The Sage of Sanctuary

by DemonsWake

The legends of the shinobi world are all gone now and it is up to the newer generations to maintain the peace that those past shinobi fought for. However, one legend's story isn't over just yet. Follow Naruto as he fights to bring peace to a new world while getting help along the way.

10. Chapter 10

AN: Season's greetings and all that stuff. New chapter ready for you. Don't have much else to say about it, but it's funny that a day after I posted chapter nine I realized that I was just a day away from the one year anniversary of this story, so here's to that.

Also, I just wanted to let you know that I am working on another story that will be a crossover with the same Naruto from this universe and One Piece. But don't worry, it won't be nearly as in depth as this one is and it won't take priority over Sage of Sanctuary. I don't even plan for it to be that long, just a few chapters throwing Naruto into a couple of arcs that I couldn't get out of my head. One Piece is honestly a plot nightmare for me, there is so much lore surrounding One Piece, and most of it is unknown as far as I know (it's actually been a while since I have seen One Piece, so I will be using old arcs obviously), and I don't have the mental fortitude to try and tie everything together. It will be a short, open ended story and a quick romance with Naruto probably being more OP then he should be, maybe. I hope it will be as fun as I think it will be.

Well, I hope you enjoy.

---

Chapter 10

Naruto, Li-Ming, Leah, and Cain were all gathered in the bunker around the man who they found in the crater at the bottom of the cathedral. Naruto and Leah had told everyone else that he had awoken after Naruto introduced everyone to the three newcomers, but they agreed that being surrounded by so many people at once would probably be a bit overwhelming for the stranger. So they all agreed to allow, arguably the three most intelligent and knowledgeable people in Li-Ming, Leah and Cain, and Naruto, the unspoken leader of their group, to listen to what he has to say. Kharazim and Xul did not bother to protest this decision as they were not the ones to help in retrieving the fallen star, so they just waited along with everyone else for what news they would bring.

Leah handed the tanned man, still dressed in his green robe, a glass of water, as he sat up on the bed he had been sleeping on for the past six days. He appreciated the gesture as his throat was dry and he very much enjoyed the cool soothing feeling the water gave him, almost like it was the first time he had ever had something to drink before.

"(sigh) Thank you. What is this? I've never had anything like it before." Everyone looked at him strangely, thinking what kind of question that could be, but Leah was the one to voice their thoughts.

"Uh… it's water. You've never had water before?"

"Not that I can remember."

Li-Ming and Naruto both internally groaned at this. Dealing with an amnesiac was not something they really wanted to handle right now, but neither could blame the man or really do anything about it. But how can someone forget about water? Cain however did not share in their lamentations and wanted to quickly discover anything he could about this man, regardless of what little information he could provide. Any piece of information that he could get was good enough for Deckard Cain.

"Do you know who you are? Is there anything you can tell us?"

"I… I remember falling."

"Yeah, you fell alright. You were on fire and everything. You threw all the wildlife in a frenzy and you woke up the dead too."

"Naruto!" Leah didn't like Naruto's bluntness but before she could continue further the man spoke again.

"I am not your enemy."

Naruto realized how his words probably sounded to the man and made to apologize. "Sorry, I didn't mean to sound accusing or anything. I don't blame you for what happened. You were unconscious the whole time your powers were running rampant, so it's not your fault. I can tell that you're not evil."

"Thank you, it was not my intention for any of those things to happen."

"Is there anything else you can tell us? Can you recall anything about who you are?" asked Li-Ming.

"I am… a warrior." The man held his head in pain as he tried to remember anything else. Leah was about to tell him to rest some more before they try again later but he seemed to remember something else. "I believe, I have come with a warning. The darkness… the darkness is coming. I must… I don't remember." Before the man could hurt himself anymore by thinking too much Naruto made to distract him with an observation he made.

"You said you were a warrior right?"

The man looked up at Naruto not knowing why he needed to know this, as the others looked on in confusion as well. "Yes, I believe that I am."

"Where are you going with this Naruto? Many people become warriors in order to survive, so him being one isn't all that of a surprise." Naruto didn't bother to answer Li-Ming's question but instead asked one more of his own to the amnesiac man.

"Where is your weapon?"

That simple question seemed to ignite a light in the man's eyes as they widened slightly. His weapon, it's something he should definitely remember. He used it all the time in battle, it was always by his side. He looked at his hands, placing them in a grip with one on top of the other as if he was holding it.

"My… sword. Yes, I carried a sword with me. Always with me… a part of me." It looked like he remembered something else as he continued. "It… it shattered into three pieces as I fell. It is a sword of immense power. It… it is the embodiment of my will. I must retrieve my sword." The man held his head in pain again as this was all too much for him to handle right now, and Leah put a hand on his shoulder to push him back down on his bed.

"You should rest for now. We can think on what we can do to help you." The stranger took her advice and laid back down as the four of them left the room and entered the hallway.

"How did you know asking about his weapon would jog his memory?" asked Li-Ming.

"Well, I've noticed how all of you take pretty good care of your weapons or focuses, like your orb and Nazeebo's mojo. Sonya and Johanna's weapons and shield might get more beat up but you can't really blame them for that. Even so, they make sure they're properly cared for. And I noticed much of Valla's supplies include a lot of cleaning and maintenance tools for her crossbows. I pretty much noticed the same thing with all the warriors I've seen, from the Umbaru to the Askari and the others who participated in the Skovos Games. So I just figured he'd probably be the same and his weapon would be something important to him."

"I see, that's pretty good thinking for you Naruto."

"You are so kind Li-Ming."

"Haha! Of course I am. You better be grateful."

"Uncle? Is there something on your mind?"

"Naruto brings up a good point. The stranger said his sword is the embodiment of his will. His sword… just may be the key to unlocking his memory, those pieces must be found. It is vital that we know the message he has come to give us. The future of Sanctuary depends on it!"

"But how do we know where to look for them uncle?"

"I think it's time I call in the scouts again." said Naruto.

Everyone was a little confused by that but Li-Ming was the first to realize what he meant. "You mean the withermoths?"

"That's right. They could probably let me know if there is anything of note in the surrounding areas."

"I suppose that's worth a shot." said Li-Ming.

"I'm on it! I'm gonna go into the Weeping Hollow and make contact there. I don't want to cause a fuss in the middle of town. Why don't you let the others know what's going on and that we most likely have to move out again soon, Li-Ming."

"Okay, I'll let them know."

---

Naruto came back to the town square after about fifteen minutes where everyone was waiting for what news he would bring. Li-Ming along with Leah had already explained to the others the discussion they had with the stranger and were now just waiting for Naruto.

"How goes it Naruto? What news do you bring?" said Sonya.

"Not a whole lot I'm afraid, but we may have a lead on where one of the sword shards is located. My withermoth friends tell me that there is a potent energy coming from the plains west of the cemetery. It has caused some of them to act aggressively when they come into a certain distance, so they are avoiding that area for now."

"I see. If the sword shards are really connected to his power then the energy coming from the shard is making the wildlife and any other demons in the area more aggravated just like when he first fell into the cathedral." said Li-Ming.

"That's what I'm thinking. So it's probably our best shot for now." Naruto then turned to Leah and held out the handle of one of his Hiraishin kunai as he held the bladed end. "Here Leah, I want you to hold on to this."

"I'm not really a knife fighter Naruto."

"Haha, I know. This is a Hiraishin kunai that will let me travel to it instantaneously. If there is trouble in the town that the militia can't handle, all you have to do is throw it or channel some of your energy into it and I'll feel the pull letting me know you need me."

"Oh, okay. I can't really control my energies very well but I'll definitely use this if we're in trouble."

"Good, there really shouldn't be anything too dangerous nearby since we took care of most of it, but it's just a precaution."

"Thank you. You all stay safe out there."

There was nothing else to say and they were all prepared, so the group of nine bid Leah farewell and made their way into the Weeping Hollow and into the cemetery to pass through its west gate. They crossed another roofed bridge over the river and stood at the entrance of the fields. These were some of the farmlands that surrounded New Tristram and as Naruto realized this, he grew concerned that he never sent out any clones or went out himself to scout this far. He didn't know there were other farmers and likely their families out here, and it had already been a week since this whole thing started. Li-Ming saw the concern on his face and wanted to know what was bothering him.

"What's wrong Naruto?"

"I… didn't know there could have been more people out here. I should have scouted further out into surrounding areas. If this place is just as bad as it was a week ago then these families are most likely dead. I should ha…"

"Stop it! You didn't know there were farmers out here, none of us did. You can't take the blame for everything that happens here Naruto. Valla told you once already didn't she? You can't save everyone out there. You are just one man, and it isn't fair to you to place such a heavy burden on yourself."

For a moment Naruto swore he saw an image of Hinata behind Li-Ming with the same expression of concern mixed with a strictness that she came to develop during their growing relationship, especially after she became a mother. Naruto stared straight at Li-Ming and knew she was right and was glad she was there to pull him out of his depressing thoughts.

"I'm sorry. You're right Li-Ming."

"Of course I am. And besides, just because it has been a week already doesn't mean there still can't be survivors. We won't know until we check these farmhouses and see what we find."

"She is correct again my friend. Do not lose hope. I have come to learn that people can become very resilient during times of great peril."

Naruto gave them a big grin showing he was getting back to his usual self from their words. "Thanks Nazeebo, and thank you Li-Ming. I needed that."

"You are most welcome."

"Just don't let it happen again."

"Haha, whatever you say Li-Ming."

"So what now Naruto? How do you wish to proceed?" said Johanna.

Naruto turned to look at the area they were in and could tell there would be a lot of ground to cover. "It's probably best if we split up again. There's nine of us so groups of three should be okay. I'll head out with our two new allies since I can probably adapt quicker to their styles of fighting, and the rest of you can already work well enough with each other that it shouldn't be a problem."

"That sounds reasonable I suppose. Johanna, Nazeebo. Would you care to join me?" said Valla.

""I would be honored/delighted.""

"Then that leaves us three together." said Sonya looking at Li-Ming and Kormac.

"It sure does. Let's get started."

"Right! I will do my best not to slow you ladies down."

The others started walking away as Naruto turned to his two companions, Kharazim and Xul. "You guys ready? Let's show'em we're gonna be the best team there is! The mighty men team! Boys rule, girls drool! Oof!" Naruto was suddenly pelted with a large wad of snow as he was planted into the ground courtesy of Li-Ming as they heard her yell.

"Shut up Naruto!" The other women of their group were about retaliate as well but Li-Ming beat them to it and laughed as they saw Naruto covered in snow and face first into the dirt but continued on their way.

"Are you alright there?" said Kharazim as he and Xul looked down at Naruto still in the dirt.

"I'm good."

"I would like to say from what little experience I have, it is usually unwise to antagonize women in general, let alone such capable warriors as them."

Naruto suddenly stood straight up on his feet but he still had a grin on his face. "Hehe, I know. I just like messing with them sometimes. And I wanted to lighten the mood that I had created earlier. Sorry about that, by the way."

"No need to apologize. You have a big heart, but that may only make your pain more severe."

"You're right, but that's not something I can change about myself, nor would I want to either."

"Shouldn't we be moving now." said Xul as he waited patiently for them to finish but felt it was time to move on.

"Right, let's move out."

All three groups spread out to cover more ground to try and find where the sword shard had landed. These farmlands were surrounded by trees and dense shrubbery so there was a boundary that they didn't need to go beyond, which made things a little easier. Li-Ming, Sonya and Kormac went along the left side of the fields and Nazeebo, Valla and Johanna went down the center, leaving Naruto, Kharazim and Xul to go up along the right side.

There weren't really too many enemies to deal with, but just more of the same monsters they had to fight before. Being mostly goatmen, quill fiends, carrion bats, and scavengers. None of these enemies really proved to be difficult so they all had no problems fighting against them, and there weren't any champions among them that could give them some trouble. There were however some savage beasts roaming about but they still did not prove to be too much of a problem.

---

Li-Ming and her group moved along their side, fighting off various creatures, with Kormac and Sonya taking the lead, when they came upon one of the farmhouses that were built here. The majority of the crops were ruined, having been trampled or eaten by the aggravated wildlife. Some of the walls of the house were damaged, as one section looked to be rammed through by a savage beast. Before they entered to look for any survivors, they made sure to clear out the surrounding area so as not to be caught off guard.

Kormac, being the chivalrous Templar that he is, opted to enter the house first with his shield and spear at the ready in case there were any enemies inside. Li-Ming and Sonya followed right after him but the house was completely silent indicating there were at least no animals or demons inside; since they probably wouldn't really bother to use stealth in an aggravated state. They searched the whole house including the upstairs but they found nothing and moved back outside. Li-Ming looked a little dejected that they didn't find anybody, worried how Naruto would take the news.

"I hope I didn't speak too soon earlier."

"Fret not Li-Ming. We may not have found anyone but we also did not find their corpses either. There is still a chance they have survived, but are in a different area."

"You're right Sonya. Let us continue."

---

Valla, along with her two companions, went down the middle of the fields and they had a bit more to deal with compared to the other two groups but they still handled themselves without sustaining any serious injuries. Nazeebo's gargantuan and Johanna took up the front line fighting as himself and Valla engaged from a distance. Their group also came upon a farmhouse but this one was much smaller as the owners looked to only grow pumpkins with small pumpkin patches surrounding the house. As they approached the small farm they could immediately feel the movement from underground as dozens of scavengers started popping up beneath them and attacking.

The three warriors and deadly creature defeated their attackers after some time as they continued to come out of the ground until finally they were the last ones standing. Their skirmish seemed to have alerted a survivor as a man poked his head out from the cellar door from beneath his house as he came out to see the scavengers have been killed by these warriors.

"Thank goodness! Those scavengers kept my poor wife and I trapped down there for days! Please, come in! I'm sure she'd love to meet you and thank you for your help."

The three followed the man down into his cellar, leaving behind the gargantuan to keep a look out, wanting to make sure they were really okay. They were not prepared for the scene that met them as they stood in shock, not quite believing what they see. The man leading them was oblivious to their reactions as he kept talking and approached his wife.

"My love! These are the people who saved our farm. Say hello!" What had the three in such a stupor, was the fact that the man's wife was a desiccated corpse sitting in a rocking chair as it slowly rocked back and forth. There was really nothing they could say, but as the chair rocked forth once more, her head proceeded to fall off her shoulders and roll onto the ground by her husband's feet. "Oh, she's nodded off."

"Oh my." said Johanna.

"Please, make yourselves at home, I'll brew some tea for everyone." As the man moved to prepare the tea he continued speaking, trying to make small talk but instead made the three increasingly uncomfortable. "You wouldn't know it, but this basement gets right chilly at night. Cold as the grave… You know, it can be quite dangerous out in the wilderness. Being this far out scares my wife to death! Oh you should have been there when I met my wife. I lost my heart, and she lost her head… My wife can't help with the planting and harvesting. She's nothing but skin and bones! But I can't take all the credit. My wife handles the business side of things. She has a good head on her shoulders."

"We must go. Now." said Valla. She didn't want to hear any more of this man's insane drivel. There was clearly something wrong with him, and she did not want to deal with it.

"Oh, is that so? Well do feel free to stop by anytime you'd like. I'm sure my wife would just love to talk your head off next time you visit."

The three made a hasty exit from the cellar and out to the open. They stood in an awkward silence, still trying to process what they just witnessed, but Valla was the first to speak.

"We never speak of this, and we forget this ever happened. Agreed?"

""Agreed!"" There was no hesitation from Nazeebo and Johanna. They too wanted to forget everything they just saw. They've all seen some weird and crazy things before, but this encounter just might take the cake. They took a few more moments to compose themselves and get into the right mindset once again and then they proceeded to move forward to continue to look for the sword shard.

---

Naruto and his two companions moved along their side of the farmlands with relative ease. Naruto was right in his assumptions about Kharazim's fighting style. He was a well trained hand to hand fighter and his two fist weapons were a deadly combination that either crushed or cut open his opponents. He used Dashing Strikes that threw himself into the thick of battle dishing out devastating blows along the way. He would also summon a Wave of Light in the form of a large bell that would crush the enemies around him. He also used a defensive technique that temporarily blinded the enemies in front of him to give them an advantage. Kharazim was definitely a front line fighter who was not afraid to get in close to finish his opponents.

Xul had once again brought out his Blood Golem, as he called him, which proceeded to somehow give Naruto the stink eye even without any muscles on its skull, but as soon as enemies came into range the golem moved to engage them and ignored Naruto for now. Xul's other abilities definitely reminded Naruto of Kimimaro, as the primary attack he used were bone spikes that he summoned in a straight path along the ground, skewering everything that stood in its way. But what got most of his attention was that he used the corpses of the fallen creatures as weapons as well. He would either cause the corpses to explode or he would summon more bone spikes from them to launch from a distance through the air. His style of fighting did not mean he was vulnerable up close however as a few scavengers' heads were removed when they came too close to him. His scythe wasn't just for show.

As they were fighting, Naruto thought he would make some small talk to try and get to know his two new allies better.

"Hey, Kharazim."

"Yes comrade, do you need something?"

"No, I just thought that I'd let you know that I believe we actually saw one of your allies participate in the Skovos Games a little while back."

"Really? Do you know their name?"

"Uh, I forget. But she had short white hair and wore beads like yours, with a yellow gi, and brown pants. I also remember her walking around with a staff before her fight in the games. It was red with black leather grips, and it had like heavy steel heads on either end. I think the bottom was yellow with spikes coming out of it and the top was red and yellow but was carved into the shape of an angry face."

"Ah, the Warstaff of General Quang, that must be Uliana. How did she fare in her bout?"

"She did really good. She got all the way to the finals but she was beaten by an assassin, but it was a close match. I was impressed, she's really strong."

"That she is, I am glad to know she is doing well out on her own."

"Were you two close?"

"Not particularly, but we are comrades. I know she set out to continue to better herself, always looking for the next challenge. The Patriarchs have high hopes for her. Her main ambition is to become the first Matriarch in over a century."

"Is it hard to become a Patriarch or Matriarch?"

"Extremely. In order to become a Patriarch or Matriarch, one must have a complete understanding of Sahptev, or the one-thousand and one gods. It is an undertaking that can take a lifetime to complete."

"That's… a lot of gods."

"Indeed."

"Well, I hope she can get there someday."

"I am sure she would appreciate the sentiment." His small conversation with Kharazim over now, Naruto turned to Xul to see what he could learn about him.

"So, Xul. Where do you come from?"

"Kehjistan."

"Oh. So, how did you become a necromancer?"

"Training."

"Okay. What is your energy source called?"

"Essence."

"What is the goal of the Priests of Rathma?"

"To uphold Balance."

"Wha…" Before Naruto could ask his next question he had to suddenly duck his head before the corpse of a quill fiend could hit him. As he looked over to where it came from he narrowed his eyes in suspicion as he saw the Blood Golem there with its back turned, fighting the only group of quill fiends that were around them. He thought it might have just been a coincidence but as he was about to turn away he saw the golem turn to look at him, giving him a smirk. Naruto couldn't do anything to retaliate as more enemies came to fight them, but he just gave the golem the 'I'm watching you gesture,' pointing his fingers to his eyes and back at the golem. "We'll continue this conversation later."

"As you wish."

They continued along their path for a little while longer and were walking through an empty area by some woods along the edge of a river. When Kharazim walked close to one particular tree, it suddenly uprooted itself with a loud roar, swinging at them with its branches almost catching the three off guard, as they dodged. Before Kharazim or Xul could engage it Naruto stood in front of them to stop them, and spoke.

"Hold on! I have a deep connection to nature and wood in particular. So let me handle this." The two men had also been observing Naruto as he fought alongside them and knew he could handle himself so they made no protest to stop him from moving on his own. They were not prepared for what would happen next, but something tells them that they should probably get used to this kind of behavior from this man.

Naruto moved forward towards the walking tree with his arms out wide in a placating manner as he started to speak to it, and oddly enough it did not immediately attack again. "Hey there big guy. It's all right, we won't hurt you. Trees are an important part of nature. So it's okay."

"Naruto, I don't think…"

"It's alright Kharazim. I got this." Naruto then moved up to the mobile tree and then wrapped as much of his arms around its trunk as he could in what looked to be a gentle embrace, to try and further placate the aggressive timber.

---

"Pfffft, bwahahahahahahaha!" A group of people who were old war veterans from the Fourth Great Shinobi War were gathered around, wanting to look in on how Naruto was progressing in the new world he was sent to, and watched as their old friend embraced a walking tree. Kankuro was the one on the ground laughing uproariously at the sight, but caught enough breath to speak momentarily. "Haha! I knew it! All of you Konoha shinobi are a bunch of tree huggers! Your own Seventh Hokage just confirmed what we all knew! Hahahahahahaha!"

"That is so not cool Naruto. He's making us all look bad!" said Kiba.

"He, is much more… unorthodox than usual I must say. Why? I have not the faintest clue." said Shino.

"Uzumaki, did always feel like a weird one to me. So I'm not too surprised by this. But it's good to know we were right about the tree hugger thing too." said Kurotsuchi with a smile getting a small jab at her shinobi counter parts.

"I can't believe Hinata-sama married this man." said Neji while pinching the bridge of his nose to try and stave off a headache.

"He seems about the same to me. He was always trying to make his grand kids laugh by doing something really dumb. It usually worked too." said Choji.

"Yes Choji-san! Naruto-kun is just fanning his FLAMES OF YOUUUUUUTH!"

"I hope he can fan those flames faster because that tree is trying to kill him now." said Tenten as everyone but her and Neji covered their ears from Lee's outburst, having years of experience dealing with it already. Kankuro still couldn't stop laughing until he heard Tenten's comment and started paying more attention to what was going on.

"He changed his tune pretty quick there didn't he? I swear he's bipolar or something." said Karui sitting next to her husband as they watched together.

"Well it is attacking him now. You can't really blame him. But I agree with Shino-san, his behavior does seem more odd than usual. At least from what I remember." said Chojuro.

"Uzumaki Naruto… wishes to keep their minds at ease."

"What do you mean Gaara?" asked Kankuro to his brother. Gaara continued but kept his eyes on what was happening the whole time.

"He is powerful. Far more powerful than he was during the war. These demons and animals are nothing compared to his skill and strength. Even to us they would pose no real threat. But by showing his companions his natural foolishness and clumsiness he allows himself to appear more… human, in a sense. I believe that he hopes when the time comes for him to truly unveil his destructive power, they will not run in fear of him, but stand beside him and continue to see him as the compassionate man he is to the innocent, and his allies."

"… Wow little brother, that was pretty deep." The others couldn't help but agree with Kankuro, and they thought hard on Gaara's words. Many of them often wondered why Naruto was holding back so much, but thanks to Gaara's insight it seems they may have an answer to their unasked question.

"He has taught me much about the bonds we make with each other. So I am aware how important it is that he keeps the new bonds he has created with these warriors close to him."

"Well that's very sweet of you Gaara, and I do believe you, but I think Uzumaki is still an idiot." said Kurotsuchi. No one bothered to dispute that claim either.

---

Naruto had a feeling someone was mocking him as soon as he hugged the aggressive tree, but any further thought on that had to wait as the tree's branches suddenly wrapped around him trying to choke the life out of him.

"Hey! You stupid tree, I was only trying to help you!" The tree, seeing as its victim was not dying as quickly as the others before, then started slamming Naruto into the ground repeatedly like a sack of potatoes over and over. Even with being manhandled so roughly, Naruto thought he saw Xul's golem laughing out of the corner of his eye with its shoulders shaking, but he currently had other things to deal with. "That's it you lousy piece of drift wood! I'm gonna chop the shit out of you and use the pieces to stoke the campfire and use that fire to boil the water that I'll use for my ramen! … Shit, I don't have any ramen. Whatever! You have no idea the kind of hell I can bring you!"

Kharazim and Xul were going to intervene as soon as it grabbed hold of their companion, but after hearing Naruto yelling at the beast, they realized he wasn't in as much danger as they initially thought. They then observed as Naruto finally broke free of its hold on him and proceeded to make true on at least one of his threats. After Naruto broke the hold, he took out his trench knives, infusing them with wind chakra, and began hacking away; cutting it apart it with ease. After a few moments and the pained cries of the monstrous tree, there was nothing left but chopped up wood in a large pile on the ground.

"Stupid, ungrateful tree."

"I was trying to tell you that those beasts are not actual trees. No one really knows what they truly are or where they came from, but most are in agreement that the Wood Wraiths are not a part of nature."

"Oh. Well at least you tried Kharazim! Let no one take that away from you!" Naruto lightly patted the monk on the shoulder then continued to move forward as if nothing weird had occurred, but his two companions stood there, not quite comprehending what just happened, but they soon began following him to continue their search.

They fought along their path for a while longer, clearing out another area of goatmen and various other animals when they heard the sounds of angry yelling and fighting up ahead. The fighting was up on a hill in front of a wood mill and an adjacent house that was completely walled off. What had Naruto concerned was that the fighting wasn't happening between warriors and monsters, but civilians. And he could tell that the larger group was aiming to kill, while the other was just trying to defend themselves as best they could, but they were losing. One man stood out among the defenders, expertly wielding a two-handed crossbow, and he was the only one who was not hesitating to kill their attackers. Naruto and his group ran up to them immediately as Naruto tried to figure out what was going on.

"What the hell is going on here?!"

"More witnesses. Kill them!"

The attackers then turned on them but Naruto, Kharazim, Xul and his golem were beyond their capabilities. The three warriors and golem dealt with them swiftly. Naruto figured they were probably bandits, so he knew he had to deal with them accordingly, but he made sure to make it quick for them at least. Once they were dealt with, Naruto saw that two young men were frantically trying to help another older man that had a serious wound, and if it was not taken care of soon he would die. So he rushed over and immediately set up his barrier and got to work on healing the man, including the two young men that were caught inside. They felt Naruto's energy wash over them but they were too panicked or in too much pain to realize what was going on until it suddenly went away.

"It's alright. He's gonna be okay. No need to worry anymore."

The two men checked the wound again on the man's chest and found it to be completely healed, as the man himself sat up on his own and looked up at Naruto. The other men that were out there defending their families looked to Naruto in awe that he could heal a serious wound like that.

"Thank you. Thank you so much for saving us."

""Thank you for saving our father!"" said the two young men who helped get their father back on his feet.

"See! Didn't I tell you Mr. Lewis. My comrades arrived just in time! Let me introduce you! This here is uh, um, Gary!"

"I am Xul."

"Xul! Of course, how could I forget! Then this is uh, my good buddy Steve."

"Kharazim."

"Oh right, you changed your name didn't you? Haha. Forgot about that. And finally we have..."

"Cut the crap Lyndon! I know you don't know any of these men here!"

"Oh, haha. Got caught did I?"

"This is all your fault! You put my entire family and the others in danger! I want you gone, and you better stay away from Sasha or I'll kill you myself!"

"Oh dear. It seems I've been kicked out. Well gents, I say it's time to hit that old dusty trail once more eh?"

"Uh, sure I guess. Why don't you two take, Lyndon was it?" said Naruto.

"Right you are!"

"Right. Take him along with you to try and find that sword shard along the path we were taking. He looked like he could handle himself. I'll catch up with you in a bit. I just want a word with these people and see if everything's okay here." Kharazim and Xul reluctantly agreed as they could tell that this Lyndon character was not welcome here anymore, and they had a goal in mind on this particular outing that they needed to see done. So the three men moved from the others to continue the search.

"That man is nothing but trouble. You're better off leaving him for the scavengers."

"He did help protect you, you know. He can't be all that bad."

"He's still a scoundrel if you ask me."

"Maybe. Can you tell me what happened here?"

"Those bandits were after Lyndon. I think they were some old friends of his from what I heard them saying. I think one said they had to tie up loose ends or something."

"You wouldn't happen to know why they were after him would you?"

"He's a damned thief! I recently found out he was trying to use my daughter to get to our family heirloom! But if I had to guess, he was probably a part of the thieves guild. He did say he was from Kingsport, and that's where their main operations are rumored to be."

"Well if that's true, and they're after him, then that means he left the guild. I'll look into it later, but let's forget about him now. Is there anyone else here that's hurt? You said your family and others were here didn't you?"

"That's right. When all the wildlife and goatmen started to go crazy out here, the other farmers and their families came to our mill for shelter. Our home was built to defend against the wildlife so we would always allow them to take cover here during emergencies. They're all good friends of ours."

""Except for Crazy Caius!"" said the brothers.

"Crazy who?"

"That's not important, what is important is that we're all fine now thanks to you. The women and children stayed inside the walls while we tried to fend those bandits off. They are all unharmed and should still be inside the house."

"I'm glad. Just let them know that we're clearing out the fields here. There are two other groups out there searching for something that we need to retrieve."

"May I ask what that is?"

"It's a sword shard that fell from the sky a week ago. We're sure that is what's causing all the wildlife to run rampant out here. So we're going to take it back. Let the others know that the fields will be cleared by the end of the day and that they can return to their homes. Or you all can go to New Tristram if you're running low on supplies or if you need any other help."

"I see. Thank you so much for putting an end to this. The others will be happy to hear it. Can I get the name of the man who saved my life?"

"It's Naruto Uzumaki."

"You can call me Lewis. I'll let you be on your way then. Good luck out there."

"Thanks. You all stay safe."

---

Naruto caught up to the three men as they were in the middle of fighting more enemies and joined in. Naruto kept an eye on the newest guy, Lyndon, who was holding his own. He has black hair, with a bit of a receding hairline, and a mustache that reached down to his jaw bone. He wore an open green and brown long coat with high collars and brown pants, he had light steel gauntlets, pauldrons, boots, and chest armor along with two large quivers of bolts hanging from either side of his waist. The two-handed crossbow he was fighting with was made with a dark hard wood that had a long stock to rest against his shoulder, a spiked stirrup jutting out in the front, and a red drawstring (Demon Machine).

Overall Lyndon did well in covering for them as Naruto could tell that some of his bolts were even poisoned or explosive to cause extra damage. He had a little trouble dealing with things up close but he used some of his bolts as a quick dagger to defend himself. If he started to get overwhelmed, Naruto was there to cover him; he wasn't really going to let him be done in by scavengers. They finished clearing the area soon enough and found themselves at the end of the fields with no sign of the sword shard ever being seen.

"Well a good round of fighting is one way to fill an afternoon! Am I right gentlemen?"

"It gets the blood flowing at least."

"My thoughts exactly! You know, I've met Gary and Steve here but I didn't quite get your name." Kharazim looked a little annoyed being referred to by a name that isn't his, and Xul didn't really seem to care but his golem looked like it was annoyed for him.

"Haha, you better watch it. Gary and Steve might just kick your ass."

"Oh, nonsense! We've become the best of chaps during your time away. Right comrades?" Xul and Kharazim didn't bother to answer with Xul having an unimpressed look on his face and Kharazim seemed to be all business at the moment.

"… Right. Well my name's Naruto Uzumaki."

"Naruto? Strange name, but it's yours all the same. I'll try to remember it."

"I'm so glad."

"Well, what are strapping young lads like yourselves doing all the way out here?"

"We're here to find a sword shard that belongs to a man that fell from the sky a week ago. If you haven't noticed, the wildlife have been in a frenzy and the dead were even woken all around New Tristram. My group and I have dealt with it for the most part, but that man lost his memory and we believe the pieces of his sword will give them back. He said he came with a warning but he doesn't know what it is since he can't remember. That's why we need to find those pieces."

"Really? Fell right out of the sky, eh? Haha, maybe he's an angel; I wouldn't mind a pretty little angel falling into my lap. Am I right gents?! Hahaha!"

"Yeah, I'd tone down that kind of talk if I were you."

"Come now, we're all men here. In fact, there's too many men. What I'd give to have a couple lovely ladies to entertain me, but alas, that is far too expensive for me at the moment."

"Oh, would you like me to entertain you?" said Li-Ming as she and her group approached. She had a sweet smile on her face that admittedly looked more sinister than sweet and she had an arcane orb floating just in front of her wand, ready to unleash it if he said the wrong thing.

Lyndon turned around and saw Li-Ming and had to admit she looked dashing, but then he noticed the orb and her scary smile. Then he saw the other woman with this new group and loved the view of all the skin she was showing, but then he saw her two large swords firmly held in each hand, recently covered in blood. He knew right then that Naruto was trying to warn him and ended up sticking his foot in his mouth.

"Haha. No, no I was… I was just joking. You know how boys can be, haha… Please don't kill me."

"Good. I'm glad we understand each other." said Li-Ming as she dissipated her orb but kept up her scary smile.

"Who is this scoundrel?" asked Kormac with narrowed eyes. Already not liking the man.

"This is Lyndon. Lyndon, these are Li-Ming, Sonya and Kormac."

"Hello there everyone! We may have gotten off on the wrong foot a bit, but I'm really not that bad! I promise!"

"Yeah, well anyway, there was some trouble with bandits at the top of the hill at a mill a little ways back and we helped Lyndon take care of it. Turns out the farmers and their families took shelter there when things turned south around here."

"Oh good. So there are survivors. I was getting worried. We looked through two farmhouses on our way here and we didn't find anything. I'm glad."

"Me too Li-Ming, never should have doubted you."

"Of course you shouldn't."

"Haha, so no sword shard either huh?"

"Afraid not Naruto, but we did clear out all the enemies along the way. Perhaps Johanna and her group had better luck." said Sonya.

"You're probably right. Let's all backtrack down the center to meet up with them or see if they need help."

The now larger group moved back in the direction they came from by cutting through the middle of fields and ran into some more enemies, but with the majority of their group there plus one new addition, they had an even easier time defeating them. After another twenty minutes or so of fighting they came upon a cave that looked to be an old mine shaft and saw what looked like something had crashed into it through the top of the rock formation as it gave off a similar blue glow that the stranger left behind when he crashed into the cathedral. They decided to go inside and check to see if their other comrades had beat them to it.

And since there were already so many of them going in this mine shaft, Xul dismissed his golem once again to save some space and moved on ahead with the others. While it was sinking into the portal beneath its feet, Naruto started making annoying and stupid faces at it to mock it. The golem started growling at him not liking his gestures. Li-Ming saw this when she heard it growling and turned to Naruto.

"Really Naruto? Stop antagonizing Xul's golem! Act your age."

"But… but that thing has it out for me!"

"I'm sure it's just your imagination."

"He threw a quill fiend at me!"

"Now you're just making things up." Li-Ming then turned around and started walking into the mine shaft, tired of Naruto's excuses. As the golem's head was just sinking under, Naruto saw it smirk at him.

"Look! He's got that dumb smug smirk on his face! He's making fun of me!"

"Come now Naruto. He doesn't have any muscles on its skull, how can it smirk?"

"But… but… (sigh) Stupid golem, this isn't over yet!" Naruto decided to give up on trying to convince Li-Ming for now as he began mumbling to himself on how to get back at it next time.

"Our comrades were definitely here alright. Crushed bones, bolts, poisoned darts. That looks like their M. O." said Kormac as he and the others recognized the damage to more goatmen and other animals being inflicted by their three other comrades.

After a few more minutes of walking further into the mine shaft they heard a familiar voice. "Sorry, but you're all a little late to the party." said Johanna as she, Valla and Nazeebo came walking into view. "And another newcomer as well?"

"That's right! Fear not ladies, uh and gentleman, Lyndon is here! I am a man of many talents you could say. Oh, and a fellow archer! Perhaps, we can exchange notes in a more… private setting, hm?" Valla did not take kindly to his not so subtle proposition and threw a flurry of knives that had him pinned to the wall by his coat.

"Whoa! Oh, haha, y-you're a Demon Hunter aren't you? Should've known."

"I thought you learned the first time?" said Naruto.

"Sorry, old habits. I'll behave."

"Lyndon, these three that you haven't met yet are Johanna, Nazeebo and Valla. Just a warning, Valla has not only impeccable aim, and has proven she is one of the best archers in the world by finishing second in the Skovos Games, but she has great night vision as well. So you would stay a lot healthier if you didn't antagonize her."

"Noted, thanks for the warning."

"No problem. Well, now that everyone's met Lyndon, let's move on. Did you manage to find a piece to the sword?"

"Uh, can I get a little help here?" asked Lyndon, who was still hanging from the wall, but everyone ignored him for now and continued on. He just sighed and chose to calmly endure this punishment. They are so cruel, he just can't help himself sometimes!

"Indeed we did." Johanna said, indicating towards one of the quivers hanging from Valla's thigh, where they could see a piece of a broken sword sticking out. "But it seems like we'll have some competition in obtaining the other pieces."

"What happened?"

"A witch named Maghda appeared before us as an apparition, stating that they want the sword. It looks like she is the one who is the leader of this Coven and they believe the sword to be of great importance." said Valla.

"I'm assuming her Coven gave you some trouble."

"Indeed, the witch was able to summon Coven members before us but their efforts were in vain. We have defeated them soundly." said Nazeebo.

"Good, I'm glad you're all okay."

"She did leave us with a message though. She stated that the other piece of the sword lies only where the ancients may tread." said Johanna.

"Well I don't know what that means, but I'm sure Cain or Leah would probably know. These Coven people really don't know how to keep important information to themselves. It seems like a really bad habit."

"Let us be glad that they are not very smart then." said Li-Ming.

"I guess so. Let's get back to the village and see what they can tell us." Naruto then moved to Lyndon and took out all the knives that kept him in place and gave them back to Valla.

"No! Don't give them back to her!"

"No sense in letting them go to waste."

"Thank you Naruto."

"Don't mention it Valla."

"Well Lyndon, you don't have to stick around anymore if you don't want. We still have a lot of work ahead of us and it will just get more dangerous."

"Hmm, it has been a while since I went out adventuring with so many wonderfully gifted people. Maybe I'll stick around for a little while, just until I get back on my feet." Naruto could hear the underlying message of safety in numbers. If this Thieves Guild was really after him, he would have a better chance of surviving if he wasn't on his own. And if they could track him down once then they could do it again. Just as long as he pulled his own weight then he didn't really mind.

"I don't mind, but I can't speak for everyone." Naruto gave a look around and he could see that Li-Ming, Valla and Kormac weren't really happy about it but they made no protest. "Alright then, you can come with us, but just… watch what you say. If you dig yourself into another hole, don't expect any of us to dig you out."

"Haha, I-I'll keep that in mind."

---

After explaining once again Naruto's Hiraishin technique to the three newest additions, they were all in the middle of New Tristram. If they experienced any sort of discomfort from the quick jump, Kharazim and Xul did not voice it out loud, but Lyndon had been the most surprised and appeared to have a strong case of vertigo as his legs were a bit shaky.

"Holy! I haven't felt that dizzy since I snuck into my first bar! This brings back… conflicting memories. Haha!"

"Have you no shame you heathen?"

"Nope, at least not the last time I checked! Who are you again?"

"I am Kormac of the Templar Order."

"A Templar eh? No wonder you don't have a sense of humor. Templars are soooo boring!"

"Why yo…"

"Alright boys, settle down." said Li-Ming. "We have other matters to worry about."

""Yes ma'am!"" Li-Ming had a grin on her face as she took a sense of enjoyment from their quick response. While Kormac's response was more out of respect, Lyndon's was more out of fear. Either way, she could get used to that.

The group gathered around the front door of Cain's house as Naruto knocked so they could speak to him. After a few moments, Leah opened the door and was glad to see they were all okay and let them in to see what they found. Everyone explained what happened during their own fights and Leah and Cain were introduced to Lyndon, and he actually managed to behave when he met Leah, despite her being the most harmless of the women there. Once Nazeebo and his group got through their own summary of events, this left Leah and Cain to think on the message the witch Maghda had left them with.

"You know, that sounds like it could be the Drowned Temple, I remember you telling me about it uncle."

"Good Leah, very good. You are absolutely right. That ancient temple was home to the Nephalem; the first children born from the union of angel and demon."

"Seriously? Angels and demons, procreated? How does that happen?"

"Oh? Has Naruto not learned where babies come from? Is Li-Ming going to have to explain the birds and the bees to you?" Li-Ming said in a mocking manner and some of the others gave a chuckle, but Leah and Kormac grew a bit red in the face, not really used to such talk.

"Ooh! Ooh! Let me help! I can give all sorts of details of how babies are made. Don't worry Naruto, uncle Lyndon will guide you down the path to manhood." said Lyndon as he put an arm around Naruto's shoulders.

Naruto wasn't fazed by this at all and took their teasing in stride, as he knew all too well the art of conception. He gently lifted Lyndon's hand off his shoulder and away from him as he responded dryly, but not giving anything away. "Yeah, no. I know how babies are made. What I know you know what I meant was that aren't angels and demons supposed to be mortal enemies? I figured they would hate each other too much to even think about creating a life together."

"There are always those who tire of war and seek peace after countless millennia enduring it, but I am afraid that should be a tale for another day. Leah, you know the path to the Drowned Temple, and with your knowledge I believe you will be of great help to our friends here. I am far too old to travel like I used to, so I will leave it to you to be their guide."

"Okay uncle, I'll do my best."

"That is all I can ask of you Leah. Naruto, may I ask that you continue to watch over Leah, while you are away?"

"Of course Cain. You don't even need to ask, I'll make sure she stays safe."

"Thank you."

Leah was still a little put off and embarrassed of having to be watched over, but she knew that she was probably the weakest one out of everyone there, so she decided not to make a fuss over it this time. From the stories she heard from the others about him, she had already figured that Naruto would look after everyone regardless of who they are or how strong they are. At the same time she also felt grateful and relieved, knowing that she was in good hands with Naruto watching over her. They all soon made their way out of Cain's house and into the town square.

"We still have some daylight ahead of us, but not for too long, so we should get started. Well Leah, you are the guide so, lead the way!"

"It's pretty far away actually, up to the north. There is a waypoint near that location that I've been to before but I would be the only one who has access to it since the rest of you haven't been there to activate it yet. If only there was… Wait! Your kunai thing! If I go on ahead with the waypoint and use that kunai you gave me, we can have everyone there in no time!"

"That does sound like it would be the easiest way, but I don't like that you're going ahead of us. We don't know what could be around there."

"That's true Naruto, but she wouldn't be alone for very long. We will be there immediately after her." said Li-Ming.

"I guess so, but I don't want to take any chances. Leah, have that kunai ready and everyone else grab a hold of me. When you get there, make sure there's a big enough clearing and throw it right away."

"Okay, I understand."

They all gathered in front of the waypoint in the center of town to see Leah off, and everyone else gathered around Naruto and placed a hand on him to get ready to leave. It was a bit of an awkward sight for everyone in that part of town to see nine different warriors all holding onto Naruto like that. Leah thought it was amusing too as she stared at them, burning the image into her memory.

"Uh, are you ready to go yet?"

"Sorry, you all just look a little funny with everyone standing around you like that. Like if it was a group hug or something. It's kind of cute." Naruto just snickered to himself, while some of the others were a little put off.

"Can you please just hurry so we can get this over with." said Valla.

"Okay, I'm on my way. See you soon!" In a brief flash of light Leah was gone. After a few short moments they were all standing on a stone pathway surrounded by dense shrubbery and trees. The pathway was lined with short stone pillars that looked to be centuries old but were still overall in good condition. Naruto picked up the kunai at his feet and handed it back to Leah as she spoke to them. "We should be close by, but we still have to travel a little ways before we reach the temple. I believe it's this way, follow me."

"So you've never actually been to this temple before, Leah?" asked Johanna.

"No. My uncle has, but he wasn't able to enter it, and he told me that it is guarded by an ancient Nephalem spirit named Alaric."

"What are the Nephalem if you don't mind me asking, aside from being half angel half demon." said Naruto.

"Well, the Nephalem were the first humans."

"Really? Then doesn't that make everyone living in Sanctuary a Nephalem."

"No, it's a bit more complicated than that and has a long story, but I'll try my best and sum it up. Like my uncle alluded to before, many angels and demons grew tired of their eternal war and sought to escape it. So a group of them made peace with each other and banded together to take the Worldstone. With the Worldstone they created Sanctuary, their own paradise free from war. That is when the angels and demons started falling in love with each other and the very first Nephalem were born. Those firstborns were initially called the Ancients and they were immortal just like their parents. Some of the Ancients that are still known today are actually worshiped as deities; like Bul-Kathos of the Barbarians, Rathma of the Necromancers, Vasily of the Druids, Esu of the sorceresses, and Philios is said to be the father of the first two Askari Queens that named the main island of the Skovos Isles after him."

"So, many of these Ancients created their own culture basically."

"That's right, but the parents of the Ancients grew afraid of them because they came to learn that they were even far stronger than the angels and demons. They feared that they would one day turn on them or bring the attention of the High Heavens or the Burning Hells to Sanctuary. So, many of the angels and demons who fled the Eternal Conflict thought it would be better to kill their children to avoid another war. Of course there were many who opposed such a thing, but they didn't know what to do either. I'm a little fuzzy on some of the details, but in the end the Worldstone was used to slowly diminish the power of the Nephalem over time, with each generation getting weaker than the last and their lifespans declining. The Nephalem eventually became mortal and left with very little power, and that was when the rise of humans came about, with the majority of them having no knowledge of their legacy. It's only through old texts and some Ancient Nephalem ghosts like Alaric, that we even have any knowledge at all about our past."

"That sounds crazy, so these Ancients and later the Nephalem were once immortal and capable of incredible powers, but their powers were diminished over time that eventually led to humanity. But these Nephalem are all extinct now?"

"We're not exactly sure. My uncle believes that with the destruction of the Worldstone, there is a chance that the Nephalem can make a resurgence, but it's all just speculation at this point."

"What about this Alaric guy, are we gonna have to fight him to get through to the temple?" asked Naruto. He wasn't the only one surprised by Sanctuary's history. Many of the others could only imagine what the Nephalem were once capable of.

"I don't think so? But I'm not really sure. We'll just have to see and find out. There's no telling what we'd have to do to gain entrance."

It was anyone's guess as to what they would have to do to enter the temple, but whatever happens they would be prepared. They moved along the path for another dozen or so minutes when they came to the edge of a staircase leading down. What stood in front of them was a giant ancient stone temple that looked to be built within a crevice or canyon, as a thick mist surrounded the lower portion, which was thick enough to not allow anyone to see how far deep into the earth the temple went. There were many tall columns standing at the front and at the center of the temple there was a massive stone face staring straight ahead. The loud sound of rushing waters could also be heard flowing beneath the temple, which indicated waterfalls that were responsible for the mist. Two more flights of stairs down led to a large raised platform with ancient runes carved into it that led to a ledge as the temple was not connected to any land. There was about a fifty foot gap between the temple entrance and the ledge.

"So with all the running water I'm hearing, I guess that's why they call it the Drowned Temple?" asked Naruto as they all began the slow trek down the stairs to reach its base.

"Yes, my uncle says that the temple has been slowly sinking into the earth for years now. Eventually it will be lost forever beneath the running waters. But no one has been able to enter the temple since the last of the Nephalem died out. I would love to explore it and document what's within before it is lost to the ages though."

"You just might get your chance. But it looks like we weren't the only ones trying to get in." Naruto indicated to a few recently killed Coven members, whose bodies were laid out on the platform near the ledge.

"The Coven were trying to get in to get another piece of the shard, but something killed them. But even if they weren't killed I don't think they could have gotten in anyway." said Li-Ming.

"Why do you say that?" asked Leah.

"I can sense a magical barrier surrounding this temple. Someone has sealed it away."

"You are correct stranger. This temple is sealed away." As they reached the base of the last flight of stairs, they all heard the sound of a deep voice they could not pinpoint, until they saw a ghost bathed in an ethereal blue fire appear up from beneath the mist to stand on the ledge in front of them.

"You're Alaric aren't you? The guardian of this temple. Uncle Deckard told me about you." said Leah.

"No, I do not guard this temple. I am simply here to watch over it and wait for the next coming of the Ancients to open the path. Only those who have awakened the blood of the Nephalem can unlock the secrets within. If you are worthy, the way will be made clear and the world will know that the Nephalem walk amongst them once again. If you wish to test your fate, then step forward, the temple will determine if you are worthy."

"But there have been no Nephalem for a millennium."

"If you truly believe so then turn back, those who are deemed unworthy will have their fate sealed." Alaric then indicated to the Coven bodies that lay at his feet to emphasize his point.

"Well, this was a fun field trip, but I guess it's time we head back now! Maybe next time!" said Lyndon.

"We can't go back, we need that shard." said Li-Ming.

"Well if any of you want to test your fate go right ahead, but count me out. I already know that I'm unworthy, and I enjoy breathing after all."

"I am afraid that I must agree with the scoundrel. I do not believe that I am worthy either. If there is anyone destined for that honor I believe it could be any one of you. I truly believe that." said Kormac.

"What should we do?" asked Leah. Everyone was unsure and didn't know if they could take a leap of faith like that. None of them had the confidence to believe that they were Nephalem so they were all hesitant to try their luck. Naruto however, made the choice for them as he stepped up onto the raised platform. "Naruto?"

"I want you all to stay back. If this doesn't work, go back to New Tristram and speak to Cain. You'll have to find another way to get in."

"Stop being an idiot for once! If this doesn't work, do you expect us to just stand here and watch you die!" shouted Li-Ming.

"I have the best chance of surviving whatever may happen. This is the best option we have right now. I won't ask any of you to do something that I'm not willing to do myself."

"Naruto don't do this, we can all go back and speak with my uncle now. We can find another way!" Even with his back turned, Naruto could tell they all had worried looks on their faces, well aside from Xul, but even he was looking on with rapt attention.

"I'll be fine guys. Trust me."

'Naruto, I don't think this is a good idea.'

'I don't know what else to do Kurama. We have to get into that temple, and I'd rather put myself at risk then any of them. They don't have a healing factor like I do, and I have to see what we're up against.'

'Why not just break the place open?' said Shukaku.

'I don't want to risk destroying that shard, and it isn't my place to go destroying ancient monuments like this. I'm sure that would upset a whole lot of people out there.'

'Fine brat, just be prepared.'

"Are you ready to face your fate?" asked Alaric.

"Yes." As soon as Naruto answered, the runes on the platform started to glow beneath him and the eyes of the giant face across from him started to radiate a beam of soft blue light that engulfed his entire body. That's when he felt it, pain. He tried to fight through it but his whole body felt like it was boiling. The others could see him tense up and they could see his veins bulging and throbbing on the back of his neck, his forearms and hands. He couldn't take it anymore and he fell to his knees and yelled out to the sky from the pain. "AAAAAHHH!"

""Naruto!""

Li-Ming, Leah and the others moved on instinct; forgetting Naruto's words to stay back. When the light from the temple first came forth, Li-Ming, Nazeebo, Valla, Sonya, Johanna, Leah, Kharazim, and Xul felt as if they were drawn to the light that engulfed Naruto. It wasn't until they heard his screams that they moved to cover him. Li-Ming and Leah were the quickest to move, with Li-Ming standing protectively in front of Naruto to block the light with her own body and Leah rushed to his downed form to cradle his head into her shoulder as he yelled into her. Leah could immediately feel the heat coming off his body, he was burning from the inside. The others, aside from Kormac and Lyndon who stayed back watching helplessly, formed a wall in front of Naruto standing side by side with Li-Ming in the middle. They all unconsciously started to push their energies forward, as if to make a shield to block the light.

They were all expecting to feel the same pain that Naruto was feeling but all they felt was warmth as the light engulfed them. After they all stood on the platform and began to radiate their energies, the runes beneath them started to blink, flashing and fading rapidly. The light from the eyes of the stone face began to be pushed back by their combined energies until it was forced back into the temple. Then they saw that the light that was once aimed at them was shot into the sky from the top of the temple as if it was a beacon sending a message to the world. Unknown to them, all across Sanctuary similar temples reacted in the same way as they lit up the sky for everyone to see. They then heard the sound of stone rubbing against stone and saw the mouth of the face begin to open, revealing the entrance. They then heard and felt rumbling beneath them and soon after, more stone platforms began to rise from beneath the mist, extending a bridge to the temple to allow them entry.

"The path, is now made clear to all. So many Nephalem gathered in one place after all these centuries, I have longed for the time I would see this day. But even more intriguing, the one deemed as unworthy survived the temple's tribulation. Such a feat has been unheard of."

Alaric's words broke them out of their marvel of what just happened in front of them and they all immediately turned around to see to their downed ally. Leah was still holding him but it looked as if he had passed out from the pain but he was still breathing, much to their relief. Especially, those who had been traveling and fighting alongside him the longest. Li-Ming turned him over in Leah's arms to make sure he was okay by checking his vitals and to see if there were any injuries they couldn't see. As she felt for his pulse she could feel the heat coming from his skin, which was far too hot for any human to be capable of withstanding. It was really a wonder how he survived.

"Thank god! He's okay. That moron, why does he always do this?" said Li-Ming as she wiped away a few unshed tears, initially believing the worst.

Leah as well had tears in her eyes as his screams of pain were already starting to haunt her. He was so strong and confident all the time, and he's done so much for the villagers, for her and her uncle. It just didn't feel right to see him like this; even when he took that blow from the unburied inside of Old Tristram that left a gaping hole in his side; he was up soon after as if he wasn't just bleeding out a few moments prior. Nazeebo, Valla, Sonya and Johanna were of the same mindset, they never thought they could see Naruto so vulnerable. He always bounced back even after every debilitating blow, but he is still unconscious. It worried them greatly.

"It is his nature. He was the only one of us strong enough to survive something like this. So he put his own body at risk to spare us the pain and suffering." said Nazeebo solemnly.

"I don't understand. He is stronger than any of us, I know this. How is it that he is unworthy, while we stand here unscathed?" said Sonya.

"The eight of you are far more special than you realize. The blood of the Ancients flows through your veins. You… are Nephalem." said Alaric.

"You don't understand Alaric. The prophecy the Crusaders were told, led us to believe that the one we searched for had the power to rival or even surpass the Ancients. There is no doubt in my mind that this man is the one we have searched for, the light within him is undeniable. If anyone would be Nephalem, it should be him."

"That is not possible, the Temple of the Ancients makes no mistakes. The man that lies before you may perhaps be special in his own way, but Nephalem, he is not."

Everyone looked down to see the man lying in Leah's arms, and think over Alaric's words. Kharazim, Xul and Lyndon are the only ones who have yet to see any of Naruto's real power in action but the others who have been with him longer know he is not someone to be ignored. Especially for Li-Ming and Nazeebo who saw Naruto revive the dead, and summon a monstrous beast, and Valla who witnessed his power firsthand as he destroyed a small mountain, it was unthinkable for them to believe that Naruto could be denied in such a manner. What does this mean? What secrets does he continue to hide from them?

"… Kormac, Lyndon. Help Leah watch over him. There shouldn't be any trouble around here but keep them both safe." Li-Ming said in a surprisingly serious manner. She was upset, she thought she lost someone important to her and she is getting tired of all his recklessness, and the mysteries that continue to surround Naruto are starting to grate her nerves. She just wanted to get this over with quickly.

""Yes ma'am."" The two did as they were told and helped get Naruto off of the platform and put him near the base of the stairs, where Leah took out her canteen and wet a handkerchief she had to try and cool Naruto down. Leah did want to go into the temple to see it but she couldn't even think about that right now. Naruto was her main concern, so entering the temple didn't even cross her mind at the moment.

"We're going on ahead. We'll be back as soon as we can."

"Be warned strangers. Now that the temple has been awoken, so too have the dangers within. The same can be said for all Nephalem edifices across Sanctuary. They are now open for all to enter, but those who intrude unprepared, will only find death awaiting them."

"… Let's go."

No one wanted to dispute Li-Ming's orders, and they really had no reason to, so the seven warriors moved forward across the bridge and into the temple to retrieve that sword shard. Before they left, Nazeebo summoned his gargantuan to stay behind and Valla set up two turrets to help Kormac and Lyndon if they needed it, just for extra precaution.

---

'Where am I?'

'You're in your mindscape, you're unconscious.' said Gyuki.

'Ugh. What happened?'

'Your fleshy body couldn't handle the strain from that energy. We had to cover your vital organs in our chakra to prevent them from bursting, even then it was difficult.' said Kurama.

'But how, I just remember getting really hot. Having used Kokuo's Boil Release, I should be able to handle my body overheating.'

'It wasn't the heat that was killing you, it was the energy. Whatever that energy was, it is far older then even us. Just because our chakra is strong and potent on its own doesn't make you immune to foreign energies, especially ones as ancient as that. You have to stop thinking your so invincible Naruto. We still know very little about this world. We don't know what else is out there.'

'He's right Naruto-kun. We understand your reasons, and you most likely are the only person on this world to survive such a thing, but we need you, they need you.' said Matatabi.

'Come on, you sound like if I could…'

'Die? We don't know Naruto-kun. Our father said that you are beyond time, so you can't die of old age, but does that mean you cannot be killed? To be honest, none of us are really sure. You have survived many critical injuries in the past and by my count you have actually died twice, but someone was always there to bring you back. Perhaps you really can't be killed, but do you really want to take that risk?'

Naruto could see all the Biju looking at him in concern. They really are a part of his family; they care about and love him and he feels the same towards them. If he is able to die here the Biju would probably be stuck on this world and forced to fight for an eternity. The people would treat them as demons, the angels would also see them as demons and since they would never side with the forces of hell, the actual demons would see them as enemies as well. They would be alone and surrounded on all sides. So no, he couldn't take that risk.

'You know, with how old I am I didn't think I could still be lectured like this after all this time, but I guess there's always something to learn huh? But to answer your question Matatabi, no, I can't take that risk. I'm sorry, I promise I'll look after myself better from now on.'

'Good. Now rest, your friends will be fine, so there is nothing to worry about.'

Naruto lied on his back again and shut his eyes to allow his mind to rest as the Biju continued to work on healing his body. If they said that his friends would be fine then he will trust them and take the opportunity to rest.

---

"He is a lucky man, that one." said Lyndon.

"I know. I don't know how he could have survived such a thing. He was in so much pain." Leah said as she continued to wipe down his face, already feeling his body cooling down.

"Well yes, there is that. But I was thinking more along the lines of, so many women with concern in their eyes just for him! Such a lucky man! Now if only they could look at me in such a way."

"I think it's because they are all close friends of his and they look up to him because he has helped so many people. I look up to him as well. He's done so much for me and the village. So it's not surprising we would be worried about him."

"Leah is right, this man and his allies saved my life. He is someone I admire greatly; his ferocity to his enemies, his kindness to the innocent. It shames me greatly that I did not have the courage to defend him when he needed it most."

"Don't say that Kormac. If you had gone up there like me and the others you could have possibly been killed. Naruto wouldn't want that."

"You are right. Forgive me."

"It is intriguing though isn't it? If what Sonya and Johanna said was true, and this man is a greater force than even they are, why is it that he was nearly killed while you and the others don't even have a scratch?" said Lyndon.

"I don't know. I'm surprised that it even recognized me as a Nephalem. All of them are so much stronger than I am. I'm always the one who needs to be protected, so how can I of all people be seen as one of them?"

"The world works in mysterious ways Leah. Do not doubt yourself. I am sure the time will come when your prowess will be known to all."

"Thanks Kormac."

"Ooh! This gets me so excited! This means that I'm surrounded by magnificently fantastical people! And Kormac. If I stay with you lot I'm sure to become famous! I can ride on your coattails all the way through to glory! And I'll have more women than I know what to do with and…"

"Yeah, and at the same time you'll be put in more danger than you could probably handle. So go right ahead and hop along, but don't blame us if you meet an early grave."

"Naruto! You're awake! How do you feel?" said Leah.

"Like crap." Naruto tried to sit up but the strain on his muscles was still too much right now, and Leah saw this as she placed a hand on his chest to keep him down.

"Don't get up, just rest for now. You've done enough."

"Haha. Y-you know I was just kidding about all that right? Old buddy?"

"Whatever you say Lyndon. How are we all doing? Where is everybody?"

"The others went on ahead into the temple to retrieve the shard."

"The temple opened up?"

"Yes, w-when you started screaming, myself and the others that went on ahead, moved to protect you. It turns out that we were all Nephalem, and the temple raised a bridge to let us through."

"Is that so? That's impressive."

"Yes. It even recognized me as one, surprising right?"

"Not really. I could tell you were someone special the first day we met. So you being a Nephalem isn't surprising at all to me."

Leah felt herself blush at his words, he really believed she was something special even before he got to know her. It made her happy to hear him compliment her like that but she didn't believe she could live up to his expectations. "Really? But how can you say that? I'm so much weaker than all of you. I'm the one that has to be protected, I'm just useless."

"You are not useless Leah! It doesn't matter how weak or strong you are, anyone can make a difference, even you. You said you had problems controlling your power right? If you need help with that, I'm more than willing to help you get control over them. If you want to become stronger and protect what is precious to you then I will help you do that, but the choice is ultimately yours."

"I… I want to get stronger. Please help me."

"I will. When we have some downtime, I'll work with you to gain control over your powers. I promise that you'll realize for yourself just how special you are."

"Thank you."

---

"This architecture is something else isn't it? I've never seen ruins like this." said Johanna.

"Yes, I believe there is a temple like this within the Teganze as well, but the spirits always advised us to stay away from such a place. It may have also been sealed away, but if it is truly open to all now, I pray that my brethren continue to heed the warnings of the spirits."

"Well, we have yet to run into any dangers so far within this place." said Sonya.

"Do not drop your guard. The gods themselves once dwelled within these hallowed grounds." said Kharazim.

They all continued to move forward and into the lower levels of the temple. The stone halls had smaller carvings lining the walls, of the same stone face as the entrance. Soon they could hear the sounds of rushing water once again up ahead and they came to a more open area with the walkway they were on becoming a bridge across a deep chasm. The bridge led to another area that was flooded with water that was flowing over the edges deeper into the temple.

"Look up ahead. More skeletal warriors and archers. The sword shard must have awoken these beings as well. We will have to deal with them to get through." said Valla.

"Take heed. Those bones are ancient. They must be the dead Nephalem of the past. They will prove to be more difficult to lay to rest." said Xul. With him being a Necromancer, everyone made sure to listen well to his words. He would know better then most the strength of the dead.

They moved forward cautiously but they were spotted as soon as they crossed the bridge, and had to engage them. Sonya and Johanna were joined by Kharazim this time on the front lines engaging them directly and they were followed by Xul's golem right after. These skeletons were indeed stronger than those they fought previously within the cathedral. The majority of these risen warriors were nearly on the level of the champion monsters they had faced before, so they were not falling very easily. However, the incident with Naruto was still fresh in their minds, but instead of clouding their judgment, the memory of his pained screams seemed to make them more focused.

Li-Ming, Nazeebo, Valla, Sonya, and Johanna kept remembering the times he put himself in danger to protect them, or when he would take over the battle when they were becoming overwhelmed. None of them really believed that they deserved the distinction of being called Nephalem when Naruto had clearly been the more capable fighter, and has impacted the lives of so many people across Sanctuary already. Despite his, at times, childish demeanor, they all believed that he was someone special, someone they would follow without hesitation. Because of this they could feel their resolve steadily gaining strength. They didn't want to have to be protected or forced to watch from the sidelines as their friend burdened himself with everything.

They have been fighting alongside him the longest, but they always felt that he was still just watching over them, making sure they were safe; so his mind was always on two things at once. They wanted to get stronger, needed to get stronger so that he wouldn't have to divide his focus and worry about protecting them. They wanted to be strong enough so that he would believe in them to take care of themselves.

Their resolve was starting to become clear, as they fought with an intensity they have yet to see in themselves. Kharazim and Xul could feel the surging energies of their comrades and the greater ferocity in which they fought and they fed off that feeling, urging their own bodies not to fall behind. All their instincts were on high alert as the battle soon became a one-sided onslaught that their enemies could not overcome.

Alaric was watching the fight from a distance and what he saw only reaffirmed to him that the Nephalem had indeed returned to Sanctuary once again. As the last of their enemies fell he approached them as they took the short reprieve to catch their breath.

"Can you see it now? Can you feel it within you? Your strength rivals that of our greatest champions. What now do you think you are?"

"It's still not enough. This level of power still does not compare to his. He will always be several steps in front of us. But… as long as he lets me stand beside him, on my own two feet, I won't stop getting stronger. I won't." said Li-Ming.

"Well spoken. You will make your ancestors proud. I just hope this man you speak so highly of, lives up to your expectations." With that said Alaric turned towards a wall and with a hand gesture lowered it down for them to pass through. And just beyond that wall was the sword shard, stabbed within a small crater, they were searching for.

"How did…" Before Li-Ming could finish her question of how he knew what they were looking for, Alaric's form had already disappeared.

Valla did not wait for the others and moved to retrieve it and put the shard inside her quiver again. "Let us hurry and make our way back, it is probably getting dark outside. Hopefully that idiot is up by now."

Having got what they came for, there was no need to stay any longer, and they did want to get back quickly to make sure Naruto and the others were okay. It didn't take them too long to get back and they could see that the companions they left behind were having a conversation, including Naruto, but he was still laid on the ground, much to their worry.

"Friend Naruto, how do you fare?" asked Sonya.

"Yo! What's up guys, everything went okay in there?"

"Yes, we have the shard, but how are you feeling?" said Johanna.

"I'm doing great!"

"Then why are you still on the ground? Idiot." said Valla.

"Oh that! I'm just… you know, making sure the ground is balanced. Xul knows what I'm talking about!" Xul just gave him a blank stare, not amused in the slightest about him referencing his people's goal of upholding the balance. "O-kay."

"And here I thought this experience would mature you some."

"So mean, Johanna."

"What should we do now? We don't know where the last piece of the shard could be." said Leah.

"It is getting too late to continue searching, especially without any leads, and Naruto is in no condition to travel right now. We have two of the shards in our possession, so even if the Coven gets their hands on the third they can do nothing with it. So we don't have to worry about it too much right now. Let us go back to town to rest." said Valla.

"How are we going to get back with…"

"Don't worry Leah. I can still use my chakra, for the most part. Everyone just uh… stick a foot underneath me I guess. As long as we're in contact my Hiraishin will still work. Hey! Don't kick me!" When Naruto looked to see who it was that basically kicked him while putting their foot underneath his side, he saw Li-Ming, who hadn't said anything to him since they got back, staring at him with an unreadable expression. 'Crap. She's mad at me.' He could tell she was upset with him and thought best to not antagonize her any further, so he said nothing. Once he felt they were all ready, he used the Hiraishin and they were all back in the town square.

---

"Oh my! They really can pop out of nowhere."

"Yes, it really surprised me the first time I saw them do that."

"I take it you all had an… enlightening experience."

"You could say that." As they all moved away from Naruto, Myriam and Mira could see Naruto lying on the ground at their feet, and Li-Ming headed straight for the inn still without saying anything to him.

"Oh no! Naruto, are you hurt?"

"Hey Mira, Myriam. Don't worry, I'm alright. I just need to rest a bit and I'll be good as new!"

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

"Well, we have dinner waiting for you all right here. It is a recipe of Myriam's, you should all eat and fill your bellies."

"It is a traditional Vecin stew called janija. Help yourselves, Mira helped Myriam make plenty!"

"All you guys go ahead, I just need to rest right now. And can someone take some to Li-Ming? I'm sure she's hungry too."

"I'll take a bowl to her. I'm probably going straight to bed afterward and my room is in the inn, so."

"Thanks Leah."

"No problem."

"And for Kharazim, Xul and Lyndon, there should be some empty rooms in the bunker for you to stay in as well, so make yourselves at home!"

"Will do!"

"That is appreciated."

"Thank you."

"Would you like me to carry you to your room Naruto?" said Sonya.

"Nah, it's alright. That's what clones are for!" After a simple hand-sign and a poof of smoke later a single clone was standing beside Naruto looking down at him. A moment later the clone grabbed one of his ankles and started to drag him to the door of the bunker. "What are you doing?! Carry me you idiot!"

"Hmm, don't really feel like it, this is easier."

"I hate you clones so much!"

"No you don't. If you hate us then you hate yourself, but we all know how narcissistic you are."

"You're narcissistic!"

"Exactly, you're not as dumb as people think you are."

"Why me?!" Everyone just sat there around the campfire with food in hand watching and listening to Naruto argue with his clone. When they made it to the bunker entrance they could hear his head bouncing off the steps as they went down and Naruto's continued cursing at his clone.

"Every time I see him interact with his clones, it always turns into something weird or disturbing. I don't think I'll ever get used to it." said Valla.

"I… have to agree. It is the first time I have seen a man argue with himself without it being inside his own head. He has a… curious personality." said Kharazim.

"That's putting it mildly." The group lapsed into silence as they ate, and Mira and Myriam said their goodnights as they went to their own wagons to get to sleep. Kharazim had been thinking about the words some of the others had spoken earlier and wanted to ask about it, as he looked towards Sonya and Johanna.

"The words you and the Wizard spoke of earlier, to the Nephalem spirit. Are they true?"

"Do you mean when we spoke of Naruto being more worthy of the title of Nephalem?" said Johanna.

"Yes."

"Every word we spoke held no deceit. Naruto, is unlike any warrior I have ever witnessed. The ease in which battle comes to him is unparalleled. Having fought side by side with him on the front lines, I have seen no real urgency in his movements during combat, and his breathing always remains calm and steady. It may sound strange, but sometimes he looks almost lazy during a fight. Even when he gets injured or takes crippling blows, it has never really subdued him for very long at all. Until now that is." said Sonya.

"It's true. When the time comes for you to bask in his light, you will understand. When I first stood within its presence, I felt it in the core of my very being. He is far more capable than he allows us to see." said Johanna.

"I have to agree with them. I saw his power firsthand. Right before my eyes, he erased an entire mountain, and it did not even put any strain on him that I could see. It was incredible and terrifying. He may act like an idiot, but he is not an enemy I would wish to make."

"I see. If this is true but he was denied the distinction of Nephalem, then… what is he?"

No one there could give a definitive answer to that question. They have heard him say that he's a sage but he has never used what he calls his sage techniques during a fight. He has only used it to heal people. Those that have known him the longest just realized that they don't really know very much about him, like who his people were or their history. And all previous conversations with him makes them recognize that he knows very little about Sanctuary at all. Whoever their mysterious comrade is, they just hope that the trust and faith they put in him isn't misplaced.