Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm

Chapter 85: Epilogue 

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Author's Note:

Finally, we've reached the end of Volume One! 🎉 It has been an incredible journey crafting Naruto's story, blending politics, battles, and plots.

The first chapter of Book Two will be released this coming Sunday! 📖🔥 It will be posted as a new story, so be sure to check my profile since those only following this story might not get a notification.

Once again, thank you all for your unwavering support and love. 💖 Your comments, likes, and feedback have been the driving force behind this journey. I'd love to hear your thoughts on how the story has unfolded for you so far, whether through reactions, discussions, or just sharing your impressions.

Your engagement fuels my writing, and I can't wait to continue this adventure with you all! 🙏✨

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"The fruit derived from labor is the sweetest of pleasures.""—Luc de Clapiers, Marquis de Vauvenargues

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NTLHOS-2: Chapter 1: A New Era. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 2: Dark Coulds. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 3 – A monster from the past. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 4 – Drums and Gongs of War.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 5 – First Wave. IS OUT.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 6 – Price of Freedom.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 7 – Crimson Storm. 

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 8 – Retaliation.

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 9 – The Gathering Woods In The Pyre. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 10 – We Forgive, But We Never Forget. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 11 – The Dept Is Called. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 12- How Times have changed. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 13: A New Game Of Chess. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 14: The Power Of A Single Stroke Of A Pen. IS OUT!!!!!! (NEW)

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Happy Reading: 

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Last time on NTLHOS: 

A hush fell in the hall as an Uzushio herald stepped forward, preparing to announce the Emperor's approach. Sukino's grip on the invitation tightened. She knew they had not reached the end of their dance, it might only be the beginning of another match. But for now, I'll accept this seat.

Her gaze drifted to the dais, where Tsunade stood as Empress-to-be, awaiting Naruto's grand entrance. Sukino felt an odd flutter of anticipation. If we are to remain foes or form an alliance, let the next move be his. Whatever the outcome, she was, at least in his eyes, more than just another piece on this growing chessboard of lords and legends.

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Now:

As Naruto stepped toward the aisle where the grand throne stood, the ceremony began in earnest. Torchlight danced across the polished stone floor, while soft plumes of incense curled through the vast hall. At the center of this ritual space, fourteen robed Uzumaki priests aligned themselves in a crescent before the Emperor. Each priest wore the distinctive Uzumaki mask that marked their devotion to one of the fourteen deities—the fabled Mask Deities of Uzu though not used for the usual purose.

They began their hymns in measured cadence, their voices reverberating against the high arches overhead. One by one, they took turns, each invoking the essence of their own Mask Deity with a unique chant. A priest wearing a mask carved in the likeness of a roaring dragon stood at the forefront—his deity revered for power and unyielding resolve. Next came the priest whose mask bore a placid, serene face framed by feathery motifs, representing the calm wisdom of a guardian spirit. Each mask told a silent story: one might show the visage of a weeping maiden symbolizing empathy and grace; another wore the countenance of a snarling beast to embody the Bishonin the fearless ferocity in battle.

As each verse concluded, the hall trembled—though faintly, as though the deities themselves were stirring from ancient slumber. The priests' voices were guided by Naruto's rigorous training in the old Uzumaki ways, a specialized cultivation of spiritual energy once thought lost to time. 

When all fourteen hymns had at last been raised to the either, the atmosphere in the chamber grew charged and electric, like the moment before a thunderstorm. The chanting fell away, replaced by a hushed expectancy. It was then that the five elemental monks stepped forward the Emperor. Arrayed in simple yet dignified attire, they formed a perfect circle around Naruto—no, around the Emperor—and began their own ritual, each channelling one of the five elements. This cleansing of the five elements of the emperor.

The monk representing Fire raised both arms, and a gentle flame flickered to life in his palms. The Air monk breathed in deeply, then let out a gust of swirling wind that rustled the Emperor's robes. The Earth monk knelt, pressing both hands to the ground, causing a subtle tremor to ripple underfoot. Meanwhile, Water flowed like liquid silver from the fourth monk's fingertips, spiraling in an otherworldly dance. Finally, the Lightning monk let static crackle from his fingers, illuminating the hall with a ghostly glow.

Together, these five elements—Fire, Air, Earth, Water, and Lightning—intertwined above the Emperor, merging in a dazzling display of spiritual harmony. It was as though the entire world held its breath, awaiting the ascension of the first Arc Sage into an Emperor in living memory. Beneath the vibrant arcs of elemental power, the fourteen masked priests quietly completed their final benediction. 

In that moment, the power of the Uzumaki masks, the reverence of the 14 deities, and the synergy of the five elements converged upon a magnificent crown set atop a polished marble pedestal, now glowing with newfound radiance after absorbing the swirling energies. The crown itself bore a masterful arrangement of Uzumaki-inspired spirals, their gilded lines whirling gracefully toward the centre. At each subtle turn of the spiral, delicate carvings of the 14 deities stood out in intricate detail—small figures studded with rare and iridescent gems. Pearlescent shards gleamed from their eyes, and opalescent stones adorned their robes, each gem representing a precious resource painstakingly gathered from corners of the world. In its entirety, the crown seemed to pulse with an otherworldly warmth, a treasured artifact now poised to herald a new chapter in history. The courtly throng of spectators, dignitaries, and shinobi alike gazed on in awe, hearts pounding in sync with the crown's soft, gleaming heartbeat, as if sensing that destiny itself had chosen this very moment to reshape the future.

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While all this was happening, Kakashi could not fathom the reality in front of his eyes. Was this the same undernourished brat he had failed all those years ago? Naruto—no, the Emperor—had achieved things that even his sensei could not. Kakashi still wondered, on the day when he heard of Naruto's great feats and now saw them in person, if he would have simply passed Naruto back then—keeping his own biases aside—would this prosperity now belong to Konoha?

He knew for a fact that, had he allowed Naruto to become a genin as part of Team 7 under Konoha's elite patronage, their growth would have been supported by the village. They would be looked upon kindly, and every form of assistance possible would be given. Naruto would not have gone against Lord Third or formed a political alliance of outliers, instead, he would have become part of the faction and successor to Lord Third. Even if his teammates were useless, Naruto could have been just like Minato-sensei, where no one knows who his teammates were, not because it was a secret, but simply because they were unremarkable.

But no—through his own short-sightedness, Kakashi felt he had single-handedly laid the foundation for alienating the next shinobi who had the possibility of rivalling the Professor in his prime, or who knows, maybe even the Second Hokage. He knew he was not the only one who drove Naruto against Konoha, there were others who actively did so unlike him. Yet, he was the first to start that chain of events. And now, he braced himself for what soon would happen to his clan. Even so, he knew Minato-sensei would be proud.

There were days, when Kakashi would lie awake at night, replaying in his mind the belated knowledge that Naruto was Minato-sensei's son. He would recall how this revealed his sensei's conviction to Konoha, eclipsed by the love for his family, because Minato-sensei did not make Naruto the Jinchuriki fully aware that an Uzumaki clan was the only one who, without a shred of doubt, could hold the Kyubi, yet still he chose Konohamaru. Now, Kakashi realized his sensei saw something bigger all along- he saw greatness in Naruto. Minato-sensei was not naïve enough to believe that all his enemies and especially Lady Kushina's enemies would give his son a happy life that is if they allow him to live in the first place, not being a Jinchuriki. In fact, being a Jinchuriki would have made life a worse hell than even the normal fate of a host, because the Konoha's leader unanimously despised Lady Kushina. But making Naruto a Jinchuriki would have at least assured his survival.

Instead, Minato-sensei chose freedom of choice for his son rather than the assurance of life for his son. Naruto might have lived or died before reaching adulthood, but not being a Jinchuriki meant he would not be moulded or enslaved by any ideology and he will free to choose his own path. The village, of course, tried to keep him weak, hoping to stifle those Uzumaki traits once they emerged. Yet Kakashi could see now the gate of freedom Minato-sensei had left half-open for Naruto, a gate now leading to the most magnificent city in the Elemental Nation.

Kakashi breathed unsteadily at the realization, if Naruto had been a Jinchuriki, he would never have been allowed to think for himself, let alone act. And he knew it to be true. Konohamaru, for all the teachings he had received under Lord Jiraya, Lord Alaruya, and Lord Third was still just a bright lad trying to stand as a counter to Uzumaki Naruto. Konohamaru had come very far, he had achieved something Kakashi deemed the greatest of his feats: orienting himself more toward Lord Jiraya's teaching, with a tinge of Lord Third's Will of Fire. Retaining his core kindness and compassion, even under the teaching and teacher who are pragmatic remnants of the clan war era like Lord Alaruya, was a remarkable feat indeed.

Yet Kakashi knew Konohamaru was no Naruto Uzumaki—he was not the visionary this man had become. Though he was no longer the rampaging child Naruto had once beaten down easily, Konohamaru still was not a match for Naruto. Not yet, at least—not until he mastered the last 2 tails.

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For Jiraiya, duty bound him to Konoha, but nothing could restrain the joy he felt in witnessing Naruto's ascension. The old Toad Sage could barely contain the swell of emotion in his chest.

"From what I can glean," Jiraiya thought, "Naruto's very existence itself has changed the flow of fate. To behold what he has become—what he has done—is more rewarding than anything. Perhaps Minato was right to believe his son would change the world... not because of some prophecy, but because he simply believed in his son."

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Yet, not everyone wore Jiraiya's warm smile. Some miles of thought away stood the Fire Daimyo, Ishicava Katagamey. Composed in regal attire, he displayed only one sign of his inner turmoil: a quick, fierce clench of his fists before returning them calmly to his sides.

Born as the eighteenth son of the former Daimyo and child of the seventh wife. Ishicava was never meant to wield power. In all of the Katagamey family's storied history, no son beyond the eighth line had ever ascended to the seat of Daimyo let alone Eighteenth son.

"But then," he mused, "Kushina Uzumaki made the impossible possible."

Decades ago, he had been a slip of a youth barely noticed by his own family. Indeed, few remembered he was already seventeen when first and last he encountered Kushina Uzumaki. Despite his boyish face, he possessed an astute mind. With near-unthinkable cunning, he'd leveraged that chaotic era to emerge as the sole heir to the Land of Fire's throne.

No, he was not angry at Kushina. In truth, he was grateful, she'd spared his life when many others had not been so fortunate. Most believed she had overlooked him because he was a mere child at least by appearance, not realizing he was older than he seemed. In one night, alliances shifted, fortunes crumbled, and Ishicava Katagamey rose to unprecedented power. Yet he knew that behind his unlikely triumph lay the Kushina Uzumaki an ever present threat to his life. If the mad women so chose he was old enough and attempt and succeed.

Ishicava set about solidifying his reign and erase all the thread to him. He turned the Land of Fire against Kushina, stoking their fears and giving them a shared enemy, all so they would unite under him. Then that madman came along and threatened to slaughter everyone who came for his wife. Who does that? But Minato Namikaze was not someone he wanted behind him, so he acquiesced. 

Then, as soon as Kushina and Minato died he celebrated but from the scene, internal strife shook his own hold on power

"I was a fool to think that," Ishicava ruminated. "But I learned. And I will not forget."

The fools believed he was oblivious to the spawn of Kushina Uzumaki. But when he first laid his eyes on the boy, peeking through the carriage during the attempted coup, he recognized him instantly. Yet, he played his part, feigning ignorance of the boy's true identity and swallowing the gob shit Hiruzen Sarutobi's made up. This moment of deceit was a calculated risk.

From that day, he realized his position was tenuous. His second son's involvement in the failed coup, sponsored by the old loyalist families, revealed how fragile his grip on authority truly was. These families deemed his bloodline tainted, too diluted by his mother's relatively recent noble heritage to be legitimate in their eyes. For the first time in years, his supremacy was questioned. Without Kushina to rally against, the aristocracy's gaze shifted toward him. Worse yet, Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, had likely known about it and deliberately turned a blind eye, hoping to negotiate a better deal with whichever Daimyo prevailed.

He decided to adapt. So he decided to play the game. He put down a few smaller families, he couldn't act against the stronger old families, not yet. He waited patiently and found an opportunity when the very same Uzumaki boy started forming political alliances. This time, the Fire Daimyo turned a blind eye to his growing influence and even subtly helped. Over time, Hiruzen's authority waned, culminating in his defeat in Konoha's high court. The stage was set.

As expected, Sukino Nara came with Hiruzen's proposal to aid in eliminating the old families and granting him full control of the Land of Fire, just like his father had. This was Hiruzen's worst nightmare, as he would once again be fully under his family's influence. However, he was willing to do so in order to maintain control in Konoha. So, he played the banishment card, as even he could not be seen going against his own blood debt.

The banishment came next a calculated move meant to rid Hiruzen of his rival without direct conflict. But it was a fatal mistake on his part. The "pawn" crossed the board and became a "king". Naruto Uzumaki, underestimated by many, had grown into a contender capable of swallowing everything the old power structures held dear.

Since he had seen what it was like to live as a mere noble, he could see the writing on the wall, which the fools around him 'his equals' were blind to. He could see that while this was the coronation of Uzushiogakure, and even though no one accepted his rule as the Ruler of Hokubu, the coronation, the addressing, and everything else ensured they acknowledged this fact mentally and socially by just being there.

That was the reason for all this splendour and not to boast but to mentally ensure they had no option other than acknowledging this fact. For now, it was only Hokubu, but what assurance did they have? A daimyo, by definition, is the ruler of his lands, but an emperor, by definition, is the ruler of rulers, and expansion is part of the job title.

"I will find a way," he vowed silently, "and I must do so soon."

The respect and adoration he saw showered at Uzumaki was all he had always longed for. He knew exactly what people whispered behind his back, what they said about his blood. His own subjects barely offered him genuine respect, they feared him and deferred to his family name, but nothing more. Even though he was deemed the most powerful among the five Daimyo, many still looked down on him because of his mother's lowly status. Yet here was Uzumaki Naruto, possessing everything Ishicava had ever wanted. He could compel the proudest men to stand at his entrance purely through the weight of his presence - a testament to the awe he commanded.

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All were drawn from their own musings when the herald's voice echoed throughout the grand hall:

"Now, we will commence the crowning of the Emperor!"

A hush fell over the gathering. Whether they came from distant courts or stood as shinobi witnesses, everyone turned their attention to the raised isles where the royal pedestal lay, crowned by ceremonial lights.

"By the will of the Emperor, and in accordance with the custom of Uzushiogakure,"

"it is the mother—or grandmother—who crowns the next Lord. However, due to the absence

of any maternal main-line Uzumaki, this duty will be carried out by Lady Mithrusha Uzumaki,

the oldest living female Uzumaki at one hundred and ten years old, Grand Seal Mistress, and

head of the Elder Council. She is, for all intents and purposes, the present mother of the clan—

a role that will soon pass to her Grace, Lady Tsunade Senju upon their upcoming marriage."

A murmur of curiosity rippled through the crowd. Lady Mithrusha, despite her advanced age, stood near the magnificent throne with a regal composure that demanded reverence. Her white hair, streaked with silver cascades, was gathered neatly. Symbolic tattoos of sealing scripts adorned her wrinkled hands—signs of her status as Grand Seal Mistress.

Naruto approached Lady Mithrusha, stepping carefully toward the marble pedestal beside the throne. There, resting upon a velvety cushion, was the golden crown shining under the hall's torchlight. With a graceful motion, Lady Mithrusha lifted the crown. Then she took a breath, allowing a subtle chakra enhancement to carry her voice through the hushed audience:

"Uzumaki Naruto," she declared, "heir to the Uzumaki line, child of the Whirlpool.

Kneel before me, the Mother of the Clan, for today I will crown you in the stead of Mother Uzu herself.

Kneel, for it shall be the last time in your life that you kneel before anyone save your masters."

Naruto bowed his head and bent his knee. The crowd fell silent, reverent. One could almost feel the history being written.

With careful, deliberate hands, Lady Mithrusha placed the crown upon Naruto's head. The gems and intricate spiral designs glimmered, reflecting the deep red of his Uzumaki heritage.

"Rise," the old matriarch said, her voice gentler now, "as His Grace Naruto Uzumaki,

Lord and Grace of the Uzumaki Clan, and the Emperor of Uzushiogakure and its principalities."

The hall erupted in cheers. Some called out, "Long live the Emperor!" Others shouted, "Hail, Emperor!" The thunderous applause echoed off the stone walls as Naruto stood, head held high, crowned at alas.

He began to make his way toward the throne at the middle of the aisle, but his path was occupied by a single figure a tall, elderly man.

A second herald bellowed out:

"Hearken, all! Lord Suifu Uzumaki, the legend of the shinobi world, one of the five Grand Marshals of Uzushiogakure who served under the previous grace- His Grace Ashina! He is one hundred and forty years old, having fought in countless wars and skirmishes, most notably the War of Seafarer's, and many more. A veteran, a war hero, a commander, a Lord Grand Marshal and he now stands as the supreme commander of the Uzushiogakure forces. By tradition, he shall kneel before His Grace and present the ancestral sword of the Uzumaki to the Emperor, the birthright bestowed upon every Uzumaki Lord at the time of ascension since the annals of history."

Lord Suifu, despite his century and four decades of age, showed no tremor in his posture. His hair was stark white, braided tightly behind him, and though lines of time etched his face. With a soldier's dignity, he lowered himself onto one knee, head bowed before the newly-crowned Emperor.

Cradled in both hands was a majestic blade, its scabbard etched with rippling wave patterns reminiscent of the Whirlpool symbol. The Arashi no Megami.

Naruto stepped forward and placed his hand lightly on the hilt of the sword. The metal felt cool and heavy with history unlike the countless time he wielded it. Now it seems the sword fully accepted him, a acceptance he didn't know till now was needed. 

"Rise," Naruto said.

Lord Suifu obeyed, meeting Naruto's gaze. He bowed once more and stepped aside clearing path to the thone.

Then he walked the last steps to the crown. 

With Arashi no Megami in one hand and the crown gleaming upon his head, Naruto turned to face the assembled crowd of nobles, shinobi, allies, and perhaps even enemies. A sat on his birth right. A roar erupted again cheers, applause, voices raised in celebration of the Emperor's ascension.

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No sooner had Naruto settled upon the grand throne than the ceremonial trumpets sounded once more. Their deep, resonant notes echoed off the vaulted ceilings, signaling the start of the oath-taking ceremony.

A hush fell over the hall. Lord Suifu stepped forward first. Terumi Mei and Kimimaro Kaguya flanked him, both being the second in command of lord Suifu walking with a solemn expressiion. Reaching the foot of the throne, Lord Suifu knelt on one knee, his weathered features showing deep reverence. Terumi Mei and Kimimaro followed suit, their heads bowed.

"We pledge ourselves and the forces," Lord Suifu declared,"to the Uzumaki main line— To His Grace Naruto Uzumaki, and his descendants, from this day until the end of days."

When they rose, the hush in the hall turned to a soft rustle of anticipation. Next, Lady Mithrusha advanced with measured steps, followed by the rest of the Uzumaki clan. Over a three dozen, they knelt in unison crimson and silver hair mingling in the lamplight each repeating variations of the same oath to their Emperor.

Then came the governors of the various provinces under Uzushiogakure's dominion. They processed in a slow, stately line, each wearing distinctive arm bracers that indicated their rank and the land they represented—Swamps, Demons, Woods, the Valley and Neck, Honey, Keys, Sky, Vegetables, Birds, Forests, Fangs, Noodles, and Wave. As they reached the front, each governor pressed a clenched fist to their heart and sank to one knee.

"We, the governors of our provinces, swear our loyalty to His Grace, Naruto Uzumaki.

May your lands and your peoples know prosperity under your grace's reign."

From among them, Lady Mithrusha emerged yet again still carrying herself with poise despite her advanced age. This time, she bore a golden staff topped with the Uzumaki whirlpool crest. Accompanying her were the elders from each province, their own silver staves gleaming in the torchlight. Arranged behind them were two more representatives from Uzushiogakure, each holding smaller yet similarly ornate rods.

In perfect unison, the entire Elder Council knelt, placing the butt of their staves carefully on the floor so that the rods lay parallel to the ground, as if offering them to the Emperor. 

"We, the Elder Council," Lady Mithrusha pronounced, "pledge ourselves once more

to the Uzumaki Clan and its Emperor. May our wisdom and age guide his graces reign,

and may his reign honor the divine."

At her final word, they all stood, withdrawing with humble bows.

Now, each clan head of the realm came forward. They wore rings unique to their station—some crafted of fine gold, silver and bronze etched with clan crests according to their station, others shaped of rare metals inlaid with precious stones. One by one, beginning with the noble clans, then the major clans, and finally the smaller but no less proud houses, they each knelt in turn, proclaiming unbreakable loyalty to the Emperor. The refrain of solemn oaths, laced with ancient words of their clan. Life Okami's oath is given as witness by lord Inari.

When at last this procession ended, a new wave followed delegates from mercantile guilds, craftsmen's associations, and scattered enclaves arrived to make their pledges. Each stood in awe of the occasion. Some brought symbolic gifts, while others simply offered heartfelt vows, all drawn together by the momentous crowning of this new age.

When the final group finished swearing their oath, a hush dropped over the entire assembly. Lord Suifu stepped forward once more, snapping his heels together in a salute before bowing low.

"Your Grace," he pronounced, voice echoing. "The Oath-Taking is complete."

He rose to address them—and his steady eyes.

"My friends, my allies, and my people…

We stand upon the precipice of a new era.

When I first looked upon these lands—be it the capital of Uzushiogakure or my other provinces many saw only impossibility. Undeveloped lands, fields, borders fraught with discord, and distant provinces struggling for living. But where others saw limits, We saw possibility. I saw fields ripe for cultivation, hidden potential waiting to flourish, and hearts eager to believe in something greater.

Today, by your unwavering faith and steadfast pledges, we embark on a journey toward a brighter, boundless future. A future where we do not merely rebuild the fragments of what once was, but surpass even the grandest dreams of our ancestors.

Now, look around look at the fruits of belief, of unity, of perseverance. Once barren lands now flourish with life, fields heavy with abundance, skies filled with promise, and people thriving in newfound happiness. What was once deemed impossible, dismissed as a fool's hope, has become our undeniable reality.

Together, we have crafted a legacy of prosperity and hope, transforming these lands into a testament to the strength of our will and the power of our vision. Let us march forward, hand in hand, to nurture this reality and to carve an even greater destiny for all who call these lands home.

We must remember that ours is a legacy rooted in the power of the Whirlpool, a power both spiritual and resolute. In returning to the old ways, we will open the gates of spirituality once more, welcoming the divine energies of our world to roam these lands unbidden, just as they did in ages past. With that profound connection, we will stand as caretakers, ensuring that our bond with the deities and the natural forces remains unbroken and honoured.

To every clan, guild, and province that has sworn loyalty today, I promise this:

I will guide, protect, and empower you with all the strength and wisdom I have in me just like my predecessors. And in return, we will take in the responsibilities and rewards of building something worthy, something that will outlast us all.

In this era, we will not be defined by the grudges of history or the divisions of the past. We will be defined by our unity, our compassion, and our relentless will to forge a brighter tomorrow. But mark my words aggression shall me met with preventative force rather than responsive once. Our whirlpool crest symbolizes both resilience and transformation, and so shall we embody that spirit. We are Uzumaki born of the whirlpool, ever-adapting, ever-steadfast.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the foreign dignitaries who made the effort to attend my coronation. I extend my gratitude to the Uchiha clan, who supported me in my early years, and to the many other clans and individuals who helped shape me into the man I am today—from my father, Minato Namikaze, who left a lasting legacy for me and all my ancestors, to Kosuke Maruboshi, a man who offered his help when no one else would.

Welcome to the new era of Uzushiogakure. May our unity guide us, may our hearts remain true, and may the divine grace of our ancestors protect and bless us all.

Henceforth, let us walk forward as one, determined to build a future that illuminates not just our realm, but all the Elemental Nations beyond."

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Not long after Naruto's coronation speech concluded, the ceremonial doors swung open to lead the gathered nobility and dignitaries into an adjoining hall. Soft lantern light bathed this new space, and the scent of incense drifted through the air, lending a sacred stillness. Where once the throne took center stage, now an elaborate wedding dais, decorated with graceful paper screens and delicate floral arrangements, stood ready.

At the head of the dais awaited five Elemental Monks. Each wore layered robes that bore the symbols of their respective elements—Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, and Lightning—meticulously embroidered in gold and crimson thread. Though they were considered beneath the Arch Sage in rank, Naruto had insisted on their presence to preserve the sanctity and spirituality of this marriage. His own students, who were equally qualified as shrine heads of the Fourteen Deities who were in equal footing to the elemental monks, but could not officiate because of their bond as disciples, and Naruto wished for an authentic, reverent ceremony.

Once everyone settled, a gentle hush fell over the room. Naruto stood at one side of the dais, dressed in traditional attire akin to a formal kimono—an elegant blend of imperial regalia and Uzumaki symbolism. The rich black of the outer robe contrasted sharply with the crimson Uzumaki spiral crest embroidered across his back. Tsunade made her entrance moments later, wearing an exquisite white uchikake robe that gleamed in the lantern light, her fair hair delicately pinned up, and her Senju lineage symbol discreetly stitched along the hem.

A collective murmur of admiration rippled through the crowd. The two, Emperor and Lady, united not only by personal affection but by the confluence of their most legendary clans, commanded awe in every gaze that fell upon them.

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The five Elemental Monks arranged themselves in a semicircle around Naruto and Tsunade. Each monk held a small ceremonial object symbolizing their element—a flame-shaped charm, a water gourd, a fan for wind, a stone orb for earth, and a forked rod for lightning. One by one, they chanted blessings, calling upon the harmony of the five elements to sanctify this union.

In the hush that followed the chanting, Tsunade and Naruto turned to face one another. Under the guidance of the monks, they bowed, first to the deities symbolized by the five elements, then to each other. They each sipped from a small cup of sake, a traditional act of unity binding two souls together in the eyes of the clan, the spirits, and the assembled witnesses.

"From this day, we share not just a bond of hearts," Naruto intoned,"but a bond of duty and devotion to our people." Intoned Tsunade.

Tsunade offered a small, genuine smile. "I, Tsunade Senju, stand by you in protecting your lands, furthering our legacy, and bringing hope to those who look to us."

Members of nobility from Uzushiogakure's newly sworn provinces, foreign dignitaries, and allied clans watched in rapt attention. Some recognized how symbolic this moment was: the Uzumaki whirlpool and the Senju lineage, once one then bifurcated now again rejoined as one. 

When the final blessing was pronounced by the lead Elemental Monk, Naruto and Tsunade each took hold of a ceremonial cloth inscribed with the combined crests of Uzumaki and Senju. They clasped hands, pressing the cloth between their palms. At once, the Monk representing Lightning produced a faint spark that danced across the cloth—symbolizing the vibrant energy that now bound them together.

The hall erupted in gentle applause and murmurs of congratulations. 

In the golden glow of lanterns, with the swirling incense continuing to rise like silent prayers, Naruto Uzumaki and Tsunade Senju turned to face their guests. The foreign dignitaries bowed, the clan representatives offered respectful nods, and the entire nobility bore witness to a moment steeped in both tradition and hope. Hand in hand, the newlyweds—the Emperor and Empress stepped down from the dais, ready to walk a path that would shape the future of the Elemental Nations.

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As the final notes of the wedding ceremony drifted away, attention settled on Tsunade, who stepped forward with measured grace. The warm glow of lanterns reflected on her white uchikake robe, turning its embroidered Senju crest into a faint, golden outline. She drew a breath, her voice carrying an air of gravity.

"As per the Treaty of Siajin," Tsunade began, "a bride of the Uzumaki was once given to the Senju. Now, upon the end of that treaty, a Senju bride is offered to the Uzumaki. In so doing, we Senju have honored our part in the agreement."

A faint stirring rippled through the gathering, hushed voices affirming her statement. This century-old treaty had shaped the fates of nations and clans.

Suddenly, Ishicava Katagamey, the Fire Daimyo himself, stepped forward from among the ranks of dignitaries. His regal robes rustled softly as he moved. 

"While it saddens me that one of the key treaties shaping our hidden village era is coming to its end," he said, "we shall honour our own obligations in this accord. The monetary recompense that was given by Uzu at the inception of Konoha a one thousand tons of gold shall be returned. Along with this, the scrolls and artifacts that accompanied that payment will likewise be restored to their rightful place."

"Further, the Hatake clan once part of Lady Mito's dowry will also be returned to Uzushiogakure."

His pronouncement caused a stir in the hall. Lords and clan heads exchanged glances, fully aware of the Hatake clan's legacy and the symbolic weight of them returning to Uzushiogakure. All eyes drifted to Naruto, who had quietly been observing from his place near Tsunade.

Naruto inclined his head, acknowledging Lord Ishicava's words.

"That is honourable of you, Lord Ishicava," he said. The subtle shift in the Daimyo's expression suggested he noticed the careful choice of address an Emperor speaking to a Daimyo, yet offering courtesy. "The Treaty of Siajin has run its course, and your willingness to uphold its final conditions is commendable."

A hush fell as Naruto straightened. He scanned the chamber, his gaze lingering on the ancient Hatake crest displayed prominently on one person. Almost at once, a tall, silver-haired figure emerged from the sea of onlookers a person who well know, Lord Hatake himself. His eyes shone with an unmistakable brightness, a spark of joy that belied the rigid composure expected of a noble.

Without hesitation, he lowered himself onto one knee. Even the quiet rustle of his robes felt charged with emotion. Bowing his head in respect, he spoke:

"Your Grace, Naruto Uzumaki, I—I can scarcely find the words to express my gratitude. My clan has long awaited this moment, to return to the fold from which we were parted. I stand before you now with a heart full of pride and joy…pleased beyond measure to be Hatake of Uzushiogakure once more."

His voice wavered slightly on the last words, revealing the depth of his heartfelt sentiment. They sensed that what drove Lord Hatake to his knee was not the decree but it was the genuine joy of a lineage finally welcomed home.

Naruto inclined his head, acknowledging the impromptu oath of loyalty. And said Rise Lord Hatake of Uzushiogakure no seto.

"However," Naruto continued, "I have received a personal request from one of the Hatake Kakashi. He was born and raised in Konoha, and his devotion to the village where he grew up is not easily severed. In the spirit of goodwill, I will not force him to leave his birth village. I grant Hatake Kakashi the freedom to remain if that is his wish, any Hatake member who wishes to return may do so."

Lord Ishicava's features remained inscrutable, though the slight raise of his brow betrayed a fleeting surprise. But he knew well that no Hatake will chose to do so, not after years of antagonization.

Tsunade rested a light hand on Naruto's arm, glancing up at him with a small, approving smile. 

Though Hiruzen and elders were looking the even with stoic expression.

So the festivity continued.

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Thus, Volume One draws to a triumphant close. Stay tuned for the next exciting chapter of NTLHOS!

Concluding Note:

And so, we close the first volume of Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm. It's been a wild ride, and I hope you've enjoyed the twists, the revelations, and the journey of characters as much as I've enjoyed crafting them. Thank you for tolerating me as an author, and for being part of this journey. Until the next volume this is The Third Fire Trident, signing off! 🔥⚔️✨

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NTLHOS-2: Chapter 1: A New Era. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 2: Dark Coulds. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 3 – A monster from the past. IS OUT!

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 4 – Drums and Gongs of War.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 5 – First Wave. IS OUT.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 6 – Price of Freedom.

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 7 – Crimson Storm. 

NTLHOS-2: Chapter 8 – Retaliation.

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 9 – The Gathering Woods In The Pyre. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 10 – We Forgive, But We Never Forget. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 11 – The Dept Is Called. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 12- How Times have changed. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 13: A New Game Of Chess. IS OUT! 

NTLHOS BOOK 2: Chapter 14: The Power Of A Single Stroke Of A Pen. IS OUT!!!!!! (NEW)

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