Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and Tales of Vesperia they are the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, Namco Bandai, Namco Tales studio and producer Hideo Baba.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Bold Kurama speaking

(Kurama speaking through Naruto)

*Ba'ul speaking*

Chapter 14 Conspiracy, War and Ghasfarost

(Location: The Den of Guilds Dahngrest Tolbicya continent Terca Lumireis)

The party has finally returned to the guild city after their journey to the forest Keiv Moc. It was easier to return they barely encountered any monsters on their way to the city. Maybe it had something to do with the problem solved of the out of control aer that coming from the aer krene from the forest. In all honesty the genius mage from Aspio had anything to do with the solved problem when all the credit has been given to the mysterious stranger known as Duke. It was amazing to actually witnessed the silver haired man able to use the strange sword he was wielding to be able to manipulate the aer and use it against the rampaging monsters. In addition he has saved their lives now that the problem has been taken care of, they were now on their way to see the Don if he can provide information to the whereabouts of the Blood Alliance. They needed information to know where they can find the guild's leader Barbos.

They journey to Union headquarters has been quiet even with Raven traveling with the party. In fact it has become like that since they left Keiv Moc, maybe it had something to do with a comment said by the silver haired man. Ever since he has said those words the group has been in deep thought concerning a certain whiskered companion. Duke's words were still ringing in their head when he mentioned Naruto was from another world. They thought many questions thinking hard what he was talking about or what did he meant, when it sounded crazy. But it wasn't that crazy since they knew the blond had different abilities that weren't normal from their world, including performing techniques without the use of a bodhi blastia. Everyone from Estelle, Karol, and Raven had their eyes on the blond with the exception of Yuri and Rita they looked normal and they were only focus in getting to their destination. They were dying to know if it was true that their companion didn't belong in this world and curiosity was really getting to them.

(Skit title: Naruto's origin part 3)

Estelle, Karol and Raven are present.

Estelle: do you think what that man said about Naruto is true?

Karol: I don't know but I'm really curious to know. I want to know if it's true.

Raven: ya think that kid Naruto is from another world?

Estelle: I honestly don't know, we've never ask him of his home town. It has never occurred to us.

Karol: maybe we should ask him. I'm sure he won't be bothered if we do, right?

Yuri arrives.

Yuri: what's going on? You guys are getting far behind.

Estelle: Yuri, do you think it will be all right if we ask Naruto about his hometown?

Yuri: his hometown? Does this have to do with what that guy at Keiv Moc said?

Karol: I can't take it anymore I have to know if it's true!

Raven: jeez calm down kid, you know curiosity kill the cat.

Karol: but I'm not a cat!

Raven: *sweat dropped* that's not the point.

Yuri: *sighs* listen it's not my business to know about that, and neither any of you. I once said that's it not our business if he doesn't want to tell us. If it's too personal for him then he has a right not to tell us, if he feels like telling then it's his choice.

Estelle: but don't you think we have a right to know, as his friends I mean?

Yuri: I know what you're saying but the one who has the last word is Naruto. I want all of you to forget about this whole thing. Don't bring it in front of him and don't bother asking him, because he will obviously not say a word.

Raven: ya know, ya sure sound quite protective of the kid.

Yuri: not protective just stating the truth, protection is the least he needs.

Karol: man *mumbling* I really want to know.

Raven: looks like curiosity will be killing you.

Karol: that's not funny!

Estelle: hmm…I wonder what Rita thinks. Does she know about Naruto's hometown?

They reached Union headquarters and the same guild member as the guard in the entrance smiled at them letting them entered the building. It looks like the Don was expecting them to come and he has told the guard to give them access inside of headquarters. They traveled the long corridor heading to a center area with three doors, one to the left, and another to the right with a guild member guarding it and the third door was further ahead at the end of the hallway. A guild member passing told them it was the door at the end after they asked him he also told them the Don was expecting them as they thought. Since he was expecting their arrival Yuri was the one to open the door without even knocking never noticing Estelle's small frown thinking it was rude not to knock before entering. As the party entered the chamber they saw the Don seated on a small seat that's supposed to resemble a throne, he was accompanied by other guild members. They also didn't expect to see Flynn present.

"So you've come back, have ya? Not like I'm surprised."

"Yuri, Naruto?"

"What, you two know them?" asked the Don.

"Yes, Yuri and I are old friends. As for Naruto we became friends not too long ago" replied the blond knight.

"Ya don't say."

"I see you know them too."

"We crossed paths during the assault on the city. Now then, what business ya have?"

"Uh…."

"We came to ask you about a man named Barbos of the Blood Alliance. It looks like he's the one behind the recent string of stolen blastia cores" said the former knight.

"I see, so Barbos is tied up in your problems as well."

"What do you mean Flynn? Don't tell me he's up to no good" said Naruto.

The blond knight gave a nod as he turned back to the Don.

"We have come to ask that the Union relinquish all ties with the Blood Alliance. Other guilds have begun to follow Barbos' example abusing blastia in other areas and disrupting the order of society. If we can count on your assistance, I feel that together we should move to put an end to the Blood Alliance."

"Barbos. He's been testing the limits of my patience lately. Looks like it's time to remind that brute how a proper guild behaves."

"A clash between the guilds and the empire was avoided the other day, largely due to your intervention. However, if Barbos is left unattended, the relations between our two states may yet again be torn apart."

"That's not gonna be fun for anybody" said the older man.

"The time for stopping Barbos is now."

"Since we'd be cooperating with ya. I assume we'd be on equal standing with the empire on this."

"Yes, sir" replied the blond knight.

"We're going to help them right?" whispered the Uzumaki to the long haired swordsman.

"Looks like it. I want to retrieve the aque core without any more detours from our little side adventure."

"Hmph. If that's the case, a united front with the empire might not be a bad idea."

"Then…."

"Yeah, we'll deal with this together" the Don turned to a guild member.

"Hey. Send a message to Belius. Tell Belius that Nordopolica's gonna help us."

The guild member nodded as he left the chamber.

"Man, this is serious" said Karol.

"They're coming together because they have a common enemy. Together they're stronger" said the whiskered blond.

"I've brought a letter from his Highness Ioder" Flynn knelt offering the letter to the older man.

"A secret note from the imperial candidate, huh? Read it out loud" he gave it to Raven.

"If Don Whitehorse is taken out of the picture, we are willing to overlook the Unions responsibility in the Barbos affair."

"What the?!" the Uzumaki was shocked.

"What!?" followed the blond knight.

"Hah hah hah! Don't make me laugh!"

"What what is this?" he stood shock once Raven returned the letter to him.

"Looks like you and the young master see things a little differently."

"No, there's no way Ioder would write something like that. That letter has the stench of set up all over it" thought the blond shinobi.

"This must be a mistake! Master Ioder would never say such thing,"

"Show our guest to his own private suite."

"Don Whitehorse, please listen to me! This is some sort of trap!"

"Damn this is not good" Naruto growled watching two guild members apprehending the blond knight.

"Don wait!"

"Hmm…Naruto Uzumaki, what is it my boy?"

"Don't take Flynn away. I know he had no idea about the content of the letter. He was obviously set up he's not the kind of person to look for conflict with others when he wants to fight for a common goal like the one to stop Barbos."

"Naruto, don't interfere" Yuri warned.

"He has to know the truth you know he's innocent too. Flynn was unaware of this. If he knew what that letter said he would have never bother giving it to you in the first place! Also Ioder would never write that latter, this is all a trap set by someone."

"Someone eh….? And who might that be?"

"I…I don't know but you have to believe me. Flynn is innocent"

"Even if you were telling me the truth, what good would that do for me to know? It matters not to me and I have to lay the Union's law on this imperial dog. As a leader of Altosk and the Union it is my duty, take him away!"

The two guild members left the chamber taking the blond knight as their prisoner.

"Flynn!" shouted Estelle.

"Why?"

"Hang on. If we screw up it'll make things worse for Flynn. So acting reckless is out of the question. Like a certain someone's little outburst just now" the former knight turned to the whiskered blond.

"But this is not right, he's not to blame he didn't know" the blond shinobi mumble in anger.

"Just keep quiet."

"All-out war with the empire! We'll take everything we've got and march on the imperial capital!"

"What?!" shouted the jinchurikki while Yuri stopped him trying not to have another outburst.

"Try and make a fool out of me! I'll tear these little messengers limb from limb!"

The Don walked out of the chamber with Raven and the rest of his followers leaving the party alone. Naruto was still unhappy with the whole thing and just when everything was going well. The empire and the guilds were supposed to cooperate in stopping the Blood Alliance and all of the sudden everything is screw up. The Uzumaki's eyes widened in horror at the realization that has suddenly hit him, he figured out the terrible scheme behind the trap that got Flynn to be a prisoner. The others weren't taking it well at least for Karol who was feeling the same way as the blond. Everything was going right until the letter torn things up between both forces.

"Th-this is bad!"

"And it looks like he has forgotten all about talking to us" said Rita.

"That's it…." spoke softly the blond shinobi.

"Huh? What are you mumbling about?" said the mage.

"The point of the letter, a war between the empire and the guilds…."

"No but why Ioder would never write a letter like that?" said the pink haired princess.

"That's because it wasn't Ioder" said Yuri.

"Exactly! Whoever wrote that letter wanted this to happen! For both parties to kill each other" followed the jinchurikki.

"We can forget talking to the Don. I don't think he's in much of a talking mood right now" said the swordsman.

"I have to return to the empire and find out what's really going on!" said the pink haired healer.

"I said hang on. We should sit still for now and see what happens" said the former knight.

"I…I supposed you're right."

"But what about Flynn?" asked the Uzumaki.

"He can take care of himself. I don't think the Don is planning to take action on him yet he'll be mostly busy rallying his forces. Like you Naruto I know Flynn had no idea of the content of that letter, it will be suicide to come here if he knew that letter was a declaration of war in disguise."

(Skit title: The Conspiracy and Flynn's trouble)

Everyone was present.

Estelle: I cannot believe that Ioder would give a letter like that to Flynn. There must be some mistaken.

Naruto: I don't think it was him. Whoever did this has some nerve to use Flynn like that.

Rita: we've met His Highness too, and he certainly didn't seem like that kind of person.

Karol: but you heard the letter. It said to take Don Whitehorse out of the picture.

Yuri: so maybe it was sent by someone who wants to throw a wrench into what Ioder and Flynn are doing.

Naruto: that's what I think, but who will be that evil to do something like that?

Rita: but that's nothing more than a hunch now.

Yuri: yeah, you're right. The only thing we know for sure right now is that Flynn is in trouble.

Estelle: I hope he's okay.

Naruto: you think Barbos has anything to do with this? Maybe he's the one who wrote that letter.

Rita: that sounds pretty much desperate. Just how someone like him will write a letter pretending to be His Highness and gave it to Flynn in person knowing that he will be the one to be in trouble? I doubt he will be that stupid to do something like that.

Yuri: she's right we absolutely have no evidence that Ioder is innocent.

Estelle: I just know Ioder isn't like that he's always thinking for the better of the empire and everyone else. He would never want a war with the guilds.

Naruto: if we get the chance Yuri, I think we should see Flynn and let him tell us more about the letter. Ask him who gave it to him? I have a hunch it wasn't Ioder personally who handed it to him.

Yuri: you really want to help Flynn that bad? Not like I don't want to help, but right now there isn't anything we can do. We haven't forgotten we still have to know where Barbos is, looks like this whole situation with Ioder and Flynn might become another detour in our journey.

Naruto: Flynn is your best friend so you should reconsider. I'm sure he will do the same if you were the one in trouble.

Yuri: knowing him I think he will let me rot in a cell until I have learn my lesson.

Naruto: *sweat dropped* I mean if you were innocent of a crime, but that is rarely the case.

Yuri: true.

They have left the Union headquarters heading to the streets of the guild city. Still thinking everything that has happened something that was supposed to be a common goal has turned into a declaration of war, because of one letter. This really puts in jeopardy the lives of many innocent people not knowing the full scale of the damage this conflict may cause. Flynn and Ioder were probably the only players in the empire that have good intentions and the possibility of not being like the rest who only favors money and power. Since the imperial candidate delivered such letter he might as be corrupted as the rest, with the blond knight being caught in the middle. Now his life was possibly hanging in the balance because it was a straight the Don wasn't going to keep him alive for too long. As they reached the central square of the town Yuri has suddenly stopped from his train of thought noticing something.

"Huh? That's strange."

"What is?" asked Naruto.

"It looks like I dropped my wallet somewhere."

"You're kidding right?" the blond shinobi sweat dropped.

"At a time like this?!" said Karol.

"Maybe it fell out of my pocket at the Don's place? I'm going to go look. You wait here."

"O-okay. Don't take too long!" said the youth.

"I'll go with you. You have this ability of wandering off to who knows where" said the jinchurikki.

"I don't know someone to watch over me" sweat dropped the former knight.

"Yuri you "do" need someone to watch over you. I'll be back later."

"Just make sure not to run off again or I'll swear you'll be tie up for good" Rita has given her assistant a warning expression.

"I won't, I won't!"

As the group left the Uzumaki got next to the long haired swordsman. Once they were out further away he grinned a little having a clue what he was up to.

"Okay, time to see Flynn."

"What? See Flynn….?"

"Quit pretending you don't know I know you're planning to see him. Because that excuse you used was so lame, really lame. Come on" I dropped my wallet at the Don's place" nobody would buy that."

"The others sure seemed to have bought it."

"Or maybe they already know you're planning to see him. I do know Rita didn't buy it but she knows we'll be fine."

"Guess I failed in convincing you. Right then, let's go see how Flynn's holding up.

"Right!"

They have gone back to the way they came returning to Union headquarters. Luckily for them the guard seemed to be on break since he wasn't present at the moment. As they arrived at the hallway with the three doors they took the door on the left, since it had the sing that reads" prison area" it was a no brainer where to go. The former knight opened the door and closed it once they were inside. They climbed down a stairway heading deeper into the dark area of the prison it had the same feel from the prison back at Zaphias castle. Passing the cells they were empty looks like the guilds weren't holding any criminals aside from the blond knight, they reached the third cell noticing there was someone present.

"Yuri, Naruto….?"

"Though I was being quiet, but I guess you heard me."

"Hey Flynn, how you holding up….?" Naruto had to sweat dropped at the question.

"Not good if you were expecting" I'm fine". I'm sure you're here Yuri to come have a laugh at me in this sorry state?"

"Yeah, I wanted to see what kind of expression being locked up put on your face."

"He's only being sarcastic" the Uzumaki rolled his eyes.

"It doesn't hurt to be forced to view things from behind bars every now and then."

"What the hell you think we're doing, coming here with a letter like that?"

"That was the red eye's doing. They attacked after you guys left."

"I knew it, those scums are behind this. I'm beginning to wonder if they're connected to the Blood Alliance" said the blond shinobi.

"You don't screw up like that. Was it one of your people?"

"Even if it was, the responsibility is mine."

"Wait Flynn, did Ioder himself give you the letter?" asked the jinchurikki.

"Yes he did, although it was a different one."

"Different one….? What are you talking about?" asked Yuri.

"When we fought the red eyes men the letter master Ioder gave me fell off accidentally. I noticed during the battle one of them has approached it. I'm guessing he switched it with another letter. I noticed it was different when I read it. The envelope had a different color and so does the paper, as for the writing I admit it was the same as the master's. But it was slightly off a bit someone must have faked his hand writing to a point it will be very convincing to anyone who will read it."

"I knew it, so Ioder is innocent after all" replied the Uzumaki.

"Yes he is. I also know it wasn't him who wrote it because he read the letter out loud before handing it to me. And the contents of it was completely different from the one Don Whitehorse received. Once I read the fake letter I knew there was something wrong, a trap."

"To make the empire and the guilds go at each other's throat. This can't be a coincidence for those red eye freaks to be involved with Barbos. While both forces are fighting each other he's off the hook, free to continue doing his evil deeds."

"Maybe there is a connection but it may be too late to prove master Ioder's innocence as well as my own."

"It's not just him Naruto. Don't forget Ragou is the one who paid Barbos to steal all those blastia cores for him. If those Red Eyes are involved then he's got to be behind it all."

"I think there's a chance those red eyes are working for him, if that's true they're all connected with the set up to make the empire and the guilds go to war" said the whiskered blond.

"But how do you know?" asked the blond knight.

At the harbor, we saw Ragou giving orders to one of their assassins."

"I hadn't heard about that."

"That's it Zagi!" said the blond shinobi.

"That nut job is working for the Red Eyes when we saw him back at the castle. If he's working for Ragou then it all makes sense the involvement of the Red Eyes, this whole plot for war is being done by him. We also fought him when we went after Ragou chasing him to his ship."

"That's right but we still don't know what he's up to by doing all of this. Flynn do you know what they're trying to do?" asked the former knight.

"As Naruto pointed out they want to force a clash between the guilds and the Knights."

"That'd be bad. You think another one of those false letters went to the Knights?"

"Another letter….?" Naruto's eyes widened thinking the Knights is feeling as angry as the Don.

"Yes, to put them in a fighting fool."

"Damn! We have to find a way to stop them from committing pointless fighting" said the whiskered jinchurikki.

"If you know that much, then get out of there and get the real letters back" Yuri finally broke the lock of the cell.

"I was wondering how long it'd take you to get rid of that damn lock."

"Listen Yuri, you've got to stay here."

"What? Why?" said the whiskered blond.

"Someone has to stay and take place while I try to convince the Knights to hold off their attack."

"I don't want to be your scapegoat. You're just itching to get rid of me, aren't you?"

"If I don't make it back. You'll have to die in my place."

"What?" gasped the Uzumaki?

"You think I'm going to stand here and wait for that to happen? No way!"

"Naruto I need your help. I need you to convince Don Whitehorse that the letter I gave him was a fake and also of the plot to make the Knights and the guilds fight each other. Can I count on you to fulfill that task?"

"But what about Yuri? I can't go and let him stay here-"

"Naruto it's okay. I was planning to do that in order to give Flynn the chance to fix this mess you make sure you do your part."

"Fine I'll go but try not to get bore to death, okay?" he left with the blond knight.

"Heh I'll try not to. It's not the first time I'm been behind bars."

(Time skip)

Yuri has stood seated on the bed of his cell not knowing how long has it been since he locked himself. By now Flynn was probably out there with the Knights trying to stop them from making a big mistake in charging at the guilds. Then there was Naruto who left to do the opposite with the guilds trying to convince the Don that it was all a set up by possibly the Magistrate. The former knight gave a soft sigh staring at the cell the sight has brought him memories to the times he's been locked in the prison area of the castle for all his crimes he committed during his days at the capital. Only this time he was taking Flynn's place and it was quite ironic just when his friend finally tasted the same justice he has to help him escape. He was really softhearted when it came down to it he hoped the others weren't getting worried for his absence. He heard the door of the area being opened, followed by footsteps as someone was standing at the cell.

"Taking your friend's place in a jail cell? You lost your mind, son?"

"This coming from an old man who gets rid of his own guards on purpose" his eyes were on the second person next to the Don.

"Naruto, did you tell him the truth about the letter?"

"I don't have to" the Uzumaki was giving his usual grin.

"What do you mean?"

"I'll let the Don explain everything."

"Humph. I had a special favor to ask that rookie knight."

"You mean Flynn?"

"The rats that plan these sorta stunts usually like ta enjoy their handiwork from somewhere nearby."

"If you knew the letter was fake, why'd you fire everyone up like that?"

"If I didn't make a good show of things, whoever's behind all this wouldn't bother ta come watch. Besides, we've got a lot of hotheads around here who'd never let me hear the end of it if I didn't raise hell. So that's where it stands. Of course if our friend the knight doesn't show up again, your life is mine."

"I know…."

"Don I think you should tell him the rest. Get to the point already."

"I'm about ta boy you can be quite inpatient. If I weren't for the fact that you have earned my respect I will gladly thrown you in the cell with your friend."

"I wouldn't mind some company" the former knight was grinning.

"Sharing a cell with Yuri it's truly torture" the whiskered jinchurikki gave a laugh.

"Tell me one thing, though. What made you want to start a guild in the first place?"

"I realized I couldn't protect the things that were important ta me playin' by the empire's rules. There have to be some things that were easier to protect when you were on the other side, though."

"Even in the lower quarter where I'm from, we still had the barrier to protect us."

"Sure, but were ya happy with just puttin' up with all the things ya didn't like?"

"Well, I…."

"So if the rules the empire sets don't suit ya, you've got two choices. You can do like your knight friend and put everything you've got into changing the system. Or you can turn yer back on the empire, and live by the rules ya set fer yerself."

"That's pretty clear cut…."

"Yep, I think yer going to take responsibility for lettin' my prisoner go" the older man's comment has made Naruto give a small laugh.

"You want me to do something besides rotting in this cell?"

"The sap's who's been puttin' together this little show's gotta be somewhere in this city. I was originally plannin' to send Naruto to hunt 'em down for me, but..."

"So what, you changed your mind and now you want me to find them?"

"No, Naruto insisted that you should go with him in the hunt. So you have him to thank for me about to let you go. Your job is to pay this debt back ta me. How ya go about is up to you. That young woman you brought with ya is running' all over the place helpin' with the injured folks. Yer not the type to be the only one sitting around twiddlin' his thumbs, right?"

"Estelle. Huh, that sounds like her" a smiled has spread over his lips.

"Awww thinking about your crush" Naruto couldn't let this chance slip by with teasing him.

"Hey Don, how about if you let me go and you lock Naruto in my place instead?" the long haired swordsman was frowning at the blonds comment.

"Hah hah hah you two try to get alon' while yer doing this. This mission is very important the fate of the guilds and the empire hangs in the balance" the Don opened the door to the swordsman's cell.

"Right…."

"Time to go, we'll search every corner of the town. My clones will make the search easier."

"When you find that rat, give him a good beating for me."

"You have my word we'll find this guy" said the blond shinobi.

"Besides, we have a pretty good idea who is behind all of this" followed Yuri.

"Is that so….? Ya can tell me all about it when you return."

(Scene change)

As soon as they left Union headquarters Naruto summoned his shadow clones, but that wasn't all. To make sure not to get spotted or cause any kind of suspicion they used the transformation jutsu turning into regular civilians. They spread out going to different parts of the city as the real Uzumaki and Yuri went to the center square following the trail of the Don. As they walked the streets they saw many guild members with their gear and weapons checked, they were ready for the big confrontation against the empire. They knew they didn't have that much time to find the culprit behind this devilish scheme and they needed to find him before both forces collide in battle since both parties have been put in a very bad mood because of the fake letters. Reaching the center square they spotted the Don has rallied up his forces with Raven next to him. By now they got the point what the older man was willing to do for everything to go according to the master mind's plan.

"Is he really planning on going to war just to lure those rats out of hiding?"

"I guess it must be necessary to draw them out, the Don has to convince them he really wants to do this. And we have to do our part searching this town for them. The Don believes they're here and that's exactly what we need to catch them."

"We'll teach those imperial bastards to look down on us!" said the Don angry.

"Oh Yuri, Naruto!" Karol called to them with Estelle next to him.

"Have you finished healing the injured?" Yuri approached her.

"How did you know that?" asked the pink haired princess.

"The Don told me."

"Things have gotten really bad!"

"Yeah, I noticed."

"Where's Rita?" asked Naruto not seeing the mage with them.

"She's at the barrier blastia. She wants to make sure those red eyes don't come to mess with it again like last time. Repede is with her" replied the pink haired healer.

"No, that's not what I mean."

"What else?"

"I saw them!"

"Saw who?" asked the blond shinobi.

"The Blood Alliance! Barbos wasn't with them, but…." pause Estelle.

"Looks like they have taken the bait, so much for needing my clones to find them" the whiskered blond grinned before dispelling all of the clones he summoned to help with the search.

"Bait….? What bait" asked the youth.

"It's nothing does Rita and Repede know?" asked the former knight.

"They do. After they checked on the barrier they are shadowing their moves right now. They were the first who saw them" said the former guild member.

"Just what the Don wanted."

"Let's catch up with Rita."

"Yeah…."

(Skit title: Tracking down the Blood Alliance)

Everyone was present except Rita and Repede.

Naruto: I can't believe the Don's plan worked.

Yuri: the old man really knew this would happen if he played his part well.

Karol: wait, plan? What are you guys talking about?

Yuri: I guess we can tell you. The Don knew someone was behind this scheme of making the guilds and the Knights fight each other so he captured Flynn on purpose in order for his plan to work.

Naruto: I and Yuri agreed to track down the ones responsible because he knew the culprits would want to be here feeling like watching the whole thing from up close.

Estelle: so this is all part of the Don's plan.

Karol: then him getting angry at that fake letter and rallying up his forces to go to war, it's all just a hoax?

Yuri: yeah, he has no intention in fighting the Knights. He's only playing his part until we capture Barbos.

Naruto: while the Don is taking his time, Flynn is trying to stop the Knights from taking action. His doing everything he can to convince them about the letters being faked it's up to us to capture Barbos and stop this war from happening.

Estelle: we should hurry then, I don't want to see anyone injure because of this.

Karol: yeah this whole war is pointless and it can be avoided. Come on we're taking down the Blood Alliance.

Yuri: looks like Captain Karol has finally grown a backbone.

Naruto: heh heh I'll say!

Yuri: *sighs* but I'm still not happy with me doing the Don's dirty work for him. Why do I always get drag into this kind of stuff?

Naruto: *giving a creepy expression* it must be your curse.

Yuri: don't bring that up!

They continued running the streets with hopes to find the Blood Alliance and end the meaningless war that was about to take place. All they needed to do is meet up with Rita and Repede the two were the ones following the guild. They finally spotted the two members of their group ending their running because they were able to see what they were seeing. Armored, fully weapon men no doubt they were with Barbos's guild. It was impressive they've been able to locate them so quickly it showed that the Don was right after all. The Blood Alliance wants to watch the upcoming battle between both parties from a close view it reflected their leader's arrogance and stupidity too. Something that was going to cost him dearly because they knew of their plan and the Don too, it wasn't going to be long before they get exposed as the real culprits of this devilish scheme.

"Rita….!" called Karol.

"Shhh! Keep your voice down" scolded the mage.

"Huh…So it looks like we're gonna have trouble forcing our way in…." said Yuri.

"Or we can just leave it to me" Naruto grinned at the group as they turned to him.

"We have to make sure Barbos is in there right? Then I'm perfect for this."

"How are you planning to get in?" asked the Mordio.

"Watch closely" he formed a hand seal.

"Transform!"

POOF!

The party gasped spotting where the blond stood now it was a familiar older man standing in his place. Everyone recognized who the person he has transformed into.

"Naruto, why are you transforming into the Don?" said Estelle.

"We can't forget the Blood Alliance is a guild. And a guild has to listen to the leader of the Union."

"I don't think Barbos is the kind of person to take orders from the Don. He didn't even care that he was up to no good while he was upsetting the Don because of his acts" said Yuri.

"I know, but here's what we're going to do. I'm going to try and convince Barbos to help me in the war with the Knights of course he's going to disagree if he's the one behind this. I will lure him outside while talking to him giving you guys enough time to ambush him."

"That doesn't sound like a bad plan" said the former knight.

"It's a bit dangerous, won't Barbos find out that you're not the real Don?" said the pink haired princess.

"I'll play the part well. Watching the Don has given me enough time to act just like him."

"I admit it can be reckless. But if he can put up a convincing act then it will be a good plan" said Rita.

"Okay then its settle, I'm heading out. I'll leave the rest to you."

"Good luck" said the swordsman.

The transformed Uzumaki gave a nod heading towards the guild members. The others were now waiting for him to be successful on the plan while some we're a little worried for his safety. As usual it was Rita but the mage knew he can take care of himself sometimes she will worry too much for her own good. Yet it wasn't written in her face while the others looked confident he was going to pull this off. The group weren't unaware a certain shady man was next to them.

"Whaddya all looking at?"

"What are you doing here?" said the mage with a frown.

"Hey it's the Don" said one of the Blood Alliance members.

"Don White horse, what an honor to have you here" another member tried not to sound nervous.

"Open up you lazy slackers!" the Uzumaki was doing a perfect interpretation of the Don.

"Don't stall you. I know your boss is in there. I need to speak with him."

"Don we don't know what you're-"

The man was cut off as the transformed blond was grabbing him by his neck.

"If you don't let me in, I'll make myself in!"

He violently threw the man hitting another and he ended up beating up the entire guild members.

"There we go."

"Naruto!" called Rita to her assistant.

"What are you doing here? You're going to get us caught."

"Never mind your plan that jerk old man knows where we might find Barbos."

"Old man, you mean pops is here?"

"Come on, it's better that you don't run off on us" the mage dragged her whiskered assistant away.

"So much for my plan" he sweat dropped.

(Time skip)

No one from the party had a clue where Raven was taking them. The shady man only gave them a small hint having an idea where Barbos was located. He walked calmly leading the group deeper into the streets of the guild city and it wasn't good for the group. Time was running out from stopping the guilds and the Knights from an all-out war, their fate was now in Flynn's hands. They were surprised that he has brought them to a bar of all places they sweat dropped feeling like he wanted to have a drink when the situation was turning for the worst by the minute. Yet the man didn't bothered coming to where the bartender was serving drinks, he went to the right where there was a door at the end. Raven asked the guard to let them inside and he gave a nod not getting in the way of the group. They were now in a room with couches looking very elegant, it looked like a nice place to relax and enjoy a drink. But they still didn't know why he has brought them here where they still didn't know where their target was.

"So, what's this place?" asked Yuri.

"The place where the Don takes a drink with his guests while talking about top secret things" replied the shady man.

"He has some style" complimented Naruto gazing around the room.

"You took us here to take a drink?" sweat dropped the former knight.

"The" if your friend comes back with the real letter" discussion would probably take one round of drinks" he scratched his chin.

"Sorry, but Flynn's not the kind to do things just to look good."

"I just know he's going to come back with the letter and end this crazy war" said the blond shinobi.

"We have to find the person responsible for this whole incident! If it's Barbos…." said Estelle.

"Now now, rushin' in recklessly won't do ya any good" said Raven.

"Are you going to finally tell us why you brought us here?" asked the Uzumaki.

"Sure thing" the man walked to a door behind a chair.

"What's this?" the swordsman didn't noticed the door because it was odd looking.

"Under this town lies a complex underground waterway that runs throughout the city. A long time ago, when this city was still part of the Empire, the guilds used the waterway to hide their time ta strike back."

"No way…You're not saying this door leads to that underway?" Karol was shocked remembering he has heard stories of the underground waterway.

"The very same. You should be able ta sneak in where ya want ta go by goin' though here. "

"And let me guess, if we take the waterway we will reach Barbos, wherever he's hiding?" said the jinchurikki.

"That's about it. But like I said, the waterway is complex if yer not careful ya might get lost there for who knows how lon'."

"If we want to get them without them noticing us, this certainly sounds like a good detour" said the former knight.

"Yep. Aren't ya glad you trusted me?"

"I think it's a bit early to be saying that without taking a look first."

"So ya still don't trust me?"

"How about if you come with us you must know the waterway like the back of your hand. If you want everyone to trust you, guiding us through the waterway straight into Barbos will be enough to gain their trust" said the whiskered blond.

"Naruto hit the nail on the head, you're coming with us right?" said Yuri.

"Oh yeah…I'd LOVE to help, but…."

"Didn't you want a chance to prove yourself to us? Come on, let's go."

"All right and like Naruto said, I do know the way around the place. Try to stay together, because it's a little dark down there."

(Scene change)

Judith was flying high in the skies on Ba'ul she could see the city of Dahngrest in the distance. She was still focused to take out another harmful blastia, yet her thoughts have been driven back by a certain blond. She cursed mentally this wasn't the time to be thinking about her whiskered companion even if she couldn't help it. The krityan tried hard to think about her mission but it goes back to Naruto and the quick friendship she has formed with him. Being with him were the best moments of her life it brought her so much joy reminding her of her past before it was all taken away from her. Those memories have been locked in her mind and she only thought of the times she spent with the blond. She really regretted parting ways with him before heading to Heliord because she was hoping to see him again. Destroying Hermes blastia one at a time wasn't the same if her blond companion wasn't present with her.

*Judith….?"

"Hmm…What is it Ba'ul are we there?"

*The strong aer is coming from the northwest away from this city. But…I'm sensing another source of powerful aer coming from this city. No doubt it's the same human from Heliord.*

"That means, Naruto must be there too" her amethyst eyes fell on the guild city.

*Something's happening below us.*

The krityan gazed down below and her eyes widened spotting a large army of men standing outside of the town. On the far left stood another army but they were all clad in armor, she recognized the Imperial Knights but not the other army.

"What is going on down there?"

*It looks like they're about to go into battle."

"A war….? My, this city is starting to look like it could be fun."

*Should we go after the other source of aer in the northwest or the one in this city?*

"Hmm…."

(Scene change)

"A little dark, yeah right" thought Rita angry at Raven for being a big time liar.

"Whoa…it's pitch black" said Karol.

"Seems like would be a piece of cake to get yourself lost in here forever" said Yuri.

"I can't see a thing here where is everyone aahh!"

"Naruto are you okay?" said Estelle.

"Ouch I tripped this is crazy we can't travel the waterway like this!"

"Okay…I'm only saying this once. Whoever is touching my butt is going to receive a very slow and painful death" the life threat was obviously made by a very angry Rita.

"Ooops-Rita, I'm sorry I didn't mean it. I can't see a thing I didn't do it on purpose honest."

"Naruto, time to look for a new assistant because I'm going to kill you!"

"Aahhh! Somebody help me! Yuri!"

"Would you be quiet? We're all feeling a little edgy" said the former knight.

"Can ya all feel the love growin'? Isn't it great to spend time with friends?" said Raven.

"Drop the sarcasm old man or I will pummel you!" said the annoyed Mordio.

"It's so scary here" said the youth.

"Hey, genius mage. Can't you use your fire magic to get some light in here?" said the long haired swordsman.

"How about I make you a substitute for a lamp? That sounds like it'll solve your problem for sure."

"Heh heh nice one Rita" chuckled the Uzumaki.

"I'm not being funny, so shut up you pervert!"

"I didn't mean it, it was an accident. I really can't down here."

"Rita, can you do something?" asked the pink haired princess.

"No, not with my fire magic. It's only as an attack. To be able to generate light from an aer supply, we'd need something like a Rukes blastia."

"Really? That's how it is?" said the shady man.

"I don't think you get it at all, old man" said Yuri.

"Woof!"

"Oh yeah Repede is here. I kind of forgot because he's been very quiet lately" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Huh….? Is this a blastia?" the mage was touching some small which it was very compactible.

"It's considerably damaged, but maybe we can still use it."

The darkness has vanished the entire area was being lit by the source of a small sphere of light that the mage was holding. Naruto felt like hiding behind Yuri or Raven because of their height he needed to stay hidden remembering what the Mordio said because of the recent incident when he accidentally touched her bottom.

"Wait…It's not gonna explode or anything like that…right!?" said a panicked Karol.

"Of course not. Seems like it is a Rukes blastia. By using this, we replenish the aer that's needed to generate this light."

"Way to go, Rita!" said Estelle.

"She's not a genius mage for nothing" said the Uzumaki.

"Though, considering how it is, the light won't last very long."

"Well then, I guess we'd better hurry and use the light while we can" replied the former knight.

(Skit title: The Underground Waterway)

Naruto, Rita, Estelle, Raven and Repede are present.

Repede: *woof!* *woof!*

He runs off.

Raven: hey, what's up boy? Found somethin'?

He follows.

Estelle: please don't wander off so far. It'd dark, so you might get lost pretty easily.

Raven: don't worry yourself, little miss, I'm fiiiiiiine.

Naruto: they don't look like they pay attention to you. Yep, I think they're going to get lost I mean at least pops will. Repede can easily use his nose to track our scents.

Rita: ugh, it stinks…I don't want to stay here any longer than we have to.

Estelle: even though it smells awful, I think this waterway makes a nice sanctuary from the noise of everyday life.

Naruto: *sweat dropped* huh….? A sanctuary…really….?"

Rita: ah, yes…I had forgotten how unique your outlook is with things like this.

Repede arrives.

Estelle: ah…Repede, where's Raven?

Raven: hey! Where are ya boy—Gah, ouch…Waaaaaah!

Naruto: be careful with that last step pops.

Rita: and there goes what you said about a sanctuary from the noise world above….

Estelle: no, umm even this has it's…"elegance".

Naruto: *sweat dropped* sometimes Estelle can be scarier than Rita.

Raven: stop the talk about the" elegance" and help me!

Rita: Estelle I still don't understand why you can consider" this" of all places to be some sort of sanctuary.

Naruto: well yeah it's the sanctuary with the odor of everyone's business!

*SMACK!*

Naruto: ouch…

Rita: don't be so graphic!

Raven: hey! Didn't ya hear me!? I need help here I don't want fall into that dirty water!

The party walked the waterway and surprised to see nothing in the dark corridors. It was necessary they didn't waste time because what Rita said about the small light's length, it wasn't going to stay for too long. Something that really surprised some members of the group that they didn't saw any monsters in the vicinity, Yuri, Estelle and Naruto remembered the many rats they fought when they went the underground sewerage system below Zaphias castle. Maybe the waterway was monster free and there was nothing to worry about, the journey was going to be smooth sailing from here. It was a quiet walk until Karol gazed down at the railing and spotting something he didn't wanted to see. That it was too good to be true that they will be able to travel some place without worrying about encountering creatures.

"M-monsters….!"

"They're…Not coming?" said Estelle.

"You're right. It's like they can't come up here" Naruto gazed at the monsters that were still in the same spot even if they have spotted the group.

"That's something to wonder about, huh?" said Yuri.

"Ah…The light…" the pink haired healer gasped as the light in Rita's hand started vanishing.

"If we don't replenish the aer before time runs out…." The mage didn't finish as a monster jumped from below.

"Wha-!"

"Guys look out!" said the blond shinobi.

"Damn!" the former knight took his sword.

Naruto took a magic lens scanning the fish looking monsters with legs holding what it looks like a giant fish hook finding out its weak against the light element. More fish monster jumped from the railing while Yuri, Repede and the blond shinobi charged at them. The monster showed they weren't that much of a threat especially when Estelle was hitting them hard casting photon on them. Getting hit by their weakness element really did a number on the creatures. It didn't take them that long to eventually get rid of the monsters, but it wasn't over. They were still in danger as long as they didn't had the light to light their path through the waterway, more monster are bough to jump from below.

"Man, they surprised me…As soon as I let my guard down. Wham! They attack!" said Karol.

"Shouldn't you have known those monsters would do that?" Rita raised an eyebrow at the former guild member.

"Maybe because they're weak to the light" said Estelle.

"They are. I checked the magic lens on one of those monsters, light is their weakness. That's why your photon arte was very effective against them" replied the whiskered blond.

"That explains it. Never thought I would meet monsters like that" said Yuri.

"These kinds of monsters are inhabitants of dark caves and seabeds…of which the tolerance of light has diminished. The presence of light is too strong of a stimulus, and therefore causes them to avoid it" explained the pink haired princess.

"Should've known you were going to be the one to explain it" said the Uzumaki since the pink haired teen was very knowledgeable from all the books she has read.

"Oh…so that's why when it was bright, they didn't attack us" replied the youth.

"Oh, isn't that another one of thing we saw before?" asked the swordsman.

The light was back on once they found a small source of light aer from a nearby small blastia to charge it lighting the area once again, this time it was on Yuri's hand.

"So basically, we should be careful when we see that light's about to go out."

"As long as they light is on we'll be fine" followed the blond jinchurikki.

"Woof!"

(Time skip)

As they made their way through the dark passages of the underground waterway, their monster problems got complicated. It wasn't just the fish type monsters that kept ambushing them, but oversize dark bats as well. At least they knew their elemental weakness as Estelle played a vital part in eliminating the dark creatures faster than the others. The journey wasn't that hard but the encounters were very frequent compared to other places they've been. It wasn't just that but with the frequent battles the party barely got a break to catch their breath, they keep on going taking the path that they obviously haven't taken because it will be a pain if they were walking in circles. In one of the fights Naruto and Raven have proven to be quite the combo when they join forces, a good combination of short range and long range offense. Clearly the monsters were outmatched when these two combined their strength. It was another reason why the Uzumaki believed he could be trusted.

(Skit title: Combo Naruto and Raven)

Naruto: pops your aim is very good.

Raven: that my friend is the result of years of shootin' arrows in so many target marks. I had to hit over a thousand bulls eye to get this skilled, I remember it as it was yesterday.

Naruto: you're really something to be able to be good in long range combat, and also short range too. Now I feel great to have the best archer in our group.

Raven: now your flattering is a bit carried away. Don't know if I'm considered the best. I have met many archers that can top my skill level and be the right candidate for the title of best amon' the best.

Naruto: maybe you're being too modest. It's my opinion I consider you the best.

Raven: if you've seen the experts I've meet ya wouldn't be saying that. Especially when archery is my second skill.

Naruto: second….? What do you mean?

Raven: I'm originally the best in using a sword….

Naruto: a sword…Hey pops you okay? You looked like you have spaced out for a moment.

Raven: nah, come on' let's keep with the others. Not feeling like gettin' lost like that.

Naruto gave a nod: "for a moment, there was guilt and grief in his eyes.

Before reaching another corner they spotted a large wall with some writings on it. The text was a bit difficult to read because of the darkness the group got closer using the light.

"Hmm? Something's engraven on the wall…Letters. What does it say?" Yuri touched the written wall.

"Our ancestors threw away the country that forgot its duty to protect the people, in order to more freely protect those in need of it" Estelle started reading the text.

"Namely the guilds who rose up against our enemies. But once again, the iron chains of tyrants have come to bind us. We had forgotten the oath of our ancestors, and had spent all out time fighting each other, only concerned with ourselves. Therefore, we had to return again to the principles set by our ancestors, and come to possess the power which those principles is associated with. Our swords fight for freedom. Our shields protect those important to us. Our lives are for the sake of everyone. With this, we renew the promise of old."

"Hey, isn't this the" Union oath"?" said a shocked Karol.

"Union oath?" Naruto was still processing what Estelle just read.

"What's that?" asked Rita.

"When the Don formed the Union, it's the oath he made that expressed the Union's core principles."

"That is really something" the Uzumaki's eyes were shining staring at the text.

"Being able to protect ourselves without relying on the empire" said Raven.

"Our lives are for the sake of everyone" is what looks like got everyone united, huh?"

"But why is promise written in a place like this?" asked the youth.

"The Union was a source of morale and strength for the Guilds that were members of the resistance when the Empire used to occupy this city. The guilds were always spread out, only getting together a huge problem shows up…Then after all's said and done, they disperse again. And then when the empire showed up their doorstep…They finally realized their usual methods weren't going to work."

"Was the person who led the guilds in the resistance Don Whitehorse?" asked the former guild member.

"Yep. And at the time, this waterway was very useful to the guilds" said the shady man.

"So that's why they probably write it here, right?"

"Yep, that's what it looks like. I actually heard about the real thing being written somewhere but I didn't think it would be scribbles on a wall like this."

"Even if they are scribbles on a wall, there's something about it that's still pretty amazing" said Estelle.

"I'll say, just reading it. It's very inspiring" said the blond shinobi.

"Huh….? Aifread is written right here" the pink haired healer took a closer look on the wall.

"Really?" the whiskered blond followed and saw the name of the pirate who Patty is searching for his long lost treasure.

"Yeah, that famous pirate, huh?" said Yuri.

"Hmm, looks like he was once a trusted friend of the Don's…." said Raven.

"But, if I recalled correctly, even at one point they were partners, I imagine they had some fair share of troubles."

"Even then, you said" trusted friend". The Don's really something…." said the former knight.

"Aifread must've become a very good friend of the Don for him to call him" trusted"" said the jinchurikki.

"Our lives are for the sake of everyone"…huh?" said Karol with a smile.

"I really like that quote you know" the Uzumaki has also given a smile.

"That was pretty interesting…But we gotta focus on Barbos right now. Let's get going" said the long haired swordsman.

(Skit title: The Quote about Bonds)

Naruto, Yuri, Karol and Repede are present.

Yuri: "Our swords fight for freedom", huh?

Naruto: looks like I'm not the only one who got inspired by the text on that wall.

Karol: are you talking about the Union oath?

Yuri: for those people who couldn't take the Empire's laws…"Fighting for the sake of freedom" sounds nice.

Karol: if you're sympathizing with their view, it seems like you're leaning towards the guilds' ways.

Yuri: Hmm? Heh, well it isn't the way the Knights would think, that's for sure.

Repede: *woof!*

Karol: Huh? Repede, you agree too?

Repede: *woof!* *woof!*

Yuri: guilds…huh?

Naruto: *whispering* "Our lives are for the sake of everyone".

Karol: huh what is it Naruto?

Naruto: "Our lives are for the sake of everyone" I like this quote better than the rest.

Yuri: it's quite catchy isn't it?

Naruto: it's more than that I think I know what it means. Our very existence is to protect those around us, especially those that are dear to us. Friends and family are loved ones it's the strength of the bonds we have formed with all those people that give our existence a real purpose.

Yuri: that's really deep, even deeper than the text.

Repede: *woof!* *woof!*

Karol: bonds…I like that word. I'm sure the Don would like it.

Naruto: my friends are the reason why I'm strong and why I keep on fighting. Without them, I don't think I'll be able to go on. That Union oath, somehow it reminds me a little something that my teacher once said to me.

Yuri: your teacher?

Naruto: yeah, he said. "Those that break the rules are considered trash, but those that abandon their friends are lower than trash".

Karol: that's a great quote I like it!

Yuri: it sounds nice.

Naruto: well the first part of the quote definitely sounds like Yuri *grinning*.

Yuri: there you go again hmm…but then again I don't follow the rules. I'm part trash.

Naruto: the other part is true friend.

Karol: yeah!

(Time skip)

They have continued traveling through the dark waterway with more encounters of man fish monster and giant bats. It was getting tiring to get ambushed by them or getting attack by the bats when the light will fade. But they have made excellent progress getting into the deeper parts of the underground waterway the party remained fighting the monsters for a while. Once they have left the area they felt a whole lot better as they arrived at a corridor completely different from the waterway. They climbed a stairway leading up and they were hoping they have finally reached the place where Barbos was hiding. Raven opened a door leading the group outside they were surprised to have arrived at some kind of bar. There were some barrels some furniture which it was a bit crappy the person didn't have any taste at all. There was a stair case leading up they didn't know about the place, at least they knew the passage through the waterway was reliable.

"And this place is?" asked Yuri.

"To put it simply, it's the eastern tavern that Barbos uses as his base of operations. The place where they plan all their sneaky things that they do, and such" said the shady man.

"Then, where is he?"

"Probably up the stairs. Let's go and take a look."

"You sure Barbos doesn't know we're here?" asked Naruto.

"Sure I'm sure. Barbos isn't expecting anyone to take the path of the underground waterway."

(Scene change)

Barbos stood seated looking calmly, proud for his successful achievements. First he succeeded in stealing a large amount of blastia cores as he was paid a very high prize for doing so, and second his master plan of making the guilds and the Knights fight each other in a war that will leave the field bloody red. It was truly a devilish plan for coming up with a way to make them kill each other, using an anonymous person to write the fake letters for both forces. Then deliver them and make sure it reaches their leaders, and finally sit back and enjoy the show. It won't be long before the bloodshed begins with this plan he will two birds with one stone. With the guilds and the empire out of the way there won't be anyone to set order and bring the law, it will be his time to shine and take over as supreme leader. Of course he hasn't forgotten that his partner in crime the Magistrate was with him whining about something, which he wasn't paying attention for now.

"Barbos what is the meaning of this?!" said the upset Ragou.

"I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about."

"The tower and the blastia, of course! I have yet receive any reports about them!"

"Why should I have to report to you about something like that?"

"Wh-what?! Building that lousy tower fortress of yours without speaking a word to your employer. You even went so far to use Leviathan's Claw for help!"

"I'm not your lapdog, Ragou. I just gathered the cores together like you requested. It's thanks to my efforts that you were able to make that weather controlling blastia."

"And just what made you think it was okay to carry off the extra cores!?"

"Our nutual non-interference was a condition of our agreement, was it now?"

"Wh-what….?!"

"And did I interfered to what you were doing?"

"Barbos, how dare you!"

"You will leave now, Magistrate."

"Remember this Barbos! Black hearted filth like you always get what they deserve in the end!"

"You're one to talk."

"Y-you guys!" said the upset Rita spotting the two goons as the rest of the group was behind her.

"I hope we're not intruding in your little conversation" Naruto gave a smirk.

"It's the world series of villains and you had to take the best seat in the house?" said Yuri with some sarcastic humor.

"What fool would dare to heckle my exquisite performance?" asked the large one eyed man.

"Oh ho, if it isn't the little runts I met on the ship."

"You're the one who's been causing all of the recent chaos!" said Estelle.

"And what of it? You fools will never manage to capture me."

"Oh yeah? What's your seasoning there?" asked the Mordio.

"A villain is someone who never considers losing a possibility. That's why he thinks the way he does" said the former knight.

"If so, then that makes you quite a villain, Yuri" said Karol.

"He has you there partner" the Uzumaki was grinning.

"Yep, I'm nefarious."

The blond shinboi glared at Barbos remembering he was the one that stole the blastia cores, including the aque core from the lower quarter. But the one thing that really ticked him off, he was the one behind the scheme to create a war between the guilds and the Knights. He couldn't let him escape like what happened at the ship, neither him nor Ragou. They were settling this right here these two criminals will be capture and serve justice under the law.

"Yuri, we have to stop them."

"I know they're not getting away like last time."

"Geez, so it was him who started this whole thing. Could seen it comin' if we payed attention to the details" said Raven.

"You got a big mouth, brat."

Suddenly they were surrounded by members of the Blood Alliance of course they knew they were going to fight. Naruto took a kunai, with Yuri unsheathing his sword while the others took their weapons for battle. Barbos wasn't fazed by their actions he remained seated watching outside of the city.

"You would dare to oppose me? I thought I told you before that next time you wouldn't get off so easy."

"All the better for us to tear things up!" said the former knight.

"Take them down!"

Naruto quickly took down one of the goons as the others were ready to fight before they were interrupted by the large man's laugh.

"Haha, the fools have started to march! Now that fool Don and the Knights will destroy each other!"

"He did this to destroy the Union and to eliminate the Don!" said Karol.

"If the Knights are destroyed who will protect the empire?" followed Estelle.

"This was this bastard's plan all along, to get rid of them both" glared Naruto.

"Ragou why would you eh!"

"Of course he's going to weaken the Imperial Knights so the Council can step in and control the empire" said Rita.

"I knew the "fair and trusted" Magistrate would help Barbos as long as it benefits him" said the whiskered blond.

"I'm not such a bad person as you think I am. I'm doing the people a favor by taking out the guilds and the Knights. Without them around the people will be please to do whatever they want" said the large one eyed man.

"But the Knights are the enforcers of the law not just protectors of the empire!" said the jinchurikki.

"Well supposedly they are…."

"How about you quit the excuses and admit you're doing all of this because it benefits yourself? Without either of them around there'll be no one to try and stop you. But you didn't count us" said Yuri.

"And on the guild's end, the Blood Alliance would take down Altosk, and there goes the Union Control" said the youth.

"Oh my…." Estelle knew how bad this war will be if it really occurs.

"The Knights and the Union going down together, it's just as Flynn said" said the former knight.

"Hmph, so what if you know now? No matter what you do you won't be able to stop the battle!"

"Hmm, we'll see" said the swordsman.

"Flynn is our only hope to prevent this war from happening" thought the Uzumaki.

"And your existence comes to an end here!"

"…." the pink haired princess gazed at the two forces about to go to battle but so far, so sign of the blond knight.

"Heh, he's late."

"Almost cut it close there…."

(Scene change)

Flynn was galloping on the horse going as fast as he could. He was rather feeling the fatigue after all the traveling he did. After Yuri let him from prison taking his place the blond knight left Dahngrest as his life depended on it heading out back to Heliord. He was very lucky to find out Ioder was still in the city allowing the imperial candidate to write another letter for the blond knight and he was off back Dahngrest in a heartbeat. And here he was back at the guild city about the stop a war that should have never taken place. He could see the city in the distance along with both armies about to march out a smile spread over his lips there was still time to stop this war. There was no need to think about Yuri, Naruto or Estelle because he knew they were doing their part and probably by now they have taken care of Barbos and the Blood Alliance.

"Stop! All of you sheath your blades! Sheath them!" he stopped between the two forces.

"I am Flynn Scifo of the Imperial Knights. I have come bearing a letter from Master Ioder! The letter you received from the empire was false! It was the work of a rebel! Draw back your armies at once!"

"I thought you weren't coming back" the Don walked over to him.

"And leave Yuri behind to take the fall for me? I wouldn't dream of it."

(Scene change)

"Ragou, you fool. You didn't keep up your end of the bargain" said the angry Barbos after watching his plan failed.

"Don't hurt me!" trembled the cowardly Magistrate.

"Damn!"

"All right Flynn did it!" cheered Naruto.

"Thank goodness" Estelle gave a sigh of relief.

"And now that that's settled."

"The blond shinobi used spin kick on one of the Blood Alliance goons while using rasengan on another. The whiskered blond cracked his knuckles his sights were on the large one eyed man.

"We can now resume with kicking your sorry ass."

"Couldn't agree more" Yuri got next to the blond ready to do some butt kicking on Barbos.

"Yuri they're aiming at Flynn!" the pink haired princess gasped spotting a goon holding a gun like weapon.

The Uzumaki threw a kunai removing the weapon from the goon.

"There, I dislike sore losers that don't like to admit defeat."

"Nice shot Naruto."

"Who says I've been defeated?" Barbos was now holding the goon's weapon aiming it at the group.

"Get back!" shouted Yuri.

Everyone took cover as Barbos fired the weapon creating a lot of damage of the room.

"Get out of here. Head for the exit" said the former knight.

"We can take him on, you guys get to safety" followed the blond shinobi.

"Be careful" said Rita.

"Thanks."

"I was talking about Naruto not you."

"Sorry Yuri."

"I'm so loved."

"Yuri, no it's too dangerous!" said Estelle.

"It should take time for the aer to recharge. I'll try and stop him before then" said the mage.

They didn't know the weapon has already recharged with enough fire power to destroy the entire tavern.

"You're too late!"

"No way!? It charged up too quickly!" the Mordio was shocked.

The dragon rider arrived attacking Barbos destroying the weapon. Naruto smiled happily to see Judith and Ba'ul again they were enough to stop the large man. Of course some weren't too happy with the appearance of the white armor clad rider.

"Wh-what the hell?!"

"What is that!?" Raven was in awe at the sight the flying creature.

"Oh, so you're back for more, dragon freak!"

"Rita, this isn't the time for any of that" said the Uzumaki.

"Why because you're protecting him?" she turned to him with her green eyes showing hurt.

"Naruto's right. Our enemy's over there!" said Yuri.

"My enemy is this dragon freak!"

"Leave it alone for now!"

"Hmph. I'm gonna make you wish you hadn't done that!" Barbos was back and he was now pointing his arm replaced by a powerful weapon, which enable him to levitate.

"What? He can fly?!" said Karol.

"And I thought the term" when pigs fly" was fake" said the whiskered blond.

"I heard that you brat!"

"Ooh, so the boss is retreating by himself?" said Raven.

Barbos chose not to waste his time here as he flew away heading back to his tall fortress. Yuri growled not wanting the Blood Alliance leader to escape again too much was at stake here knowing he has to be taken care of now. Also he hasn't forgotten that he doesn't have aque core yet, Barbos still had it. Gazing at Naruto he knew the blond was in the same boat if they let this go who knows how long it will take them to track him down again. This was their only chance to finally put an end to the Blood Alliance for good. They only way to follow him was right before them taking a look at the dragon rider, it was their only option for transportation. The former knight turned to the blond and he gave him a nod reading his mind, they knew what to do.

"Ah! Get back you freak! Think I'm just gonna let you get away?!"

"Rita we don't have time for this!" said the Uzumaki.

"If you're going after him, let me come with you! We're a little short on wings around here."

"I'm coming too" Naruto turned to the dragon rider.

"…."

"What are you saying!? This jerk's our enemy!"

"Rita please stop this for now. You can continue hating her when we have put a stop to Barbos" said the jinchurikki.

"No matter what happens, I've got to catch that guy."

"We have to catch that guy, I want him to pay for his crimes too Yuri."

"Come on!"

Naruto has gotten aboard Ba'ul reaching out to the former knight telling him the dragon rider has accepted their offer. And also because she was" well acquainted" with the whiskered blond while Rita glared at the rider but feeling hurt her assistant was defending him or more precise, defending her.

"Wait! What about us!?" said Karol.

"This guy is overloaded as it is!"

"But, what should we….?"

"You guys hold down the fort here!"

"And also find a way to catch up to us. Try asking Flynn for help!" followed Naruto.

"Stay out of trouble!"

"Yuri you know they can take care of themselves."

"Dammit!" cursed the teen mage.

"And let Flynn know I'm stepping out for a while!" the dragon finally flew away leaving the rest of the party behind.

"Argh damn it!" growled Rita watching her whiskered assistant leave with her most hated enemy, the fact he was defending the rider angered her even more.

"Naruto you better explain to me why you're on his side or her side whatever…."

(Scene change)

After Yuri and Naruto left with the dragon rider the rest of the group encountered more of goons from the Blood Alliance, but they were easy to beat since they weren't so tough. They reached the outside of the tavern gazing into the sky searching if the dragon rider was still on sight, it was the only way to know where they went. Yuri told them to hold the front but everything was all right here now that Flynn arrived with the real letter confirming the evil scheme of both Barbos and the Magistrate. Ragou ran away after all hell broke loose with the large one eyed man. They had no idea where their friends went and they had no idea what to do.

"We lost them, didn't we?" asked Karol.

"We don't even know which direction they went" followed Estelle.

"Woof!"

"Do we have any clues where Barbos was heading?" asked Rita.

"Lady Estellise!" Flynn came running to the group.

"Flynn…."

"I'm glad to see you all right. Where are Yuri and Naruto?" the blond knight noticed those two members were missing.

"They took off going after Barbos. We don't know where they went."

"More simply we don't know where he has run off to" said Raven.

"I see…." The knight stood in deep thought.

"Flynn you know something?" asked the pink haired princess.

"I think I might know where Barbos was heading. We did some information gathering regarding him and we found out he has built a tall tower northwest of this city he's currently using it as his headquarters. Also he has equipped the tower with a powerful blastia and apparently the effect of such gives the tower a high speed cyclone that is being used to shield the place."

"A blastia!" gasped the Mordio as her eyes hardened glaring at the thought of a certain rider.

"That's it! That's the reason why that dragon freak went after Barbos! He's planning to destroy another blastia, but I won't let him!"

"And to think Naruto is defending his actions…."

"Well whaddya know" said the Altosk guild member.

"What is it Raven?" asked the pink haired healer.

"I overheard rumors from some guild members about it. That there's this powerful storm northwest of Dahngrest which is the source of this tornado, others have said that the tornado is a cover up for the Blood Alliance hideout. They called it Ghasfarost, didn't know it was true though."

"That is it. If I'm correct Barbos went back to Ghasfarost" replied Flynn.

"And Yuri and Naruto went after him" finished Karol.

"Flynn is everything okay with everyone? About the war I mean" said Estelle.

"There is nothing to worry about, everything is all right now. The Knights have withdrawn their forces and Don Whitehorse has done the same thing with the guilds. Thanks to Yuri and all of you we managed to prevent a war and any unnecessary bloodshed."

"That's one problem out of the way" said Raven.

"Come on we have to go after Yuri and Naruto" said the youth.

"And how are ya plannin' to go to Ghasfarost without been sent flying by the tornado? If the blastia is the source for it, then it should be destroy-"

"Hey! Don't you dare speak about destroying blastia in front of me old man!" said an unhappy mage.

"It's better to go there, then stay here and do nothing. Barbos has to be brought to justice for his crimes."

"Everyone let's go!" said the pink haired princess.

"Wait!"

The party turned to the blond knight who has taken his shield and sword ready to fight.

"I'm coming with you."

To be continued

That's a wrap for now and I was able to update early. Status of the story 26,651 hits, 239 reviews, 200 favorites, 155 follows and 3 C2 communities. Thanks you very much for all the reviews, favorites and follows keep them coming that will be all. I will see you next time farewell!

Next time: The Tower of Gears

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