After Naru and her group arrived at the bustling port, the air was filled with the sound of cheering, laughter, and the clinking of ships moored by the shore. The people of Uzu, from all walks of life, gathered to welcome their Uzukage and her loyal companions back. The mermaids, their bright tails glistening in the sunlight, waved frantically, signaling to the docked ships. As Naru stepped onto the solid ground of her homeland, a wave of relief washed over her.
Home sweet home.
Her companions were greeted with similar excitement, each receiving their own displays of affection. Yuzu, with her swift sword skills and deep connection to the island, was given a hearty cheer, her strength admired by all. Yue, whose medical skills had saved countless lives, was met with a mix of gratitude and warmth. Nikolas, always so cool-headed and sharp in his Haki training, was given nods of respect. And Barlow, though always a man of few words, was warmly welcomed, his martial expertise a source of pride for all who knew him.
The crowd's eyes sparkled as they called out to Naru and her generals, their voices filled with affection and admiration.
"Naru-Sama, welcome back!" A young man shouted from the crowd, waving enthusiastically.
"Miss Yuzu, we have a lot of fresh oranges and lemons for you!" Another voice echoed from the market stalls nearby, and the smell of citrus filled the air.
"Miss Yue! Will today be the day you smile at me?!" someone teased from the crowd, to which Yue only smiled faintly, her usual cool demeanor softening under the warmth of the greetings.
"Kyaa! Sir Nikolas looks as handsome as always! So dashing!" A giggling girl exclaimed, her face flushed with excitement as she caught sight of him.
"Barlow-San, let's have a drink later!" A call rang out from the men, who eagerly looked forward to sharing a drink with the formidable warrior.
Amidst the cheers, a small figure suddenly emerged through the crowd. A little redhead girl, no older than twelve, darted forward, her bright red hair bouncing with every step. Her eyes, full of excitement, landed on one person in particular.
"Dad!" the little girl exclaimed, her voice high with joy as she leapt into her father's arms.
Barlow, usually stern and reserved, softened immediately. His strong arms enveloped her, and for a brief moment, his usually hardened face showed a rare, gentle smile. "Kanna," he murmured, hugging her tightly. "Be careful."
Kanna, with her brilliant red hair that reminded everyone of the island's fiery sunsets, was the pride and joy of Barlow's life. She had inherited her father's fierce determination and was already known for her spirited nature, despite her young age. Her bright green eyes twinkled with curiosity as she looked up at Naru and the others.
"Did you all have a good trip?" Kanna asked with an expectant look.
Naru, always the caring older sister type, leaned down to ruffle Kanna's hair. "We did, Kanna. It's good to see you again. How's everything going at home?"
Kanna beamed, a proud little puff of air escaping her lips. "Everything's fine! I helped make sure the goats were fed today, and the chickens are laying eggs like they should be!"
Nikolas chuckled, giving Kanna a knowing look. "Always the little helper, huh? You're growing up so fast."
Kanna's face lit up with excitement at the attention, but before she could say anything more, her father, Barlow, spoke up, his voice firm but filled with affection. "Alright, Kanna, enough of the questions for now. You'll have plenty of time to catch up later. Let's get home first."
The little girl's eyes sparkled with anticipation as she nodded, but not before giving Naru a quick glance. "Naru-Sama, you must tell me all about your adventures! I want to be as strong as you one day!" she declared, her words full of childish bravado.
Naru chuckled softly, her heart warmed by the child's enthusiasm. "We'll see, Kanna," she replied, a playful glint in her eye. "I have no doubt you'll be a great warrior, just like your father."
With that, the group made their way toward the heart of the town. The streets were alive with people celebrating the return of their Uzukage and her companions. The local children ran along the sides of the group, shouting greetings and waving, while the elders nodded with quiet respect. It was clear that Naru and her generals had earned the trust and love of their people, a testament to all the sacrifices they had made together.
Kanna, still holding tight to her father, walked proudly beside them. As they reached their homes, the day seemed to stretch out with possibilities. The island was at peace, its people safe under the leadership of the Uzukage. For Naru and her companions, it was another day of ensuring that peace, but for Kanna and the other children, it was a time to dream of the future and to follow in the footsteps of the warriors who had protected their home.
As the sun began to set over the horizon, casting long shadows over the land, the town of Namikaze became a tranquil scene, with the Old Tree standing proud in the distance. The people of Uzu returned to their daily lives, content and at ease, knowing that the island and its rulers would protect them from whatever may come. And in that moment, Naru, Yuzu, Yue, Nikolas, and Barlow—each one of them silently reaffirmed their bond with the people and with each other.
It was more than just a kingdom.
It was home.