Chapter 9
Tempest, meeting hall
Naruto gave Treyni a look of confusion, "I'm sorry, why am I supposed to beat the Orc Lord?" he asked.
"Better yet, how are we supposed to beat the Orc Lord?" Naruto's darker half asked.
Then Rigurd spoke up, "I'll do you one better, who are we supposed to beat the Orc Lord?" he asked.
"That grammar makes no sense." someone said out loud.
"I'll give you points for participating Rigurd. Anyways, could you better explain yourself Treyni?" Naruto asked.
Treyni nods as she starts grabbing potato chips, "As a guardian of the Forest of Jura. I know all the news that goes on. Even within the village of yours." She explains before taking a seat.
"Okay, but that does explain what makes me or anyone else here special?" Naruto asked.
"You are quite special indeed. From earning respect of the Storm Dragon Veldora to the recent battle with the Ogre tribe." Treyni says.
Some of the inhabitants of the village had to agree with that. Those were respectable feats, although not many were aware that Naruto and Wendy interacted with Veldora. So that was just more reason to praise the two. It did seem like everyone's morale was increasing.
"Yeah, but this is 200,000 orcs and wasn't their leader someone super strong?" Naruto asked.
"Lord Naruto is correct, an Orc Lord only appears every few centuries. They are quite strong." Rigurd said just stating the facts.
Treyni gave a light giggle, "From what I've seen, you were always the optimistic type. As well as generous and kind, I think I have every reason to see you succeed in your mission." she said sounding optimistic.
"I have my doubts." Naruto's dark half said, being a realist.
'And I agree with him.' Naruto thought.
"Well of course, I do not expect Tempest to do this alone. As there are many lives outside of the village who are at stake. Such as those like the Lizardmen tribe." Treyni said making Naruto sigh.
Naruto did not want to deal with Gabiru again, 'I should keep the village on high alert for him if he comes back.' he thought. "I see your point, maybe I'm looking at it the wrong way." he said.
"Maybe we can ask the other tribes for help." Wendy suggests.
"An alliance does seem reasonable. Hopefully they are not as idiotic as this "Gabiru" character." Carla says agreeing with Wendy.
"You should also heed caution. The Orc Lord's army is one with insatiable hunger. Stopping at nothing as they continue to devour their fill." Treyni continues to explain.
"While scary, it only adds more reason for us to fight or at least prepare." Shagotte said.
Rigurd nods, "Obtaining an alliance is only more important.
"Then it's settled, we can try to prepare for the Orc Lord's attack. That and getting an alliance with the lizard men." Naruto said as everyone agreed.
"This is good to hear. I wish you good luck Naruto, lord of monsters." Treyni said before disappearing.
Naruto's dark half sighed, "We better begin planning then." he said.
"You're still here?" Naruto asked making his dark side sigh. "What do we call you?" he asked.
"I do not care for names." he responds.
"Yami it is. To match your personality. Because it's more lacking than Ram's." Naruto said earning a glare from the pink haired oni. "Anyways, maybe we should consider speaking with the lizardmen. Hopefully while avoiding Gabiru." he said.
"If they are anything like the ones from my era. There is no doubt that they are honorable. Prideful but honorable nonetheless." Cocytus spoke up.
"I guess that makes sense. Still, trying to get an audience with them with the Orc Lord on the loose is going to be hard." Naruto said.
"I can try to reach out to them on your behalf Lord Naruto." Souei said volunteering himself.
"Do you think you can find their home Souei?" Naruto asked.
Souei nods, "I can, you can rest assure that I will not fail you." he said with loyalty in his voice.
Naruto chuckles, "With an attitude like that, who's going to turn you down?" he asked.
With permission given, Souei excused himself and left to seek out the lizard men tribe. Leaving everyone else to plan out how to deal with the incoming invasion the Orc Lord's army. 200,000 orcs is not something to sneeze at, even Naruto doubts that Konoha itself would likely survive an invasion from them. That and if individuals like Rigurd are scared, the Orc Lord is likely the strongest creature the village will face.
For now, Naruto had to deal with Yami.
Later that night
At a table, Naruto looked at his darker half in confusion, "So what? Are you like a Shadow Clone with a mind of it's own?" he asked.
"I'm the negative parts of you. I obtained sentience due to the stupidity of one your clones going through a few experiments at the lab of Demiurge." Yami answered.
"So you're just my thoughts in a body." Naruto summarized.
Yami sighed, "Yes, let's go with that." He said
"But you sound smarter so I think I'll give you the position of our science department!" Naruto said excitedly. Yami rolled his eyes at his real self's stupidity, "Anyways, can you explain how you spawned? Did you just exist or did I eat something? I mean, there has to be more to it than one of my clones being a klutz." he asked.
Before Yami answered, the two were joined by two goblins, "Who are they?" he asked.
"I guess we don't share memories. This is Gabiya and Gobayashi, we get drinks together." Naruto said. "Hey guys, meet Yami. He's from my head or something. I don't know, he hasn't explained it clearly." he said introducing Yami.
"Hey there." Gobayashi said.
"Nice to meet you." Gabiya said.
"Yes hello, anyways are you going to be staging a plan for this incoming invasion?" Yami asked.
Naruto thought it over, "I'm hoping Nazarick isn't going to get mad if I borrow all of their skeletons. Then again, I can try to make more from the bones of monsters we keep hunting." he suggests.
"That's a start." Yami said seeing some good points.
Suddenly, an exceed arrived with drinks, "Welcome gents, I bring you a unique experimental drink." he said as he puts the drinks down. "A strange tangy drink made with honey just outside of the village." he said.
"Sounds good, but I wonder what makes it tangy." Gabiya said.
"Let's find out." Gaboyashi said as she took a cup.
"Come on Yami, cheers." Naruto said as he gave Yami a cup.
"I don't want to." Yami said.
"Kill joy, it's not like we're at the elf bar. Then again, I think I have a poison resistance now." Naruto said as he started drinking.
"Warning: Toxin detected, flushing out dangerous material." Great Sage.
"Eh? There's something in this?" Naruto asked.
Gobayashi put down the cup, "Wow that's super sweet, but tangy is how I wouldn't describe it." she said.
Gabiya nods, "Something is definitely in there. Like something is buzzing inside of me." he said.
"It is honey, so its made by bees." Gobayashi points out.
"I wonder what's inside. You guys want me to scan you both?" Naruto asked.
"Sure thing, its probably nothing though." Gabiya said just as Naruto's hand touched his head.
"Notice: The Hobgoblin known as Gabiya is developing high levels of alcohol. Chances of being intoxicated are 12%." Great Sage explains.
Naruto snickers, "You guys are getting drunk." He said.
"I'm not drunk. You're drunk." Gobayashi argued as her eyes looked a bit sleepy.
Naruto put a hand on her head next, 'What are her levels Great Sage?' he mentally asked.
"The Goblina, Gobayashi, is facing a 33% chance of intoxication." Great Sage answers.
Naruto whistled, "Someone can't handle their honey." he said as Gobayashi started to laugh. Naruto then looked at the exceed who made the drinks, "Hey, is this just raw honey or did you mix something in it?" he asked.
The exceed shrugged, "It's just an experiment. We're mixing just about everything." he answered.
"Seriously?" Naruto asked. "By the way, what was your name again?" He asked, forgetting the exceed's name
"People call just call me 'Ol Moe." the exceed answered.
"That won't do, your name is now… Myo-o. Like the god of tavern keepers." Naruto said as the exceed gave him an odd look.
When he was suddenly surrounded by magical energy, "I don't know what you did kid, but I feel funny. In a good way I mean. I'll get you some more honey." he said as he left the table.
Yami raised a brow, "You renamed him and wanted to see if they had the same effect on exceeds as it did you." He said.
"How do you know?" Naruto asked.
"I know everything going on within you. I'm an extension of you, remember?" Yami asked.
"Oh yeah." Naruto said as he didn't know what to think of Yami.
Yami sighed, "You are an ignoramus and that alone makes you a danger to everyone." he said.
"Rude, hey Myo-o! How is that honey coming along?" Naruto calls out as Yami sighs again.
30 minutes later
Gabiya and Gobayashi were both passed out with flushed faces. Naruto on the other hand, just looked disoriented. It appears that Great Sage prevented him from getting drunk or feeling any form of intoxication, but at the same time. It couldn't prevent him from looking nauseous. Yami assumed that the honey in the drinks must have given his original self some sort of sickness.
'Likely the same as eating too much or something along those lines. Let's see how Great Sage and his passive skills react.' Yami thought before feeling a sharp pain around his body. 'It appears that I still need to attach myself. Very well then, I will try to get this moron up to speed tomorrow. For now, who is taking him home. At the very least, he doesn't smell like alcohol.' he thought as he attached himself.
Naruto groaned, "Okay, I feel sick." he said as he felt Yami sink into his body. "Hey get out of there! What are you doing Yami? Are you trying to party with the Kyuubi?" he asked sounding a bit tipsy.
Naruto sighed as he stood up. He waved at the unconscious goblins as he bids them farewell. Despite not being drunk or filled with a toxin, Naruto's body felt a bit strange. Naruto shook his head as he tried to shake off the weird feeling. As he decided to head home for the night before Wendy and Kanna have to go to bed. Only to accidentally stumble into a former enemy.
"Oops, sorry." Naruto said as he tried to maintain balance.
"Lord Naruto?" Albedo asked, as she revealed herself.
"Oh hey, succubus friend… I would stay and chat… but I think the honey I drank gave me a stomach ache." Naruto said as he tried to walk around her.
"Are you feeling okay Lord Naruto?" Albedo asked.
"I'm fine, just need to get home and tuck in the girls." Naruto answered while almost falling down. "I'm so telling Myo-O to take honey off the menu." he muttered.
Albedo gently lifted Naruto's arm over her shoulder, "Perhaps I should help you." she said.
"Thanks Albedo, also what's the news with the Tomb?" Naruto asked.
"Several of us are still taking the move with difficulty and hesitance. Although, your theory that you gave me may work with the conversion." Albedo said as she helped carry Naruto to the shack.
"Really? I guess my imagination does work. Well, only with great teamwork." Naruto said.
Albedo smiled, "Thank you for the compliment." she said.
At home
Albedo looked disappointed, "You live here? Here!? You are a ruler! You deserve better!" she said.
Naruto sighed, "Trust me, this place is cramped but it's better than my apartment." he said as Albedo helped him inside. "Besides, we need more resources and I can make this place look better than the meeting hall." He said with grin.
"I hope so, for your sake. A ruler's prestige matters." Albedo said.
Naruto rubbed his head as it started to ache, "Sure, so long as you are not ready to jump to kill someone." he said.
Albedo blushed, "I admit, perhaps Ainz-sama did not enjoy every particular chance one of the floor guardians or myself suggested to kill someone." She said.
Naruto yawned, "Well, I'm going to cook up dinner then tuck the girls in. Thanks for the help Albedo." he said.
"Are you sure you will be fine?" Albedo asked.
Naruto waved her off, "Yeah, Shuna taught me some cooking skills. So the girls will eat something that isn't burned." he answered.
"I was not talking about your cooking." Albedo said just as Naruto reached for the frying pan.
"Well if you were anyone else, you would say the opposite." Naruto replied as he got the ingredients ready.
Just then, the girls finally came into the kitchen. Where Wendy and Kanna greeted Naruto with a hug around his legs. The young man patted the two on the head. As they let go and Naruto continued to cook for them. The two girls looked up at Albedo with surprised looks.
"Ms. Albedo is here." Kanna said.
"Are you joining us for dinner?" Wendy asked.
"Actually I'm um…"
"Don't pester Albedo girls. She was kind enough to help me get back here after I drank some bad honey." Naruto interrupts. At the same he started thinking, 'But it was still good in some way. I can see this working as part of a trade if we make a good drink out of it.' he thought.
"Yes, don't mind me. I do not wish to intrude." Albedo said as she tried to leave only for Wendy to grab her arm.
"Please stay, you helped Ram when she was in need. Even when you didn't like us at first." Wendy said.
"Redemption!" Kanna said as she raised her hands in the air.
Naruto sighed, "There's no use arguing with these girls." He said.
"Very well, if my master wishes it. I will comply." Albedo said as she took a seat.
"Don't call me that." Naruto said.
"But it would be rude to not refer you by your status." Albedo replied.
"Just Naruto is fine." Naruto said.
"Very well young master." Albedo said earning a glare.
"Young master!" Kanna said with gusto.
"Kanna I'm older than you… I think." Naruto said making the girl sit down. "Now settle down, the last thing I need is everyone calling me names while I'm making food. Shuna's not here and I doubt Albedo wants to help me put out a fire." he said as he started cooking.
After dinner
Kanna let out a loud yawn, "So full and tired." she said.
"Me too." Wendy said as she handed over her plate.
Which Naruto accepted along with Kanna's, "Okay you two. Brush your teeth, get changed and I'll tuck you both in." he said.
"Okay big brother." both girls said.
With that, Naruto put the dishes into the sink and started cleaning. Albedo stood up and placed her own dishes inside. Then suddenly, she tied her hair back into a ponytail and took off her fine gloves. Where she then grabbed one of the extra latex gloves that Naruto keeps around.
"What are you doing?" Naruto asked.
"I thought I should help. Unlike some people, I have manners." Albedo answered.
"You don't have to help you know." Naruto said.
"But I want to." Albedo replied almost sounding stubborn.
Just as the dishes were finished up. Naruto took off the gloves and let out a yawn.
"I think I'm feeling better, but tired at the same time. I swear, Myo-o's honey beverage is too much for me." Naruto said.
"Honey beverage?" Albedo asked.
"I'll explain later." Naruto said as the succubus nods. "Anyways, how are you adjusting? With the new job?" he asked.
Albedo sighed, "It's more stressful, even with the reduced amount of staff." she said in a business like matter.
"I see, who knew it's easier to just kill your employees than lay them off." Naruto said making Albedo almost snort. Naruto let out another yawn, "Oh man, I don't want to go to work tomorrow. Ainz had it so easy being a skeleton. You don't get tired, you don't feel hungry and he probably doesn't run out of stamina." he said.
Albedo did think about it, 'I wonder what Ainz-sama does in his free time. He could hardly enjoy a bath when he was still alive… dead… alive-dead…' she thought sounding confused.
How do you describe the status of someone who is deceased but functioning as a normal person in society?
"Hey speaking of which, I still have this scroll." Naruto said pulling out a scroll. "I made it after the fight at the tomb. I realized I can bring back one of the guardians." he said surprising Albedo.
"Who do you wish to resurrect" Albedo asked.
"I don't know, I was hoping to talk to you about that since you're their defacto leader." Naruto answered.
Albedo sighed, "I can surely tell you that most of the Ainz-sama's inner circle were not very peaceful. Myself included of course." she said. "However, if you can win them over. You may have strong allies on your side." she said.
"I see, maybe we can talk about this tomorrow. I wouldn't mind extra hands and I only have a few bags of bones left." Naruto said as the girls arrived.
"Naruto, we're ready for bed." Wendy said as Kanna nods.
"Hold that thought. I'll be right back." Naruto said as he went to tuck the girls into bed.
A few minutes later
Albedo patiently waited at the kitchen table, 'With the new world changing. What does that leave us with?' she wonders.
"Sorry about that." Naruto said as he came in. "I told Wendy I would walk you home." he said.
"No, no that's fine. Are you not feeling ill?" Albedo asked.
Naruto chuckled, "I'm fine, I hate lying down anyways." he said.
"You were just speaking about how you do not wish to work tomorrow." Albedo said with a blank face.
Naruto sweat dropped, "I just like to complain. Don't worry about me." he said as he lead her out the door. "Anyways, where have we been letting you stay?" he asked.
"I think it's around here. I can just fly and…" Albedo didn't finish her sentence.
As Naruto lifted up Albedo in his arms, "Hang on tight." he said as wings materialized on his back.
"When did you gain the ability to fly?" Albedo asked with wide eyes.
Naruto snorted, "You saved me at the last minute remember? With your help, we fused and made Pandora's Actor join our side." he answered before he slowly started to hover over the ground.
"I think I remember now." Albedo said as the memories came back.
"Yeah, my mind was also feeling foggy. Maybe it's because how tough all of you guys were." Naruto said before he was finally in the sky. "Hang on tight." he said as he flew over the village.
Albedo's eyes softened as she saw the little village and it's newest looking homes along with the homemade street lamps. Only they used candles instead of lightbulbs. At first it disgusted Albedo, yet she couldn't help but find it a bit adorable. As if she were witnessing the construction of a tiny civilization. Thinking about it now, it was said that Nazarick was just a few large floors filled with vermin and dangerous animals until construction began.
"It's kind of sweet really." Albedo said confusing Naruto. "The village I mean. It's fairly interesting to see where this will go in the future." she said.
"Higher, at least that's what I want. The village is getting packed and we need supplies. Hopefully we can deal with the Orc Lord and go back to fixing all of this." Naruto replied.
Albedo smiled, "I would not mind seeing that." she said.
"I hope so, because this administration thing is super hard to understand." Naruto said earning a laugh from Albedo.
"Then you need to learn a good work ethic." Albedo said.
Naruto sweat dropped, "I'm doing my best." he whined.
"I guess, it all starts with caring for someone." Albedo said as her mind drifted away.
Flashback Tomb of Nazarick, Night of the Raid
"That hurts!" Naruto screams as he is sent crashing into the twin doors.
Despite unleashing Gamorrah to help deal with the maids and some of the golems. There was only so much Naruto could do in a confined space filled with so many enemies. Especially an angry doppelgänger that copied 80% of the true power of dangerous individuals. Including the former leader of the guild before Ainz, Touch Me.
"Seriously? What kind of name is, Touch Me?" Naruto asked before Sebas smashed his head against the wall.
"The name of an honorable and powerful man. Who's name you have also sullied by trespassing and stealing from our home." Sebas said before throwing Naruto at Pandora's Actor kicked him across the room.
"Okay… I'm glad my body changed. Because now I don't have to worry about broken bones anymore." Naruto mutters as a golem steps on him. "It doesn't help that a giant piece sentient rock is crushing me." he said as he shot a web at the golem's head.
Before the golem could rip it off. Naruto charged it up with his red electricity before slamming it into the ground. Just as Sebas and Pandora's Actor started to approach him. Naruto charged up his body with electricity again.
"Die trespasser!" Pandora's Actor screams as he is about to impale Naruto.
"Venom Blast!" Naruto yells as he sends Pandora's Actor skidding back a few feet. "Wow, that armor sure is tough. I'm not the type to cosplay, but do you copy personality or is this a fetish?" he asked as he jumped to his feet.
Pandora's Actor ignored his question as he rushed at Naruto with intense speed. Only to completely miss as the symbiote hybrid ducked under him and used the momentum against the doppelgänger. Right before avoiding several punches from Sebas and webbing up his feet to the floor to slow him down. Naruto grinned as he jumped into the air and brought down his heels. Which Sebas blocked before grabbing Naruto by the foot and slamming him against the ground.
Naruto let out a pain filled groan before rolling away as Sebas almost stomped on his head. As the head butler came closer, Naruto let Baskerville out and the demonic hound snarled as it tackles Sebas onto the floor. Baskerville would not be alone as Ranga would also jump out and help attack Sebas.
"Lord Naruto! Take what we are looking for so we can escape!" Ranga yells as he holds down Sebas.
Naruto nods, but not without avoiding Pandora's Actor who almost cleaved him in half. After avoiding many rapid slices, Naruto was slapped away by a heavy gauntlet. As Naruto slid across the floor, even farther from the treasure room. He found himself surrounded by more golems.
"Black Lightning!" Naruto shouts as he destroys one of golems at point blank range.
Right before avoiding a heavy slash from an axe wielding golem. As Naruto avoided the heavy strikes and tried using the slow movements of his foe agains them. He never noticed that one of the maids broke through Gamorrah's assault. For just as Naruto shattered the golem's head, Narberal appeared behind Naruto.
"Chain Lightning!" Narberal yells as she strikes Naruto from behind.
Naruto grits his teeth in pain but stands his ground as he turns around. While still having resistance against lightning, Naruto did not like the feeling and actually started redirecting the element. To the point he shot Narberal at point blank range.
"Ranga, I think I might need a ride!" Naruto calls out.
"Very well!" Ranga says as he leaves Baskerville's side and runs to Naruto.
Just as Naruto hopped onto Ranga's back. Naruto bonded with the Direwolf and ran directly towards the doors. Avoiding every remaining golem and Pandora's Actor as he continued to chase them. When they arrived at the door, Naruto let go of Ranga and raised his ring to open the doors. Only for Narberal to quickly return and tackle Naruto onto the ground.
"Lord Naruto!" Ranga cries out.
"Ranga, aim your magic at me like when we trained with Wendy!" Naruto commanded.
"As you command!" Ranga says as he aims his horn's magic towards Naruto as he holds down Naberal.
"Black Lightning!" Naruto shouts as Ranga's magic combines with the skill.
"Death Storm!" Ranga roars as the entire hall is filled with several pillars of lightning.
Despite being indoors with no sign of nature. The skill still generated enough power to destroy all of the golems as well as injure Nazarick's defenders. Leaving a partially fried looking Narberal under Naruto who struggled to stand and Ranga who used his body to support his friend.
"Thanks Ranga, I wasn't sure if that move would work. Only now, I think the problem was how narrow this place is." Naruto said.
"You are reckless Lord Naruto, yet you grow from your crazy mistakes." Ranga said as Baskerville appeared beside him. He then started to wag his tail as he faced the door, "Even if it is scary, I will follow you over an overly cautious coward." He said.
Naruto laughed, "I'm glad to hear it, now let's go save Ram." He said as he dragged himself towards the doors. "You coming Gamorrah?" he asked.
"RAAAGH!" Gamorrah roars as he walks towards them.
"Good dinosaur thing." Naruto said as he approached the doors. Before pulling out the ring, "Okay Ainz, hopefully something in here can help Ram with her sickness." he said only to feel a hand grab his leg.
"I… won't… let… you." Narberal said.
"Lady, I'm sorry for the mess, but you need to let go." Naruto said trying to pull away. Only to struggle, "Let go!" he demanded as he kept trying to pull away.
Only to find himself being struck by a strong force of lightning. Naruto skidded across the floor and ended up crashing into the doors leading to the treasury room. Before Naruto could try and break into the room. He suddenly felt a great pain in his chest. That's when he looked across the room and found a familiar looking skeleton holding a heart in his arm.
"Grasp Heart." the skeleton said before crushing the heart.
Naruto gasped as he clutched his chest. Where he started to cough up blood as all of the oxygen left his body. Naruto tried to stay conscious only to fall down and hit the floor with a loud thud. Just as Pandora's Actor walked over Naruto while in the form of Ainz. Naruto lost consciousness, leaving him unaware as to what was going on afterwards.
'I can't… lose… Ram… needs… my help.' were Naruto's thoughts.
Even with the loss of his heart or at least disconnection of it. Naruto's mind still had a couple of minutes left to function. Even so, that left him in weakened state where he was not completely aware of his surroundings. Sort of like a vegetable like state where the weakest thoughts can still pass by but do not good. By now, Naruto wished for yet another miracle. A message of some kind, regardless of where or who it came from. Naruto pleaded for strength with his weak thoughts.
"You weak excuse for a hero. You can never prepare yourself for the worst can you? All that bravado and here you are."
Naruto grunted as he felt a loud beating in his chest. His eyes twitched as he slowly felt life returning to his body.
"Your strength is not just from bravery or beliefs. No, you have to get stronger in any way possible. Regardless of morales. The desire is what must drive you and there you will learn."
Naruto suddenly found himself slowly gathering air. Like water in a desert, Naruto took this as a valuable resource and started inhaling air. Doing so rapidly despite the pain he felt in his lungs. Before he realized it, his vision came back and he found two people defending him. While Gomorrah was unconsciously sent back into Naruto's body.
"Albedo you treacherous fool. Why do you defend this impostor!?" Pandora's Actor asked angrily as he battled Albedo.
"I cannot explain myself Pandora's Actor. While I loathe myself for going against Ainz-sama. I can't help but believe in this boy." Albedo said as she struggled against the form of Ainz.
Unlike Shaltear who was strongest Floor Guardian capable of real thought. Albedo's skills and equipment were not enough to take on the real Ainz and win. Let alone Pandora's Actor who can use up to 80% of Ainz's true potential.
"Then consider this your execution!" Pandora's Actor said as he raised his staff.
Only for it to be blocked by a pair of swords, "I do not mean to intervene, but I cannot allow you to strike a lady." Kurt said.
'Kurt? Crap, I forgot about him. Was he somewhere in the lower levels?' Naruto wondered.
"Morals aside, I also cannot jeopardize the life of our friend. If anything, I would have preferred to keep this civil." Kurt said before jumping away.
"There will be no negotiating with lesser creatures who demand things of us. Especially our treasures." Pandora's Actor said sounding angry.
"It was worth a try." Kurt said as he stood his ground.
Pandora's Actor raised an arm, "I have wasted enough time on you already. Grasp Hea-"
*CLANG*
Pandora's Actor recoiled as his hand was struck by a random blade, "You don't interrupt while your opponent is in the middle of an attack!" he yells angrily.
Albedo and Kurt turned around to find Naruto standing in full Symbiote form again, "Naruto!" they shout.
"I'm… fine…" Naruto grunted.
"I see, you can regenerate your organs. Demiurge would find you an intriguing specimen if he were still here." Pandora's Actor said before being surrounded by a heavy amount of magic. "However, it is time I clean up the filth." He said.
Naruto started to generate his own magic in an attempt to counter the doppelganger. While Kurt and Albedo also prepared for the worst. Neither of them noticed Narberal making a quick recovery and dashing towards Kurt in an attempt to stealthily take him out. Only to be intercepted by another symbiote that ripped itself out of Naruto's back.
"What is this!?" Narberal asked as the Symbiote tackled her down.
"I'll hold her off! Kurt, go for the treasury room!" the symbiote said as he tossed a ring to Kurt.
"What about you?" Kurt asked as he caught the ring.
"My other self will deal with the doppelganger! Now go!" the symbiote ordered as Kurt teleported away.
What Kurt didn't know as that this was no ordinary symbiote. It wasn't a Shadow Clone of Naruto or even the Body Double Skill. This is the same sentient that was born from Naruto's consciousness. The very same one that Naruto would name, Yami.
"Call Greater Lightning!" Pandora's Actor shouts as he unleashes a giant rain of lightning upon Albedo.
Only to be shielded by a large barrier composed of hexagon shaped shields. The barrier then shifted it's aim towards Pandora's Actor who looked surprised for a brief moment. Albedo looked up to see that Naruto was the one who generated the barrier.
"Poison Syntheses!" he shouts as he unleashes a barrage of poisonous spheres as the doppelgänger.
"Walls of Jericho!" Pandora's Actor casts a giant barrier to block the attack.
"This won't stop him! Poison will not harm an undead!" Albedo warns as the barrier was just another precaution.
"How about a sneak attack?" Naruto asked as he scooped up Albedo by the waist. "Shadow!" he shouts as he disappears into Pandora's Actor's shadow.
Once the attack stopped and the smoke cleared up from the rapid attack. Pandora's Actor attempt to locate his enemies only to jump away at the last second. Where Albedo attempted to swing down 3F at him. While at the same time, Naruto started to slowly posses Albedo's body with his symbiote form.
"We do this together!" Naruto said as Albedo's form changed.
Making Albedo appear more monstrous as her horns became bigger and more sharp. Her halberd becoming much more demonic in presence. Her wings now moving up to her back and increasing from two to six. As well having her jaw grow as her teeth extended and became much more sharp as Naruto's more feral appearance does.
"Yes, together." Albedo said her voice fused with Naruto's.
"Intriguing, I will give you that much." Pandora's Actor said.
"This is not our intention. We wanted peace, a safe home, friends to depend on and take care of. Yet, we really are like humans." the symbiote hybrid said as the looked at their clawed hand. Only to make it into a fist, "Our actions cannot be justified completely, but we will atone. But right now, we fight." they said as Pandora's Actor accepted the challenge.
End of flashback
"Albedo? Is it around here?" Naruto asked, making the succubus snap out of her thoughts.
"Eh? Yes, right here." Albedo said pointing at one of the small houses.
Naruto gently placed his companion down in front of the door, "Well, thanks for helping me out earlier. Hopefully this makes us even." he said.
"There's still what happened in Nazarick." Albedo said.
"It doesn't count. You owed me for the attack and lead me to the treasure room. Then we had to team up on Pandora's Actor and…"
"Me helping you today and you taking me home is one for one. I paid retribution when we met and me fusing with you leaves me with one favor to ask for." Albedo interrupted.
Naruto frowned, "Fine, have a good night. I gotta go back before Wendy has nightmares or something." he said as he starts flying away.
"Okay! Be careful with the flight back!" Albedo shouts. "He was nice. Perhaps change is necessary." she said to herself before heading inside.
The next morning
Naruto woke to the sound of the door knocking. The teen groaned as he didn't want to wake up yet. Even Wendy looked bothered and she tightened her grip on Naruto's arm in hopes that the guest would leave. After a few more knocks, Naruto knew it was time to get up.
"Sorry little sister. I gotta get that." Naruto said as Wendy whimpered. "I'll be back." he said as he stroked her long hair.
Naruto stumbled towards the door and pulled it open. Where he was greeted with a friendly face that made him feel less peeved. It seemed like Shuna was getting quite fond of visiting Naruto's strange family. As she was here to greet Naruto with a bright smile and what was likely another gift for Wendy.
"Good morning Naruto!" Shuna greeted.
"Good morning Shuna, come in." Naruto said letting the Kijin walk inside. "You're here really early." he said.
"If you consider 10:30 am to be early, then you need to be disciplined." Shuna said jokingly.
Naruto groaned, "I used to wake up at 7 Shuna. Only back then I didn't need to help maintain a lot of people." he said.
"Such is the difficulty of life Naruto. Now then, would you like me to help make breakfast?" Shuna asked.
"I think I can do it on my own now. I swear, I won't set another fire." Naruto said as Shuna giggled. He then looked at the hall leading to the rooms, "Do you mind waking up Wendy and Kanna though?" he asked.
Shuna nodded, "Sure, just let me…" she stopped mid sentence to look at the kitchen counter. Where she found Albedo's pristine elbow length gloves, "Naruto, what are these?" she asked.
"Gloves I guess. I guess Albedo forgot them." Naruto said.
"The pale woman with the ample bosom?" Shuna asked as she did not look Naruto in the eye.
"I guess that's one way to describe her." Naruto said akwardly.
"I see." Shuna said as she turned around.
Naruto grabbed the pots and plates, "Since you're here, do you have any requests or should I…? Shuna why are you giving me that look?" he asked nervously.
Shuna gave Naruto a dead stare. One where her pupils were gone and the color that gave them life were gone. As he looked at the kijin for an entire minute, Naruto was sure that this is the part where Shuna murders him or does something equally scary. He was only saved thanks to Wendy.
"Morning! Is Shuna here?" Wendy asked as she heard the kijin's voice.
Shuna gave Wendy a closed eye smile, "Hello Wendy, how are you feeling? Pretty hungry right?" she asked.
"Yes ma'am." Wendy said as she sat down.
"Good, because Naruto and I are going to cook up something nice and nutritious for you and Kanna." Shuna said before giving Naruto another dead stare.
'Why is she looking at me like that!?' Naruto wondered.
With Arahnia, after breakfast
Arahnia sighed, "You screwed up again ya little knucklehead." she said.
"What do I do?" Naruto asked.
"I'll tell you what you shouldn't do! Stop inviting different girls to your home at night!" Arahnia said in a scolding manner.
"I'm not! It was the honey!" Naruto argued.
"Don't blame this issue on you being drunk. You need to clean up your act mister!" Arahnia said as she crossed her arms.
Naruto facepalmed, "I swear, everyone is against me. Maybe I should Yami for advice." he said.
"Who is Yami?" Arahnia asked with a raised brow.
Yami stuck his head out, "I am and I offer no advice." He said before sinking back inside.
"Jerk." Naruto muttered.
Before anyone else could say anything. Souei appeared and kneeled before Naruto. This made the blond symbiote hybrid feel uncomfortable with how formal the kijins had to be. Especially with Benimaru saying how this was meant to be a temporary alliance. Not that Naruto minded having friends of any kind for a while.
"So, something interesting to mention Souei?" Naruto asked.
Souei nods, "Lord Naruto, I have spoke with the Lizadmen tribe. They are willing to work with us in order to defeat the Orc Lord." he explained.
"Wow, you must be great at persuasion. Did you have any trouble?" Naruto asked.
"There were initial doubts and I did have to be more convincing." Souei answers.
"Oh, nobody's dead right?" Naruto asked. Souei shook his head, "Good! Now then, I better get a meeting together. We have allies, but we need to work out a plan to deal with a massive army." he said.
"Should I announce a meeting for tonight?" Souei asked.
"Not yet, I'll let you know Souei. You're dismissed or whatever the saying is." Naruto said as Souei disappeared.
"Well puddin' you better get your ass into high gear. You got angry ladies and a war to run." Arahnia said as she started looking through her fabrics.
Naruto sighed, "I better, maybe Cocytus or Hakurou can give me advice." he said as he walked out of Arahnia's tailor shop.
"That boy is going to be surrounded by trouble." Arahnia said to herself. "Thinking about it, I wonder what that honey beverage tastes like." she asked.
Training, a while later
Hakurou stroked his beard as he blocked Naruto's attacks, "I'm afraid my knowledge with the ladies is beyond my knowledge." he said before tripping Naruto.
"I wasn't talking about them! I was talking about the Orc Lord invasion!" Naruto exclaims.
"That I may help with. However, if you do by chance wish to ask about the female gender. I also lack the knowledge." Cocytus said as he watched from the sidelines.
Naruto groaned, "Okay, let's here it." he said.
"I have been in many battles and preferably, I wish to fight in the frontlines. However, I have faced failure in battle as well as witnessing failed attempts at invading small cities in Re-Estize." Cocytus explained.
"Okay, so what did that teach you?" Naruto asked.
"It taught me that everyone else likes to run head first into battle. Besides that, the Orc Lord's army sounds like they are uncaring and disorganized. Meaning they care very little for camaraderie." Cocytus explained.
Hakurou understood what he meant, "You are correct my friend. The Orcs are not exactly intelligent, very ferocious and powerful, but are reckless nonetheless." he said.
"So what? Maybe try to corner them or trap them maybe?" Naruto asked.
"Caging a wild animal is not always wise my lord." Cocytus said.
"Still, you may be able to distract them or disorganize them as to not overrun our forces." Hakurou adds. "At the same time, it may not be entirely wise to spread their forces." he said.
Naruto sighed, "Okay, maybe some way to take them out in a single blast? No, not a single blast. Maybe from a good vantage point… I don't know!" he said before blocking Hakurou's sword with his tendril shaped arm.
"At least you seem to maintain some focus." Hakurou said as he can see Naruto trying to keep a cool mind while under stress.
Cocytus sighed, "At least like my previous lord, you are not jumping towards just annihilating the foe. Especially with our poor resources." he said as he learned from his previous mistakes in battle.
"Yay, now which one should I resurrect? I have enough power left to restore one Floor Guardian and hopefully it's not someone insane or wanting to kill everything because it makes sense to them." Naruto asked.
Cocytus was told about this news earlier when Naruto met up with him. They both settled on talking about this later and now seemed like a good time. It also appeared that Hakurou wanted to try his hand at passing on some wisdom.
"And what are these floor guardians? What kind of people are they? Both as people and skill wise." Hakurou asked.
"In a summarized format, we have Demiurge who is a genius and conducts experiments. Then there's Mare and Aura who are tamers of monsters but are still young and lack maturity. Shaltear is our strongest Floor Guardian but a poor tactician and… has disturbing tastes" Cocytus said as Shaltear secretly disturbed him.
"And there's that giant, Gargantua too. Wasn't he the one with the best stats?" Naruto asked.
"Yes, but while he is technically stronger than Shaltear. He lacks intelligence and just wanders around unless given a command." Cocytus answers.
"As much as a giant golem meant for sieges sounds nice. I think I might want more strategy in this case." Naruto said as Hakurou nods.
"Well then, who do you see serving you with little to no hesitance and producing the resources to help the village?" Hakurou asked.
After a few minutes of deliberation, the group finally came up with a final answer. With Naruto raising the scroll over his head in a victory pose. Hakurou sighed at the childishness while Cocytus clapped for his new leader as a form of praise. Despite how rushed it felt, everyone realized how perfect it sounded. As it mostly focused on how the presence of another Floor Guardian may effect the chemistry of village's inhabitants.
"I say despite the personalities you described. This may be the best option, as ample power may not be enough in the future." Hakurou said with Cocytus nodding.
"Okay the, today we are summoning…"
"Lord Naruto!" Nichiya yells as he flies by.
"What's going on?" Naruto asked as his face turned serious.
"There's an unconscious stranger being brought to the village.." Nichiya answered while making an odd pose.
Naruto sweat dropped, "Tell me more on the way. Sorry senseis, I gotta go!" he yells as he runs into the village square.
"My lord has called me sensei! I could not feel any more honored with such a title!" Cocytus exclaims with excitement in his voice.
"You are such a brown nose." Hakurou comments.
In the village square
As soon as Naruto arrived, Yami started to exit his body and followed his counterpart. As they made it to the scene. They found an unconscious young man with the physical appearance of a child. Alongside the young man, were a few goblins that had carried him to the village.
"Ah, what's going on here?" Naruto asked as a crowd started to form up.
"This man appears to be injured and barely alive." Yami said as he bent down beside the reindeer's passenger.
Then Naruto thought of something, "Yami, if you are a part of me. Do you have any of my skills? Like Web of Intrigue?" He asked.
Yami nods, "For once, you are making a smart suggestion." He said as he placed a hand on the man's chest. Where his fingers started to surround the body, "This may take a moment." He said.
Naruto then turned towards the goblins, "Where did you find this guy?" he asked.
"He just washed up on shore. We didn't think much until we felt a lot of power coming from him. Not anywhere near the amount you and Lady Wendy have though." one goblin explained.
"Modesty is not helping here." Naruto said.
"He's right." Yami said as he finished. "This individual is holding a bijuu. I guess these things are weaker than the tsundere." he said subtly referring to Veldora.
Naruto eyes widened as he whispered into Yami's ear (even though there was no physical ear), "Like the fox?" he asked.
"It's weaker than the fox, but yet. He's also a kage of another village." Yami answered after extracting enough information.
"Why is there a kage here?" Naruto asked, trying to keep it down to a whisper.
"It's a strange story. I'll pass on the memories later." Yami answered.
"So how bad is it?" Naruto asked.
"He's taken a lot of beatings. His clothes are tattered and I think these wounds are from a battle." Yami explained as he studied the damage. "I wish that Hokage was here. I could take her knowledge and try to work this out. Though perhaps a few potions should be able to fix some of this." he continued to explain.
"And his name?" Naruto asked.
"His name is Yagura Karatachi, Yondaime Mizukage of Kirigakure." Yami answered.
Naruto raised a brow, "Zabuza's village?" he asked before Yami nodded. "Weird, maybe there's a way back to Konoha, but I'm not risking that now." he said as he raised up Yagura's unconscious body.
"Let's take him inside." Yami said.
"We'll help!" said one of the goblins as the group took Yagura from Naruto.
"Thanks guys." Naruto said as they took the Mizukage to one of the medical wards.
Elsewhere, with Wendy
While in the main hall, Wendy looked at the documents she made up with Carla. While everyone else was preparing for the war. Wendy decided to try her hand at organizing a proper government. Although she was a little girls, she knew the bare basics and received help from others such as Shagotte and the exceed elders.
"Okay, here we have it." Wendy said raising up a drawing of a government branch.
"The drawing is crude, but legible at least." Carla said as she read the drawing.
"I want a promotion." Kanna said.
"You will get one soon Kanna, just wait a little bit." Wendy replied as Kanna nodded. "Still, I need help with organizing names and titles.
Naruto & Wendy - Supreme Overlords
Secret Service - Carla, Kanna
Rigurd - Prime Minister
Shagotte - Regent
Spy Brigade - Souei
Army Generals - Cocytus, Hakurou
Army Officers - Panther Lily, Nichiya
Civilians and workers
Carla sweat dropped, "It needs some work, but at least we know who will be charge. Still, isn't "Supreme Overlords" a bit too threatening?" she asked.
Wendy looked confused, "You think? Someone suggested the title." she said.
"Who told you?" Carla asked.
"Narberal, one of the maids." Wendy answered.
That's when Yuri came in with a tray, "I've brought you tea, Lady Wendy." she said.
"Thank you Yuri, also is this a good title?" Wendy asked as she pointed at her name.
"I see nothing wrong with it." Yuri said with Carla sighing.
"It's a bit threatening, don't you think?" Carla asked, knowing Yuri is the most sensible of her sisters.
"I personally see no issue, but I suppose there are other names. Who suggested this?" Yuri asked.
"Narberal." Wendy answered again.
Yuri sighed, "I see now, at least my younger sister recognizes her loyalties." she said. "Now then, how about we start listing titles you are comfortable with?" she asked as she grabbed a pen.
"Empress Wendy." Kanna suggested.
"Good, good, what else?" Yuri asked.
"Destroyer of evil!" Kanna suggested again.
"Okay, perhaps a title to bring fear will help." Yuri said as Carla facepalmed. "What about for Lord Naruto?" she asked.
"Delinquent, that suits him best." Carla said before Yuri delivered a chop to her head.
"Be serious." Yuri said sternly.
Shion then came in with a big bowl of food, "I hope everyone is hungry." she said presenting something disgusting.
Once again, it somehow turned purple and moved on it's own. At least now Wendy was very aware that this was not a baby symbiote. Though this one was different compared to the last dish. As this food was covered in smoke for some reason.
Yuri pushed up her glasses, "I will assume that Shion will not receive title of head chef." She said.
Shion pouted, "But I worked so hard this time!" she whined.
"Have you taste tested it?" Carla asked with her arms folded.
"As I said before, I cannot eat food that is meant for Lady Wendy." Shion answered. "Also, are you still making names?" she asked.
"Yes, Supreme Overlords is not an appropriate name." Carla answered.
Shion smiled as she heard that, "Then I have some ideas." she said as Yuri got the pen ready. "Lady Wendy can be, Queen Wendy and Lord Naruto… Shuna no Otto." she said.
"Eh?" Wendy asked.
"Husband of Shuna?" Yuri asked.
Shion laughed, "Shuna clearly visits his home and I can tell it's not just to feed Lady Wendy." she said before realizing who else was in the room.
"Such accusations are not hilarious Shion." Shuna said as she came into the room.
"They are hilarious because they are true Shuna." Shion replied with a smirk.
Yuri adjusted her glasses, "While the news of my new master obtaining a bride sounds exciting. Can we move on?" she asked.
"Albedo visited our house last night and helped with dinner too." Kanna said as Shuna tried to hide her scowl.
"Oh my! Lady Albedo is just as good as a bride." Yuri said as Shuna looked more jealous by the minute. "In fact, since Lady Wendy is still a child. Lord Naruto can produce in heir within a couple of years. This is perfect for the future." she said sounding astounded.
Shuna's peaceful nature started to dissolve, "I'm going to leave now." she said.
"Where are you going?" Wendy asked.
"I'm helping Naruto make dinner plans." Shuna said as she left.
"Naruto's cooking taste like dry wood without her help." Kanna said as Shion's eyes widened.
"I see… I suppose Shuna was just keeping you all alive." Shion said before she heard screaming outside.
"Ow! Ow! Shuna, where are you dragging me!?" Naruto asked.
"I'm taking you out to get groceries." Shuna answered.
"Groceries!? We don't have a supermarket! Yami, Rem, Ram, Sans… heck I'll even take Circe! Someone help!" Naruto cries out as it sounds like he's being dragged.
Carla shrugged, "I'm sure he's fine." she said not caring much for Naruto's situation.
Unbeknownst to Naruto or anyone else that matter. Ram was actually nearby and watched the scene unfold. Surprisingly, with a smile on her face as she found the scene to quite hilarious. At the same time, the pink haired oni looked around the village for a quick moment and closed her eyes.
'It's not the home I want, but it's the home Rem and I need.' Ram thought as she started to accept Tempest as her new home.
TO BE CONTINUED…
SUPER CAFE
Superman chuckled, "Okay, I admit that was a long filler, but it gave some background." he said. "Still, the story is moving more quickly and at least it did better than your last movie Batman." he said.
"My movie, was amazing." Batman replied.
"Not really, though the actor was great. He played both the Joker and Batman." Superman said as Batman glared.
"Don't you dare." Batman said.
"What? I like how the Batman movie spent 20 minutes going through random slides. Or how about when he runs up 100 floors, gets to the roof and he's suddenly in jail?" Superman asked.
The Dark Knight was getting annoyed, "That was not my movie!" he said angrily.
"The CGI, that was the amazing part. I heard Funko cancelled their deal because they couldn't afford to make so much plastic to make their dolls for the new movie." Superman said mocking him.
"Superman, I hate you so much right now." Batman said.
"No you don't." The Man of Steel replied.
"Yes, I do." Batman replied.
"Hey did you guys see the awesome Batman movie with the vampire guy?"" Asura asked as he came by.
Batman got up and started walking, "That's it! I'm out!" he yelled.
Asura blinked in surprise, "I'm guessing he hates Robert Pattinson?" he asked.
Superman started to laugh at the top of his lungs, "He hates Jared Leto." he answered.
"Who wouldn't hate a guy who puts on tattoos and fake teeth and then pretend to be a crazy person?" Asura asked.
Superman shook his head, "No, I mean the Morbius movie. The one where Jared Leto is a vampire." he answered.
"Oh… I never saw it." Asura said.
"It's on Netflix." Superman said.
Later, at Mavis' apartment
Mavis put on the movie and left Asura alone, "Have fun." she said sarcastically.
"It can't be that bad." Asura said.
20 minutes later
"How did we get to Switzerland and now to the hospital? And are we back on the ship from that island again?" Asura asked.
Another hour later
"Why is Matt Smith dancing? Why do I need to see Doctor Who dance to a song saying, "Have Sex"?" Asura asked out loud. "Is it asking me to have sex instead of watching this movie?" he asked.
Mavis peered over his shoulder, "If you want." she whispered.
"I want to do anything, but watch this movie by this point." Asura replied.
The next day
Superman smirked at Asura, "I'm guessing Matt Smith's dancing motivated you?" he asked.
Asura laughed, "It sure did!" he said.
When all of a sudden, Doctor Who came dancing inside of the cafe, "Have sass! Have sass! Have sass!" he sang.
"Wait, that's what he was saying!?" Superman asked as Asura also looked shocked.
"I wish I could have seen this coming." Asura said.
"I saw it coming!"
"Who said that?" Asura asked.
That's when Batman bursted through the window, "Because I'M BATMAN!" he yells.
"You are paying for that window!" Asura shouts.
END OF SUPER CAFE
NOTE: I am super sorry for being so late with this! I will make more chapters faster! I try to make 5-6k chapters so I can post them bi-monthly, but I think I just need to fix this crappy schedule of mine. Anyways, that's less filler for you guys to worry about. So expect the story to move faster along with some unique moments.
Anyways, with the poll's results and I guess partially thanks to me for being slow. We have a winner! First place with 12 votes, you guessed it. Albedo wins! With Milim behind with 9 votes and Shion in third with 8 votes!
Maybe I'll just give them to Yami. Yami is basically just the embodiment of Naruto's dark half, like when he tried to gain control of Kurama's chakra. Anyways, this version of him just has his own free will and sets of skills. Maybe I'll come up with a better name for him unless you guys have suggestions. Let me know how you feel in the comments.
See you all next time!