Chapter 35: The Dragon Guardians and the Price of Balance

As the tremors from Godzilla's departure settled and the island regained its calm, Black Zetsu remained motionless, as always, his gaze fixed on the group. They had witnessed the majestic beast and felt its profound impact on the island's chakra flow, but there was more to this place than they had yet realized.

Naruto, still in awe of the gargantuan creature, turned to Black Zetsu with a renewed sense of curiosity. "So, Godzilla is like... the island's heart, right? But is there more to this place? I mean, it's not just about the Tailed Beasts and the animals, right?"

Black Zetsu's voice, low and calculated, broke through the stillness. "There's much more, Naruto. Godzilla and King Kong may protect the creatures, but there are other beings who shape and maintain the land itself."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean? Who else is out here?"

"The Ten Dragon Gods," Black Zetsu replied, his tone shifting to something a bit more reverent. "These dragons are the true architects of the island. They were created to shape the very landscape, ensuring that every terrain—every forest, mountain, and river—exists in harmony with the flow of chakra. They ensure the land remains stable and balanced."

The group exchanged glances. Dragons, gods, architects of the land—it all felt like something out of a fairy tale, yet there was an undeniable weight in Black Zetsu's voice.

"Dragons?" Sakura asked, her voice laced with wonder. "Are they like the animals we saw? Summoning beasts?"

"Not quite," Black Zetsu responded, shaking his head. "They are not simply beasts to be summoned. They are the creators of the land. They breathe life into the earth and the elements, shaping the mountains, forests, and even the rivers. Each one has a domain, a region of the island that they watch over and protect."

Naruto's mind raced, picturing colossal dragons flying across the sky, weaving through mountains and valleys, breathing life into the world around them. "So these dragons are... like gods, controlling the island's balance?"

Black Zetsu gave a subtle nod. "Yes. And they protect their respective regions with a power unlike any other. Their role is just as crucial as that of Godzilla and King Kong, but the dragons ensure the physical stability of the island."

Sasuke, his arms crossed, frowned slightly, deep in thought. "So, the dragons are responsible for the land's structure... but why haven't we seen them yet?"

Black Zetsu's gaze grew darker, his expression unreadable. "The dragons are rarely seen by outsiders. Their presence is tied to the land's harmony, and they only emerge when the balance is threatened. You could say they are the ultimate guardians of the island."

Naruto let out a whistle. "That sounds insane... but amazing. It's like the entire island is alive with energy."

Sakura smiled at the thought. "It's beautiful. But... if the dragons are so important, why don't we see them more often?"

"The Ten Dragons do not need to be visible to maintain their power," Black Zetsu explained. "They are an integral part of the island's natural rhythm. Each dragon's power is woven into the landscape they protect. They shape the land, making sure it stays perfect. Godzilla and King Kong watch over the creatures and balance the chakra flow, but the dragons make sure the island's physical form stays intact."

Naruto's mind was whirring with excitement as he absorbed the new information. "So we're not just dealing with one or two powerful beings... this island is full of them!"

"Yes," Black Zetsu confirmed. "But I must add one more thing." He paused, a strange tension in his voice. "Godzilla, despite his immense strength, has far more chakra than even Kaguya can handle. His energy is so overwhelming that if Kaguya tried to absorb all of it, she would not survive. It is simply too much."

Naruto and Sasuke exchanged uneasy glances. They had already seen the power of Godzilla firsthand, but hearing that even Kaguya couldn't contain it... that was a new level of danger. If you're hearing this, then the person creating this audiobook did not obtain permission. This work was created by shredder121

"Wait," Kakashi interjected, his curiosity piqued. "If Godzilla is so powerful, why does Kaguya let you all release chakra into the land? What's the catch? What does she want?"

Black Zetsu's gaze darkened. "Kaguya... she is a being who does not tolerate giving without receiving. She has a need for balance and power. That's why she demands chakra in return. It's not about generosity—it's about ensuring that there's something in return for what is given."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes, his voice calm but inquisitive. "So... when we release chakra, it's not just to keep the balance here—it's because Kaguya demands it."

"Exactly," Black Zetsu replied, his tone final. "She sees giving chakra without a price as a weakness. To her, everything must be earned. That's why, when you release chakra, there is always a consequence. You will be asked to give back, in one way or another."

Naruto frowned, his earlier excitement dampened slightly. "That doesn't sound very fair. Why would we agree to this?"

"Kaguya is not a creature who deals in fairness," Black Zetsu said coldly. "But you are bound to this island now. If you wish to gain power and the favor of the land, you must follow her rules. There is no choice in the matter."

Kakashi nodded, taking it all in. "So we're essentially paying for what we've gained here..."

"Exactly," Black Zetsu affirmed. "But there's more. While Godzilla and King Kong have their roles, they can't watch over the entire island. That's where the Ten Dragons come into play. These dragons are the true protectors of their regions, and they have a unique role—one that isn't just about guarding the land but also controlling the flow of energy in their domains. They are the guardians of this place's physical stability."

Sakura's eyes widened with understanding. "So while Godzilla and King Kong protect the creatures, the dragons protect the land itself?"

"Precisely," Black Zetsu replied, his tone softer now. "Without the dragons, the land would crumble under the weight of too much chakra. The Ten Dragons ensure that the land remains as it is—perfectly balanced."

Naruto felt the weight of it all pressing down on him. He had come here seeking strength and power, but he hadn't expected the price to be so steep. The stakes were higher than he had imagined. Every action they took, every release of chakra, had a consequence. The island, its creatures, and its guardians were all tied together in a delicate balance that they couldn't afford to disrupt.

"So, the dragons really are like... the island's lifeblood," Naruto mused aloud, a new understanding in his voice. "They shape everything here."

"Yes," Black Zetsu affirmed. "They are not creatures you can summon or control. They are the foundation of this land. But their power comes at a cost, as does yours. Kaguya demands balance, and you will be expected to provide it."

Naruto stood tall, determination flooding his veins. "I'll do whatever it takes. I'll keep this balance, and I'll make sure everyone's safe."

Sasuke nodded in agreement, his expression unreadable but resolute. "We'll handle whatever comes. We've seen worse."

Sakura smiled softly, looking down at her lion cub. "Then we have to be prepared for whatever challenges we face. It's not just about strength—it's about understanding the consequences of our actions."

As the group absorbed Black Zetsu's words, the island around them seemed to hum with life. The winds stirred, and the air grew heavier with the energy of the land. They had a long road ahead of them, and the weight of their responsibilities had never been clearer.

The island was alive, and they were now part of it. They had to tread carefully—both for their own sakes and for the sake of the balance that kept the island alive.