NARUTO: The Saga of Crimson Monarch

[As Ares made his way toward the city gates]

Meiji panting, voice urgent "Lord Asura, wait!"

Ares turning, surprised "Meiji? What is it?"

"Lord Asura " Meiji called out, his voice firm yet warm. "Before you leave, there's something we must show you."

Ares raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "What is it, Meiji? What's going on?"

Without a word, Meiji motioned for Ares to follow, weaving through the lively streets. As they walked, people paused to greet Ares, their faces lighting up with gratitude and admiration. Ares acknowledged them with a calm nod but kept his focus on Meiji's lead. They soon reached the bustling city square, where a large crowd had assembled, their excitement palpable in the air.

"What's happening?" Ares asked, looking around.

Meiji spoke up "It's a surprise, Lord Asura. Just trust us."

Ares stopped in his tracks as he noticed a tall figure at the center of the square, shrouded beneath a massive cloth. On either side, Yuusei and Zeno stood firmly, gripping a thick rope, and the crowd was whispering in anticipation. His heart raced. What was this? Was it for him?

Meiji faced Ares, his expression a mix of solemnity and heartfelt gratitude. "Lord Asura," he began, his voice steady, "this is our tribute to you—a gift from the people you've saved, the city you've rebuilt, and the warriors you've inspired. We wanted to create a symbol of your legacy, so that your deeds will never fade from memory."

Ares, momentarily overwhelmed and at a loss for words, simply gave a quiet nod

With a final gesture, Meiji signaled for the cloth to be removed. The wind stirred, and the fabric fell away, revealing a towering statue of Ares. He stood tall, gripping the hilt of a sword planted deep in the ground. His gaze was fixed on the horizon, exuding quiet strength and unwavering pride. The statue captured not just his likeness but his essence—powerful, composed, a protector who commanded respect. Every chiseled line spoke of strength, purpose, and the legacy he had forged.

The crowd gasped collectively, before erupting into a loud roar of cheers. They shouted Ares' name, calling out his title with reverence. "Asura! Asura! Asura!"

Ares whispered, bowing his head, his voice heavy with emotion "I... I don't know what to say everyone. I never asked for such praise, but... I'm honored. Truly."

Suki jumped up and down, waving his hands in the air, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "That's him! That's Aniki! The Crimson-Haired Asura!"

Takehiko excitedly jumping up and down "Hey, Suki, that's my hero! The Crimson Haired Asura! I've heard so many stories about him!"

A samurai smiling and proud "You two brats are lucky to see him up close. He's a legend—he's the reason this city stand again. He even stop a war with a single sword slash"

Kiko beaming, pointing at Ares "Look! Everyone !He's even waving at us! He's so cool!"

Takehiko looking up to Ares "I want to be like him when I grow up!"

Suki eyes shining with determination "Yeah, me too,when I grow up, I'll be just like Aniki! A hero!"

[The square was filled with the sound of cheers and admiration as flowers rained down upon Ares' statue. The air was thick with the sweet scent of blossoms. People shouted their gratitude, tossing flowers in his honor. Children waved wooden swords, striking heroic poses, their faces beaming with joy. Even the elderly raised their hands in celebration, praising Ares' heroic deeds with voices full of reverence.]

Ares stood still, overwhelmed by the surge of emotion. His chest tightened as he saw the faces of the warriors, children, and elderly—all united in gratitude. He had never imagined receiving such adoration.

He turned to Meiji, his voice thick with emotion. "This... this is too much. I didn't come here for this. I only did what was needed."

Meiji smiled warmly, his voice filled with deep respect. "You didn't just do what was needed, Lord Asura. You gave us hope. You saved us from war. You guided us, led us to rebuild our homes. This statue—this is for all of us. It is a symbol of what you've done and what you mean to us all."

With a final nod, Ares addressed the crowd. "Thank you. I'm deeply honored by this. I will carry this memory with me, and I will never forget your kindness. I'll miss you all, but my journey calls. The future awaits us. Keep moving forward, and never forget— from the ashes, you will rise! . Never stop moving forward. This is your city, your future now."

The crowd erupts into a final cheer, some waving, some crying, as Ares turned and made his way toward Fenrir, who stood waiting by his side. He mounted the great wolf with a fluid motion.

"Goodbye, everyone. Until we meet again," Ares' voice echoed through the crowd. With a gentle nudge, he urged Fenrir forward, and the great wolf surged ahead, running like the wind.