Chapter 12
Fire Country Border
The combined might of Naruto's forces and local shinobi from Konoha were still struggling to destroy the amalgamation that was once Pope Balmus. With about 80% of his followers having already been devoured, the monster started to grow larger. The airships had continued to open fire and were able to damage the monster. At least this proved that the monster only grew stronger by devouring mass rather than power.
Everyone continued to attack from a distance. Though some were considering trying to plan out a retreat in case the beast started to move towards them. Naruto considered this as well as there damage output wasn't enough.
"Keep firing, I'll signal for the airships to land again." Naruto said as he planned out an evacuation.
Even if the monster that Balmus has become won't gain strength through attacks. The last thing Naruto needed to do was stand around and waste energy. Looking up, Alucard already signaled for individual capable of independent flight to return as well. A good thing too, because the monster started fighting back.
The monster started to release round masses of it's physical body onto Naruto's side. Naruto proceeded to draw his sword again and watched as the masses came to life. All of them screeching and stumbling towards everyone within proximity, only to be cut down by Naruto's fiery slashes. It was unknown as to how dangerous these smaller lifeforms were but Naruto didn't want to find out as he evaporated them with fire floating from each slash.
By this point, the airships started to land and started taking everyone in.
"Everyone retreat! We have prepare a new strategy!" Naruto shouts as he keeps fighting the incoming creatures. With even more landing in front of him, "Fox Fire!" he shouts as he burns the entire landscape in front of him.
With that done, Naruto dashed onto the airship to meet up with Alcuard. Where he was already planning out a new strategy to deal with the monster. With a new concern being that the monster would try to escape and seek out more individuals to devour and possibly heal.
"That thing feels pain, but it has too much health." Naruto said.
"That I know, the matter is trying to kill it as well as containing it." Alucard said. "There is no doubt those smaller creatures likely have the same ability and can spread." he added.
"Could they work like a hive mind of parasites or independently?" an officer asked.
"That doesn't matter now. What matters is killing it." Alucard said, putting emphasis on destroying the monster.
"Do you think there might anything it might reject? Something that would give it the equivalent of a stomach ache?" Naruto asked.
"We could try a different ammunition. Perhaps a poison or something that could radiate the body in a negative light." Alucard suggested.
"The beast is firing at us!" an officer yelled before the airship started shaking.
"Better risk trying something than nothing." Naruto said before jumping out of the airship.
As he exited the aircraft, Naruto's body was surrounded by vermillion colored chakra. Where his animalistic features became much more defined as his body grew. By the time he landed, he had transformed into a giant fox that towered over the monster. Shocking the remnants of Balmus' followers and the nearby shinobi as well as leaving the empire's soldiers looking on in awe.
"Of course, there's always just blasting things away with brute force. That could potentially work too." Alucard said as he crossed his arms and watched the fight unfold.
With Team 7
Mito gritted her teeth as she ran out into the cold snow with Tania to chase after the actress. After a long talk with the client, he lied about the real purpose of the mission. Though the camera crew solely came to film a movie, it turned out that the actress is actually a long lost princess. Yukie Fujikaze is in fact, Koyuki Kazehana and she didn't want to return home after her father died and her uncle became a dictator.
"I get that she had a bad childhood and being a ruler is difficult, but she complain without being a brat?" Tania asked angrily.
"I guess not." Mito responded.
Tania growled, "I'm going to turn this icy glacier into a river!" she yelled as she proceeded to burn all of the snow around her.
Despite losing their footing a few times because of that. The girls eventually caught up to Koyuki who got tired and fell to her knees. Despite being an actress, she wasn't very fit or prepared to make the journey across long distances under these weather conditions.
"I'm not going back!" Koyuki yelled. "I can't rule!" she added.
"With that personality, I want to know who would want you." Mito replied.
"It's hopeless, all that's waiting for me here is death." Koyuki said as she was ready to sob.
"Then stop running into the snow like an idiot!" Tania yelled, not understanding what Koyuki really meant.
Koyuki hit the snow, "Don't you get it? I…"
"Shut up!" Tania yelled as she lifted Koyuki over her shoulder. "We still have a job, you have your duty and you're only going to make it worse by complaining. You're such a diva, it's annoying." she said.
"You don't understand!" Koyuki yelled.
Mito sighed, "What are we even doing here?" she asked.
"I don't know, I wanted a fight and now I'm a slave and dealing with this annoying brat." Tania answered in a tired voice.
Then Mito stopped, "What the?" she asked as she uncovered the snow under her boots. Where she found metal tracks, "What are these?" she asked.
"Those look like train tracks. Though this place looks desolate." Tania said as she looked around. "It leads to that cave, maybe there's a mine." she said.
"That's no mine." Mito said as she saw some lights coming out.
Soon enough, Mito discovered the mechanical device that would revolutionize modern day travel in this realm. A strong and mighty machine capable of long distance travel and protection despite the heavy requirements needed to maintain it. It's also very quick, but apparently much slower than a horse as Mito and Arashi had trouble chasing after a horse the other day.
Clearly, Mito had no issues whatsoever with running away from a train.
"What is that thing!? A demon!?" Mito asked as they ran away.
"I think it's a train! I remember seeing one of these, but they were so small and clunky so I've never been on one!" Tania shouted. "Actually, now that I think about it. They can only move on metal tracks." she said, calming down a bit.
Mito looked down at the tracks, "Let's turn this way!" she said they took a sharp left turn.
The two jumped away as to avoid the train and subsequently dropped Koyuki in the snow. At least the princess was still alive, though unconscious from being frightened by the sight of a train trying to hit her. Though it only got worse as the train owner was anything but a friend as girls noticed some snow shinobi coming out.
"Ah, there you are princess." Nadare said as he saw Koyuki's body. "I thank you young ladies for delivering her to us." he added.
"Heck no! Get your own princess!" Tania yelled.
"Yeah and… hey Tania, don't dragons kidnap princesses?" Mito suddenly asked.
"Don't ask me about racist stereotypes now!" Tania replied.
Just as the rest of the snow shinobi were coming out of the train. Everyone's attention was turned towards the sounds of a large group of men. Where they were lead by Sandayu, who looked ready for war as he held up a sword. A literal climactic moment in a movie was being presented here today.
"Hey lady, wake up. Your manager is about to go to war." Mito said as she started shaking Koyuki.
Nadara smirked at Sandayu, "So you have come out of hiding, you traitor?" he asked.
"I am no traitor! I, as well as these brave men of Yuki no kuni, do not bow to the whims of a tyrannical dictator!" Sandayu said as his men roared in agreement.
Unknown to anyone, the film group along with Kakashi's team had arrived to look for Tania and Mito. With the film director having already started to record Sandayu giving his speech. Thinking it would be a good scene for the climax and patiently awaited for the result of this battle.
"Then you are willing to die for a cowardly woman?" Nadare asked as he crossed his arms.
"We are willing to die yes, but Koyuki-hime is no coward! Her life alone is what drives us! Because the will of her father, our former daimyo, runs through her veins!" Sandayu replied before aiming his weapon at Nadare. "Soldiers of Yuki no Kuni! Attack!" he yelled.
The director chuckled, "Everything up until that last command was good." he whispered to his editor.
By then, Nadare signaled for his men to remove the tarps off of the train. Where they revealed several ballistas loaded with kunai. As the army of rebels came down from the mountains, Nadare lowered his arm and signaled for the ballistas to open fire. While Sandayu's men had no chance of surviving, that didn't mean that they were completely alone.
"Third Form: Blazing Universe!" Mito yelled as she cut the frontal part of ballista with scorching flames.
"What!?" Nadare asked.
What he never noticed, was Mito being tossed by Tania so that the girl could try to take out the weaponry. Mito then focused her aim onto the ballista crews so that they would stop firing on Sandayu.
"Mizore! Fubuki! Get that little girl!" Nadare commanded.
"Focus on everyone, you jerk!" Tania yelled as she punched Nadare's head, causing him to fall off of the train.
By then, the train was already surrounded by the rest of Kakashi's team. Arashi already jumped onto Mizore's back and tried to bringing him off the train. While Sasuke found himself facing Fubuki as Sakura and the remaining dragons tried to disable the train. Most importantly… the film director attempted to contain his excitement from how epic the fight was looking in his camera.
'Who knew that improv could be this good?' the director thought.
However, it was revealed that Nadare had a second wave of troops that were now coming out of the train. All of them wearing robes and carrying large books in their hands as they released the power of the elements from their hands.
"Take cover!" Arashi shouted at his teammates.
As he jumped off of Mizore's back, the large snow shinobi found himself caught in the crossfire and being electrocuted alive by one robed mage. The man screamed in pain as he failed to get out of the way of the continued attacks before falling off of the train. That's where Sakura created a large barrier to shield the rest of her team.
"Is someone going to do something about them? I can't hold this thing for long." Sakura said.
"We got this Sakura!" Luna shouts.
Sakura nodded as she saw the fairies channelling their magic into a combined attack. As Sakura held up her barrier for another few seconds. The mages started to put more pressure into their attacks as they slowly moved closer towards her. When the fairies were ready, Sakura quickly ran behind them as to avoid the massive attack.
"Inferno Burst!" the twins shout as they created a giant tornado made of flames.
The attack hit all of the mages in range. Causing most to be scorched upon impact with the rest being sent flying back. However, not all of them appeared to be defeated just yet.
"Gravity Wall!" the twins cry out as they cast another barrier to block the next wave of attacks.
"Where did these guys even come from?" Luna asked.
"Just keep defending. We're making good progress." Sakura said as she prepared another technique.
With the men
Fubuki jumped back onto the ground as she avoided Sasuke's sword slashes. The pink haired kunoichi smirked as she formed more hand seals.
"Ice Style: Swallow Snow Storm!" Fubuki shouts as she creates a group of swallows with the ice around her.
The swallows quickly circled around Sasuke and attempted to maim him with their ice sharp wings. Unfortunately for Fubuki, this only motivated Sasuke to spam his trademark clan jutsu.
"Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu!" Sasuke shouts as he melts the swallows. The Uchiha then turned his attention back to Fubuki, "Second Form: Rice Spirit!" He shouted.
As Sasuke attempted to slash at Fubuki. The lightning technique was countered but eventually broken by the the ice prison that Fubuki used on herself to block the attack. Fubuki's defense was broken, but she escaped unscathed. However, she never realized that Arashi is also targeting her since Mizore was accidentally killed during the crossfire.
"Fourth Form: Striking Tide!" Arashi yelled as he came down onto Fubuki.
As the woman did her best to try and block the attack. Her chakra armor started to crack by the immense pressure. Even if the armor was built to defend against the powers of the shinobi world. It wasn't invincible, seeing as how Mizore was quickly dispatched by a lot of firepower from their supposed allies. However, as Fubuki was able to slow down the attack despite the multiple slashes. It left her open for Sasuke to strike from the side.
"First Form: Thunderclap and Flash - Eight Fold!" Sasuke yells out.
With Fubuki unable to move to save herself. She was quickly hit eight times with lightning enhanced slashes. Causing the armor to further break apart until most of her body was exposed to normal attacks.
"Second Form: Water Wheel!" Arashi yelled as he finished Fubuki off with one final vertical slash. "That's two down." Arashi said before they went back to the train.
By then, the snow shinobi were already defeated by the combined might of Sandayu's forces and Kakashi. While the rest of the girls started defeating the enemy mages. However, it wasn't over as Nadare was still standing and scooped up Koyuki just as she had been waking up. As he ran, a large blimp appeared over the horizon and made it's way towards the train.
"He's getting away!" Sandayu shouted.
"Can't one of you fly after him?" Arashi asked the female dragonoids.
"I'm a lot slower in my true form." Tania said.
"I could try, but I'm not too fast either." Tomoe said.
By this point, Tio had already transformed and was waiting for someone to climb onto her back. Arashi and Sasuke quickly climbed on before ordering Tio to get flying. Though perhaps this was a bit overkill considering that the blimp wasn't particularly fast. The technology used to make it wasn't as good the airships handled by Naruto's empire. Then again, those are combined with the power of magic and scientists from many places.
Though that only meant that they had to be careful. Since Tio's size could easily destroy the blimp if she gets too close.
"Do you two think you can hop on from here?" Tio asked, as they saw Nadare carry Koyuki inside.
"I can definitely reach it." Arashi said right before hopping onto blimp's latter.
"Idiot." Sasuke said as he shook his head.
Just as Sasuke was about to jump after Arashi. The blimp was suddenly hit by something massive. Sasuke grabbed onto one of Tio's scales as she was also affected by the impact of the attack on the blimp.
"I need to move away!" Tio warned as she swerved around the blimp.
"What about Arashi? He's still in there?" Sasuke asked.
"You're the one who called him an idiot." Tio pointed out. "Besides, the type of individual that Arashi is typically survives near death experiences." she added.
Just then, they saw the entire upper part of the blimp being set on fire. Tio was taking back her words until she saw Arashi jumping out of the blimp with Koyuki in his arms.
"See?" Tio asked as she went to fly down after Arashi.
"AHHHH! I saved the princess! AHHHH!" Arashi screamed as he plummeted towards the snow.
Only to be saved by Tio at the last moment, "I think we need to cut back on the risk taking." Tio said.
"But I still saved the princess." Arashi said.
"Did you see what caused that crash?" Sasuke asked.
"Some crazy guy with red hair just came rushing in. Some old dude was threatening Yukie here and I had to tune it out once that whole crash happened." Arashi tried to explain just as the blimp hit the snow in the distance.
"We should still check it out. At least make sure the threat is gone." Sasuke suggested.
Tio flew towards the crash and saw several snow ninja lying dead. Most likely having been killed from the crash or possibly by the red haired man that Arashi mentioned. Whatever it was, the trio stayed in the sky as they watched someone come crawling out from the wreckage. Only to be kicked by a red haired man.
"That's him.' Arashi said.
"And that's my uncle… the man that killed my father." Koyuki said, now wide awake.
"So is this a good or a bad thing?" Sasuke asked.
If that's Doto and he's being killed, is it by a good samaritan (which is unlikely) or a rival who hated Doto?
"He isn't ordinary, I have to say that much." Arashi said before hearing a roar.
Tio moved back as she saw an ice dragon fly past her. Forcing the woman to land on the ground out of fear. Almost as if Tio recognized that specific dragon as it landed around the red haired man and Doto. Though it looked like Doto was still fighting as he fought the red head by punching him in the chin. Only for his gauntlet to be shattered in the process.
"Who is that guy?" Sasuke asked.
That's when they saw the red haired man punch his fist through Doto's chest. Not showing even the slightest bit of resistance despite how strong the chakra armor was meant to be. With that having happened, Doto used the final few seconds of his life to hit his murderer's face before being thrown off.
"Hopefully not an enemy." Arashi answered.
Back with Naruto
Now in full fox form, Naruto gripped the giant slimy monster with his clawed hands. The Crimson Emperor let out a snarl as he unleashed a large bright red chakra beam from his mouth. The resulting explosion did manage to tear through a giant chunk of the monster. However, it was far from defeated despite how much of it's mass it lost. As the creature then tried to devour Naruto in response to it. Having greater difficulty as Naruto breathed more blue flames onto the creature.
'It's not regenerating as quickly, but it's still trying to fight. Damn parasite.' Naruto thought before slamming it into the ground.
As the monster was struggling to stand, Naruto held down the creature with his tails and breathed more fire onto it. As the beast slowly started to weaken, a small vortex appeared over the sky. With an armored figure with light hair and a metal eye mask appeared floating over the battlefield. It took a few minutes before anyone actually noticed that the stranger had appeared. Naruto had yet to sense them as he was continuously blasting the creature who continued to shrink as it became weaker.
That left Alucard to order the airships to take aim at the figure. While the dhampir himself armed himself and jumped off from the deck and flew towards the figure.
"Dumas." Alucard said in a serious voice.
"Son of Dracula." Duman greeted back. "You both seem to know where I do not want you either." he said.
"And you seem to not know, that you are not wanted anywhere." Alucard shot back.
"I think your current concern should be the failed experiment and the false prophet that your "Brother" is battling." Dumas said.
Looking down for a brief moment, Naruto was being coated by the dark slime that made the monster. Luckily, he was too strong to be devoured as his yoki started to burn away most of the creature. Alucard had faith in Naruto and aimed his weapon at Dumas, only to see that he was gone one second later. When Alucard spotted him again, he saw the masked man blast his way into the monster and rip out a junk of the material that made it.
"DUMAS!" Naruto roared as he clawed his way through the monster.
"Another day, Uzumaki, not today." Dumas said as he placed the mass in a container.
However, as Dumas attempted to leave. He felt what was left of Balmus as most of the man's limbs looked shrunken and missing. It wasn't anything gory like his limbs being ripped apart, but appearing eaten like a wooden table infested with termites. The man only had most of his torso, head and a decent working arm as he grabbed onto Dumas.
Naruto would have likely attacked or grabbed onto the masked man too had he not been distracted by the slime trying to attack his body. With Alucard also trying to remove the parasitic sentient.
"You cannot leave me behind! This parasite is killing me and already wiped out my followers!" Balmus cried out.
"You trampled over anyone who's opinion differed from yours. I see no reason in this being reflected back to you." Dumas said.
"But I was following my god's words! Why have I been forsaken!?" Balmus asked as if he were a victim.
"You were following your own desires, like any ordinary human. Any failure to obtain your fictional end goal is your own fault. You were merely a pawn, with no self control." Dumas said. "You are nothing." he said before slicing off the man's arm with an ethereal blade.
"Dumas!" Balmus screamed as his body plummeted.
Leaving the pope to scream in terror as he fell from high in the air. Only watching as Naruto finally overcame the black mass and destroyed it's remains while Dumas flew into a vortex. Leaving behind the the Pope who was trying to plead for someone to save him. Only for the body to break upon landing on the ground.
With Dumas having escaped and the black mass annihilated. Naruto reverted to his base form to regroup with Alucard.
"How is Dumas alive?" Naruto asked.
"We will find out soon, but we do know is that he was involved in this monster's creation and possibly other attacks around the realms." Alucard said. "We need to return to the village and form a council with Vali. Assuming his future wife has not killed him yet." he said.
Naruto groaned, "I still want a scouting team to scan the area. Find any sign of survivors from that church and have them interrogated." he said aggressively.
"And we will. I do not like this and I'm anxious as well." Alucard said. "For now, we need to remain calm and plan things out." he added.
"Let us go then." Naruto said as he signaled for an airship to pick them up.
That was one catastrophe handled, but it begs the question as to what will happen next. The Elemental Nations is far from saved and will have to prepare for battles all over the world.
Back in Yuki no Kuni
Tio cautiously landed away from the red haired man and the frost dragon. The boys told the woman to keep an eye on Koyuki in case things became worse. Sasuke and Arashi carefully approached the red haired man as he looked over Doto's corpse. Only for it to be tossed aside again as if it were nothing worthy of his time. The red haired man turned around as he sensed the two genin.
"I see you two have taken your sweet time to arrive." the man said.
"Who are you? Are you one of Doto's rivals?" Arashi asked with his blade drawn.
The grinned at Arashi, "I heard a wise man once say, "Do not draw/aim your weapon unless you intend to use it.", what are your intentions with that sword?" the red haired man asked.
Now Arashi felt nervous, Kushina told him something similar about using a weapon. Though mostly it was about mannerisms and how to avoid getting into a fight like an idiot. Though for other types of fighters, they would consider drawing a weapon if they believe they are capable of defeating their foe or at least harming them.
"Though, to answer your question. I have no desire to be in a partnership with such a man." the man said, referring to Doto. "Another arrogant man who believes his nation will conquer the world because of one unique piece of technology or power. How shameful." he said.
"So why are you here?" Sasuke asked.
"And why the big dragon? It makes ours look super lame." Arashi asked.
Tio sweat dropped as she heard the indirect insult in the distance. Being a dragon, Tio and the other girls had sensitive hearing and sense of smell. Meaning that most whispers wouldn't go unnoticed if a dragon was paying attention.
"Velzard is unique, don't mind her presence." the man said. "Allow me to introduce myself, I am Guy Crimson, and your brother's rival." he said.
"Excuse me?" Sasuke asked.
"This isn't one of those one sided things is it?" Arashi asked.
They already met Might Guy, they didn't want this to look like that odd obsessions with competitions. It didn't help that this was a strong individual with a similar name. Though something tells these boys that Guy Crimson is a lot stronger than Might Guy.
Guy shook his head at Arashi's question, "Far from it, I say we're in a competition of sorts, but just from aimlessly testing our might." he said. "I can see he did a fair job of teaching you the basic breathing styles, but still at an academic level. Nothing worth my time, yet." he said.
"Wait, this guy wanted a fight?" Arashi asked his teammate.
"I considered it, but Velzard advised against it. I can see why." Guy said as he started moving towards the dragon.
"So was there ever a reason to fight Doto?" Arashi asked.
"I had an issue with those mages he hired. That is all, but if you want to know more." Guy said before picking up a loose kunai from the snow.
Then throwing it Arashi, resulting in blood dripping from his cheek. The little healing factor Arashi had, already started to get to work but was putting in overtime with the effort. As the cut was small but deep with that level of power.
"Try cutting me like that and I may consider you interesting." Guy said before hopping onto Velzard's back. "That reminds me, that foolish man down there. As I said before, he believed he could conquer the world with a unique weapon but it wasn't his armor. It was related to some necklace." he said before leaving.
"That guy was creepy." Arashi said as he shivered.
"You should Sakura to treat that. Also, what necklace?" Sasuke asked before remembering a small detail.
Some time later
Sasuke groaned, "It's not working." he said as the necklace shattered.
The piece of jewelry he thought was the one Koyuki wore. Except it didn't have to do anything with the weapon that Guy mentioned. After regrouping with everyone else, they met up at the supposed device that Doto wanted to use to begin his conquest. However, it seemed that despite Sandayu having some idea of what they meant. It wasn't working much to the client's shock.
"Not that I'm unhappy that such a weapon can't be activated. I'm still disturbed, the key should work. Was it taken by some chance?" Sandayu asked.
"Oh, you mean this one!" Kakashi said as he held out a necklace. "I exchanged it for a fake while Koyuki was unconscious." he explained.
"Should we stop worrying about the superweapon? I mean, it's not a good idea to accidentally activate it if we find it." Sora said.
"A good point." Tomoe said.
"Yeah, but we could try to break it or at least hide it away." Luna said.
Koyuki shook her head, "I refuse to believe my peace loving father would allow such a weapon to exist." she said. "There can't be one that would damage the Elemental Nations and satisfy my uncle's desires." she said.
"I believe that too." Sandayu said, having personally known Koyuki's father.
Mito sighed, "If you're that worried about the key being a potential super weapon. The break it." she spoke up.
"What!?" Sandayu asked.
"Just break it, no key equals no super weapon." Mito explained.
"It also means no to whatever it really is if it's not a weapon so no risk either way." Arashi said in agreement.
"Shouldn't we think this through?" Sakura asked.
"I'm not going to stand here all day. Arashi, give me your tack hammer." Mito said as her brother pulled out a very small hammer.
"You carry hammers with you?" Sora asked.
"You want one?" Arashi asked before seeing Sora shake her head.
Koyuki defended her necklace, "No, this was a treasure. It was never explicitly mentioned that this was treasure would be a weapon." she said before finding a way to unlock the treasure.
When the princess did, everyone patiently awaited the results. Some wondered if it was a slow locking mechanism that was moving or if they are witnessing the slowest apocalyptic event.
"At least it's warm now." Tomoe commented.
"Now you're not complaining anymore?" Arashi asked.
"I think Lady Velzard was responsible for the lowered temperatures earlier." Tio spoke up.
"Wait, what?" Tomoe asked.
Before the banter continued, everyone figured out what the treasure (which Doto thought was a weapon) truly is. The power to change Yuki no Kuni under it's new ruler has been revealed.
"Wow, you discovered a heater. Congratulations." Tania said dryly.
"That's it? That's the big secondary quest?" Luna asked.
Kakashi also looked a bit underwhelmed, "I'm afraid, I'm lost for words as well." he said.
Koyuki smiled, "This is what my father envisioned. He wanted to bring change to Yuki no Kuni." she said as she felt the heat. "Now, it could become something more. Possibly… Haru no Kuni." she said.
"I'm still underwhelmed." Luna whispered.
"That will be 20 million ryo." Tania told Sandayu who looked exasperated by such a steep demand.
Luckily, Tania has no authority on the matter and the payment has been handled through the Hokage. Though the group would feel somewhat compensated with the upcoming celebrations.
A week and a half later
Mito smirked as she looked at the photo given to her after the Koyuki's coronation. After having helped defeat Doto and covering up the meeting with Guy Crimson with Koyuki's help. The Konoha team and company were treated well at the celebration and afterparty. Though despite Koyuki succeeding her father as the true ruler of Yuki no Kuni (possibly to be renamed, Haru no kuni, in the future), the woman wanted to continue being an actress as a side job.
However, none of that is what got Mito excited. What got her excited is the photo of Arashi getting kissed by Koyuki as a form of gratitude. Sasuke received the same treatment much to Sakura's frustration. Though Mito really wanted to show the photo of her brother to her mother to further embarrass him as Arashi and Sasuke were given ceremonial clothes to further add attention to them. She also carried of Sasuke's cheek kiss as to give to Mikoto after Sasuke destroyed his copies.
"I wish we packed more shrimp." Luna said.
"Luna, I think you already ate too much at the coronation." Sora said, looking out for her sister's eating habits.
"They were so good, you're such a sourpuss." Luna replied.
"I think I gained a lot of weight, how horrifying." Tio said as she looked saddened.
"Calm down, you're still the same." Tania said.
As everyone continued their banter, Tomoe approached the boys.
"Hey, you two said you ran into Velzard and Guy Crimson right?" Tomoe asked.
"That's what the creepy guy called himself." Arashi answered.
Tomoe looked between her kin and her companions, "Did he say what he wanted? I know Crimson isn't a blood lusted monster, but he's not someone that goes on casual strolls whenever he feels like it." she explained.
"He just hated Doto and said he wanted to watch us." Sasuke whispered.
"What for?" Tomoe asked.
"He likes our kenjutsu." Arashi answered bluntly.
Tomoe scoffed, "Those styles are wimpy against high tier monsters. Why would he care about you two flashing around with those techniques?" she asked.
"He said he knew our brother. Why is he sounding so scary to you?" Arashi asked.
Tomoe sighed, "Guy Crimson is one of the most powerful creatures in the realm. A demon lord that literally walks over any upstart using the name and similar. Not even Tohru's father would be brave enough to go near him." she explained.
"Wow, really? Tohru's pretty tough, just a bit tougher than you girls." Arashi replied.
Tomoe sighed, "Then you guys just need to learn to be careful. Even I'm not that reckless." she said.
"Probably hard to do, when he wants us to train harder the next time he sees us." Sasuke said.
"You two have some bad luck." Tomoe said with a frown.
"We're almost here. Everyone get your IDs ready." Kakashi announced as they spotted the gate.
Upon arrival, they found Kotetsu and Izumo still setting up a more complicated path. Still, it was easy for anyone that has nothing to fear and has the proper documentation ready.
"Papers please." Kotetsu said while Izumo looked at a manual. Kakashi was the first to present his identification, "Hold up Kakashi, it says here you're behind on child support payments." He said.
"I did not consent to sleeping with that fox." Kakashi replied in a tired voice.
Kotetsu shook his head, "I never took you for a crappy guy Kakashi. You used to be cool before you started abandoning kids." He said with disgust.
"I really don't need to hear it from you two. I can only imagine my own parents are annoyed of me too." Kakashi said, imagining his parents are ghosts who are shaking their heads at him right now.
Kotetsu grumbled as he let the man pass, "Papers please." he said as Mito came next. "So are those girls the Uchiha's harem or your brothers?" he asked.
"I'm not gonna answer that." Mito said with an annoyed expression.
Then an old man appeared, "Hello again friend." he said to Kotetsu.
"Damn it Jorgi! You better have a valid passport this time! Last time we caught you with illegal cabbages!" Kotetsu said angrily.
"I only come with avocados this time." Jorgi said.
Izumo suddenly slammed a button on the desk, "Detained!" He said as a pair of ANBU dragged Jorgi away.
Arashi shrugged off the scene, "That was weird." he said.
"Papers please." Kotetsu said.
Inside the village, a while later
At a certain area of the village, everyone was preparing for the wedding Vali had forced upon himself. With Konoha hosting and many of the locals working to make sure the event goes off without a hitch. Along with everyone making sure that the silver haired young man doesn't run away from his responsibilities. Of course, there is also the matter of Princess Kazumi's egg being kept secure.
It seems that Konoha has a lot to gain with recent events and a lot to lose should things become a mess. So it's best to make sure that a royal wedding from two unrelated nations hosted in their own homeland goes without incident.
"And where is that egg?" Kushina asked before watching several guards gently carrying Kazumi's egg. "I wonder how the princess herself is doing." she said.
"Hey kaa-chan!" Arashi said as he arrived with his sister.
"Oh, have you two just returned?" Kushina asked before interrupting their reply. "Good, now you two need to get dressed. We're having a wedding." she said.
"Eh?" The twins asked.
"There's an important wedding going on between your brother's closest friend and the princess of a foreign country. Now go wash up and ask questions later." Kushina said.
"Aren't you at least going to ask us about how our mission went?" Arahsi asked.
"Oh my babies. Are you hurt? Show mommy where it hurts!" Kushina said as she smothered them with kisses.
"Run away!" the twins yelled as they ran.
Kushina laughed, "The mama treatment always works." she said before continuing to set up.
A while later
With the events unfolding and everyone taking their seats. Naruto had to finish his important work early to help greet the guests. As he and Yasaka were more well acquainted with the foreign delegates. So it made the job less difficult on Minato who had to act like a friendly bridge for this ceremony since Vali is still being an immature idiot.
"Welcome King Hachijou, we are happy to have you in attendance and welcome you to the village." Yasaka said, greeting Kazumi's grandfather.
"A good day to celebrate a beautiful union and meet old friends, Empress. Though, I wish the circumstances were different in terms of a groom." Elder Hachijou said.
"While I wish we could say that Vali is who he makes himself out to be. That would mean we all fail to take responsibility in one way or another." Yasaka said to lighten up the mood.
The elder laughed, "Yes, good to see some individuals are competent. As well as good to see that others are open for peaceful events." he said as he met Minato's gaze. "I thank you for allowing this, Hokage-dono." he said.
"Likewise your majesty, though I would always prefer these events to fit my bureaucracy's schedule. Still, perhaps traditions must be broken in order to come together." Minato said smoothly.
"Good to know. I will greet my granddaughter before the ceremony begins. Now if you will excuse me." the elder said before leaving to find Kazumi.
"That went well." Minato said.
"He's not the only one you have to greet." Naruto said.
"I know." Minato said, sounding depressed. "Greetings!" he said as he faced another delegate with a bright smile.
"He'll be fine." Naruto said with Yasaka nodding in agreement. "Where are the children by the way?" he asked.
"Your mother is watching them. She also got them little outfits to look presentable." Yasaka said as she locked her arm around her husband's. "I could almost say the same to you." she said.
"I had a lot of work." Naruto replied.
"I know, but this weak transition between duties only proves your stress is rising." Yasaka points out.
The ceremony
The final guests had begun to take their seats. Naruto sat with his family including his son and daughters along with Ponta who's been hiding lately. Minato and Kushina sitting beside them with Arashi and Mito. Then there was Koyanskaya who for some reason appeared with the Raikage.
"What is she doing?" Naruto whispered.
"I never know, just be nice." Yasaka whispered back as she gave her half sister an awkward look.
Koyanska merely smiled as if this were natural. Meanwhile Naegi and Hinata curiously looked around while the mothers and sisterly types were gazing at the adorable children. Briefly ignoring their fox ears and tails, so far the village is aware that demi humans exist but it seems that Minato and those under him seem to be announcing details in short bits of information. The man was a bit too paranoid that people would freak out about another kyuubi attack when some people spotted Yasaka fighting the dragons.
Though it looked like anyone cared about the kitsune babies as Mei Terumi also arrived. Like the Raikage, she also appeared to continue an attempt at forming an alliance or peaceful pact. It was also a good way of making friends with the people of Long Zhi Guo. Though this resulted in a lot of men turning into wolfs and howling at her beauty.
"AROOO!"
*SLAP SLAP SLAP SLAP*
Momon also prepared an emergency squadron of elite slapping orcs. Like the ANBU, they had to work from the shadows and with no room for error. As they had to slap anyone who wanted to create an inappropriate scene. The sight of men gazing at the beautiful kage and making such noises fit under the description of their jobs.
"Thank you." said the collective mothers, wives, girlfriends and sisters of the men who made fools of themselves.
*SLAP*
This also included the females who are attracted to women of all kinds as well. At least the orcs don't discriminate.
With that out of the way, the ceremony began and everyone turned their heads back as the music played. Starting with Vali who was tied up in chains and being rolled up on the carpet leading to the priest. The man was being pushed by a pair of dwarves who made sure the chains were tight and that there was no room to run away. Vali only looked up with frown before glaring at Naruto during the brief glimpses he had of the yokai.
'Traitor.' Vali thought.
"Make sure he can't move, but don't cut off his blood flow." one dwarf said to the other.
Then it was time for the bride and everyone turned to see Kazumi wearing a beautiful wedding gown while her father lead her down the aisle. Though Kazumi did indeed look beautiful as well as elegant in her dress. Vali was not able to see anything since the dwarves made him face the ground when they stopped rolling him. Even now, the two short men never bothered to adjust him let alone notice his predicament.
"I can't see." Vali said, but was ignored.
The dwarves would only adjust him once the bride arrived. When she did, the two finally lifted up Vali's body just as a priest with ram horns spoke.
"Good afternoon everyone, I am Leonard and I will be ordaining this ceremony." The priest announced.
"There's a 500 in my pocket. It's yours if you annul this thing." Vali whispered.
Leonard ignored him, "Today, we are gathered here today in the union between Emperor Vali Lucifer of Makai and Crowned Princess Kazumi Hachijou of Long Zhi Guo, in holy matrimony and further unite the two lands. As well as thanking the village of Konohagakure for working as the venue." he announced.
Leonard continued to give his ceremonies words of marriage and the meaning behind the meaning of the union. While ignoring any romantic terms and instead, keeping it professional. As any form of romance was thrown out of the door. With Vali silently trying to think of a way to escape his predicament or hoping someone saves him like they do in those movies where someone objects.
Unknown to most people, it's not actually legal to object a wedding just because someone else is in love with the bride or groom. It's also not allowed if the relatives just doesn't like either the bride or groom in most cases. It really depends by location and sometimes tradition, but really movie tropes do not work in real life law. Especially one where being neutered is part of the punishment for child and spouse abandonment.
'Maybe Arachne will appear or maybe some eagles will ruin the wedding.' Vali hoped before being hit by an arrow. "OW!" he yelled.
Leonard stopped his speech and saw the wound, "Should we stop and have someone pull that out?" he asked.
"Keep going, he's a man." Kazumi said.
"Very well, now where was I?" Leonard asked before finding his place in the book.
Kazumi's father and grandfather looked around to see where that stray arrow came from. Only to find it coming from one of the security archers who got a bit trigger happy. However, that wouldn't be their concern for too long as they heard some cracking.
"Is someone eating, Lao?" Elder Hachijou asked his son.
Lao looked around, "It would be too difficult to say." he replied before hearing more cracking. "But it's nearby." he said before noticing Kazumi's egg.
The egg started to tilt slightly as cracks started to appear. Lao's father noticed this and stroked his beard as he realized his great grandchild was about to be born at any moment. The elder men assumed it to be a sign from the heavens themselves for this union to finish up.
"And do you Princess Kazumi, take Vali to be your lawfully wedded husband?" Leonard asked.
"I do." Kazumi answered.
"I'm not going to ask for your consent." Leonard told Vali.
"You are a biased priest!" Vali exclaimed.
"I'm not the one needing to be chained up. Anyhow, by the power invested in me and everyone here acting as witness, I name you both Husband and Wife!" he announced as the guests clapped.
As the noises became louder, no one noticed the egg throbbing violently as pieces of the egg's shell began to break off. Kazumi started to notice it only after her father called for Dr. Red who started surrounding the egg with his nurses. Before an infant boy with dark hair came breaking out of the egg. Vali noticed the moment his son being born and immediately cried.
Not from happiness like a proud father, but from the fact that his life as a bachelor is over.
Naruto then walked up to Vali and gave him a gold coin, "You can have this as a gift to enjoy for personal expenses." he said as he put the coin into Vali's breast pocket.
"Wait, if I'm married to a crown princess. Won't that effect our whole government system?" Vali asked as his rank still has a lot work behind it.
"We're working on contingency plans. Besides, Kazumi will not become queen right away." Naruto informed him. "Happy marriage and congratulations on the child." he said before walking towards his own family.
"I hate my life." Vali said, surprising the elf as a result.
The reception
There was a reception as to commemorate the union. Of course, there was the a lot of security once again but there was no point in Vali trying to run away. That didn't mean everyone else could not try and enjoy themselves. Some people were trying too hard to enjoy themselves.
"Dance with me sochi!" Kushina said as she dragged Naruto into the dance floor.
"Kaa-sama!" Naruto said as he was dragged around.
"Come on, where's that energy! Don't say in bed with Yasaka-chan!" Kushina said.
Yasaka smiled at her mother-in-law's antics, "You're going to be dancing with me like that someday Ichigo." she told her baby son.
"Ah." Kairi said.
"You too dear." Yasaka said.
Speaking of babies, Princess Kazumi was given the good news about her newborn as well.
"The boy will grow up to be a big healthy young man." Dr. Red said. "Can't say much about the father. Emperor Vali is the NEGLECTFUL type." he said.
"Yes, thank you doctor. Please take home some food and enjoy yourself." Kazumi said with gratitude in her voice.
"Thank you your highness." Dr. Red said with a bow. He then blew into his fingers like a whistle, "You hear that ladies? start raiding the shrimp!" he commanded as his nurses, Elizabeth, Margaret and Ekaterina to steal some shrimp from the crafts table.
"That man is a competent doctor?" Kazumi's father, Lao, asked.
"Yes, his family is quite educated as they have many high pay jobs from what I am told." Kazumi answered.
"The boy does look healthy. Have you considered a name?" Lao asked.
Before Kazumi said anything, the baby dragonoid let out a burp. Resulting in a stream of blue flames escaping his mouth and burning a few of the guests. Along with lightning Asuma's cigarette just as he was about to smoke.
"Does this count as eco friendly?" Asuma asked as he pointed the left over flames.
Rem and Ram arrived to put out the small fires as well as cleaning up the ashes left behind. This included Tohru chasing around the individuals who caught on fire and proceeded to run outside of the reception.
"I've been feeling partial to the name, Jake. Like a shortened version of the name Jacob." Kazumi said.
"Jake Hachijou of Long Zhi Guo it is." Lao said.
"Jake Long?" Kazumi murmured to herself.
A kind strange nickname to think about. For now, Kazumi's only real concerns were her son and her people and maybe Vali too. She'll have to work out the politics behind this marriage and the potential changes that will occur in Makai. There's also the schmoozing that is going on in the background. Including the Mizukage who seemingly allured man men without effort or intention on her part.
With The Heroes
After finishing up their mini vacation and heading to a new town a few days ago, Naofumi already started packing up his new wagon and getting ready for the Spirit Tortoise that the queen mentioned. When he was approached by Raphtalia who looked quite excited.
"Why do you look so happy?" Naofumi asked, looking curiously at the tanuki girl.
"Master Naofumi, I know you don't want to hear this, but I think we found new party members we can trust." Raphtalia said.
Naofumi frowned, "I can barely stand Seiya and he's not my enemy." he said.
"But Filo and I interviewed them and everything. They're honest people!" Raphtalia said.
Naofumi sighed, "You sure know how to give a parent grief." he said, still seeing Raphtalia as his child.
Like a child, Raphtalia pouted as she tried to give Naofumi an angry look. Anyone could say whatever messed up thing they want about the Shield Hero. Except not many of his haters would know or accept the fact that he doesn't see Raphtalia in a romantic light. At least not right now, that and aging in these worlds is ambiguous.
'Wait, could demi-humans grow to be as old as Yoda?' Naofumi wondered. "Look, I'll take a look at these guys and decide." he said.
"Really?" Raphtalia asked, looking happy again.
"Yes really, now go fetch them. We have to leave soon." Naofumi said.
"Right!" Raphtalia said as she quickly ran to locate the potential recruits.
Raphtalia came back a couple of minutes later with a unique group of individuals. One of them was a man that was slightly older than Naofumi, a blond girl, a younger boy with white hair and a cat girl who Naofumi assumed to be a demi human. Naofumi gave them a quick look and saw honest faces and friendly smiles. It made him slightly angry as he really didn't want to think about "Myne", then again Naofumi still thinks Malty is still in prison in Konoha and awaiting to be extradited the queen's guards.
"Okay, who are you and what's your motivation?" Naofumi asked.
The older man extended his hand, "I'm Gideon and this is Rizlet." he said.
"Just call me Rit!" Rit said enthusiastically as Gideon shook Naofumi's hand.
"Anyways, we're both adventurers with Rit here being a swordswoman and I'm stuck with a traveling guide skill." Gideon said.
"What do you mean you're stuck with it? What are you exactly?" Naofumi asked him.
Rit spoke up, "Its his divine blessing! Blessing of the Guide!" she said.
"Divine Blessing?" Naofumi asked.
"It basically gave me survival skills for the wild and helped me learn a lot of basic skills. Though I'm pretty weak compared to an experienced knight. I think your tanuki friend could beat me in a serious fight." Gideon said sheepishly. "Oh and I'm a pretty good scout and skills in medicine." he said.
"I could use an extra pair of hands in support. I guess I'll trust you for now." Naofumi said.
"Sweet! Let's go Gideon!" Rit said as they approached the wagon.
Naofumi sighed before looking at the younger boy, "What about you two?" he asked.
The cat girl spoke up first, "I'm Kanade and this is Rein, he's a Beast Tamer. He also knows a lot of stuff about forests and uh… stuff! Show him Rein!" Kanade said.
Rein nodded, "Okay, let me see." he said as he looked around.
Naofumi stared at Rein with a bored expression before noticing him the boy generated magic seals around a flock of birds. Rein then started to somehow command the avians to move around on his command. Before ordering them to land all around him.
"I can make contracts with animals. They can help us out with scouting ahead and even supporting us since they share the knowledge of their skills." Rein said.
"And if he makes a contract with an Ultimate Species like me, he gets to share my abilities." Kanade added.
"What can you do?" Naofumi asked.
"I'm pretty tough, just look." Kanade said before destroying a large rock with a heavy kick. "So, are we in?" he asked.
Naofumi sighed, "Might as well." he said.
"Thanks Naofumi-san, you won't regret it." Rein said as he rapidly shook his hand.
"Yeah yeah, just try to find a seat. We got a long road ahead of us." Naofumi said.
Just as the new party members were about to go inside of the wagon. A penguin jumped out and started Rit.
"Fwap." the penguin said.
"What the? What creature is that?" Rit asked.
"Rit, have you never seen a penguin before?" Gideon asked.
The penguin focused it's gaze on Naofumi and presented an amulet, "Fwap." it said.
"I don't want to buy anything." Naofumi said. The penguin urged him to take it, "That thing is cursed, isn't it?" he asked.
Rein tried to step in to mediate, "Hey little guy, I think what my friend is string to say is…"
The penguin hissed at the beast tamer, causing Rein to jump back. The penguin eventually forced Naofumi to take the amulet before suddenly disappearing from existence.
"I don't trust that penguin." Naofumi said.
"Good, we're on the same page." Seiya said as he suddenly came out.
"I'm back master!" Filo said as she also arrived.
Naofumi sighed, "Okay, this is going to be a pain." he said. "Everyone get acquainted and then get onboard." he said as he studied the amulet.
Sieya already made a poor impression, "I'm guessing you see girl as your daughter." he said to Rein.
"EH?" Kanade asked.
"Well, Kanade taught me a lot but I can't help but feel like I'm not doing my best to protect her. If I am a parent, I'm doing a bad job at it." Rein said with a sad sigh.
"Did you just daughter zone me!?" Kanade asked.
"Welcome to the club." Raphtalia said.
"And I'm a pet!" Filo said.
Rit felt uncomfortable, "Gideon, you better not call me your daughter or your pet." she said.
"I wasn't." Gideon said.
Naofumi took his seat at the front, "What did that penguin give me?" he asked as he studied the amulet. "I hate sounding like Seiya, but I really don't trust this thing enough to not be cursed." he said.
"Has anyone seen my baggage handlers?" Seiya asked as he referred to Mash and Elulu.
Meanwhile, in Melromarc
The Gunter army was helping establish law and order under the command of Queen Mirellia. Now the traitors and conspirators were being forced into harsh labor to help rebuild the kingdom after the backlash they received. At least the citizens seem fine, especially after being informed of recent events. Regardless of individual opinions on the political issues as of late, everyone decided to continue their daily obligations as they tried to ignore the penguin army that had arrived to watch over them.
"Fwap." said a Gunter clone who followed a trio of prisoners.
"You can mock me, demean me, but you can never break me." one of them said.
The clone proceeded to throw a glass bottle at his head, "Fwap." it said.
All around, many were afraid of the many penguins that were around, but a few others just tried to ignore them. Seeing as none of them react to the locals unless they did something worth their attention. Including some loose robberies and random acts of violence among the crowds. Despite their need for violence and hostility, the penguins seemed to help the understaffed guards of the capital.
Just as they were assisting a strange white haired girl with red eyes.
"Spirit of the White North, I ask for an audience with your monarch." The girl said to a clone.
"Fwap?" the clone said.
"It is with great importance that I speak with the current monarch." the girl said.
"Fwap." the clone replied.
"If you must know, I am Fitoria of the Filolials." Fitoria said introducing herself.
"Fwap." the clone said.
"You are the one who asked." Fitoria replied.
"Fwap. Fwap, fwap."
"I bear no ill will, but only ask for cooperation." Fitoria answered.
The penguin clone looked contemplative, "Fwap. Fwap." It said as it gestured for her to follow it.
Back in Konoha
Vali sighed as he looked out into the night sky and stared at the stars. All the while holding a drink in one hand and Naruto's gold coin in the other.
"At least this specific coin is worth a lot." Vali said before downing his drink. "Still, maybe I'm in the wrong. The last thing I want is for that kid to be screwed over like me." he said as he thought about his own childhood.
Coming from a high ranking family of devils wasn't a good thing for Vali. His mother dying at a young age and his father being abusive in order to feel some level of control and superiority. Vali didn't enjoy his life until he met Adrian and Naruto one day and even though Momon is mean. She gave him some level of familial love. Too bad the bastard of a father Vali had was killed by his grandfather before Momon met him.
It was a weird story, but it seems like Vali's family line were just weaklings with a lot of knowledge and skills. Vali's grandfather, Rizevim, didn't even directly kill his own son directly. He ordered it sure, but Rizevim is weak and very bad at direct confrontation unless some cheap tricks or fancy tools were involved. He had a strong mind and his leadership skills are what made Rizevim dangerous before his own demise came. The only other family Vali had to look out for him for most of his younger years is Azazel.
"Where is that old crow anyways? Shouldn't he be supporting his son?" Vali asked as he looked around for Azazel. Vali sighed, "Oh well, to fatherhood. Maybe Naruto and Adrian will give me some advice. Those two know what they're doing and they married real babes." he said before feeling a tug on his pants.
Vali looked down and found Kuno holding out a small gift for him, "Congratulations Oji-san!" she said.
Vali smiled at the chibi kyuubi, "Thanks kid, at least you're nice to me." he said.
Kunou smiled, "Now you have a baby too and your baby will love you." she said.
"Ponta!" Ponta said in agreement as she jumped on Kunou's sholder.
"I think that kid is doomed when he learns who his father is." Vali said before hearing a loud burp. "Unless the kid burns the whole place down first." he said.
Kunou giggled before Vali took the gift, "I hope you like it Oji." she said before running back to her mother.
Vali snorted, "She's a good kid. You really are lucky Naruto." he said before gazing at the stars again. "Who knows, maybe I should try this again. Maybe I'll see that exotic dancer outfit again while I'm at it too." he said before heading back into the party.
TO BE CONTINUED…