Chapter 54: The Truth About Shura Fourth Hokage
The video begins with a conversation between Yashamaru and young Gaara playing on the screen.
"There is a type of medicine that can heal the wounds in one's heart," Yashamaru explained gently. "But that medicine is precious, and it can only be received from others… that is 'love.'"
Young Gaara's voice trembled as he asked, "Then! How can we get it?!"
A kind smile spread across Yashamaru's face. "I believe, Gaara-sama, that you've already received it. My sister, your mother, loved you deeply."
"Mother…" Gaara whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.
Temari and Kankuro, standing nearby, felt an overwhelming surge of guilt and sadness. It had been far too long since they had acknowledged this simple truth.
Yashamaru's words continued, "Suna Shukaku is naturally a destructive force. But you were born with an 'absolute defense' to protect you. I believe this defense is none other than your mother's will—her love."
The video showed Garuru's love transformed into sand, eternally safeguarding her son. Yashamaru concluded softly, "Even though my sister passed away, she still wishes to protect you, Gaara-sama."
A bright tear shimmered in the sunlight as it dropped onto the sand, followed by another, and another.
The scene depicted dark streaks forming in the sand as Gaara's protective barrier of sand shielded his face, much like a mother shielding her child from harm. Yashamaru's voice echoed, "Even in death, my sister wants nothing but to ensure Gaara-sama is safe."
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This heartfelt moment sent ripples of emotion through everyone who witnessed the video. The confession of the Fourth Kazekage, the unwavering love of Garuru, and the tears of Gaara touched even the coldest hearts.
The ordinary citizens watching, as well as daimyos and samurai, were moved to tears.
The daimyo of the Fire Nation wiped his face with a handkerchief. "So touching... Yu, bring me another veil! This is too emotional."
Nearby attendants nodded sympathetically, though some seemed to mistake the ninjas for actors in a drama.
Among the civilians:
"How heartbreaking!" one exclaimed.
"He's so strong and admirable, but his past is just so tragic!" another added.
"Oh, and isn't he so handsome? Look at those piercing eyes!" a civilian gushed.
A passing ninja overheard their conversation and sighed in frustration. "Do you people even know what kind of responsibility being a Kage carries? It's not about looks!"
Yet, the admiration of Gaara and other ninjas continued to rise among the civilians.
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Back in the video:
The Fourth Kazekage, still under the effects of Impure World Reincarnation, murmured with regret, "Garuru… you are truly remarkable. Even in death, you continue to protect our child."
Tears filled his eyes as he added, "You gave him everything I took from him. You helped him reach this point, become Kazekage, and form bonds with friends and family…"
"Gaara…" he trailed off, his voice breaking.
Gaara's voice was hoarse as he responded, "Mother's love was the medicine that healed the wounds you inflicted on me, Father."
The Fourth Kazekage's expression softened, and he seemed overcome with guilt and pride at the same time.
Temari and Kankuro, who had rarely seen their father show any emotion, were stunned. This was not the cold, calculating man they remembered.
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As the image played out, a sealing charm appeared among the sand, marking the end of the Fourth Kazekage's reincarnated form. The quicksand gradually engulfed him.
From his perspective, Gaara's figure—illuminated by sunlight—slowly disappeared behind the encroaching sand. The Fourth Kazekage whispered one last message:
"You have surpassed all the Kazekages before you, Gaara. The village… I entrust it to you."
The scene faded to darkness.
The emotional weight of this moment left everyone silent. The acknowledgment of Gaara by his mother, Yashamaru, and even his father was overwhelming.
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Naruto's voice broke the silence.
"It's so amazing, I say," Naruto sniffed loudly, his tears and snot mingling together. "Your mom loved you so much, your uncle didn't hate you, and even your dad is proud of you now! That's incredible, I say!"
Naruto beamed at Gaara. "You're such a capable person! You've already become an amazing Kazekage!"
Sasuke, standing nearby, rolled his eyes. "Stop crying already, Naruto. You're making a bigger scene than Gaara!"
"Right?!" Sakura chimed in, agreeing with Sasuke.
Gaara's voice was barely audible as he muttered, "Thank you…"
"Why are you being so polite?" Naruto grinned, patting Gaara on the shoulder. "We're friends, right? And one day, I'm gonna become Hokage too! I'll make even the Fourth Hokage recognize me as the greatest Hokage ever!"
Shikamaru sighed from the sidelines. "Naruto, I get that you admire the Fourth Hokage, but he's been gone for a long time—"
Before Shikamaru could finish, the screen, which had gone dark, lit up again, silencing everyone.
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The sudden resurgence of sound and light brought everyone's attention back to the image.
The tension in the air was palpable as the screen prepared to reveal yet another revelation about the legendary Fourth Hokage.
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This chapter provided a vivid portrayal of the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Gaara, once consumed by loneliness and rage, stood as a testament to the healing that comes from understanding and acceptance. His journey from a feared jinchūriki to a revered Kazekage served as an inspiration to everyone watching.
With the truth about his mother, Yashamaru, and even his father now laid bare, Gaara's heart finally seemed at peace.
Naruto's declaration of friendship and his determination to become Hokage also underscored the bonds that held the ninja world together.
Even in a world filled with conflict and loss, these moments of connection reminded everyone of the hope that could guide them toward a brighter future.
The chapter ended with anticipation, as the screen promised more revelations to come.
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