Chapter 6: New Plans and a New Pet
A mass is held within the confines of the cathedral; Biscas Balmus is giving a sermon about the venerated and powerful Three Heroes, the genesis of how the Heroes defend mankind from the savage horde of demi-humans and beastmen along with the corruption of the Shield Hero into the vile Shield Devil. Although the large hall is almost full there is a rising number were they are starting to doubt Naruto being the Shield Devil mostly because of traditional beliefs of Melromarc were children are incapable of doing evil and if they do the faults lie in their parents or guardians or other factors, they have a foreboding saying which states that "If a child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth". The clergy remedy this by stating that the Shield Devil will do evil once he reach maturity, when the attendees heard they could not agree nor disagree but all they can do is wait if it will actually come true.
Once the mass is over Biscas leaves the mass hall and went to the castle wishing to meet with the King, going through the corridor he is accompanied by close priests and high nuns, acolytes and lowly nuns made way for them and bow in respect, leaving the cathedral walking through the streets he began consulting with his inner circle. "Any news regarding the Shield Devil and is companions?"
A hooded figure steps forward, this person is a Shadow disguised as a priest a man dedicating himself to the High Priest and the Church, with a respectful bow he relays his report in a low whisper. "Unfortunately, your Holiness, keeping track with the Shield Demon's party is impossible, my subordinates are doing the best they can but the results we gain are just dead ends, not to mention that over two dozens of my best Shadows have gone missing or end up dead."
"Our Shadows lay dead, what injuries did they sustain?" A priest asked wanting to know more about the nature of their death and if it's connected with the Devil.
"Some had their throat slashed or slit, some are completely headless, some with broken neck, some died through multiple stab wounds, and there is one were his head is twisted all the way to the back like an owl."
A nun speaks up so suddenly with her conclusions. "So the Devil is not some helpless child like the masses believe, no doubt his childish front is just an act hiding a more sinister side."
A more logical nun quickly and simply refutes her. "You're forgetting about his mother, judging by what we seen during the trial she's a strong fighter killing or disarming the multiple knights, and from his reports we can easily conclude that that woman is a former Shadow, and a highly skilled one it seems."
"That is disturbing news; send more Shadows make sure that they're going in teams this time." Biscas ponders in what to do next, the Shield Devil have proven to be completely elusive, he fears on the kinds of diabolical plot he and his companions are formulating, worse is the fact that his mother is becoming a major hindrance to his plans regarding his son, she must be dispose of before she ruins everything. "Let us hope that the King's Shadows are doing a much better job than us."
He and his entourage walk through the castle halls, he knew that half of the knights guarding here are all secretly loyal and subservient to him, it took some time but his underlings have manage to work their way into the ranks of the Royal Knights even convincing some of them to join their cause, knights who are loyal and devoted to the Three Heroes has the church's rosary as a sign of their faithfulness, the church followers and the royalists may stand united against the common foes such as the demi-humans of Siltvet and the monstrous horde of the Waves but if it comes to allegiance and then there will be a rift, so far there were no disturbance among the armed men yet.
The group reach the throne room were the knights open it for them, Biscas instructs his followers to wait for him by the door as he went in, there he is greeted by the king. "Pope Balmus, a pleasure that you're here, is all well at the cathedral?"
"No trouble at all, my friend," Biscas assures him but decides to be a bit more truthful. "Even if the people attend the mass as usual there's been a growing doubt amongst the attendees, words of the Devil being completely harmless is circulating and whispers of the authenticity of our holy gospels is silently being questioned."
"All because that damn Shield is a child, surely they're aware that demons can change their appearance? Turn into a beautiful woman, or a family member, a close friend, or in this case a young boy." Although he is doing his duties as a King as normal there's a few whispers among the nobles questioning his ability to rule. Apparently he had broken a law, every accused have the right for a trial to prove his or her innocence and that particular law demands fairness and leniency if the accused is a minor, this means having neutral third party to act as judge, if necessary add a fourth and fifth party; and if the accused minor is found guilty then punishment will be pass to the parents in the form of fines, just fines, if the minor don't have a parent then a legal guardian, if the minor is orphaned then the orphan where he or she is registered to will receive the fines.
"Speaking of which, have you learn any news regarding the Shield Devil regarding his activities?" A simple question but Biscas guessed that the King's underlings don't have such luck like his.
Aultcray sighs in frustrating rubbing his left temple. "Unfortunately, we have no information about the Devil's whereabouts and what he's doing, as if he and his companions just vanish into thin air, every lead that my Shadows follows only resulted in a dead end."
"It's becoming very clear that the main problem is that damn woman," Malty reveals herself from the side line. "There's no possible way that two children can outwit and evade our Shadows, that bitch no doubt is an experienced spy or assassin if she able to hide herself and those two brats from us."
"Yes, that seems to be the case," Aultcray agrees with her daughter, then remembering the event during the trial shuddering at the memory of the woman who looked at him with cold contempt in her eyes. "Also add the fact that she possesses immense speed and skills with the sword."
Malty scoffs. "It is clear that she's becoming a threat to us, we need to get rid of her." She hated that woman not just because she humiliated her by exposing her lies but also slapped her hard during the trial, her cheek can feel the sting on her left cheek. What's more after that failed trial a very nasty rumor starting to pass around, it simply states that a rape did happen but she is the perpetrator and Naruto is the victim.
The Kings looks at his daughter with agreement but also concerns. "I agree but the problem is the fact we can't find them, I fear they might have already fled to Siltvelt."
"We don't have to worry much about them leaving the country, the border between us and those beasts are guarded by our best soldiers and diligently patrolled by our Shadows and scouts, besides we will definitely know as they'll throw parties and declare that the Devil is within their country." Balmus hoped that the existence of human slavery is enough for them to stay clear of Siltvelt.
"Plus, there's the fact of the Waves itself, as a Hero it is his duty to go face the monstrous horde whether he likes to or not," Malty turns to Balmus with a question in mind. "Had he synchronize with the Hourglass?"
"No he doesn't."
"That's good, we can use this to set a trap, have knights stationed in and around the cathedral, when the bitch and brats went in to register is where we'll pounce, mages casting magic that can seal off her powers and knights in great numbers charge in to apprehend her, and once she's captured we can brand her with the Slave Seal to fully subdue her, and when that's done she'll be brought here to convict her for the crime of assaulting the Princess of Melromarc and the Spear Hero not to mention dismembering or killing the Knights who surrounded her." The assault she's talking about was during the trial were Kushina slapped her on the face and punched Motoyasu in the gut, already she's almost drooling at the thought of breaking Kushina down into a pitiful whore once she's become a slave to the Royal Family.
Balmus thinks about the plan, even though Kushina's actions is well justified with the vast majority of people backing her for it just physically attacking the Princess and the Spear Hero is in fact a crime no matter how small it seems nor how much the people defend her, and once she's out of the way there's nothing stopping them in their plot against the Shield Devil. "That could work, risky but it'll be worth it."
The two turns to Aultcray awaiting his decision as well as a plan since he is a well know tactician and strategist. "Very well, I will not let this woman become a threat to my family, I'll send our best troops for this and I know the right mages for the job." And so the King began formulating a trap: utilizing his soldiers' abilities to best effect and planning every meticulous detail.
Unbeknownst to them someone is watching them closely listening in to their plans, Jiraiya had hidden himself very well by using the Transparent Escape Jutsu the one he created for the purpose of spying on naked women. Upon learning of the plot he is tempted to commit assassination against these fools, he made the right call to spy on them for any useful information, he's remembering the king's words well regarding the trap: the placement of the troops, disguising mages as priests, Magic Sealing spells, chains and shackles, and of course a simple magic ink for the Slave Seal; he have to admit that the King is really good with planning this out if his past history as a great military tactician is to be believe, in fact his military intellect could match that of Shikaku Nara, if only the king would let go of his grudge against the Shield Hero and learn to forgive and forget especially since he already avenged his murdered family. Out of curiosity he read about the history of the Three Heroes Church, the real history not the heavily tampered and twisted version usually preach by the church, he read the history books given to him by non-Melromarc Shadows and when he learned of their origins he is quite appalled and disgusted, never before has he come across a religion that was solely created out of bigotry and hate not to mention the attempted mass murder on the people who are simply different, a sect that preaches discrimination and prejudice, justifying every evil and atrocious acts against every demi-human and beastmen, painting the Shield Hero as the devil incarnate just because the previous Shield didn't agree to such a heinous plot and saved tens of thousands of lives, at that point he'll see to it that this religion fall and erase it from history for peace cannot be truly achieve in this land as long as this cult as well as the others who are just like this keeps on existing. When Aultcray finishes explaining the last details of the plot Jiraiya inconspicuously left the throne room, heading out back to Kushina and tells her of the king's plot.
Faubrey
Queen Mirellia took a nice long hot bath after another day of intense diplomacy, all world leaders are furious that Heroes yet again refused to meet up with the envoys, she knew that Aultcray or Malty or the pope is either manipulated them to refuse, outright barred the envoys from meeting them, or had people disguise as the Heroes. She's relieving her stress by taking this bath and also burning portraits of her foolish husband and conniving daughter. Envoys from Siltvelt and Shieldfreeden are demanding the whereabouts of the Shield Hero though she's aware that they knew where he is. Speaking of which her thoughts drifts to Naruto and his group, she was surprised to learn that they have the capabilities to summon their allies from their world, she's smiling at the news from her Shadows that they're killing off any Shadows loyal to her husband or the church effectively leaving them in the dark, as far as Aultcray and the cult know they still think they are still three when in fact it is much larger. All she is hoping now is either Kushina or Jiraiya make an appearance to her so she can work something out with them.
After what seems to be half an hour she get up from the tub then dries herself with a towel, wearing her bathrobe she went to her darkened guest chambers, sitting beside her bed she prepares to lay down until she felt a presence, turning to a corner she spots two silhouettes. "Identify yourselves." She demanded as she prepares to conjure ice needles in case of an assassination attempt.
One of the figures merely brightens a light revealing them to the Queen. "No need to be alarm, we are just here to talk, you might already know me as the Mother of the Shield Hero."
"Kushina Uzumaki," Mirellia is a bit surprise that she's here at this hour but it is to be expected as she did invite her and the fact that the redhead like to do things in secret.
"In the flesh, and I bet you already know Jiraiya." The Toad Sage merely waves his hand and says "Pleasure to meet you".
"Yes my Shadows told me about you, but before we discuss," Mirellia bows down before them taking by surprise, the two shinobi were expecting this gesture from the highest authority of Melromarc. "I like to express my sincere apologies for the action of my husband and daughter; I assure you two that I do not condone their schemes and had sent letters and messengers reprimanding him as well as taking extra care toward the Shield Hero."
Kushina can feel sincerity in this woman, there is neither deception nor trickery, just shame for what her family had done. "The person who should be bowing and apologizing should be your husband and daughter, they're the ones who done such a stupid move against us."
"Also, if what you said about the letters and messengers are true then he's either ignoring them or simply refused to obey your letters, I'm pretty sure that's insubordination if not outright treason." Jiraiya gaze on the woman finding any deception in her tone, surprisingly she's being completely honest.
A disappointed sigh as Mirellia admits it as she stood up and faces them. "I'm afraid so, normally he would never dare disobey me like that but it seems my eldest daughter and that cult are using his grudge towards the demi-humans and previous Shield Hero to their advantage, it's difficult for him to say no to her."
"Even if it means risks losing his head just to pursue his own goals of petty revenge?" Jiraiya asked.
"Yes, I can assure you that he and my daughter will be punish severely for their actions once I return from my diplomatic mission." Dark thoughts enter the Queen's mind, she is planning the type of punishment she'll inflict upon Aultcray and Malty.
The redhead shinobi felt the Queen's dark aura, she knew she's serious. She'll have to wait and see if she'll actually go through with it, after all despite their wrong doings they're still her family and severely punishing your family can be difficult.
"And what about the Church of the Three Heroes, surely you got some plans?" Jiraiya wants to know her thoughts about the cult and if she have any plans against them.
Mirellia sat down on her bed seemingly frustrated. "For years I've been limiting everything the church can get a hold of from lands to funds, reducing their overall power, but I'm struggling in bringing them down since their influence is deeply ingrained within Melromarc society, of course things get more difficult for me as my husband is undoing all of my work and my daughter colluding with them in order for her to become Queen." From destroying Lurolona to falsely accusing the Shield Hero of rape it is a mess that Mirellia must clean up and wipe the shame from her country.
"From the history I've read they were there at the very beginning, trying to remove them is like trying to pull a nail from a stone wall without a hammer." Kushina didn't like them because of their biased views, now she hates them for their history of attempted genocide and teaching lies and false gospels.
Jiraiya said his piece speaking up his mind. "You might call me as a man of peace, being a veteran in a war who done his share of killings make me longs for a world without conflict, and this cult goes against everything I believe in."
She stood up from her bed as she proposes to them. "From what you told my Shadows you people are shinobis, the ways you operate are similar to a mercenary, is that correct?"
"Pretty much, though we only take missions and requests from the people in the Land of Fire, we also include clients from allied and neutral countries." Jiraiya explained.
"That's good, but before I make a request I must warn you about the plot against you by my scheming daughter and husband."
"Yes, we are already aware of the trap they come up with along with branding me as their slave; if they try to chain me I'm going kill many before going down." Kushina will show no mercy against any other those conspirators thinking if she's going to give them a quick death or a slow and painful one.
"I see and it's good that you know, you are free to defend yourself as long as no innocent bystanders are harmed." Kushina and Jiraiya can agree to that. "Now regarding this these "crimes" that you supposedly committed let me help you with that." Mirellia went to her desk picks up a quill dipping it in ink and began writing. "I, Queen Mirellia Q. Melromarc, hereby declare that Lady Kushina Uzumaki not guilty of the crimes she is accused of for the simple reasons: Lady Kushina's action against Malty is justified for the fact that latter had made an incredibly ludicrous accusations against the former's son, Lady Kushina's action against Motoyasu is justified for the Spear Hero had made threatening gestures against the Shield Hero, and lastly Lady Kushina's action against the eight knights is justified for King Aultcray have no reasons to apprehend her." She wrote it all down in the paper, she also adds another paper writing a different one. "I will also add this: As an apology for the farce trial I Queen Mirella Q. Melromarc grants Kushina Uzumaki, the Shield Hero Naruto, and Hinata Hyuga the freedom to ignore the commands, orders, and summons by King Aultcray and Princess Malty without facing any punishment or consequences. You may do as you like as long as it doesn't come into conflict with Melromarc laws."
"That's sounds good and all but will that letter be enough?" Jiraiya is very certain that the king will ignore it like those before it.
Kushina smirks. "I think it's enough, the king's and the princess' respect and adoration from both the people and the noble have plummeted thanks to the botched trial, I heard many of the rumors and chatters regarding it and many agreed to my actions, I heard at least two dozen women said they'll definitely slap that bratty princess if she made a wild accusation like that against their children not caring if she's royalty."
"No kidding, if I was there I'll definitely do the same thing it'll be a fist to the nose, I don't care if she's pretty or a princess," The Sage turns to the Queen with an apologetic look. "No offense."
"None taken," Mirellia waves him off as she can understand what they're feeling. "When my husband send a missive to me explaining about your actions I'll reply with this, and also I'll have my Shadows make copies of these so in the event that you somehow got captured and put on trial." It's too early for this declaration of pardon to be sent to Aultcray she must maintain the illusion that she is not aware of what he's doing, the shinobi knew her motivation and understand it.
"Alright, so that settles it for the trap and trial. So what is your request, what do have in mind?" Jiraiya can already guess what it is.
"Bringing down the Church of the Three Heroes and in order for that to happen I need something big, I'm aware that they're planning to rule my country through manipulating my eldest daughter Malty but I need a solid evidence of their conspiracy."
With a smile Jiraiya says. "Your Highness, as long as it involves destroying that cult I give you a generous discount if not outright free."
Mirellia smiles back. "And I promise that I'll pay you all handsomely for your services," turning to Kushina with assurance "As well as compensations for the troubles that my own family had caused you." For the next hour the three discuss their plans against the cult and the foolish king and princess. She also went on to explain in detail about political atmosphere that the summoning caused, a war nearly happened, the nations are understandingly furious, compromises are made, outwitting her opponents, and maintain peace.
Back with the Group
It's been a week since battling the Two Headed Dog in the mines, Raphtalia is making a lot of progress during those passing days, exercising to increase her strength and speed, swordsmanship training with Kushina, learning genjutsu from Kurenai as she appears to be a natural as she learn and master the Tree Binding Death and Hell Viewing, as for her nature affinity they discover that it's both Yin and Yang which explains why she's learning genjutsu and gaining strength fast, to have at least some defence against elemental attacks they taught her some water or earth which she choose the former since it reminds her of Sadeena, and with that she's learning Water Bullet and Water Wall but is instructed by Kushina to not use it until she fully masters them.
As expected the adults took note of Raphtalia's age which went up as she levels, she looks to be age fifteen to sixteen by level twenty-one, not only her appearance changed but her attire as well, during the fight in the mines she was wearing a simple brown shirt and shorts with a shinobi sandals now she's wearing a standard issue dark blue pants and a long-sleeved black shirt, and over her shirt a pale green flak jacket that have two button pockets on the lower stomach, this type of flak jacket although inferior to the ones worn by higher ranking shinobi provides decent protection, light, and can be worn by genins and civilians.
She also became well acquainted with some new friends, just yesterday Jiraiya performed the summoning again, this time it was Naruto and Hinata's teammates: Sasuke, Sakura, Kiba, and Shino. Like with Hinata the demi-human girl is fascinated by the clans they came from.
First is Sasuke from the famous Uchiha clan, like the Hyuga clan they too have special eyes or dojutsu as they call it, the Sharingan havig similar properties with the Byakugan in terms of seeing a person's chakra network with the added abilities of casting illusions and to copy a target's jutsu. From the initial meeting he was rather closed off individual until Naruto said "He may be broody but he's actually a nice guy once you get to know him."
Second is Kiba from the Inuzuka clan, Naruto had mentioned him before were that particular clan is famous for their Ninja Hounds who fought alongside their chosen partner, as such their specialized in tracking and hunting. Kiba's companion is named Akamaru who is small enough to hide in the boy's jacket, Raphtalia find this very cute and is becoming friends with them fast.
From the Aburame clan is Shino, Raphtalia first thought they have giant insects to fight for them imagine her surprise and horror when she learns more of the nature of the insects they used primarily the Kikaichu bugs, they don't get stored inside a bottle or creep along the clothes, no they live inside the body. The demi-human girl out of curiosity asked Shino about the beetles, she regrets asking upon hearing the Kikaichu Technique, shortly after birth they let Kikaichu insects colonize the body this is so they can form a symbiotic relationship where host feed the beetles his or her chakra and in exchange the beetles will do his or her commands.
And then there's Sakura Haruno, she doesn't belong to any shinobi clans but she does show promise, she is recently taking lessons to become a medical-nin the reason being is that she don't want to be useless, after the battle of the Bridge was quite ferocious and she felt so helpless as she was merely ordered to stay and guard Tazuna while the others do all of the fighting, seeing Sasuke's heavily injured after the fight gave her the motivation to improve herself. She's polite and easy to get along with.
The four genins' reaction are that of curiosity and wonder, Kiba and Sakura were the most engaging when comes to asking the Raphtalia about herself and what it's like to be a demi-human, she can tell that she's the first demi-human they ever met as they take a closer look at her tail and ears. From lunch all to the late darkness of the night Raphtalia and the genins talk about everything from families, their favorite food, color, hobby, likes and dislikes, and hopes for the future. It is always best to build a strong camaraderie as they seems to become somewhat protective of her when they learn of what happen to her village, her enslavement, her former master's cruel treatment, and eventually rescued by Naruto Uzumaki.
Then comes today, they're battling against giant porcupines, grinding as usual only this time Naruto and Hinata's teammates are participating and she getting a front row seat in seeing them inaction.
The demi-human girl ran through the forest in search of an enemy to fight, hearing rustling nearby she heads towards it and she got there she encounters two porcupine monsters, she narrowly dodges the beasts' attacks and needles, in a quick movement she rushes towards the flank and plunges her sword deep into the beast's neck, but the second one regain its composure and charges towards her before Raphtalia could remove her sword from the corpse a loud voice is heard.
"Fang Over Fang" Two rotating projectile came crashing on the second beast instantly killing it, it happens to be a boy and a dog.
"Thank you, Kiba, and you as well Akamaru."
"Don't sweat it, just be extra careful with their needles." And with that the Inuzuka boy heads off to a different direction with Akamaru following behind.
Raphtalia continues on towards the clearing ready to engage any monsters, it didn't take long until she encounters three more of them only they're facing Sasuke, without hesitation he performs six hand signs, though Raphtalia doesn't know what it is yet she's fully aware that he's casting a jutsu and she must get out of the way and keep her distance just in time for Sasuke to shout. "Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu!"
The beasts have no time to react as they got hit and are incinerated and when the fires clear they are nothing more but charred remains. Raphtalia and Sasuke look at each other and then nod, no need for words you know what to do, Sasuke disappears from sight in search of a tougher monster.
She run again going through the woods looking at left and right, now she's seeing the light from the clearing she almost at the field, but before she could go any further a hand grabs her by her shoulder stopping her in her tracks. "Hold on a second," Shino warns her and before the demi-human could ask she hears something looking at the right she saw the porcupine monster dashing straight pass them wildly charging until it hits a tree knocking itself out, she can see that Shino's Kikaichu swarming all over the beast's body no doubt dulled all its senses. "Alright, path is clear." He lets her go.
"Thanks," She waves at him before going to the clearing, she smiles at the bright sun she can now she'll fight in this area. She heard Naruto's voice and naturally rushes toward him, she arrives at the spot where Naruto is standing on top of a rock facing a porcupine that is charging at him.
"Naruto Uzumaki Shield Wall!" Five Clones stood in front of him and each summons a huge shield, this particular technique combines his trademark jutsu with that of the Legendary Shield: Shadow Clone and Air Strike Shield; in effect it replicates the standard shield wall commonly used by the army.
The beast ran head first into the shield causing it to jump back only to find itself being cage by multiple shields.
Naruto smirks as he got the beast right where he wants it, he's been experimenting with the Shield and out of creativity summons multiple near unbreakable shields that all forms up into a cage, he named this "Shield Prison". Noticing Raphtalia he smiles and asks her. "Want to land the killing blow?"
Raphtalia is eager to please Naruto and show off her skills, nodding and getting herself in a fighting stance Naruto dispel the cage releasing the beast, in a blind fury the porcupine readies for a charge but it didn't get the chance when Raphtalia swings her sword down beheading the beast. "Is that the last of them?"
"Pretty much, this area is clear, for now," Kakashi appears before them reading his not-for-minors book Icha Icha, closing it as he gazes on the distance. "There is another group of monsters about half a kilometer from here."
"I think it's time for a break," Kushina appears next to the silvered hair jonin whose book suddenly vanishes from his hand as the genin all gather around. "It is noon and you all need an hour or two of rest and eat," She took out a request paper from a nearby town that detailed a mission. "Because the next mission we will be dealing with some Dire Wolves."
"Really, actual live Dire Wolves?" Kiba asked enthusiastically.
"Seems like you know what they are." Sakura got the impression judging by the Inuzuka's tone.
"Dire Wolves are basically myth in our world, every Inuzuka kids know about this monster."
"And from the guild's report the Waves seems to have an effect on them, making them more aggressive." Kushina reads out the details, these beasts tends to avoid civilization but after the catastrophic event they're prowling closer at a nearby town, first attacking livestock then it got to the point where they are attacking humans at broad daylight.
"If they're like the normal wolves then it's likely they'll be the same and travel in packs." Along with being in a group wolves would display some tactical skill mostly the basic like surrounding or cornering their prey.
While they're taking a break Kushina then began telling them of their overall strategy, mostly the Queen's idea which is simply propaganda that contradicts the teachings of the Church of the Three Heroes, they already got a head start when she'd proven her son's innocence and the fact that Naruto is a minor by their law, their mission is pretty simple keep doing missions that help the common folks which involves defeating monsters and bandits and most importantly participate in the Waves. The King and the church are not aware of the existence of Jiraiya, Kakashi, Kurenai, and the other genins yet so it is important that they are hidden from view besides Naruto, Kushina and Hinata. Like before any Shadows affiliated to the king or the cult who got close are to be immediately eliminated thus not only they keep their whereabouts and activities secret but also reducing the effectiveness of their intelligence, already Kushina, Kakashi, and Jiraiya had dispatched over a three dozen Shadows to which according to friendly Shadows are consist of the best spies and assassins the cult have to offer.
Jiraiya reveals the king's plan against Kushina, already come up with a countermeasure and while the genins are happy to help but Kushina simply states that four jonins would be enough. The countermeasure is simple: Jiraiya and Kakashi will first go in using either disguise or Transparent Jutsu neutralizing anyone who is part of the plan, Kushina and Naruto will go in to have him register at this Dragon Hour Glass, a Shadow Clone of Hinata will accompany them to make it appear that they're complete, and then after all things are done leave the premise.
The Toad Sage also went on to explain their main enemy in this moment which is the aforementioned cult their motives and their history, just like his reaction they too react in disgust to such a group so evil, they finally found a religion far worse than the Cult of Jashin, at the very least the Jashinists are fully aware about their God's wickedness and is very honest in their quest to spread death and destruction which is why they are so few if not a single person, while the Church of the Three Heroes is the main religion of Melromarc was built on lies and discrimination while painting themselves as the good guys.
"Man, all because Naruto is the Shield Hero?" Kiba is so glad that only one country has this cult, if this cult widespread almost encompassing the entire continent or the world then there is no hope in changing.
"With a cult this toxic and volatile, there's only two ways it'll end: they successfully defeat the demi-human nation or they end up destroyed." Shino read more of the history books he borrowed from Jiraiya. "I'm rather surprise that they're still standing considering that there are two demi-human countries Siltvelt and Shieldfreeden, and other countries that have a fair amount of demi-humans."
"I still can't believe they tried to convict Naruto on false charges," Sakura said in disbelief. "Naruto likes to play pranks on people but he would never do the crime they accused him off."
The genins are fully aware about the crime of rape, even saying the word or thinking of it leaves a bad taste, all except for Naruto who is purposely leave on the dark and doesn't know the meaning yet. "Yeah, though I know it's bad that my mom don't want me to say it I still don't know what it is."
"The reason why they're not telling you the meaning of that word is mostly to make you appear more innocent thus making their accusations against you look even more stupid than it already is." Sasuke smiles even if Naruto knew the word his age alone is the main contributing factor that sees him innocent to the eyes of the law and people.
Hinata then voices her thoughts on the matter and wants to tell of a particular gossip. "There's been a rumor spreading recently that the crime did happen but it's the other way around, Malty is the perpetrator while Naruto is the victim."
The genins nearly laugh until Kiba says. "Hey, Naruto, what does the princess looks like, can you describe her?"
"I can simply use Transformation," With three hand seals he transforms and takes the form of Malty Melromarc, it is an accurate copy of appearance from her emerald green eyes and crimson hair to her choice of attire. "Hello, I'm the Princess of Melromarc, Malty." He even perfectly imitates her voice.
"So that's princess Malty?" Raphtalia have never seen the eldest daughter of Mirellia before.
"You never saw the princess before?" Hinata asked her which the demi-human answers with a yes.
"Okay, I'll admit, she's very hot." Kiba would definitely not mind if she forces herself on him.
"Malty" wags her finger and winks at the Inuzuka boy. "Now now, I'm probably the most horrible person you'll ever meet, I'm a spoiled brat who loves to lie a lot, I like to cause trouble and make people suffer, I cheat in games and steal from Mama, I like to falsely accuse people of crimes and Papa will always side with me no matter what."
"Seriously, surely the king would do something about her bad behaviour?" Sakura is in disbelief, because if she did those things her father Kizashi will surely beat her as punishment and it's much more severe if it was her mother Mebuki.
Naruto reverts back to his own form. "Believe it, Mom and Pervy Sage told me and Hinata a lot about her after they did some digging, the king is way too soft and can't punish his own daughter as he feels like a bad father if he does that."
"Had the Queen ever done something, this is a Matriarchal society after all." Sasuke asked.
Hinata answers him. "According to Miss Kushina the Queen is tend to be busy with her duties, and when she did she sends her to study abroad but all Malty accomplished is graduating from virginity."
"So that makes her a lost cause making the younger sister the Crowned Princess instead." Shino sums it up well, spoiling your child and never punishing for any misdeeds will result in a problem child, and from how it looks the older princess did not improve in her qualities.
After finishing their meal they rest for a whole hour talking things mostly about the new world they're in, the people, culture, armaments, magic, and the different races. Soon they were join by the jonins but Jiraiya is absent resuming his activities in setting up a spy network, they then explaining the details of their next mission.
"Alright then I will remind you all again, the king, the princess, the cult, and the general populace are not aware of your existence yet so it is important that you all hidden or disguise yourselves well, as far as they know the Shield Hero's companion consists only of me and Hinata."
"So we'll just hide in plain sight and act like the ANBU?" Kiba asked.
"Yes, only I, Naruto and Hinata can only be seen in public. Do not stray too far they are sending their spies or Shadows as they call them."
This peaks Sasuke's interest. "This Shadows you're speaking of, are they like us?"
"I eliminated a lot of them and I have to say they are really good at hiding themselves from us." Kakashi was instructed to kill any agents belonging to the cult and the king; the friendly ones are pretty helpful providing them with intelligence, no matter how good they are at hiding Kakashi's gift will always able to see them. "The strength level tends to be varied, there are those who know magic while some don't, there are some who are skilled in assassination while some are only good at spying."
"And from what the Shadows from Siltvelt and Shieldfreedon told us Queen Mirellia's is considered the best there is and are loyal only to her." Kurenai explained.
Kushina pulls out a map, lay it on the ground for everyone to see and points at a specific spot. "The next area we're going is a village up further north, it is a simple farming village that breed and raise sheep that grows high quality wool and the Dire Wolves are preying on their prized livestock."
"Wolves and sheep, it's such a classic." Kiba remarked thinking of the phrase "Wolves in Sheep's Clothing" and the story "Wolf and the Seven Lambs".
"Any Questions?" Seeing the genins silent she proceeds. "Alright let's go?"
And the shinobi went their merry way, moving at incredible speed. Kushina and Naruto kept close with Raphtalia ensuring that she's not falling behind, the demi-human struggled at first but over the course of the week she improves and now is able to move like them, she learned chakra control allowing her to walk on water and on trees.
Raphtalia is having the time of her life, it is a basic thing for the shinobi but for a newcomer like her she feels like she's flying, jumping from tree to tree and running with great haste, it gives her the impression she can go anywhere in the world.
"Looks like you're having a good time." Kushina smiles at her.
Raphtalia answers with a nod and says. "Yes, I love this feeling, is this how shinobi move around your world?"
"When we're on a hurry, yes, move fast and efficient." Soon enough they got to the village and the group stop by the treelines, farmers tending the fields and shepherds herding the sheep, living in simple houses, something you expect in a village. "Remember, only me, Naruto and Hinata can be seen in public."
With that the three move down on the road and began walking casually to the settlement, the rest follow them closely by moving up through the trees, the trio enter the village and start looking for the chief or elder.
Kushina asks one of the folks. "Hello there, can we speak with the person in charge of this village."
"You want to move here or-" A man answered her and when he takes a closer look is when he recognizes the Shield on Naruto's arm. "The Shield Hero, and you must be Miss Uzumaki and Miss Hinata, I assume you're all here for our chief's request."
"You assumed correctly, we just happen to be passing by when we heard of Dire Wolves troubling your village." Kushina lets off a sweet smile.
"Thank you and please follow me," The man motions for them to follow and as he leads to a bigger house "I am happy that you decided to help us, already these beasts got dozens of our sheep, four breeding rams, and even my poor Daisy."
Hinata hopes this Daisy is a sheep as they follow the man, the people give them odd looks but their expression are pretty much neutral, they arrive and they are see a stocky man who is helping out with the others in constructing a better fence for their livestock. Upon seeing the trio he stops what he's doing and come to greet them. "The Young Shield and the Mother of the Hero,"
"Cool," Naruto likes the title then turns to Hinata. "What about Hinata, does she get a cool nick name?"
"Well nothing, other than the Quiet one and the Blind Girl, sorry."
Kushina smirks, it is common for people to mistake a Hyuga member to be blind, a fact that the clan use to their advantage. "She's quiet but not blind, she can perfectly see."
"M-Miss Kushina is right I'm not helpless."
The man stands there awkwardly not expecting this info. "Anyway, if you're here for the mission regarding the Dire Wolves they can be located further up north into the woods, you can find them hiding in their den, I'll asks one of my boys to accompany you and lead you to it."
"No need," Kushina waves him off, preferring that none of them comes with her which would result in her other comrades being discovered. "The direction is enough for us; we'll come back for the payment once we've deal with them.
"Oh, that's good," The man looks relief as he doesn't want any of his fellow villagers to be in harm's way, but looking at the Hinata girl again he is a bit concern for her. "Just a warning, these beasts are not your average wolves, Dire Wolves are much bigger and seem to be much intelligent, they might surround and pounce on you if you're all not careful."
"Noted, anything else you want to add?"
"Yes, the King's men are looking everywhere for you three, more likely wanted to keep tabs on you like with the three other Heroes, you just vanish like a ghost after that incident." He's referring to the failed trial, the King initially want Kushina punish for threatening him but it seems it died down after three days.
"I like to keep our activities a secret and I greatly distrust that man along with that liar for a daughter of his."
The man gulps when the redhead gave him a piercing glare as if she's suspecting that he might do something against them, it's very understandable as the princess basically lied to have her son convicted of a crime he didn't do and no doubt sees everyone in Melromarc to be their enemy considering the nation's religion and history. "No kidding, rest assured that I and my fellow villagers have no ill intents towards your son, oh and good luck out there."
The man went back to helping his fellow villagers as the trio walks outside and once they step foot in the forest they disappear, at least four people who were watching them were surprise but quickly get over it and resumes their daily activities.
Just out of sight and further into the woods the shinobi converge. "Alright then, the Dire Wolves are at the northern parts, Kakashi, had you scouted ahead?"
"Yes, about ten of them." Once he heard of the man's direction he'd went ahead and used his Sharingan for a moment which is enough to find what he's looking for.
"It's going to be the same as before," Kushina started turning to the demi-human girl. "But this time try to perform combos with your other teammates as much as possible."
Sasuke turns to Kiba with a teasing look. "Not going to be squeamish when we're hunting down canines?"
Kiba just scoffs at this question. "I'm not soft, besides wild animals are dangerous that either driven away or put down when they threaten you, if they try to kill and eat Akamaru I'll not hesitate in killing them." The said pup barks in appreciation for his partner's protectiveness.
The trek is short and they arrive at the location, Hinata's Byakugan and Kiba and Akamaru's nose confirms it. Like before the jonins disappear to watch over the genins, now they begin formulating a tactic in how to approach the situation.
"Alright, so what's the plan in how we deal with this, same as before?" Naruto asked Shino who is assigned as the team leader if the jonins are not present.
"Pretty much," The plan before is when the genins are separated into two groups, first is the frontal assault consists with Naruto, Sasuke, Kiba and Raphtalia while the second is the long ranged support group were Shino attacks with his bugs, Hinata will do surveillance with her Byakugan, and Sakura who is learning to be a medic as well as support with shurikens and kunai knives. "By the way, Raphtalia, Miss Kushina told us that you have a trauma when it's against monstrous dogs, are you going to be alright with this?"
"I'm fine; I already had faced my fears and cured my trauma during the fight in the mines." Not to mention that fighting side by side with Naruto is a huge morale booster for demi-humans who look up to the Shield Hero.
"Alright then," The Aburame boy turns to the others "Any more questions?" Seeing no reply he then decides to give the order. "Good, begin the attack."
They spring into action, Raphtalia stays close to Naruto who summons twenty clones, spreading out and assisting the other genins. Dire Wolves who are aware of the danger coming for them come out to fight.
Sasuke is the first to kill one of them, performing Shuriken Shadow Clone Jutsu to summon about fifty projectiles to surround the beast making it unable to dodge; he then delivers a killing blow by stabbing a kunai on its head.
The second Dire Wolf to die is by the hands or rather insects of Shino, the beast kills four clones before getting hit by three shurikens from Sakura, angry it charges towards her only to be hit by a wall of insect that rise in from of it, the beast run in circle biting and clawing in a desperate attempt to fight of the Kikaichu bugs, Shino puts it out of its misery by throwing a kunai scoring a hit on its neck.
Raphtalia is next one to kill, a beast charges at Naruto who easily blocks it with his shield and the demi-human outflanks it swings her blade down and severing the beast's head, then one of the clones calls out for her where she turns and saw a bunch of clones holding down another one, she rushes forward running her sword shooting in the mouth the tip sprouting from the back of its head.
Kiba and Akamaru with their double Fang Over Fang has kill two Dire Wolves, their attack is not over yet as the man and beast combo continues on and strike another one.
Sakura and Hinata stay close together were the Hyuga Heiress watches the battlefield and on a lookout for any incoming danger, sure enough Hinata spots one that is coming for them warning Sakura about it, the pink haired genin quickly threw shurikens at it but the beast dodges it to the left then dashes towards the girls, before it could bite Naruto appears with his shield raise blocking the beast, the girls flank it Hinata delivering palm strikes at the right and Sakura finishes it off with a kunai stab on its neck.
A clone transforms into a giant Fuma Shuriken for Raphtalia to use throwing it and hitting the Dire Wolf and to be sure uses her sword to stab it. And finally Sasuke deals with the last one, performing the Fireball Jutsu burning the beast to a crisp. And that concludes the battle.
After the fight the jonins show up to check up on the genins to see their condition and to nurse any injury, seeing that they're unscratched they begin clean up the mess, clones collecting the corpses and putting them on a pile, Naruto collects the parts for the Legendary Shield: fangs, claws, and pelt, even a head are all fed to the shield giving more bonuses and unlocks.
Two Naruto Clones went to check the den and immediately came back with a discovery. "Hey guys, you have to come and take a look at this."
The group follow them wondering what it is, though the jonins has a good guess. Coming inside the den they saw a litter of pups, about seven of them all whimpering or barking for their mother. Sakura and Hinata get close with Raphtalia behind them.
"They're so cute." Sakura is beaming at the adorable puppies.
Hinata carefully scoops up one of them and began petting it; she is affectionate in her coddling that she's exuding a warm aura which makes the other pups come close to her.
"If I were to judge these pups look to be over a month old." Considering the practices and culture of the Inuzuka clan it is only natural that they run a veterinary clinic and it is required that each Inuzuka member must learn how to treat dogs and other animals and also work in the clinic at least once or twice a month.
"So what are we going to do with them?" Sasuke asked seemingly unaffected by the display. "Considering that we just killed their parents."
This hits the genins hard, what had been glory for killing the beasts that was terrorizing the village is turn to guilt and regret, they robbed these little ones of their parents and without them they're at the mercy of other predators.
"S-Surely we can take them in?" Sakura implores the jonins.
"Taking care of a dog is a big responsibility, even more so if it's born in the wilds." Kushina explained.
"I-" The words got stuck in her throat, while Sakura wants to take of them she isn't sure if she can has what it takes.
"Either we leave them here were they'll die of thirst or from predators, or kill them now to spare them the suffering." It might be cold and heartless for Kakashi but it is practical not to mention killing them would be an act of mercy, it is not easy but life isn't always easy and fair.
The group contemplate in what to do with them, until Naruto remembers what Hinata said about the Inuzuka clan. He nudges Kiba with his elbow and said. "Hey Kiba, weren't your clan famous for taking of dogs and didn't you told us a story about a wolf tamer?"
"Yeah," Kiba turns to the adults with a declaration. "I'll volunteer to take them in, considering that they're still pups it'll be easy to tame and domesticate, and we Inuzuka are for famous for our ninja canines."
"Are you certain about that, Kiba?" Kurenai knows he's serious; she had heard of one of the Inuzuka's favourite stories and knows they can handle it.
"I'm very certain, this is not the first time an Inuzuka tamed wolves, take my Mom's grandparents for example: Ashi and Mimi." A peculiar name though the jonins knew who he's talking about, the other genins heard the name in passing, and Raphtalia have no idea. "They have a pack of wolves as their preferred Ninja Hounds, they tame and trained them personally, not to mention that a lot of us will be more than willing to adopt them when they learn that these pups are real living Dire Wolves."
Kakashi turns to Kushina with a simple question. "What do you think?"
The red headed jonin smiles, she already has a reply. "I say go for it."
Hinata, Raphtalia, Kiba, Sakura, and Naruto all sigh a relief with the Inuzuka showing gratitude. "Thank you Miss Kushina, I promise we'll take good care of them and they won't cause any trouble."
"To insure that they won't be a hindrance I suggest leaving them in your clan's care, though this might take some time before they reply and arrive," Kurenai said to which the genins all agreed.
"Its fine, my Mom taught me how to take care a puppy." Kiba said with pride.
Sakura also adds. "Yeah, and we'll help as well."
And so the five genins pick up the puppies with care, they want to compensate by giving them a new home a comfortable one at that where they'll make new friends, away from the wild and the merciless Mother Nature.
Chapter ends
AN: Okay, not expecting that this chapter to reach over nine thousand words long but I'm happy that it did, the last part were they gain some new pets is inspired by chapter 5 of Rise of the Sword and the Shield by Lyall the Werewolf, it saddens me that Asuka had to kill those pups so they won't suffer that I wanted to make an alternate scene that the pups are taken in instead. Speaking of which those Dire Wolf pups are going to stay in the Inuzuka clan, I might plan their next appearance months later or at least three years later, Naruto: Shippuden time.
For the next chapter the group will head to the church of three heroes to have Naruto register with the hourglass, helping them would be Kakashi, Kurenai (who will be disguising as Hinata), Jiraiya, and a team of shinobis, take a guess to who it is. The other genins will have to wait far away and act as reinforcement in case things went haywire.
I need some assistance when it came to unlocks for the Shield mainly the porcupine and wolf parts, what are it called and abilities and such.
So for Raphtalia she's learning water based jutsus as well as many genjutsus that she learns from Kurenai and Kakashi.
Here's a list of all of her jutsu:
Shadow Clone Jutsu (for now she can only summon up to three clones)
Leaf-Style Willow
Tree Binding Death
Hell Viewing
Blade Concealed in Glamour
Water Bullet (Still learning, instructed by Kushina to not use it until she fully masters it)
Water Wall (Still learning, instructed by Kushina to not use it until she fully masters it)
Tearing Torrent (Still learning, instructed by Kushina to not use it until she fully masters it)
If you have any jutsu both canon and fan made in mind for her let me know.
Also here's a new Omake for today and a different one, hope you all enjoy this.
Omake
Motoyasu tries to flirt with: Tsunade
After another quest were he saved a village from famine and starvation he went to a tavern to celebrate with his esteemed companions (harem), unfortunately the girls became very busy with Malty being summoned by her father for an important meeting, Elena needs to attend her mother's business, Lesty went home to rest since she's exhausted from all the walking, and Rino need to leave to be with her sick grandmother, but they did promise that they'll party later on once they're done with their business which Motoyasu is looking forward to, this also means he have free time to flirt with any woman he sees.
And lo and behold a woman coming in the tavern has gained his attention. She is a beautiful woman with fair-skinned, brown eyes, straight blonde hair, and this small violet diamond shaped tattoo on her forehead. But what really caught his attention are her massive breasts behind the kimono-style blouse and haori. She ignores all the stares and gawking eyes as she went straight for the counter were the bartender snaps from his stupor and starts serving her.
"H-Hello, how can I serve you today?"
She sits on a bar stool and began eying the bottles and barrels. "I heard this tavern have the tastiest wine in town, never have wine before so I want my first to be the best."
"Of course," The bartender quickly and carefully picks up a bottle and glass, pouring the red liquor and puts it on the counter in front of her. "Here you go."
The busty woman inspects the wine and then takes a sip; the bartender holds his breath hoping the class of the wine is up to her standards to his delight she smiles. "This is good, the taste is sweet and I can feel the buzz; I'll take the entire bottle."
"Sure thing," The bartender happily gave her the wine before moving to attend the other guests.
Tsunade gulps down the whole glass of wine savouring the taste and alcohol, and then feels a presence besides her.
"You should be careful not to drink too much, my fair Lady, there are dastardly men who will take advantage of drunken beautiful women such as yourself."
Tsunade is feeling annoyance, just because she's drunk doesn't mean she's helpless, in fact she might actually be more dangerous. "I appreciate the concern but I can handle on my own."
"Many women say that, but please let me be the one to accompany and protect you."
"I'm fine, thank you very much, and I don't need you since I don't know you."
"Well, let me introduce myself, I am Motoyasu Kitamura and I'm the Gallant Spear Hero." He bows slightly and presents his hand expecting her to hold it and let him kiss it. "May I know yours and get ourselves acquainted, who knows maybe our relationship can become more."
Tsunade looks at him with calculating look and her first impression of him is disappointment, he may have a Legendary Weapon but from the way he acts and wields it she can guess that he have no training nor combat experience, not to mention that she heard a lot about him flirting with many women. "I decline, and besides I already have a man that I love."
Not one to give up Motoyasu tries pushing his luck. "Well then, where is he? Surely this man should be accompanying you while you're taking a drink? Maybe he left you which is why you're drinking so much?"
It is so quick but the moment that Motoyasu realizes it the woman's hand is at his throat slowly choking lifting him up, his eyes met with the woman's glare, clearly he said something wrong, words that cross the line.
"Dan Kato is dead, heavily injured during a battle, I did everything to save him but he died in my arms. And now you're just insulting him assuming that he left me for another woman?"
Outside the tavern the people are going on about their business until a crashing noise is heard, they turn and saw the Spear Hero flying out the tavern and crashing into a vegetable stall, he is knocked unconscious.
Tsunade returns to her seat after dealing with the idiot, the patrons just stare in shock and bewilderment not expecting for a woman to have that so much strength. She places some coins in the counter looking at the bartender with an apologetic look. "Sorry about that, here's some for the damage, and also another bottle of wine please."
The bartender just nods nervously and did what she asks, not wanting to irate the woman.
Omake ends