Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Chapter 74: Tempest of Despair and Hope

Author's Note:

Hello, dear readers! It's a lengthy one—over 5,000 words—as requested! 📜 I hope you find yourself immersed in the unfolding drama. Please remember to like and comment; your feedback fuels my writing spirit! My exam are done next update on Saturday and we will be back with our 3 chapters a week from next Tuesday. 🙏🔥 

Enjoy!

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"In the darkest storms, even the smallest light can guide you to safety."

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Last time on NLHOS:

Jiraiya's gaze darkened, his eyes glinting with a rare fury as the realization set in. Their control over Naruto had been an illusion, and now they were facing the backlash of a storm they themselves had unleashed.

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Now:

The once-vibrant forests surrounding the Hidden Mist Village were now shrouded in an oppressive fog, thicker than usual, as if mirroring the despair that had settled over the land. The scent of damp earth mingled with the acrid smell of smoke from distant fires, remnants of battles lost.

Deep within this labyrinth of mist and shadows, the rebel camp was a hive of restless activity. Tents were hastily packed, whispers exchanged in hushed tones, and eyes darted warily toward the perimeter. The atmosphere was heavy with fear and uncertainty.

In the largest tent at the center of the camp, Mei Terumī stood hunched over a worn map spread across a makeshift table. Her usually confident gaze was clouded, a furrow etched deep between her brows. Beside her, Ao adjusted his eyepatch, his face grim.

"We've lost contact with the southern outpost," Ao reported, his voice tight. "No survivors."

Mei closed her eyes briefly, a pained expression crossing her features. "That's the third one this week," she whispered. "Yagura's forces are closing in faster than we anticipated and now they have outside help."

Ao slammed his fist onto the table, rattling the few remaining markers that represented their dwindling forces. "Our informants have been compromised. He's anticipating our every move."

A young rebel burst into the tent, panting heavily. "Lady Mei! Another group of bloodline users... they've... they've..."

"Spit it out," Ao snapped, though a hint of dread laced his tone.

"They've taken their own lives," the young man blurted out, anguish evident in his eyes. "They feared capture after what happened in the eastern village."

Mei's hands clenched into fists, her nails digging into her palms. "Damn it," she hissed. "How many more must we lose?"

Ao's shoulders sagged. "Morale is at an all-time low. Stories of Yagura's men's atrocities are spreading faster than we can contain them. People are losing hope."

Mei turned away, her gaze distant. Memories of smiling faces, now gone, flashed before her eyes. Families torn apart, friends lost in the endless cycle of violence. The weight of leadership pressed heavily upon her.

Outside, the camp buzzed with uneasy murmurs. Groups huddled together, some in silent prayer, others in subdued conversation.

"Did you hear about the remanent of Hoshigaki clan?" a woman whispered to her companion. "They chose death over capture."

Her friend shuddered. "Can you blame them? After what Yagura's men did to the some of their brotherin survivors..."

The conversation was cut short as a hush fell over the camp. A distant rumble echoed through the mist-laden forest, like thunder foretelling an approaching storm.

Mei stepped out of the tent, her senses on high alert. "What now?" she muttered.

From the treeline, a scout emerged, sprinting toward them with urgency. "Lady Mei! Enemy forces approaching from the north and west! We're surrounded!"

Ao cursed under his breath. "They've boxed us in."

Mei's mind raced. "Gather everyone. We need to break through their lines before it's too late."

"Break through?" Ao questioned. "With what forces? We're outnumbered and outmatched."

A voice from the crowd called out, "Maybe it's time we surrendered and commit seppuku before the get us. At least then, we die painlessly."

"No!" Mei snapped, her eyes blazing. "You know what happens to those who surrender. We've seen the aftermath. And suicide is cowards way out. We fight and we die."

A heavy silence settled over the group. The reality of their situation was bleak. The walls were closing in, and options were running out.

Suddenly, a distant melody floated through the air—a haunting tune carried on the wind. It was a song of mourning, traditionally sung at funerals. The rebels exchanged uneasy glances.

"Even the spirits mourn us," someone whispered.

Mei's gaze hardened. "Enough of this. We are not defeated yet."

Just then, the mist around them began to swirl unnaturally. The temperature dropped, and a palpable energy thrummed in the air.

Ao's single eye widened. "Do you feel that?"

Before anyone could respond, a powerful gust of wind tore through the camp, extinguishing fires and causing tents to billow wildly. The rebels braced themselves, weapons drawn.

From within the churning mist, shadows materialized—figures clad in the armor of Yagura's elite forces.

"They're here!" someone shouted.

Chaos erupted as the enemy descended upon the camp. Clashes of steel rang out, punctuated by cries of pain and fury. Mei and Ao leaped into action, coordinating defences amidst the turmoil.

"Form a perimeter!" Mei commanded, unleashing a stream of lava toward the advancing foes. The molten substance sizzled as it met its targets, forcing them to scatter.

Ao activated his sensory technique, scanning the battlefield. "They're everywhere! We need to fall back!"

Mei gritted her teeth. "There's nowhere left to go."

Amidst the fray, a group of rebels attempted to escort civilians to safety, only to be cut off by more of Yagura's men. Desperation set in as they realized escape was impossible.

A young girl with crystalline eyes clutched a small child to her chest. "Mama, what's happening?" the child whimpered.

"Hush now," the woman soothed, though her own voice trembled. "It'll be okay."

An enemy shinobi advanced toward them, blade raised. Time seemed to slow as the woman closed her eyes, bracing for the inevitable.

A sudden flash of red streaked across the battlefield, and the attacker was sent hurtling backward, crashing into a tree with bone-crushing force.

The woman opened her eyes, stunned to see a figure standing protectively before her. Spiky red hair caught the dim light, and a cloak billowed around him like a storm cloud.

"Get to safety," he instructed firmly, his voice carrying over the din of battle.

She nodded numbly, scooping up the child and retreating hastily.

Mei caught sight of the newcomer, her heart skipping a beat. "It can't be..."

Ao followed her gaze, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief. "Naruto Uzumaki."

As if sensing their attention, Naruto glanced in their direction, his piercing azure eyes meeting Mei's for a fleeting moment. There was no time for reunions; the enemy pressed on.

"Focus on the fight!" Ao shouted, snapping Mei back to the present.

Naruto moved through the battlefield with fluid grace, his movements a dance of lethal precision. Drawing his legendary blade, Arashi no Megami, he deflected incoming attacks with ease, arcs of crackling energy trailing each swing.

"Storm Release: Tempest Barrage!"

He thrust his palm forward, unleashing a torrent of wind and lightning that swept through the enemy ranks, scattering them like leaves in a hurricane.

Rebels stared in awe as the tide of battle began to shift. Hope flickered in their eyes, tempered by caution.

"Is he here to help us?" someone dared to ask.

"Or finish us off," another muttered.

Mei shook off her hesitation. "All units, rally to me! Push them back!"

Emboldened by Naruto's intervention, the rebels regrouped, mounting a renewed defense. Ao directed sharpshooters to take vantage points, picking off enemy shinobi with deadly accuracy.

Naruto continued to carve a path through the opposition, his expression stoic yet focused. He intercepted a group attempting to flank the rebels, dispatching them with swift strikes.

A particularly large enemy shinobi charged at him, wielding a massive hammer. "Die, traitor!"

Naruto sidestepped the swing effortlessly. "You're out of your depth."

He placed a hand on the man's chest. "Paralysis Seal!"

Intricate symbols spread across the attacker's body, freezing him in place. Naruto moved on without a backward glance.

Within minutes, the enemy forces began to falter. Confusion spread as their numbers dwindled unexpectedly.

"Retreat!" their captain ordered, realizing the battle was lost.

Cheers erupted from the rebels as Yagura's men fled back into the mist. The immediate threat had passed, but tension lingered.

Naruto sheathed his sword, turning to face the assembled rebels. Silence fell, broken only by the distant echoes of the retreating enemy.

Mei stepped forward cautiously. "Naruto... why are you here?"

He met her gaze steadily, he saw how she was covered with bandages and was wounded may be from a previous battle. "To help."

Ao scoffed. "Help? After all this time? You expect us to believe that?"

Murmurs of agreement rippled through the crowd. Suspicion and resentment simmered beneath the surface.

Naruto took a deep breath. "I know we didn't part on the best terms. I don't expect immediate trust. But right now, you need all the help you can get."

"He's right," a voice piped up. The woman from earlier stepped forward, still holding the child. "He saved us."

Others nodded hesitantly, recalling his actions on the battlefield.

Mei's eyes narrowed slightly. "Your timing is... fortuitous."

"Or calculated," Ao interjected. "How do we know this isn't some ploy?"

Naruto regarded him calmly. "You don't. But consider the alternative. Yagura is tightening his grip. More lives will be lost if we don't act."

A heavy silence settled over the group. Finally, Mei spoke. "What do you propose?"

"First, we need to relocate," Naruto replied. "This position is compromised. I can provide a safe route."

Ao crossed his arms. "And why should we follow you?"

"Because staying here means certain death or worse," Naruto said bluntly. "I've already scouted ahead. There's a network of tunnels that can lead us to a secure location."

Mei exchanged a glance with Ao. "We don't have many options," she admitted.

Ao's jaw tightened. "Fine. But I'll be keeping an eye on you."

Naruto offered a slight nod. "With which eye Naruto jabbed back."

As preparations began for the swift evacuation, whispers buzzed among the rebels.

"Can we really trust him?"

"He did save us..."

"But what about before? He left us when we needed him."

Naruto ignored the hushed conversations, focusing on assisting with the wounded and organizing supplies. Despite the cold reception, he moved with purpose, his demeanor unwavering.

At the entrance to the tunnels, Mei approached him quietly. "Thank you," she said softly.

He glanced at her. "For what?"

"For coming back. For helping us, even after everything."

He shrugged lightly. "I couldn't stand by and watch more innocent lives be lost."

She studied him for a moment. "You've changed."

"Time has a way of doing that," he replied.

She hesitated before asking, "Why now? After all this time?"

He met her gaze. "Because the situation has become dire. And because I believe I can still make a difference."

Before she could respond, Ao called out, "We're ready to move."

Mei nodded. "Let's go."

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The group moved cautiously through the labyrinthine tunnels, their footsteps echoing softly against damp stone walls. Torches cast flickering shadows, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Naruto led the way, his senses attuned to any potential threats. Behind him, Mei and Ao kept pace, while the rest of the rebels followed in wary silence.

"These tunnels," Ao remarked quietly. "How did you know about them?"

"I spent time here during my earlier missions," Naruto replied. "They're remnants of an old mining operation, long forgotten."

"Convenient," Ao muttered under his breath.

After what felt like hours, the passage widened into a cavernous chamber. Stalagmites rose from the ground like jagged teeth, and a subterranean river flowed gently along one side.

"We can rest here for a while," Naruto announced, halting the group.

Exhausted, the rebels settled down, grateful for the respite. Medical teams tended to the injured, while others distributed what rations they had left.

Mei approached Naruto, her expression contemplative. "We owe you our lives, I don't want to beat around the bush, what will be the price of this 'help'."

He shook his head. "You don't owe me anything."

"Perhaps not," she conceded. "But gratitude is warranted and there is always a price."

He glanced around at the weary faces of the rebels. "These people have suffered enough. Yagura's reign needs to end but the world don't work the way we want."

She sighed softly. "Easier said than done. We've been fighting for so long, and every victory feels hollow."

"That's because you're fighting on his terms," Naruto pointed out. "It's time to change the game."

Ao, who had been listening nearby, joined the conversation. "And how do you propose we do that?"

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The following evening, the atmosphere in the rebel camp was tense. Word had spread of Naruto's return, and whispers filled the air. Many remembered him as the one who had infiltrated their ranks years ago, only to disappear when they needed him most.

Mei stood before the gathered rebels, her expression resolute. "Many of you heard the rumours," she began. "Naruto Uzumaki has returned, offering us a way out. A chance to escape the tyranny of Yagura and start anew."

Murmurs rippled through the crowd. An older man stepped forward, his eyes hardened by years of struggle. "Leave the Mist? To where? The world beyond these waters is no safer for people like us."

A young woman echoed his sentiment. "We'd be fugitives everywhere we go. At least here, we know the land."

Naruto stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the sceptical faces. "I understand your hesitation," he said calmly. "But staying here is no longer an option. Yagura's forces are closing in, and soon there will be no escape."

"Easy for you to say," someone scoffed. "You can disappear anytime you like, again."

Naruto's eyes flashed. "I've built a safe haven—a place where we can rebuild, away from the reach of oppressive regimes. But I can't do it alone. I need your help."

Ao folded his arms, scepticism evident. "And what makes you think you can succeed where others have failed? Building a new village isn't as simple as finding an empty plot of land let alone a hidden one. We need the support of a daimyo, recognition from the other nations, protection against hostilities."

"You're right," Naruto conceded. "Establishing a new settlement is with challenges. But the system will support us—it has to. The Uzumaki once had a village that was respected and acknowledged by all nations. That legacy still holds."

Mei regarded him thoughtfully. "Even so, without official backing, we'd be vulnerable. The other Kage won't take kindly to a new power rising let alone one which was destroyed by 4 of the 5."

Naruto met her gaze. "I won't reveal all the details until you agree to come with me. That's a risk you'll have to take—a leap of faith. You'll need to place complete trust in me. But on the matter of acknowledging, no will know till we are ready and we are not rebuilding Uzu."

An uneasy silence settled over the crowd.

"It's no secret that there are spies among your ranks," Naruto continued. "Information has been leaking to Yagura, jeopardizing your safety. Once we depart and I root them out, I'll share everything."

Gasps and whispers erupted as people glanced suspiciously at one another.

Ao's eyes narrowed. "That's a serious accusation."

"It's the truth," Naruto said firmly. "How else do you think Yagura's forces have been anticipating your every move?"

Mei exchanged a troubled look with Ao. "If what you say is true, we can't stay here, but how can you root them out when we couldn't?."

"But how do we know you're not manipulating us?" the older man challenged. "For all we know, you're leading us into a trap."

Naruto's expression remained unwavering. "You don't. But consider the alternative—stay here and face certain annihilation, or take a chance on a new beginning. And if this is some kind of trap, I could wipe you all out right now. Mei is badly injured, and your main fighters like Manjutsu and the others aren't here. I was one of you once; I know your strengths—and your weaknesses."

The crowd stirred, uncertainty etched on their faces.

Suddenly, a distant explosion shattered the uneasy quiet. Flames erupted on the outskirts of the camp, and the air filled with the acrid scent of smoke.

"They've found us, again!" a scout shouted, sprinting toward the group. "Yagura's forces are attacking!"

Panic surged as people scrambled to gather their belongings. Mei quickly took charge. "Everyone, stay calm! Evacuate according to plan!"

Naruto stepped back into the shadows, pulling up a mask that concealed his features. "Get your people moving," he told Mei. "I'll hold them off."

She hesitated. "How are you—"

But he was already gone, disappearing into the chaos.

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At the perimeter of the camp, enemy shinobi poured in, their numbers overwhelming. The rebels fought valiantly but were being pushed back.

Amidst the turmoil, a masked figure moved like a spectre. Clad in dark attire, he weaved through the enemy ranks with lethal efficiency, his movements a blur.

An enemy shinobi lunged at him with a kunai. The masked warrior sidestepped effortlessly, delivering a swift strike that rendered the attacker unconscious.

Another group spotted him and charged. He formed a series of rapid hand seals. "Wind Release: Gale Palm!"

A powerful gust blasted the assailants backward, knocking them off their feet.

From a vantage point, an enemy commander barked orders. "Focus on the masked one! He's disrupting our formation!"

Several skilled shinobi encircled the masked figure, weapons drawn. One of them smirked. "You think you can stop us alone?"

He tilted his head slightly. "Alone? Who said I was alone?"

Before they could react, explosive tags hidden around them detonated in succession, sowing confusion. Taking advantage of the distraction, the masked warrior unleashed a flurry of shuriken, each one finding its mark.

He moved with purpose, ensuring that no enemy survived to report back. His goal was clear: leave no witnesses.

As he engaged the remaining forces, he noticed a group of enemy shinobi advancing toward the evacuating rebels. Without hesitation, he intercepted them.

"Out of my way!" one of them snarled, launching a barrage of fireballs.

The masked figure performed a swift sequence of hand seals. "Water Release: Water Wall!"

A protective barrier of water rose up, neutralizing the flames. He then transitioned seamlessly into his next technique. "Lightning Release: Thunder Strike!"

A bolt of lightning arced from his hand, incapacitating the attackers.

Meanwhile, Mei and Ao coordinated the evacuation, guiding people toward hidden escape routes.

"Who is that masked shinobi, he is not Naruto his chakra feels different?" Ao wondered aloud, watching the figure from a distance.

Mei shook her head. "I don't know, but he's buying us precious time."

Back on the battlefield, the masked warrior faced off against the enemy commander.

"You're skilled," the commander admitted, drawing a sword. "But this ends now."

The masked figure remained silent, his stance relaxed yet poised.

They clashed, swords meeting with a resounding clang. Sparks flew as they exchanged blows, the intensity escalating.

Sensing an opening, the commander aimed a thrust at his opponent's midsection. The masked warrior sidestepped and countered with a swift strike to the commander's wrist, disarming him.

The commander snarled, attempting a desperate hand seal. "Earth Release: Rock Sp—"

He never finished. The masked figure moved behind him in an instant, delivering a precise kunai to the neck that rendered him dead.

With the enemy forces dwindling and the rebels safely on the move, the masked warrior surveyed the area. Satisfied that there were no remaining threats, he vanished into the forest, leaving behind no trace.

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Hours later, the rebels regrouped at a predetermined location deep within the forest. Exhaustion was evident, but relief mingled with the weariness.

Mei addressed the crowd. "We managed to escape, thanks in part to our mysterious ally."

Ao nodded. "Whoever he was, he managed to take out a significant portion of the enemy forces. If the chakra of the masked man wasn't so distinct, I would have thought it was Naruto. "Naruto emerged from the shadows, mask removed, his expression unreadable.

"You disappeared," Mei observed, suspicion flickering in her eyes.

"I was ensuring our escape," he replied calmly.

Ao eyed him critically. "Convenient timing."

Naruto met his gaze. "Believe what you will. The fact remains—we're safe, for now."

The older man from earlier stepped forward. "I saw you fighting. You saved many of us."

Murmurs of agreement spread through the group.

Naruto took a deep breath. "I understand that trust isn't easily given, especially in times like these. But I ask you once more—come with me. Let me lead you to a place where we can rebuild, where we can be free from persecution."

Silence hung heavy as the rebels considered his words.

Finally, the young woman who had spoken earlier stepped forward. "I will go with you."

One by one, others voiced their agreement.

The older man sighed heavily. "Very well. I will place my trust in you."

Mei exchanged a glance with Ao before stepping forward. "We all will."

Ao hesitated before nodding reluctantly. "But if you lead us astray..."

"You have my word," Naruto assured them. "Now, we must move quickly. There are still spies among us, and it's only a matter of time before they relay our location."

Eyes widened as people looked around warily.

"I will identify them," Naruto continued. "But for now, we need to put distance between us and Yagura's forces."

Mei took charge. "Everyone, prepare to move out. Follow Naruto's lead."

As they began their journey, Ao approached Naruto. "How do you plan to build this new settlement? We lack resources, support, protection."

Naruto glanced at him. "I've been preparing for this for a long time. I have allies, resources, and plans in motion. The system will have to acknowledge us— I demands it, so."

"You're placing a lot of faith in a name," Ao remarked.

"It's more than a name," Naruto replied. "It's a legacy of old as old the elemental nation itself. The other nations remember Uzushiogakure—they know the cost of underestimating us."

Ao considered his words. "Even so, you're no Hashirama Senju. Building a village isn't just about strength."

"I know," Naruto said quietly. "But every great endeavor starts with a single step."

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Days turned into weeks as the group traversed treacherous waters and unforgiving terrain, all the while evading Yagura's relentless pursuers. The journey was gruelling storms battered their ships, and the dense forests tested their endurance. Yet, Naruto remained steadfast, his leadership a beacon guiding them through adversity.

True to his word, Naruto began the meticulous process of identifying spies within their ranks. On the ship, he along with his clones held one-on-one conversations with each person, his piercing azure eyes seeming to see through any façade. It was as if he possessed an innate ability to detect falsehoods, a skill honed through years of experience and perhaps something more.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea, Naruto stood on the deck with Mei and Ao.

"You're isolating individuals for private talks," Ao observed cautiously. "What's your purpose?"

Naruto's gaze remained fixed on the horizon. "To ensure the safety of everyone on board. There are those among us who would see our efforts undone."

Mei's eyes narrowed slightly. "You believe there are spies here?"

He turned to face them. "I don't just believe it—I know it. Information about our movements has been too precise. I intend to root them out."

Ao crossed his arms. "And how will you handle them?"

"Some directly who I can prove and who doesn't have loved once, others Discreetly," Naruto replied, his tone leaving no room for debate.

Over the next five days, Naruto continued his interviews. Some conversations were brief, others lengthy. Word spread among the refugees, causing a mix of anxiety and relief. Those with nothing to hide welcomed the scrutiny, others grew increasingly uneasy.

Meanwhile, Mei and Ao took the opportunity to gather the remaining pockets of bloodline users and clans who had been in hiding throughout the Land of Water. Messages were sent, and despite initial reluctance, many chose to join upon learning that the core of rebel force was laying down arms and fleeing. Some had been hesitant participants in the rebellion, offering resources but never fully committing. Now, faced with the prospect of isolation and vulnerability, they saw little choice but to follow.

Within twenty days, a remarkable assembly of fifteen thousand people had gathered on a small island—a temporary haven before the next leg of their journey. The island buzzed with activity as families reunited, and plans were made for the future.

Even Naruto was shocked with this number, So many bloodline users though many were non bloodline user married to one and many children and old men. Recognizing the enormity of the task ahead, called already called upon Karin and Kanna—trusted allies adept at sensory and analytical abilities. Together, they expedited the process of vetting the newcomers, ensuring that spies did not infiltrate their midst.

One afternoon, Naruto convened a meeting with Mei, Ao, Karin, and Kanna in a secluded grove on the island.

"I've devised a system to categorize our people based on trustworthiness," Naruto began, spreading out a parchment detailing his plan. "It's essential for our security and the success of our mission."

Mei studied the parchment. "Four standards?"

He nodded. "Yes. First is the Platinum Standard—individuals who can be trusted implicitly. They are fanatically loyal to our cause or to me personally, often because we've saved them or their loved ones or they believe in me or my vision. They will be sent directly to Uzu."

Ao raised an eyebrow. "Uzu? You mean Uzushiogakure? But you said..."

Naruto's eyes held a mysterious glint. "All will be revealed in time."

"Very well," Mei conceded. "And the others?"

"The Gold Standard includes trusted allies like you two," he continued. "People who are loyal and have proven themselves but may not be privy to our deepest secrets yet."

Karin chimed in. "The Silver Standard comprises good people who are generally loyal but whom we wouldn't entrust with our most sensitive information."

"Then there's the Bronze Standard," Naruto said, his tone serious. "These individuals are decent but may sway with circumstances. They're not bad people, but we can't rely on them completely, they keep them self above the cause, selfish."

Ao frowned. "And the fourth?"

Naruto's expression hardened. "The Black Standard—spies or those who intend to betray us. They will be dealt with accordingly."

A heavy silence followed his words.

Mei exchanged a glance with Ao before asking, "What do you intend to do with them?"

Naruto met her gaze steadily. "Those without attachments will be eliminated publically. Those with families will be handled with consideration for their loved ones but cannot be allowed to jeopardize our mission."

Ao shifted uncomfortably. "That's...."

Mei sighed softly. "I understand. We can't afford any risks."

Over the next few days, the classifications were implemented. Platinum individuals were quietly escorted to awaiting ships, unaware of their true destination but trusting in Naruto's promise of a safe haven. Gold and Silver Standards were grouped separately, given specific roles, and kept informed on a need-to-know basis and sent to a different base in Swamp.

The Bronze group was assigned tasks that kept them slightly distanced from critical operations. They were sent to the Land of Demons, where provisions had been arranged, and they could contribute without posing a significant risk.

As for the Black Standard individuals, Naruto handled each case. Under the cover of night, he confronted them, offering a chance at redemption if possible. Some showed remorse and were reclassified; others remained defiant or plan to betray them in future.

In one such encounter, Naruto faced a man named Ryuji, who had been passing information to Yagura's forces.

"I know what you've been doing," Naruto stated calmly, the moonlight casting shadows across his face.

Ryuji's eyes darted nervously. "I don't know what you mean."

"Don't lie," Naruto's voice hardened. "I've given you opportunities to come clean. This is your last chance."

Ryuji hesitated before desperation overtook him. He lunged, drawing a concealed kunai. Naruto sidestepped effortlessly, delivering a swift strike to a pressure point that rendered Ryuji unconscious.

Karin stepped forward from the shadows. "What will you do with him?"

Naruto's expression was unreadable. "He made his choice."

By dawn, the camp was none the wiser about Ryuji's fate.

As the days progressed, Mei and Ao marvelled at the efficiency of Naruto's operations. Yet, the weight of his decisions was not lost on them.

One evening, Mei approached Naruto as he stood overlooking the sea.

"You're carrying a heavy burden," she observed gently.

He didn't turn. "It's necessary."

"Perhaps, but you don't have to bear it alone," she offered.

He glanced at he. "Thank you, but some responsibilities are mine alone."

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The flotilla set sail toward the Shimo Islands, where Naruto's people awaited. The journey was fraught with tension, but also with a growing sense of hope. The Platinum group, though unaware of their destination, felt a newfound purpose. The Gold and Silver groups began forming bonds, training together under the guidance of Mei and Ao.

Upon arrival at the Shimo Islands, they were met by a well-organized contingent of Naruto's allies. Supplies were abundant, and temporary shelters had been erected.

"Welcome," a woman with striking red hair greeted them warmly. "I'm Pakura as many of you know me, part of Lord Naruto vision."

Mei observed the efficient setup. "You've been preparing for this."

Pakura smiled. "For quite some time."

As the new arrivals settled in, Naruto gathered the leaders for a briefing.

"From here, we'll proceed in stages," he explained. "The Platinum group will continue to Uzu. The Gold and Silver groups will head to our Swamp where we control the regime for further training and integration."

Ao leaned forward. "And the Bronze group?"

"They are safe in the Land of Demons," Naruto assured him. "They'll be valuable allies in time."

Mei regarded him thoughtfully. "You've thought of everything."

"I've tried," he admitted."

"Such as gaining recognition from the other nations," Ao pointed out.

"Not exactly," Naruto agreed. "They will not know of our existence till they no longer can deny us."

Over the following weeks, training intensified. Naruto shared advanced techniques, focusing on unity and harnessing their unique abilities. Bonds and trust grew stronger.

One night, around a communal fire, stories were shared. Laughter mingled with poignant memories. Naruto played a soothing melody on a flute, the notes carrying over the gentle waves.

Later Mei sat beside Naruto. "You've given them more than a safe haven—you've given them hope."

He gazed into the flames. "Hope is the foundation upon which we'll build the future."

She smiled softly. "And what of your hope? What drives you?"

He met her eyes, sincerity reflecting in his own. "To return to the forest".

What? Mei asked not know what the context was.

Naruto smiled nothing.

She raised her cup. "To new beginnings."

He clinked his cup against hers. "To new beginnings."

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Finally, they arrived at a secluded valley, surrounded by natural barriers and abundant resources. The sight took everyone's breath away.

"This... this is incredible," Mei murmured.

Naruto smiled faintly. "Welcome to your new home."

As the rebels began to explore the area, hope blossomed. Conversations buzzed with excitement and plans for the future.

Ao approached Naruto, a hint of admiration in his gaze. "I have to admit, you've exceeded my expectations."

"Thank you," Naruto replied. "But this is just the beginning. There's much work to be done."

Mei joined them. "We can start by establishing defenses and shelters. With everyone working together, we'll make this place flourish."

Naruto nodded. "I agree. And as promised, I'll share the full details of my plans."

He gathered the leaders and began outlining his strategies for gaining recognition, establishing trade, and securing alliances.

Mei listened intently. "You've thought of everything."

"I've tried," he said modestly. "But we'll need everyone's efforts to make it a reality."

Ao placed a hand on his shoulder. "You have them."

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Stay tuned for the next chapter of NTLHOS.

Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Chapter 73: Glimpse of the Kami no Shinobi

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Author's Note:

Dear readers, 📝✨

As I kick off the second volume of this series and embrace the energy of the New Year 🎉, I realized I didn't post here. On my paid site i sarted posting from 6th. But fear not, I'm back! 💪 The new schedule is Wednesday and Sunday📅, and if possible, I'll even have fixed posting time. That's for another day, though. For now, I'll be posting today, tomorrow, and Wednesday to compensate for the two extra chapters I shared on the paid site. 🔥🔥

I think the second book I'm working on is shaping up amazingly. While the start wasn't my favorite 😅, it's beginning to take a form I'm proud of. Once again, thank you for sticking with me through this journey. 💖 Your enthusiasm and support keep me going, even during the most exhausting moments. 🙏✨

Until then, happy reading! 🌟📖😊

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"The strength of a leader is not in their power alone but in their ability to rise above weakness and safeguard hope for tomorrow."

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Last time on NTLHOS:

A shadowy figure stepped forward. "He has become a significant obstacle." Orochimaru's eyes gleamed with sinister intent.

"Then it's time we reminded him why snakes are not to be trifled with."

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Now:

The crackling of the small campfire was the only sound in the stillness of the forest. Naruto sat cross-legged under the canopy of a gnarled pine tree, his sharp eyes scanning the scroll in his hands. The flame's flicker cast shifting shadows over his face, but his expression remained unreadable, his attention locked on the words before him.

The headline at the top was unmistakable, written in bold characters that seemed to radiate gravity:

"Hiruzen Sarutobi's Unprecedented Battle at Kumo's Borders."

Naruto's fingers tightened imperceptibly around the scroll. He exhaled deeply, steadying himself before delving into the account. He knew the Third Hokage was powerful—he had been on the receiving end of that power, after all—but what could have happened to warrant such a dramatic title?

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Reports detailed a monumental battle between Hiruzen Sarutobi and the forces of Kumogakure. The very idea of the old man taking the battlefield personally was almost unfathomable. For decades, the Third had stood as a symbol of peace and diplomacy. Yet, here he was—facing not only the Raikage but also the Eight-Tails jinchūriki, Killer Bee.

The scroll painted a vivid picture of Hiruzen's unmatched prowess. When the Eight-Tails had fully manifested, the Third had shown why he was still called the God of Shinobi. Five shadow clones, each wielding mastery over one of the elemental natures, had moved like extensions of his will. Together, they performed a symphony of techniques that few could even imagine. He combined SS rank jutsu like children mixing water and lighting.

"Elemental Annihilation"—a technique that merged Fire and Wind into a blazing hurricane, Water and Lightning into a torrent of electrified rain, and Earth as stabilizing pillars erupting from the ground—was said to have shaken the whole lands themselves. Witnesses claimed that the Eight-Tails staggered under the onslaught, its colossal form visibly damaged despite its regenerative capabilities.

But the Eight-Tails was notorious for its regenerative abilities. Each wound inflicted seemed to heal almost instantaneously. Realizing this, Lord Third unveiled a jutsu that had not been seen in decades—so rare that few alive could claim to have witnessed it. A technique said to drain even Hiruzen's immense chakra reserves to the brink. But it was his trump card, the "Forge of Destruction," that truly stole Naruto's breath. It had been used only once before, earning Hiruzen the moniker of the "Second Coming of the God of Shinobi."

The jutsu involved Hiruzen's five clones converging to compress their elemental chakra into a single, dense sphere of pure energy. Before the elemental chakra could fully manifest in its individual forms, it was combined within the so-called forge. The resulting pebble-sized orb defied understanding—some claimed it lacked any elemental nature, while others speculated it contained all five natures fused in perfect harmony. What was certain, however, was that it was raw power incarnate.

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Naruto paused, lowering the scroll slightly. His mind raced to process the sheer magnitude of such power. A technique that combined all five elements into pure energy? It sounded impossible—no, it sounded beyond impossible. Yet, if anyone could pull it off, it was Hiruzen Sarutobi.

He continued reading.

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While the Third clashed with the Eight-Tails and the Raikage initially, the Raikage was eventually drawn away and kept at bay by an unexpected trio: Uchiha Fugaku, Shisui Uchiha, and Danzo Shimura. The coordination between the three was described as masterful. Fugaku, wielding the Sharingan, countered the Raikage's blindingly fast taijutsu with precision, erecting walls of fire that forced him into defensive positions. Shisui's famed Teleportation Technique kept him in constant motion, allowing him to stay in close quarters, delivering swift, disruptive strikes while weaving occasional genjutsu that disoriented the Raikage. Meanwhile, Danzo's Wind Release: Vacuum tore through the battlefield, creating cutting gusts that confined the Raikage's movements and provided cover for his allies, the battlefield strategically limiting the Raikage's armour.

Despite their efforts, it was the Third Hokage who decisively turned the tide of the battle. When the Forge of Destructiondetonated, its raw, incomprehensible power obliterated several of the Eight-Tails' massive tentacles. The sheer force of the jutsu forced the beast to revert back into its jinchūriki form. The attack was not just destruction—it was a deconstruction of everything it touched. Objects caught in its path were broken down into their elemental constituents, while in the mid-zone, the energy was further dispersed into its five elemental natures, radiating outwards in all directions like a starburst of pure elemental chaos.

As the battlefield trembled in the aftermath, Hiruzen fell to one knee, visibly drained from the monumental exertion. Summoning his remaining strength, he unsealed a thin staff—Adamantine—and with precise, calculated force, hurled it at the unconscious jinchūriki. The staff pierced Killer Bee's right shoulder, pinning him firmly to the ground like a spear of divine judgment.

The Raikage, sensing his brother's dire peril, erupted in a furious burst of chakra. Shattering the trio's barricade with unrestrained rage, he charged toward the fallen Killer Bee. But before he could reach his brother, he was intercepted by Monkey King Enma in his true form, the colossal creature standing as an immovable wall of defense between the Raikage and his target.

Enma's Adamantine Prison Wall erected an impenetrable barrier around the almost unconscious Hokage, shielding him from the Raikage's furious assault. Left with no choice, the Raikage retreated, carrying his injured brother with him.

The next day, as the dawn broke over the ravaged battlefield, Hiruzen Sarutobi regained consciousness, his aged body still weary from the monumental effort of the previous day. The sight of the Third Hokage rising brought renewed morale to the Konoha forces, who had held their positions throughout the night despite their leader's exhaustion. By his side stood Jiraiya of the Sannin, his imposing presence a clear statement to both allies and enemies: the might of Konoha had not diminished. Together, the two legends approached the negotiation table with a quiet but unyielding determination, their very presence commanding respect.

Faced with the combined might of Hiruzen and Jiraiya—and the absence of Iwagakure's support—the Raikage found himself cornered. Iwa's decision to remain uninvolved had tipped the scales irrevocably. Without Onoki, one of the few capable of challenging Hiruzen directly, Kumo's position crumbled under the weight of Konoha's tactical and military superiority. Reluctantly, the Raikage was forced to sign a peace treaty, a document that not only ended hostilities but required an official apology from Kumo for its provocations. It was a bitter pill for the Raikage to swallow, but with Killer Bee injured and Kumo's forces severely depleted, he had little choice. The treaty stood as a stark reminder to the world that while Konoha might preach peace, it was still capable of unparalleled strength when provoked.

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Naruto rolled up the scroll slowly, letting its weight settle in his lap. His thoughts swirled like a maelstrom. The Third Hokage had stood against one of the strongest jinchūriki and the Raikage and forced the Raikage himself to retreat. More than that, he had done so while coordinating his forces against odds.

"Third Hokage… for all my disagreements with you… you truly are something else," Naruto murmured, his voice barely audible over the crackling fire.

Leaning back against the tree, he stared up at the canopy. His mind wandered to the implications of such a battle. The world was shifting, teetering on the brink of chaos. If the Third Hokage could unleash such power, Naruto knew he had to tread carefully.

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He rose to his feet, tucking the scroll into his pack. With a single hand seal, he released a Water Release: Drizzle Technique (Suiton: Amayadori no Jutsu), extinguishing the campfire in a light spray. Darkness enveloped the clearing as he adjusted his cloak and turned toward the path ahead.

"Time to keep moving," he muttered.

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The journey from the Land of Demons was fraught with exhaustion, but Naruto's resolve remained unbroken. He had just completed a task that would leave a mark on the history of the region—a sealing ritual that not only bound an ancient, malevolent entity but transformed the very temple that held it into a beacon of purity and power.

The request had come from Priestess Miroku herself, the guardian of the temple. Her faith in Naruto had been unwavering, even when many of her attendants remained skeptical of entrusting such a sacred duty to an outsider. There was one month left before the old seal would fail—a precarious window in which the beast's influence grew stronger. Some among the temple's residents, corrupted by whispers of the entity, had attempted to sabotage the ritual, hoping to break the seal and unleash the beast for their own gain.

Naruto handled the resistance with ease. His years of experience navigating the schemes of men and beasts alike served him well as he incapacitated the rebels with minimal force. "The real fight," he had said to Miroku with a small smile, "isn't against them—it's against what they've let control their hearts."

With the area secured, Naruto set to work preparing the temple. He carefully inspected every seal, noting the points of weakness. This wasn't just about brute force or chakra; it was a delicate art that required precision and reverence. He invoked the ancient traditions of the Uzumaki Clan, taught to him by the old man in the forest—a method that intertwined sealing with ninshū, the spiritual connection that transcended ordinary chakra use.

When the day of the sealing arrived, Naruto stood before the temple clad in traditional ceremonial attire with bare chest and thick beaded mala in his shoulder. It was a striking departure from his usual appearance. The long robes bore the Uzumaki clan's spiral sigil, and his face was painted with intricate patterns of red and white. He moved with purpose, each step calculated as if guided by an unseen hand.

The Binder Mask, the relic of his clan, rested in his hands. It was a tool not just for battle but for binding spirits of unimaginable power to a greater purpose. As he donned the mask, a shift in the air was palpable. Even those who had no sensory abilities felt it—a wave of energy so profound that it made them bow instinctively.

Naruto began by purifying the temple grounds. Using a combination of seals and hand signs, he created a massive sealing array around the central chamber where the entity was bound. The symbols glowed with a radiant, golden light, growing brighter as he infused them with chakra.

Then, the Binder Mask activated. From it emerged a spectral figure—an ethereal representation of the binder spirit. Its presence was vast and otherworldly, and yet, there was a strange serenity about it. Naruto directed the spirit with unwavering confidence, guiding it toward the chamber where the entity raged against its constraints.

With careful precision, Naruto used the Binder Mask to draw the entity into submission. Its roars shook the ground, but the spirit of the Binder overpowered it, wrapping the beast in chains of pure, radiant energy. "You will serve a greater purpose now," Naruto said, his voice calm but resolute.

Rather than simply imprisoning the entity, Naruto did something unprecedented. Channeling the lessons taught to him by the Sage, he purified the beast's energy, transforming it into a perpetual source of power for the temple. The malice that had once corrupted the land was converted into a force of healing and purification.

The temple itself became a sacred ground unlike any other. Visitors who entered its halls felt their burdens lifted and their spirits cleansed. The purification energy radiating from the temple seemed to touch everyone within its vicinity, instilling a profound sense of peace and elevation.

When the ritual was complete, Naruto removed the Binder Mask and stepped back, his robes shimmering faintly in the residual light of the sealing. For a moment, the air was still, as if the world itself had paused to acknowledge what had just occurred.

Then, slowly, the people around him knelt. Not just the priestesses but every onlooker—those who had doubted, those who had resisted, and those who had come simply to witness. Even those without sensory abilities could feel the divine nature of what had transpired. Sensors, however, were left utterly speechless. To them, Naruto's presence was overwhelming, akin to standing in the presence of a god.

Miroku approached him, her hands clasped in reverence. "Lord Uzumaki," she said, her voice trembling. "You have not just saved this land—you've sanctified it. The people of the Land of Demons will never forget this day."

Naruto, ever humble, shook his head. "I'm no god, Priestess. Just a man doing his part. The power you feel—it's yours now. Use it to protect your people and elevate them."

But the people of the Land of Demons had already made up their minds. From that day forward, Naruto Uzumaki was revered as a divine figure, his name spoken with awe and gratitude. And though he left the land shortly after, his presence lingered, woven into the very fabric of the temple and its people.

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Hiruzen Sarutobi sat in his chamber of his mansion, the air thick with the unspoken truths of their meeting. The elders of Konoha surrounded him. Their faces bore the marks of age, wisdom, and the scars of countless battles, but it was Hiruzen who carried the heaviest burden.

From his seat, Hiruzen's gaze wandered to the window. The village he had given his life to protect stretched out before him, bathed in the pale light of the moon. Yet his eyes drifted downward, to his own hands. He clenched and unclenched them slowly, feeling the ache in his joints and the stiffness that no amount of chakra enhancement could fully mask.

"I have grown old indeed," he murmured, his voice soft but heavy. His hands clenched into fists, then relaxed again. "Even with enhancements, I am not in my prime. Using the Forge of Destruction... I could only manage one. And even then, it was far from the mark."

Alaruya, the ever-practical elder, waved a hand dismissively. "So what? You couldn't perform it as you used to, but we still won the battle. Kumo retreated. That's all that matters."

Hiruzen's expression remained stoic, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—regret, perhaps, or frustration. "You don't understand," he said quietly. "I used that jutsu only after years of perfecting it. I've unleashed it only three times in my life. The first was against sensei."

He paused, the weight of memory pressing against him. "Back then, it wasn't as refined or as powerful as it is now. Yet even then, the Sensei countered it with a technique I'd never seen before, I don't even know what it was. He neutralized it entirely. The second time was during the Five Kage War."

The room grew silent, the elders listening intently as Hiruzen continued. "I used it against the other Kage in a desperate attempt to turn the tide. It was only thanks to the efforts of the previous Raikage and Ōnoki that they survived. And now, this third time... If I were in my prime, it would have been enough. The Eight-Tails would have died at the lest and the Raikage would not have walked away unscathed. He would have been mortally wounded."

Sukino snorted softly, leaning forward with a sharp look in her eyes. "Don't start moping, Saru. You've never been one to wallow. Find a way forward."

Hiruzen gave her a faint smile, but his expression quickly hardened again. "This isn't about moping, Sukino. It's about acknowledging reality. If we're to protect Konoha, we need more than just strategy. We need strength. And I..." He trailed off, looking at his hands again.

It was Danzo who broke the silence, his tone as cold and calculated as ever yet there was hint of hesitation. "I may have a solution."

Hiruzen's eyes turned to him, narrowing slightly. "I know you, Danzo. There's always a catch. What are you proposing?"

Danzo didn't flinch, his visible eye meeting Hiruzen's gaze with unwavering confidence. "There is a plasma solution. A synthesis created from the cells of the First Hokage and the father of the patient that is your father's— Lord Sasuke Sarutobi. It's not a miracle, but it can regenerate your vitality, perhaps restore a few decades of mobility and stamina. You wouldn't gain any of the Senju abilities, but it would give you the energy and strength you've lost without any draw back."

The other elders exchanged glances. Koharu's brow furrowed. "A treatment like that... it sounds dangerous. What's the price, Danzo?"

Danzo's lips curved into the faintest smirk. "There is 'no' catch... per se. Only people with extremely high chakra can undergo the treatment and its very painful. The solution can only be used once. It will reverse your aging to a certain point—wherever the vitality solution stabilizes. From there, you will begin to age again, but at a rate appropriate to your restored vitality. It's not eternal youth, Hiruzen. Just a second chance."

Hiruzen studied Danzo for a long moment, his eyes sharp, piercing through the man's carefully constructed composure. "And you? I know you've used something similar before. How do I know this isn't some scheme of yours to claim power in the long run?"

Danzo chuckled, a low, humourless sound. "Believe me, Hiruzen, if I wanted power, I wouldn't need schemes at this point. You're the one sitting in that chair, doubting your ability to hold it. This is a pragmatic solution. Take it or don't—but don't waste time questioning motives when Konoha hangs by a thread."

The room fell into a tense silence. Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled as he considered the proposition. He glanced at Sukino, who gave him a sharp nod. Koharu and Homura exchanged worried looks but said nothing.

Finally, Hiruzen sighed. "I'll think about it. But make no mistake, Danzo—I will not allow this village to be compromised, even for the sake of my own strength."

Danzo bowed slightly, a mockery of deference. "As you wish, Hokage-sama. The choice is yours. Just remember... Konoha's enemies will not wait for you to regain your strength."

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Stay tuned for the next chapter of NTLHOS.

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