AN: Okay, I forgot the fact that you can't post on the same chapter twice, so if you posted a review about your OC and wanted to review Chapter 10 do it here in Chapter 11, something like this.

Chapter 10: Nice chapter

Chapter 11: Good chapter

Chapter 11: Filo into the Big Wide World

Queen Mirellia is being attended to by two maids, helping with her extravagant dress. They're near a window where a Shadow is outside relaying reports to her. "So, what is the situation in the Capital?"

"Right now, recovering, the shinobis get them by surprise and really did some damage, despite numbering only a few hundreds against over three thousand they had inflicted massive amount of casualties while suffering none on their own."

"I see, the One Day War." Mirellia muses. For the first time since Aultcray took command of the Melromarc army her country suffered a massive defeat, this is something that envoys from other nations will gloat about and humiliate her with for days to come. It's a record breaker for sure as a war that ended on the same day it started will never happen again in the future.

"Word of the conflict is spreading fast; some even called it the One Hour War." The loyal Shadow stated who then chuckles. "The thing is it didn't even last an hour, not even half an hour, from Lady Mikoto's declaration to the king's surrender the approximate time of the entire conflict is seven minutes an forty-five seconds."

"What of the Shield Hero Naruto and his comrades, any word from Miss Kushina or Lord Jiraiya? And I would also like to know the progress of Anko's plan."

"Lady Kushina stated that they're doing well, they've been away when the envoys arrived." The Shadow reported. "As for the coming operation, Anko have already plan out every detail and it'll commence soon."

"That's good to hear; once that plan succeeds it'll be one less powerful supporter for the three Heroes church. With the added fact that they lost many of their best Shadows during that short battle it will be easy for ours to watch and control the situation in the Capital. As for Miss Anko she and her colleagues are free to use whatever methods they have to extract information from Rabier." She turns her gaze from the mirror to the window. "I want you to continue monitoring the Capital, oh and do deliver the broadcasting orb that contained my warning to him as well as a few letters that updates my previous edicts."

"As you command, my Queen." The Shadow takes the items from a fellow Shadow and vanishes from view.

Someone knocks three times on the door and enters the room, this person is a very young girl at the age of ten, blue hair and blue eyes, and wears royal attire. "You called for me, Mother?"

"Yes I did," Mirellia ushers her second child closer. "Listen well, Melty, I have a very important task for you…"

With Team Shield

"The Hokage is recalling almost everyone?" Kushina asked incredulously when she heard Mikoto's message from their top leader, only a day after the surprisingly short conflict with the Kingdom of Melromarc. They're in the Village of Lute, their temporary base of operations and renting out one of the vacant buildings. Present in the room are the two Legendary Sannins, all of the Clan Heads, and top ranking shinobis.

"Unfortunately it is," Jiraiya added. "The primary reason is that Orochimaru is on the move." Upon hearings that name everyone tense up, all are very familiar with the notorious traitor. "From my informants, his forces and loyal followers are gathering into a large army about fifteen thousand – probably more, a lot of suspicious activities near our borders."

Anko grits her teeth, she needs to finish the operation as soon as possible so she can come back and deal with her former sensei. She felt a sort of responsibility and was ready to use the Twin Snake Sacrifice.

Tsunade pipes in with her thoughts about her former teammate's motive. "The Chunin Exams is approaching, it is the time when many from around the Continent will have the right to either join the exams or watch the Finals. It is possible that he intends to strike during the event." (1)

"He actually approached the Kazekage in the hopes that he can be convince to turn against us." Some of the shinobi who heard this are nervous though Mikoto reassures them with good news. "Thankfully, Lord Rasa outright refused, he's not going to betray an ally and has informed us about this meeting, and is offering to send in multiple shinobi to assist us."

Everyone sigh a relief that Lord Rasa turned down the offer. Jiraiya adds some more info. "The Hokage fears not just a possible attack but the potential that this might escalate into a new Shinobi War, my spies reported that he also approached both the Raikage and the Tsuchikage. The Raikage refused citing that war is too costly and destructive, though the spy from the Stone Village is unable to confirm if the Tsuchikage agree or not."

Kushina narrows her eyes at the mention of the leader of the Hidden Cloud Village, a sentiment shared by Hiromi who voices her opinion. "Even if the Raikage decline the offer we should still keep our guard up and secure the borders along the Land of Hot Water. He might take advantage of this conflict and send in covert operatives in our country in the midst of it."

"I agree, "Kushina said. "His words cannot be taken at face value."

Everyone can sense the animosity from these two women and they don't blame them. Kushina was captured when she was a young genin by Cloud Shinobis, they were intending to use her special abilities in suppressing and restrain Tailed Beasts, and it is thanks to Minato that she was saved. And under the false guise of signing a peace the Head Ninja from Cloud Village infiltrated the Hyuga compound and was captured, revealing that he's intending to abduct either Hinata or Hanabi.

"You don't have worry," Jiraiya said. "We have the foresight to increase security within the country. I'll send word to Hiashi to double the guards at the compound."

"That begs the question, who will stay with Naruto to fight the Waves." Tsume said. "Now obviously, Kushina is a hundred percent staying here with Naruto, and I'm very certain that Kiba and Akamaru would like to fight alongside with you two as well."

"I guess it'll not hurt that Hinata would stay as well, as long as Hizashi, Kurenai, and Ko are here to keep an eye on her." Hiromi said, volunteering her daughter's guardian.

Shibi then speaks up "If my son wishes to stay to help his friends then I will allow it."

"Since Sasuke expressed desire to stay and fight these Wave monsters I will include Izumi to tag along."

Guy stands up to make a statement and suggestion. "I'm among the shinobi who will be leaving, is it alright that I let my students take my place?" He was facing Hiromi when he said this wanting to know her opinion.

"I don't see why not," Hiromi smiles as she turns to her brother-in-law. "I'm sure Hinata and Hizashi will be happy to see Neji after a long mission."

The granddaughter of the First Hokage pipes up. "Since Orochimaru is the immediate and greater threat I must leave and confront him if it comes to that."

"Right behind you, and it looks like I'm going to be very busy," Everyone looks at the Toad Sage. "I'm be going back and forth between our worlds maintaining spy networks, finding persons of interest, and solving the death of the previous Shield Hero."

"Don't overwork yourself to death now, Jiraiya." Tsunade turns to the redhead. "Even if the king was cowed and agreed into leaving Naruto alone the same can't be said with the cult, so don't let your guard down. If things go rough or nearing the Waves contact us and we'll be here."

"Thank you," Kushina nods. This leaves her, Naruto and his team, Team Eight, Team Guy in the future, Hizashi and Ko, Izumi Uchiha, and Taji, also there is three other Anbu operatives who will be spying on the Three Heroes. Anko and some of the Jonins and Anbu will be staying for a while until the end of her operation regarding one noble. Then she asks something from Jiraiya about an interesting matter. "By the way, you mentioned about the previous Shield Hero, what did you find out?"

"Beloukas had given me the relevant files regarding the people of interests." He lays down three thick files and one thin file on the table for them to read. "Despite being only four of them there is quite a lot to unpack here." He went on to explain more details about them. "The primary suspect would be an assassin for hire, there is no name, features are vague, and have an unusual habit ripping out his victim's heart and then consuming it."

Something about the last part clicks something inside Tsunade's head, childhood memories pops up of her grandfather and one particular story when she heard is what happened to an assassin who failed to kill the God of Shinobi and the cruel fate that awaits him. Instinct tells her that there is a connection here.

"Do you have any more information about him?" Kakashi asked, the more they about this person the better their countermeasure in case the king or the cult or any other hostile factions decide to use that assassin again.

"Unfortunately no," Jiraiya looks disappointed by the lack of info. "There are barely any relevant details about him at all. No history prior on his assassination mission, and after he killed the previous Shield Hero and took the money he vanished without a trace, there's been a few who are trying to find or contact him in the hopes of commissioning him for a high ranking assassination but no such luck for them."

"No doubt this man is very skilled in stealth and espionage if he was able to remain hidden and also hide his tracks and disappear." Shizune wonders what kind of training the assassin received.

"There is a possibility that by killing a Legendary Hero he received a massive monetary reward and have retired," Kurenai brought up her opinion. "It is very likely that's he's now content and living a simple life somewhere in the countryside right now."

"Still, we shouldn't let our guard down. Keep on high alert and be suspicious of any hostile activity." Kakashi said. It'll be easy as there are multiple Hyuga who can watch and catch any enemy Shadow in the act.

Hiromi then asks. "Lord Jiraiya, what about the other three, what is their involvement?"

"Potential employers," The Toad Sage answered, explaining more. "Whoever hired him had covered their involvement very well. The first is the head of the church of the Three Heroes' Shadows Scarlet Cross. It should be easy enough and if I did got him it'll be striking two birds with one stone, first is finding out if he's the one who gave the mission and the second is spilling out many plans the cult have."

Kushina reads the next file, one that is all about a Shusaku demi-human. Mikoto reads out a very interesting information with surprise. "It's a tradition that the Shield Hero to set up a harem and take as many wives and concubines as much possible. The High Priestess would either be the main wife, the low wives, or one of the concubines."

"Really now?" Kakashi is now interested with this fact.

"Ah, I wonder who the lucky girls who'll join his harem are?" Reisha asked.

"Man, Naruto is lucky." Genma commented.

"Every man's wet dream." Aoshi chuckles.

"Nice, will he dominate his harem or let his harem dominate him?" Anko teased.

Mikoto asks her friend with a teasing smile. "So, once the day comes when you two arrive at Siltvelt will you allow Naruto to take as many wives as he want?"

Kushina looks disgusted. "Over my dead body will I let it happen; I don't want my little Naru to be pressured into partaking in any vulgar custom that'll allow harpies to sink their claws into him and treat him as some kind of breeding bull, I don't care if I offend and disrespect their customs."

"As much as it pains me to say this but I agree with you there." Jiraiya said which surprise many who know his eccentric perverted personality very well. "The Shield Hero before the previous one had participated in this and gained himself a harem, dream come true but the downside is something that'll make you doubt the whole thing; see, there is a lot of backstabbing, many of those wives and concubines belongs to prominent nobles and influential families, and they would often compete against each other in who would be the best wife, the best lover, or the best child bearer. It even reached to the point of becoming deadly; Genna from the Genmu, Wyla from the Shusaku, Rhaella from the Aotatsu, and a few others all end up dead in suspicious circumstances. As a responsible Godfather I don't want Naruto to be place in a difficult and compromising situation like that."

Tsunade looks at her teammate with an impress and surprise look, she was expecting that he would be pushing for his godson to go to Siltvelt and create his own harem, guess the so called "Super Pervert" and "Pervy Sage" will not allow his perversion cloud his critical thinking nor let it get in the way of protecting others and ensuring their safety. Perhaps she'll give him a chance and date him in the future like he always wanted.

"It makes me think that is the reason why the previous Shield Hero Homura Shirono decided to have only one wife and gain permanent residence in Shieldfreeden." Jiraiya shakes his head, as much as he likes to have a harem the biggest problem will be envy and jealousy. Then he continues on with the next points. "Now this brings us to the next potential employers: Wilhelma and Jaralis. The former as you all now know is the High Priestess of the Church of the Shield Hero, her motive for wanting the Shield Hero dead is definitely him refusing her advances and engaging in their customs, revenge for this perceived insult."

"And what about this Jaralis fellow, what is his motive?" Guy asked.

"When the previous Shield Hero was summoned in Shieldfreeden many in SIltvelt are very pissy about it, wanting their god in the place where he truly belongs. What make Jaralis stand out from the rest is how he is willing to use shady tactics and underhanded means to get what he wants, seeing people as tools to be use and then dispose of. Perhaps the biggest controversy he was in is during the war between Siltvelt and Melromarc; he had fought alongside a colleague who is the son of Tyran Ga Fayon, and it's been said that he is very envious of him, rumours stated that he intentionally leaked sensitive military intelligence to the enemy just so his rival will die in battle."

The room erupts into murmurs; they as expected are quite appalled by the likes of Jaralis. Guy comments that this man is very unyouthful for such treachery. Kakashi have these words to live by "those who break the rules are trash, but those who abandon their comrades are worse than trash", worse this beastman had done this out of very selfish reason.

"Despite an appealing country to go to, looks like it made to my list of no visit." Kushina said. "And if in case we have to go either for diplomacy I'll bring in a lot of bodyguards."

"There's a lot of downside but there is also positives, overall there are many in Siltvelt country who will no doubt do everything to help Naruto out due to their religion, people with good intentions, and a good chance that they'll be friendly to Leaf shinobis. We just have to be on a look out for and avoid fanatics and cutthroat opportunists." Tsunade can see that there is a lot of perks in a country that worship you as a God, already they got in contact with Shadows belonging to that nation giving them plenty of information.

"She's right," Hiromi nods. "We shouldn't ignore them just because of some bad eggs."

The Waves will be everywhere and Siltvelt will definitely need a Hero, innocent lives are in stake. "If it comes to that then we must be on guard, and if there are any of their plans regarding my Naru it will have to go to me to see if it's good or not." She'll be okay if it's a meet-and-greet, charity work, maybe some minor religious rite.

After talking about Siltvelt Jiraiya then brings up another topic. "Before we wrap this up and go our merry way, I have another thing that needs your attention." He puts a container on the table for them to see, and they are quite puzzled. He then proceeds to explain what he got and challenge for Naruto and the rest of the team.


It's early in the morning; all of the genins are staring at an egg that was secured in a glass container. Kushina had told them about it and issued a test, the goal is a combination of protect and serve like a pack of wolves taking care of their own young while the others go on a hunt, they'll need to leave someone to take care of the egg. Now, they're just wondering what kind of creature will hatch out.

"So any idea to what it will be?" Naruto asked his friends.

"Beats me," Sasuke shrugs. "The old guy said it's completely random, he said we might be lucky to get a dragon."

Naruto then turns to Kiba. "You work with animals; you have any suggestions that can help us with this?"

"I only know dogs and cats, I don't know much about eggs much less a monster egg; the animal coming out is either something cold-blooded like a lizard or warm-blooded like a bird."

"There's a possibility that it'll be a giant insect." Shino said.

"Really, think we'll get a spider or scorpion?" Naruto wonders, though his teammate Sakura shudders at the thought of a giant spider.

"Hold on, Naruto, I'm very certain that neither of those are insects." Kiba turns to Shino to confirm this fact. Spending time with the Aburame boy Kiba learned a thing or two about the insect kingdom.

"Really now, why is that, aren't they all the same?" Raphtalia asked, she believes that spiders are the same thing with insects and other creatures with spindly legs as they're all creepy-crawlies.

Shino have the usual calm and indifferent expression but inwardly he's a little offended when someone remarks that insects are the same as spiders and scorpion, so Shino goes on to explains the differences between an arachnid and an insect.

Sakura holds the glass to feel its temperature. "It's very warm, probably a bird."

"You really think so?" Hinata also touches the glass and takes a closer look at the egg, petting Akamaru who is sitting next to it looking at it with curiosity. Then the little pup suddenly barks as if to tell them something. Instinctively Hinata looks at the egg and saw a crack. "It's cracking open, the egg is hatching!"

"Guys, come look at this," Sakura said gaining their attention.

All the genins look back on the egg with anticipation, all with last-minute guesses to what it is: Sasuke thinks it'll be a dragon, Shino guessed it be an insect, and Kiba think that it'll be something else entirely. The egg jerk and cracks and then burst open revealing a small pink chick chirping cutely.

"Awwww" Naruto, Kiba, and the girls cooed at the adorable little thing.

"Just a quick question, how do we know if it's a girl or boy?" Sasuke asked.

The group thinks about it for a moment until Hinata answers. "I believe it's a girl."

"How would you know?" Raphtalia asked.

The Hyuga Heiress looks at the chick with a somewhat knowing look. "J-just a guess, but I think I got it right."

Naruto carefully lift up the glass case to pet, after he did this the chick jumps high and lands on his spiky blond hair where it snuggles and nest, chirping happily. "Wow, she likes me already."

"Probably she imprints you as her mother," Kiba guessed then nudges Naruto on his shoulder. "So, what do you think of being called Mama Naru?"

"Hardy har har." Naruto crosses his arms in annoyance.

"I read that mother birds feed their chicks by regurgitating the stored food into the baby's mouth." Sasuke teased.

Though Naruto only reacts with confusion as he doesn't understand this particular word. "What's "regurgitating", is it some kind of fancy word for eating or something?"

"It's another word for vomiting, Doofus" The young Uchiha points his thumb at the ground. "So you better start digging and get some worms."

"EWW, GROSS!" Naruto blanched at the idea, cringing at how disgusting it is. "I'm not doing that, I know there are other ways to feed a chick."

Sasuke just shrugs as Kiba grins and the girls giggling.

Hinata and Sakura pet the chick on his head which it likes it very much. "So what is she anyway?" Sakura asked.

"It's a filolial," Raphtalia answered.

"A filola what now?" Kiba and the others turn to the demi-human.

"A filolial," Raphtalia points at a few giant birds at the distance. "Giant monster birds, they're mainly used to pull carts."

"Do they also eat them?" The chick filolial seems to understand and looks horrified, chirping loud and with a panicky tone.

"KIBA," Sakura punches the Inuzuka boy on the shoulder, reprimanding him. "Don't ask that, you just scared her!"

"Yeah, this chick is off the menu, and I'm not changing that fact." Naruto feels like he wants to add another punch on his shoulder.

"Sure thing," Wanting to avoid getting lambasted further Kiba quickly changes the subject. "So what's going to be her name? You're the mother."

Naruto is annoyed and hopes that these gags of him being a mother bird phase out quick. Though with the question he thinks deeply, he wants a good name, a fine name, a name synonymous with the word strong. "I got one, Filo, her name will be Filo."

Everyone is floored by the very unoriginal name that Naruto give to his new pet. It is similar to naming your dog "Dog" or a cat "Feline". Sasuke is the first to comment. "Really Naruto, Filo, is that the only thing you can come up with?"

"Hey, I don't see you think of a better name!" Naruto retorted but his argument is a little weak as Sasuke and the others can definitely come up with a better name. Filo however chirps happily which Naruto takes as acceptance. "See, she likes it."

"Whatever you say." Sasuke just shrugs.

"I think Filo is a beautiful name." Hinata commented as she pets the chick who chirps in agreement.

Raphtalia adds to the compliment. "It's not so bad, I really like it."

"Now that we got the name solved, what should we do now?" The blond boy asked.

"Obviously, tell Miss Kushina about it," Sasuke explained. "Then we'll go in mission as usual under supervision."

And so, the genins all head back to Kushina, there she reveals the purpose and reason why they obtained a pet. The reason is to see if a Hero raising a monster result in that said creature being will evolve into a rare and powerful stage. One shining example is the legendary Queen of the Filolials Fitoria. Some concerns are brought that is would Filo turn on them if she became very strong? Though Kushina assures them that as long as they give Filo love, care, and some discipline she'll grow to be very loyal.

Before going on a mission they treat Filo on her very first meal inside an inn; they're deciding which best food to serve for the newly hatched chick, Sasuke again teasingly suggest that Naruto should just dig up some worms to feed Filo via regurgitation to which Naruto vehemently objects. Hinata suggests some crushed corn, Sakura suggests some bread, Kiba said maybe Filo would like some meat; the group is debating until a man who works at a nearby stable gives his advice, it is best that filolial chicks are fed warm bean paste and when they are fully grown into adults they can eat anything.

Then they are off, first mission they go is a search and destroy mission which is to eliminate small pockets of zombies that was summoned by the Waves. Then another search and destroy mission that involves a massive hive of the Inter-Dimensional Locusts, Sasuke just uses the Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu to incinerate the hive while Shino sends thousands of Kikaichu Beetles to terminate any surviving stragglers. After that they kill the time by fighting a group of giant porcupine monsters for the extra experience. All of that and Filo is growing into a bigger chick.

By noon they have lunch, eating and relaxing though Naruto, Hinata, and Sakura are a little frantic as Filo despite still being a chick is eating bowl after bowl of bean paste, finishing all what they brought. Then comes more afternoon missions, hunting missions, going after very specific monsters that'll drop valuable items that the quest givers ask for: scales from Iron Lizards, vials of venom acquired from a Giant Spider, teeth and hide from Mountain Cougars.

When the sun is starting to set they relax at the same inn, after a busy day is when they realize that Filo grown much so much, thrice the size.

On the second day at the afternoon, after a morning doing quests and mission they gather at an open clearing. The grownups observe Filo with amazement.

"That chick sure grows up very fast." Kakashi commented.

"It still amazes that they can grow and mature swiftly base on levelling up." Kurenai is astonished by the accelerated growth rate, with such a unique innate ability you can easily raise an army, but she is also considers the moral dilemma, if a demi-human child is raise this way they'll never experience the joys of childhood.

Kushina is close supervising the genins. "Be careful now; try to get on slowly, okay."

"I'm not going to get hurt, I trust Filo." Naruto is getting on top and ride the giant bird.

"Just to warn you, filolials are very very-" Raphtalia didn't get to finish as the giant fowl and her blond rider sped off without a hitch, Naruto screaming at the sudden boost of speed. "-Very fast…"

"Wow," Kiba whistles. "Look at her go." His canine partner barks in agreement.

"I guess it is only natural," Shino commented as he explains a few fowl in their world. "Filolials no doubt shares a lot of similarities to ostriches, both are flightless, big, and can run very fast."

"I-Is Naruto going to be alright?" Hinata is very concern for his wellbeing, fearing that he might snap his neck or something.

Kushina is worried but seeing that Naruto quickly got use to it and is now enjoying the ride she relaxes herself, though ready to act if something went wrong. "Naruto seems to be fine."

After ten minutes of running Filo comes to a halt near the group. Naruto climbs down with a dizzy head and almost losing his balance. "Man that was awesome."

Suddenly Hizashi appears at Kushina's side with a report to tell. "Just a heads up, I spotted the Spear Hero, the princess and her lackeys are heading to Lute."

Everyone became serious after hearing this. Kakashi is the one to ask. "Any idea what are their plans?"

"Don't know, though I know its bad news."

"Whatever it is we should head there and see what they do." Kushina said.

"If a fight breaks out I like to face that Spear Hero one on one." Sasuke had been sparring with Naruto as training since he came here, and now wanted to try his skills against another Hero, even if this Hero got his ass handed to him Tsunade.

Izumi is quick to softly scold him. "Now don't go being so reckless, okay, your mother will be furious with me if something bad happen to you." She pats his head.

"Hey, I can take care of myself." Sasuke blushes like an embarrass kid he is, though he's not really complaining at the protectiveness of his sister-figure.

Back at Lute

With all of the damages on every buildings fixed and no fatalities sustained in the Waves the villagers going on with their daily activities like nothing bad had happened. Initially their views on the Shield Hero is neutral no goo nor ill thoughts on him, but that all change during the Waves when Naruto and his friends went out of their way to help as many people as they could and eradicate every monster in the area, they greatly respect him for his courage and become very friendly with the Leaf Shinobis; another interesting point is that many of the young boys and girls aspire to be like Tsunade, seeing her destroy monsters and defeat the Spear Hero during the duel with nothing but her bare hands and feet sure give them the inspiration to train and become strong like her.

Unfortunately, it seems a certain someone will ruin their day. Many of the villagers gathered around the princess who has an announcement to make and showing a scroll that list an official sign. "To reward the Spear Hero Motoyasu Kitamura for his glorious exploits during the Waves of Calamity his Royal Majesty King Aultcray has graciously rewarded him lordship over this land."

Motoyasu steps forward to happily introduce himself to them. "Hello, nice to meet you all, as you already know I'm Motoyasu Kitamura, and I'm happy to be your Lord."

Then Malty continues on, declaring a new edict. "And now, to help with the reconstruction effort we shall impose a tool of fifty silvers upon entering and leaving this village."

The princess's declaration is met with outrage from the people.

"A gold coin in total, you got to be kidding!"

"We can't survive that way!"

"You'll impoverish us!"

"You'll ruin us!"

Motoyasu knows fighting and have a general knowledge of video games but he is absolutely clueless when it comes to economics. "Why are you all making this into a big deal, it's all for the sake of reconstruction and rebuilding your homes." He is rebuke with more angered shouting, he has no understanding in how devastating that toll is to their lives and is seemingly uncaring to their plight.

"HEY, SPEAR DORK," All turns their attention to the source of that very loud shout, seeing the Shield Hero and his companions just entering the village. "Do know how much it is to spend a night in an inn here?"

"What, I – Uh – " Motoyasu didn't really think much when it came to how much to spend, mostly the ones who deal with it are Malty and Elena.

"Well I'm surprise you don't know," Naruto said. "The cost would be one silver coin, and that includes meals. You're basically charging a hundred inn stays just to come and go, are you not that good in basic math?"

"Seriously, I may not know a lot about economics but even a kid knows a fifty silver toll is excessive!" Sakura commented.

"What's more," Sasuke started. "At most a villager can spend twenty coppers a day, but I see that they're mostly frugal meaning it'll be less or they may not spend anything at all and saving it for future spending or retirement."

Shino then steps forward with a simple question, his voice is low but it is loud enough for them to hear. "Here's a better question, how long will this edict last? Will it be a few days, weeks, months, will it go over a year, will it reach a decade, or may stay indefinite? Either way even it is for a few days this village will suffer and enters destitution by just how punishing this toll is."

"But-but-but- but it is all necessary for the reconstruction effort, I can assure you all." Motoyasu looks at the red head Uzumaki hoping that she agrees. "Kushina, you agree with me, right?"

"You are one clueless moron aren't you? Why should I agree when you are completely ignorant to a blatant extortion" Kushina words really hurt his feelings and she didn't care one bit. "Look around, is this village in a state of disrepair, do these people need your help and your stupid toll? I'll give you a short answer, no."

This further riles the crowd up angrily shouting at the Spear Hero and princess.

"Yeah, we don't need to pay when there is nothing to fix!"

"You're just going to bleed us dry!"

"Why is the Spear Hero even granted lordship over us? He did absolutely nothing to help us!"

"Yeah, the only Hero who helped us is the Shield Hero and his friends!"

Malty on the other hand is had enough with the peasants' complaint. "If you all dare go against a Royal Decree, then I declare you all traitors, rebels, and criminals that must be punish severely, Knights!"

The accompanying knights all point their spears at the crowd, intend to subdue them or eliminate if they resist. The villagers back away in fear by the knights' attack formation. Seeing trouble the shinobi decide to intervene on Lute's behalf and put a stop to Malty's schemes. But the commotion came to a stop when hooded and masked people appear before the princess.

"That's enough, Princess Malty…" One of them said, although they are kneeling the princess looks surprise and intimidated by their appearance. "I trust that you know well who our employer."

"W-What are you doing here?" Malty stammered.

"We have a letter for you."

Malty grabs the parchment and read it, all her haughty demeanour turns into annoyance and frustration.

"Who are those people in cloaks?" Raphtalia asked.

"No doubt they are Shadows…" Kakashi answered. "I… taken care of the hostile ones and form a cordial relationship with the friendlies."

"You think they're working for the Queen?" Hinata asked.

Kiba smirks enjoying that look of discomfort on that bratty princess's face. "Sure looks like it."

"During the brief conflict between us in their Capital, our allies made sure to target as many enemy Shadows as much as possible until the king surrendered." Kurenai was part of the attack, it was all planned out, when it comes to disposing of the hostile Shadows they have two methods for that: trap or hunt, the first a few shinobi will lie and wait for the Shadows to appear and fight their comrades and then strike; the latter is as the name suggest are groups who go on to track down and kill, many of them are members of the Uchiha and Hyuga Clans.

Kushina then adds. "And because of our effort it'll be very easy for the Queen's Shadows in maintaining a close surveillance on the capital and the surrounding area, and manipulate events from behind the curtains."

Malty growls at the contents of the letter, and then suddenly points her finger at Naruto. "Shield Hero, for the right to rule this village I challenge you!"

"What, a duel, is it you or that Spear Dork who is going to fight me." Naruto is surprise by the sudden proposal but is eager to fight. "That's fine by me!"

Minutes later

They're just outside of the village where they are preparing for the challenge, the shinobi initially believed that it'll be a duel like before, until Malty declare that this will be a racing game when she saw Naruto riding Filo.

"I'm… Not expecting this." Naruto pets Filo's head "I am really hoping that I get to fight that Spear Dork again, I was winning that duel until that bitchy princess got in the way."

"If you don't like a race maybe you shouldn't accept so suddenly." Sasuke pointed this out. "Or at least insist on fighting in a duel."

Hinata took notice of Filo openly glaring at Motoyasu, specifically his mount. "Though Filo looks like she wants this race to happen."

Naruto looks at Filo's heated glare. "Wow, you're right. Filo, are you okay?"

"I guess it's true that Filolials and Dragons don't get along with each other." Raphtalia commented. "Our grownups always make sure that the two species are separated to avoid any trouble."

While the genins talk to one another Kakashi went to asks Kushina something. "Say, I was wondering why didn't you stop this?"

"We can't just let that bratty princess get free reign in this village and bleeding it dry, I can't simply allow that," Kushina said. "But there is another reason, Jiraiya told me that a racing game can also increase the level of Filolial and have a chance to evolve her."

"Are you worried about the potential that Naruto and Filo might lose?"

"I'm very confident that they will win, Jiraiya added that Filolials are very fast runners. That is if princess decided to be mischievous in the race." She then whispers to him also making sure that Taji and Kurenai are within earshot. "When the race begins I want you three to patrol the track and take out anyone who tries to interfere, make the race fair."

"You can count on us." Taji said.

After petting his dragon mount Motoyasu went to Naruto to comment about his Filolial, he stops when he saw the new female faces in Naruto's group, the first is a girl about Hinata's age with pink hair and green eyes and wears a cute qipao dress, he did saw her during the party but didn't introduce himself due to the issue about Naruto's slave. The next young woman is the same one who accompanied Mikoto in the throne room, she beautiful as she is dangerous. The last one is also equally beautiful having long black untamed hair reaching her upper back, and very unique eyes that are red in colour, with an additional ring in them.

This is the perfect opportunity to get to know them and maybe woo them into joining him. "Hey there little cutie, I saw you at the party but I never got to talk to you, perhaps this will be the perfect time to know you."

"Sorry, I'm not interested; I already got a boy I like." Sakura quickly said as she hugs Sasuke's arm who blushes.

"I – well, that's too bad." The Spear Hero is disappointed but quickly got over it; there is other bigger fish as he made his way to the two ladies. "Hello there you two, I can't help but be so enamoured by your beauty, may I know your names?"

Kurenai is quick to dismiss him by waving him off and states. "I already have a boyfriend."

"No, I'm not looking for any romantic partners." Despite knowing the terrible deed and the sad reason behind it, and was told by Itachi to just forget him and find another man Izumi will continuously love him. "You should find someone else to flirt with."

"But it is a sad thing to see a young woman like you go on a lonely path. Here, let me sweep you off your feet and I'll take you in my adventure with my friends." He's to attract them with his manly charms; the Uchiha's response for this is flashing katana just an inch to his nose.

"Back off, skirt chaser," Izumi said with a very annoyed tone. "And learn to get a hint and take no for an answer."

"Yeah, you should run along and focus on this race." Kurenai said crossing her arms, unimpressed with the man's antics.

"You heard her, Spear Dork, focus." Kiba yelled earning himself an annoyed glare from the said dork.

"Good luck, Doofus, you're going to need it." Sasuke taunted, though Naruto can't tell if it's directed towards him or Motoyasu.

Motoyasu didn't like being called dork, doofus, or the Gullible Spear. He's going to show them who's superior, though at this time he'll demonstrated who has the best mount as he rides his dragon.

The riders position themselves at the starting line, ready for the go signal. Instead of the Mayor of the town it'll be the same Shadow who acted as referee for the duel, this of course angers the princess but there is nothing she can do. "The race will be three laps around the outskirts of the village, whoever reach the line first is the winner."

"Do your best, Sir Motoyasu!" Malty cheered.

The Spear Hero waves jovially at his battle harem who besides Rino all swoon at him, he turns to the women in Naruto's team and did the same but they completely ignore him, instead they're focusing on Naruto.

"Best of luck, Naruto," Kushina said. "I believe in you and Filo."

"You better not lose this one!" Sakura yelled.

"Don't worry, Filo will leave these two in the dust." Naruto then pets and speaks with his Filolial mount. "Remember, this town is depending on us, so run as fast as you can." Filo caws in agreement.

"On your mark… Get set… GO!"

On cue the Filolial and the Dragon sprint forward, and as expected Filo is the fastest and is already a good distance away from their opponent.

Malty and her entourage are quite shock and then she immediately whispers to her knights. As anticipated Kushina saw her and notify the others. "She's starting to become predictable, you all know what to do." Kakashi, Kurenai, and Taji nod and without a word vanish from sight.

Naruto and Filo are having a blast in this race, she is faster than no doubt fuelled by her rivalry with that dragon. "HA HA HA, Go, Filo, GO!"

Near the finish line, around the corner and somewhat remote there are two knights, the first one is one the lookout and immediately warns the other, the second then began chanting not noticing his fellow knight got pull to the bush. "As the source of thy power, I order thee to decipher the – what the…" A book is shove onto his face blocking his view entirely. "G-Get this book out of my face!" The book is lower and he turns to his left to reprimand the offender only to see a fist colliding with his face and the next thing he sees are black and stars.

Kakashi grabs the knight by the chainmail and throws him back deep into the woods behind them. The famous Copy Ninja leans on the tree and whistles, reading one of Jiraiya's masterpieces of a novel Make Out Paradise. Naruto and Filo went pass him without a hitch, and when Motoyasu's rushes by Kakashi vanish.

When the Shield Hero is first to finish the first lap the villagers and the shinobis cheer. Struggling behind is the Spear Hero who only got cheers from his party members. Malty is irk that Naruto got here first, wondering what are the first two knights doing, so she sent two more to both berate their failure and hinder the Shield Hero.

On the second circulation, two knights went to the same spot as the previous one, though the third go looking for the others while the fourth is preparing a debuffing spell. The third knight goes deep into the forest, and it didn't take long for him to find the other two who are all knocked out and just lying on the ground. "Hey, are you two alright?" He suddenly hears rustling of the leaves above him, looking up is when he saw a foot crashing down on his face.

The fourth knight saw the Shield Hero coming and is ready to cast a slowing spell. But before he can utter a single word the back end of a kunai hits him on the throat causing him to cough and staggers, and suddenly an arm wraps around his neck and a hand pushing his head forward effective caught in a sleeper hold, then he is drag swiftly out of view.

"I know what were you and your fellow mooks are doing, and you made a mistake in cheating for the Spear Hero."

These are the words the knight heard as he is losing conscious, seeing the Shield Hero zooming by followed by the Spear Hero. He tries to reach out but eventually ends up out cold.

Naruto and Filo have cross the line twice now and the crowd cheer louder.

"One lap left, don't screw this up, Naruto!" Sakura shouted.

"You can do it!" Hinata said.

"Don't let up, keep running, Filo!" Raphtalia cheers.

Motoyasu can't believe he is losing, he shouts at his dragon. "Faster damn it, go faster!"

"Why is that Shield Hero winning? What are those bozos doing?" Malty is very annoyed that nothing is done about the situation. "Give them a final blow; finish them off at the next corner!"

Seeing that brat for a princess panicking brings amusement for Kushina and the others. "Looks like they're doing a good job in keeping this race fair and square,"

Izumi who's Sharingan is now active agrees with her. "Yeah, just one more lap, and it seems that the princess is sending more knights to hinder Naruto."

"They're nothing against the best of the Leaf Village."

Five knights position themselves, two preparing spells and the other on the lookout ensuring that nothing happens to the casters. Hidden from their view is Kurenai observing them and is about to cast an illusion.

"This is just too easy." With a few hand seals she unleashes a genjutsu.

One of the lookouts warns the others about the approaching racers. "Here they are, get ready!"

"Wait, is the Spear Hero actually ahead?"

"Guess we don't need to cast anything."

"Doesn't matter, we have to make sure Lord Motoyasu wins and no chance at all for that Shield Demon."

When both Heroes are within range the knights cast their magic. "Earth Hole/ Fast Speed!" A deep wide hole appears and the hapless Shield Hero and his Filolial fell right into it, and with a speed boost Motoyasu and his dragon sprints faster than before.

"Ha, serves you right you useless Shield!"

"Victory goes to Lord Motoyasu today!"

The knights cheer as they wait for the brat to come of the hole wanting to taunt and jeer at him, but to the men's horror climbing out is none other than Motoyasu. "What the hell, where did this hole come from?" He complained as he got out and looks down wondering how he will get his mount out from this hole.

"L-L-Lord Motoyasu?" One of the knights asked.

Upon hearing them Motoyasu quickly asks for their assistance. "Can you guys please help me with my dragon?"

As the knights went to help their Hero one of them asks. "If this is Lord Motoyasu then who the heck did I give the Speed Boost to?"

Of course this question is quickly answered by the cruel realisation that dawn upon them, the Shield Hero got the speed boost and Motoyasu is the one who got dunk down into the hole. Though this adds to another question in their minds, how the hell did they screw up this badly and mistakes the Spear Hero for the Shield Hero and vice versa when it's clear as day?

Back at Naruto who is enjoying Filo's doubled effort in winning, when the line is within sights Naruto encourages her on. "This is the final lap, don't slow down now, this race is our!"

Malty couldn't believe that her minions completely failed to hinder the Shield Brat in any way. Wanting to deny him any victory Malty prepares to fire a spell. "If you want something done you got to do it yourself! As the source of thy power, I order thee to decipher the laws of nature and –" Unfortunately for her someone is a step ahead of her as bugs emerges from the ground beneath her and start swarming at her. "EEK, get these bugs off from me!"

The sight of the princess wilding flailing her arms with her teammates Elena and Lesty not wanting bugs all over them is a source of amusement for everyone. "Kikaichu Beetles, good foresight there, Shino."

"Thanks, Miss Kushina, I figured that princess might do something shameful like what happened in the duel."

With no more distraction and hindrance Naruto and Filo cross the line and finish the third and final lap. Everyone besides the Spear Heroes entourage cheer loudly.

"Race concluded," The acting referee is presents Naruto to the villagers. "As per agreement the title of Lord for Sir Motoyasu will be rescinded."

The mayor of the town who just learned of this a few minutes ago and witnessed the race halfway comes to congratulate the boy. "I am this village's elder, and I must say that won this race splendidly, Shield hero. You have saved us the prospect of hardship from an exorbitant toll, and for that we thank you."

"You're welcome, but most credit goes to Filo here, even without me she can easily win the race." Without warning Filo have a sudden change, after a brief glow she becomes bigger and rounder, two feathers on her head have elongate almost like an antennae, as well as developing some pink feathers. "Woah, cool!"

"W-What just happened to her?" Hinata points at the giant fowl with surprise.

"Maybe she evolved?" Sasuke suggested which is not far off.

"You guessed correctly, Sasuke," Kushina said. "Jiraiya stated that racing can also increase the chance of Filo evolving into the next form."

"You cheated," They turn to the princess who glares at Naruto pointing at him accusingly. "You didn't tell anyone that your filolial is really this big fat bird!"

The village elder is quick to defend the Shield Hero. "Pardon, princess Malty, but this Filolial just turn right after the race, so there is nothing wrong."

The Shadow then adds. "He's right; this Filolial didn't turn during the race so there is no foul play."

"Heard that, princess?" Sasuke taunts her. "No foul play, Naruto won fair and square."

"Yep, don't be a sore loser now, but I have to admit that I was expecting that you would be cheating like before. I Guess there is some good in you." Naruto said. This statement cause the shinobi to look at each other with a knowing smile as the orange jumpsuit wearing boy is completely oblivious to what happened near the tracks.

With every eyes looking down at her disdain Malty reluctantly backs down, turning to leave in humiliation but she shouts at them wanting to have the last words. "Enjoy your winnings you brat, but don't think for a moment that I'll take this lying down!" She stomps away leaving the shinobis to laugh.

Motoyasu arrive on foot feeling very frustrated, the knights tending to his dragon who suffers a broken leg, upon walking by Naruto he glares at him. "Remember this well, I let you win on purpose, but that won't happen next time, just you-"

Sakura suddenly talks loudly with a surprise look. "Hey, it's Lady Tsunade, she's back."

"Hey Auntie!" Naruto waves.

Upon hearing that woman's name, he is immediately filled terror remembering the clobbering he received from her. He turns to where the two genins are looking and squeal like a girl, only to reveal that she is not there at all. His reaction just causes a huge burst of laughter leaving him all embarrassed, he leaves quickly and accompany Malty.

Leaving the premise of the village Helena and Lesty walk with Motoyasu side by side, cheering him on as he's in a bad mood.

"Don't feel so bad, there always next time." Lest said hugging his arm.

"How about we visit a beachside town?" Helena suggested. "A friend of my father I have just finish building a beach inn, they have a lot of seafood specialty." A Hero visiting an establishment will be a good advertisement.

Their smile and cheery tone uplifts his mood as he puts his arms around them. "That's sounds like a great idea; I'll definitely need to relax after the Waves."

While the three are flirty Malty silently berates her knights. "What the hell happened? I thought I told you to obstruct the Shield Brat?"

"W-Well," One of the knights started. "We found the four knights who were supposed impede the Shield Hero on the first and second lap all knocked out unconscious in the woods."

"What! Then what about you five, how did you fail?"

They are nervous but one steels himself and answers truthfully. "We initially believe that we did succeed in sabotaging the Shield Hero with a large earth hole and bless the Spear Hero with a speed boost, but then it was revealed that it was Lord Motoyasu and his dragon mount are the one who fell in the hole."

Malty just looks at them with disbelief, are they blind to make such an egregious mistake? "Your mistake just caused Motoyasu his victory; are you blind, is the sun on your eyes or something?"

"I'm very, but thinking about it now we come to the conclusion that someone must have casted a powerful illusion on us."

"And a powerful one at that, we didn't feel nor sense it, we were completely unaware about this at all."

Hearing this Malty is hit with a realization, like a piece of floor hitting her breastplate in high speed. "This… is so much similar to Castle Town Murders." This statement surprises the knights. "Some of you might already know this but the King and I had plotted to trap that damn woman, apprehending her at the Church, only for the trap to fail leaving fifty dead and others missing, knocked out, or under an illusion."

"Are you saying that the Shield Hero's companions did all of that without leaving any traces of evidence?"

"Yes," Malty clenches her fists at this revelation. "I never understood how that bitch did it, but now seeing their friends it's all clear now. I need to tell Papa about this." She is hoping that they can accuse them or at least a few of the murders and incarcerate or execute them.

"Rino, good that your back!" Motoyasu waves at his other companion. "And who's this delightful lady with you?"

This caught Malty's attention as she focus on the newcomer.

"She's went up to me and asked if she can join our group?" Rino answered gesturing to the woman.

She is a beautiful young woman with long black hair, fair skin, and brown eyes; a curvaceous built, and a sweet and warm smile. She wears a dark purple shirt with the right sleeve being long and reaches her wrist and black shorts, brown gloves, brown knee high boots with greaves attached, for the upper armour she have an chainmail dress, and over it is a breastplate with pauldrons. Her armaments consist of a sword at her left hip and pouch containing her daggers and throwing knives at the right. She also have a satchel containing her other belongings. "Hello to you all, my name is Gisela Schneider, I'm very new to adventuring and I like my first journey to be with the Legendary Spear Hero, may I join you?" (2)

Being a skirt chaser Motoyasu quickly wraps his arm around her shoulders and turns on his manly charms. "Of course you can join my team, I would love that very much. I'm Motoyasu Kitamura; it is a pleasure to meet you, Gisela."

"A pleasure to meet you as well, Sir Motoyasu, and thank you so much for accepting me." When she spots the redhead approaching Gisela removes Motoyasu's arm and hastily bows. "Princess Malty, it is such an honour to be in your presence."

"The honour is mine," Malty said. She usually has a slight problem with other girls joining the party, but she is fine with it as long as Motoyasu is just focusing on her. "It always warms my heart to see a new face in our group."

"Thank you, your Highness; I will do my best in serving the Spear Hero."

Motoyasu wraps his arm around Gisela's shoulders again as he points her to his other companion. "I would also like to introduce you to my other teammates: Lesty and Helena. Say hi girls."

As Gisela is getting acquainted with the others the princess is observing the newcomer intently, the back of her head is screaming that there is something not right with this woman. She'll be observing her very close and try to see her true motives, if she has one that is.

Land of Wind, Kattara Oasis

This peculiar town used to be a small village were the only thing had going for them is the museum that house many artefacts from the ancient kingom of Amara and the clear waters of their oasis, but ever since the revival of the River Nailah this establishment has been flourishing into a bustling tourist centre; farmers and plantation owners selling their produce and livestock; inns, motels, and hotels; casinos and gambling halls to either waste or win money in. But what makes this town well known is that a vast majority of its inhabitants are very eccentric about Amara, almost all of them wear clothing reminiscing of the people of ancient times, clothing that expose too much of their skin, some even can be considered underwear or loincloth; many of the men and one third of the women are shirtless. There are some brothels and sex club in one part of town but to the outsiders the whole town is a giant red light district just by the attires alone.

Walking through the street are the three Sand Siblings: Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro, children of the Fourth Kazekage, and right now they're going to their employer to report of the success of their mission, and it was a simple recovery mission were they simply take down some grave robbers and return what they stolen which happens to be a giant coffin.

Temari looks to be both embarrassed and annoyed to be here. "I get that they like to honour our country's history but do they seriously have to be half naked all the time?"

"It is hot," Kankuro stated as he drool at the sight of some beautiful women who just let breasts hanging for all to see. "And they do seem to be very happy about it."

"More like an excuse to be shameless perverts." Temari replied. Her face turns red seeing a few well-endowed men who are wearing only a skirt tunic and a pair of sandals carrying bags and crates of crops and other goods.

Kankuro just laugh as he can tell that his sister is secretly enjoys looking at these boys and men. "Gaara, what about you, what do you think of all these?"

The youngest sibling smiles and shrugs. "My stance on their clothing is pretty neutral; if they want it then we should let them." The three stops at the entrance of the museum which started small at first but now it is larger. "We are here, let's go."

They went in the museum, greets with a sight of many antiques and artefacts and relics from a bygone era, even the staff here wears clothing from that times, the guards at the door are in a perfect imitation of an Amaran soldier, and the tour guides who are guiding visitors are mostly women wearing kalasiris dress. Temari is rather thankful that their dresses are opaque, which is a stark contrast to the ones outside which range from translucent to almost transparent. The only people that are in modern clothing would be the professors, the visitors, and a few museum staffs.

One of the guides spots the trio and then approaches them. "Hello, Professor Bunzo Teijiro is waiting for you three; I'll take you to him."

The trio follows the woman out of the main entrance and through the many exhibition halls, going to the second floor, more valuable relics and artefacts, a library, and then they reach the curator's office. They don't need to enter; Bunzo is outside talking with his fellow professors, archaeologists, and historians. Getting close is the siblings heard an interesting conversation. (3)

"Are you certain that the tomb we recently discovered is actually some sort of temple?"

"Yes, we are very certain, main proofs are the lack of coffins and funerary treasures."

"What's more is that we uncovered a library full of scrolls and writings on the walls."

"We decipher some of them and they reveal that the temple was used by the Court of Magic."

"A fine discovery, now we can know more about this mysterious order."

They stop their conversation when they notice the Sand Siblings.

Bunzo is quick to greet them with excitement. "Lord Gaara, it's good that you're here, have you recover her?" Straight to the point.

"I got her right here." Gaara nods as he hands out a storage scroll, unsealing it and with a puff of smoke a large sarcophagus appear on the floor. Bunzo and his colleagues circle around the coffin in excited. "As for the criminals, we handed them to the authorities."

"I never thought I would see her."

"I'm happy to see that she's unharmed."

"Look at these inscriptions Shapesh's Light, a spell to protect her in the afterlife."

"The resin that completely seals her coffin is undisturbed, remarkable."

Gaara and his siblings can only watch in amusement at these men who are way too happy to see a coffin and the corpse inside.

Snapping from his excitement Bunzo faces the red haired boy. "Thank you very much for returning her safe. As per agreement here is the reward for the mission."

Gaara receives the suitcase and he opens to check it, sure enough it's filled with money, though he thought that this is a little too excessive for a recovery mission, either way he'll accept this. "It is a pleasure doing business with you."

Out of curiosity Kankuro ask the old man. "Hey, prof, if you don't mind me asking, just who is this person inside that coffin, and why is she so important enough that you are willing to pay a huge sum?"

This question fills Bunzo with joy and he happily answers the son of the Kazekage. "You see, the mummy in this sarcophagus is the late Crowned Princess Menace, first daughter of King Set-Ra, Asaph's Incarnation, and the princess who met an untimely death." (4)

"Oh, so what makes her so famous?" Temari asked.

"Well, she was taught to rule by her father, she likes festivities, massages, hunting, training to fight, the multitude of orgies, but other than that nothing else." Bunzo admitted. "But what truly make her well known in the Amaratologists community are the events surrounding her death."

This pipe up their interest as they let the professor continues.

"You see, she had a very close friend Anarista, though some sources say they were lovers. They met in their early teens, and they grew up together, getting very close. Until one fateful day Anarista murdered the Princess in cold blood, she tried to escape but was hastily captured, under torture she was revealed to be a spy from the nation of Sadler which we now call the Land of Earth."

"What happened to Anarista, any punishment?" Gaara wants to know if justice is served.

"Oh they punish her alright, now instead of being hanged, or beheaded, or torn apart by animals, she was mummified alive." This sends chills down their spine. "They cut off her tongue and sewed her mouth shut, hammered a hot red iron stiletto into her nose to lobotomize her, wrapped her from head to toe in funeral bandages, lay her down in her coffin and pour a jar full of flesh scarabs in it!"

"Oh my god." Temari is quite horrified by the punishment; this method was very extreme and very disturbing.

"Flesh Scarabs," Kankuro shudders, he read about these ravenous beetles that can survive for years eating flesh and can literally get under your skin. "Am I glad they went extinct."

"And after that, they cursed her body and soul to be Princess Menace's slave in the afterlife for all eternity. Her sarcophagus buried deep beneath Menace's tomb."

"Man, to be buried alive with flesh eating scarabs slowly devouring you, what a way to go." Kankuro commented.

Temari also adds in her thought. "I know that she deserve punishment, but they really went overboard with this."

"I can't imagine the pain and horror that Anarista is feeling, granted she murdered the Princess, but still." Gaara close his eyes, but he immediately sense a familiar presence, he smiles as he turns to look at a young man who just appears. "Uncle Yashamaru, not expecting you here but I'm happy that you came."

The man smiles as his niece and nephews went to greet and hug him. "I'm happy to see you three, though I'm actually here to fetch you all, because Lord Kazekage want to have a talk with you." (5)

"Is it something urgent?" Temari asked. Yashamaru isn't just their uncle but he's also serving as their father's right-hand-man, for him to be here to get them means it must be very important. "Is there any big trouble?"

"Let's just say it involves about a certain friend of yours." Yashamaru gaze at Gaara.

Quickly realizing who he meant Gaara utters a name "Naruto?" his uncle nods. "Then let's not waste any time." Saying goodbye to the professor the four vanish from sight.

Chapter ends

AN: Finally, it's done! I was actually going to post this sooner, days ago, but I got really busy. Nonetheless I'm happy that I finish this chapter. Hope you guys find it good.

(1). The Chunin Exams event will end differently in this story, you guys have any suggestion for these?

(2). SPOILER ALERT, this character is Gazeru who'll spy on Motoyasu's team. Funny thing about Gazeru, her only appearance is in the manga were she accompanies Tsunade during Pein's attack, and in the anime she was replaced with Yugao Uzuki as they both have similar features. This leaves her character with a large empty slate, so feel free to give ideas and suggestion about her personality, abilities and skills.

(3). Bunzo Teijiro will be based on Terence Bey from The Mummy 1999

(4). I'm borrowing characters Menace and Anarista from Queen's Blade and the Nehekharan pantheon from Warhammer.

(5). Due to Gaara's childhood being different Yashamaru is alive in this story.

And now do enjoy the omakes

Omake 1

Motoyasu duels: Minato Namikaze

The two blond men face off against each other in the arena, Minato on one side and Motoyasu on the other. The Spear Hero waves at his companions and fans who all cheer and wish him luck, he looks at the young Shield Heroine expecting to the same, but Naruko is only cheering her father making Motoyasu very sad and disappointed.

Filled with conviction he points the Legendary Spear at his opponent. "If you don't want to be embarrassed in this fight I suggest that you give up now while you still have some dignity."

Minato just raises his one eyebrow. "It's too premature to just give up."

"You know, Minato, you're a damn coward to enslave those three girls and make them fight for you, I'm going to defeat you and punish you HARD!"

Minato just chuckles in amusement, clearly this Gullible Spear Hero will listen and believe everything that princess brat said, he definitely didn't know and probably won't believe that Raphtalia, Rifana, and Keel all want to fight. "Here's my advices for you, don't believe anything you hear unless with solid proof, and don't make bold statement like that if you can't back it up."

"YEAH, you tell him, Daddy!" Naruko cheered so loudly. "Show him who's the boss!"

Motoyasu grits his teeth as he readies to fight.

"The Duel between the Spear Hero and the Fourth Hokage will commence," With a moment of silence to see the readiness the referee shouts "Begin!"

ONE SECOND, Motoyasu charges forward with the intent to impale, but Minato took out his specialized kunai and then throws it.

TWO SECOND, Motoyasu barely dodges the kunai very surprise at how fast this travel, but suddenly he notice Minato is right behind him. The famous Yellow Flash karate chops Motoyasu on the neck knocking him out.

THREE SECOND, Motoyasu falls face first onto the floor, out cold and unmoving.

"Uhhh-" The referee didn't know what to do, the Spear Hero is unconscious and Minato is standing tall and proud. With no other choice he made his announcement. "The Spear Hero is unable to battle; the Fourth Hokage is the winner!"

There is silence as the audience process what just happened, then there is a loud laughter and it's coming from Naruko. "HAHAHAHAHA! What did I tell you, Daddy can beat you in just three seconds! HAHAHAHAHA!"

Raphtalia watched the duel with amazement. "I didn't even see him move."

Rifana replies to her friend. "Well, he is called the "Yellow Flash"."

Keel is happy that her father figure won. "He won without putting any effort! YAHOO!"

The shinobis cheer for their leader while some Melromarc watchers clap impress by the display of speed.

Omake ends

Omake 2

Motoyasu tries to flirt with: Kurenai

The sensei of Hinara, Kiba, and Shino made her way through the street, scouting ahead and on a look out for any enemy Shadows. An obstacle on her path happens when she bumps into the Spear Hero. "Oh, pardon me."

Before she can go she is grab by the arm. "What's the rush, is something the matter?"

"I'm a busy woman, I don't have time for luxuries." She tries to leave but this fool isn't letting go.

"Surely that can it wait? I want try to get to know you better," Motoyasu is now just flirting with her. "As you are one of the most beautiful I ever seen."

Kurenai is immediately turned on by his charms. "R-Really, you truly mean that?"

"Of course, perhaps even more beautiful than Malty and Lesty, please," He holds her by the hands. "Come with me on my adventures, and we'll spend a wonderful time together."

Kurenai looks so shy. "B-But this is so sudden, will there be some kissing?"

"Of course," He looks at her lovingly. "If you want we can do it right now…" He's leaning for a kiss, his lips nearing hers, closer, and closer, and closer…

In the real world the woman that Motoyasu is trying to kiss is some random woman on the street and she flailing wildly.

"STOP IT, Sir Motoyasu, I just told you that I'm MARRIED!" Seeing that he won't give up, she pulls back her fist and readies for a punch. "I said… I'm… MARRIED!" She strikes and it is hard sending him flying and crashing at one of the market stalls.

Not far is Kurenai chuckling at the scene. "Who knew manipulating Legendary Heroes with genjutsu is easy."

Omake ends