Great Sage In Naruto

Chapter 6 - calm before the storm

The village was abuzz with the news of the mysterious merchant who had arrived with vibrant wares and a sharp wit. Kira, under the guise of a traveling trader, quickly became a favorite among the villagers. Her stories and laughter blended seamlessly with their own, and even Akira found himself drawn to her charm.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the village in a warm, golden glow, Akira approached Kira by the fishpond. "You seem to know a lot about many things," he said, curiosity evident in his voice. "Your insights and skills... they go beyond that of an ordinary merchant."

Kira's eyes twinkled with a hint of amusement and respect. She sensed Akira's sharp perception and the sincerity in his words. "You're right," she admitted, her voice soft. "I'm not just a merchant. I'm a ninja from the Land of Water."

Akira's eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly composed himself. The pieces began to fall into place—the way she moved, the knowledge she possessed, the aura of strength that surrounded her. "A ninja," he repeated, awe and curiosity mingling in his voice. "Why are you here, then? What brings you to our village?"

Kira hesitated, her gaze turning thoughtful. She had come to the village with a mission, but she had grown to admire its people and their spirit. "Originally, I came to gather information," she confessed. "But I've come to respect what you have built here, Akira. Your vision, your leadership—it's something worth protecting."

Akira nodded, understanding the weight of her words. He saw an opportunity in this revelation, a chance to strengthen the village further. "Kira," he began, determination in his eyes, "I want to learn from you. Your skills, your knowledge—they could help me protect this village. Will you teach me?"

Kira studied him for a moment, seeing the potential and earnestness in his request. She knew the journey ahead would be challenging, but she also saw the strength of character that could lead them through it. "Very well," she agreed, a small smile forming on her lips. "I will teach you, Akira. But you must be prepared for the trials that come with it. Ninjas must possess not just physical strength, but mental and emotional resilience as well."

From that day forward, their relationship evolved from mere acquaintance to mentor and student. Kira began training Akira in the early morning hours, teaching him the fundamentals of ninja techniques, stealth, and combat. She emphasized the importance of breathing and focus, guiding him through rigorous exercises that honed his body and mind.

In the peaceful interlude before the storm, Akira dedicated himself to mastering his breathing techniques and water jutsus under Kira's careful mentorship. Each day, as the sun began to rise, they would meet by the fishpond, its surface gleaming like a mirror in the early light.

Kira, with her experience as a shinobi, guided Akira through a series of disciplined exercises. "Breathing is the essence of life," she would remind him, her voice calm and steady. "Control your breath, and you control your energy. Let it flow through you like the currents of the ocean."

Akira sat cross-legged, his eyes closed, focusing on the rhythm of his breath. Inhale... exhale... each breath a wave, rising and falling, connecting him to the world around him. Kira watched closely, offering gentle corrections and encouragement.

Under her guidance, Akira's control over his breathing and water jutsu's improved remarkably. Kira was especially impressed in how quickly he picked up on jutsu she thought him. Thankfully she didn't know that Akira purposefully slowed down his progress to not freak her out as if she knew he could instantly learn it after watching it once would destroy her understanding of the world.

One afternoon, as they practiced by the pond, Kira introduced a new technique. "This is the water clone jutsu," she explained, her hands moving in a series of complex seals. "It requires immense concentration and control. Watch closely."

With a final seal, Kira unleashed a torrent of water that coalesced into the form identical to her. Akira's eyes widened in awe. "I'll give it a try," he said, determination etched on his face.

Despite the progress they made, an unsettling feeling began to gnaw at Akira. At night, he dreamed of dark shadows and fierce battles, the visions lingering like a foreboding mist. One evening, as they trained by the fading light of the setting sun, Akira paused, his breath catching in his throat.

"Kira," he said, his voice hesitant, "I can't shake this feeling that something terrible is coming. It's like a storm on the horizon, just out of sight."

Kira's expression turned serious. "We must remain vigilant," she replied, her tone grave. "Your intuition is strong, Akira. Trust it, and prepare for whatever may come."

Unaware of the imminent threat from the Hoshino family, they continued their training with renewed urgency, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. Little did they know that their peaceful days were numbered, and the strength they were building would soon be tested in ways they could not imagine.