Kage No Densetsu

As the young students battled the towering shadow demon, the scene shifted to the Yami Village, where a sense of tranquility reigned. Shadow style users moved gracefully among the villagers, their shadow companions playfully interacting with children and ensuring their safety. Laughter and joy filled the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere that seemed unbreakable.

But this serenity was shattered when the Mitsuki Clan launched a surprise attack on the shadow barrier protecting the village. The higher-ups and sensei quickly mobilized, urging civilians to take refuge as the first waves of assault began to batter the barrier.

The relentless attacks intensified, each strike threatening to breach the protective shield. Meanwhile, Kimikage and Katakuichi continued their fight against the towering demon, determined to gather clues that would lead them to Haru.

As the Mitsuki Clan pressed their assault, the shadow style users prepared for battle. The barrier finally crumbled under the weight of the onslaught, and chaos erupted as the clan members surged into the village. Sensei Gaki and Sensei Shidou led the charge, showcasing their formidable techniques in defense of their home.

Among the attackers was a woman from the Mitsuki Clan, her presence strikingly familiar to Sensei Shidou. "Ryu," he muttered, recognition dawning. "No wonder Katakuichi despises you after what you've done."

Ryu sighed, her expression heavy with regret. "You don't understand. I had no choice. Betraying Katakuichi weighs on me, but I did what I had to do."

With a resigned breath, Sensei Shidou summoned ten thousand shadow clones, embodying the very essence of his name as they surged forward to confront her.

Meanwhile, Kimikage and Katakuichi fought valiantly against the shadow demons, their skills complementing each other perfectly. Katakuichi unleashed his massive shadow demon construction, while Kimikage wielded his shadow knives and summoned shadow wolves to aid in their fight.

"Hey, you okay, kid?" Katakuichi asked, stepping down to check on Haru, who was trembling in fear.

"I... I'm scared to go home. My parents are always strict and angry," Haru admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Don't worry. We won't let anything happen to you," Kimikage reassured him.

"But why were the shadow demons calling you the child of prophecy?" Haru asked, curiosity flickering in his eyes.

"I have the king of shadow demons inside me since I was born," Haru explained. "You need to collect twenty shadow relics for him to fully awaken."

Kimikage nodded, understanding dawning. "I see. It's rare for them to speak."

Katakuichi gasped, determination setting in. "Okay, you're coming with us to Kage no Daigaku. You need to be inspected by the higher-ups."

As they returned to the village, the devastation wrought by the Mitsuki Clan became painfully clear. Kimikage's heart sank as he spotted his parents, injured but alive. "Mom, Dad, are you okay?" he called out, rushing to their side.

"Yes, we're fine, son. We're proud of you," they replied, their voices filled with warmth despite their injuries.

"I'm sorry I wasn't here to save you," Kimikage sobbed, tears streaming down his face. "I promise I'll get stronger—for my friends, for you, and for myself."

Sensei Shidou and Gaki, weary from the battle but resolute, had managed to protect the Yami Village from complete destruction. Katakuichi, however, felt the weight of solitude as he stood apart, his heart heavy with unspoken grief.

"Great job, everyone, on the mission," Sensei Shidou said, patting both boys on the back. Katakuichi took a deep breath, explaining the situation to his sensei, who then led Haru to the higher-ups for further evaluation.