Chapter 4
Namikaze Household
With her husband called for the meeting regarding the criminals of Melromarc. Yasaka stayed behind to rest and watch over her children. With Kushina who apparently doesn't want to take her eyes off of her grandchildren. Along with a sight she the fox woman did not want to see.
And it wasn't Titanius who she found deactivated on the floor.
"Is that a robot?" Kushina asked, pointing at Titanius.
Yasaka sighed, "That's Titanius Anglesworth, Momon wanted to revolutionize working conditions. By that I mean, saving money by creation mechanical men to do construction work. Since they have no need for money." she explained.
"And?" Kushina asked, barely understanding half of the explanation.
"They became obsolete, their one function was to bend metal. That and they require alcohol to function." Yasaka answered.
"Oh good, a drunk robot." Kushina said sarcastically.
"Actually they act drunk when they lack any alcohol." Yasaka said correcting her mother-in-law.
Kunou proceeded to tamper with Titanius, "He's also a friend of tou-san. Wake up Oji!" she said messing with his parts.
When suddenly, Titanius sat up, "Woah! Did someone hit an off switch?" he asked.
"Oji!" Kunou called out.
"Huh? Kunou? Wow, that crash was real bad." Titanius said as he looked around in confusion. Then he heard Kairi and Ichigo crying, "And who's whining? Also, where are my companions? I came for the ale and the money for the cyclops." he said as he walked around.
Yasaka sighed, "I'll worry about the crazy machine later." she said as she picked up Ichigo from the baby pen. "Now now, don't cry Ichigo. I know you this place is strange but home is where the heart and family is." she said patting the infant's back.
Kunou ran up to the pen to look at Kairi, "Do you want me to play with you imouto?" she asked the infant girl.
"Ah!" Kairi whined.
Kunou smiled as Kushina picked up Kairi, "Let me help Kunou-chan. Babies are sensitive so be careful. Especially now that you are a big sister now." she said.
Kunou nodded, "I will oba-sama!" she said as she patted Kairi's back.
"That reminds me, how old are you?" Kushina asked.
"Ten, almost eleven." Kunou answered.
"You are such a big girl." Kushina said adoring the girl.
"Why do you ask Kushina-san?" Yasaka asked.
"I haven't known I had a granddaughter because of that time thing Naruto-kun mentioned. So now I know that I owe Kunou a few birthday presents." Kushina answered as Kunou's tails wagged.
"Please don't spoil her." Yasaka said as Kunou frowned.
"I won't, Kunou-chan is a sweet and intelligent girl." Kushina said doting on her granddaughter.
Yasaka sighed, "I suppose maybe my daughter can have a little bit more fun." she said as Ichigo looked around.
"Ah!" Ichigo said excitedly.
At the meeting
The meeting progressed, with an explanation on the issue regarding Melromarc's current state. It mattered as it explained the sudden teleportations and researchers attempting to find a cause. Followed by the queen apologizing for Malty's stupidity. Along with the hero's that were technically not meant to be summoned by her husband.
"So wait, let me get this straight. You summoned a random group of individuals. With no special abilities whatsoever and just teach them in hopes that they save the world? Nothing special other than handling ancient weapons?" Shikaku asked.
"Trust me, I thought my mother lost her mind when she explained this. Although she was in the correct state of mind compared to my husband." Mirellia explained.
"And these individuals were not meant to be summoned you?" Shikaku asked.
"I'm afraid not, while my kingdom has the resources and power. They were meant to be dispersed onto the other kingdoms to help them with the upcoming waves." Mirellia further explained.
"And what do we do about these idiots? Also, can't you just banish the blond idiot and get a new one?" Tsume asked as Motoyasu tried to break free of his restraints.
Mirellia sighed, "Unfortunately, that cannot be done. Otherwise I would have found more competent heroes." she said looking at Motoyasu who collapsed onto the floor.
"It's a great misfortune that he wasn't given the Hero's Blessing." Naruto spoke up.
"What is that? More hocus pocus magic?" Inoichi asked.
"It's a legendary blessing passed down by gods. The downside is it turns the assigned hero docile and emotionless. So they won't be influenced by corruption or mental attacks." Naruto explained.
Suddenly Motoyasu removed his own gag, "Your majesty! These people are insane! They were torturing the princess with subpar food!" he yelled.
Minato looked at the ANBU, "We gave her warm soup and fresh water. This is not a hotel." the ANBU explained.
Mirellia sighed, "I will deal with you later. For now, I think I need to speak with my daughter and remind her why she no longer is in line for the throne." she said as someone adjusted the dolly Malty was tied to.
'Something tells me this is going to be troublesome. A frying pan won't be enough of a punishment.' Shikaku thought as he could see the cold look in Mirellia's eyes.
Melty adjusted herself as well as so the image of her mother could get a better look at her sister. With Malty looking nervous while looking around. As if she was trying to find some excuse for her mother to believe. Which would not work as Mirellia was well aware of her first daughter being a pathological liar. One that only Mirellia's husband, King Aultcray, would believe as he spoiled the girl too much.
"Malty S. Melromarc, why is it that when your actions do surprise me, that you reach levels of insanity I cannot comprehend? What exactly was your plan when you had arrived with an armed force?" Mirellia asked, daring the girl to come up with an absurd story.
When the gag around Malty's mouth was removed. Malty started to cough a bit as it felt too tight. Before looking depressed and giving a dramatic performance she somehow believed would work.
"It's not my fault mama! I didn't even make it to this dirty village yet! I was attacked!" Malty stated.
A part of that was true, only because the automatons got to her first.
Mirellia took a deep breath as it didn't sound like a complete lie, "Very well, then what was your plan when you arrived?" She asked.
"Obviously, ask for shelter and maintain good relations." Malty said as her nervous face kicked in.
There it was, here come the lies.
"I wasn't even allowed 100 feet near the gates when they dragged us in. Even poor Itsuki-sama was dragged in like a hardened criminal!" Malty said now sounding peeved.
"Then why is it that I received a message stating that the Bow Hero was attacking a neighboring village? As well as interfering with conflicts that did not concern him?" Mirellia asked, as Frollo let her know about the conflict in Kiri.
"I… I…"
"Do you know what I see Malty? I see my own daughter embarrassing herself and her homeland." Mirellia said slowly raising her voice. "I had such big hopes for you Malty. I really did and yet all I have witnessed is baboonery. With your father allowing you to remain unchecked and letting you roam around as you wish." She said.
"But mama! I'm a good girl!" Malty exclaimed.
'What the hell!?' most of the clan heads thought as they sweat dropped.
They did not expect Malty to react like a small child. Then again, they were not aware of how immature Malty really is. Compared to Melty who felt really awkward hearing this from her older sister. While she herself is only 10 years old.
"Malty, you are an adult! Not a child! Your father and I have babied you enough and it is time you become an adult and humble yourself!" Mirellia said a step away from shouting. Making Malty recoil in fear, "As I stated earlier, you are no longer in line to succeed the throne and therefore lose your privileges as princess of Melromarc and your father will lose his privileges as King consort!" she yells as she slams her hand against her throne.
A couple of council members winced from the proclamation. Mirellia did everything but disown her daughter. Only going as far as to turning her into a peasant that has to work for a living now. That is if Malty doesn't do anything to get her executed or locked up for good.
"Therefore, until proper transport is made. I will see to it that your travel is limited and that you remained confined in Konoha until further notice." Mirellia proclaimed.
"But… but the Shield Demon! Didn't papa tell you about what he did!?" Malty asked, playing the victim role again.
"I know the story you told. You are not above lying to your father and I know very well that you did not think twice about sleeping with the Spear Hero. Not too long after being "assaulted" by Naofumi-san." Mirellia said calming down a bit.
"You're going to take his side!?" Motoyasu asked.
"I have already forced a judgement spell on Naofumi-san to test him for lies. Other than a few seemingly angry remarks, the young man has not committed any crime I am aware of." Frollo spoke up.
"Hey if this is about sexual assault. Why would a girl of any kind move onto sleeping with another man? It doesn't make sense." Choza said pointing out basic logic.
Rape is a serious accusation and such actions are not taken. Yet, there are few individuals who lie about it. Creating issues and a difficult situation to determine truth from lie. Especially those with positions of power who can easily cover things up.
"Well… you people are just backwards! I kept Myne safe and happy after what Naofumi did!" Motoyasu argued.
Tsume scoffed, "He makes Jiraiya look like a gentlemen." She states, confusing Motoyasu.
For a woman like Tsume to say about Jiraiya. It would really destroy a man's pride to be called anything less than great in comparison to the super pervert.
"I think it's safe to say everyone is sick in the head sometimes. Except this is way too far." Inoichi said.
During all of this time, Hiashi just closed his eyes and listened closely. He mentally admitted that Mirellia does have some strength behind his words, but only wondered what has been limiting her from disciplining her daughter. It made the Hyuga head think about his own clan lately and how their relationships have been. It was an odd feeling considering how cold he felt.
Prompting him to speak up for the first time.
"And what is the extent of the punishment will we be allowed to administer, if you do not mind me asking?" Hiashi asked.
Mirellia moved her fan to the side of her cheek, "What is the extent, is indeed a good question." She said thinking it over.
"The former princess already had her rights stripped from her. Essentially making her a peasant with free rent." Naruto pointed out.
"I think it's best to think of a final punishment once you return young lady. For now, I will request that your movement is restricted and magic crests that do not physically harm you be placed." Mirellia said.
"No mama! Please!" Malty begged with tears in her eyes.
"Magic crests?" Minato asked.
"Think of them as a form of fuinjutsu." Naruto answered.
"Sounds reasonable enough, we only have a few masters of the art but it should be enough. Wouldn't you say Hokage-sama?" Hiashi said not doubting his leader's abilites.
"It can work for now." Minato said.
"With that said, I once again apologize on behalf of Melromarc council members. Hopefully we can meet again under better tidings. Melty, remember to behave yourself and stay close to your guards and the Shadows." Mirellia said.
"I will mother." Melty said ignoring her older sister's teary eyed scowl.
"Now then, please treat my younger daughter well. She's the mature one apparently." Mirellia said smiling at the blue haired girl.
Naruto then stood up, "It was good seeing you again your majesty." he said.
"Likewise, Emperor. Farewell for now." Mirellia said as her thought projection turned off.
Malty proceeded to thrash around, "Let me out you underdeveloped mongrels! I am the real victim here!" she yelled.
Melty sighed, "I apologize once again on my kingdom's behalf." she said.
"Don't worry about it." Naruto said shoving a cloth in Malty's mouth.
"I will see to it that a proper trial is held in neutral and acceptable ground. Seeing that the other village, Kirigakure I believe, is also hurt from this event." Frollo said excusing himself.
"And consider this meeting adjourned. ANBU, take the prisoners back." Minato said as he ignored the screaming and arguing from the hero and former princess. "I swear, I never expected this kind of insanity." he said.
"Anything can happen at this point, tou-sama." Naruto said as everyone prepared to leave.
A while later, at the mansion again
With the meeting adjourned and the criminals of Melromarc being restrained. Accommodations were being made for Frollo and the Church and Melty for Melromarc. Momon personally got to work on it seeing as she got a few hired workers to build a couple of embassies to keep both sides feeling welcomed. As well a secure to prevent any potential issues and preferably avoid conflict.
It also helped with free advertisements for the grunts to pass around. Although it seemed like Melty wanted to explore for some reason. Forcing Melty to have a guard to accompany her at all times. As she wanted to visit Kunou as well as introduce her to Filo.
"Where is this place Mel?" Filo asked.
"It's supposed to be the temporary home of my other friend. I think you will like her Filo." Melty said.
"Hey don't run so fast." Naofumi said as he was the one forced to watch over Melty
"Master Naofumi is right! We're technically in an unknown territory!" Raphtalia said following right behind them.
"Also, isn't this place home of some noble or something?" Naofumi asked as he saw the mansion. "Looks like the cultures are mixed. It kind of looks like feudal Japan but a bit bigger." he says looking impressed.
By the time, they arrive at the mansion's grounds. They are stopped by Kunai who steps out of the shadows with a literal kunai in hand.
"Please identify yourselves before coming closer." Kunai said warning them.
Naofumi sighed as he pulled out a document Melty gave him, "I'm Naofumi Iwatani, the Shield Hero of Melromarc and this is my companion, Raphtalia." he said showing the document.
The golem nodded, "Very well, your party may pass." she said verifying the document.
"Thanks." Naofumi said lacking much sincerity.
"You should try to be more nice Master Naofumi. They probably aren't that hostile." Raphtalia said.
"You never know what can happen Raphtalia. Especially with wherever Glass sent us." Naofumi said remembering his arrival.
It was fairly strange to say the least. One moment, Naofumi is fighting a powerful woman in a kimono named Glass. Then she starts to retreat after his Rage Shield starts to harm her. When the Wave should have ended, it only sucked him in along with the rest of the heroes and several knights who were supporting the fight.
"Tch, who knew those idiots would make things worse. It leaves me wondering what happened to Ren." Naofumi said thinking about the missing hero.
"He is the most quiet one, if not as reckless." Raphtalia comments.
When the group arrived, they found Kunou in the yard with her baby siblings. Melty quickly ran towards the kitsune girl as Filo followed her. Kunou's ears perked up as she heard someone approaching. When she looked, she smiled and ran up to her human friend to embrace her.
"Melty!" Kunou yelled out.
"Kunou!" Melty yelled back.
When the two hugged each other. They quickly caught up with recent events. Before Melty introduced Filo and the rest of her party.
"And this is Filo, she's a Filolial." Melty said confusing her.
"Filolial? But she looks human." Kunou pointed out.
Suddenly Filo transformed, "I'm the real deal." she said as she moved around.
Kunou looked at her with awe, "Where did you find her?" she asked.
"Naofumi hatched her from an egg." Melty said pointing at the Shield Hero.
Naofumi gave a lazy wave while Raphtalia gave a more jovial wave to show kindness to the child. As they showed they greeted the girl. Yasaka stood up and made her way over the group. Where she kindly greeted Melty as the two had met before.
"Hello princess, can I assume meeting Kunou-chan was your first objective after business?" Yasaka asked making Melty blush from embarassment.
"I admit that I was excited to hear about her arrival. Despite current conditions your majesty." Melty said while doing a curtsy.
Yasaka giggled, "Please, no formalities for now Princess. I'm not even in formal wear right now." she said as her kimono is not suited for public events.
That and it did attract the attention of local perverts and envious women. Making Yasaka look for a miko outfit cover up. As it was her usual attire for public ceremonies and other work in accordance to her duties as empress.
"By the way, who are your companions?" Yasaka asked.
"This is the Shield Hero's party and the hero himself!" Melty said introducing everyone.
Yasaka smiled, "I see, you must be the famed Shield Hero… for unfortunate reasons I recently heard." she said with a bow.
Raphtalia quickly bowed back, "Master Naofumi!" she said seeing him not bow his head.
Naofumi tipped his head, "Nice to meet you." he said ignoring Raphtalia's concerned face.
"Naofumi be nice! She's an empress!" Melty said.
Yasaka giggled, "Relax Melty, with everything he's been through. I can see that some things take time. He still has more manners than the other heroes from the sound of things." she said.
"By the way, who's babies are these?" Melty asked as she pointed at Kairi and Ichigo who were lying in the baby pen.
Yasaka giggled again, "They are mine of course. They were born yesterday." she said surprising Melty. Yasaka slowly reached for her stomach revealing that her bump was reduced from childbirth, "Is it that much of a surprise?" she asked.
Melty shook her head, "No, I mean… I never expected to see them this early." she answered.
Filo transformed back into a human and walked up to the pen, "Master look! Cute babies!" she said pointing at their ears.
"I guess that's interesting." Naofumi said as he looked at the kitsune infants.
"Would you like to hold one little ones?" Yasaka asked.
"I don't know…"
"Okay!" Filo interrupts.
"Babies are fragile Filo. I don't want you dropping one." Naofumi said as he crosses his arms.
"I won't master. I promise." Filo said as Yasaka gently placed Kairi in her arms.
"Now be gentle but be careful not to squeeze her." Yasaka said as Filo's face lit up with delight.
The peaceful sight ended once they heard screaming. Prompting both infants to get upset until Yasaka began to coo them. Before anyone asked about what was going on. Mito and Arashi could be seen wearing insect costumes while running from the Flaming Salamander. The twins screamed in terror as the beast avidly chased them around the land.
"Should we do something about that?" Naofumi asked.
"Do not mind them, this is how my husband trains my in-laws." Yasaka said confusing them.
With Mito and Arashi
"Is he trying to kill us!?" the twins asked.
"Run faster!" Naruto screamed as he ran by them in fox form.
"I don't like this!" Mito yelled.
"You're a soldier now! Stop crying!" Naruto commands as he outruns them.
"Why did he make us wear bug costumes?" Arashi asked.
"I think it's because salamanders like to eat bugs!" Mito yelled as Salamander flew over them.
As the children continued to run. Salamander shot a large ball of fire in front of them. Creating a giant to block their path. When they changed directions, Salamander created more walls as to prevent their escape. Trapping them in a single box as the beast slowly cralwed towards them.
"What do we do!" the twins yelled.
"You both pride yourselves as practical jokesters but cannot handle a small box?" Naruto asked from outside.
The twins whimpered before looking at each other. Arashi decided to run around and distract the salamander while Mito tried to dig up the ground using a special technique. A minute later, the two started crawling through a tunnel that was too tight for the salamander to follow them. Prompting it to fly over the ground in an attempt to hit them before they came out.
When suddenly a large whole in the ground exploded, "Run Mito!" Arashi yelled as they came out of the ground.
With the whole where they came out exploding. However, it wasn't the only hole in the ground. As more kept coming out with doppelgangers of the twins coming out from them. The salamander let out a roar of confusion before randomly shooting at the various pairs. Until the Salamander was hit with a giant burst of water.
"I got him!" Mito yelled after using a water jutsu on the salamander.
"Don't start getting confident yet!" Arashi yelled as the salamander unleashed a sea of flames. "Kaa-chan is going to kill us when she sees how destroyed the lawn is." he said feeling fearful that two monstrous individuals will want to kill them.
"Keep going! You need the cardio!" Naruto yelled as he watched them over a small hill.
With Kakashi, a few minutes later
As sensei of Team 7, Kakashi still had a duty to teach. Prompting him to drag his students with him to the Namikaze household as went to look for his own sensei's children. When he arrived, he found Salamander having scorched the land with mito and Arashi still trying to stop it with water techniques and the few wind that they knew. Yet it didn't really harm the spirit one bit.
"Kakashi sensei! Save us!" the twins yelled as they were being chased around.
"Uh." Kakashi was very confused as the Salamander chased them around the yard some more.
"Kakashi sensei, what is that?" Sakura asked.
"It's the lizard that kyuubi family were riding on." Sasuke pointed out.
"Yeah… I don't know what to do here." Kakashi said as he looked beyond confused.
"Water Style: Water Gunshot!"
"Water Style: Water Bullet!"
The two hits were then blocked by a powerful breath of fire. Creating steam and allowing the twins to keep running as to avoid it's gaze. Only to find the salamander swooping down and lifting Arashi in the air with it's talons.
"Arashi!" Mito screamed as she chased after the Salamander.
Who proceeded to drop Arashi in a nearby body of water. Mito attempted to use yet another water jutsu only to be lifted up and dropped into the water as well. Kakashi was about to raise his headband to use his Sharingan implant when Naruto's presnece stopped him.
"Don't. The two children need to train and babying them will not help." Naruto said.
"What are you planning?" Kakashi asked.
"A strong training session, teamwork has already been done enough. You need to build yourself before you connect with others." Naruto answered as he did not like Kakashi's method of training.
"And it's comradery that builds you the most." Kakashi tried to argue.
"What good is comradery if you only pretend to like and respect those around you? Forcing companionship is not the way, sometimes you must overcome your flaws before you can criticize others." Naruto explained before hearing Salamander roar in the distance. "I know of your methods as my siblings told me. They are ineffective, strength alone is not always enough but no strength at all is much worse." he adds.
Kakashi interjected, "But teamwork, is a good foundation…"
"Of which there is no strength in the foundation if the material keeping it together is not sturdy." Naruto interrupts, making Kakashi ponder on his own lesson.
Was it really wrong to force friendship? Sure the genin managed to work together in Wave when their lives were at stake. Yet, it was reckless as they had no idea what to do and lacked the power to overcome their foes. Even worse, Kakashi slipped up a few times and was only saved because of the sudden invocation of Naruto.
"Then what do you suggest Naruto-san?" Kakashi asked the emperor.
Naruto proceeded to lift up Sasuke and Sakura, "Make them all grow strong then they will realize their weaknesses and grow from them." he said before tossing them aside.
"Is that really necessary!?" Kakashi asked.
"Yes." Naruto answered as the Salamander turned their attention to Sasuke and Sakura.
"Save me Sasuke-kun!" Sakura yelled.
"Fire Style: Phoenix Flower Jutsu!" Sasuke yelled but the jutsu had no effect.
"It's fire! Plan out your moves instead of using what is most comfortable!" Naruto shouts as the two start running.
This training session is going to be a literal trial by fire.
Hokage Office, Jounin Lounge
With the kids being trained. Kakashi spent a lot of time on his reflecting… on his favorite book. He did think about what Naruto mentioned. It wasn't anything harsh but just blunt criticism. In other words, just a harsh way of explaining that Kakashi has the right idea but executed it poorly. That aside, he realized he was going to be late for the meeting that Minato was hosting. So he left way after rereading his favorite book for the hundredth time.
Prompting him to arrive late with Minato thinking of how to motivate his lazy student. Still Kakashi should be grateful that Kushina was never picked as Hokage since that would have ended poorly for the scarecrow.
"Now that Kakashi has finally graced us with his presence." Minato said as Kakashi lazily waved at his comrades. "We may now begin the first order of business. Starting with the Chunin exams, who wishes to nominate their team?" he asked.
Might Guy decided to make his presence known. Specifically, by being the loudest and most energetic of the group.
"I nominate my Team Hokage-sama! Their flames of youth will dominate the competition!" Guy said making everyone groan.
His energy was great and positive as his team was mostly positive. Despite their personalities, they were quite the capable group that needed more field experience. They were only genin for a year, but Guy decided to wait a whole year for them seeing as thought that his team needed to grow as individuals and teammates before signing up for an exam that's practically considered a death match.
"I see… good to know." Minato said marking something on a book.
From there, Minato was only slightly surprised to see the jounin of this year's graduating class. Then again, he knew some of them were fairly prideful. Although he wanted to voice his doubts but knew they would all come up with some excuse. Leaving Minato to have faith in his own soldiers in hopes that jounin have trained their genin enough to survive the exams.
Iruka voiced his opinions, but it ended quickly. With Kakashi pointing out that Iruka is no longer their teacher.
"They're our soldiers now." Kakashi said.
"Just let it go Iruka." Minato said.
"But Hokage-sama…" Iruka tried to say.
"Kakashi has a point. We cannot baby the next generation of our shinobi. Some of these genin, will sacrifice their childhood so the next generation to move forward." Minato said silencing the chunin.
"Very well." Iruka said with a sigh, having to accept the decision.
"With that in mind, unless anyone else has anything to say. This meeting is adjourned." Minato said as he dismissed the jounin.
Only a moment later, did he notice something was off. Specifically, he could tell that someone was right outside of his window. Just hanging out there patiently. Likely enough time to just meditate or understand their place in the universe.
"You can come in now sensei." Minato said a white haired man dressed like a kabuki actor jumped in.
"Aw come on Minato, I just wanted to surprise you." Jiraiya said smiling sheepishly.
"That doesn't work on me anymore." Minato said not looking away from his work.
"You and the kids used to be excited by this gallant's amazing talent." Jiraiya adds.
"I was 12 and the kids are not small anymore." Minato said as Jiraiya laughed it off.
"Oh well, anyways I have some news. Not all of it is good." Jiraiya said garnering the attention of his student. "About Orochimaru, he's established a base in the Land of Rice. It's considered to be a minor hidden village like Hoshi and Yuki." he explains.
"Do you think he's building up a force sensei?" Minato asked.
"I don't think. I know, for a genius that snake doesn't know how to let go of petty grudges." Jiraiya answers.
Minato started to grimace, "Any idea on what he might be planning? This isn't exactly something we should ignore." he asked.
Jiraiya nods, "Yeah, before I get to that. There's been some sort of phenomenon going on. Like strange people just appearing out of nowhere and news of them getting involved in Kiri." he explains.
"I noticed, a lot of them showed up here in Konoha. Some tried to stir up trouble." Minato said surprising Jiraiya.
"Really? You can tell me later, for now. I think some of these people are working with Orochimaru. Like he's developed an alliance with new allies and it doesn't sound good with the abilities I've heard about." Jiraiya explained.
"Any details on these "allies" of Orochimaru?" Minato asked.
Jiraiya sighed in disappointment, "No, not really. Except that it sounds like these sudden appearances are triggered by something similar to Time Space Ninjutsu." he answered. "But what about the troublemakers you found? Do you think they correlate with my news?" he asked.
Minato started to scratch the back of his head, "I'm not entirely sure, but maybe I should explain it if we get back to my home. There's something you won't believe your eyes if you see it." he said.
Jiraiya chuckled, "Minato, it's me. What exactly is going to shock me?" he asked.
"Something your brain can't handle sensei and it's not naked women for your research." Minato said making Jiraiya stifle another laugh.
At home, end of the day
Jiraiya looked wide eyed, "I guess you were right Minato." he said.
As he saw a horse sized kyuubi in the form of Naruto just lying beside his infants who sat near him. With Naruto using his tails to keep them safe and secure. While Yasaka was cooing the infants who giggled.
"How did this happen?" Jiraiya asked.
As Minato explained to some extent. When Naruto disappeared during the sealing. The chakra turned him into a yokai, a hybrid of a fox and human that can transform at will. One with great status to the point he was literal royalty with only two others of equal status. Well three, seeing as Licht is still reigning things in and being helped with his territories that were being given to him, but that's another complicated thing. As there's still other things that were a bit too complicated to explain.
"At least the family looks cute." Jiraiya said being open minded.
Just as Kunou ran up to her family cuddle up with her siblings. With Naruto extending his tails to cover the chibi kitsune.
"Should I approach them? I mean, I'm a stranger and it's not exactly my fault. Also, I don't like the look the hidden guards are giving me." Jiraiya said.
"You sense them?" Minato asked.
"I didn't perfect my senjutsu, but I can channel enough to feel the four or five people ready to rip off my head." Jiraiya whispered.
"Oh yeah, I forgot several of those guys are around. They're actually trained to be better than ANBU." Minato adds before leading Jiraiya home.
Where he found one of Naruto's guards, Felix, healing Mito and Arashi. The cat boy gave them a wink as he finished up healing the twins.
"Good as new!" Felix said.
"I don't wanna train anymore." Arashi whined.
"Too bad, you had it easy. Momon is harder on her private military contractors." Felix said not caring as his own training was as difficult.
"You were chased by a Salamander?" Mito asked.
"Nope, I did run away from a giant lawnmower shot lasers that can tear up the earth. It was a weird day for the countryside." Felix explained, having remembered one mission.
"This is torture." Mito whined.
Felix sighed, "I can fix their singes but I can't fix their attitude." he told Minato as he patted his shoulder and left.
Jiraiya sweat dropped at the sight of the kids, "I see someone copied my Water on the Frog Face training." he said noticing that both children were dressed up like insects.
"I don't think your cosplay had anything to do with being chased around by a salamander. Which reminds me, I think their teammates were around here so…"
"Sasuke and Sakura were already dragged home." Arashi croaked.
Minato sighed, "Let's finish this inside. Kushina can pick up the kids." he said stepping over them.
"Hey brats." Jiraiya greeted.
"Ero-sennin." the kids muttered.
A few minutes after their father and godfather left. Naruto arrived and lifted up both twins in his arms.
"No more." Mito whined.
"You earned your break. Calm down." Naruto said as he took them inside.
Later that night
After a good bath and a change of clothes. Mito and Arashi crashed into bed feeling a lot of strain on their body from dealing with Salamander. Both just wishing to skip tomorrow to a void another training session. As they slept in their respective rooms, Kunou proceeded to sneak into Mito's room to keep her up for another second.
"Oba, oba, oba." Kunou said shaking Mito.
"What Kunou?" Mito asked.
Kunou held out a necklace, "Tou-sama said you earned this." she said.
"What is it?" Mito asks as she accepts the necklace.
"Something Tou-sama keeps around. He gave me one too, see?" Kunou asked as she pulled her own out.
"So what is it for? Not that I'm ungrateful I mean." Mito said.
"You did something to earn tou-sama's respect and achieved something big." Kunou said surprising her aunt. "He said you whined and cried a lot but never gave up. So that means you're special to him in more than blood." she said making Mito smile.
Mito smiled as she hugged Kunou, "You're so precious Kunou. I guess nii-san just doesn't know how communicate anymore." she jokes.
"He does, work just takes up most of his mind." Kunou said letting go. "Now I have to go tell Arashi Oji the same. Bye!" she said before running off.
Mito smiled at the necklace before putting it on. Briefly grasping it tightly before closing her eyes and going to sleep. Only to wake up when she head Kunou trying to wake up Arashi in the next room.
"Oji wake up! Oji! Oji! Up!" Kunou said repeatedly tapping him.
Mito giggled, "I have a cute niece." she muttered knowing Arashi would get annoyed.
The next morning
Titanius woke up the next morning, because machines apparently need rest. To find the genin of this generation standing before him as he sat on his horse. Awaiting Naruto as the jounin had dropped off their students.
"Greetings tiny child soldiers! I am Titanius Anglesmith, close friend of the Crimson Emperor himself!" Titanius announced. "Here you stand as mere children. Proud, optimistic, and possibly arrogant. I am here to announce… that you need to cut that crap out! The world is scary and horrible things are going to happen to you and I'm going to make sure it happens!" he yells.
This actually terrified most of the genin like Ino and Hinata along with Shino who felt threatened. Others like Sasuke and Shikamaru just sighed at the random threats. Everyone else was just unsure and wondered what was going to happen.
"First step of training, I'm going to kill you all because I hate humans! Kill all humans!" Titanius shouts as he draws his sword and his horse neighs.
Some of the genin already started to run and hide. With a few remaining and preparing for battle. Only for Titanius to laugh and point at the cowardly part of the group.
"Good, some of you are still here. You guys are alright, everyone else fails! Don't give into petty threats! Unless they're petty promises." Titanius said making the genin return. "Then you can run. Otherwise, grow some… whatever you humans have inside of you." he said expecting them to become courageous.
Sasuke scoffed, "I knew it was all talk." he said.
"Tell that to Choji, he dropped his chips." Shikamaru said at the fallen chip bag.
"That was not funny!" Ino screamed.
"It was but do you know what's not funny?" Titanius asked.
"What?" Ino asked only to avoid a sword swipe.
"Now I'm actually going to chase you around! Kill all humans!" Titanius yelled as he chased everyone around the yard.
"He's psychotic!" Ino yelled as she and everyone else avoided sword strikes.
Meanwhile Leegola and Frydo just sat back and watched, "Should we do something?" the centaur asked.
Frydo shrugged, "They signed a waver. It's going to be fine." he said ignoring the danger.
"They signed a waver?" Leegola asked.
"Yeah, they're adults or something in the eyes of this village once they pass the academy. You know, child soldiers and stuff." Frydo said concerning Leegola.
"That is outrageous and I cannot stand by it. So I'll just sit." Leegola responded as she let her legs rest.
"I wonder if they are going to fight back or something." Frydo said as Titanius continued to chase the genin around.
Eventually Naruto did arrive and put a stop to it. Making Titanius get off his horse and sheath his sword. Almost looking as if he was exhausted from swinging his sword around.
"Hey pal, I got them warmed up for you. I'm gonna go get a beer, okay? Bye!" Titanius said as he went inside Naruto's parent's home.
Naruto sighed, "I swear, he's just here for the free beer." He said as he approached the group who looked awakened. "I'm glad to see everyone showed up and look ready to work." he said hearing only groans.
He looked around and saw most of them were ready to pass out. Titanius likely did not put too much effort into chasing them despite his crazy persona. So it was fair to say, that many of them lacked stamina.
"Let us begin with familiarization. Does anyone use weapons? Mayonnaise does not count." Naruto asked.
"I use a spear my lord!" everyone turned around to find Gabiru standing behind them.
"What the heck is that!?" Kiba asked with a shocked face.
"I am the great Gabiru!" Gabiru answered proudly.
"Gabiru, I am not speaking to you right now. I need to train the children." Naruto said as Gabiru dismissed himself. "Back to my question. Do we have any armed individuals? Throwing weapons do not count either." he said receiving silence. "What about tools? Throwing weapons do count here." he asked.
"We all learn to throw kunai and shuriken." Shikamaru said raising his hand lazily.
"What else? Did anyone go beyond that?" Naruto asked, once again receiving silence. Naruto sighed, "Maybe I am going the wrong way with this. Does anyone have a speciality? Perhaps controlling the elements? Close combat skills maybe? Something unique?" he asked, waiting for any answer.
Sakura raised her hand, "I have excellent chakra control." She said.
"I can sense very little from you. What do you do with that little?" Naruto asked making Sakura blush in embarrassment. "Answer again when you reveal a unique skill." he said making the girl think.
"My clan specialize in taijutsu." Hinata spoke up. "My dojutsu lets me disable chakra networks and… and…"
"Yes? Speak up." Naruto said.
"And… I… I can see far distance in… 360 d-degree angles." Hinata said practicing her confidence.
"That's indeed unique. Now what about everyone else?" Naruto asked as everyone explained their abilities.
Naruto nodded as he made mental notes of everyone's abilities. Unfortunately, most of them seem to revolve around physical attacks. Sure most of them had unique abilities thanks to their Kekkai Genkai or bloodlines that some had. Except it wasn't enough of a defense and he sincerely doubts most of them have the physique to make it matter. Not in the sense of body shaming, but rather that they all may more may not have one strength and have weaknesses elsewhere.
"Okay, the social call is almost over. Now then, does anyone have any plans for what they want to develop in?" Naruto asked as they looked at each other. "Speak up now, what is it that you all want to learn, but never had the chance to try?" he asked.
Sakura raised her hand, "I want to increase my reserves!" she said.
"And then what are you going to do with those reserves? That sounds good, but I need more." Naruto said.
"Uh…" Sakura did not have anything to think of.
Then Sasuke spoke up with his frustrations, "This is a waste of time. I need to get stronger." he said.
Naruto then approached Sasuke and looked down at the boy, "And you're reasoning boy?" he asked.
"What?" Sasuke asked as he looked up.
"What is your reasoning to get strong?" Naruto asked.
"I need to kill a certain someone. Someone who I can only beat with hate." Sasuke answered.
"And pray tell boy, who told you this." Naruto said intimidating Sasuke.
Sasuke winced as he could feel Naruto's aura slowly releasing, "My brother Itachi." he said shocking the genin. "He wiped out my family. Without remorse, to test himself he said. Saying that I lack hate and would…"
"And you're listening to him like a naive fool?" Naruto asked. This surprised Sasuke, "The truth is boy, you are setting yourself up for failure the moment you listened to a killer." he said.
Sasuke was taken aback by this. As some of the more logical genin started to think this over as well. Why would a deranged psychopath supplement tools to someone to kill him later? Itachi doesn't sound like the type who wants an honorable battle with the stories told about him.
"But Itachi said…"
"A kinslayer is not someone you can trust. If he asked you to mutilate yourself with promise that it would kill him, would you do it?" Naruto asked.
"No…"
"Then why are you listening to him? You're still in square one and haven't learned anything." Naruto said in a calm voice, but Sasuke felt like he was being drilled by a veteran jounin.
In the distance, Momon was watching from a crystal ball. Where she laughed at the lecture as she could also hear what should be the words of a drill sergeant.
"That's right my grandson, hurt him with words then break him with your fists!" Momon cheered.
"I never thought of it that way." Sasuke said.
"Because you are not thinking! Now think! Why do you want to get strong!" Naruto said sounding more like a drill sergeant.
"Um… I…"
"Too slow! Next step, the real training begins now!" Naruto said as a large wolf appeared beside him. "This here is Ranga, a mighty dire-wolf and a loyal friend." He said patting the two horned wolf back.
"AROOO!" Akamaru howled as he submitted to the superior canine.
"Crap, that thing makes Kuromaru look like a newborn puppy!" Kiba exclaimed.
"Now then, Ranga here is also very quick and agile. He's not as ungraceful like a walking refrigerator." Naruto said as he rubbed the canine's head. "Your training for the day is a more unique endurance challenge. This time, you have to follow Ranga in an extended loop. You lose if you return without him or if you fall behind." he explains as the dire wolf barks and moves into position.
"More running?" Ino complained.
"You be quiet." Naruto said shutting her up. "You all have all these skills and have no idea what to do with them. You're all a skeleton crew at best. One from the discount isle." he said as Frydo laughed in the background.
"Discount isle… get it? Because they're cheap? No?" Frydo asked Leegola who sighed.
"And if we fail?" Shino asked daringly.
"Leegola over there fills you with arrows and motivates you to run faster." Naruto said pointing at Leegola who prepared her bow.
"An arrow? That's it?" Kiba asked.
*THUD*
Kiba suddenly found his hood being pinned to a tree, "Okay I get it! We'll run!" he yelled.
"Good, Ranga whenever you are ready." Naruto said.
"Do not fall behind me humans!" Ranga yelled as he ran at full speed.
"That thing can talk!?" Sakura asked.
"My mom's ninken can talk too." Kiba said.
"So can the ero sennin's toads." Arashi adds as everyone chases Ranga.
Naruto nods as they try their best to keep up, "Now then, what to do." he said to himself.
When Titanius came back, "Hey I found a leftover keg. It's half empty but… ARGH!" He yells as he collapses when a cylinder hits him in the head.
"What is this?" Naruto asked as he picked up the metal cylinder.
"It's garbage! Now give me a sphere or a polygon so I can throw it back at the jerk!" Titanius said before looking up to see a random airship moving by.
"It's likely mail from the military." Naruto said.
"Those airships are still around?" Titanius asked.
Naruto ignored him and looked at the cylinder, "From Licht, I wonder if it's important." he said as he opened the cylinder.
When suddenly, a green animal jumped out and landed on Titanius. Where it proceeded to scratch his head in an attempt to find a good spot to hang on. Only to knock over the automaton and jump down. Where it climbed up to Naruto's shoulder and smiled.
"Ponta." the creature said.
"A Ventu Vulpis? What's a spirit animal doing here?" Naruto asked.
"It's here for us to exterminate! Give it here!" Titanius said picking up his sword.
"No, this thing is connected to nature itself. You should not harm wild animals." Naruto said as Titanius grumbled. "Now then, who sent you?" he asked as he found a letter inside.
Dear Emperor Uzumaki,
With the recent attempt on the lives of my friends and tribe as a whole. Along with the sudden news of my ascension. I could not thank of a proper way to thank you. Other than owing you my life as well as offering this spirit animal. The Cotton Tail Fox as we call it is a majestic and peaceful creature, although it does have a small resemblance to a flying squirrel.
I Hope you accept my gift as gratitude. Especially with recent issues where you are unable to leave a human dominated world. Hopefully your own daughter and newborns enjoy the presence of this fox. Who I promise is kind and well behaved.
Sincerely, Licht
Naruto smiled, "Thank you Licht, I should write him back soon. But first, what to do with you." he said to the fox.
"Ponta?" The green fox asked with a tilted head.
"I'm sure Kunou will be happy to see you." Naruto said as the fox smiled.
"Ponta!" the fox said.
"Maybe you need a name. What about Ponta?" Naruto asked the fox who looked even more happy.
A while later
The maids and Kunou gasped at the adorable sight of the green fox. Who proceeded to run around the yard and smell everything. Before letting out another yelp of excitement.
"Tou-sama, she's adorable!" Kunou said Ponta jumped onto her head.
"Ponta." Ponta said as she nuzzled her head onto Kunou.
"Rem take a photo." Tohru said as Rem quickly scrounged the inside for a camera.
"Lord Licht sent this vulpin?" Ram asked.
"He did, it was as a sign of gratitude." Naruto answered before hearing Ponta's stomach growl.
"Ponta." the fox whined.
Tohru pouted, "I think Ponta wants something tasty to eat." she said as she extended her hands.
"Just give her some sandwiches." Ram suggested.
"Aren't they for the genin?" Tohru asked.
"I doubt all of them are still keeping up with Ranga." Ram said just as the dire wolf arrives.
"Master, I have finished leading the children. Most of them have either fallen or relied on carrying each other." Ranga said with a light pant.
"Good to hear, you may rest." Naruto said as the dire wolf nods and disappears into his master's shadow.
"Ponta." Ponta continued to whine.
"Just a minute Ponta. We have to see who failed." Tohru said as Ram grabbed the large plate of sandwiches.
As Ram predicted, many had failed or had yet to arrive. With Arashi appearing first with Mito on his back and Sasuke dragging his feet onto the ground.
"I win." Sasuke said.
"No way! I win!" Arashi argued.
"You carried your sister." Sasuke countered.
"Yeah and this adds more weight!" Arashi said before Mito punched him.
"Are you calling me fat!?" Mito asked angrily.
Shikamaru somehow managed to arrive with Kiba right next to him. Hinata was practically close to crawling to the front yard. Completely missing her jacket as she appeared to be sweating from the extended run. The last person to arrive was Shino who was ten minutes behind everyone else.
"Congratulations, everyone who arrived gets their food." Naruto said as the group groaned.
"Everyone else can starve." Ram said bluntly as Ponta jumped down.
"Ponta!" Ponta exclaimed as she dragged a sandwich with her mouth.
Rem finally came out, "Sorry, Lady Kushina helped me find one with film." she said before seeing the genin. "Did they have issues?" she asked.
"Don't feel bad for them Ram. They brought this on themselves." Ram said.
"Teaching requires tough love. They're lucky I'm not Sergeant Silverback." Naruto adds. He then looked around for a moment, "Now then, where are everyone else? I only see about two thirds of you." he asked.
Sasuke grunted, "I think the fangirls lost consciousness." he said referring to Ino and Sakura.
Shikamaru sighed, "I tried to take Choji with me but he was adamant about me leaving him behind, troublesome." he said.
"I see, since this was just a fitness test. There should be no worry about abandoning comrades." Naruto said as he looked at his siblings. "Blood is always thicker than water, but brothers in arms. Are brothers for life. I expect this to be ingrained into your mind as you grow." he explains.
The genin listened, but they did not understand… yet. It would be a while before the wisdom could take effect.
"Now then, finish up your food and rest for a moment. The day has only gotten started." Naruto said making everyone groan.
"Maybe you should call Sergeant Silverback." Tohru whispered.
"I think I should. He's more patient than me." Naruto said as some of his own troops shivered.
Some of them had trained under Silverback before his retirement. The drill sergeant is a retired beast man, specifically an ape. Who often took his job seriously and used the tendencies of his species to motivate his cadets. He was harsh and difficult, but he was fair in the end. Only forcing his cadets to reach limits that are not impossible.
Ram nodded in agreement, "I think tougher is love is what everyone needs." she said.
"But for now, we won't go overboard. Right?" Rem asked nervously.
"I think I should go back. Maybe let imouto and otouto see Ponta." Kunou said having an idea of where the training is going.
"Okay, maybe we can take the pictures inside." Rem said as she followed Kunou back inside.
"You better not take this break for granted. I'll have someone fetch the others for medical support and the rest of you will train after that." Naruto said as everyone groaned again. "I do not want to hear whining. Your instructors signed you up for an important event. They would not have signed you up if they did not expect the best from you." he explains, mentioning the chunin exams.
The night before the exams, a week and a half later
On the final day, Naruto told the genin to return home and relax. Not as in forget what he taught them so they can just lie down and be lazy. It was the perfect time to recover and mentally review everything. Since the conditioning was what took up most of the days. With the rest being new ways to refine their skills and prepare for the exams. Like Naruto thought, he wasn't a fan of child soldiers but at least it sounded like the exams were a better deterrent to armed conflict.
Regardless, it was still a war in a way and wars should not be taken lightly. Especially when resting on a metaphoric school night.
"Calm down with the ramen you two. You better not turn into balloons." Naruto said as Arashi and Mito devoured their bowls like they were bottles of water.
"But we're hungry!" the twins whined.
"Were you two born as Siamese twins?" Naruto asked.
"They might as well been." Minato said knowing how much the two act alike. "What about you Naruto? I never expected you to have such a serious attitude." he said as his eldest was older than his youngest.
Momon answered this one, "He was like those two as a kid, but he got serious during those conflicts." She answered.
"Yes, war is never a good way to solve anything. Except making the other guy shut up. Now why did the conflict start again?" Greyfarn asked, as his senile personality kicked in.
Momon slapped him, "Because you idiot. It's been like that before the kids were born." She said pointing at Walt, Larry and Igner who ate a separate table. "You know the previous ruler had issues of her own. Especially with a bunch of devils wanting to create chaos because "they felt like it" and thought it was a good balance." she explained.
"Really? I thought it was the fault of self entitled angels." Greyfarn said.
"That too." Momon replied.
"What happened?" Kushina asked, sounding lost.
"It's a long story, but to summarize most of it. It happened because one side said that evil should be evil and another side thought they were good no matter what. It sounds easy to understand, but both sides just fight like rabid dogs. Even tearing into their own sides for not agreeing with them." Momon explained.
"Angels are evil?" Kushina asked with a shocked face.
"Just the fallen… most of them. Some accept the facts, others just act entitled like humans. So they lose their shiny wings when they turn black." Momon said.
"We call them crows!" Igner said.
"Igner, don't interrupt mom." Larry said nervously.
"Quiet! For once Igner is right. Don't tell Azazel I said that though." Momon said with a chuckle.
Larry sighed in relief, "Thank goodness, I thought she was going to slap me." he said before hearing the snap of a finger.
When suddenly, an orc with a pair of nunchuks designed with gloves just for slapping appeared. For a moment, the orc proceeded to demonstrate amazing prowess with the weapons. Impressing everyone at dinner before he finally slapped Larry a couple of times.
"That's always the exciting part. The part before the actual slap I mean." Igner pointed out.
"It always is Igner." Walt said as Larry took his seat again.
"Enough about wars. They're boring, especially since it makes everyone tell uninteresting stories." Koyanskaya spoke up.
"AH!" Baby Hinata said almost as if he agreed.
"See? Hinata agrees with me." Koyanskaya said as her infant got fussy.
"Shouldn't Kakashi and Yamato be around you?" Minato asked.
Koyanskaya waved it off, "I will call them when I need them. Besides, they know better than to skip town." she said smiling evilly, making the Hokage shiver.
'Look what you got yourself into now Kakashi.' Minato thought before smiling. 'At least now he knows my pain.' he thought as Kakashi will know the suffering coming from raising babies.
"Hey speaking of which, how did you two meet?" Kushina asked as she looked at her son and daughter-in-law.
Yasaka smiled and let out a small blush, "I would say my husband tried various things to gain my attention at first." She said thinking about her husband in his younger years.
Naruto sighed, "I really don't want to think about it." he said.
Yasaka giggled as she firmly grasped her husband's hand, "Come now, you used to used to be energetic too." she said before whispering into his ear. "Remember how happy you wear to know that Kunou was on her way." she said reminding Naruto of her first pregnancy.
"I do, and now she has two more siblings." Naruto said as Ichigo and Kairi slept nearby in their shared crib.
"I still want to hear the full story." Kushina whined.
"Maybe later." Naruto said dodging the story.
Kushina wanted to continue asking only for Minato to interrupt, "You can hear it later Kushina. For now, let's just enjoy this. Who knows what could happen tomorrow. Especially the second part of the exam." He told his wife.
"Fine." Kushina said accepting the decision for now.
"It's not a long story anyways." Momon said laughing at the memory.
"You woman, are lucky I can't remember those days or remember where I left Pazuzu." Greyfarn said as he heard loud screaming.
"I think your pet gargoyle ate someone." Walt said.
"Aw what? Oh, it is dinner time for him! I'll be right back!" Greyfarn said as he grabbed some food to feed his gargoyle.
"And do you two have anything to say to oji and oba?" Koyanskaya said as her babies made random sounds. "I guess that means good luck to the both of you." she said to Arashi and Mito.
"We don't need luck! We got better thanks to nii-san!" Arashi said proudly.
"Thank you aniki!" Mito said.
"Your welcome." Naruto said smiling at his siblings.
"Ponta!" Ponta yells.
"And Ponta-chan is excited too." Kunou said as she pets her new pet.
At the Melromarc Embassy
As Naofumi ate his own dinner. Raphtalia and Filo just stared at Seiya after he went through all the measurements to make sure his food wasn't poisoned or capable of harming him in any way.
"You are so cautious." Raphtalia said.
"He's never not cautious." Ilulu said.
"I don't know if someone set this thing to explode or stun me like those dragons did. As far as I know, someone here is an impostor." Seiya said sounding unreasonable.
"I wish I was cautious like you." Naofumi said.
"Master Naofumi!" Raphtalia complained.
"What? I wouldn't have been framed by Myne." Naofumi replied bitterly.
Seiya closed his eyes and pictured it, "Sweet girl treating you like you're the nicest person in the world and had infinite patience before having a nice dinner or at leeast a good day with you right?" he asked.
"That's more or less what happened." Naofumi answered.
"That's one of four scenarios I pictured. Did she put something in your food or drink that adds amnesia?" Seiya asked.
"No." Naofumi answered.
"I'm guessing she tampered with something at night or tried to." Seiya said almost as if he investigated the false sexual assault Naofumi is framed for.
"Just let it go." Naofumi said.
"Fine, but I don't trust that wagon. It's likely going to be a death trap real soon." Seiya predicted.
Filo nodded, "Yeah master! It feels too light!" she said.
"Too light? What does that mean?" Naofumi asked.
"Filo can carry bigger wagons!" Filo said making her master sigh.
Seiya started to make a disgusted face, "I knew it! Shield, get me a healing potion and one for curing all ailments!" he said.
Mash jumped to his feet, "What happened Seiya!" he yelled.
"Food is freezing cold! I might get salmonella!" Seiya said pointing at his meal.
Mash face faulted, "Because you spent 15 minutes picking at it instead of eating!" he yelled.
Seiya raised up the food, "We gotta toss it out!" he yelled.
"Sit down Seiya, just heat it up again." Naofumi suggested.
"I hate microwaving meals." Seiya said.
Naofumi groaned, "Then go ask for another one." he said as Seiya narrowed his eyes.
"Then I would need to inspect that one next. Then the salmonella will grow and this whole place will be infested." Seiya said as he thought over the scenarios.
"You are one cautious hero." Raphtalia comments.
Seiya ignored the comment, "Whatever, maybe I can burn of the salmonella with a fire." he said. "Still, I think the Salmonella is the least of our problems. This place is new and I don't like change, but I think bullshit other than your crappy coworkers is on it's way.
"You think trouble is coming Seiya?" Mash asked.
"I don't think, I know." Seiya said.
Naofumi sighed again, "Somehow I believe him. It's not the first time someone or something tried to screw us over." he said having a bad feeling in the near future.
"Hey thinking about it, isn't there some big yearly test in these villages?" Raphtalia asked.
"Yeah, something super important is tomorrow. So we have to take extra care of Mel and Kunou!" Filo adds.
"I don't know about the kids, but I think tomorrow is the worst time for anything bad to happen." Naofumi responds.
Seiya scoffed, "I blame that useless goddess." He said.
"Maybe she wasn't a real goddess like you said." Naofumi said as nobody aside from Mash and Ilulu believed that Rista was real and a goddess.
"Don't be so mean Seiya, Rista is just trying to be helpful and you push her away." Ilulu said.
Seiya ignored her, "She's more useful when she isn't dragging us around the place." he said as if he's intentionally trying to hate seiya.
"It sounds like I'm not the only one with girl problems. Only my reasons are different." Naofumi said as he picked up his empty plate.
"Whatever, the job is taking too long anyways." Seiya said as he looked down at his plate.
As Naofumi and the rest cleaned up for the night. Seiya had this strange feeling with a small migraine going on in his head. Where for some reason, he could see a brown haired girl with a purple bow giving him the plate.
"You need to eat something Seiya. There's no use running headfirst into a battle on an empty stomach. I swear, you are too reckless.." said the image of the girl with a bow.
Seiya shook his head, 'Ignore it, someone is just messing with you.' he thought to himself.
Elsehwhere, The Church of The Three Heroes
Things were falling apart for pope Balmus. The man who claimed to be granting humanity the path of salvation by following all but one of the four heroes was furious. That Disley was usurping him again, destroying his influence by exposing his plans with Aultcray. It would be only a matter of time before ALL of his plans are revealed and he's ruined. So what if the Shield Hero was a generic boy and not a real demon? It's the image of the shield he considered to be evil.
That there would be no path to God without Balmus. At least that's what the fallen pope believed. Now all he had to do was think of a way to recover from this and likely get rid of the Spear, Sword and Bow heroes as they had fallen harder in his eyes.
"Kukuku, it seems that our mutual benefactor had good reason to send me here." said a cold voice.
"Who is there!? Show yourself!" Balmus demands.
"An authoritative type I see. I wonder what's left when the truth is out." said a pale man with black hair as he stepped out from the shadows.
"Who are you? How dare you intrude upon the house of God?" Balmus asked.
"God? As in Kami you say? I would say that Graf Dumas has given me the invitation, regardless if you wish to open the doors for me." said the man.
"Tell me who you are! I will not ask again!" Balmus demands.
The man laughs again, "I am Orochimaru, the Snake sannin." he said as his tongue briefly extends outwards.
Balmus stepped back in surprise, "A serpent. A servant of the devil." he said.
Orochimaru grinned, "Believe what you wish, but I have something you may need for the inevitable future." he said pulling out a strange case filled with vials. "I did mention it was Graf Dumas who sent me after all." he said.
Balmus' eye widened, "You did and what purpose does he have sending you?" he asked.
Orochimaru once again found the pope amusing, "So slow, this will further strengthen you. Of course, it will help stop your queen from denying your god's word." He said as Balmus was already in a desperate situation. "You wouldn't want to lose everything you worked for. All because of an incident, yes?" he asked, knowing that this started with Aultcray summoning the four Cardinal Heroes.
"It did, then there were the nobles. Giving into greed so easily, taking the power of elves. The devil spawns, practically awaiting to posses the fools." Balmus said sounding angry.
"Why of course, what would be better than to cleanse yourself and fight back against the devil." Orochimaru said humoring the man.
Regardless of how he wanted to communicate with Balmus. Orochimaru knew how to manipulate someone and how to dangle an offer over their heads as to making them obey him. Especially a person so desperate to survive when danger comes knocking on the door. Balmus is like any other individual, greed harmed the nobility but pride will kill this fallen holy man.
"Now then, what do you say? Are you willing to fight until your body breaks so long as to strengthen your faith?" Orochimaru asked, his grin never leaving his face.
Balmus did not think twice as he took the case, "I will, now return to your benefactor. I have to prepare to eliminate the devil's followers." he said.
"Very well, until next time your holiness." Orochimaru said as he sinked through the floor.
"I best have that floor scrubbed, or destroyed and replaced." Balmus said before walking into another room. Where he found a dark haired boy with glasses shining a single handed weapon, "Okumura, I need you to prepare the paladins. I think it's time we finally rid Melromarc and possibly the other realms of the devil's minions." he said.
"Very well sir, it will be done." the young boy said as he ran off to find his comrades.
Leaving Balmus behind to look at the vials, 'Perhaps I was too hasty, but even now. Desperate times call for desperate measures.' he thought.
Elsewhere, Amegakure
In the village cursed with what appeared to be endless rain with a gloomy atmosphere contained a powerful man. With eyes of great power. Great enough to make the man believe himself to be a true god. Granting him the belief that he is above all humans and that salvation comes in what he believes to be salvation. As he leads a group of dangerous humans to grant peace.
This is Nagato Uzumaki, better known as Pain. Leader of the Akatsuki and he was currently having an important meeting among his subordinates.
"Everyone, we're gathered here to present a new individual to join our cause for peace." Pain announces.
"Another try hard?" asked a blond individual.
"Be silent Deidara, this may be important." said a man with a hunchback.
"It's probably another coward like Orochimaru. The idiot ran when he thought he could attack Itachi from behind, so don't get angry with me Sasori senpai." Deidara said.
"Enough." Pain said silencing them. "This one is actually unique. With Zetsu reporting the sudden summoning of strange individuals. This one in particular, is fairly strong." he explains as a figure could be heard in the distance.
"Nya, can I come out yet? I'm sure there's lots of spooky cults that want to hire me." said a female voice.
"Another female?" asked another Akatsuki member.
"Yeah is that a problem, nya?" The female asked. "I already beat origami over there before I learned she was a lady. I never met someone that rough since the last I touched sand paper." she said.
Konan, the Angel of Ame as people call her, was sorely defeated. It was only thanks to Pain's intervention that she wasn't killed.
"And need I remind you to control yourself?" Pain asked.
"So mean." the woman comments.
Pain ignored her comment, "This is Kuroka, a strange foreigner with a bloodline that lets her appear as a cat and control senjutsu perfectly." he explains.
Kuroka, as she was called, stepped forward to where her comrades could see her. Only for the men (minus Kakuzu, Sasori and Zetsu) to go wide eyed by the outfit. The woman did have cat ears and two tails, with breasts that were ready to jump out of her small kimono.
"Nya, nice to meet some of you." Kuroka said acting cheerful.
"Really? This bitch looks like a cosplayer. Did she really defeat Konan?" asked the Jasinist, Hidan.
Who quickly found himself sent crash into a wall, "Oops, my mistake. I just don't like dirty words from dirty men." Kuroka said putting her foot down as she had kicked Hidan. "Besides, I like silent types that think." she said eyeing Itachi.
Kisame laughed, "I like her already. She made Hidan shut up." he said.
Meanwhile Itachi tried to turn his attention away from Kuroka. Who subtly moved to enter his gaze again. Prompting Itachi to move his head again.
"That is the end of the first part of our meeting. Now then, I think Zetsu has more information as to this sudden phenomenon. That is unless Kuroka here wishes to explain." Pain said turning his eyes onto the catwoman.
"I'll wait my turn then. Also, do I have to wear one of these cloaks? I don't want to look like man thing over there." Kuroka said pointing at Konan who looked emotionless.
Deep down she was peeved and annoyed that some woman in a skimpy outfit defeated her fairly easily. Ignoring Konan's wounded pride, everyone focused on Zetsu who revealed the little information he came up with. As this was something even he had no knowledge of and speaking of knowledge, the real leader of the Akatsuki had no knowledge of Zetsu himself. For the plant like man was hiding things that are older than the Hidden Villages and even the Warring States.
For Zetsu was not aware of what was going on with his many years of knowledge and experience in the Elemental Nations.
TO BE CONTINUED…
NOTES: Hopefully you all enjoyed that, sorry if it felt slow. But it kind of built up to the issues with Melromarc and you can see that it's effecting more realms, including Geaebrande. Just wait until next time, when ever more secrets are revealed and actions are taken with the appearance of new characters in different factions.