Chapter 14: Reflection and Reunion and Residing

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Kūga walked the overgrown path to his childhood home, memories flooding his mind.

Wildflowers swayed in the breeze, and nostalgia hung heavy in the air. At the clearing, grave markers beckoned.

As he approached the small clearing where his family's home had stood, the sight of the grave markers sent a wave of emotion crashing over him.

The graves of his parents, simple yet beautiful, were adorned with wildflowers that danced gently in the breeze.

Kneeling before them, Kūga took a deep breath, his heart heavy with unspoken words.

"Mother, Father," he began, his voice soft yet resolute, "it's me, Kūga. I've come to share my life with you." He paused, looking at the stones that bore their names.

"I've grown strong, stronger than I ever thought I could be. I've faced challenges that would have made me tremble before, but I've found my footing."

Kūga recounted tales of his training, of how he had harnessed Aether and forged deep bonds with two remarkable men, Hashirama and Madara.

He shared the laughter and struggles, the moments of triumph and defeat. "They've become like brothers to me. I wish you could have met them. You would have been proud."

As he spoke to his mother's grave, a sense of warmth enveloped him. "I know so little about you, Mom... but father told me about how wise you were, so I could use your guidance. I hope you're watching over me."

He knelt a little closer, the soft soil cool against his skin, and whispered, "I promise to honor your memory by protecting those I care about."

A sudden rustle in the trees caught his attention, and as he turned, he found Kami standing silently a few meters away, a playful smirk gracing his features.

The old man looked exactly as he remembered. He was still ageless, with an air of mischief.

Kūga's lips curled into a smile. "It's been a while, old man."

"Not for me... but for you? Indeed, it has," Kami replied, strolling closer with an ease that belied the seriousness of the moment. "I see you've grown more contemplative and carefree in your old age."

Kūga chuckled, wiping away the remnants of his melancholy. "You're not here to tease me about getting older, are you? Talking about age, fossils are probably children compared to you"

Kami laughed then for a few seconds, His expression softened. "Actually, I've come to say to you that both your parents—your old life and your new—are watching over you. They are in good terms with each other, bestest of friends to be exact. While your new mother was sorry for not being with you even for a little bit, she's come to terms, seeing how you're able to protect yourself."

The warmth in Kūga's heart expanded, and he felt a swell of gratitude. "Thank you, old-man. It means a lot to hear that. Seeing you like this, I just want to say that thankfulness isn't enough."

"It is, I can tell you're happy with your new life," Kami's smile returned, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "Now that you're strong and surrounded by such capable friends, don't forget to have some fun too, will you? Life isn't all about power and responsibility."

Kūga nodded, a genuine smile brightening his face. "I won't forget. But I have to keep moving forward. I can't help but feel like there are others out there like me, and I need to find them."

"Maybe? I'm not here to tell you, that's your journey, so go and make your mark on the world," Kami said, stepping back into the shadows of the trees. "I'll be watching."

As the old man faded from view, Kūga took a moment to absorb the silence surrounding him. The graves, the memories, and Kami's words ignited a resolve within him. He had his parents' legacy to uphold, and he would do so by continuing his journey.

'Alright...'

Rising to his feet, Kūga cast one last look at the graves and the home he once knew.

A sense of closure washed over him, intertwining with hope for the future. He took a deep breath, savoring the moment, before closing his eyes and concentrating.

With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a powerful barrier that enveloped the house.

The shimmering energy pulsed with Aether, creating an illusion that would hide the home from any unwanted eyes.

Anyone with negative intentions would find only an empty field, lost in the wildflowers.

Satisfied, he stepped back, giving the house one last look before turning away.

.

As he launched himself into the sky, the wind whipped through his hair, and the world below became a tapestry of greens and browns, kissed by the warm sunlight.

He flew at a fast yet comfortable speed, reveling in the breathtaking scenery. The clouds drifted lazily, embracing the landscape in a warm, majestic view.

Kūga's mind wandered as he soared, contemplating the future. "I could really use a sword," he mused aloud, envisioning a blade capable of channeling his Aether energy. "What could be better than a sword made from Aether itself?" The thought lingered momentarily, but he quickly pushed it aside, choosing instead to embrace the joy of flying.

Arriving at his camp in the valley, he landed gracefully, taking a moment to soak in the familiar surroundings.

The site was a blend of memories and experiences, each corner echoing the laughter and camaraderie he had shared with Hashirama and Madara.

With a warm smile, he set to work, disposing the camp tools and reliving the moments that had shaped their bonds.

Once the place was clean, Kūga made his way toward the village. He was eager to surprise Hashirama and Madara with his decision to reside there permanently.

As he approached the thriving village, a sense of belonging washed over him.

"Hey, you two!" he called out as he spotted them.

Hashirama and Madara who were talking with people turned, surprised to see him standing there with a grin plastered on his face.

"Welcome back!" Hashirama exclaimed, and dismissed the people with a smile. "What's up?"

"I've decided to stay in the village from now on," Kūga stated, smiling as Madara nodded in approval.

"Good choice! Just get any land available," Hashirama replied enthusiastically, already imagining the possibilities. "But I'll miss our times at the camp."

Madara crossed his arms stoically but nodded his head, "Same for me, we started everything there."

"We can also go there anytime soon, " Kūga said, "Now, excuse me for a bit. I got some house to build."

Madara sighed while shaking his head, "Build a house... On your own? Well I guess, you have your weird powers, maybe you could do that."

"Okay, let me come with you!" Hashirama says enthusiastically.

.

It took a few minutes of searching but Kūga and Hashirama found a large piece of land near the Uchiha compound. "Perfect," Kūga muttered to himself.

Using his Aether abilities, he quickly erected huge, sturdy fences around the perimeter, reinforcing them with defensive barriers in every corner.

Once satisfied with the security, he began constructing a comfortable house, pouring his energy and creativity into the design.

The structure emerged modern yet welcoming, a perfect blend of style and functionality.

As the final touches were added, he stepped back, admiring his handiwork. The house stood tall and proud, and he couldn't help but feel a swell of pride.

Kūga could see Hashirama's eyes light up as he visited the new home. "This is incredible! I might need to take some design tips from you for our future houses," he remarked, his excitement palpable.

"Who knew living in a house could be so luxurious?" Kūga joked, leaning against the doorframe. "After all those years camping and surviving, I think it's about time I enjoy a bit of comfort."

.

A Week Later

Kūga settled into his new home, the once foreign space now feeling like a sanctuary.

Mornings had become a ritual of sorts, each sunrise greeting him with the warmth of a cozy bed and the security of a roof over his head. Yet, as he stretched in the sunlight streaming through his window, he couldn't shake a peculiar feeling.

"Is it just me," he murmured to himself, "or is waking up with a ceiling above my head kind of… tingling my claustrophobia?" He chuckled, shaking his head. "I used to love the open sky, but I suppose this gives me a sense of security. Though, at this point, I feel like people might need more security from me... heh."

With a deep breath, he activated his senses, extending his awareness beyond the confines of his home. The familiar pulse of the village vibrated in his mind, and he quickly pinpointed Hashirama just outside the Senju compound, probably going to the village center. Grinning, he decided to go join him.

As he stepped outside, the sights and sounds of the bustling village greeted him. Market stalls lined the streets, vendors calling out to passersby, their goods displayed with pride. The laughter of children mingled with the chatter of adults, and Kūga felt a warmth swell in his chest. Their efforts were not in vain; this village was thriving.

Spotting Hashirama strolling through the market, Kūga waved. "Hey..." he called, the Senju leader turning with a bright smile.

"Kūga! Good to see you out and about," Hashirama replied, waving back. People around them bowed slightly in respect, he and Kūga nodded graciously, acknowledging them with a humble demeanor.

"Glad to see the village is flourishing. It's a sight to behold," Kūga remarked, taking in the atmosphere.

"Absolutely! We've worked hard for this," Hashirama replied, looking at the people.

"Yeah..."

After a moment's pause, Kūga added, "By the way, in a few days, I'm going on a solo journey for a while."

"Oh? That's not surprising." Hashirama asked, his expression shifting to curiosity. "How long?"

Before Kūga could respond, Madara approached, his aura commanding attention. "Hey, just saw you two... but I won't be long; I have a meeting to attend," he stated, glancing at Hashirama. "Aren't you supposed to be there as well?"

"Yeah yeah... Kūga was just telling me he's going on a journey on his own in a few days," Hashirama explained.

Madara raised an eyebrow, turning his attention to Kūga. "That's interesting, how long?"

Kūga shrugged, "I'm not sure, but I think I'll be back within a year, if all goes well."

Hashirama and Madara exchanged surprised glances.

"A year?" Hashirama said, his tone a mix of disbelief and concern. "It'll be new not seeing you for that long."

Madara hn'ed but he nodded in agreement, "Whatever… but yeah, that's a long time."

"Well it's not that long, and..." Kūga smirked, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "You two better not get married while I'm gone! I don't want to miss the wedding!"

Madara shot back, "You're older than us, Kūga. Shouldn't you be the one getting married?"

Laughter erupted among them, easing the tension of the impending separation. "Touché," Kūga conceded, grinning.

With a brief nod, Madara excused himself, "I'll see you later.... we need to go" He look at Hashirama then turned, striding away with purpose.

Hashirama chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I guess I need to head to that meeting as well. Take care now."

"Sure sure..." Kūga smiled him, watching Hashirama walk away.

As he turned to head back to his home, the warm sun overhead, Kūga couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. This journey would mark a new chapter, one filled with the promise of discovery and growth.