In the Land of Hot Water, the chaos brought by the war had reached a boiling point. The repeated raids and unchecked violence by Kirigakure shinobi had pushed the nation's patience to its limit. One month ago, in a rare act of aggression, the Daimyō of the Land of Hot Water issued a bold decree: an open bounty system targeting all Kirigakure ninja operating within their borders.
Shanks had overheard the full details from the Tonika Village ninjas just the day before.
The rewards varied by rank:
Genin – 5,000 ryō
Chūnin – 30,000 ryō
Special Jōnin – 100,000 ryō
Jōnin – 300,000 to 500,000 ryō, depending on reputation
S-Rank Shinobi – Starting at 1 million ryō, with potential increases based on the threat level or strategic value of the target
It was a high-risk, high-reward system—and for Shanks, it was the perfect opportunity.
Not just for money.
For revenge.
Kirigakure had been one of the primary aggressors in the destruction of Uzushiogakure, the ancestral home of the Uzumaki Clan. Along with Kumogakure, they had orchestrated the downfall of his people, leaving the proud clan scattered, broken, and forced into hiding. Many were killed. Others, like Shanks and the survivors in his valley, lived in the shadows—always looking over their shoulders.
Now, Shanks had a chance to strike back. Every Kirigakure ninja he hunted would serve two purposes: vengeance for his fallen clan and survival for the ones still living.
There was no moral conflict in his heart—he would not kill civilians, and he would not target innocents. But any ninja flying the Kirigakure headband was fair game. He didn't need justification. Their actions in the war had written their names on his hit list.
And the bounty? That was simply the practical side of war. Each head he claimed would buy food, weapons, medicine, and security for the Uzumaki Clan.
This wasn't just personal. It was necessary.
Shanks tightened his grip on Gryphon and stared out toward the distant horizon. The Land of Hot Water awaited—and with it, his first step into the open world after years of waiting in the shadows.
The hunt was about to begin.
…
That night, every member of the Uzumaki Clan gathered around the large communal fire for dinner. It had become a cherished tradition—no matter how intense the training or how exhausting the day, they always came together to share their evening meal.
The warmth of food, laughter, and quiet conversation filled the valley, but beneath it all was a shared understanding: this night was different.
After everyone had finished eating, Shanks set down his bowl and rose to his feet. The firelight flickered across his face, casting his expression in a mix of calm resolve and quiet gravity.
"As I've already told you all a few days ago," he began, his voice steady, "tomorrow, I'll be leaving the valley for the Land of Hot Water."
No one reacted with surprise. They had known this moment was coming. Shanks had been preparing them for it for months—quietly, deliberately. They knew the mission, and they knew its importance.
Shanks nodded at their silence and continued.
"You all know the world outside is at war. The Second Shinobi World War has turned everything upside down. And lately, the situation near the Land of Hot Water has grown even more unstable. That region is no longer safe—not for civilians, not for shinobi, not for anyone."
He let his gaze move slowly across the group—from the young ninjas, to the women who had all endured so much.
"That's why I need to go. But while I'm gone, all of you must remain vigilant. The chaos of war can push unexpected people into strange places. There's a real chance that enemy ninjas—fugitives, deserters, or scouts—might pass through this valley. Some may even try to hide here, thinking this place is abandoned or unguarded."
His tone sharpened slightly.
"If that happens, I expect you all to be cautious. Don't get reckless. If you encounter anyone and you feel they're beyond your ability to handle, do not try to be heroes. Use the Human-to-Human Summoning Technique. Summon me immediately. That's why we developed it."
A long pause followed. The only sound was the soft crackle of the fire.
"I'm trusting you all to keep this home safe until I return. This valley is more than a hideout. It's where the rebirth of the Uzumaki Clan is happening. And that's worth protecting—no matter what."
With every child in the valley having mastered the Human-to-Human Summoning Technique, Shanks could finally leave with peace of mind. This safeguard was his final assurance—knowing that, if anything ever went wrong, they could call on him instantly.
The children nodded in unison after hearing his final instructions. Erza stepped forward and spoke with conviction, "While you're away, we'll make sure the valley stays safe. You can count on us."
Shanks gave a small nod of approval. She had grown so much.
Just as he had calculated two years ago, every child had reached the level he envisioned. Erza now stood at Jōnin level, her strength making her more than capable of going toe-to-toe with Elite Jōnins. The other children had achieved Special Jōnin rank, each possessing advanced combat skills and solid battlefield awareness.
Shanks turned back to the group. "Tomorrow morning, after breakfast, I'll leave the valley," he announced. "While I'm away, Erza will be in charge. She'll make all decisions in my absence."
There were no objections. No hesitation. Erza, the second most powerful among them, had long acted as his right hand. Her leadership was not only respected—it was expected. Everyone trusted her.
After that, the meeting dissolved. One by one, the clan members returned to their respective caves. Shanks did the same.
As always, before bed, he entered his inner world and sparred with the manifestation of the Red-Haired Emperor Shanks. They fought five intense rounds. It had become a nightly ritual: a way to measure progress, sharpen instincts, and learn.
Once the final bout ended, he let himself rest.
––––
The next morning arrived.
True to his word, Shanks had breakfast with the entire clan. The meal was quiet, solemn. Not because of doubt—but because of the weight of what this departure meant. After three years of living, training, and surviving together in secrecy, this was the first major separation.
But no one cried. No one clung. They had all known this day would come. And they understood it was necessary.
After a final nod to Erza and a long look at the valley behind him, Shanks stepped beyond the treeline—and disappeared into the forest, walking toward the Land of Hot Water that awaited him.
He didn't look back.
Because he didn't need to.
----
Want to get daily updates and read chapters on a daily basis? Then join my Patreon!
Patreon Link: https://[email protected]/Hkj822
Join Discord Link: https://discord.gg/P3eXz2Er