Chapter 4

-Konan POV-

One particularly dreary afternoon, as we took a break from our training, I found myself lost in thought. The rain pattered against the window, the sound a soothing backdrop to my tumultuous thoughts.

It's like a dream, the warmth of the fireplace, the smell of food, the feeling of companionship. But as the days go by, it becomes more real, more alive.

And the cause for all my thoughts, that thinks it wasn't real, is Haruto. He's been here for me, guiding me, protecting me, and teaching me. He's become more than just a stranger. He's my... friend.

The fire crackles, sending a warmth that spreads through the room, wrapping around us like a warm blanket. It's been a few months since we met, and in that time, we've turned this abandoned house into a shelter, no into a home. A place of warmth and comfort amidst the never-ending rain, a place where you can go home to after a long day of training.

I watch Haruto as he sits by the fire, his eyes closed as he tries to sense his chakra. His dedication to learning and protecting us is something I've never seen before. In this world where everyone is fighting for survival, he's different. He brings hope and light to me, even in the darkest moments.

As the rain continues outside, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Our training has become a routine, a source of strength in this otherwise desolate place. I owe so much to him, not just for the food and shelter, but for the hope he's given me. Haruto's optimism is contagious, and it's helped me to see beyond the pain of my past and the bleakness of our present.

Today, we've decided to venture out of the village, to explore the surrounding areas and find more resources. We've grown stronger together. The rain and storm has become a part of us, a symbol of the trials we've overcome.

As we walk, I can't help but feel a little nervous. The world outside the village is vast and unknown, filled with potential dangers. But with Haruto by my side, I feel a strange sense of safety. His confidence and optimism are infectious.

We move through the dense forest, the rain pattering on the leaves above us. Ame runs ahead, her little paws splashing in the puddles. She's grown so much since we found her, and she's become a part of our little family.

I found Ame on the way here, she was all alone, shivering under the rain. I didn't know what to do, but when I saw her, something in me just... changed. I had to protect her. And now, she's the little spark of joy in this gloomy place.

Even though it's raining, but Ame is not afraid of it, she's more curious. She's like a little warrior, exploring the unknown. She's grown so much, from that tiny kitten to a brave kitten. It's like she's our little mascot, bringing us luck and joy.

The trees around us whisper secrets to each other, their leaves rustling in the breeze. I look up, feeling the droplets of rain on my face. It's refreshing, rejuvenating. Despite the harshness of the world, there's beauty in the simplicity of nature.

"What are you thinking about?" Haruto asks, noticing my distant gaze.

I look at him, my heart swelling with a warmth that's not from the fire. "Just about how much has changed," I reply.

The forest is alive with the sound of the rain, a constant reminder of the world's relentlessness. Yet, in the midst of it all, there's a serenity that I've come to cherish. It's as if the rain is a barrier, keeping the outside world at bay, leaving us with just each other.

As we walk, I find myself lost in the rhythm of the rain and the sound of Ame purrs. She's grown so much since i found her, her curiosity and bravery a reflection of the bond we've built in this place. Haruto influence on her is clear; his kindness and protection have turned her into a little warrior. A brave kitten warrior.

I look at him, his eyes squinted against the rain, his hand resting gently on the hilt of the knife. He's become more than just a guide in this world for me, he's a beacon of hope in the storm. His unyielding spirit and willingness to learn alongside me have made the harsh reality of the Land of Rain more bearable.

They said, the world is unfair, yet the world give me something that I need the most, a friend, a home, a purpose.

"Haruto," I call out to him, my voice a gentle whisper amidst the rain.

"Yes?" Haruto asks, turning to face me, his eyes filled with concern.

"Please tell the world that, I am grateful for what I have been given," I whispered to the rain, my eyes never leaving Haruto. His presence had brought a warmth to my heart that I had long forgotten.

Haruto chuckle, understanding my words without me saying much. "You don't need to tell the world, just remember it in your heart," he said, "Because I know, and Ame does too."

"And... who do you think I am? A messenger of world?" Haruto joked, his voice carrying over the sound of the rain.

I just give him a smile, his jokes never failed to make me smile. But in my heart, It was never a joke, he is... my world.

"Let's go." He said with smile adorned his face.

"Okay" I'm nodding my head and following behind.

-Konan POV end-

-3rd POV-

The scene shifts abruptly, the rain-soaked woods of the Land of Rain giving way to the bustling village of Konoha. Inside the Hokage's office, the air was thick with tension as two seasoned shinobi, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, and Danzo Shimura. Their stern faces were etched with the weight of their impending decision.

"The reports are in, Hiruzen," Danzo said, his voice as cold as the steel in his gaze. "Both Sunagakure and Iwagakure are amassing their forces on the border of the Land of Rain."

Hiruzen sighed, his eyes weary from the countless hours of strategizing and negotiating. "It seems our peace talks have fallen on deaf ears," he murmured, leaning back in his chair.

"It was inevitable," Danzo replied, his voice devoid of emotion. "We've always known that peace is just an illusion in the shinobi world."

Hiruzen sharp glance at Danzo, "If only your operation didn't fail, then this war wouldn't need to happen."

Danzo's expression didn't change, "Even if it weren't for me, this war would still happen. They seek power, they are hungry for our land. We need to be prepared."

Hiruzen rubbed his temples, the weight of his decision palpable. "I understand your concerns, Danzo, but we must try all peaceful options before resorting to war," he said firmly. "The lives of our people are at stake."

Danzo eyes narrowed, a hint of frustration in his voice. "War is a beast that doesn't care for diplomacy. We must strike first and strike hard, or we will be the ones to suffer, how do you think our ninja lives that died in skirmish felt?"

Hiruzen leaned forward, his eyes steely. "Their sacrifices will not be in vain," he said firmly. "We will find a way to prevent this war, to protect the village and its people."

Danzo expression softened slightly, his gaze flickering to the window, where the rain fell steadily. "You're a good man, Hiruzen," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "But sometimes, the path of peace is not the path that leads to survival."

The room was silent for a moment, before there's a knock at the door. It was a ninja, he look at Danzo, "Danzo-sama" he greet him and then to Hiruzen, "Hokage-sama, a message from the Land of Rain, it's from our squad."

Danzo ears perked up, the tension in the room thickened. "Speak," he ordered.

The ninja, handed over a scroll. "It's from one of our squads in the Land of Rain. He reports that, they being attacked by sunagakure ninja, and requesting immediate assistance."

Hiruzen gaze sharpened as he took the scroll. Danzo, on the other hand, remained stoic, his eyes never leaving the Hokage. "It seems the situation has escalated."

The Third Hokage unfurled the scroll, his face a mask of concentration as he read the contents. When he was done, he looked up at Danzo, his eyes filled with a mix of anger and sadness. "Your fears have come to pass, Danzo," he said in a tired voice. "Pass a message to our squad, hold their position if they can, and wait for the instructions." Hiruzen glance to the empty side of Danzo. "I will not have our village start a war based on fear and suspicion."

An anbu appears beside Danzo, kneeled, "Hokage-sama." Hiruzen said to the anbu, "Gather every Jonin and Chunin, we need to prepare for the worst." The anbu nodded and disappeared.

The room was silent. Danzo mind raced, contemplating his next move. He knew that his rival's approach was different, but he couldn't help feeling that his own methods were the only way to ensure the village's survival. "Hiruzen," he began, his voice calm but firm, "Our village is like a lion surrounded by hyenas. If we don't show our teeth, we'll be torn apart."

Hiruzen sighed heavily, his eyes never leaving the scroll. "I understand your concerns, Danzo, but we cannot become what we fear. We must stand for peace and unity, even in the face of aggression." He looked up, meeting Danzo gaze. "We will respond, but we will not be the aggressors."

Danzo jaw clenched, his fists tightening. "I will do what is necessary to ensure our village's survival," he said, his voice low and menacing. "The world is not as kind as you wish it to be, Hiruzen. Sometimes, we must embrace the shadows to protect the light."

Hiruzen eyes narrowed. "If we lose our way, what is the point of protecting it?" He paused, his gaze softening. "Your methods are extreme, Danzo. Remember, we are shinobi of the Leaf. We are bound by the Will of Fire to safeguard our people's happiness, not just their lives."

Danzo snorted in response to Hiruzen words, his gaze unwavering. "The Will of Fire is a comforting fairy tale, but it doesn't prepare us for the harsh realities of war. We are shinobi, not some fools with ideology. We must be willing to get our hands dirty to ensure our village's prosperity." Then Danzo leaving the office with a sense of urgency, leaving a contemplative Third Hokage behind.

-3rd POV end-

I sense a shift in the air, a tension that wasn't there before. The rain outside our home had been a constant companion, but now it seems almost like a metaphor for the unspoken battles being waged within the walls of power. As I sit by the warmth of the fire, Ame curled up in my lap, I can't help but think if the wars will affect us here.

This bad premonition, somehow like the plot thicken.

Could it be, I will face some Trauma plot or something?

The rain outside had always been a comforting sound, a sound that had accompanied our evenings of laughter and camaraderie. But tonight, it seemed to whisper of shadows and uncertainties. I looked over at Konan, her eyes lost in the flickering dance of the fire. She had become more than just an anime character that I watched, but the new purpose that I have in this harsh reality. Her strength and resolve, despite our dire circumstances, inspired me to push beyond my limits.

We had turned the abandoned house into a sanctuary of sorts, a place where we could train, rest, and find moments of peace amidst the chaos that was the shinobi world. The scent of the earthy plants we had brought in mingled with the smoky warmth of the fireplace, creating a soothing atmosphere that belied the tension we both felt deep within. Ame, our little kitten, had grown into a graceful cat, her eyes reflecting the flames as she gazed at us with curiosity.

I can't lose to some plot, I think to myself, stroking Ame's soft fur. I have to be strong for her, for us. The weight of our situation is palpable, but we refuse to let it crush us. Instead, we channel it into our training, pushing ourselves harder each day.

To counter whatever troubles that I will face, I decide to honing my newfound powers too. The inventory is still a mystery to me, but it's a tool that could give me a boost. I spend hours each day, meditating, training and experimenting, trying to understand its full potential. I visualize the items in my mind, willing them to appear in my hand, and practice switching between them with lightning speed.

Even trying to make the item appear in long range, but it doesn't work, fortunately it's still work in short range, about five to ten meters. It's like the Inventory has a range limit or something. I sigh in frustration, tossing the knife back into my inventory. Maybe I need to find a way to expand its capabilities. I look over at Konan, who is busy with her own training. Her dedication fuels my own, and I resolve to master this strange gift I've been given.

---|||---

As the days turn into weeks, we become more adept at our skills. The storms outside raging and trying to tear down our home, our sanctuary, but within these walls, we find peace in our routine. The smell of simmering stew fills the air, a comforting aroma that grounds us in the present. Ame has grown more curious, often venturing outside to explore the immediate surroundings before returning to the warmth of the house. Her independence reminds us that we too are growing, adapting to this world that we've been thrust into.

"Haruto, want to cut your hair?" Konan's voice cut through my thoughts, holding a pair of rusty scissors she found in one of our scavenging trips. I nodded, feeling the strands cling to my face. It had grown longer than I liked in the months we've been here. She approached me with a gentle smile, the flickering firelight playing on her features. The warmth from the flames bathed the room in a soft glow, casting shadows that danced on the walls of our makeshift home.

Well, for months or year? I don't have a good sense of time here. If I not seen myself on the mirror, I'm not aware with my appearance.

I have a short and petite frame, with my glistering silver hair and blue eyes. My skin is fair like a snow.

Well... Snow was colourless though.

"...."

With a deep breath, I leaned back and closed my eyes, letting the warmth of the fire and the sound of the rain, soothe my weary mind and of course, letting Konan cut my hair. Her gentle touch was a stark contrast to the harshness of the world outside. As the scissors snipped away the overgrown strands, I felt a sense of release, as if shedding a part of the old me and embracing the new life I had found here. The rusty scissor were surprisingly sharp, and she worked with a precision that belied her lack of experience. When she was done, I felt lighter, both in spirit and appearance.

Konan stepped back, her eyes sparkling with pride in her handiwork. "There," she said, handing me a small handheld mirror we had found. "What do you think?"

Looking at my reflection, I couldn't help but smile. The new haircut framed my face, I can't control myself to said, "I'm handsome, right?"

Konan laughs lightly, "You're always handsome, Haruto," she said, her cheeks flushing slightly. The intimacy of the moment was not lost on me, and I felt my heart skip a beat.

Actually, I just teasing her, I don't know she will bluntly said that.

Her words lingered in the air, and for a moment, the only sound was the pitter-patter of the rain. I felt a warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the fire. Our eyes met, and I knew that she saw the change in me. It wasn't just the hair; it was the determination that had grown within me, the resolve to protect what we had built here.

"Thank you, Konan," I said, setting the mirror aside. "We should get some rest."

We turned in for the night, the comfort of our shared futon a testament to the trust we had built. The rain pattered on the roof, a rhythmic lullaby that had become all too familiar. I lay there, staring at the ceiling, my thoughts racing. The whispers of the rain grew louder, and I couldn't shake the feeling that the storm outside was a precursor to something much larger, something that would challenge us in ways we couldn't even begin to imagine.

Damn plot.

---|||---

The next morning, we woke to the sound of Ame's meowing. The sound of the rain was like our bgm, it's always there to accompany us. We ate breakfast in companionable silence, the warmth of the food and the familiar routine grounding us in the present. After cleaning up, we decided to venture out again, i need to gather new information about the surrounding area.

Hopefully there's none.

But, the plot doesn't care about my hope.

As we stepped out into the rain, Ame at our heels, we could feel the tension in the air had thickened. The once familiar village and rainforest now held an eerie quality, as if it were holding its breath, waiting for something to happen.

"...."

I familiar with this kind of plot, well played plot, but you know, I'm something of an author myself.

So, think about new plot again or something.

"...."

"Konan, let's go back inside." The urgency in my voice didn't escape her. She nodded, and we retreated into our little sanctuary. The rain grew heavier, the droplets sounding like a warning drum on the roof. We shared a look, both knowing that something was off.

---|||---

The house was suddenly too quiet, the silence only broken by the rain and Ame's purring. We discussed our next move, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on us. Our training had made us stronger, but we were still just two individuals in a vast, unpredictable world.

And we not even train on taijutsu, but fortunately we practiced throwing weapons, so it's give us some relief for the moment.

"Haruto... Do you hear that?" Konan's voice was low, her eyes focused on the door.

"Don't worry, it's likely far from us," I assured her, trying to keep my voice steady. We both knew that the sound of explosion was not natural in this land of perpetual rain. Yet, we couldn't ignore the tremor that followed, rattling the house and our hearts.

Konan moved to the window, peering through a crack in the wooden panels. Her eyes widened, and she gasped. "There's...there's something coming," she murmured, her hand gripping the window frame tightly.

I joined her, looking through the narrow gap. The rain had become a curtain, obscuring the view, but through the veil of water, I could make out dark shapes approaching. They moved swiftly. Too swiftly. My heart raced, and I grabbed my weapons, my mind racing through the combat scenarios we had practiced.

But whatever scenarios I have, I don't want to risk our life like that.

I reached to Konan's side, placing a hand on her shoulder. "We need to be quiet and hope they're not sense us," I whispered. Her eyes searched mine, seeking reassurance in the face of the unknown. I gave her a nod, trying to project confidence despite the fear that coiled in my stomach, I mean heart. The shapes grew closer, the thunder of their footsteps echoing through the village streets like a war drum. We could hear the clink of metal, the sound of shurikens being thrown, and the occasional shout of a ninja in combat.

We quietly retreated from the window, the shadows of the approaching figures growing larger with each step they took. The house creaked under the weight of the rain, and I couldn't help but feel like it was also bearing the weight of our fear. Ame sensed the tension and stayed close to us, her eyes wide and alert.

"We need to hide," I murmured, my mind racing. "The cellar."

Really? I even just found out that this house has a cellar a few weeks ago.

What a coincidence, huh? very convincing.

"...."

We moved swiftly, descending the creaky stairs into the damp, earthy space beneath the house. Ame followed closely, her eyes reflecting our anxiety. The footsteps grew louder, the storm's masking the intruders' approach. We huddled together, our breaths shallow, listening as the sounds of battle grew closer.

The door to the cellar groaned shut, and we waited in the darkness, the only light coming from a crack in the ceiling. Rainwater trickled down, creating a rhythmic pattern that seemed to count down to our fate. I clutched my weapons tightly, my heart pounding in my chest.

"We're safe here," I whispered to Konan, trying to reassure her. "We've gone unnoticed so far."

But the plot didn't care about our comfort.

The floorboards above us creaked, and the sound of footsteps grew clearer. They were in the house. I could feel the tension in the air thicken as we held our breaths, willing the intruders to pass us by. Ame's eyes gleamed in the dim light, her body tense and ready to pounce at the first sign of danger.

What a brave little warrior.

The moments ticked by like a metronome, each one echoing the rhythm of our racing hearts. The rain above seemed to amplify the sound of our breaths, creating a symphony of fear that resonated through the small, damp space. Above us, the footsteps grew louder, more deliberate.

"Konan, hold your breath," I whispered urgently, as the footsteps grew so close, they seemed to be just outside the cellar door. I looked out into my inventory, I'm retrieving my leaves that I store from chapter 1, I mean when I was in the cave, I try to fill this cellar with full of leaves, hoping that it would muffle our presence. The leaves rustled softly as we held our breaths, the sound seemingly magnified in the quiet space.

Above us, the door to the cellar was pushed open, and a beam of light pierced the darkness. We could make out the silhouettes of two figures, their footsteps heavy with purpose. They scanned the room, their eyes adjusting to the cellar. One of them spoke in a gruff voice, their words unintelligible through the leaves. A cold sweat broke out on my forehead, and I could feel Konan's hand tremble in mine.

But I hold her hand tighter, trying to convey my calmness to her.

The intruders took a step down, their boots echoing on the wooden stairs. My heart felt like it would burst from my chest, but I focused on the task at hand. The leaves were our shield now, our only hope to stay hidden.

I hold Konan hand tightly, feeling her pulse race beneath my fingertips. We both knew the risks of being discovered, especially with Ame's unpredictable nature. The cat stared up at us, seemingly understanding the gravity of the situation, her eyes gleaming with intelligence.

It's seems, Ame was understand our situation. Clever, very clever, indeed.

The footsteps grew closer, and my heart threatened to betray us with its loud thumps. The leaves held firm around us, creating a natural barrier. Rainwater dripped from the ceiling, mixing with the sweat on my brow, stinging my eyes. One of the figures took another step down, he wanted to open the cellar completely, but stopped by a sudden, deafening explosion that shook the very foundation of the house. The cellar trembled, and dust rained down from the ceiling.

Above, the shadows of the two figures grew frantic, their voices rising. The sound of their boots retreating up the stairs was music to our ears. The door slammed shut. It was clear that the battle still raged on outside, but for the moment, we were safe.

But, is it done?