NOVEL NEXT Chapter 6: Chapter 6: Shadows in the Dark
The night in Konoha was peaceful, but Ethan could feel a strange tension in the air. The system's warning from earlier echoed in his mind.
> "A shadow approaches. Be prepared for unforeseen challenges."
Ethan wasn't one to ignore such alerts. He decided to stay vigilant, perched on the roof of a building overlooking the village. The moon cast a silver glow over the streets, but something in the shadows stirred.
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An Unexpected Encounter
As Ethan scanned the area, a sudden movement caught his attention. A dark figure darted between the rooftops, moving with the agility of a ninja. Ethan's instincts kicked in.
"System, identify."
> "Target is an unidentified rogue ninja. Threat level: Moderate. Recommend interception."
Without hesitation, Ethan followed the figure. His body moved almost on autopilot, the system enhancing his reflexes and agility. The chase led him to the outskirts of the village, near the forest.
The figure stopped, turning to face Ethan. It was a masked ninja clad in dark robes, their presence radiating hostility.
"So, you're the outsider everyone's talking about," the ninja said, their voice low and gravelly.
"And you're the intruder who shouldn't be here," Ethan replied, unsheathing his energy-infused sword.
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The Battle in the Forest
The rogue ninja lunged at Ethan, their kunai gleaming under the moonlight. Ethan parried the attack with ease, his sword humming with energy.
"System, analyze combat patterns," Ethan commanded.
> "Analyzing... Opponent relies on speed and close-quarters combat. Suggest using ranged attacks and feints to counter."
Taking the advice, Ethan used a burst of chakra to propel himself backward, creating distance. He then channeled energy into his sword, unleashing a wave of light that forced the rogue ninja to dodge.
"You're not bad," the ninja said, regaining their footing. "But let's see how you handle this!"
The ninja performed a series of hand signs, summoning a shadowy clone. Ethan now faced two opponents.
"Great," Ethan muttered. "System, any ideas?"
> "Focus on the original. Shadow clone will dissipate upon a decisive strike."
Ethan grinned. "Got it."
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A Tactical Victory
Ethan feigned attacking the clone, drawing its attention while keeping an eye on the original ninja. With a sudden pivot, he redirected his attack, landing a clean strike on the real opponent.
The clone vanished instantly, and the masked ninja stumbled, clutching their side.
"Who sent you?" Ethan demanded, holding his sword to their throat.
The ninja chuckled weakly. "You'll find out soon enough, traveler. But know this—Konoha isn't safe for you."
Before Ethan could press further, the ninja bit down on something—a cyanide pill. Their body went limp, and a dark mist began to envelop them, erasing any trace of their existence.
"Damn it," Ethan cursed.
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A Warning to the Hokage
The next morning, Ethan reported the incident to Kakashi, the Sixth Hokage. Kakashi listened intently, his face serious.
"This isn't the first time we've had rogue ninja trying to infiltrate the village," Kakashi said. "But the fact that they targeted you specifically is concerning."
Ethan nodded. "They knew who I was. It's clear they're watching me."
"I'll increase security around the village," Kakashi said. "But you should remain cautious. Whoever is behind this won't stop here."
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Strengthening Bonds
After the meeting, Ethan joined Hinata and Ino at the training grounds. The two were sparring, their movements graceful and precise.
"You're late," Ino teased as Ethan approached.
"Had some business with the Hokage," Ethan replied, picking up a training kunai.
Hinata looked worried. "Is everything alright?"
"Just some minor trouble," Ethan said, giving her a reassuring smile. "Nothing I can't handle."
The system chimed in as Ethan joined the sparring session.
> "Hinata's affection level: 45%. Ino's affection level: 25%. Progress toward forming bonds continues."
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A Glimpse of the Future
As the day ended, Ethan found himself standing at the edge of the village, staring into the horizon. The rogue ninja's words haunted him.
"System, what's next?" he asked.
> "Prepare for greater challenges. The multiverse is vast, and your journey has only begun."
Ethan clenched his fists. He had come this far, and he wasn't about to back down. The shadows might be closing in, but he was determined to face whatever came his way.
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End of Chapter 6