Naruto: The Stormborn Clan

16. The Thunder Swordsman

Gilthunder Zolydyak awoke to the soft glow of dawn filtering through the entrance of his cave mansion, nestled high within the western mountain wall overlooking the village. The expansive dwelling, carved meticulously into the rock, boasted five spacious chambers, each adorned with elegant simplicity. Servants moved quietly through the halls, attending to their morning duties with practiced ease, embodying the clan's ethos of respect and equality.

Beside him, his wife lay peacefully, her rounded belly a testament to the new life they eagerly awaited. Her silver hair, so much like his own, fanned out across the pillow. Gilthunder smiled, memories of their shared journey warming his heart. He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. She stirred slightly, a soft smile gracing her lips before she settled back into slumber.

Rising quietly, Gilthunder donned his training attire and made his way to the natural stone terrace that formed the western edge of their abode. The view beyond the village was breathtaking—vast expanses of verdant forests, towering mountains, and vibrant wildlife greeted the dawn. Birds took flight, their morning songs heralding the new day.

As the first rays of the sun touched his face, Gilthunder's silver hair gleamed, and his chiseled physique stood poised and ready. He began his morning ritual, practicing the Thunder Sword techniques that had earned him his moniker. His weapon, a broad sword forged entirely of chakra-metal, was a masterpiece. The hilt, crafted from the sacred Thunder Tree, bore intricate carvings that told tales of the clan's heritage. This ancestral blade had been passed down through six generations, each wielder adding their essence to its legacy.

With deliberate precision, Gilthunder moved through a series of forms, the sword humming with latent energy. He channeled his chakra, infusing the blade with lightning that crackled along its edge. Each swing released arcs of electricity, illuminating the air with brief flashes. His mastery allowed him to perform these techniques with minimal hand signs, a testament to his dedication and skill.

Completing his practice, he approached a nearby pool fed by a mountain spring. The cool water refreshed him, washing away the exertion of training. Returning to the warmth of their home, he found his wife still nestled in their bed. He sat beside her, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

"Time to wake, my love," he whispered softly.

She groaned playfully, pulling the covers over her head.

"Five more minutes," she mumbled, her voice muffled.

He chuckled, leaning down to nuzzle her cheek.

"Breakfast will be cold without you," he teased.

With a reluctant sigh, she peeked out, her eyes sparkling with affection.

"Only because you make the best pancakes," she conceded.

In the kitchen, Gilthunder prepared a simple yet hearty meal, the aroma filling their home. As they sat down to eat, a graceful silver owl alighted on the balcony railing. Recognizing it as the clan leader's messenger, Gilthunder retrieved the two scrolls it carried.

The first was the daily bulletin, detailing the clan's activities. He noted the mention of the Senju sending their elite jonin team disguised as wandering ninja and the subsequent action of the clan in dispatching Luxus to confront them, though specifics were understandably sparse.

The second scroll bore his summons. His wife observed his contemplative expression, her brow arching in curiosity.

"Clan business?" she inquired.

He nodded, folding the parchment.

"An assignment from the clan head. I must see to it today."

She reached across the table, squeezing his hand gently.

"Be safe," she urged, her eyes reflecting both love and concern.

He brought her hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to her knuckles.

"Always," he promised.

After entrusting her care to the attentive maternity nurse, Gilthunder donned his armor and made his way toward the clan headquarters. The path was familiar, yet today it felt laden with the weight of impending duty.

As he approached the central courtyard, he spotted Zen, the clan's strategist, engaged in conversation with several council members. Their discussion was hushed but intense, and Gilthunder caught snippets about the recent encounter with the Senju.

Continuing on, he reached the entrance just as Luxus was returning from his mission.

Leaning casually against a post, Gilthunder greeted him with his characteristic dry tone.

"How did it go?"

Luxus, brushing past him, replied simply, "It's done."

Falling into step beside him, Gilthunder's sharp gaze flicked to Luxus.

"I'll be escorting those Senju back to their village."

Luxus raised a brow. "You? Escorting? Did you lose a bet?"

"Not funny." Gilthunder frowned. "They're injured, and the clan doesn't want unnecessary bloodshed if they die on the way back. It's a matter of honor—or so I'm told. I call it a glorified nanny job."

Luxus chuckled. "Better you than me."

Their exchange, though brief, underscored the trust and camaraderie between them.

As Gilthunder prepared to undertake his mission, he couldn't help but reflect on the delicate balance of power and diplomacy that defined their world.

The path ahead was uncertain, but with his clan's honor at stake, he was resolved to see it through.