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Chapter no.23 Solaire of Astora
The Hokage's Office was quiet, save for the faint rustling of paper as Hiruzen Sarutobi read through Kakashi's report.
The old man's brow furrowed as his eyes drifted over the latest findings.
"Scorch Release?"
Hiruzen muttered the words under his breath, the concept alone making him feel a familiar sense of unease.
Kakashi, standing at attention before the desk, gave a nonchalant shrug.
"Just a theory—courtesy of Sasuke Uchiha."
It was a flimsy idea at best. Naruto's chakra nature had already been confirmed, but Kakashi had long since learned to account for the impossible, especially when something like the Kyūbi could be involved.
Hiruzen hummed, continuing through the rest of the report.
And then, he paused.
Naruto's armor… made entirely of chakra metal.
Hiruzen's fingers tightened slightly on the parchment, his chest growing inexplicably tight.
The entire armor?
His first thought was sheer disbelief, but the implications settled in quickly. The amount of chakra metal required…
Even the Daimyō himself would wince at its worth.
Where? Hiruzen's mind raced. Where in the world did Naruto acquire enough chakra metal to forge an entire suit of armor?
A part of him—the leader of Konoha, the protector of its future—felt the whisper of an opportunity.
If only Konoha knew how to replicate it…
The thought came unbidden, and with it, an old memory—Asuma's voice, blunt and laced with quiet disappointment.
Are you? Or are you doing this for Konoha?
Hiruzen's lips thinned.
Let's say you figure out Naruto's mysteries. What then? Are you expecting Konoha to benefit from them? From him? Because if that's the case, then you've forgotten something important, Father.
And yet—here it was. A legitimate way for Konoha to benefit from Naruto's strange evolution.
"Kakashi, what are we doing?"
Kakashi blinked. "Hokage-sama?"
Hiruzen set the paper down, exhaling. "These investigations… these mysteries. What is the end goal?"
Kakashi frowned slightly, his visible eye sharpening. "Sir?"
The Hokage's gaze didn't lift from the parchment.
"What do we hope to gain from this?"
A beat of silence.
Then, Kakashi replied, "At the very least, we can ensure Naruto is safe from whatever caused this."
Hiruzen huffed, the sound dry and tired.
"Safe." He shook his head. "Yes, of course. Because keeping him ignorant and alone for the last decade was for his safety."
The bitterness in his voice surprised even himself.
Kakashi's stance remained steady, but his eye flickered with something unreadable.
"Hokage-sama, if I may."
Hiruzen motioned for him to continue.
"It's clear that you've been thinking a lot about Naruto, and perhaps you're feeling like you've failed him."
Hiruzen let out a slow breath. "Didn't I?"
Kakashi was quiet for a moment, then shook his head.
"Hokage-sama, no one understands better than you how much weight rested on your shoulders after the Kyūbi attack. You lost your wife that night. You had to oversee the reconstruction of Konoha, handle the growing number of war orphans, and manage rising political tensions with the threat of another Shinobi War looming overhead.
"Then there was the Uchiha Clan's unrest, the fractured alliances with other nations, the Council's interference, Danzo's schemes, the ANBU's internal conflicts…"
He sighed.
"Sir, I know you didn't do what was best for Naruto, but you tried—while the world felt like it was crumbling under your feet."
The words hung between them, settling into the office like an unspoken truth.
Hiruzen's fingers drifted over his desk, brushing against the edges of the report.
"Wise words, Kakashi." His voice was quiet. "But I gave everything I had to Konoha, and yet… it feels as though I failed the people who truly mattered."
Kakashi's gaze softened, his eye distant.
"Can I join you in that sentiment?"
The way he said it spoke of understanding.
They were both too late to realize who truly mattered.
A beat of silence passed between them.
"Lord Third," Kakashi said. "Teaching Team 7 has taught me something valuable."
"Oh? And what lesson is that?"
Kakashi's eye curved slightly, though it wasn't quite a smile. "That people can change, despite their past."
Hiruzen hummed, waiting for him to elaborate.
Kakashi continued, "I've watched Sakura go from a kunoichi who would have been a casualty in her first real battle to someone who works tirelessly to stand beside her teammates. I've seen Sasuke—despite everything—open up to Team 7, trusting them in ways I never thought he would."
His tone softened.
"And I've watched Naruto's grief of Oscar… heal."
"Guess being a teacher has been good for you."
"It's all thanks to your guidance, Lord Third."
The old Hokage let out a quiet chuckle before his expression turned solemn. He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands over the desk.
"Kakashi, I've come to a realization." His voice was softer now, but steady. "I want to make things right for Naruto. A second chance."
"Second chances come after proof of change, not before."
Hiruzen nodded, his grip on his pipe tightening. "Which is why I'm going to tell him about Minato and Kushina."
The words hung heavy in the air.
Kakashi's breath hitched just slightly, his fingers twitching at his side.
"You mean to tell him everything?"
"Yes." Hiruzen exhaled. "But not until I've dealt with Danzo first."
The mere mention of that name sent a chill through the air.
Kakashi frowned. "You're taking direct action?"
Hiruzen's eyes sharpened. "I am."
He gave Kakashi a brief but thorough summary of his plan.
When he finished, Kakashi was already calculating the risks. "Do you want me to join the squad? If Danzo has a plan in place, you can assume he'll use it."
"I know the dangers, which is why I handpicked the team myself. Shibi Aburame will lead the team of ANBU captains—he's already tagged every member with his kikaichū. If Danzo tries to use Kotoamatsukami, their chakra will disrupt the genjutsu immediately."
"A failsafe. Smart."
Hiruzen nodded. "Tsume Inuzuka will also be on the team—her heightened senses will detect any Root operatives, in case Danzo has continued his activities despite his so-called exile."
Kakashi folded his arms. "It's a good start. But if Danzo's backed into a corner, he'll retaliate. That team has countermeasures, but they still need more muscle. What about Gai?"
"He's away on a mission."
Kakashi's lips thinned slightly. "Jiraiya-sama, then?"
Hiruzen shook his head again. "No. Jiraiya is too far away to accompany the team. Instead, I'll be sending Enma to accompany them. Even Danzo isn't foolish enough to make a move against the Monkey King."
Kakashi let out a low whistle. "Pulling out all the stops, huh?"
Hiruzen's expression darkened. "I refuse to let Danzo be a loose end."
Kakashi nodded.
There was nothing else to say. At least, not about that.
"Do you want me to keep an eye on Naruto? Just in case Danzo tries something while we're handling this?"
Hiruzen's gaze flickered, studying Kakashi carefully.
Smart. The man had already figured it out.
"If you must."
Kakashi nodded. "Good. I've been thinking of taking Team 7 through more teamwork drills. Maybe throw in a few D-rank missions."
"That's a good idea. They've developed their individual skills—now they need to learn how to use them together."
A brief silence settled again.
Then, Kakashi asked the inevitable question.
"And the mysteries?"
Hiruzen's fingers tapped idly against his desk.
"We are shinobi, Kakashi. It would be foolish to dismiss mysteries just because they involve Naruto." He looked up. "But from now on, we separate the two. Naruto and his mysteries are not the same. Treat them as such."
Kakashi held his gaze for a moment.
Then, slowly—he bowed.
"Understood, Hokage-sama."
[ One Week Later ]
It was a clear day in the forests of Konoha, where the birds chirped and the leaves rustled with the gentle breeze. Team 7, however, was not enjoying the idyllic scenery. Instead, they were crouched in the dirt, stalking a small brown cat with a red ribbon on its right ear—the infamous Tora, beloved pet of Madam Shijimi, one of the wives of the Fire Daimyō.
"Alright, Team 7," Kakashi said, his voice grave as he crouched behind a tree, his book conspicuously in hand. "This is a high-priority mission. Tora is known for her evasive maneuvers, her cunning, and her unrelenting will to escape. We can't afford any mistakes."
Naruto groaned, his head dropping to his hands. "It's a cat, sensei. I bet I could catch it solo, dattebayo."
"This mission comes directly from Madam Shijimi. And remember, she's not just any client—she's a diplomat for the Fire Daimyō. How we handle this reflects on Konoha."
"And on you," Sakura added dryly, shooting Kakashi a sideways glance.
"Exactly," Kakashi replied, unfazed. "So, no pressure. But if we fail, we risk jeopardizing diplomatic relations with the entire Fire Nation." He turned a page in his book. "No big deal."
The team collectively stared at him.
"Are we seriously pretending this isn't a waste of time?" Sasuke asked flatly.
"I mean," Sakura chimed in, "shouldn't someone talk to Madam Shijimi about how she's treating this cat? It keeps running away for a reason."
"It's not our job to question the client," Kakashi said. "Our job is to retrieve Tora."
"Poor cat," Sakura muttered under her breath as they moved into position.
The team scattered, each taking a planned route. Sasuke was the first to act, hurling kunai with ninja wires imbued with lightning chakra. They struck the trees around the fleeing Tora, cutting off her escape routes with precision.
The cat hissed, its amber eyes darting wildly for an exit. It turned left—Naruto was there, standing with his arms crossed, a smug grin on his face. It turned right, and there Naruto was again, the same smirk on his face.
No matter where Tora turned, Naruto was there.
"Afterimages?" Sasuke muttered. Naruto was fast enough now to make it seem like he was everywhere at once. "You're seriously using Shisui's technique on a cat?"
"I'm refining my skills, teme," Naruto said, his grin widening as he flickered into another position. "Besides, this cat is way tougher than it looks!"
Tora hissed and arched her back, trying to look intimidating, but Naruto wasn't fazed.
"Ninja Art: Pyramidal Barrier!" Sakura shouted, slamming her hands together.
The kunai Naruto had placed around the area suddenly glowed, creating a shimmering pyramidal barrier around the panicked cat. Tora scratched at the chakra barrier wall of her new prison, but it was no use.
"Target confirmed," Naruto said dramatically. "It's Tora. Mission complete."
Kakashi finally emerged from the trees, clapping slowly. "Excellent work, Team 7. Tora has been successfully apprehended."
"You could've helped, you know."
"Why? You were doing so well."
"Yeah, well, next time you can chase after a demon cat!" Naruto grumbled.
"Stop complaining, Naruto. We finished the mission," Sakura said, shaking her head as she carefully deactivated the barrier.
Team 7 stood blankly as Madam Shijimi scooped Tora into her arms.
Madam Shijimi was a corpulent woman with dark brown hair styled into three enormous poofs. Her face was coated in purple eyeshadow, pink lipstick, and a thick layer of powder. Her nails were painted to match her gaudy rings, which jingled as she petted Tora with excessive force. The poor cat looked utterly defeated, its amber eyes half-lidded as it resigned itself to its fate.
"Is this… animal abuse?" Sasuke muttered under his breath, glancing at the limp Tora.
"I think so," Sakura whispered back, frowning. "No wonder the cat keeps running away."
Naruto's thoughts drifted to his pet crystal lizard, now named Crystal Oscar. He suddenly felt a deep sense of pride knowing that he treated his little companion with respect and care. Glad I don't treat Oscar like that, he muttered to himself.
As Madam Shijimi hugged Tora tighter, the cat let out a small, pitiful noise.
"Well done, Team 7!" Madam Shijimi gushed, her rings glittering as she clasped her hands together. "You've brought my precious Tora back to me. She's such a naughty little thing, always trying to run away. But now she's back where she belongs!"
Naruto winced as Tora's amber eyes locked onto his. For a moment, it was like the cat was begging for help.
"...We're done here, right?"
"Yes, Naruto, you're done for now," Hiruzen said with a faint smile, watching as an ANBU quietly escorted Madam Shijimi out of the office.
"I must congratulate Team 7," Hiruzen continued. "You've successfully completed twelve D-rank missions. With this, you are now qualified for higher-ranked missions."
Naruto's face lit up like a firework. "Finally! No more chasing cats, dattebayo!" he exclaimed, pumping a fist into the air. Sakura smiled, and even Sasuke's usual aloofness seemed to soften with mild interest.
Hiruzen smiled at their enthusiasm and picked up a scroll from the pile on his desk. "Your next mission will be a C-rank escort. It's a step up from what you've been doing but well within your capabilities. Bring in the client."
At the Hokage's signal, an ANBU stepped out of the room. Moments later, the door creaked open, and in walked an older man with a hunched posture, carrying a faint air of irritation.
Team 7 took in the sight of their client—a gray-haired, bespectacled man with a large beard and dark eyes. He wore a sleeveless V-neck shirt tied with an obi, plain pants, and sandals. A towel hung loosely around his neck, and a pointed hat sat atop his head. Most strikingly, he was holding a beer bottle, which he sipped from like it was water.
The man glanced at Team 7 and grimaced. "Hokage-sama," he said, his voice gruff, "while I appreciate the quick turnaround on my mission… are these wet-behind-the-ears brats really going to protect me?"
"Hey! Who are you calling a brat, old man?"
Before Tazuna could retort, Hiruzen raised a hand.
"Tazuna-san, I assure you, these genin are more than capable of handling your simple escort mission."
The word simple hung in the air like a knife.
Tazuna froze mid-sip of his beer, his hand tightening slightly around the bottle. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple as his gaze flickered to the Hokage, then to the trio of genin standing before him.
"S-Simple, huh?" Tazuna muttered, his voice strained. He let out an awkward chuckle, wiping his forehead with the towel draped around his neck as he quickly tried to change the subject.
"What kind of ninja wears armor like that? And why's a shorty like you lugging around a sword twice your size? Are you compensating for something?"
Naruto's grin stretched wide as he stepped forward, resting a hand on the hilt of his sword.
"Want me to show you what it can do?"
Tazuna took a nervous step back, sweat beginning to bead on his forehead. "No, no! That's fine, kid. I was just kidding!" he said with a nervous chuckle, lifting his beer bottle as if to toast.
"Tazuna-san, you'll find Naruto's capable of much more than jokes."
"Yeah, right…" Tazuna muttered. "Guess I'll just have to trust you all."
"Good choice, old man."
Tazuna scowled, trying to regain his composure. "I'll have you know I'm a man of great renown!" he declared loudly, puffing out his chest. "I'm Tazuna, the best bridge builder in the Land of Waves! And until I'm safely back in my country to finish my masterpiece, it's your job to protect me—even if it costs you your lives!"
Team 7 stared blankly at him, unmoved by his theatrics.
The silence stretched awkwardly until Tazuna deflated slightly. "...Uh, I mean… thanks for your hard work in advance."
Hiruzen clapped his hands once, bringing the room back to order. "Team 7, your mission begins in two hours. Use the time to prepare."
Tazuna, who looked like he was ready to bolt, muttered, "I'll, uh… go check out the village or something."
"There's a bar down the street that serves Earth Nation beer," Hiruzen added casually.
Tazuna's eyes lit up despite himself. "Is that right?" he asked, feigning disinterest as he sipped his beer.
As Tazuna adjusted his grip on the bottle, the top suddenly slid off with an unnervingly clean cut, the jagged edge catching the light. The severed piece fell to the ground with a soft clink, and a stream of beer immediately spilled out, splashing onto his hand and dripping onto the floor.
The room went silent, all eyes snapping to Naruto, who stood smirking, his hand casually resting on his sword hilt.
Tazuna gulped. "Geez, kid. You're fast. Really fast."
"I'll take that as a compliment."
Tazuna's nervousness was palpable now as he shuffled toward the door. "...Uh… anyone want some booze?"
Sasuke and Sakura shook their heads immediately, while Kakashi smiled under his mask. "I don't drink."
"Bring me one. I want to see what it tastes like."
Tazuna nodded at Naruto with newfound respect. "You've got guts, kid," he muttered before disappearing out the door.
"That guy is definitely a sad drunk old man."
"Absolutely," Sakura said with a sigh, while Sasuke grunted in agreement.
Kakashi straightened, his lazy demeanor returning. "Alright, Team 7, you're dismissed for now. Meet up at the northern gate in two hours, ready to go."
Naruto perked up immediately. "Ichiraku Ramen?"
Sakura and Sasuke exchanged a glance before shrugging.
He had trained relentlessly for over a week, honing his skills and pushing himself to his limits. Now, Naruto felt ready—ready to return to Lordran and face the Taurus Demon. This battle would be his measure, his proof that he could take on the dangers lurking not just in the unforgiving world of Lordran, but also in the shadows beyond Konoha.
But before all that… Ramen!
The smell of steaming ramen filled the air as Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke sat at the counter of Ichiraku Ramen, bowls in front of them. Naruto was already halfway through his third bowl, his slurping sounds making Sakura twitch. Sasuke, meanwhile, sipped his tomato soup quietly, seemingly unfazed by the chaos around him.
"Okay," Sakura said, placing her chopsticks down and looking at the two boys seriously. "We need to figure out what to bring on the mission. Sasuke, you got anything in mind?"
Sasuke shrugged, taking another sip of his soup. "Kunai, shuriken. The basics."
"I'm bringing ramen cups."
"Ramen cups aren't survival gear, Naruto!" Sakura snapped, glaring at him. "Do you ever take this seriously?"
"Hey, it's better than starving!" Naruto shot back. "And besides, you can't exactly rely on Sasuke's brooding to feed us."
Sasuke raised an eyebrow but said nothing.
Ayame stepped out from the back, drying her hands on a clean towel. "What's all the commotion about?"
"We're trying to figure out what to pack for a mission to the Wave," Sakura said with an exasperated tone, side-eyeing Naruto. "Although some of us…" she trailed off pointedly, "…are less helpful than others."
"Hey! Ramen cups are totally practical! What if we run out of food, huh?"
Sasuke sighed. "If we're relying on ramen cups to survive, we're already doomed."
Ayame chuckled, the banter clearly entertaining her. "Sounds about right for you, Naruto. But since you're heading to the Wave Country, could you do me a little favor?"
"What kind of favor, Nee-chan?"
Ayame tapped her chin thoughtfully.
"Trade from the Wave has been ridiculously expensive lately. If you could bring me back some shellfish—shrimp, crab, maybe some clams—fresh, of course, I'd owe you one."
Sakura raised an eyebrow. "Why's trade so expensive from the Wave? It's not that far from here."
Ayame's cheerful expression dimmed slightly. "It's because of the Gato Trading Company. They have a stranglehold on the economy there. No goods leave the Wave without passing through Gato's hands first, and he charges a fortune in tariffs. Even essentials like food and medicine are marked up ridiculously. A lot of people there are struggling."
Sasuke's eyes narrowed. "You seem to know a lot about the Wave."
Ayame shrugged. "Well, we get a lot of travelers here, and some of them are merchants. They talk. From what I've heard, the Gato Company isn't just a trading operation. They're basically running a mafia. Anyone who crosses them disappears."
"That explains something," Sasuke muttered, glancing at Sakura and Naruto. "You remember how suspicious Tazuna was when he hired us? He wanted us to protect him," Sasuke continued, his tone sharp, "even if it cost us our lives. That's not something a regular client says unless they're desperate or hiding something."
"Desperate," Sakura echoed. "If Gato's as bad as Ayame says, maybe Tazuna has a reason to be paranoid. But what's he trying to do that would make Gato target him?"
Naruto frowned. "Does the Wave Country have a bridge?"
Teuchi stepped forward, wiping his hands on his apron. "No, it doesn't. The Wave Country is separated from the mainland by a large body of water. All trade and travel are done by boat."
Naruto's eyes widened. "Wait, you don't think…"
"If Tazuna is building a bridge between the Wave and the Fire Nation," Sasuke interjected, "he'd be cutting into Gato's profits. A bridge would let goods flow freely without needing Gato's ships. He'd lose control over trade—and his monopoly."
"And if that happens," Sakura added, her voice growing more certain, "Gato would do everything he could to stop it. That includes taking Tazuna out."
A heavy silence settled over the group as the implications sank in.
"Do we tell Kakashi about this?"
"No," Naruto and Sasuke said in unison, sharing a rare, mischievous smirk.
Ayame raised a brow. "Why not?"
"It's because these two want a challenge," Sakura muttered.
"Precept the First: A knight's purpose is to serve… to protect those who cannot protect themselves," Naruto declared, his voice solemn, one hand raised as though he were making an oath.
Sakura and Sasuke just stared at him, their expressions blank.
"And also…" Naruto grinned, breaking his "wise" demeanor with a sheepish laugh. "…I need my shellfish ramen!"
Sasuke gave his signature "Hn," which was the most agreement anyone was going to get from him.
Sakura pinched the bridge of her nose. "Right. Heroes. We'll need to be smart about this. Pack supplies that'll last, weapons, and medical gear. No ramen cups, Naruto."
"But ramen cups—"
"No."
Naruto slumped, muttering something about blasphemy against the ramen gods, but Ayame interjected with a gentle smile. "Naruto, just promise me you'll be careful out there, okay?" Her voice was soft, but there was a flicker of genuine concern in her eyes. "Shellfish isn't worth risking your life over."
"Hey, this is me we're talking about! I can't be killed!"
"Sure, Naruto," Ayame said, rolling her eyes with a smirk as she motioned him closer. "But while we're on the topic, what about you-know-who?"
Naruto froze. "I—I don't know. I thought you would take care of him!" he whispered, glancing over at his teammates to make sure they weren't paying attention.
They were absolutely paying attention.
"Naruto," Ayame hissed, grabbing his hands. "He's your responsibility."
"But this might be a dangerous mission!" Naruto whined, throwing a nervous look over his shoulder.
Ayame tightened her grip on his hands. "You can handle this, okay? Plus, maybe it's time you finally tell your team about the little guy."
Naruto bit his lip. "You're right," he said, straightening up. "I can handle this."
"That's my Naruto," Ayame said with a grin, leaning forward to give him a quick kiss on the forehead.
Naruto froze, his face going bright red. Slowly, he turned to look at his teammates. Sasuke was staring at him blankly, but with a look that somehow felt like judgment. Sakura, however, looked like she was about two seconds away from going full-on feral.
"Uh… bye!" Naruto squeaked before body-flickering out of the ramen shop so fast that the air practically whooshed around him.
The silence that followed was deafening.
Teuchi, who had been wiping down the counter, coughed awkwardly. "Anything else, sonny?" he asked Sasuke, trying to diffuse the tension.
"Can you make tomato ramen?"
Teuchi chuckled. "I'll see what I can do."
Meanwhile, Ayame was shifting nervously under the intense glare of Sakura, who looked ready to flip the entire counter over.
"My best friend, Ino, likes Naruto," Sakura began, her voice low and dangerous. "Even if both of them are goddamn idiots who don't know it."
Sasuke quietly slid his chair a little farther away.
"So how dare you—homewrecker—get in between them?!"
Ayame blinked, caught entirely off guard. And then she started laughing—loud, genuine laughter that made Sakura's glare falter for a second.
"Homewrecker?" Ayame wheezed, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye. "You think I'm trying to steal Naruto?"
"Yes!" Sakura snapped. "I saw that forehead kiss! Don't deny it!"
"Oh no, oh no, Sakura," Ayame said, holding up her hands in surrender, still grinning. "Naruto's like a little brother to me. That forehead kiss? That's just me messing with him."
Sakura blinked. "Wait, so you're not—?"
"Nope," Ayame said, shaking her head firmly, trying to stifle a laugh. "I mean, he's sweet, but absolutely not. Besides…" She leaned casually on the counter, smirking. "Ino and Naruto have been coming here almost every day for the past week."
Sakura's jaw dropped so hard it was a miracle it didn't hit the floor.
"What?!"
Naruto woke up in front of the bonfire, a grin spreading across his face like he'd just found the answer to life itself.
"I'm back," he muttered, the words barely audible over the crackling firelight.
A second later, he bolted out of the room like a shot.
"I'm back!" he announced loudly to the endless gray skies of Lordran.
Lordran, of course, responded in its usual fashion: trying to kill him.
A hollow perched on a ruined ledge above him lobbed a firebomb with deadly intent, while another hollow with a crossbow fired an arrow directly at his head. But Naruto didn't flinch. Instead, he smiled, and the faint shimmer of his wind cloak came to life around him.
The cloak wasn't a jutsu, not really. It was the product of pure wind manipulation—a constant, invisible current of air swirling around him. The breeze subtly adjusted itself to every movement, optimizing the aerodynamics of his body. It was like wearing the wind itself—light, invisible, and utterly lethal in how it amplified his speed.
The arrow whistled through the air toward him, but before it could reach, Naruto vanished with a flicker of motion—a blur carried by Shunshin no Jutsu.
In the blink of an eye, he reappeared in front of the hollow with the crossbow, his blade raised high. The momentum of his movement carried into a devastating downward slash, cleaving the hollow clean in two.
The force of Naruto's strike didn't stop there—the sheer power behind it cleaved through the hollow and continued into the stone battlement beneath. The solid stone cracked and splintered under his blade, leaving a jagged fissure in its wake as dust and rubble scattered into the air.
Naruto didn't even bother to admire the destruction. Instead, he casually leaned back, his feet sliding into a smooth moonwalk across the uneven stone, his movements effortlessly fluid despite the carnage around him.
As the sound of hollow footsteps echoed from the stairwell, and without turning, Naruto whipped his leg backward in a powerful donkey kick that connected squarely with the hollow's chest. The hollow didn't stand a chance—it flew off the stairwell with a gurgled scream, limbs flailing, before disappearing into the void below.
"And they say I'm not graceful."
Naruto stood at the edge of the stone bridge, pausing for a moment as his eyes swept over the scene ahead. The axe-wielding hollows loitered inside the room, their glowing eyes fixed on him, waiting.
"Same old routine," he muttered, cracking his neck.
The entire runback to the tower had barely taken a minute, his body moving as if on autopilot. Every hollow in his path had been dispatched with ruthless efficiency.
By the time Naruto reached the top floor of the tower, he stopped in front of the doorframe.
"This is going to be epic," Naruto said, his voice brimming with anticipation as he stepped onto the wall walk.
He stopped in his tracks.
Nothing.
Naruto's gaze swept across the battlements, his confident grin faltering. The far tower, where the Taurus Demon had once made its grand entrance, stood silent and empty. No massive beast crashing down. No thunderous roar. Just… nothing.
"Is it running late or something?"
He waited, his eyes fixed on the opposite tower, but all he got was the sound of the wind and the faint creak of the wooden beams beneath his feet. A minute passed, then two. Still nothing.
Naruto unequipped his helmet and dragged a hand down his face.
"Seriously? I've been training all week for this rematch, and you're just not gonna show? How unprofessional."
Naruto turned back toward his clones, who were busy finishing off the last of the crossbow-wielding hollows. One of them shrugged, dispersing into a puff of smoke with a resigned look.
He walked to the edge of the wall and pulled out his binoculars, peering toward the opposite tower.
Still nothing.
With a deep sigh, he turned and muttered, "Fine. I'll just… kill that dragon, I guess." He headed toward the far tower, his steps heavy with frustration.
Reaching the opposite tower, Naruto entered the small room at its base. Old barrels and crates filled the space, their decayed wood stained and splintered. With a growl, Naruto began smashing everything in sight.
Crates shattered under his strikes, and barrels splintered into pieces. It wasn't much, but it felt good to vent his frustration. The room quickly turned into a mess of broken wood and dust.
Finally, only one crate remained. Naruto smashed it with a final swing—and froze.
Amid the shattered remains of the crate was a corpse. Its shriveled, naked form was eerily still, its hollowed eyes staring upward. It wasn't fear that stopped Naruto, but curiosity. He crouched down, noticing the faint glow of a soul orb hovering above the body.
"Huh." He plucked the orb from the corpse, letting it absorb into him with a familiar warmth. "Guess someone didn't make it out alive. Probably those weird undead hunts of the Way of White. Jerks."
He shook his head and turned toward the hall connected to the tower, finding yet another set of barrels and crates to destroy. As he smashed his way through, he emerged onto a set of stairs that spiraled downward.
At the base of the stairs, he found himself staring at a moss-covered archway. Beyond it was a heavy wooden door. Naruto tried the handle, but it didn't budge.
[ Door is Locked ]
He pulled out the residence key he'd bought from the merchant and tried again.
[ Door is Locked ]
Naruto stood at the edge of the stone bridge, his gaze locked on the five hollows shuffling on the other side. Their grotesque forms hovered over glowing corpses, their movements slow and deliberate. A bitter laugh escaped him as he brought out his binoculars for a closer look.
"Wow," Naruto muttered, lowering the binoculars. "Guess hollows can set up traps now. Next thing you know, they'll start charging tolls."
He cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted across the bridge.
"Oi, idiots! You're supposed to hide to make the trap work!"
The hollows turned toward him at his outburst, two of them immediately breaking into awkward, shambling movements that could only loosely be described as walking.
Naruto smirked, forming a single hand seal.
"Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
A clone materialized beside him, giving him a quick nod before sprinting down the bridge toward the hollows. It moved with purpose, weaving slightly to avoid the glowing corpses. For a moment, the bridge was silent except for the slap of sandals against weathered stone.
Then, hell itself rained down.
From above, the sky ignited in a cascade of searing flames. A torrent of fire engulfed the entire bridge, the intense heat warping the air and licking at the stone with ferocious hunger. The flames consumed everything in their path, including Naruto's clone, whose memories slammed into the original like a freight train.
For a split second, Naruto felt it all—the agony of being burned alive, the suffocating heat, the searing pain. His breath hitched, and he instinctively grabbed his chest as the phantom pain subsided.
When the flames finally receded, the bridge was unrecognizable. The hollows were nothing more than charred remains, the glowing corpses now blackened husks. Naruto's smirk vanished as he saw it.
The dragon.
It perched atop the tower on the far side of the bridge, its massive, red-scaled body radiating power. Its wings spread wide for balance, leathery membranes shimmering faintly in the sunlight. Sharp claws gripped the edge of the tower, and its long tail coiled and swayed with a dangerous rhythm. Its head was tilted downward, fixed on the bridge as if daring Naruto to cross.
Naruto swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. Nope, he muttered, raising a hand in a half-hearted salute. You win this one, buddy.
Turning on his heel, Naruto walked the other way. How do I approach this thing without getting burned to death?
Turning around he started descending the staircase on the side of the bridge, Naruto found himself on a lower platform. It jutted out over the cliff, giving him a breathtaking view of the mist-covered expanse below. The world stretched endlessly, blanketed in a pale white that blurred the line between land and sky.
His awe was short-lived, however, as his attention snapped to the figure standing on the platform.
The man stood tall, clad head to toe in weathered metal armor. A white tunic draped over his chest, adorned with a striking image of a sun—a face surrounded by yellow and red rays. His shoulders bore green cloth that hung like makeshift capes, tattered and frayed from countless battles. He exuded a sense of purpose, his posture noble yet relaxed, as though he belonged to the very mist itself.
Naruto stared, blinking. What the…
The man turned his head, the metal of his helmet glinting in the light. Despite the lack of visible eyes, Naruto felt as though the man were smiling at him.
"Ah, hello! You don't look Hollow—not in the slightest! Far from it!" The man's voice was calm, almost hypnotic. His tone was upbeat, almost too cheery for a place like this. "I am Solaire of Astora, an adherent of the Lord of Sunlight."
"Wait, you're from Astora?!"
The knight chuckled, a deep, hearty laugh. "Why yes, indeed! That great, noble land. But, ah, forgive my curiosity—how do you know of Astora?"
Naruto straightened up, suddenly feeling a need to look presentable. "My name is Naruto Uzumaki, and I'm the Squire of Sir Oscar, an Elite knight of Astora." His voice carried a pride he hadn't felt in a while.
"A Squire, you say? Ah, the honor of it! How splendid to meet another soul from my homeland!" Solaire exclaimed, clapping his gauntleted hands together. His tone turned softer, though still warm. "Tell me, does your master still walk these lands?"
Naruto's shoulders sagged slightly. "He… he died. He saved me from the Asylum Demon. Gave me everything so I could escape." His voice dropped, the memory still fresh.
Solaire tilted his head slightly, as if offering an invisible smile beneath his helm. "A pilgrimage, then. Like so many of our order, he must have sought the truths hidden within Lordran." He paused, letting the words settle. "And he gave his life for yours? Truly, he was a knight of great conviction. Be proud of that bond, young squire."
Naruto nodded, though his throat felt tight. "Thanks. I… try to honor him."
Solaire's voice brightened. "And so you should! From what I see, you have already come far—close to the bell, even!"
Naruto's eyes narrowed. "Bell?"
"Ah, yes," Solaire replied, gesturing beyond the bridge. "The first Bell of Awakening lies within the Undead Church, just past that formidable structure. Quite the destination, wouldn't you agree?"
Naruto grinned. "First bell, huh? Sounds like I've got my next target. Thanks, Solaire."
"Think nothing of it, dear squire." Solaire's tone turned whimsical again as he looked toward the pale mist in the distance. "I myself have come to this land for a purpose—to seek my very own sun."
Naruto furrowed his brows. "Your own sun? Uh, you know the sun's right there, right?" He pointed to the sky, his expression deadpan.
Solaire chuckled again, the sound rich and full of amusement. "Ah, yes! Quite the literal interpretation. But tell me, what do you think the sun is?"
Naruto shrugged. "A burning ball of gas that gives us daylight?"
"Hah hah hah!" Solaire's laugh echoed across the platform, rich and warm like sunlight breaking through clouds. "I see! A fair answer, indeed. But to me, the sun is far more than that. It is not just a burning ball of gas; it is the beacon of hope, a symbol of life's brilliance. Did you know, young squire, that the sun itself was once said to be a creation of Lord Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight?"
"Wait, Lord Gwyn made the sun?"
Solaire nodded, his voice softening. "So the legends say. But Lord Gwyn… he sacrificed himself to sustain the First Flame, the source of light and life in this world. By offering his very soul to the fire, he prolonged the Age of Fire, holding back the encroaching dark. But in doing so, he abandoned his sun."
Naruto frowned. "So, what, the sun's fading?"
"The light of his sun has waned," Solaire replied. "Though it still hangs in the heavens, it is but a shadow of its former glory. The warmth it once radiated grows colder, dimmer with each passing age. And so, I find myself here, in Lordran, seeking my own sun. A sun unbound by the fading flame, a light that will never dim."
Naruto blinked, unsure how to respond. "That's… a lot."
Solaire chuckled, the sound tinged with melancholy. "Yes, perhaps it is. To seek one's own sun may seem a strange and impossible quest, but it is one I cannot abandon. For what is life without purpose, my young friend? Without something brilliant to strive for?"
Naruto scratched the back of his head. "You're weird, you know that?"
"I've been told as much," Solaire replied. "But I find your honesty refreshing. You, young one, seem to shine with a light of your own."
"Thanks… uh, Sunbro."
"Sunbro?"
"Yeah, I like giving nicknames to people I like. And I like you. So, Sunbro it is."
Solaire let out a soft laugh. "Well, I must admit, I rather like the sound of that. Sunbro it is, then."
Naruto glanced back toward the bridge, the hulking form of the red-scaled wyvern perched atop the tower at its far end. "Anyway, I think I'm gonna go take that thing down. The bell's on the other side, right?"
"A bold claim, young squire. Do you even know what you're up against?"
"Yeah, a dragon," Naruto replied casually.
"Not quite," Solaire said with a faint air of correction. "That, my friend, is no dragon—it's a Hellkite Wyvern."
Naruto frowned. "What's the difference?"
Solaire raised a finger as if giving a lecture.
"A dragon," Solaire began, "is a creature of ancient power—true dragons have four legs, four wings, and two jaws capable of rending the heavens. They are beings of unparalleled strength, resilience, and majesty. But there is a difference, young squire, between the Everlasting Dragons and those born of lesser bloodlines. The Everlasting Dragons are eternal; their scales, formed of stone, render them impervious to harm. They are not just creatures—they are embodiments of the world's primal order, existing beyond time and death. They do not fear, nor do they hunger. They simply are."
Naruto nodded slowly, though his eyes betrayed a mix of fascination and bewilderment.
"A wyvern, however," Solaire continued, "is something altogether different. It has but two legs and two wings, and it lacks the eternal grace of its draconic ancestors. The wyvern is a cunning predator, born to hunt, strike swiftly, and dominate its domain. Its fiery breath can incinerate even the hardiest foes, and it is far more agile than any dragon. But while a dragon is a force of nature—an unyielding embodiment of the world itself—a wyvern is a mortal creature, subject to the limits of flesh, blood, and bone."
Naruto scratched his chin, trying to keep it all straight. "So dragons are like… ancient gods, and wyverns are their wannabe cousins who took steroids?"
Solaire chuckled at the analogy, shaking his head. "If you wish to simplify it, perhaps so. But do not let the wyvern's lesser stature fool you. Its ferocity and cunning make it a fearsome opponent. To underestimate it is to invite death."
"Toh-may-toh, toh-mah-toh. Still gonna kill it."
Solaire's voice grew lighter. "Oh, are you now?"
"Yeah," Naruto said confidently. "That thing's sitting between me and my goal. Can't let it live, can I?"
Solaire straightened up, a newfound excitement in his posture. "Well then, young squire, I have a proposition."
Naruto raised an eyebrow. "What kind of proposition?"
Solaire stepped forward. "I propose we engage in jolly cooperation—to vanquish this beast together! What say you?"
Naruto smirked. "I could use the help carrying its corpse back. Let's do it, Sunbro."
The two warriors stood side by side, gazing at the wyvern in the distance. Its form exuded menace, its wings shifting slightly as it remained perched on the tower.
"So, any ideas?" Naruto asked. "Because that thing's fire breath is insane."
Solaire chuckled softly, reaching behind him to retrieve a talisman. Its design was intricate, with white cloth flowing from the top like a banner. Naruto immediately felt the air change, an electric charge building in the atmosphere.
"No need to worry, my little friend. Observe."
Solaire's voice carried an unusual gravity as he raised the talisman high, golden light crackling in his palm. The air grew thick with the sharp, metallic tang of ozone, the pressure building as he formed a spear of pure lightning.
Naruto's eyes widened as he watched the miracle take form. The golden bolt hummed with energy, a radiant beacon of power in the misty air. Solaire's arm drew back, and with a fluid motion, he hurled the lightning spear toward the wyvern.
The bolt tore through the air like a thunderclap, faster than Naruto could track. The impact was immediate—a flash of golden light, followed by an ear-splitting roar as the wyvern screamed in pain. Its massive body twisted, wings flaring as it leapt from the tower toward the bridge.
Naruto grinned, his muscles tensing. Now that's my cue.
Without hesitation, he activated the Fist of the Peregrine, his body enveloped in the invisible wind cloak as he surged forward with unparalleled speed. The bridge became a blur beneath his feet as his senses honed in on the wyvern. For a moment, his jaw almost dropped—Solaire was keeping up with him.
Naruto's grin widened.
"Let's show this thing what jolly cooperation looks like, Sunbro!"
He leapt forward, ready to strike.
Naruto couldn't believe it. He was fighting a dragon—or, well, a wyvern, but honestly, who cared about the technicalities when something that big was actively trying to kill you?
The Hellkite Wyvern towered before him, its scales gleaming a fiery red as the sunlight danced across its massive form. Its eyes—yellow and predatory—locked onto Naruto. For a brief moment, he caught the slitted pupil narrowing, a flicker of cold intelligence.
Let's see how smart you really are.
Naruto raised the massive blade high over his shoulder, aiming for the wyvern's eye. He saw it clearly now—a yellow orb ringed with thin veins, full of malice and raw power.
The blade came down, a perfect downward cut, but the wyvern reared its head up with startling speed. The sudden movement created a powerful gust of wind that blasted Naruto back a step. He skidded to a halt, boots scraping against the stone as he steadied himself.
Fast…
The wyvern's head snapped to the side like a striking snake, its jaws wide open and aiming for Naruto.
"Watch out!" Solaire's voice rang out just as Naruto's body flickered away, reappearing several feet back.
The wyvern's head collided with Solaire's shield, the sound of metal meeting flesh reverberating across the bridge. The knight dug his heels in, bracing against the sheer force of the blow. His shield trembled under the impact, but Solaire held firm, pushing back with the strength of a seasoned warrior.
Naruto didn't let the impressive display slow him down. While the wyvern's head was occupied with Solaire, he flashed forward in a blur of motion, angling his Zweihander for a thrust at the creature's unguarded neck.
But before he could connect, the wyvern's wings snapped open. The sudden movement was like a thunderclap, and the force of the flapping wings sent a blast of wind roaring across the bridge. Naruto staggered, planting his sword into the ground to keep from being thrown off balance.
The Hellkite Wyvern launched itself into the air, its massive body casting a shadow over the bridge. Its jaws opened wide, and Naruto's stomach dropped as he saw the telltale glow of fire building within its throat.
"Run!" Solaire yelled, already moving.
But Naruto didn't budge. Instead, there was a puff of smoke as six clones materialized around him in a semicircle.
The wyvern unleashed a torrent of fire, a veritable waterfall of flames that cascaded down onto the bridge. The heat was immediate and suffocating, warping the air around them.
"Now!" Naruto shouted.
The clones clenched their talismans in unison, white energy crackling around their hands.
A dome of compressed shockwaves erupted around them as the Force miracles activated simultaneously. The barrier pushed outward, shielding them from the worst of the flames. Again and again, the clones repeated the miracle, each blast of Force holding the fire at bay for a few precious seconds.
Inside the dome, Naruto winced. "Eighteen charges down. Three left."
Solaire glanced at him, impressed. "Young squire, are you… are you part of the Way of White covenant?"
Naruto snorted, even as sweat dripped down his brow. "Nope. Got tricked into joining them. But hey, free miracle, right?"
Solaire let out a booming laugh, the sound almost absurd given the situation. "Indeed! A most fortunate deception, it seems."
As the fire finally began to die down, the two warriors exchanged a look.
"This is our chance," Solaire said, gripping his talisman. "A wyvern's guard drops after a prolonged attack. And remember: lightning is a dragon's weakness."
Naruto smirked. "Too bad I don't have a lightning chakra nature, huh? But I've got the next best thing."
Reaching into his inventory, he pulled out some Gold Pine Resin and applied it to his Zweihander. The blade crackled with electricity, arcs of golden lightning running along its length.
"A fine choice, young squire." Solaire held up his talisman, a glowing Lightning Spear forming in his hand. "But I dare say mine is better."
"Wanna bet?"
Instead of replying, Solaire hurled the spear upward with a fluid motion. It shot through the air like a thunderbolt, slamming into the wyvern's chest. The creature roared, its massive body twisting in pain as it landed on the far side of the bridge with a thunderous crash.
Naruto squinted, his eyes narrowing as he took in the wyvern's battered form. A jagged, nasty scar now stretched across its chest, blackish-gray blood oozing from the wound like tar.
Naruto flickered forward, his sword poised for a strike. The wyvern reared back, its mouth opening to unleash another stream of fire. But before the flames could erupt, its wings flared out, creating a wall of searing heat.
Naruto jumped back just in time, sweat pouring down his face inside his armor. Damn thing's got a lot of tricks…
The Hellkite Wyvern suddenly hovered, its massive wings keeping it aloft as it flew toward him. Its claws raked the air, its mouth glowing with fire once more.
Naruto's mind raced. He had seconds to react.
Just as the fire began to ignite, Naruto body flickered to the side, launching himself off the bridge. In midair, he whipped a kunai with an explosive tag attached, hurling it directly into the wyvern's open mouth.
The explosion was immediate, the force of it sending the wyvern reeling backward. Solaire seized the moment, his straight sword finding its mark as he drove it through the wyvern's eye.
The creature thrashed violently, its massive body twisting and writhing as Solaire clung to his sword.
Naruto's eyes widened as he saw it—the scar on the wyvern's chest was knitting itself back together. The black blood slowed, then stopped entirely.
Gripping another kunai tightly, Naruto infused it with wind chakra, watching as the blade shimmered faintly with energy before hurling it into the stone of the bridge above. The blade embedded itself with a sharp thunk, quivering as the attached ninja wire unraveled, stretching taut as Naruto grabbed hold.
The wire held fast, and for a moment, Naruto swung freely beneath the structure, the wind roaring in his ears. The world seemed to slow as he soared in a wide arc—until he realized that beneath the main bridge was another bridge. It wasn't as wide or as solid, but it stretched along the same path, its moss-covered stone shimmering faintly in the light.
Naruto's sharp eyes picked out details as he swung downward. The platform below wasn't just a random ledge—it had thick stone pillars supporting the upper bridge, wrapped in moss and vines.
To the side of the platform, partially hidden, was a stone doorway leading into darkness. Why was it here, beneath the bridge?
The wyvern's roar snapped him back to reality. Quickly forming a hand seal, he summoned a shadow clone on the lower platform.
Using the momentum of the swing, Naruto shot upward in a smooth arc, landing back on the far side of the bridge. The Hellkite's flames roared in the distance as he drew his Zweihander.
"Solaire!" he yelled. "It's healing!"
The knight didn't look back, his grip tightening on the sword lodged in the wyvern's eye.
The wyvern thrashed wildly, dislodging Solaire from its side and launching him back onto the bridge with a heavy crash. Naruto's eyes darted toward the wyvern, which suddenly beat its massive wings and soared into the sky, fire licking at its maw.
"Did we… scare it off?" Naruto asked, a flicker of hope in his voice as the creature disappeared into the clouds.
"No," Solaire said grimly, his hand shielding his visor as he looked upward. "It's coming back."
And then they saw it.
High above, the wyvern unleashed a torrent of flames, the fiery breath enveloping its entire form as it soared into the inferno. The blaze clung to its scales, transforming the creature into a blazing comet of destruction.
As it plummeted through the air, its entire body wreathed in roaring fire, the wyvern became something beyond a mere predator—it was a living calamity, a force of annihilation hurtling toward the earth with relentless fury. The very sky seemed to burn in its wake, the heat and intensity searing through the atmosphere as it aimed to obliterate everything in its path.
Solaire instinctively took a step toward the castle. "We need to retreat—"
Naruto grabbed his arm. "I have a better idea."
Solaire hesitated, then nodded. "What is the plan?"
Naruto pulled a smoke bomb from his pouch and threw it to the ground, the area around them instantly shrouded in thick gray fog. In the cover of the smoke, he created two shadow clones. One of them immediately transformed into Solaire, striking a dramatic pose with his hands on his hips.
"Aren't I dashing?" the fake Solaire said, his voice mimicking the knight perfectly.
"Quite the impressive imitation, young squire, but what are your clones supposed to do?"
Naruto smirked, pulling a grappling hook from his pouch. "Simple—they'll run to the center of the bridge to make sure the wyvern doesn't land anywhere near us. Distraction is key."
Solaire watched the clones sprint up to the bridge's center with reckless abandon.
Naruto threw the grappling hook toward the battlement near the castle gate, ensuring it lodged firmly into the stone. Wrapping one arm tightly around Solaire, he grinned.
"Hang on, Sunbro."
The timing couldn't have been better—or worse.
As Naruto and Solaire jumped off the side of the bridge, the Hellkite Wyvern descended like a burning apocalypse. Wreathed in flames, it crashed into the center of the bridge with catastrophic force. The sheer power of the impact sent shockwaves tearing through the air, the sound of shattering stone and roaring fire echoing across Lordran like a thunderclap.
The center of the bridge buckled under the wyvern's weight and momentum. Massive cracks spiderwebbed across the structure as its claws dug deep into the stone, anchoring it in place. For a moment, it seemed the bridge might hold—but then the entire section crumbled with a deafening roar. Chunks of stone, now glowing red-hot from the heat, rained down in an avalanche as the central portion of the bridge collapsed.
The wyvern roared in fury as its perch gave way beneath it, the flames clinging to its body casting wild, flickering shadows against the castle walls. It thrashed its massive wings, trying to lift off, but the collapsing structure dragged it down. The once-proud bridge split in two, the destroyed section plunging into the abyss below in a hailstorm of fire and stone.
Naruto and Solaire dangled precariously from the grappling hook, swinging wildly as the shockwave from the collapse hit them. Heat and ash billowed up from below, the air around them thick with the choking smell of sulfur and scorched stone.
Naruto whistled, gripping the wire tightly as they swayed in the open air. "Yeah… that would've been certain death."
Solaire chuckled softly. "Well, my young friend, I must admit—your timing is impeccable."
"Eh, just another day for me," Naruto quipped, though his knuckles were white as he held onto the wire. He glanced up at the smoldering remains of the bridge. "I really hope that thing stays down this time."
As if answering his hopes, the Hellkite Wyvern let out another enraged roar, its massive wings beating furiously as it managed to rise into the air once more. Dust and ash swirled around it as it hovered menacingly over the ruined bridge.
Naruto groaned. "Of course. It's still alive. Why wouldn't it be?"
Solaire adjusted his grip on Naruto's shoulder. "Fear not, young squire. Where there is life, there is hope."
"Yeah, but I was kind of hoping it didn't have this much life," Naruto replied as he adjusted their swing. "We just need to figure out how to kill that thing before it turns us into barbecue."
Naruto released the hook, landing them both on the lower platform. They pressed themselves against one of the stone pillars for cover as the wyvern circled back to the remains of the upper bridge.
"We need to sever its tail."
Naruto blinked. "Uh… why?"
Solaire pointed up. "Draconic beings like the wyvern have multiple hearts. One of these hearts is magical in nature—a trait inherited from their ancestors, the Everlasting Dragons. For true dragons, this magical heart is the source of their immortality, hidden beneath their invulnerable scales. Lesser draconic creatures, like this wyvern, also have a magical heart, though it serves a different purpose—it fuels their regenerative abilities. Severing the tail will disrupt the flow of this energy."
Solaire stepped out slightly on the platform as he saw that the wyvern had perched itself on the castle side again, its massive tail flicking back and forth like a serpent waiting to strike. "We'll need to act quickly while it thinks we are dead."
"I got this," Naruto said confidently. "I'll hit the tail with a bunch of clones and take it out in one swoop. Plus, I've got lightning!"
He brandished his Zweihander, only for it to sputter and lose its spark.
Naruto groaned. "Oh, come on! Gold Pine Resin stops working that fast? Fine, I've got more—and if not, I'll just use Vacuum Blade."
"I have no idea what that means, but it sounds promising."
Naruto grinned. "Don't worry, Sunbro. I've got this."
Solaire nodded, grabbing Naruto's ninja wire. "And I'll attack when it's vulnerable."
Naruto watched in amusement as Solaire swung back and forth with the wire, building momentum. The knight seemed to be enjoying himself, his armor clanking slightly as he moved.
"Man, this guy is way too jolly for a deathmatch," Naruto muttered under his breath before turning to scout the area.
As he moved toward the edge of the platform, Naruto spotted a hollow hiding behind one of the pillars. Its empty eyes stared at him, blade trembling as it prepared to attack.
Naruto didn't even hesitate—he kicked the hollow square in the chest, sending it plummeting off the platform with a fading shriek.
Naruto channeled chakra into his feet, his body sticking effortlessly to the stone wall of the castle as he scaled it. His sharp blue eyes locked onto the wyvern's massive tail. It swayed back and forth like a battering ram, cutting through the air with a menacing whoosh that promised devastation to anything foolish enough to get too close. Naruto paused just far enough to avoid being struck and quickly formulated a plan.
With a puff of smoke, two clones appeared beside him, each wielding Zweihanders imbued with wind chakra. The massive blades hummed ominously, the air around them swirling with a faint, almost razor-sharp distortion.
Naruto reached into his inventory and pulled out some Gold Pine Resin. Smearing the resin across his own Zweihander, he watched as arcs of golden lightning began crackling along the blade's surface. Two more clones materialized next to him, their weapons also sparking with electrified energy.
In perfect unison, the clones surged forward with Naruto, their blades slicing through the air as they closed in on the target.
SCHLICK!
The sound of steel severing flesh echoed through the air as the wyvern's tail was severed completely, the sheer force of the combined attacks leaving nothing but a ragged, bloody stump. A fountain of blackened blood sprayed into the sky as the massive appendage crashed to the ground.
The wyvern's reaction was instant. It let out an ear-piercing roar that shook the castle walls, the sound reverberating through Naruto's chest. But before the severed tail could fully fall below, something horrifying happened.
The jagged end of the tail writhed violently, muscles and sinew peeling back like grotesque petals unfurling to reveal a mass of bloody, pulsating tendrils. They sprang to life, snapping out like vipers toward Naruto and his clones. The coiling appendages slithered through the air with terrifying precision, lashing out as if driven by a singular purpose. Their target was clear—the broken Astora Straight Sword strapped to Naruto's hip.
"What the hell?!" Naruto shouted, stumbling back as the tendrils closed in. They weren't just alive—they were hungry. He drew his blade, slashing wildly at the writhing mass, but the tendrils only recoiled for a moment before regenerating, growing back stronger and faster.
His clones darted into action, their blades carving through the tendrils in synchronized strikes. Yet, it was like cutting through water; the writhing appendages simply regrouped, their focus never wavering from the Astora Straight Sword.
One tendril finally broke through the defensive strikes, slamming into the broken blade with a sickening crack. The force sent Naruto staggering backward, his heart lurching as the sword was torn free from his hip.
"No!" Naruto shouted, diving forward, reaching out in desperation.
His master's blade—the last remnant of Sir Oscar—was pulled into the chaotic mass of the wyvern's severed tail. The tendrils coiled tightly around the broken sword, drawing it into the pulsating, sinewy flesh as if claiming it for themselves.
Naruto froze, his mind blanking. His clones froze too, their expressions mirroring his devastation.
They could feel their heartbeats pounding in their ears.
The Astora Straight Sword was gone. Just gone.
And then, it happened.
[ You have acquired the Drake Sword. ]
Naruto immediately took out the sword from his inventory.
He held the Drake Sword, its weight dense and commanding. The blade was wide and sharp, its surface textured like dragon scales, with faint ember-like veins pulsing along its length. The crossguard had twisted into curved draconic horns, giving it an ominous, predatory look. The hilt was thick, wrapped in scaled leather that felt foreign yet solid in his grip.
[ Item: Drake Sword ]
[ Type: Magic ]
[ Description: This sword, one of the rare dragon weapons, is formed by combining a Wyvern's heart with the Astora Straight Sword. Drakes are seen as undeveloped imitators of the dragons, but they are likely their distant kin. The sword is imbued with a mystical power waiting to be released. ]
A sudden, thunderous thud snapped Naruto back to the present. Wasting no time, he bolted up the wall, his chakra-infused steps carrying him effortlessly to the top of the castle walls. As he reached the summit, his breath caught at the sight before him.
Solaire stood in the center of the broken bridge. The Hellkite Wyvern was circling above, its massive wings tearing through the air like storm gales, its remaining eye locked on the lone knight with murderous intent.
Solaire, undeterred, banged his sword against his shield, the clang echoing like a challenge across the shattered remnants of the bridge.
"Come, beast! Let's see if you burn brighter than the sun itself!"
The wyvern answered the challenge, roaring so loudly the very air seemed to vibrate. It launched itself forward with terrifying speed, its fiery body a streak of red and black against the gray skies. The ground quaked beneath its impact as its claws scraped across the ruined bridge. The beast's mouth opened wide, flames pooling within, ready to engulf the knight in a fiery death.
But Solaire didn't falter. Instead, he charged forward with insane determination, leaping directly into the beast's path. Flames consumed him, wrapping around his armor like a second skin, but the madman didn't stop.
With a shout of pure defiance, he plunged his sword directly into the wyvern's remaining eye. The blade sank deep into the creature's skull. The wyvern shrieked in agony, rearing back as blood spurted from the wound, its flames sputtering chaotically.
Naruto stood high above the battlement, barely able to contain his laughter. Despite the chaos, despite the danger, he couldn't help himself.
"That guy's completely insane," he muttered, shaking his head as he watched Solaire battle below.
Then his grin widened.
"Guess I better match him."
Without a moment's hesitation, Naruto launched himself forward, kicking off the wall with explosive force.
His body cut through the air, Zweihander crackling with golden lightning in one hand and the newly reforged Drake Sword pulsing with wind chakra in the other. The energy radiating from the Drake Sword was wild, hungrier than expected, draining his reserves at an alarming rate.
But he didn't care.
Naruto poured everything into it, forcing his wind chakra to spiral and condense until the weapon practically hummed with raw, destructive force. With a battle cry, he twisted his body mid-air, aiming for a devastating plunge attack.
The world slowed.
The wind howled around him, whipping into a frenzy under the Drake Sword's power. The lightning coursing through the Zweihander bathed the battlefield in flickering gold and silver light, casting jagged shadows over the ruins below. The wyvern reared back, its maw opening wide, the embers at the back of its throat blazing to life.
But Naruto was already there.
The impact was cataclysmic. The Zweihander carved deep into the wyvern's neck, the electrified steel sizzling against its scales, sending a violent surge of lightning through its body.
At the same time, the Drake Sword connected with its spine, the compressed wind chakra detonating outward like a hurricane made of blades.
A deafening boom split the air.
For a moment... the world held its breath.
Then the wyvern's body began to split apart.
From the point of impact, a jagged wound tore through its entire length. The sheer force of Naruto's attack ripped muscle, bone, and sinew apart, slicing through the mighty creature as if it were paper. The wyvern let out one final, guttural shriek, its lifeblood—thick, black, and steaming— pouring onto the bridge in torrential waves. Its massive halves toppled, sliding toward the ruined edges of the battlement.
Naruto landed hard on the crumbling stone, his body buzzing with adrenaline-fueled weightlessness.
He turned just in time to see the severed halves of the wyvern teetering on the brink then they plunged into the abyss below.
For a long moment, all was still.
Naruto's breath heaved, his hands trembling as he tightened his grip around his weapons. The golden glow of the Zweihander flickered out, while the hungry pulse of the Drake Sword slowly faded.
His heart thundered in his chest.
"Did I just… do that?"
The world answered him.
A massive soul orb materialized above the ruined bridge, a deep crimson glow radiating power and heat. It was larger than any soul Naruto had ever seen, its eerie light pulsing, almost alive, as if acknowledging his victory.
Naruto stared, mesmerized until a familiar voice broke through his thoughts.
"Impressive power."
Naruto turned to see Solaire approaching, his armor dented, his cloak singed from battle—but his grin as bright as ever.
"I see you've managed to forge quite the monstrous weapon," Solaire added, nodding toward Naruto's blade.
Naruto lifted the Drake Sword, studying its jagged, scaled surface. It felt different now, heavier—more than just a weapon.
But his grip faltered slightly.
"Yeah…" His voice was quiet. "But it came at a cost."
"What do you mean?"
Naruto exhaled, his expression unreadable.
"This sword… it used to be my master's." He tightened his hold. "Oscar's Astora Straight Sword."
For a moment, Solaire said nothing. "Ah," he murmured. "But young squire, your master's sword hasn't been lost."
"What do you mean?"
Solaire gestured to the blade. "It has simply been transformed."
"Transformed?"
"The essence of the wyvern's heart has fused with your blade, amplifying its power. The Astora Straight Sword isn't gone—it has conquered the heart of the wyvern, bending it to your will. And now, that strength is yours to wield."
"So… it's still part of Oscar's sword? Just… different?"
"Precisely." Solaire clapped Naruto on the shoulder. "Your master's legacy remains with you, stronger than ever. And, I dare say, Oscar would be proud to see his blade turned into something capable of slaying a wyvern."
A small smile tugged at Naruto's lips.
That thought—of Oscar's strength still guiding him—made his chest feel lighter.
"Thanks, man. That… actually makes me feel a lot better."
"Good. It should. Such power comes not from loss, but from perseverance. And if I may add—" his grin widened, "from a touch of madness. Yours, of course."
Naruto barked out a laugh, shaking his head.
"Yeah, yeah, I get it. I'm a crazy idiot." He turned the blade over in his hands, still marveling at the change. "But seriously, how did this even happen?"
"A dragon—or wyvern, in this case—is bound by its essence. Their very nature resists death," Solaire explained. "Their hearts act as the core of their existence. Even in defeat, a draconic heart will seek to preserve itself."
"So… you're saying the wyvern's heart latched onto Oscar's sword because it didn't want to die?"
"Exactly." Solaire nodded. "Draconic beings cling to life as fiercely as they fight to defend it. Their willpower is unmatched. And now, that unyielding spirit resides in your hands."
Naruto's grin sharpened.
"So basically, Oscar's sword tamed a dragon's heart and made it its… uh, servant?"
"A fitting way to put it, my friend. But yes, that is the nature of Lordran. Even in death, something can be reforged, given a new purpose."
Naruto smirked. "You're really good at this whole 'wise mentor' thing, you know that?"
"It is a skill I've honed in my travels," Solaire said proudly. "Now, speaking of rewards, I believe you have earned that soul."
"You sure?" he asked. "I mean, I couldn't have done this without you. You stabbed that thing in the eye. Pretty sure you're the MVP here."
Solaire simply shook his head, lifting a hand in refusal.
"No, young squire. The soul is yours."
His voice was firm, leaving no room for argument.
"You were the one who severed the wyvern's tail. You wielded the final blow with both courage and cunning. This triumph is yours, not mine."
Naruto shifted awkwardly.
"Man, you make it sound like I'm some kinda hero or something…"
Solaire's expression softened.
"Perhaps you are."
Naruto blinked.
Solaire stepped forward, his voice steady but warm. "Bravery comes in many forms, my friend. And today, yours shone brighter than the fiercest flames."
He glanced at the floating soul, then back at Naruto. His grin returned, a touch of mischief in his eyes.
"And besides, I don't need a soul to remind me of this day. I have something far greater—" he clapped Naruto on the shoulder, "the memory of fighting alongside a warrior like you."
Naruto felt a warmth spread through his chest—not from the soul, but from those words.
He rubbed his nose, looking away. "Tch. Thanks, Sunbro. You're not so bad yourself."
Solaire gasped in mock offense. "Not so bad? I'll have you know, young squire, I am exceedingly good."
Naruto laughed, shaking his head before turning back to the soul orb.
Its light pulsed again, almost as if it were calling to him.
Taking a deep breath, he reached out, brushing his fingers against its surface.
[ You Have Acquired 10,000 Souls ]
Author's Note
Solaire has finally made his entrance, and what an introduction it was. This chapter was all about jolly cooperation, insane battles, and Naruto's first real test against a wyvern.
Now that Solaire has been properly introduced, I want to hear your thoughts on his characterization. Did he feel true to his in-game portrayal? How did you interpret his philosophy and way of speaking? His unwavering optimism, his poetic way of viewing the world—do you think I captured that essence?
On another note, let's talk about power scaling. Solaire is clearly no ordinary warrior. Where do you rank him? Would you place him at chūnin level, jōnin level, or even higher?
And what about Naruto? With the Drake Sword now reforged from Oscar's blade, his power has clearly taken another leap forward. But just how much stronger has he become?
Finally, what should Naruto focus on next? Should he refine his strength? Develop his dexterity? Or perhaps explore the potential of his connection with faith and miracles?
Let me know your thoughts. How did you like Solaire's portrayal? What was your favorite moment from the wyvern fight? And where do you think Naruto's journey should take him next?
Until next time—stay sharp, keep your bonfires lit, and never stop seeking your own sun.