men in camp. For Naruto, Abigail represented a mixture of confusion and attachment. She was the woman who had taken his virginity, marking a significant, if complicated, milestone in his young life. Because of this, Naruto held a soft spot for her that went beyond simple attraction, it was a connection that made him feel both protective and nostalgic whenever she was around.
Abigail, despite her rough beginnings and the gossip that surrounded her, had a fierce loyalty to the gang and an unyielding determination to carve out a better life for herself. She wasn't one to back down from an argument, and Naruto often found himself listening to her playful bickering with the other members, smirking as she held her own against even the most stubborn of them.
Not long after Abigail joined, a Mexican man named Javier Escuella appeared. Javier brought with him stories of revolutions, distant lands, and a passion for music that quickly set him apart. He had an easy smile and an air of charm that made him likable to almost everyone. Naruto, intrigued by Javier's talent, asked him for guitar lessons. The lessons became a regular part of their days when the camp was calm, with Javier patiently guiding Naruto's hands and teaching him Spanish songs. Those lessons were moments of peace, reminders that there was more to life than survival and conflict.
Simon Pearson was the next to join, bringing with him a hearty laugh and a wealth of stories from his time as a navy chef. His arrival transformed the camp's meals from basic fare to hearty, comforting dishes that lifted the gang's spirits. Pearson's grumbling about supplies and his insistence on proper meals added a touch of humor to the long days, and Naruto enjoyed sitting by the fire listening to him tell tales of the sea while stirring a pot or fixing up rations.
It was about this time that the gang became more than just a group of outlaws—it became a community of people with different dreams and burdens, all bound by a shared hope for a life free from the chains of society. Through it all, Naruto grew stronger, wiser, and even more fiercely loyal to the ragtag family that had taken him in.
The gang continued to expand with new faces, each bringing their own unique traits and stories. The next to come was Karen Jones, a sharp-witted scam artist who could charm her way through any situation. Karen was known for her silver tongue, quick thinking, and ability to drink more alcohol than the rest of the camp combined. She fit into the gang seamlessly, adding energy and mischief to their gatherings. Naruto found her both amusing and fascinating; her fearlessness and quick laugh made her a staple at the campfire, where stories were shared, and the burdens of their lives were momentarily forgotten.
Not long after Karen, the camp gained Orville Swanson, a former priest turned hopeless drunk. Swanson's presence was marked by the clink of bottles and slurred words. He spent most days stumbling around or sleeping off the night before, contributing little but taking up space. Yet, there was a strange wisdom hidden behind his unfocused eyes, a past life that hinted at something deeper. Naruto didn't understand him at first, but over time, he learned that even the broken had stories worth telling. Swanson's moments of sobriety were rare but filled with muttered confessions and reflections that made Naruto wonder about redemption and loss.
Then came Josiah Trelawny, a man who was more of a guest than a permanent member but who had a significant impact whenever he was around. Trelawny was an outlaw of a different breed—smooth, sophisticated, and theatrical. He dressed like a gentleman and spoke with the cadence of a stage actor. Naruto was drawn to Trelawny's stories and flair, listening intently whenever the man would recount his adventures in conning the wealthy or escaping with pockets full of gold. Trelawny's way of being an outlaw wasn't about brute force but cunning and deception, and Naruto found himself soaking up every lesson and tale the man was willing to share. Whenever Trelawny shared his stories, Naruto listened intently, he asked questions, absorbed tips on reading people, and practiced speaking with confidence. Trelawny, amused by Naruto's curiosity, would offer advice and teach him some tricks he learned.
Naruto's skills grew, blending what he learned from Arthur's strength and Dutch's leadership with Trelawny's cunning. He realized that in a world where strength alone wasn't enough, Trelawny's teachings would give him an edge.
These new members continued to add complexity to the camp's dynamics. Karen's sharp humor and wild antics kept spirits high, even in the most stressful times. Swanson's presence, while mostly pitied, served as a constant reminder of how easily a person could fall into ruin. And Trelawny's visits brought a touch of sophistication and a different perspective on how to navigate the outlaw's life.
Naruto, now older and more experienced, learned from each of them in different ways. From Karen, he picked up the art of quick thinking and improvisation. Swanson's tragic decline taught him that the line between strength and weakness was thinner than it seemed, and Trelawny's lessons in charm and deception added a layer of finesse to Naruto's growing arsenal of skills.
Then came Mac Callander and Davey Callander, two brothers whose loyalty to the gang was never in question but whose methods were as rough as they came. They were fierce, willing to do whatever needed to be done, and Naruto learned quickly to keep his distance when their tempers flared. Still, their brutal nature had its place, especially when the gang needed muscle to send a message or defend itself.
Not long after, Mary-Beth Gaskill joined the gang. With her gentle voice and love for books, she was a stark contrast to the Callander brothers. Mary-Beth and Naruto became fast friends, often sitting by the fire as she talked about the stories she was reading or her dreams of writing her own book one day. Naruto would listen intently, genuinely enjoying her enthusiasm and the way her eyes lit up when she spoke about a story she loved.
Sometimes, she'd ask him to keep an eye out for books she wanted, and Naruto made it a point to search for them during their various heists and trips into town. It became a small but meaningful mission for him, and Mary-Beth's smile when he found something she liked made it all worthwhile.
Mary-Beth's dream of writing her own book was something Naruto always encouraged. "You should do it." he'd say, nudging her gently. "You've got the stories in you, and people need to hear them." Her face would flush with a mix of embarrassment and hope whenever he said that, and it spurred her on to keep writing in the small journal she kept hidden under her things.
By 1894, the camp saw a new chapter unfold when John and Abigail got together, becoming a couple. For Naruto, this was a time of mixed emotions. Abigail had been the first woman he'd been with, a memory that held a special place in his heart even though he knew it probably meant little to her. She had been involved with many of the men in camp over the years, and he accepted that fact, but it didn't change how their shared moment had felt to him.
Naruto found himself grappling with a confusing mix of feelings. Part of him held a soft spot for Abigail, a connection formed by that brief, intimate encounter. Yet, when he saw her with John—laughing together, sharing quiet moments—he couldn't help but feel a pang of something deeper. But above all, he felt happiness for John. John was his brother, and seeing him find someone who brought him joy was enough for Naruto to push aside any lingering confusion.
He kept these emotions hidden, choosing to focus on what mattered most: the bond he shared with John. Naruto knew that no matter what, he would never do anything to come between them. He resolved to channel his loyalty into supporting his brother and keeping the peace in the only family he had ever known.
In 1895, the gang celebrated the birth of a new member—Jack Marston, the son of John and Abigail. The occasion should have been joyous, but John's reaction cast a shadow over it. Naruto noticed the troubled look in John's eyes, the way he distanced himself from Abigail and the baby. It didn't take long for Naruto to piece together that John felt unprepared, scared even, to take on the role of a father.
The following year, in 1896, John's doubts boiled over. He left the gang, claiming that Jack might not even be his. His departure sent shockwaves through the camp. Arthur's anger was palpable; he felt betrayed by the brother he had grown up with. Naruto knew Arthur's fury went deeper than John's absence—it was rooted in loss. Arthur had once had a family, and seeing John walk away from his own must have struck a nerve, leaving a bitter taste that he couldn't shake.
During John's absence, Naruto stepped up. At only 18 years old, he was just barely a man himself, but he took on the responsibility of helping Abigail care for Jack. The small child grew attached to Naruto, and Naruto found himself fiercely protective of the boy. He took on tasks that were new to him—rocking Jack to sleep on restless nights, fetching food, and even playing games to make the baby laugh. Despite the hardship, Naruto embraced his role with determination and an unwavering sense of duty.
When John returned in 1897, most of the gang welcomed him back, though not without some lingering resentment. Naruto felt a mix of emotions. He was angry at John for abandoning his family, for leaving Abigail and Jack to fend for themselves. But more than that, he was relieved to have his brother back. He pushed his anger aside, focusing instead on the hope that things could be mended.
Arthur, however, did not share Naruto's willingness to forgive so easily. The relationship between Arthur and John grew strained, a tension that hung heavy in the air whenever they were near each other. Naruto often found himself playing mediator, stepping between them when arguments flared and diffusing the tension before it could erupt. He knew that Arthur's harshness came from a place of hurt and that John's guilt only made matters worse.
Despite the difficulties, Naruto kept the peace as best as he could. He watched over Jack, supported Abigail, and stood by both Arthur and John, even when it seemed impossible to bridge the gap between them. The gang continued forward, each member carrying their own burdens, and Naruto did his best to hold on to the fragile bonds that kept their family together.
More members joined soon after, the first of which being Tilly Jackson who joined after fleeing from the Foreman Brothers gang. Dutch found her alone and struggling to survive, taking her in and teaching her to read, just as he had done for Arthur, Naruto and John. This act of kindness earned Dutch Tilly's deep loyalty, and she quickly adapted to life in the camp. Naruto admired her strength and resilience, and they developed a bond over shared stories and quiet moments by the fire, both finding comfort in each other's company as they faced the challenges of their outlaw lives.
Then came Molly O'Shea, a refined Irish woman who captured Dutch's attention and eventually became his lover. Molly's presence changed the dynamic of the camp, adding an element of sophistication and tension. Though she tried to fit in, there was always a sense of distance between her and the rest of the gang. Naruto often noticed the way Molly would watch Dutch with longing eyes when he was preoccupied with plans and speeches, yearning for his attention.
Not long after, Sean MacGuire joined. A boisterous, fiery Irishman with a love for trouble, Sean brought a new level of chaos to camp life. His stories were wild, full of exaggeration and laughter, and he had a knack for making everyone join in on his antics. For Naruto, Sean became another brother in arms—hot-headed and always eager to prove himself, especially to Arthur. Sean's attempts to impress Arthur often led to humorous situations or near disasters, and Naruto would sometimes be the one to either join in or roll his eyes at Sean's antics.
Despite his recklessness, Sean was loyal, and Naruto respected that. The bond between them grew through shared missions and late-night conversations by the fire. Sean's loud, infectious laughter brought life to the camp, even during hard times, and Naruto found himself appreciating Sean's fearless approach to life.
Then came Lenny Summers, a young man who was bright, sharp-witted, and eager to prove himself. Lenny had faced his share of tragedy but carried himself with a determined spirit that stood out in the gang. His intelligence and sense of humor made him easy to befriend, and Naruto appreciated Lenny's quick thinking during jobs and how he could find a way to smile even in tough situations. They bonded over late-night talks by the fire, sharing stories that revealed their hopes and dreams, both knowing that in their line of work, such moments were precious.
Charles Smith joined not long after—a quiet, formidable man with a deep sense of honor. Charles was skilled in hunting, tracking, and fighting, bringing an unmatched strength and resourcefulness to the gang. He preferred to observe and listen rather than speak, but when he did, his words carried weight. Naruto respected Charles's calm, grounded nature and often joined him on hunting trips, learning from his silent but powerful presence. They developed a mutual trust, an understanding built on their shared need to protect the gang and maintain their personal codes.
Jenny Kirk was the next to arrive, discovered abandoned by the roadside on a cold evening. Jenny's youth and hopeful nature brought a touch of light to the camp that hadn't been there before. She was eager to help in any way she could, her eyes always shining with a kind of innocence that the rest of the gang had lost long ago. Naruto took on a protective, older-brother role with her, making sure she felt safe and teaching her small tricks to get by in the camp. Her laughter reminded him of what they were all fighting for—a glimpse of freedom and a life where they weren't constantly looking over their shoulders.
The camp evolved with these new faces. Lenny's energy, Charles's steadfast strength, and Jenny's hopeful spirit brought new dimensions to the group.
Then came Micah Bell. From the moment he joined, something about him put Naruto on edge. Unlike the Callander brothers, who were ruthless but fiercely loyal and never crossed the line when it came to protecting the gang, Micah was unpredictable and reckless. In just the few months he'd been around, Micah had already caused more problems than most new members combined.
Naruto's distrust of Micah grew after an incident that nearly cost him his life. One night, Micah had started an unnecessary fight in a bar, his loud mouth and quick temper sparking a confrontation that spiraled out of control. What began as an exchange of insults escalated into a full-blown gunfight, forcing Naruto and Arthur to leap into action. Naruto, alongside Arthur, found himself in the thick of it, bullets flying and chaos erupting around them. The two of them had to fight their way out, killing at least two dozen men between them just to escape with their lives.
When the dust settled and they managed to make it back to camp, Naruto's frustration reached a breaking point. Without hesitation, he stormed up to Micah, fists clenched and eyes blazing. Before anyone could react, Naruto punched Micah square in the face, sending him sprawling to the ground. The camp went silent as Naruto jumped on top of him, fists flying in a blind rage. Each punch landed with a thud, splattering blood as Micah's face grew bruised and swollen.
"Enough, Naruto!" voices shouted as several members of the gang rushed to pull him off. Arthur and Charles grabbed him by the shoulders, hauling him back as he struggled to break free, still seething with anger. Micah sat up slowly, blood dripping from his nose and split lip, eyes narrowing in defiance even through the pain.
Dutch stepped in, his face stern and voice sharp. "Naruto, that's enough." he said, trying to command control over the situation. He paused, looking between Naruto and the battered Micah. "What Micah did was reckless, I agree, but you can't just react like that."
Naruto's eyes, still blazing, locked onto Dutch. "He nearly got us killed, Dutch. Arthur and I almost died Dutch! He doesn't care about any of us!" His voice was hoarse, raw with frustration. Dutch's attempts at balancing discipline and loyalty only fueled the fire burning in Naruto's chest. He couldn't believe Dutch was defending Micah, even after what had happened.
The camp remained tense as Naruto pulled himself away, heart pounding and blood still thrumming in his ears.
For many in the camp, it was the first time they saw Naruto truly angry. He was the one known for his boundless energy, the one who always seemed to have a joke or a reassuring word ready to lighten even the heaviest moods. Naruto was the man who could keep a smile on his face when everything around them was falling apart, the one who lifted their spirits when hope seemed distant. To see him lose that composure, to see raw fury in the eyes of the man who always kept them laughing and pushed them to keep going—it sent a chill through the camp.
For many, it was all the more reason not to trust Micah. If someone like Naruto, the cheerful, dependable force who always kept the camp's spirits high, could be driven to such rage, then it spoke volumes about the kind of trouble Micah brought with him. His reckless actions and smug defiance had already sown seeds of doubt among the gang, and seeing Naruto, who rarely lost his temper, to snap like that was proof enough for most that Micah was a dangerous person to keep around.
Then came the events of Blackwater, the day that changed everything. Naruto wasn't sure what had gone wrong. Arthur, Hosea and him had been out scouting when the sound of gunfire reached them, sharp and relentless in the distance. The three exchanged tense glances before rushing towards the chaos, hearts pounding with the weight of what they might find.
Naruto arrived at the edge of the town just in time to see chaos erupting around him. Pinkertons flooded the streets, their rifles blazing as they shouted orders and pressed their attack. The sound of gunfire and panicked screams filled the air, blending into a cacophony of violence. His eyes darted through the fray until he spotted Jenny, her face pale with fear as she tried to find cover.
A Pinkerton raised his rifle, aiming at Jenny with deadly intent. Naruto's instincts took over—he drew his revolver in a blur and fired, the bullet finding its mark in the man's skull. The Pinkerton crumpled, blood pooling on the dusty ground as Jenny gasped in shock. Naruto ran to her side, grabbing her arm and pulling her up. "Come on, we need to go!" he shouted over the gun fire.
With Jenny in tow, they sprinted through the gun smoke-filled streets, ducking behind crates and weaving through alleys. Six more Pinkertons spotted them, rifles raised, but Naruto moved faster. He fired shot after shot, each bullet striking true and cutting down the men before they could react. The bodies fell, and the chaos surged around them, but Naruto pushed forward, focused only on getting Jenny out and back to camp where they could regroup. Getting into camp Naruto noticed everything and everyone was ready to move, they were just waiting on Dutch and everyone else who was with him.
When Dutch and the rest of the group came back, faces drawn and eyes frantic, it was clear things had taken a turn for the worse. Davey was slumped on his horse, bleeding badly, and Mac was nowhere to be seen. The air was heavy with urgency as they started their travel from Blackwater toward the mountains. But Naruto's eyes darted back to the town, a knot tightening in his chest.
"I'll catch up!" Naruto shouted, turning his horse around and galloping back into the fray without waiting for an answer. The streets were littered with bodies, smoke curling up from fires, and the relentless crack of gunfire still ringing out. He fought his way through, killing about 20 Pinkertons who tried to block his path, his movements quick and relentless.
Finally, in a narrow alleyway, he found Mac. The older Callander brother was slumped against a wall, blood seeping through his shirt and pooling beneath him. His face was pale, and his breathing ragged, but he managed a weak grin when he saw Naruto.
"'Bout time, whisker boy. I knew you'd come." Mac rasped, his voice a shadow of its usual loud and powerful voice.
Naruto's heart clenched at the sight, but he didn't waste time. He heaved Mac onto his horse, feeling the older man's weight sag against him, and turned the animal back toward the mountains. With every beat of the horse's hooves, Naruto's eyes flicked back, searching for signs of pursuit. He knew they were far from safe, but he pushed on, riding hard to catch up with the gang and their uncertain future in the snow-capped wilderness.
Naruto rode through the thick snowstorm. His orange button-up shirt stood out vividly against the white snow. Over the shirt, he wore a fox fur coat, its rich, reddish-brownish-orange fur providing essential warmth and gave a hint of wildness to his appearance. Black pants, reinforced at the knees, were tucked into scuffed black leather boots that gripped the stirrups of his horse. A black leather belt with loops of spare bullets sat low on his hip, holding twin revolver holsters ready for action. Orange fur gloves covered his hands as he guided his horse forward, and a crimson bandana was tied loosely around his neck, prepared to be pulled up when needed.
Naruto was now 21 years old, standing at 6'2 and weighing 210 pounds of solid muscle—muscles that had been earned through years of hard living and were built for action. Over the 14 years since Dutch had found him, Naruto had transformed from a scrappy, wide-eyed boy into a formidable and attractive young man. His sharp blue eyes, framed by the distinctive whisker-like marks on his cheeks, carried both the warmth of the boy he once was and the hard edge of the man he had become.
Next to him was his brother Arthur, the two rode side by side. They were riding back to the gang after they had discovered a place they could hide out while the storm calmed down. Arthur was riding silently, his face drawn and shadowed with exhaustion. The snow whipped around them, biting at their exposed skin as they pushed their horses through the relentless storm. The memory of Blackwater still sat heavily between them, an unspoken reminder of their near losses and the chaos they had barely escaped. The cold only seemed to deepen the chill in their bones.
Arthur finally broke the silence, his voice low and tired. "Reckon Dutch will say anything once we tell him about the spot we found?" His eyes were fixed ahead, jaw clenched against the cold.
Naruto glanced sideways at him, his own face set in a grim expression. "He'll say it's a start." His fingers tightened on the reins, the memory of gunfire, shouting, and bodies left behind playing over in his mind.
Arthur nodded slowly, his breath visible in the freezing air. "Yeah. We'll be lucky if he keeps everyone focused and calm." His usually confident tone carried a flicker of doubt.
The silence settled again, heavier this time, as they trudged on through the blizzard. Every step was a struggle, and the wind howled like a chorus of ghosts behind them. Naruto looked ahead, the snow stinging his eyes but refusing to let his exhaustion show. They couldn't afford weakness now—not when so many were counting on them to find shelter.
Soon, they spotted Dutch and Hosea riding on one of their wagons, the rest of the group trailing behind them through the blizzard.
"Arthur! Naruto! Any luck?" Dutch shouted over the roar of the storm.
"We found a place where we can get some shelter." Arthur replied, his voice firm but tired. "Let Davey and Mac rest, while you kno—" Arthur's words were cut short as Naruto interjected.
"They'll be fine, Arthur. Don't talk like that." Naruto's tone was sharp and resolute. "I managed to get Mac back in time, and we were lucky enough that I had the supplies needed to help them." His eyes were hard, refusing to let doubt creep in or acknowledge the fragility of their situation. He wouldn't let himself think that they would lose any of their family.
Arthur's expression tightened, the uncertainty clear in his eyes. It was true that Naruto's quick thinking and medical supplies had helped stabilize Mac and Davey, but their condition was still touch-and-go, and the relentless cold wasn't doing them any favors.
"Come then, boys, lead the way." Dutch's voice cut through the tension, his authoritative tone sparking a nod from Naruto and Arthur. Without another word, they turned their horses and pressed forward, guiding the group through the storm toward whatever safety they could find.
Naruto stood outside the cabin, snow biting at his exposed skin as the wind howled around him. Inside, he could hear Dutch's familiar voice giving one of his passionate speeches, trying to keep everyone's spirits up in the face of the storm and their recent losses. But Naruto's focus was elsewhere; he scanned the dark, snow-filled landscape, eyes narrowed as he searched for any sign of John.
The creak of the cabin door broke his concentration. Dutch and Arthur stepped out, their faces hard and resolute.
"Come on, Naruto. We need to go find Micah and John," Dutch said, his voice steady and commanding. "The two must have headed down the hill."
Naruto nodded, as he approached his horse. The Steel Grey Breton, named Kurama, stood strong and sure-footed despite the snowstorm. Naruto climbed into the saddle, patting Kurama's neck reassuringly before glancing at Arthur, who was already mounting up beside him. The three men exchanged a silent look of determination before urging their horses forward into the night, the snow whipping around them as they descended the hill to search for their lost comrades.
"What really went down back there on that boat?" Arthur asked as the three of them rode through the swirling snow, their horses pushing through the drifts with heavy hooves.
Dutch's eyes stayed fixed ahead, jaw set as he answered. "We missed you and Naruto, that's what happened." His tone was clipped, evasive. Naruto caught the subtle shift, the way Dutch's voice carried an edge of defensiveness. A sigh escaped Naruto's lips, the cold air turning his breath into a cloud that quickly dissipated. Dutch's response told him enough—there was something he didn't want to say.
Naruto's mind worked quickly, piecing together the fragments of doubt that had been growing for some time. Trelawny's lessons on reading people had sharpened Naruto's instincts, and he could see the changes in Dutch more clearly now, especially since Micah had joined the gang. Dutch was still a father figure to him, but Naruto couldn't ignore the small cracks that had started to show.
"It was Micah's fault, wasn't it." Naruto said, his voice cutting through the cold night air. He spat the name out as if it left a bitter taste in his mouth. "Every time that bastard is involved, it always goes wrong."
"No, it wasn't Micah's fault, son. It was a trap." Dutch snapped, glancing at Naruto with a glare that dared him to press the issue. "I don't know if it was for us or for someone else, but with so many Pinkertons there, it was a trap. Micah couldn't have known."
Naruto clenched his jaw, the muscles in his face tight. "Yet we wouldn't be in this mess if Micah wasn't around. We would have avoided so much trouble these past few months if I'd killed him that day." he said, recalling the day he had beaten Micah bloody, and the only regret he felt was not finishing the job.
"Micah is family now, Naruto. Don't speak such nonsense." Dutch said, his tone hardening. Arthur sensed the tension rising. He knew it was time to step in before things turned sour.
"And what about the money?" Arthur asked, shifting the focus. He knew the subject of Micah would only lead to a fight, and that was the last thing they needed in the storm. Naruto wasn't one to bite his tongue, and everyone knew how he felt about Micah. The tension between Naruto and Dutch had been building for months, with Dutch constantly defending Micah—a loyalty Arthur didn't understand. It gnawed at him, left him questioning why Dutch, who had trusted him and Naruto for years, seemed so quick to protect someone as dangerous and unpredictable as Micah.
"I stashed the money in town. It'll be safe for now but we can't go back anytime soon to collect it." Dutch said. Naruto squinted through the snow and noticed a light up ahead, and it seemed Dutch saw it too. "I think I see something up ahead." Dutch said, just as Micah rode up to meet them.
"Gentlemen." Micah said, a smirk on his face as he approached.
"Found anything?" Dutch asked.
"I think so. Found a little homestead down that way." Micah replied.
"Anyone home?" Dutch asked.
"Sure, place is blazing with light and noise, sounded like a party." Micah said.
"Let's go take a look then." Dutch said.
The four men rode in silence, the tension thick between them. Micah and Dutch exchanged quiet words while Arthur and Naruto rode side by side, eyes scanning the dark landscape. When they reached the homestead, they hitched their horses and approached on foot.
"You three get yourselves out of sight. Micah, hide behind the wagon. Arthur, Naruto, go hide behind that old shed." Dutch instructed. The three men moved quickly, taking their positions as Dutch walked up to the front of the house, his silhouette framed by the light spilling from the windows.
Naruto's breath was steady, eyes sharp as he crouched behind the shed next to Arthur. Micah's call rang out moments later, a warning that cut through the storm. "There's a body in the wagon."
Before anyone could react, Dutch pulled his gun and shot the man in front of him. The homestead erupted into chaos, gunfire splitting the night. Naruto reacted instantly, aiming and firing as three figures came into view. His first shot hit a man square in the skull, dropping him instantly. The second bullet found its mark in another man's neck, cutting off his scream as he crumpled. The third shot went through an O'Driscoll's eye and out the back of his skull, splattering blood as he fell lifeless to the snow.
Once the fighting came to an end, Dutch told Arthur to check the barn while Micah inspected the house and instructed Naruto to bring the horses closer. As Naruto led the horses forward, a commotion from the house drew his attention. He rushed over and found Micah chasing a terrified woman around the table, eyes wild and cornering her like prey.
"What the hell are you doing, Micah." Naruto said, his voice cold as he grabbed Micah by the back of his collar and threw him to the floor. Micah landed hard, glaring up with defiance just as Dutch walked in and took in the scene.
"She's one of them," Micah protested, eyes narrowing.
"No, she's not. She's afraid." Dutch's voice was laced with disappointment as he looked at Micah. Before anyone could move, Micah's anger boiled over, he got up and he kicked the table, sending a lamp crashing to the ground. Flames leapt up instantly, licking the wooden floorboards and spreading fast.
"You fucking idiot." Naruto spat, shooting Micah a glare before turning to the woman, who was clutching a knife, her hands shaking. "Miss, please calm down. Everything is going to be fine. We're not going to harm you. Let's get out of here before you burn with the place." Naruto's voice was calm and soothing despite the chaos around them. The woman's wide eyes met his, and slowly, she lowered the knife and allowed him to guide her out of the burning house.
Once outside and mounted on his horse, Naruto listened as the woman, breath still ragged with fear, introduced herself. "Sadie Adler," she said, voice trembling but strong beneath the surface.
As they rode back through the snow, Naruto's mind was clouded with worry. The flames and chaos were only the beginning—he could feel it deep in his bones. These next few months were going to be some of the toughest the gang had ever faced.
AN: I hope you enjoyed and make sure to leave a review to give me your thoughts on the story so far. Well unless it's just to hate for no reason then keep that to yourself.