NARUTO: The Saga of Crimson Monarch

The sun had barely risen over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the quiet village of Mura. Ares, standing at the edge of the village, adjusted the strap of his traveling pack and took a deep breath. It was time to leave. Though he had grown attached to this place and its people, his journey had to continue. He had a mission, a purpose beyond this small village. Yet, he couldn't shake the bittersweet weight in his chest.

As he prepared to take his first step, a noise behind him caught his attention. Turning around, Ares was stunned by what he saw. The villagers—all of them—had gathered in the streets. Men, women, children, even the elderly who could barely walk were there. Some carried baskets filled with food, while others held handmade trinkets and small gifts. Mr. Suzuki stood at the forefront, his wife and little Aiko by his side.

"Aresu-sama!" Mr. Suzuki called, his voice thick with emotion. "We couldn't let you leave without saying goodbye!"

Ares scratched the back of his head, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "You all didn't have to do this," he said, though his heart swelled with gratitude.

The village chief stepped forward, his weathered face streaked with tears. "Aresu-sama, you have done more for us than we could ever repay. You've healed our sick, fed our hungry, taught us to fish, farm, and build better lives. Because of you, Mura village has a future again. We are eternally grateful."

The villagers began to cheer, their voices ringing out in unison:

"ARIGATO, ARESU-SAMA!"

Overwhelmed, Ares could only smile. He waved his hand to the crowd. "Thank you, everyone, for taking care of me. I'll never forget this place or any of you."

But before he could turn to leave, little Aiko broke free from her parents and ran toward him. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she clung to his leg. "Aniki! Take care of yourself! I'll be waiting for you! Don't forget about me!" 😭

Ares froze, her heartfelt words causing his body to tremble slightly. He knelt down, hugging her tightly. "Aiko-chan, I promise I'll come back. You're my little sister, and I'll always love you. Stay strong, okay?"

As he stood, Mr. Suzuki and his wife joined in, wrapping their arms around him. One by one, the rest of the villagers followed, creating a massive group hug. Laughter mixed with tears as everyone shared in the heartfelt moment. It was a scene unlike anything Mura village had ever seen—a memory that would be spoken of for generations as the day the village came together to say farewell to their greatest benefactor.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Ares gently disentangled himself from the embrace. He took a few steps forward, turning to wave one last time. "Stay healthy, everyone! I'll see you all again in the future. Especially you, Aiko-chan!"

The villagers waved and cheered as Ares walked away, their voices fading into the distance.

As the path stretched before him, Ares felt a deep sense of fulfillment. He had made a difference here, not just through his powers but by teaching the people how to stand on their own. Yet, he also knew the road ahead would be full of challenges.

The Land of Fire awaited, and with it, the looming presence of Kaguya's arrival. Ares was determined not to interfere with the timeline, fearing the consequences it might have on the world's future and Uzumaki Naruto's destined journey. But he would continue to help others along the way, doing what he could without disturbing the grand design.

Ares' resolve hardened as he traveled, passing through small towns and villages, offering aid to the poor and needy. Each act of kindness, each life touched, added to his journey.

Though the villagers of mura village faded into the distance, their voices lingered in his heart. The bonds he had forged, the lessons he had taught, and the memories he carried would guide him forward. Aiko's tearful farewell echoed in his mind, a reminder of the promise he had made.

He would return someday. Until then, his journey continued.