12 Chapter 12: The Ebbing Light

### Chapter 12: The Ebbing Light

The passing seasons had brought much growth and triumph to Arashi, but not all tales within the shinobi world wove threads of success and strength. A somber shadow descended upon him with the news of Ranmaru's deteriorating health. Ranmaru, his confidant and comrade in many a late-night training session, had been battling a relentless disease that defied even the most skilled medical-nin of Konoha.

Arashi received the grave news during a routine meeting with Tsunade, one of the legendary Sannin and a medical ninja of unparalleled skill within the village. She had taken a keen interest in Ranmaru's case due to his unique abilities and their potential implications for medical research.

"Ranmaru's condition is a rare and aggressive illness," Tsunade explained with a furrowed brow, her voice a mixture of frustration and regret. "It attacks the body's chakra system, disrupting and eventually halting the flow of chakra. We've tried several treatments, but nothing has proven effective."

The revelation hit Arashi like a physical blow. The thought of his vibrant friend, who had faced life's adversities with unwavering courage and a gentle smile, succumbing to an invisible, insidious foe was bitterly ironic. 

Driven by a deep-set urge to not stand idly by, Arashi visited Ranmaru daily. The small, humble room where Ranmaru rested was a stark contrast to the vibrant energy he used to emit. Tubes and scrolls of medical jutsu surrounded him, a silent testament to Tsunade's relentless efforts.

During one of these visits, Arashi took Ranmaru's frail hand, squeezing gently. "Ranmaru, you've got to fight this. Remember all the plans we made? There's still so much we need to do."

Ranmaru managed a weak smile, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm trying, Arashi. But it's like fighting a shadow. You can't hit what you can't see."

Those visits became Arashi's solace and sorrow. He watched his friend's once bright eyes dim a little more each day, yet Ranmaru never complained, always more concerned about Arashi's well-being and his missions than his own pain.

Determined to find some way to help, Arashi spent countless nights poring over medical texts and forbidden scrolls, seeking anything that could offer hope. His efforts led him to ancient medical techniques and experimental treatments that pushed the boundaries of ethical shinobi conduct. Each possibility turned into a dead end, but Arashi pressed on, driven by a mix of desperation and guilt.

One evening, as the sun cast long shadows over the village, Tsunade summoned Arashi. Her expression was grave, her eyes weary. "Arashi, come with me," she said quietly.

They walked in silence to Ranmaru's room, where the atmosphere was stifling, heavy with impending grief. Ranmaru lay still, his breathing shallow and labored. As Arashi approached the bedside, Ranmaru opened his eyes, a faint gleam of recognition passing through them.

"Arashi," Ranmaru murmured. "I wanted to see you... one more time."

Kneeling beside the bed, Arashi clasped Ranmaru's hand, his own voice choked with emotion. "I'm here, Ranmaru. I'm here."

Ranmaru smiled, his gaze drifting towards the window where the first stars of the evening were appearing. "I'm not afraid, Arashi. I've had my share of battles, and this... this is just the final one."

Tears welled up in Arashi's eyes as he watched a serene peace settle over Ranmaru's features. With a final, gentle squeeze of his hand, Ranmaru's breath slowed, and the light in his eyes faded, leaving a silence that filled the room like a heavy mist.

Arashi sat there long after, holding the hand of his friend, mentor, and brother in arms. When he finally stood, his heart was heavy with loss but fortified by the strength and bravery Ranmaru had shown throughout his life. In that profound moment of grief, Arashi vowed to carry forward the lessons and love he had received from Ranmaru, ensuring that his spirit would continue to inspire and guide him in the battles to come.