Chương 28: PART 2.
The desert sun rose relentlessly on the horizon, bathing the vast expanse of sand in its sweltering heat. Although it was barely dawn, the desert longed for the arrival of the celestial fire that promised the day.
Mirai's every breath was carefully controlled, a skill honed over years of training and missions accomplished. With each step, his boots kicked up clouds of sand, as waves of heat distorted the dunes in the distance.
Pushing herself to the limit of her endurance, Mirai ran as hard as her legs would allow. In the midst of his exhausting effort, he took out a small compass from the pocket of his worn yellow cloak.
Despite the heat and sweat pooling beneath her cloak, Mirai persevered, aware that hiding her uniform was crucial to avoiding detection. She preferred to endure the scorching heat of the desert than face the consequences of being discovered in that inhospitable place.
Each step in the fiery sand seemed to drain Mirai's energy, but she persisted, focused on the movement of the compass hands as she continued to run. With only his worn yellow cloak to conceal his identity, he endured the scorching heat of the sun as he made his way to an unknown destination in the vast desert.
"Clandestinity?!" His own voice echoed out like an echo of the previous night's conversation. "I don't understand... How...?! How am I...?!"
"Now is not the time to question your values. Do you understand the importance of putting aside your honor as a ninja and remaining silent?" The old woman had whispered firmly, making sure not to wake the children sleeping nearby. "Their names, their techniques... Those children are special just because they come from the future. Do you know that their abilities increase the price for their heads?"
In reality, Mirai took a leap up a sand hill, looking to gain ground more quickly. After taking a brief moment to catch his breath, he put the compass in his pocket and continued with his defiant marathon, with a serious expression on his face.
Sweat ran down her body, and her disheveled hair fluttered as she went. Each step was a struggle against the exhaustion and uncertainty that gnawed at him inside. The memory of the conversation with the old lady kept echoing in his mind, increasing his impatience and anxiety.
"Honor will not serve you here. Being honorable will only lead to your death. In this world, no one will congratulate you or care about you." The old woman's voice echoed firmly in her ears.
Mirai, absorbed in her thoughts like a Konoha ninja, hadn't fully grasped the gravity of those words at that moment.
"Clandestine missions... Dangerous terrain but suitable for you. With your knowledge of the future and the rarity of your age, you have the ability to use the Chakra in these quests. But responsibly! Can you hear me? You are not invincible!"
Mirai was perplexed at the thought of immersing herself in the underworld, a terrain she had always fought as a ninja of Konoha.
The word itself seemed ironic and unreliable. How could he participate in something he had dedicated his life to eradicating? Being a part of it would add a layer of hypocrisy to his role as a ninja.
But before she could express her doubts, the old woman interrupted her with a determination that left her speechless. His imposing presence seemed to crush her with his single gaze.
"You will go out at the first ray of sunshine. You can't afford to waste time, can you?" His words resounded with authority.
Mirai nodded silently.
"When I went through your belongings, I noticed something peculiar among them: a compass identical to mine. To see it with my own eyes... It cannot be a coincidence." The old woman added, taking from the pocket of her robe a compass that Mirai recognized instantly.
Hopping between the rocks blocking her path, Mirai recalled the conversation as her gaze wandered into the vast desert beyond. A sea of yellow sand stretched to the horizon.
"Go north from here, much further. You should find some ruins."
"Ruins?" Mirai asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Yes, that's right." The old woman nodded, approaching her. "A long time ago, a city was devastated and its inhabitants were forced to hide in the shadows. The last time I heard from them, they were protecting their queen's only remaining daughter. If you're lucky, you might encounter them on the routes surrounding the ruins. After all, it's your duty to stay close to them."
"And what benefit will I get from meeting them?" Mirai asked, trying to understand the purpose of this mission.
The old woman looked away for a moment, avoiding Mirai's eyes.
"They'll know how to get you to a place where they know me pretty well." The old woman said, bluntly.
"And what should I do once I get there?" Mirai asked, seeking clarity.
"Just mention me." The woman replied serenely after a few seconds of reflection. "When you're with the people of that city and when you get to the place. The moment you enter the Nightfall, tell them; tell them that you are coming by order of the Ebon Shadow."
Mirai stood in the narrow gap between two towering mountains of sand. His gaze was lost in the vastness of the desert that stretched beyond.
With determination, he took a nimbly leap and clung to one of the rocks that protruded from the sandy ground. His hands rested firmly on the rough surface as his feet searched for a safe foothold.
The warm air caressed his face, carrying with it small particles of sand. The sun's rays filtered through the cracks in the rocks, creating dancing shadows on the ground. Mirai pushed hard and lunged for the next rock, feeling the adrenaline rush through her body as she descended the narrow rocky passage.
Each step was a careful choice, a choreographed dance between its movements and the shapes of the rocks. His fingers clung to the edges, feeling the rough, eroded texture of the stone. The sound of their footsteps echoed through the narrow space, mingling with the whisper of the wind that filtered through the gaps.
Descending the narrow gorge, Mirai faced the challenge of balancing on the loose, shifting sand. The blazing sun cast elongated shadows around him, playing with light and shadow in the rocky landscape. In the distance, the desert stretched out with rolling dunes and an endless horizon.
Each leap and sure step brought her closer to the golden sands that stretched at the foot of the mountains. Despite the overwhelming heat, Mirai pressed forward with determination, determined to overcome any obstacles that stood in her way to her destination.
"Are you leaving yet?" The old woman asked in her memories, as she organized the cups and glasses for the young ninjas' breakfast.
"I've been thinking all night." Mirai replied, before the sun rose. "I need to find out what led them to this situation, even if I can't go home."
The old woman made a sound of nod, concentrating on her task.
Mirai kept her composure, but hinted at the slight obstacle that still held her in the shelter.
"As for them..." she began to say, but was interrupted by the old woman.
"Leave them in my hands." The old woman interrupted her, her gaze fixed on the young woman. "If they still haven't gotten up after just a few hours, it's a reminder of your rush. I'll take care of them while you're away. Don't worry, they will be well taken care of."
"I understand..." Mirai murmured, though she insisted once more. "But... What do you mean by those words?"
"Time affects everyone differently, as I've already shown you." The old woman explained. "However, with them it could be the other way around. Time is disoriented, and their bodies may react in unusual ways."
At that moment, Mirai watched the ninjas out of the corner of their eyes as they slept peacefully, with serene and unperturbed faces.
Her interactions with them emerged as fleeting memories: Boruto's impatience in the desert, how Sarada rescued her from a predicament with an enemy, Wasabi and Iwabee's bravery in battle...
"And what will happen...?" Mirai asked, eager for answers.
"If you don't want to find out, go now." The old woman urged her firmly. "Move towards your goal and do whatever it takes. You will return at dusk and I will guide you on your journey through time. I'm not your babysitter; you must fulfill the task that has been entrusted to you. Thinking about those things will only slow you down."
"I understand." Mirai replied solemnly.
He recalled biting his tongue in reaction, and then bowed remarkably as a token of appreciation. Despite feeling an itch in his eyes, his voice came out of his throat determinedly.
"Thank you very much!" Mirai expressed gratefully, while the Great Old Woman seemed unaware of the emotional overflow.
Finally, Mirai reached the last rock and descended gently over the soft sand. His feet sank slightly into the ground, leaving temporary footprints in his wake.
Before her lay a vast sea of golden sand, interrupted only by the undulating silhouettes of the dunes. The silence of the desert enveloped his surroundings, only interrupted by the whisper of the wind and the soft crunch of the sand beneath his feet.
Taking a moment to take a deep breath, Mirai absorbed the grandeur of the desert that stretched out before her. With determination in her eyes, she stepped into the sands, ready to face the challenges and discoveries that awaited her on her way to the ruins and beyond.
(~~~)
The click of the bag strap echoed through the room, marking the start of her departure. The space, almost devoid of life and with barely an echo of his thoughts, seemed to have absorbed the restlessness and worries that Shikamaru carried with him. With a weary expression, his eyes fell on the messy bed, where there were still some belongings to be collected.
Early morning had arrived before the sun had risen on the horizon, and Shikamaru was already immersed in a tangle of thoughts and dilemmas. The weight of responsibilities seemed to pile on his shoulders, and the certainty that the problems would not fade away when he returned home only accentuated his discouragement.
A Chunin with commendable strategic skills, Shikamaru had received recognition from the Hokage and was frequently assigned to lead his own squad. Although many of his classmates were the same age as Asuma, his late teacher, and even the same age as his father, Shikamaru stood above them, carrying with him a load of expectations and responsibilities.
In the guest room, Shikamaru clearly showed his discouragement. His countenance reflected the weight of recent events: the tragic death of his master, the devastating attack on Konoha, and the puzzling events in the sand village. However, he was aware that he had to maintain his determination, preventing his discouragement from becoming a drag on his team.
With slow but determined movements, Shikamaru finished gathering his belongings, making sure he didn't forget anything. The disorder in the room was a reflection of his mental state, but before leaving, he paused for a moment to compose himself. He adjusted his ninja vest and straightened his shoulders, trying to maintain a firm and collected posture despite his tiredness.
The first rays of the golden sun filtered timidly across the horizon, illuminating the landscape beyond the window. The hidden village of the sand was slowly beginning to awaken, as the cool dawn air caressed the room, bringing with it a glimmer of hope.
With a resigned sigh, Shikamaru turned the key and closed the door behind him, the sound of wood snapping into the frame echoing in the silence of the hallway. His footsteps were slow and heavy as he traversed the corridors of the building, discouragement clinging to his spirit like an unrelenting shadow.
As he moved forward, his mind was filled with overwhelming thoughts. The death of his master, the devastating attack on Konoha, and the disturbing events in the sand village were intertwined in his head, creating a whirlwind of worry and anguish.
However, Shikamaru knew that he could not allow himself to be overcome by hopelessness. As a ninja and protector of his village, he was determined to face the challenges ahead with bravery and determination.
In the thick fog of his gloomy thoughts, a familiar voice broke the silence of the hall.
"Hey, Shikamaru!"
The sound of that voice shook his heart, a rush of familiarity and friendship that momentarily allayed his worries. He turned his head and saw Ino, his teammate, approaching him with a smile on her face.
"Good morning." Ino greeted, with a mixture of joy and concern in his eyes. "Haven't you slept at all? You look exhausted."
Shikamaru gave a half-smile, plus a grimace, and scratched his head.
"Sleep... How am I supposed to sleep with so many things on my mind? It looks like my head is about to explode."
Ino bowed his head slightly, understanding. He knew that the burden Shikamaru carried on his shoulders was overwhelming, but he also knew that they could support each other in moments like this.
Chōji, with his voracious appetite and reassuring aura, joined the group, devouring the rice balls he held in his arms as if they were his most precious treasure.
"Shikamaru, you're not alone in this." He said in a soft but firm voice. "We are here with you, ready to face any challenge that comes your way."
The comforting words of his teammates reached Shikamaru's heart, fading the weight of his worries somewhat.
At that moment, Ino caught the movement of two figures approaching. It was Captain Yamato, walking with a determined step, and Temari de la Sand, who accompanied them. The presence of both did not go unnoticed by Ino.
"Ah, good morning, Captain Yamato!" Chōji exclaimed, stepping forward to greet the newcomer.
Yamato, with his understanding and collected tone, reciprocated Chōji's greeting by stopping right behind Shikamaru. Curiosity took over Nara when he noticed the presence of the blonde Kunoichi.
"Is something wrong?" Shikamaru asked immediately, aware that Temari's appearance was no coincidence.
Temari's gaze met Shikamaru's, and a mixture of determination and concern was drawn on his face.
"There is important information that we must share before they leave." Temari spoke in his characteristic serious tone.
"Information?" Shikamaru frowned, anticipating that the news could be crucial.
"It's about... the Black Sand."
"Ah!" Ino panted next to the black-haired man. "I was about to ask! Have you figured out what that is?"
"Hum... More or less." Temari's words shocked the group of ninjas.
The seriousness of his tone indicated that what he was going to share was of the utmost importance. The mystery of the black sand had deepened, and now they were about to discover its true nature.
We didn't say it in front of you because it was our problem. Temari began seriously.
"However, Gaara agreed to help the Hokage, and now, with this problem, Gaara hopes that the Hokage will do the same."
"What is it about?" Shikamaru asked with interest.
Temari frowned slightly, showing concern in his expression.
"That "Black Sand" was not simply sand." He said in a lower voice, aware of his public environment. "Do you know the stories about one of the Kazekages?"
"One of the Kazekage..." Shikamaru repeated, his mind working at full speed.
The implications of what Temari was hinting at began to take shape in Shikamaru's mind. He looked at Yamato, who already seemed to be aware of the situation, which confirmed his suspicions.
Within a few seconds, Shikamaru came to a conclusion. His eyes widened slightly as he processed the information about the Kazekage in his head.
"Iron Sand..." Shikamaru muttered, letting the weight of those words settle in his mind.
Temari nodded solemnly.
"That thing we saw... was Iron Sand?" Shikamaru asked, sharing his surprise with his companions.
The Third Kazekage of the Arena Village. That name resonated with a mystical reverence when its title was pronounced.
He was known throughout the ninja world for his mastery of the fearsome and magnificent technique of manipulating the Iron Sand. This unique sand had the unique ability to be attracted to the user who wielded it, an ability envied and feared in equal measure.
But both the disappearance of the Kazekage and the details of its technique had always been a mystery. Never before had anyone been known capable of handling the same techniques as him. Therefore, the Konoha ninja who stood before the descendant of this legendary Kazekage fully understood the gravity of the matter.
"And how are you so sure that it can be treated... of that?" The one with the ash hair asked, showing caution when mentioning the aforementioned technique. "It could have just been a mistake... Couldn't it?"
Temari's silence was enough of an answer for her. The young woman sighed, feeling the weight of the situation on her shoulders.
However, Temari's expression hinted that she, too, hoped Ino's doubts were true. His countenance became gloomy, as if he were contemplating his own situation with regret.
"We were present when it happened, but when the news reached the advisors..." Temari began.
"They came to that conclusion." Shikamaru added, taking his hands out of his pockets and adopting an analytical tone. "If the elders are sure that this is what it is about, we cannot ignore that possibility."
"Gaara has increased surveillance throughout the village, both inside and outside the hospital." added the blonde with green eyes. "The child is a crucial witness. If what happened to him is related to what happened in our village, then it is a problem that concerns us all."
"Being from the Sand or not." Shikamaru added, anticipating to clear his companions without having to look at them. "This incident happened in the Sand, and as allies, we will face this problem together."
"That's right." Temari nodded, confirming Nara's words.
The exchange of words between the two ninjas was worthy of being watched by prying eyes. With just a glance, Konoha's Shikamaru and Desert Temari took advantage of their peculiar working relationship.
There was a maturity to their conversations, with a touch of gossip and a dash of camaraderie. Although the exchange of words of encouragement between them was something alien to their relationship, it was no longer strange.
In the reflective silence, Captain Yamato decided to intervene.
"We'd better get back to Konoha as soon as possible. Let us leave this matter in your hands until we need your help." He reported, glancing at Temari. "Konoha is going through a bad time..."
"I understand. In that case, it is better that they leave as soon as possible." The young woman nodded. "We'll take care of the paperwork. It is assumed that Konoha received it before the sun rose."
"Thank you for your cooperation."
"There's no point." Temari declined the thanks. "Be careful."
"Hm." Ino nodded in gratitude. "Thank you very much, Temari."
Shikamaru nodded as well, expressing his gratitude with a nod.
(~~~)
Sumire paced Konoha's small apartment back and forth with nervous footsteps and a worried look. His hands were wringing anxiously as the tension in the room increased. Himawari and his friends watched intently, clearly sensing Sumire's growing nervousness.
The atmosphere inside the apartment was oppressive, as if it was imbued with an unsettling energy.
The air was becoming thick, as if foreshadowing a storm about to break out between the four walls. The silence was only broken by the soft ticking of the wall clocks, which marked the inexorable passage of time with an ominous echo.
The curtains remained closed, plunging the room into a mysterious gloom. The dim light from the lamp barely illuminated the space, giving rise to shadows that moved ominously, as if hiding dark secrets among them.
Sumire continued her frantic walk, her mind overwhelmed with disturbing thoughts. Each step echoed on the floor, adding to the tension of the atmosphere. The ticking of the clock seemed to keep pace with the racing beat of his heart, intensifying the sense of danger that filled the room.
Eho glanced outside from the window. The wind blew with unusual force, whispering indecipherable secrets through the cracks. The leaves of the trees trembled as if they knew something that the rest did not, increasing the intrigue in the air.
Sumire's restless eyes met those of Himawari and his friends. It was evident that something was not right, and the oppressive atmosphere in the department seemed to affect everyone equally. The tension became almost palpable, enveloping them in a web of suspicion and fear.
Cautiously, Sumire approached the window, scanning the outside anxiously and cautiously. A light breeze brushed his face, but far from bringing relief, it seemed to convey a message of warning. In the distance, birds were singing in the trees, but their melody was overshadowed by an aura of insecurity and bewilderment.
With trembling hands, Sumire slowly closed the curtains, creating a protective wall against the outside world.
However, the sense of security it provided was short-lived. He imagined shadows lurking among the buildings, hidden figures who might discover their presence along with the children. The fear of being discovered and the possible consequences for her and her mission consumed her.
The constant ticking of the wall clock echoed in the silence, reminding him that time was an implacable enemy.
At the time, she was alone with the children, as Hinoko and Ro, her fellow Anbu, had gone out in search of answers amid the turmoil engulfing Konoha. The responsibility weighed on her shoulders, crushing her with its burden.
Every step Sumire took, every movement he made, was charged with excessive attention. Any unusual sound or change in the environment could trigger a whirlwind of emotions and jeopardize their covert mission. Uncertainty and fear were reflected in his eyes, while his senses remained on high alert.
As the morning wore on, the bustle of the city came alive, but inside the apartment there was a dense and oppressive silence. Sumire struggled to keep her calm, but her heart was pounding, like a drum raging in her chest. Every beat echoed in his ears, reminding him of the fragility of his situation.
Sumire realized that she had to tread carefully and find a way to protect the children while keeping her identity a secret. The tension in the air intensified, as if they were in the center of a storm.
Not only did he have a responsibility to protect the children, but he also cared about the people of the past who were victims of the Cataclysm they experienced. It was as if strangers had settled into their lives, people from the future eager to survive who took their places in time.
"I can't allow those people to be in danger. I can't... I can't."
He closed his eyes tightly at the idea.
Thousands of innocent families. Children, the elderly, animals...
Each life was equally valuable. She and her friends had learned that the worst way possible.
Although the sun shone outside, inside it reigned a whirlwind of emotions, where fear and anxiety wove an intricate labyrinth from which she had to find a safe exit.
In that small apartment, Sumire was at a crossroads between the need to fulfill her mission and the constant threat of being discovered.
It was a dangerous dance in which every movement, every word, could change the course of events. With each sigh, he clung to the hope that his actions and determination would be enough to keep those he had sworn to protect safe.
"Shikamaru-san has entrusted me with this task... I cannot disappoint him!"
"This... Sumire-san."
"Huh?"
Sumire, lost in her worries, was at a crossroads between protecting children and the constant fear of revealing her true identity. Himawari, his eyes full of curiosity and innocence, approached her with determination.
"Sumire-san, something's not right, is it?"
Sumire tried to keep them safe and away from the dangers ahead, but she was aware that Himawari would not give up easily.
After all, it was more dangerous not to share with them the essentials. Being from a different time, they would have to learn new rules and routines to survive in the past.
Their eyes met, and in that instant, Sumire knew she must share some of the truth with her.
"Himawari-chan, understand that what I am about to reveal to you is of the utmost importance and danger. You must promise me that you will keep it a secret and not tell anyone else."
Himawari nodded solemnly, his blue eyes fixed on Sumire's. The girl was aware that something serious was happening and was ready to listen carefully.
The serious face of Sumire, the strategist of the last surviving generation of her time, trembled slightly as she faced the student of the Ninja Academy. I didn't want to treat them like soldiers.
"During the early morning, Ro-san and Hinoko-san discovered something alarming. High-ranking ninjas, including experienced medics, are frequently visiting the village morgue. It seems that they are looking for something, something that could be related to us, to the Cataclysm and to the fact that we come from the future."
Himawari was stunned by Sumire's words. His face reflected a mixture of disbelief and concern. The other children, who had been listening to the conversation silently, also showed signs of intrigue and confusion.
Only they knew until now why the portals appeared with corpses coming out of them. A rain of blood had fallen on their little heads, while the screams of all those people vanished as if they were absorbed and vaporized by the sun itself.
Their stocks were incinerated to ashes, while their bodies only suffered the blows of the impacts when they left the portals.
"Does this mean that the people of Konoha know about us? Do you know what has happened?" Himawari asked, his voice trembling.
Sumire nodded solemnly, aware of the gravity of the situation.
"We don't know exactly how much they know yet, but it's clear that they've discovered something. The situation is becoming more and more dangerous, and we need to be careful who we trust and how we move within the village."
The children's faces reflected a mixture of fear, uncertainty and determination. Himawari, with his courageous spirit and desire to protect his family and friends, looked up at Sumire. But he brought her back to the ground as she began to think for herself, just as Sumire was preparing for another unknown.
"How is it possible that we have been discovered?" Himawari whispered, his blue eyes filled with concern.
Sumire, aware of the gravity of the situation, shared her thoughts and conclusions with the children. He explained how Ro and Hinoko had discovered the suspicious visits to the morgue during the early morning, and how this pointed to the fact that the Konoha people were starting to connect the dots.
"I... I promise nothing will come out of my mouth!" The younger Uzumaki said, both hands clasped at the sides of her hips. "I can't lie to you, I'm also afraid... However, I can't ignore your reactions, Sumire-san! Is there something... in what can be useful to you?"
Himawari, the youngest of the Uzumaki, stepped forward with determination, her hands clasped at the sides of her hips. His trembling but brave voice echoed through the small apartment, filling it with a mixture of confusion and bravery.
As Himawari waited for their answer, Sumire looked at them one by one, sensing in their eyes the same surprise that filled her.
The lavender-haired girl, with her bubbling determination, reminded him of someone very special. Not as flaming as the face that came to his mind when he looked Himawari in the eye, but with a courage similar to his, someone who never hesitated to protect his own.
The morning breeze, laden with nostalgia, made the worn curtains move smoothly. In the midst of the semi-darkness, Sumire found a brief moment of calm. The bright light of the rising sun brought with it a torrent of memories and visions.
He remembered a childlike face, always radiant, whose light rivaled that of the brightest stars in the sky.
He visualized the figure of an adult leader, his cloak fluttering in the wind, full of pride for the battles won and the comrades honored. On his shoulders, the insignia of the "Seventh Hokage" stood out, with an air of authority and determination.
Memories crowded Sumire's mind as her right hand rose solemnly.
The smell of dust, lingering from the recent move, permeated the air. Finally, his hand found a smooth but rough surface, as if it was worn or stained. With each delicate caress, he allowed the warmth of the unknown skull to flow down his arm until it reached his heart.
Himawari silently watched respectfully, not interrupting Sumire during these moments. She let herself be carried away by the tranquility that invaded her when Sumire caressed her head.
"Maybe another time..." Whispered Sumire, with a hint of doubt in her voice, as her violet eyes reflected a combination of tenderness and concern.
Himawari, with her bright blue eyes and curious mind, was intrigued by the emotions reflected in Sumire's face.
A flash of determination flashed across Sumire's gaze, as if she were about to share something else, an idea that crept furtively through her thoughts. The dust floating in the air seemed to capture the tension and longing that filled the room, revealing Sumire's internal struggle.
"When Ro-san and Hinoko-san come back, I'd like you to take care of your friends, okay?" Sumire whispered, her words laden with a barely perceptible suggestion.
Himawari caught the nuance in her voice and looked at her in amazement, while her friends remained silent, catching the intensity of the conversation.
Deep down, Sumire regretted the idea she was about to express, an idea of escaping Konoha and seeking a safe haven.
Yet he kept that thought deep in his heart, letting the words float in the air like an unrevealed clue, a possibility he hoped would not be discovered.
That task had already been taken up by others, and it was the most dangerous of all.
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