Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Chapter 29: Return to the Leaf

Author's Note: 

Writing this chapter was more of a filler. Bringing Naruto back home after such a harrowing experience allowed me to delve deep into his sense of belonging and the bonds he shares with his comrades, which I intend to conflict soon enough. Please let me know if this is boring you or causing you to lose interest in the story. I hope you feel the warmth and anticipation of his return as much as I did. Enjoy the chapter!

Join ThirdFireTriden on Pa(tre) on !

Chapter 30: Political Crossroads is OUT!

Chapter 31: A Fitting Punishment IS OUT!

Chapter 32: Embracing Change IS OUT!

Chapter 33- Monster of a Sensei IS OUT!

Chapter 34: "The Uchiha and the Tower" IS OUT!

Chapter 35: "Convergence of Fates" IS OUT!

Chapter 36: "The Metamorphosis" IS OUT!

Chapter 37: "Formation of the Outcasts" IS OUT!

Chapter 38: Web of Influence IS OUT!

Chapter 39: Power Shifts and Rising Storms IS OUT!

"Home is not where you live but where they understand you." – Christian Morgenstern

Happy reading!

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Last time on Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm:

Every step felt heavier, his body crying out in pain. The trees blurred together, and the ground seemed to shift beneath him. Naruto stumbled, catching himself on a nearby tree. His breath came in ragged gasps, blood still trickling from his wounds. He could hear the voices of the border patrol getting closer, their footsteps pounding against the forest floor. Darkness edged his vision, but he kept moving, driven by sheer willpower.

Finally, as his strength gave out, Naruto collapsed to the ground. The last thing he saw before unconsciousness claimed him was the silhouettes of the border patrol rushing towards him.

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NOW

Naruto's eyelids fluttered open, his vision hazy and unfocused. The first thing he saw was a silhouette of black hair, a figure standing at his bedside. As his vision cleared, he recognized the familiar face of Shisui, his mentor and friend. A wave of relief washed over him, mixed with a surge of gratitude.

"So, I made it out alive," Naruto croaked, his voice barely above a whisper. "Last time I checked, I had four broken ribs, a punctured lung... God knows what else."

Shisui chuckled, the sound light and reassuring, a beacon of familiarity in the sea of uncertainty. "You were lucky. Lady Tsunade and her apprentice were on their way to the Land of Noodles. Her apprentice healed you as good as new."

Naruto's eyes widened in shock, his heart skipping a beat. "Lady Tsunade is here? One of the Densetsu no Sannin?"

Shisui nodded, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "I said she passed through here. We brought you back to the camp yesterday. Due to the commotion of your fight, she halted at one of the border patrol bases since she didn't want to be part of any international issue. And as your luck would have it, when I retrieved you to the base, her apprentice was there to heal you."

Naruto's face fell, disappointment evident. "Oh. I guess I won't be able to meet the legendary figure."

Shisui placed a comforting hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Meeting her is secondary. The important thing is you're alive and on the road to recovery. You did well, Naruto. Better than any of us could have hoped for."

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Meanwhile, Shisui's thoughts drifted back to the events leading up to Naruto's rescue. Naruto's mission was nearing completion. Shisui, along with Team Agis, had been patrolling the border of the Land of Fire and the Land of Noodles as that was his and Naruto's initial plan of escape from the Mist. He didn't know if Naruto was alive or dead. For the past fifteen days, Shisui and his team had been stationed there, hope slowly dwindling with each passing day. Then it happened—Naruto reactivated his ANBU tattoo.

When an ANBU operative goes undercover, the tattoo is frozen, put into hibernation, and becomes inert and invisible to the naked eye or dojutsu. Naruto's reactivation of the tattoo brought immense relief to Shisui, but also a surge of fear when he received a distress signal and a request for a medic, indicating Naruto was in critical condition. Shisui mobilized his team and the nearby camp for an immediate retrieval mission, anticipating a possible hostile confrontation.

As they moved toward the explosive zone, accompanied by some of the border patrol cadets, they saw a battered and wounded shinobi, covered in blood from head to toe, limping towards them. The unmistakable red hair stood out even amidst the blood. It was Naruto. Shisui's heart clenched at the sight, a mixture of fear and determination coursing through him.

"Naruto!" Shisui shouted, rushing forward with his team close behind. Naruto's steps faltered, and he collapsed just as they reached him. Shisui caught him, feeling the weight of Naruto's body, heavy with exhaustion and injury. Kunai wounds bled profusely, and his breath was shallow and labored. Shisui could hardly bear the sight, but he had to act quickly.

"Anko, now!" Shisui ordered, his voice steady despite the panic threatening to overtake him.

Anko summoned a snake, its long body coiling around Naruto to lift him gently. They moved swiftly back to the camp, urgency driving their every step. Shisui's mind raced with worry. The field medics might not be enough to save him, but Lady Tsunade...

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Shisui, shaken from his musings, asked, "How were the last five months without me after I was ordered back a month early since our cover was blown?"

Naruto sighed, a mixture of exhaustion and relief on his face. "It's a long story, and some of the details are need-to-know basis from the orders I received." He began to recount his experiences in the war, his voice steady but tinged with the weight of his memories.

As Naruto spoke, Shisui couldn't help but feel amazed. This mission sounded like something out of a fantasy tale. Despite the shinobi code to remain under the radar during undercover missions, Naruto had acted above and beyond his duty. Facing a fully realized jinchūriki at the age of twelve was insane. The missions he undertook, the battles he fought alongside and against notable figures, were now recounted with the clarity of hard-earned experience.

Shisui realized that Naruto had leapt from a low jonin level to bordering on high jonin to low elite jonin level in just five months. It was absurd. No wonder the Uchiha clan considered the Uzumaki clan worthy rivals, right up there with the Senju. Only those two clans had children of twelve or thirteen with chakra levels rivaling elite jonin, bordering on S-rank.

What struck Shisui the most was Naruto's resilience. He had heard the old lore of the Uzumaki, Senju, and Uchiha being the descendants of the great sage, and how these clans thrived in battle. It was said that if a child from these clans survived the brutal pre-teen to mid-teen years, they became truly formidable. This was a point of contention within the Uchiha clan—their confinement to the village was dulling their edge, producing weaker shinobi with each generation. But if that were true, where was the Senju clan, who had gone all out in the war?

As Naruto continued his tale, Shisui felt a deep sense of admiration and pride for the boy who had faced such incredible odds and emerged stronger for it. Shisui realized that Naruto was not just surviving; he was thriving in war. He estimated from what Naruto said that he was now overall at high jonin to low elite jonin level.

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Meanwhile, Naruto was happy to reunite with his old team. The ever fun-loving Anko, now in her snake mask, brought a sense of familiarity and comfort. There was also the jovial Shinku Akimichi (Bear), always cheerful and talking about his love for food. The witty Unagi Kurama (Dolphin) added a touch of humor to the group, while the calm and composed Tsukino Rayuma (Panther) brought a reassuring presence. These were the people with whom he had sweated and bled, comrades he trusted with his life.

However, Naruto's mind was conflicted. He had also formed bonds with many rebels from the Mist, sharing struggles and victories. How could abandoning them be justified? He didn't know. Team Agis felt like a lifetime ago, a memory from a past life, yet seeing them again filled him with a mix of nostalgia and uncertainty.

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The next morning, Naruto, along with Team Agis, handed over their duties and began their journey back to the Leaf Village. The early morning sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, illuminating the path ahead. The air was crisp and filled with the scents of pine and earth, a stark contrast to the dense mist and oppressive atmosphere of the Land of Water.

As they traveled, Naruto felt a surge of excitement and nostalgia. The thought of seeing familiar faces filled him with anticipation. He looked forward to reuniting with people like Kosuke, Mizuki, Iwashi-sensei, Hayate, and the other members of the Hokage Guard Platoon. There was also Guy, with his boundless energy, and Nono-sensei, whose medical skills and care had always been a guiding light for him. Each name brought back memories of camaraderie and growth, making the journey back feel like a homecoming he had long awaited.

Naruto glanced over at Anko, who was in her snake mask, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Anko, it's been too long. How have things been in the village?"

Anko laughed, her voice filled with the same playful energy Naruto remembered. "Oh, you know, same old, same old. Scaring the academy students, eating dango, and making sure no one gets too comfortable. What about you, kid? Heard you had quite the adventure."

Naruto nodded, a serious expression crossing his face. "It was tough, Anko. Made some friends, lost some. Learned a lot, though. And fought a lot."

Anko's playful demeanor softened for a moment. "I heard war does that to you. But you're here, and that's what matters. You'll always have a place in the village, Naruto."

As they continued their journey, the scenery changed from dense forests to the familiar surroundings of the Land of Fire. Rolling hills and lush greenery welcomed them back, the landscape dotted with vibrant wildflowers and the occasional stream shimmering under the sun. The air was filled with the sound of birds chirping and the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze, creating a sense of tranquility that had been absent for so long.

Approaching the village, they avoided the main gates, slipping through the ANBU checkpoint unnoticed. This secretive route, known only to select operatives, allowed them to enter Konoha without drawing attention. The village sprawled out before them, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering trees and the majestic Hokage Mountain.

Naruto paused for a moment, taking in the sight from the top of the hill. The faces of past Hokage carved into the mountain stood as sentinels, watching over the village. The streets below bustled with activity, the sounds of vendors calling out their wares, children laughing, and the general hum of daily life filled the air. The village was alive with energy, a stark contrast to the tense and silent nights he had spent in enemy territory. The lively and vibrant scene before him was a reminder of the peace and stability he fought for, which was in stark contrast to the oppressive mist and the grim, harsh conditions of the rebel camps. The lush greenery and the familiar warmth of Konoha filled him with a sense of belonging and hope, a far cry from the cold, damp surroundings of the Land of Water and the constant tension of war.

The view from Hokage Mountain was breathtaking. The village's architecture, a blend of traditional and modern designs, created a harmonious landscape. The red rooftops of the buildings, interspersed with green spaces and training grounds, painted a picture of a thriving, peaceful community. The Hokage Tower stood tall and proud in the center, a symbol of strength and leadership. From this vantage point, Naruto could see the entire village—its winding streets, bustling marketplaces, and the training grounds where he had spent countless hours honing his skills.

"Home sweet home," Anko murmured beside him, a rare moment of solemnity in her voice. "No matter where we go or what we face, this is what we're fighting for."

Naruto nodded, his heart swelling with warmth. "Yeah, this is what we're fighting for."

As they made their way through the village, Naruto couldn't help but smile at the familiar sights and sounds. Children ran past them, laughing and playing ninja, while vendors sold their goods with cheerful shouts. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the savory scent of ramen wafted through the air, making Naruto's stomach growl.

Anko glanced at him with a smirk. "Hungry already? We just got back."

Naruto grinned. "Can't help it. It's been a while since I've had a decent bowl of ramen."

Finally, they arrived at the Hokage Tower, the heart of the village. The tower, with its iconic red roof and large windows, stood as a beacon of hope and strength. The surrounding courtyard was bustling with shinobi and villagers, each going about their daily routines. As they entered, Naruto felt a wave of emotions wash over him—relief, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. The familiar corridors, the smell of paper and ink, the sight of busy ninja—all of it grounded him, reminding him of what he was fighting for.

Inside, the atmosphere was a mix of urgency and calm efficiency. Shinobi moved quickly, carrying reports and relaying messages, yet there was an underlying sense of peace and order. The walls were adorned with portraits of past Hokage, their stern faces a reminder of the legacy and responsibility that came with being a ninja of the Leaf Village.

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As Naruto stood in the main hall, he took a deep breath, savoring the moment. He was home, and he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that he had the support of his village and his friends. The familiar warmth of the Hokage Tower enveloped him, bringing a sense of comfort and security he had missed during his time in the Land of Water.

As he looked around, he was reminded of the fact that he had never met Lord Third one-on-one. The closest he had seen him was when he had fought Kisame and Zabuza, and later when the Hokage had spoken at the Daimyo's court regarding his promotion. The grandeur of the Hokage's office and the weight of its importance suddenly felt more real to him. This place was the heart of the village, where crucial decisions were made, and now, he was standing in its midst.

By the time he was brought to the base, news of Naruto's escape had already been sent to the highest echelons, and summons had been issued even before he had woken up from his treatment. The urgency and importance of his debriefing were clear. Every detail of his mission, every scrap of intelligence he had gathered, was crucial to the village.

Finally, they reached the large double doors of the Hokage's office. The guards stationed there gave Naruto and his team respectful nods. One of them knocked on the door and announced their arrival. The doors opened with a creak, revealing the spacious, well-lit office inside.

Naruto took a deep breath, his heart pounding as he stepped inside. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, sat behind a large wooden desk, surrounded by shelves filled with scrolls and books. His wise, weathered face broke into a warm smile as he looked up from his papers.

"Uzumaki Naruto," Hiruzen said, his voice commanding. "Welcome back. Come in."

As Naruto shifted his gaze to the other occupants of the room, he saw familiar and formidable faces. Lord Homura, whom he had seen during his reserve genin initiation test, stood with an air of authority. Beside him was Lady Koharu, identifiable by Shisui's detailed descriptions. The third figure sent a shiver down Naruto's spine—a bandaged man whose very presence exuded danger. Shisui had warned him about this individual, one of the most dangerous men in the elemental nations.

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Stay tuned for the next exciting episode of Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm!

Join ThirdFireTriden on Pa(tre) on !

Chapter 30: Political Crossroads is OUT!

Chapter 31: A Fitting Punishment IS OUT!

Chapter 32: Embracing Change IS OUT!

Chapter 33- Monster of a Sensei IS OUT!

Chapter 34: "The Uchiha and the Tower" IS OUT!

Chapter 35: "Convergence of Fates" IS OUT!

Chapter 36: "The Metamorphosis" IS OUT!

Chapter 37: "Formation of the Outcasts" IS OUT!

Chapter 38: Web of Influence IS OUT!

Chapter 39: Power Shifts and Rising Storms IS OUT!

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