A Sage's Mission

by EventualFallOut

The Shinobi world is finally at peace. But an attack from the unknown has put the Shinobi world on edge. Now Naruto and his friends need to get to the bottom on who these beings are, and where they came from. He's not going to let another war plague his home after finally achieving peace: Multi-Cross over. "No copyright infringement is intended."

17. Chapter 17

A Sage's Mission

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"Speaking"

"Thinking/ conversation with Tailed beast/Sacred Gear within the mind, Scape."

"Tailed Beast/Sacred gear Dragon speaking."

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Chapter 17: The First Steps.

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Euclid Lucifuge watched as the captured villages were escorted through the castle's halls, taken to their cages; to be taken for examination. Some of the villages tried to fight back, to free their families.

What a wasted effort.

The first few were beaten to near death for their attempted escape. The others...needed a new message. The next ones that tried anything, they're families were punished instead. If the father disobeys them, then his wife and child pay the price.

It's a small village, and those that live in it will be close; like one big family.

Punish others, not them. That's how you keep those that value their friends and family in line.

With the capture of these humans, the Old Satan Faction can learn what makes them different to the humans of their world. The archives also gave them a wealth of information; history, points and persons of interest.

The Devils will no longer be blind.

But it was all a ruse. Euclid Lucifuge already knew the truth.

Chakra.

Shinobi.

Senju.

Uchiha.

Bijuu.

His new master told him everything.

With these new assets, the Old Satan Faction won't question his and his former master Rizevim Lucifer's motives and actions. They'll be too busy learning about their new enemy.

Euclid Lucifuge left for his personal quarters, sealed it tight so no one could enter, or hear. The Devil kneeled down, and a vortex appeared before him. His new master stepped out, shrouded in a black cloak.

Despite his loyalty, the dominating presence of his new master struck fear into his heart. It was breath-taking, awe-inspiring for Euclid.

"The Markers have been planted across The Land of Iron. Several teams were sent out to mark locations in the nations around the Land of Iron as well."

"Have you succeeded in fooling the Old Satan Faction?"

"Yes. They believe we were there for prisoners and historical documents." That was not the purpose of their incursion. But merely to keep the Old Satan Faction and the Shinobi busy.

Good, this was good. The Devils were starting to ask questions. With new information at their finger tips, it should quell any thoughts of rebellion for a time. "Pluto was captured, correct?" The Grim Reaper offered by Hades.

"I felt his presence disappear and chose to leave." None of the Samurai he encountered could match Pluto. That could've only meant enemy reinforcements arrived.

"We know Naruto is here on this world. Sasuke Uchiha would've been left to guard the Shinobi world in his absences." That was Euclid Lucifuge's Master's theory. "Avoid any confrontation with him."

"Is he as much of a threat as Naruto Uzumaki?" The human who defeated Rizevim Lucifer.

"Naruto Uzumaki is stronger. But Sasuke Uchiha is deadlier."

Euclid Lucifuge looked up, wanting to hear more of his master's explanation.

"Sasuke does not have the same mercy Naruto is known for. If you face him, you court death."

Euclid Lucifuge made the correct decision to leave, but now he doubts those Evil Dragons amounted to anything against the last Uchiha; if he was truly there. That vampire girl's mind and soul are nearly spent, and the revived dragons are not as they should be. Unless she becomes useful, they may need another alternative.

Still, there are other issues at play. "How should I proceed going forward? With Sasuke there, Marking the rest of the Shinobi world will be difficult. Everything would've been done if Rizevim didn't attack like he did." That wasn't the plan. Euclid and the Devils will mark all the Elemental Nations. Then and only then, will they strike Konoha. The attack will fail, and the Shinobi will give chase; smashing right into the New Satan Faction in the Underworld.

But Rizevim attacked immediately, he forgot his place. Euclid was unable to complete his objective and had to save him from capture. To make things worse, he dragged a Youkai with him; who's told the Shinobi vital information.

The timing of everything was dismantled...by one Devil's ignorance.

Euclid had to ask. "Is Rizevim dead?"

"No...He has been rehabilitated. His name still has power in your world. I'll use that for as much as it's worth." Rizevim will make the perfect bait for the Shinobi and any others that want his head. "Did you retrieve the scroll?" The master held out his hand.

"I did." Euclid handed over a scroll. It was green in colour.

"I will not make the same mistake with Hades, as I did with Rizevim." He won't give Hades the same freedoms he gave that Devil. "With this scroll or my power, I'll keep him on a leash."

"And the war? The weakening of Heaven's Gates..."

"The Biblical God's death is a card we can only play once. Having it spread through rumours is not acceptable. Using it at the right moment to weaken Heaven's power; and allow me to retrieve what 'he' took." But how should they do that now without Kokabiel? "Is Ophis's little group planning to move?"

"Our spies tell us the individual groups of the Faction intend to carry out their own engenders. It will not be a united front."

This interested the one shrouded in a black cloak. "But they will sow the seeds of discontent and chaos across the world. Yes...that can work for us." Ophis is naive...but her group is a handy tool. "Continue with the new plan, and monitor the Youkai, Shinobi and Naruto Uzumaki's movements. I want to know what moves they're making."

"And the corruption?" The Marking is for that very purpose.

"The Shinobi world will give us what I need."

"Yes, my Lord." Euclid was utterly submissive to his new master.

Another vortex opened up. The one shrouded in a black cloak disappeared, no doubt moving to stop Hades from making any rash actions.

"He is correct. I felt Sasuke's presence in the Land of Iron. You do well to heed his advice."

Euclid Lucifuge could hear her voice again; in his head. "So sure Sasuke was there?"

"No other Shinobi posses both a Sharingan and a Rinnegan."

"Then, I shall continue to listen and follow his directive."

"So loyal, are we? How easy it is for a Lucifuge to turn on a Lucifer. I was under the impression your clan was a subservient one."

"That was before you showed me the truth. I joined Rizevim because I believed Devils are and must be the most evil of species." How immature and small-minded he was. "Devils...are far from what they should be." And so Euclid has joined those who are the real 'Devils'.

He must now follow his new masters. Complete his tasks, and keep tabs on the Youkai, and Naruto.

It won't just be them; many others will be on the lookout for him as well.

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Relaxing on a high-class chair, a man that looked to be around his twenties, with familiar golden bangs of hair; was enjoying a small glass of gin. He took short, gentle sips while reading what's in his hand.

"SSS Class Strength...blah blah blah. Wanted for questioning, report on sight, yarda yarda...I'm waiting for the part where you tell me what he's actually done?" He reread it several times, trying to find out what his crime really was. But nothing, Naruto had no listed crimes, yet had the maximum wanted rating. Because of this kid, he had to leave Kuoh Town before certain people noticed him, so what did this kid do, huh? He then looked over his shoulder, making eye contact with the only other occupant in the room. "This the guy you talked about?"

The other occupant was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. "Yeah, that's him. He's the one who took Kokabiel." When he spoke those words, the one in the chair laughed.

"You're losing your edge Vali. Now I'm starting to wonder if I can depend on you when more stuff comes up." He hung his hands in mid-air in a 'what can you do' pose while shaking his head. This is one of the few chances he gets to mess with Vali, and he's not missing it.

Vali wasn't at all affected by his mockery. "I would've ripped Kokabiel out of his hands if Sirzechs chose to stay put." Sirzechs is on Vali's 'want to fight list', but Vali's got to work up to that level. "And you've got no room to laugh. You're supposed to know everything and everyone in the world. Yet Sirzechs and this Naruto showing up all got past you...you're getting senile in your old age Azazel." Vali finished off by smirking at his own comeback.

"Well I was busy with my research; guess his papers missed my desk." Azazel left out the part where Naruto was a complete non-existence...as well as those other two humans. "Well...what Sacred Gear has the kid got?" That's something Azazel really wanted to know.

Vali shrugged. "Don't know. If he had one, he didn't use it when I was there." Though Vali suspects Naruto doesn't have a Sacred Gear; as does his partner. "So far, all I know about him is he can clone himself, seal things, and is competent enough to defeat someone of Kokabiel's level." Which was a real 'meh' in Vali's book...but he did escape Sirzechs so credit where it's due.

Azazel abruptly held up his finger to catch Vali's attention; an idea came to his mind. "But we do know he's hanging out with the Stray Devil Kuroka, who's taken up shop in Urakyoto."

"She's a Stray. Who's to say the Neko didn't bail on them."

Azazel took one more sip from his gin before spelling it out for Vali. "And yet Yasaka's been trying to get in contact with me, right after this happened. Now any smart person would publicly announce cutting ties with Kuroka if she truly ran away." For when said Stray, goes insane and starts killing folks. "Yet not a peep on that front and just private calls from the Lady Kyubi...which means..."

Vali waited patiently for the answer. But Azazel kept up his smile and stayed silent, prompting Vali to ask. "Which means what?"

"Exactly." That's the real question.

"I've got two theories on this. One, she has Kokabiel and intends to strike a deal. Two...she's stumbled on to something." Both are exciting developments...but the latter was also worrying. She may have learned about 'his' death.

"Then answer her calls already?" Azazel's waited long enough.

Azazel let out a depressing sigh and sunk further back in his chair. "Right I forgot I'm talking to the guy that would rather fight God than enjoy the company of a beautiful lady." Azazel stared at Vali with half-opened eyes, only to huff when Vali didn't get it. "She's up there at the top, along the likes of Gabriel in looks. And instead of being an airhead...she's more of the commanding, perceptive type. Who can see through people at a glance; like she's reading an open book." Yasaka's demeanor intrigue and attracted Azazel to no end.

"Explains why she avoids you," Vali whispered to himself.

Azazel didn't catch it and continued. "Yet every time I try to call her, she hangs up. That time at the palace, I asked her out; she threw me out." Yasaka turned down each and every one of his advances...hard. "And now she's trying to get in contact with me...my mind knows, but my heart hopes...for it to be both business and pleasure." This is why he's hesitant to answer her.

Vali did not care for this. "Other than the many reasons she's not interested, the big one would be her daughter; who hates you."

"Okay, I stepped on her tail. I said I was sorry."

"By saying 'You've got eight others so no big deal.'" Smooth Azazel, real smooth.

Azazel tuned out Vali; he didn't want to remember how he screwed up introductions. He'll get his mind on other things instead.

What happened in Kuoh Town was a real mess. But it has lead to something interesting. Azazel should probably answer Yasaka's calls if he doesn't want to be kept in the dark.

And to find out if she knows about 'his' passing.

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Sitting in fields of purple flowers; as far as the eye could see, a young man was reading the wanted poster of someone by the name of Naruto Uzumaki.

Promising...auspicious...are the words he'd use to describe him. Shame he's with the Youkai, or he would've ordered his people to find him and invite him to their little group; those two other humans as well. It was fascinating that these humans have completely avoided detection by the supernatural, to have no information available to exploit.

But Naruto's...as one would say, too hot to move. So many others would be looking into him that it would be detrimental to bring him into the fold...for now.

There are other humans they can seek out for the time being. He'll get to Naruto soon enough. He sat up from the field and picked up his weapon.

A spear that's dark blue in colour and has golden decorations.

"We found the Incursio wilder. We'll seek him next."

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"Lord, you need to sign here, here, and here." A young lady spoke.

"I was enjoying my free time. What's with you pestering me and dragging me back here?" He complained, with the sight of mountains of paperwork on his desk.

"You still have your duties, and I should have known I'd find you at a strip club." She continued to chastise him. It's like this all the time for her. Being his bodyguard may be a 'High Position', but it's nothing but a hassle.

"I was merely enjoying and complimenting those ladies and their work."

"It's still improper behaviour Lord Odin."

Lord Odin, a Norse God and ruler of Asgard; at times can be a wise man through his years, or a massive pervert; which has had plenty of time to fester. But what he always is, is a nuisance to his bodyguard; and her him.

And Odin has the perfect way to get her to stop.

"You do realise it's because of that high strung, pushy attitude of yours that drives the men away. No one wants a girlfriend that treats them like a job position."

The young lady felt that...an emotional crit struck her heart. Her eyes started to water, and the flood gates opened. "It's not my fault! I focused on my studies and future; and now no one wants to approach me! Everyone treats me like I'm old..." She continued to weep. Wanted nothing more than to sit in a corner after what Odin said.

"Physically you're nineteen...mentally...I'm not so sure." She's going to be like this all day now.

Whatever Odin thought; he'll just get through the rest of this work and get back to his free time. He picked up the pace on his work, at least to get away from the crying Valkyrie...until he came across a document that needed a second look.

"What's this one about?" It looked like a report on the Three Factions.

Despite the waterworks, the Valkyrie's...professionalism kept her working. "There's growing tension between the Biblical Factions. It seems Kokabiel made an incursion into the Kuoh Town of Japan." The New Satan Faction tried to keep that part under wraps, but their contacts have been learning the details of that night, little by little.

Taking an interest in this matter, Odin read the report with careful focus. The report detailed Kokabiel entering Devil territory...with the stolen Excalibur Fragments of the church? But what it didn't tell him is how it ended and what happened to the crow.

Odin looked to the Valkyrie for an explanation; who got the message. "As far as we know, he wasn't killed. But Kokabiel has disappeared...there are still a lot of details we're trying to find out." But they did have one thing to add. "However, our contacts believe this young man is somehow linked to that night." The Valkyrie pulled out another document from the pile and gave it to Odin.

"Naruto Uzumaki, human...SSS Class?" But no information about his actual crimes or much of his abilities; possible Sacred Gear is the best it says. "So who is this kid and how is he connected?" Seems a bit of a stretch to Odin.

"Within twenty-four hours of that night, he was added to the New Satan Faction's wanted lists, and it's believed the Maous added him themselves." This is rare for them to do by any stretch. "As for whom Naruto is...that's taking some time. There just isn't any information to be found on him." This Naruto must be a master of stealth and subtlety to have stayed hidden for so long...right?

Finally, something on his desk that wasn't boring. "Keep monitoring the Three Factions. Hopefully, the tension dies down. If not...well, we might be heading towards a great change." Which can be good or bad. "Oh and keep an ear out for this kid, I doubt we're the only ones trying to dig up stuff on him."

Odin felt it in his bones...things are brewing in the supernatural world.

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Intent of the New Satan Faction or not, the information was being found out by the rest of the world, posters exchanging hands, people speaking the names and their theories.

Slowly, the Factions learned about these newcomers existence, ones who lack any kind of history to speak of. They all caught their eyes, but the whiskered blond stood out among them.

They all began asking and looking into him, all trying to answer the question.

Who is this Naruto Uzumaki?

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"WHOOOOOOA!"

Crash!

Naruto was sent flying across the courtyard, crashing into the walls of the training area. A portion of the wall caved him and buried Naruto under rock and stone.

After several seconds Naruto's bandaged arm burst out of the pile. His other arm soon followed, and he quickly dug himself out. Now able to see sunlight once again, Naruto brushed the side of his cheek with a closed fist.

"Lucky punch." A vexing Naruto said.

Sun Wukong had a couple of laughs. "Wants the matter short stuff, that the best you got?"

"SHORT?!" Look who's talking. "You're barely above my waist ya chimp!"

"Well, this short chimp is kicking your ass!"

Naruto gritted his teeth, stood up, and threw himself at Sun Wukong. Sun Wukong smirked and moved to meet his charge. Both threw their respective right hooks. Just as their fists collide, their Touki activates.

Both Naruto and Sun Wukong were enveloped in a powerful white aura. Naruto's no longer limited to just his fists, his entire body can now use Touki.

But Naruto had a ways to go.

"Sun's Touki is still better than mine." Sun's training has enabled Naruto to jump leaps and bounds in developing his Touki. With the connecting to his base of life fully formed, Naruto just needed to know how to properly channel and use it. Since he's an Uzumaki, Naruto's life force was powerful and immense. Once he knows how to use it, he's got plenty to work with.

But it's getting to that level, that's the trick.

Naruto was slowly being pushed back by Sun Wukong. "Ya'know if I was using Sage Mode, you'd be the one getting rag-dolled," Naruto asked for this training, but he'll still run his mouth.

"Only being able to use Touki effectively with Senjutsu? That's a crutch if ever I heard one."

Naruto had no come back; he agreed with Sun Wukong. If Naruto learns to fully use Touki without Senjutsu, then his natural ability to control it is absolute.

That's the thing about Sun's training; Naruto was barred from using anything but Touki. No Ninjutsu, Senjutsu, ninja tools or Kurama's Chakra. He's only allowed Touki and Taijutsu. But when you're exchanging fists with a guy who is also a pro in hand to hand combat. Who has the better Touki...you're coming out of it with some lumps.

But Naruto was nothing if not adaptable. Naruto ducked under Sun's fist and skidded around Sun's back. Sun spun around to deliver a high kick, but Naruto dropped to the ground, dodging the attack, and swiped the chimp by the end of his heel.

Sun began to fall on his back, but Naruto grabbed his tail before he could hit the ground.

Payback time.

Naruto spun around, and around, and around. To an audience, Naruto and Sun looked nothing more than white streaks of light.

Naruto let go, and physics did the rest. This time Sun was the one who's sent flying into a stone wall; getting buried as well.

"Well, chimp...do I pass yet?"

Sun jumped out of the pile, his Touki protected him from the impact. He landed with a loud sounding thump right beside Naruto. "Hmmm...B-...you're still not as shinny as me. But I'll give you a passing grade for coming so far, so quickly." Guess it's true about the Uzumaki clan; they've got life force for days.

Naruto took a deep breath and deactivated his Touki. His shoulder felt a bit off and he tried sorting it out, by rubbing his shoulder and moving his arm. "Man, my muscles feel stiff. We were really going at it but still..." Naruto should already be recovering from it, both in and after the fight.

"That's to be expected, sunny boy. You're body's adjusting to your Touki. So don't be surprised when you start noticing changes."

"What kinds of changes?" Is this like a Sage Mode thing? When Naruto's body could naturally draw in Nature energy...and start liking the taste of bugs?

"You might start getting a bit more compacted." Sun stroked his long beard as he answered.

Now that Sun mentions it, Naruto did feel a bit heavier than before. Naruto then started poking his chest to check. "Were they always that hard?" Naruto's worked up a great physique, but he's no bodybuilder. He's clothes still fit him fine, so he's not getting bigger. "Compacted huh." Well if this means Naruto's base will also get stronger then wants not to like.

"I'd say you've gotten the gist of it Naruto, just keep on top of it and you'll master your Touki. But before we call it quits, let me show you something cool."

"Cool...okay I'm listing, whatcha got?"

Sun took a few steps back and activated his Touki. He took a narrow stance. "Hit me."

"Hit you?"

"Yep."

"And how's that cool?"

"Hit me and find out." Sun remained still and goaded Naruto into attacking.

Naruto shrugged his shoulders...guess Sun's serious. Naruto activated his Touki, moved close to Sun and threw a powerful punch.

The moment his fists connected, Naruto saw Sun's Touki...move? It swung around the chimp's body, like water suspended in mid-air...and came right back at Naruto!

The force hit Naruto like a train and threw him back. The Shinobi skidded across the ground before flipping himself up; he caught his bearings.

"What the hell was that?!" Without moving his body, Sun hit Naruto using his own Touki?

"I just bent the flow of power." Sun approached Naruto to explain his technique. "Mastering your Touki allows you to regulate it. You can spread it around your body evenly for both offence and defence. Or constraint it on parts of your body to block a more powerful hit, or land a more powerful punch."

"Okay, but how did you send my attack right back at me...at least I think that's what you did?" It looked like that to Naruto.

"Your Touki is a powerful shield, but it can flow like water." As long as the Touki is up, an enemy's attacks can't touch Naruto unless they're powerful enough to break through. "Suppose you regulate the amount of Touki at certain parts of your body. In that case, you can actually catch the power of your enemies attack. Let it flow around you, and send it right back." Not an easy thing to do.

"Weaken your outer layer of Touki, while strengthening your inner layer. The force won't be able to hit you, but it won't bounce off of you either. It will travel across your Touki like a leaf on a river stream." Kurama was able to piece it that point, all Naruto needs to do is aim well.

Okay, Naruto will admit that's pretty cool and useful. But it's not something Naruto can do until he's mastered Touki. "Alright Sun...What's the catch?" There's always a catch.

Sun smirked and answered. "It only works on the force; the power of the attack. If the attack is stronger than your Touki, it will be difficult or even impossible to control its flow. And if you catch an attack but fail to regulate, or screw up the timing; then the force will blow up in your face." So you can't bend a physical thing like a sword; and Sun controlled the force behind Naruto's punch, not the fist itself.

Now Naruto understood. "So that's why you never used it on me when we first met. My Sage Mode's stronger, and I had techniques you've never seen before." Like Naruto's Rasengan; Sun's not going to risk flow control until he understands what he's dealing with.

"I think I'll bump your grade up to a B. Well, good luck with that technique cus I'm not teaching you how to do it?"

"Because?" Naruto's got stuff to do today anyway. But he would like to know what's up.

"Because she's reserved the rest of my time." Sun pointed to someone behind Naruto.

The Shinobi turned around to see who it is. When he saw her, he waved to the young Youkai. "Hey Raphtalia, how long have you even been there?" Naruto was so caught up in the training, he didn't notice her.

The young Youkai approached the two Sage Mode users. "Just now, I only caught the end of your training. But everyone could hear it from inside the palace." Feel it too, Raphtalia's drink shook every so often.

Naruto rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Sorry about that. Anyway, you're getting Sun to improve your Youjutsu or something?"

"Yes, but also my swordsmanship." Raphtalia then directed her attention at Sun. "You can use all kinds of weapons right, Lord Sun Wukong? I'm hoping you can improve my ability with the sword."

Naruto nodded with approval. He remembers Sun using all kinds of weapons when they spared back then. Sun could show her some stuff. But Naruto knew someone else who can also help her improve. "Well, after he shows you what he knows. Maybe I can help you. I can introduce you to someone who's got mad skills with blades sometime." You might say he's a real 'Killer'.

"If you recommend him then I'm sure he'll be a great help Naruto-Sama."

"Yeah...he does have a funny way of talking. But you'll get used to it." Naruto did. "Guess I'll get out of your hair and leave you to it. Can't wait to see what you can do Raphtalia." Naruto turned to leave the two Youkais to their training.

Raphtalia's entire body suddenly became stiff...she felt nervous. There's something she wanted to ask Naruto, but now with the chance...all she could do was twiddle her fingers and wag her tail.

"Umm...N-Naruto-Sama?" Before Naruto could leave, Raphtalia finally built up the courage to speak. "Can I ask you something?"

"Yeah sure, is there something you need?" Raphtalia sounded nervous. Well, she is about to train with Sun Wukong, and to her, he's a God.

"Do you...like strong girls?" Raphtalia face became flushed the moment she asked.

Naruto didn't have an immediate response, and Sun took a few steps away from the two. Seems only one understood the question.

"A lot of my friends who are girls are pretty strong so I guess I do. And I'll be happy if you, Hinata, Yasaka and any other girl I know got stronger."

Not the answer she was looking for, but Raphtalia rolled with it. "But just to be clear. If I was stronger, would that make you happy? Would you want me around more?"

"Considering the guys, we're up against and who knows what else. It's best if you got as strong as you could." Naruto rubbed the back of his head as he answered. This was weird; he didn't feel like he's answering her questions right. Kurama's staying silent, Naruto can't feel out her emotions right now.

"Raphtalia...what's the real question you want to ask me?"

Raphtalia didn't expect Naruto to ask her directly like that. She answered the best she could; she didn't want to be unfair to Hinata. "I'm supposed to be your sword. But the gap between us is...I'm so far inferior to you that I'll never be able to live up to that pledge as I am now. You can protect me, but I can't fight by your side like I want to." Raphtalia knows many powerful individuals in this world. People that Naruto can fight...but her...she'd just get in the way.

"Hinata is continuing her secret training. Konohamaru has gone back to Mount Myoboku to continue his Sage Mode Training. I have no intention of being left behind." With the Fused Excalibur at her side, Raphtalia has the means to stand with her friends...to stand with Naruto.

"Naruto...If I became stronger, would that make you happy?" Raphtalia was still a little flushed, but she summoned the strength to directly look at Naruto; she won't look away this time.

The way Raphtalia asked and looked at Naruto brought him pause. Naruto suspected before, but now he knew there's some deeper meaning behind her question; one he can't understand yet.

But Naruto would admit, she was reminding him of Hinata in a way.

"Yeah...I would be happy if you became stronger. And I'd be ecstatic if you mastered your abilities and reached your full potential." Naruto felt that way with all his friends. But he'll single out Raphtalia this time.

Raphtalia's tail moved with a new feeling, and her smile was something that even made Naruto blush a bit. "Guess that was the answer she wanted to hear." It definitely resonated with her.

Naruto will secretly admit Raphtalia has a beautiful smile when she's truly happy. Something he hasn't really seen before. Now that he thinks about it, a lot of times when he looked at her, she turned her head away for some reason?

"Thank you, Naruto-Sama." Raphtalia bowed and walked away to train with Sun Wukong, who just looked and snickered at Naruto before joining her.

As Naruto walked away, his mind pondered on Raphtalia. She had been acting differently around him; that much he can tell.

But he can't put his finger on it...

"What else is new."

"...Kurama...hey Kurama do you understand what that was about? I still feel like I'm still missing something."

This wasn't something Kurama had any interest in, or get to involved in. But he'll throw Naruto a bone here. "To you, she's a teammate, comrade and a close friend. To her, you're all of those things. But have you ever considered you might mean more to her than that?"

"More...like what, family?"

"That's not a half-bad interpretation; you're not as dense as a thought." He's not far off the mark. "Brat after everything you two have been through, and all those times you've spoken, surely you should understand what you will become to her. It's not like you haven't experienced something like this in the past. And you're not that pint sized kid anymore." Kurama ended the conversation there; he's said his piece.

Kurama's word really made Naruto think back on Raphtalia's development. How she used to act around him, to how she acts now.

She was starting to remind him of Hinata and how she acted before sometimes.

It almost seemed like Raphtalia's...

"Hey, Boss!" One of Naruto's clones appeared right next to the original, shocking him out of his train of thought.

"Don't shout in my ear, damn it!" What was the conclusion Naruto was about to reach? "Never mind...what are you doing?"

The clone got annoyed with his original. "What you forget, I got a copy just like you asked." The clone handed him a camera.

That got Naruto to focus, and he snatched the camera right out of the clone's hand. "The recording is on here, right?"

"Doubled checked."

"And you covered your tracks well?" Naruto will get into serious trouble if he's found out.

"Got it, got out, and made sure no one will know the video got copied." Hey, Naruto's gotten better at stealing things. This won't be a repeat of the Forbidden Scroll.

The clone still had something to say "I get why you're doing this but..."

Naruto pocketed the camera. "We've left her alone long enough." Now some of her thoughts should've been collected, and she'll be a bit calmer now. "After what happened in the Land of Iron the Hokage are going to get the ball rolling, and I can tell Gaara is going to tell Yasaka about it." About what the Shinobi have developed.

It can change so much and serve as protection from the Peerage System.

But to her, it means something else.

To Kuroka, it could mean freedom.

.

---

Naruto tapped his ninja pouch over and over. He constantly made sure the camera was there. It's the key to this. Naruto felt some apprehensions with talking to Kuroka. What is said and done here will make or break Kuroka's future. Naruto's used to having the cards stacked against him, but it's never easy.

He stopped in front of Kuroka's room. He looked left, he looked right. Naruto made sure no one else was around.

"Alright...time to go to work." Naruto knocked on Kuroka's door and waited for an answer.

"..."

Nothing.

Naruto knocked again.

"..."

"Who's there, nya?" Kuroka answered, she sounded miserable.

"It's ah...Naruto. Can I come in?"

"..."

Kuroka did not answer, but Naruto was patient. He'll give her time.

"...Fine..."

Once he heard her answer, Naruto opened the sliding door and entered Kuroka's room for the first time. It was comparable to all the other rooms in the palace; Kuroka doesn't have much stuff. But it was a real mess. Clothes scattered all over the place, stacks of plates and other rubbish.

It was like Naruto's old room...before Hinata got him to clean up his act.

Naruto approached Kuroka slowly; he was gentle in his step. Kuroka was lying on the bed, face down on a pillow with her arms crossed under her forehead.

Kuroka tilted her head ever so slightly and could see Naruto from the corner of her eye. Gloomy, depressed...all of the above, Kuroka was not in a good place.

"Your turn to finally show up huh...thought you'd forgotten about me nya."

"I didn't want to get in between you and Yasaka. Plus I didn't think you'd want me hounding you straight away. I mean...I am the one who stopped you from taking Shirone." He blocked her in the forest.

Kuroka looked away and buried her head on her pillow. Her voice was muffled but could still be heard. "No...No you didn't stop me. It was a goal that was unreachable."

Naruto agreed, but he kept his mouth shut. Kuroka can't take Shirone and hope for a happy ending. Not with their...strained relationship.

Naruto pulled up a chair and sat in front of Kuroka. There was a bit of space between them. Naruto said nothing and just sat there. He waited for Kuroka to continue.

Which she eventually did, she could tell Naruto had no intention of leaving; he's a stubborn bastard. "When I think back on it...what I did was really stupid nya. It was moronic and just plain dumb. I didn't understand Shirone...or what she went through after what happened."

"You can't..."

"And what was my plan again? Get her back and then what?" Kuroka was so focused on getting Shirone back that she didn't think about what comes next. "I couldn't come back here with a 'Stolen member of the Gremory Clan' nya. And anywhere else, I'd get attacked on sight. Me and Shirone would be hunted down, and that's no life for her."

Naruto wanted Kuroka to see the implications of her actions. To know it will only cause more harm than good if she went after her sister as things are now. But not at the expense of her sanity.

"Do you blame yourself for everything that happened?" It really did seem like that.

Kuroka giggled a little...but it sounded so despairing. "Who else can be blamed nya? Each and every time I made a decision, a choice...I always made things worse. I've never been able to do anything for myself or Shirone." Kuroka was a failure...nothing more.

"You didn't ask to be in this situation."

"And...It doesn't change anything nya. I still failed at everything I've ever attempted. And I've never been able to do anything for my sister."

Now Naruto understands why Yasaka can't get through to her. Sympathy alone won't matter when Kuroka has none for herself. Simple compassion from another won't reach her. Kuroka's put up walls.

Then Naruto needs to shatter those walls.

"So everything's gone wrong because of you?"

Kuroka smirked and snorted a little; that was her answer.

Kuroka knows how this is going to go. Naruto's just like Yasaka...he'll say all these nice things to lift her spirit. But in reality, none of them understand her...or understand how she feels.

"So what are you going to say next Naruto?" What more drivel will come out of his mouth?

Naruto leaned forward ever so slowly, a creaking sound came from his chair; and then he spoke.

"You abandoned her when she needed you most."

"!?" What did he just say?

Kuroka tilted her head to look at Naruto, who was looking at her with narrowed eyes. They radiated pure disdain.

Kuroka was caught entirely off guard by Naruto's words. They contradicted everything he's ever said to her.

Perhaps this is the answer he's come to after hearing and learning everything.

"He...he's right...I left her behind and..." Kuroka agreed with Naruto...maybe he's right... perhaps this is who she is...

"You never cared about her did ya. You left her behind because she was dead weight."

Kuroka snapped back at Naruto in pure shock. Maybe what he said before was right...but this..."I...that's not why I..." What's going on here? Why is Naruto saying such things? "What the hell Naruto? That's not why I..." Kuroka tried to explain herself

But Naruto cut her off. "Oh, I've heard all the stories. Senjutsu was so much more important to you than your sister's life."

No, he's wrong, dead wrong. Shirone is Kuroka's priority, always has been. Naruto's words fraught Kuroka's heart and it was bringing her into a rage. She gritted her teeth and rose up from her bed. "What do you know about me!" Naruto was pushing her to the brink.

Naruto was not at all fazed by Kuroka's anger. "I know that when things are at their worst, you will leave your sister, to the wolves. Nah you'd throw her to them to save yourself."

"No...I...I would never..." Kuroka breathing became erratic, and she clutched her chest in distress. What Naruto says can't be right...It can't be true!

Naruto got up from his chair and got in Kuroka's face. Kuroka's face was on the edge of tears, while Naruto's was unchanged. "You abandoned her back then, and you'll abandon her again! She was never important to you was she!"

Kuroka, fuelled and inflamed by anger and distress, launched herself and grabbed Naruto by his collar; shoving him back on his chair. She held him tight. Within her grip, Naruto could feel he arms shake. He looked up at her face...to see her crying. Tears travelled down her cheeks with no signs of stopping.

"THAT IS NOT TRUE! THAT IS NOT TRUE!" Kuroka frantically shouted at Naruto and repeated her words over and over. To convince herself, to convince him; she didn't abandon her sister. That isn't who she is. "...That is not true..." Her head hanged down, and she tried to stop her erratic breathing.

Naruto gently reached out to Kuroka, slowly scratching her Neko ear. When he did that, she looked up at him; he was smiling at her...it felt so humane. What's going on?

"Of course, it's not true."

Kuroka couldn't understand or follow what just happened. At first, he showed her nothing but compassion. Then he switched and showed her disdain and hatred. Only to then turn back.

"What...?"

Naruto gently held on to her hands to calm her nerves. He lost his aggressive tone and spoke with a caring one. "Right or wrong, the correct choice or a mistake. Everything you've ever done, you did it for her. I know it, you know it, and Yasaka knows it." Naruto then guided her to sit on his chair. He then pulled up his own, and they sat next to each other. "Don't use hindsight as an excuse to blame yourself. Because you could only deal with the fate, you saw coming. The fate you saved Shirone from."

Kuroka was calming down and composing herself; she became more open. "It was just me. I was the only one who could look after her nya. Our mother and father are gone...there was no one else. I had to be better than them nya." She had to be perfect for her.

"Oh, my friend...you think you're the only one who's stumbled in life? To not be able to do what you sort out to do?" Kuroka wasn't the only one.

Naruto was just like that. "There's a good friend of mine...and in time I thought of him as a brother even though we were from different clans. One day he intended to leave our home and us behind. I promised my friends that I would get him back; promised myself I wouldn't lose my closest friend."

"And what happened to this friend of yours nya?" Kuroka didn't know why she even asked that; when did she become invested.

"I failed...I lost to him."

Kuroka was expecting a happier ending or something to cheer her up; that was Naruto's intent. But Naruto actually failed?

Naruto continued. "And for years that failure stuck with me. I dedicated my life to becoming stronger so I could get him back. But it always felt like I had walls around me. The further I got...the worse it became. To the point where I even questioned myself...what was I even doing anymore." The attack on the Kage summit, Sasuke being branded a criminal in all Nations, Naruto was near the end of his rope.

Kuroka has always wanted to know more about Naruto. Mostly his Senjutsu...but she wouldn't mind learning more about whom he is and his past. "What happened to this friend of yours nya?"

Naruto smiled and answered. "I got him back. It took years, but I got him back."

Kuroka...kinda expected that answer. But Naruto took it a step further and reached out to her shoulder. "Kuroka I won't lie, it was hard, and boy was it painful. But to me, it was worth enduring all of it to get my friend back." Naruto then pulled back and held her hands; getting a surprise stutter out of Kuroka.

"It will be hard, it will be painful, and who knows how long it could take. But let me ask you this. To you, is Shirone worth enduring all of that, if it means you have a chance to get your sister back?"

Kuroka gently pulled back her hands from Naruto, and she thought about her answer. Everything she's been through, Shirone, her family, and the words spoken today.

She had her answer.

Kuroka quickly grabbed onto Naruto's hands for strength, and she told him her answer. "Shirone is all I have left. I don't care what I have to endure if it means I can get her back nya. Even if she refuses to leave the Devils...if she looks at me like she did when we were kids, and not as it was back in the forest; I would be happy nya...we would be sisters again."

That's exactly what Naruto wanted to hear. He then pulled one hand out of Kuroka's, and tapped her chest, where her heart would be; narrowly missing her breasts. "Then hold on to that goal with everything you've got. Because as long as you keep trying and never give up, there will always be a way."

Naruto made it seem possible. For the first time, Kuroka felt like she had some semblance of a chance. But it was more symbolic than real. "Naruto...I'm still a Stray Devil nya. The New Satan Faction will never let me get close to Shirone. And any other faction will kill me. With so much against me...do I really have a chance nya?"

Naruto then opened his ninja pouch and gave Kuroka something. It was a camera.

"What's on this?" Why did Naruto give this to her?

"A new beginning."

That only made Kuroka even more confused. "I don't...nya?"

"On that camera is something I think you should see. It can make all the difference to you." Naruto's demeanour became serious, something Kuroka quickly noticed. "But I should let you know, I don't have permission to show you or anyone what's on there. If Gaara knew about this, I'd be in some real trouble." Stuff Naruto would have a hard time talking his way out of.

"If it's that big of a deal, why take such a risk with me nya?"

"Why wouldn't I take such a risk for a friend?"

Friend...is Naruto serious? He actually thinks of Kuroka as a friend? "How could you think of me as a friend? After everything I..."

Naruto stopped her right there. "Because I know you, I know why you did it. It wasn't out of nefarious or traitorous intent. So I won't hold it against or above you." Naruto then gestured to the camera. He wanted Kuroka to see what's on it.

Kuroka felt her chest become heavy. Why did it feel like this is going to change everything?

Kuroka decided, and turned on the camera, moving the side screen to see the video. It looked like a security video of some kind.

Just then, Kuroka saw who's on the video...it's her? "That Stray Devil?" The spider that Naruto captured; she was restrained and hooked up to several machines. After several seconds, two more people appeared on the screen. "Naruto...and who's that?" Kuroka could see Naruto's front, but the other guy in a black cloak had his back to her. "What are they doing to her?"

Suddenly the recording got a little glitchy, but Kuroka could still follow it. The room became shrouded in some blue aura, radiating from Naruto and the other guy. Kuroka took a closer look at Naruto and saw his eyes change colour.

It was a bit like his Senjutsu...but something was different about it.

The two then grabbed hands, and then suddenly placed them on the Stray Devil.

That's when everything changed.

Kuroka couldn't understand what she was seeing. So much so, her hands nearly gave out. She covered her mouth to hide her shock.

The Stray Devil spider was changing...the eight legs soon became two...human legs? The eyes, the body, everything changed to that of a human's form?

"What in the...?"

Kuroka's hands lost all of their strength, and she dropped the camera, but Naruto managed to catch it in time.

"Naruto...w...w...what was that? What did you do to her nya?"

"We removed the Devil piece and turned her back into a human."

Kuroka's entire body, her soul, froze. There were things she wanted to ask, to say. But her lips refused to move. All she could do was look at Naruto with shrunken eyes, in pure disbelief.

"Kuroka...we found a way to turn people back, and all the tests and research shows it can work on species other than former humans; such as Youkai for instance. Because her mind was already destroyed, she now has the mentality of a baby. But for those who still have their mind intact..."

After what felt like a lifetime, Kuroka finally spoke. "You...you mean you can..." Kuroka stopped herself. She had to ask, she had to know for sure. "Tell me what I just saw is true Naruto nya. I need to hear you say it. Did you really find a way to undo the Peerage System?"

"It's all true. I was there. Right now, my people are developing a device that can do what you just saw on mass." I would've been a real problem if they couldn't. "I have to tell you my people might not trust you with this, after what happened ya'know."

Kuroka then reached out to Naruto, clutching him by his shoulders. "Then, how?" Kuroka was on the edge, on the verge of becoming unhinged. She wanted to know, she wanted to know so badly.

"If we can prove to them, you are someone who can be trusted. Then I can make a case on your behalf."

"You would do that for me...why..."

"Friends, remember; can I stop repeating that?"

Kuroka leaned back in her chair, getting her mind straight. "Is this real" Is there truly a way to do the impossible..."I can become a full Neko again...?" It's like a dream...and Naruto would go this far for her?

"Can I hold on to this camera...please?" Kuroka couldn't part with it.

Naruto smiled and nodded. "Sure...but don't let anyone see or know about this." Naruto stood up from his chair. "It's your choice Kuroka. But know I have your back. So if you ever need to talk about it, don't be afraid to ask ya'know." Naruto's done what he came to do and moved to leave Kuroka to her thoughts.

With shaking hands, Kuroka picked up the camera again. She held it with care like it's a new-born baby. She watched the recording over and over again. Every time it ended, she feared she would wake up from a dream; what she saw today wasn't real. So she played it again, and again, each time to confirm this is reality.

Tears travelled down Kuroka's cheeks yet again, but she had a smile on her face. There's hope in her life once again.

"I can be a Neko again..."

.

---

"You're a real bleeding heart, you know that."

"What you think I should've left her alone?"

"All I'm saying is you can't ignore people when they're suffering; always got to thumb your nose in it."

"It's a gift."

"More like a curse."

Naruto and Kurama conversed as they closed Kuroka's door. Kurama felt like pointing it out to Naruto; even when he barely knows them, he gets involved. He did the same thing for Kiba and Naruto hasn't even talked to the Devil brat.

Naruto closed Kuroka's door shut, he needs to give her space. Her decision will dictate her new path.

Once he made sure the door was shut tight, Naruto turned to leave and meet up with Gaara and Yasaka, to talk about the Alliance's course of action.

To Naruto's surprise, someone was waiting for him outside Kuroka's room.

"H-Hinata...hi." In Naruto's stupefied state, his words stuttered.

Hinata, with her hands clasped together at her front, was waiting for Naruto. "It seems you were able to help Kuroka."

"Um...yeah I guess I did. Hinata...how much of that did you hear?" Is Naruto busted?

"I came looking for you, but then I heard Kuroka shout. I heard everything afterwards." Which means she knows about the camera.

Naruto's in trouble!

"Kurama! Why didn't you tell me Hinata was outside?!"

"I was sleeping."

"Nice try, you heard the entire conversation I had with Kuroka!"

"So you've decided to leave the recording with Kuroka, Naruto-Kun?" Hinata asked.

"Good Luck with the rest, I'm taking a nap."

"You said you just slept!"

No good Kurama's not answering, Naruto's on his own. Since it's Hinata that's found him out, he has no choice but to be honest with her.

"Yeah, I did. We know how Kuroka's been ever since we got back from Kuoh." Naruto voiced his genuine thoughts. "More than anyone else, she needed to know this...and even if it meant stealing sensitive information. I still stand by my decision to do it." Naruto doesn't regret his choice.

There was a moment of silence between the two Shinobi. Hinata's face was unreadable, and Naruto was hoping, begging he hasn't just angered or disappointed Hinata.

Hinata reached out to him, pulled him close; and to Naruto's surprise, gave him a quick peck on the cheek. Hinata then pulled back with a sweet smile.

"You're not mad?"

Hinata shook her head. "I disagree with the method. But I agree with the result. Kuroka needed to know about the operation. Or else who knows how bad she'll get."

Naruto breathed out a huge sigh of relief. "Sorry I didn't let you in on it. I figured if I was found out, then only I would be at fault."

"That's not how this works Naruto-Kun. A part of being in a relationship is sharing. Our choices, goals; the good times and the bad." Hinata wants to share such moments with Naruto. "I intended to convince Kakashi and Gaara to show Kuroka the operation too."

Naruto laughed a little. "We both had the same intentions, but different methods huh...we're both bleeding hearts then," Naruto whispered that last part.

"Pardon?"

"Oh, nothing." Naruto waved his hand quickly and tried to move things along. "We should ah...get moving. Gaara and Yasaka wanted to talk about the Shinobi's response to what happened in the Land of Iron."

"Very well." Hinata then placed her finger on Naruto's nose, catching him by surprise. "I hope I won't find out you've stolen anything else from Konoha." Her smile was the embodiment of danger.

"I'm pretty sure this was a onetime thing ya'know." Naruto nodded his head rapidly, hoping to escape said danger.

Because Naruto's pretty sure Hinata will bust him next time.

.

---

Arriving at the meeting room, Naruto and Hinata found Gaara waiting outside. Why's he not going in?

"Naruto. Hinata." Gaara greeted them first.

"Lord Kazekage." Hinata bowed respectably

"Hey, Gaara." Naruto greeted casually. "What are you waiting out here for anyway?"

Gaara gestured to the meeting room. "Azazel has finally answered Yasaka's calls. She's been speaking to him for a while now." Best to not let Azazel see Gaara for the time being. "If Yasaka can successfully strike a deal with him, hopefully, we can learn more about this Khaos Brigade."

Sound logic...but Gaara seemed a little off to Naruto. His mind lingered elsewhere.

Naruto had a good idea why. With the knowledge that there are more stones in the Old Satan Faction's hands; and can be deployed and recalled at will, all the Nations are under threat of attack.

Such as Gaara's home, Sunagakure.

"No one would blame you if you wanted to go back to the Hidden Sands Village Gaara."

"I've sent Temari back to make sure the Hidden Sand's defences are up and are adequate. I have to trust Sunagakure to Temari and Kankurō."

Hinata was still concerned. "But how do 'you' feel about this Lord Kazekage?" Professionalism and personal feelings intersect more often than people realise.

"As Gaara of the Sand, I long to return home to make sure my people are protected. But as the Kazekage and member of the Shinobi Union, I cannot shrink from my responsibilities here." Gaara was appointed and trusted to oversee the Shinobi's efforts in this world. "If we are to win this conflict, it will be done on this side of the line." And the sooner they track down the Old Satan Faction, and this Khaos Brigade, the sooner they can turn the tide; with them on the offensive.

The Three Shinobi all agreed with that goal. They stop the stones on this side; the Shinobi world will be safe.

"You may enter now," Yasaka called out to them from inside the meeting room. She sounded tired...maybe she's annoyed about something.

.

---

Yasaka and Azazel have struck a deal. If Kokabiel's handed over, then Azazel will answer questions from the Youkai Faction...within reason. The terms set are a team sent by Yasaka will journey to Fallen Angel territory and exchange Kokabiel for a meeting with Azazel.

Under different circumstances, it would be better for Azazel to come here...even if Yasaka doesn't care much for his company. However, Benimaru has reported sightings at the borders of Youkai territory. Devils, members of the Church, Fallen Angels have so far been detected. There will most likely be more.

"Okay, Azazel can't come here. We need to go to him. So who's being sent?" Naruto asked. He already felt the need to gear up for a new mission.

Yasaka had a recommendation. "As we hoped, Azazel has taken an interest in those that defeated Kokabiel; more specificity you Naruto."

Naruto smirked. "It's nice to be popular."

Yasaka smiled too. Azazel has always been one who seeks to sate his curiosity. "And we can use that popularity to our advantage. Azazel will be more interested in speaking to you than anyone else I can send, giving you quite the opportunity to strike up a conversation with him." But the actual reason is twofold. There's no guarantee Azazel will tell them everything they need to know. But since Naruto is an unknown existence, Azazel will want to learn as much about him as he can. He'll need to be more cordial with Naruto to achieve that.

Certain questions he won't answer with others. He might answer with Naruto, if only for his own questions to be answered. The final reason is with Kurama's help, Naruto can tell if Azazel is lying or telling the truth. Even if Azazel doesn't answer the questions correctly, the more he talks, the more Naruto learns; and Kurama can determine if the information is hot or cold.

Gaara then took over and explained Naruto's objectives. "Your priority is to learn Kokabiel's movements and anything related to this Khaos Brigade. Your secondary objective is to convince Azazel to come to a sit down at a time of our choosing."

"You want to bring him into the fold?" That's what it sounded like to Naruto.

Yasaka then spoke. "We need allies, and Azazel can be a great addition to our Alliance." She may not like the man, but Yasaka knows Azazel can be beneficial. "We have a trump card in this meeting. The Old Satan Faction and how far they've spread."

"Right, that Reaper thing." The one Sasuke captured and has kept sealed.

Yasaka brought her hands together; an air of concern surrounded her. She knew the danger that's been presented. "Pluto is one of the strongest Grim Reapers. But he is also the most loyal. It's impossible to think he turned on Hades."

This also worried Gaara. Before their only enemy was the Old Satan Faction, but with a Grim Reaper involved. "It stands to reason Hades, and by extension, the Greek Faction has joined the Old Satan Faction and is against us." Which also means Hades, one of the Top Ten is their enemy.

"It's possible only Hades joined them. He has no love for his fellow Greek Gods. But two things are certain. The Greek Faction is compromised; meeting them is something I cannot agree to." They don't know how far it's spread within the Faction. Aside from Hades, they won't know if the other Gods are allied with the Old Satan Faction or not.

"And the other reason Lady Yasaka?" Hinata asked.

This is what truly worried Yasaka. "Hades loathes those of the Three Factions. Before now, the very idea of that foul God working with any one of them was unthinkable." Yet his most loyal servant fought alongside Devils. "Either Hades has been promised something great...or someone is there that he cannot refuse."

There is also those dragons, that have been reported to lack souls. Yasaka and her people will need to look into any spells that can create such creatures.

"Correct assumption or not, Azazel won't be able to ignore this." Gaara's sand travelled across the room, to a chest. It opened the chest and pulled out a weapon. "Pluto's scythe. This is your trump card against Azazel."

Naruto picked up the weapon. He felt its energy, it felt toxic and sickly. "Sasuke said this was used to poison several Samurai."

"Not poison, curse," Yasaka spoke. "The weapon allows a Grim Reaper to attack the life force of the victim. In time, the victim will die from the cruse, or his or her soul will be harvested by the Reaper."

"Charming." Kurama thought.

Naruto sealed the weapon away and pocketed the scroll. "Alright, we got our orders. But how do we even get to the Underworld?" He doesn't have to hijack another train, does he?

"I'll pick out a guide for you. My concern is whether or not your arrival to the Underworld will be noticed or not." Not just the Underworld, there are plenty of watchers at the edges of Kyoto who are keeping an eye out.

"While you're doing that, we'll be establishing new defensive tactics to counter any future assaults." Gaara then pulled out several documents, each one detailing different plans and ideas.

"Since the Devils and most Factions of this world have a form of airpower. The Shinobi will be establishing its own air force. Using designs and material captured from the now extinct 'Sora no Kuni', the Land of The Sky." They saw designs of a golden-winged device used by a single Shinobi to fly, far bigger versions manned by four Shinobi to bombard the ground with beams of Chakra.

"Lady Yasaka. The technology of this world is more advanced. Can you get us new material and help us improve these designs."

"Yes, we can work out a trade agreement. However, some members of my court will have concerns with the Shinobi developing such weapons." They're allies, and Yasaka trusts them. But they will want assurances.

Gaara headed her off to make sure such concerns aren't warranted. "As part of the trade deal. An additional clause will be added. That any and all weapons created from these designs and any new ones cannot be deployed on this world without a majority from the Alliance member's approval."

Yasaka notice the choice of words in that agreement. "Ah...I see...you've already incorporated the notion of our Alliance growing with new members." If the Fallen Angels join them, if the Angels join and more; they will all get a say in the agreement.

But Yasaka could still spot issues. "Under such a time frame, you won't have many made, or Shinobi trained to use them. How will you handle deployment?" The next attack could hit any Nation. If they spread their forces too thin, their defences won't stop an assault. Too focused in certain Nations and there will be holes for the Old Satan Faction to slip through.

"A barrier is used to block communication. To counter this, we will deploy a web of signal stations across the Shinobi world, with multiple redundant systems to prevent failure. If they use that barrier again and a signal is interrupted and not restored within the set time, we'll send our forces there." It's the best defence they have as of this moment, the counter their textbook assault.

On paper, the idea was sound. But to Yasaka the issue of deployment still persists. If the attack is nations away from their new air force, how will they arrive in time?

Not only that; these flying devices won't give them the same manoeuvrability that the Devils have.

Yasaka brainstormed for any ideas she can think of to combat these two weaknesses.

That's when it hit Yasaka...there is something they can do.

"Lord Kazekage...while these machines can give you airpower, your forces will still be at a disadvantage against the Old Satan Faction in the air. I propose a new joint effort to specifically create a flight Jutsu for your Shinobi." Flight magic is used by many Factions, Youkai included. It might be difficult, but if they can make one for the Shinobi. It will even the playing field.

"I'll let my fellow Kage know of this offer. These devices will still be made as we don't know how long or how many Shinobi will be able to use this Jutsu." There are only a few Shinobi with a form of flight; Naruto with Six Paths Sage Mode, Sasuke with his Susanoo, Gaara with his sand and Onoki with his earth style; a few more as well.

The Shinobi world is sorely lacking those that can fly.

Yasaka then voiced her other idea to improve the Shinobi's chances. "And there is a way to fix the deployment crisis at hand." Yasaka then looked over to the window...in the direction of the shrine with the summing circle. "With can construct summing shrines across the Elemental Nations, which can be used to transport your forces to Nations where the single's been interrupted."

To Gaara, this was more than they could ask for. This will sort out so many problems their forces have. Sending Shinobi, reinforcing positions and more; this is just what they need. But Gaara knew, that the shrine isn't something they can just give, even if Yasaka thinks it's for the best.

The Shinobi need to have something to offer in return, and Gaara has something that the Youkai would be very interested in.

"Lady Yasaka, your offer is more than we can ask for. It is just what we need to defender our home. But we cannot accept it without offering suitable compensation. Or others may come to believe we are taking advantage of your generosity. Our Alliance must be an equal partnership."

"Then what do you offer in return?"

Gaara then pulled out another document in a sealed folder. The seals on it were of top quality. It would take time for even Naruto to break through them unless you have the key; which Gaara has.

Gaara applied the key to the Jutsu formula, and the black markings disappeared.

"I believe this is something you and your people will be interested in." Gaara handed her the folder.

Yasaka's interest was piqued. None of the other documents had such security measures. The way Gaara spoke of this one made it sound larger than life, a real game-changer.

With the folder in her hands, Yasaka started to gently open it.

Knock, Knock.

Yasaka was interrupted by someone knocking on the door. Yasaka told her guards not to disturb unless it was necessary.

What's occurred?

"Enter."

The door slid open, and a Youkai guard kneeled to his highness.

"Lady Yasaka, I apologies for disturbing you."

"It is fine. What news needs to be brought to my attention?"

"A woman from the Church has arrived. She has asked to meet you and Naruto. She says she has vital information for you both"

Naruto was surprised just like Yasaka was. "Me?...Wait..." With Kurama's help, he felt out the new presence...he felt strong Holy Power near...her?

"Isn't that..."

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---

(A few minutes earlier.)

---

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At the summing shrine that leads to Urakyoto, several Youkai guards stood watch. This was their usual shift. It's them standing guard, watching humans pass by in their daily life's. It's a really boring post, but it's also a peaceful one; and the weather was pleasant.

Two guards passed the time with gossip and rumours.

"You guys know what the brass intend to do with Kokabiel?"

"Well, I heard Lady Yasaka has tried contacting Azazel for the past few days now."

"Seriously...I thought Yasaka couldn't stand him. Whatever happened between them two anyway?"

"I don't know something to do with Princess Kunou."

"Wait a minute, is Azazel, the father?"

"What! Of course not! Come on you've seen Princess Kunou you know she's not part Fallen Angel." Lady Yasaka would be livid if a rumour of Azazel being the father spread around Urakyoto. "How did that thought even get in your...!"

"Would you two shut your bickering!" The captain of the guards shouted in annoyance. "Look over there." The captain pointed out. "We have a visitor."

The other guards followed suit and saw someone approaching them, a human but shrouded in a white cloak. There was something on the human's back, wrapped in white cloth.

The guards could fell Holy Power from this human, and the human is heading right to them.

The guard captain walked out. "Halt." He put his hand up to stop her approach. "What business do you have here?"

The human stopped in front of them and spoke. "Vital business." It was a woman's voice. "I've come bearing news from the Church for Lady Yasaka and Naruto Uzumaki."

How does this woman know about Naruto Uzumaki? "Take off your hood."

The woman complied and removed her white hood. A familiar lock of blue hair was revealed.

The guard captain remembered her. "You decided to return after all." He thought that voice sounded familiar. The guard captain turned to one of his men. "Call it in."

One of the guards rushed off to report this.

The guard captain returned to their visitor. "I suppose I should greet you properly. Welcome back to Urakyoto...Xenovia."

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---

Xenovia was allowed through, under escort of course; she walked through the streets of Urakyoto. Drawing the attention of many of its residents. Her face betrayed no emotion, remaining steadfast...despite her current situation.

Walking up the steps to the palace, there she saw them, Lady Yasaka and Naruto Uzumaki. Both looked surprised from seeing her, more her being alone. Lady Yasaka and Naruto approached her, but before they could say a word, Xenovia got on one knee.

"Lady Yasaka...I thank you for allowing me in your city. I apologise for not informing you beforehand. I was unable to do that..." Xenovia tried to explain herself; she wanted to avoid looking rude to the queen of Youkai.

"There is no need to worry yourself Xenovia." Yasaka held up her hand to stop Xenovia from talking. "While I am surprised by your sudden visit at this time, I trust you have an important reason for being here." It wasn't lost on Yasaka, the sight of Xenovia being here alone.

It wasn't lost on Naruto either. There was something aloof about Xenovia. Not just alone, but also missing something.

"The cross around her neck is gone." To Xenovia, it's like Naruto's headband, not something you would ever part with.

Xenovia stood up, but the guards around her became weary. They too felt something was up.

"It's fine, she's a good friend and can be trusted."Naruto came to her defence and joined Xenovia's side.

Yasaka signalled the Youkai to lower their guard, and so they did. Nodding to Naruto as thanks, Xenovia explained her reasoning for being here.

"I informed the Church of your request and the events that happened in Kuoh. They wish to speak to the ones who captured Kokabiel, including the one who now holds the Fused Excalibur." They wish to see Naruto's team, and Raphtalia, the first Youkai to ever wield a Holy Sword.

"When and where do they want to see us?" Naruto asked.

"There is a local Christian Church in Kyoto that can serve as a meeting place. The time is of your choosing." Since the Youkai and Angel Factions aren't on bad terms. A Christian Church was allowed to be built within Kyoto if merely to improve relations. "I'm afraid I don't know who will speak to you." That was something Xenovia wasn't told.

This was good news for the Alliance. They have secured an open dialogue with the Church. Hopefully, this can be pushed to something more. Yet despite this news, Xenovia showed no signs of leaving. In fact, she looked like she had more to say.

Taking a breath to calm her nerves, Xenovia spoke. "Lady Yasaka, while this may be presumptuous for me to ask. But will you allow me to reside in your city of Urakyoto?" Xenovia urged the queen of Youkai.

This perplexed Naruto and caused suspicions within Yasaka, not for Xenovia aims, but her reasoning. Sensing a turn of events, Yasaka sent her guards away. The three can now have a more private conversation.

"I know I said you could come back here, but I never expected you would want to live here... Xenovia what's going on?" Something didn't feel right to Naruto.

"Due to the events of my mission...I...I have been excommunicated from the Church." Xenovia has lost her home.

"Excommunicated? Wait you mean banished...they kicked you out, why?" Xenovia may not have been able to retrieve the Excaliburs, but that was out of her control. She's not at fault for that.

"You were sacrificed." Yasaka could see through it; she is perceptive.

"For what?"

"To maintain their power base." Whether God is truly dead or not, Xenovia is a threat. "The Church, the Angel Faction...they rely on the prayers of their followers for power and influence. If the God of the Bible is gone, or mere rumours of his death spread. It can completely fracture their Faction."

"So rather than bringing her into the fold, they kick her to the curve." If they lose their power, then they become vulnerable to their enemies. That Naruto could understand. But Xenovia is loyal without a doubt. Even with God's death, she would have continued to fight and even die for the Church and Heaven.

She willing walked into the meat grinder that was Kokabiel for the Church.

Is this how much loyalty is worth?

But then Naruto remembered something. Before leaving Urakyoto back then...what Xenovia asked him moments before leaving. "Xenovia...did you know this would happen?"

Xenovia remained still for a moment, before silently nodding her head. "I had a feeling...after meeting Asia Argento."

"Issei's girlfriend?" Or whatever relationship they have.

"Even after becoming a Devil, her faith and love for God was unshaken. If someone like that can be banished for only healing a Devil. How could I, one who has learned of his demise have a chance...?" After everything that happened, after speaking with Naruto, after returning to the Church. She couldn't get it out of her head, how someone so loyal could be deemed a heretic.

"We're not turning you away, but what about your friends and family?" Her mother, father and Irina?

"My family, friends and home was the Church. With my banishment, I cannot see them again. I have no relatives to seek, I was born an orphan. My final order before banishment was to deliver this message to you." After that, Xenovia is on her own.

"They sent her here?" This brought Naruto pause. "They banished her, so why not send someone else?" This is something Naruto will need to remember for later.

Naruto then turned to Yasaka, silently pleading her to accept Xenovia.

Yasaka thought about it for a moment before answering. "You full-field your end of the agreement, that I thank you for." Yasaka didn't need to accept her offer. But she felt different. "Hard times are looming overhead for all of us. So I won't turn away one who needs help, and can aid us just as we can aid you."

"You mean?" Xenovia with wide-open eyes asked.

Yasaka smiled sweetly. "You may stay."

Xenovia was truly thankful. "Thank you so much my...my Lady." Guess Xenovia needs to address her differently now.

"Tell me, how do you wish to aid us?" Yasaka asked. What does Xenovia wish to do now?

Xenovia stood up straight. "I wish to join your human allies and fight by Naruto Uzumaki's side." She said with such conviction.

"Huh?" Naruto didn't see that coming.

Xenovia turned to him to plead her case. "While there's much for me to learn, I can still aid you on any mission." She then reached out and grabbed a handle on her back. "And as long as I wield this blade, I can fight."

Naruto peeked over her shoulder, he recognises that handle. "Durandal? They let you keep that?" She lost the cross but kept the sword? The hell?

Xenovia then looked away; she became a bit tense, uneasy, and timid. She was shaking a little. "S-someone spoke up for me on my behalf and t-thanks to her I was allowed to keep Durandal...as there is no one else who can wield this blade." Dark shadows hung over Xenovia's eyes. Whoever this 'she' puts the fear in her.

Naruto wondered about Xenovia joining his team. She can fight...rusty in some areas, but that can improve with the right training. She has firsthand knowledge of the Church, which can be handy in the field at times. But Xenovia doesn't understand the nature of the relationship between the Youkai and the 'human allies' she's referring to.

"What to do here?" Didn't want to say no...but Naruto didn't have the right to say yes either. "Damn it."

"Xenovia." Yasaka came to Naruto's aid. "We should let Naruto discuss this with his superiors. So why don't you join me for a moment."

Naruto silently thanked Yasaka for the save. Xenovia was surprised by Yasaka's offer but couldn't refuse. Yasaka and Xenovia left Naruto alone, who looked up to see what's above him.

Naruto saw a floating eye covered in sand. It was Gaara's Third Eye Jutsu. Used for scouting; or in this moment, to join a conversation without revealing himself.

Naruto and Gaara will need to discuss this.

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---

A Few Minutes Later:

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Xenovia was giving a quick tour of the palace. Last time she was here, she was always under guard, and her movements were restricted. Xenovia must say the Japanese style culture is an intriguing sight. She's so used to the western culture of the Church.

Xenovia got to meet Hinata and Raphtalia again; both were also pleased to see her. Although there was no sign of Konohamaru...must be busy with something.

It was strange...they greeted her so warmly when they barely know her. Xenovia thought back to the Church...and how people she's known for years. How they've completely turned on her...all except for two.

Xenovia didn't really know what to say about that. Then again, Xenovia has never had much of a social life in and outside the Church to begin with.

In time she found herself in the meeting room from before, joined by Yasaka, Hinata and Raphtalia. Naruto's still not returned yet. Xenovia hoped her request will be accepted. She knows she basically dropped it on them right from the start. But Xenovia can't help feel she'll never grow the way she hopes unless she's a part of Naruto's team. The 'Will of Fire' he told her about, she wants to learn more about it. Following Naruto might give her the insight she needs.

Maybe learn what she wants to do with her life.

Or maybe she's just being selfish?

Suddenly the door to the meeting room slid open. Naruto rejoined them, but he wasn't alone. A young man with spiky red hair, with some symbol above his left eye, entered the room with Naruto.

"Is he Naruto's boss?" He carried a different presence than Naruto.

Naruto sat down between Hinata and Xenovia, nodding to her with a smile as he took his seat. The one with red hair sat next to Lady Yasaka. "He must have an important position to sit next to the queen of Youkai."

What's about to be discussed here...Xenovia couldn't shake the feeling she wasn't the only topic of the day.

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---

"Thanks to Xenovia we now know the Church Faction wishes to meet. However, since Azazel what's to meet immediately and the Church Faction have allowed us to set the time frame; Naruto, you and your team, will carry out your standing orders." Trade Kokabiel to the Fallen Angels for information.

"Cool, but who's getting us to the Underworld and guiding us to Fallen Angel turf?" Without that someone, this mission's just theoretical.

"I have several recommendations that can..." Yasaka was about to list the guides that can accompany Naruto on his mission.

But she was interrupted by the door sliding open.

"Why don't I just handle it nya."

Yasaka's attention shot to the doorway. "Kuroka?" She's up? Yasaka took a closer look at her; she leaned against the door frame, with a mischievous smirk. "She seems so high spirited." A complete contrast to how she's been these last few days. "She isn't faking this...what's happened to her?"

Kuroka strolled into the room and sat behind Naruto, wrapping one arm around his neck. "When it comes to getting in and out the Underworld undetected, no one's better at it than me nya." She playful poked Naruto's cheek as she spoke. "And I know the Underworld like the back of my hand. So do yourself a favour and just pick me Naruto nya." Kuroka rested her head on Naruto's shoulder, playfully fishing for an answer.

This went over Yasaka's head. Kuroka's done a complete one-eighty. Last time she tried to get through to that Neko, Kuroka pushed her out of the room. Before Yasaka could answer, Naruto cut her off.

"We also need someone to fill in for Konohamaru." Naruto showed no reaction to the Neko rubbing her cheek and purring on his shoulder. "He's busy with Senjutsu training, and I don't want to interrupt it." After what happened in the Land of Iron, Konohamaru will need a power-up.

"Who would you...?" Yasaka tried to ask, but once again, she was interrupted.

Naruto turned to face Xenovia, catching her by surprise. "Well ya up for it Xenovia? You can fill in for Konohamaru and have a trial run with us. Find out if you really want to join the team for good ya'know."

Wait, Xenovia just got accepted? When did that happen? "I'll be glad to, but...?"

"It's cool." Naruto turned to face his boss. "Right, Gaara?"

Gaara stayed silent; what will his answer be?

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Flashback:

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Naruto came to Gaara's office after seeing his Third Eye Jutsu. It helps that Naruto won't have to repeat everything Xenovia told him. They have a great opportunity with the Church, but Xenovia's request does pose a problem. One Naruto and Gaara need to come to terms with.

"You honestly think Xenovia should join your team." When Gaara asked, that was Naruto's response. Sure he's already been able to work with her, but adding her to his team; will inevitably mean Xenovia learning the truth about Naruto and the Shinobi.

"Not just her...but I think Kuroka should join as well." Not forced to, but asked.

Xenovia's one thing, but Kuroka's a whole other story. After what she did, the Kage are all sceptical about her loyalties. Will she run away again, Next time with vital intelligence?

That's there worry. "Naruto...disregarding all personal reasons you have. The Kage will want assurances that both girls can help us and not betray us down the line." While Gaara wants to help them as well; he's the Kazekage, he can't just act however he pleases.

"No, I understand why it's like that." Naruto did not fault Gaara for his reasoning. It's just the nature of the circumstances they're in.

Gaara sat at his desk, hands together, waiting for Naruto's augment.

Naruto needs to make a strong case for the two lost girls. "Other than the fact they're in trouble and need help..." No that's not good enough for the Kage to take such a risk on them. "Okay, Xenovia was excommunicated...banished from the Church. To them it's like us and Missing-Nin, guys like Valper were excommunicated, so you get the idea."

"Where are you going with this?"

"Xenovia can't go back to the Church under any circumstances. And she told me she's an orphan, and the Church was her only home. She's had nowhere else to go, that she had to rely on strangers to take her in. She won't turn on us when we're the only option she has left." There's nowhere else for her to go. "And since she was excommunicated, her words mean nothing to those of the Church. I saw how Xenovia and Irina acted around Asia, and now Xenovia's in the same position." People of the Church won't even humour Xenovia's presence. To them, her words are heresy and lies.

Gaara took that on board and moved on to his next question. "Now how can Xenovia aid us in this time of turmoil?"

"We're up against the Old Satan Faction, and Xenovia has Durandal and Devils are vulnerable to a True Holy Sword ya'know." It's said a single cut can kill even a High-Class Devil. "But more importantly, Xenovia was allowed to keep Durandal even though she was kicked out; because someone spoke up for her, defended her. Don't you get it? We have a potential ally within the Church, and we haven't even talked to them yet. This woman looked out for Xenovia in her time of need, and if we do the same, she'll have a reason to trust and work with us." Having someone backing them inside the Church will be a boon to their cause, and it sounds like this woman has influence.

Gaara admitted that is beneficial. The Angel faction has closed themselves off for a long time. Reaching them could be an issue. But if someone on the inside sides with them, it could make a difference.

But is Xenovia's character, one that can be trusted? That is something Gaara will need to see for himself. "Then how does Kuroka fit into this. After what happened, can you prove she won't run on Yasaka or us in the future?"

Naruto pulled up a chair and sat down at Gaara's desk. Naruto took a different stance, one that carried more sympathy. "Kuroka ran not out of treachery but out of love. It was for her sister, not to stab us in the back."

"But how do we know she won't do that again?" How do the Shinobi know Kuroka will control herself?

"Because Kuroka knows Shirone won't go with her, not as things are. I was there in the forest." Naruto saw it happen. "Shirone rejected Kuroka even after she tried explaining everything. Kuroka won't do it again because she knows it won't work." It's why she's been stuck in her room for days now.

Naruto knew he had to keep going and give a reason for Kuroka to join them. How can Kuroka aid them?

"Kuroka knows how to get in and out of the Underworld undetected. I can't get in the Underworld...and escaping..." Naruto nervously laughed. "Unless you want me stealing a train every time...then what else we got?"

But that wasn't just it, there was one more reason why Kuroka can be a big help. "Kuroka was also a member of a Peerage for years. She knows how they work; she knows how Devil society operates and understands their political games." She was able to catch on about the marriage and un-official Rating Game between Rias and Raiser. "So if stuff like Devil politics comes up in the field, she can help me understand their games." Kuroka has firsthand knowledge.

"Isn't Kuroka bias against the Devils?"

"I'll be able to tell what's her bias hatred and genuine understanding of Devil political crap." If not, then Kurama can help.

It looked like Gaara was considering his arguments. This was good, but Naruto wanted to deliver the final nail to cement the verdict. "Gaara...we of all people should understand her. Kuroka's position is just like a Jinchuriki. Outside these walls, the world rejects her." Naruto looked into Gaara's eyes with a pressing stare. "We know what happens to people who live such a life. If we don't help her...what will she become down the line?"

Gaara was slowly agreeing with Naruto's arguments. But there is one thing he's missing. Those two girls don't know what they're getting involved in. "We still lack the understanding of how big our fight can become against the Old Satan Faction and beyond. Is it fair to drag them into it?"

"Which is why I want them to join my team. For them to get a glimpse of the stacks. We're not allowed to tell them the full story. So I want to shown them instead, and they can come to their own conclusion. If they want to stay or leave." Naruto has no right to drag them into a fight they know nothing about. He wants them to see what they can, and they can decide if they want to stick around or not. He will not force them to fight their battles.

Naruto sat back down and asked his final question. "What do ya say Gaara?"

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---

Gaara's eyes were shut. He weighed to risks and rewards, and the future implications of this action. Gaara came to a decision.

Gaara addressed both Xenovia and Kuroka. "If you two truly wish to join Naruto on this mission. Then you will follow his orders and act accordingly, understood?"

"Yes. I will perform to my utmost ability.

"Nya!" That means yes...I think?

Gaara then turned to Naruto, who looked a bit smug. "Did he predict this outcome?" It looks like that. "Naruto, they are your responsibility. You understand what I'm getting at."

Naruto playful saluted. "It's no problem Gaara, leave it all to me."

Kuroka had a cocky smirk; things are going her way.

Xenovia awkwardly saluted Gaara, making Naruto giggle a little. "No Xenovia you don't have to do that."

"You don't salute here?"

"No, not really...I mean, you can do what I did if you feel like it?"

"Like this?"

"No your other hand."

"Oh like this then...yes I see."

Yasaka coughed into her hand to break up whatever this was. "Perhaps another time, this can be sorted. Naruto, you have your mission."

"That we do." Naruto stood up and stretched his arms. He's raring to go. "Alright team, let's gear up."

Underworld here we come.

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---

The team was ready to move out. Yasaka and Raphtalia were talking with Xenovia and Kuroka. They were bringing them up to speed about the mission details. Neither were deterred, both intended to see it through.

Naruto, Hinata and Gaara also had their own conversation. Gaara handed Naruto the scroll that Kokabiel is sealed in. The Interrogation Core got Kokabiel's memories on record, and removed anything he might have seen related to the Shinobi.

Just in case Azazel doesn't side with them.

"Contact us after your talk with Azazel. Depending on what he tells us, will dictate our next move."

"I'm hoping he knows where the enemy lives. Be nice to hit them for a change."

Gaara nodded in agreement. If they're going to protect the Shinobi world, then they need to go on the offensive. Gaara then left to inform the other Kage, leaving Hinata and Naruto alone.

"Kuroka has really bounced back." Hinata could see new life in Kuroka. The depressed Neko is absent today.

"We prove Kuroka is all good, and we can get her what she needs."

"It's still rather shocking Xenovia also ended up joining us?"

"Tell me about it...I guess she wants to found out what to do with her life. We're her first choice." Wonder where she would've gone if they turned her down? Naruto then looked to the other member of the team. "And Raphtalia...she's...?" Naruto trailed off.

"Naruto-Kun? You didn't finish."

Naruto rubbed the back of his head. "Well, I ah...Ummm, do you think Raphtalia's acting strange?"

Hinata had a confused expression.

"She's so much better now; it's what we hoped for. But do you think she acts differently...like whenever I show up?" Naruto really needed another opinion.

Hinata did notice some things going on. Raphtalia's tail waged more whenever Naruto entered the room. She seemed more excited around him...Hinata thinks she even saw Raphtalia blush a couple of times.

Something is going on.

"Naruto-Kun. You need to keep your mind on the mission at hand, and what you're going to say to Azazel." A lot rides on that, Naruto can't be distracted. "I'll worry about Raphtalia and speak to her later. So you don't have to worry."

Naruto was going to say something, but he ended up nodding in agreement. He needs to focus on how he's going to handle Azazel. Besides, maybe this is one of those girl things that just goes over his head.

Naruto thanked Hinata, and the two joined up with the rest of the team. Before leaving, Yasaka gave Naruto something to prove he's a diplomatic envoy. It's a symbol of Urakyoto and Lady Yasaka's house. It's a seal, with a miniature statue of a golden nine-tailed fox.

Looked nothing like Kurama, this one looked friendly.

"Good. I'm supposed to be terrifying."

Naruto pocketed the seal. They're ready to go.

Naruto addressed his team. "All right, let's get going then." He then singled out the Neko. "Kuroka, take us away."

Kuroka held up her hand, and cats her spell. In a bright light, the team disappeared from sight.

Off they go Yasaka thought. Hopefully this time they won't have to steal a train to get out.

Still...Kuroka perplexed Yasaka. She's come around so suddenly. None of her words reached her, so what's happened? "She was cosying up to Naruto." Does he have something to do with it? If that's true, then she owns him thanks for helping her when she could not.

She'll trust Kuroka's safety to him and focus on what she needs to do. Because with them gone Yasaka can get back to her role, and it began with reading the folder Gaara gave to her.

Taking it out and opening it delicately, Yasaka started reading the document. The more she read, the more invested she got. The more invested she got, the more astonish she became.

The opening paragraph...talked about the removal of an Evil Piece.

And the reverse of...

"They've actually done it?"

The Shinobi have found a way to undo the Peerage system?

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---

Naruto opened his eyes, to find himself in a new location. A barren wasteland; the sky was purple. "Yep...it's the Underworld all right." There better not be anymore Thresher Maws.

Naruto's team was right by his side. It's time for them to get going.

"Kuroka you're the guide, which way to Fallen Angel turf?"

Kuroka pointed east. "That way." In the distance, they could see a city, bright lights and all. "I brought us right to the edge of Fallen Angel territory. Follow the leader now nya." Kuroka got moving with a sway on her hips.

"Hey, I'm the leader here?" Naruto complained.

The rest of the team jokingly laughed at Naruto's reaction, and soon enough they all got moving.

Time to meet Azazel face to face.

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---

"They should be on their way now." Azazel was lying down on his couch. He's getting some last-minute rest before his guests arrive. While he wanted Yasaka to come herself...at least the human who's rocking the boat is coming.

"This Naruto better not be a bore like Vali."

Suddenly, a Fallen Angel knocked on the door and entered, disturbing Azazel's nap.

"Oh come on, can't a guy get forty winks." That's not asking for much. Do other leaders have to put up with interruptions as much as he does?

"Sorry to disturb you but you've got a message."

Azazel breathed a tired sigh. "Who's it this time?"

"Serafall Leviathan."

Azazel eye's shot open. She's contacting him...the same day Yasaka's guests are coming?

Azazel smirked. "Ain't that something."

Fallen Angels have never been so popular.

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---

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Chapter 17: The First Steps. Complete

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Whether you agree with the Church's decision or not, Naruto follows the teaching of those who abandon their friends and comrades are worse than scum. So it's obvious where Naruto would stand on Xenovia's banishment.

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Next: Chapter 18: Diplomacy with Fallen Angels

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