Konoha
Siegfried gasped for air as he sat up. Looking around, the Azure Knight found himself in the hospital again. For some reason, Siegfried felt annoyed at the thought of being in a bright white room with that light flashing over his face. It didn't help that it was night all of a sudden, since it felt like the light was more definitive now that the sun is down. As Siegfried attempted to move, he felt his entire body ache as if he had repeatedly punched around.
It didn't help that his vision felt a bit blurry. Now Siegfried felt less confident about moving around without feeling disoriented.
"I wouldn't move around if I were you. Then again, I wouldn't listen to me in that situation." said a voice.
Siegfried groaned, "What happened this time?" he asked.
"I was hoping you would tell me. You tore up the forest after all." the voice said.
"I did?" Siegfried asked before grunting and holding his chest in pain. "I think something in the forest tore me apart." he said.
Suddenly the owner of the voice stepped into view, "That is also true. Then again, I think someone as stubborn as you would always wake up in a hospital and try to escape afterwards." they said.
"You sound like you know me." Siegfried said with a scoff.
The figure crossed their arms, "I think I know a thing or two. I think our relationship was rocky, but I call it tough love." they said.
Siegfried tried to narrow his eyes at the figure. Attempting to look at them as his vision blurred. He originally thought he saw an elderly pink haired woman with red eyes and a red cloak.
"Grandma?" Siegfried asked.
"In a way." the woman said.
When suddenly, the imagery had changed right away. Siegfried thought that he saw his adoptive grandmother, Porlyusica, standing before him. Instead, his vision adjusted and he saw a woman in her late 20s to early 30s with blonde hair, brown eyes and a shoulder less gray kimono top with a green jacket. Siegfried clutched his head as he couldn't trust his own senses.
"Where am I?" Siegfried asked.
The woman gave a weak smile, "Welcome home gaki." she said before surprising him with a hug.
Siegfried's eyes widened as this complete stranger hugged him. It felt heavy, but warm in a way. It was so foreign and yet it almost felt familiar in a way. Maybe it was instinct that tried to make him calm down. Whatever it was, this medic had no intention to harm him.
Chapter 21 - No Answers
A day earlier
Nightmare had proven to be quiet a dangerous foe. While not adept at ninjutsu or as fast as most of the experienced shinobi. The avatar of Inferno was not something that could be handled like a few thugs or a missing nin. Instead, Nightmare proved to be more dangerous and ruthless than expected.
"Great Fire Annihilation!" Nightmare yells as he unleashed a giant wave of flames at his foes.
With little water around to defend shield themselves against the flames. Kakashi slammed his palms into the ground as did Yamato. Both attempting to shield themselves with the techniques they can still use. Only enacting their jutsus the moment the Uchiha family took cover beside them.
"Earth Style: Earth Dome!" Kakashi yells as a large dome surrounds the.
"Wood Style: Forest Barrier!" Yamato yells as several trees sprout from the ground and cover the dome.
As the flames passed over the barriers. Sasuke and Kakashi both attempted to add another layer of contingency as they can feel the earth dome shattering. Doing so, they created a giant hole in the ground and Yamato summoned more trees to cover their heads. Only narrowly surviving despite some flames leaking through the wood.
"That fire is really something else." Kakashi comments.
"Now is not the time for witty remarks Hokage-sama." Yamato replied.
"Ignore him, didn't you hear what that thing said? He said the name of one of Madara's jutsus." Sasuke said.
Kakashi sweat dropped, "You've been going on and on about him being Naruto. So now you think he's Madara?" he asked.
"You might as well add the Rikudo Sennin to that list." Sarada said as everyone started wondering if Sasuke is senile.
Whatever was going on in Sasuke's mind had to be on hold. As the entire area started the shake once Nightmare punched the ground again. Causing Yamato to fly out of the hiding hole while Kakashi and the rest hanged on for dear life.
"There you are!" Nightmare yelled as he came charging in on a purple ethereal steed.
Yamato was the first to be cut down as he didn't have the chance to defend himself against the fast steed. Causing the wood user to crash through the forest with a massive slash across his chest. Kakashi suddenly shunshins towards his junior in an attempt to move him to a more safe area. Meanwhile Sasuke attempted to distract the demonic swordsmen.
"Lightning Style: Lightning Dragon Jutsu!" Sasuke yelled as he fires at Nightmare.
Nightmare in turn, attempted to swerve away only for his horse to stumble around. Leaving Sasuke to throw a hail of kunai all around him which Nightmare blocked by raising his blade. Forcing him into an awkward defense, Sasuke drew his sword and ran straight for him. Sakura and Sarada moved around as to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. The former really learned a lot after getting punched around when the Kumo ninja visited after Pain's invasion.
Back to Sasuke, the Uchiha patriarch was able to use his greater speed and reflexes to deal more blows around Nightmare. Though having difficulty being able to actually harm him due to the heavy armor. Deciding to try a better method, Sasuke focused on trying to use his Sharingan on Nightmare again. In hopes of suppressing the entity within Siegfried that's currently controlling him. Raising his blade up to block another heavy downward slash, Sasuke activated his dojutsu in an attempt to disable Nightmare.
Only to fail as he was quickly rejected before having the chance to enter his mind again. By then, Sasuke had already found himself sent crashing thanks to a spinning slash with Soul Edge. As Sasuke was about to get up again, he found himself being slashed upwards. Sending him flying into the air before slashed twice again before crashing into the ground. Then having to force his body to roll away as Nightmare attempted to impale him with Soul Edge.
'Damn, Naruto is probably trying to stop whatever is going on. That means this thing is probably being forced to hold back.' Sasuke thought before jumping back.
Sakura used the moment of distraction to send Nightmare crashing through several trees. Before eventually stopping at a stone he landed on. Then moving away quickly as Sakura shattered the stone easily with her super strength. Nightmare made a mental note to better prepare for Sakura's attacks despite being a slow and heavy fighter like himself. However, that didn't mean that Sakura had any more unique abilities outside of medicine and physical combat.
As Sakura came close in attempt to punch his head off. Nightmare side stepped and quickly grabbed her by the arm. Risking a grapple, Nightmare had used Sakura's momentum to toss her onto the ground. Where he created a big crater before punching Sakura right in the abdomen. Coming to her mother's rescue, Sarada ran straight towards Nightmare while forming several hand seals.
Nightmare sensed her and immediately shrouded himself inside of a purple mist, "Taste, the Sword of Despair." he said.
Sasuke immediately ran to his daughter's side and shoved her away. As Sarada was moved out of range of Nightmare's attack, Sasuke found himself being charged at by the same ethereal horse. Only this time, he was hit with a heavy slash that made Sasuke cough up blood.
"This Nightmare will consume you." Nightmare said as he charged a wave of flames at Sasuke.
Only being interrupted by a giant wall of earth from Sarada. Nightmare turned his attention to the Uchiha heiress who glared at him while throwing a lightning charged fuma shuriken at him.
Swatting that attack aside, Nightmare prepared for the incoming Chidori from Sarada. Where he recklessly caught it with his larger hand. Despite the slowly growing pain in his arm, Nightmare merely huffed at the girl. As he somehow started to transfer the lightning element through his body and into his other arm.
Putting down Soul Edge, Nightmare raised his free arm as lightning was ready to be exported by his fingers. Just as Sarada was about to face a near death experience, Nightmare threw her away and turned to the side. Releasing the heavy volt of electricity at a giant boulder that was tossed towards him.
"You leave my best friend alone you medieval cosplayer!" yelled a familiar voice.
"Chocho?" Sarada asked as she saw her friend standing a short distance away.
"That's me! I thought it would be a good idea to get help, so sorry for being fashionably late." Chocho said while flicking her hair like a model.
Sarada sweat dropped, "Sure, whatever. Wait, you brought help?" she asked.
"Kagemane - Success." Said a familiar voice.
Nightmare suddenly felt very stiff and slow as his shadow was constricted. The next thing he knew he, a giant pair of hands held him down. When suddenly, a pair of black and white tigers surrounded him and waited like guard dogs. Sarada looked around to see Team 10 of her parent's generation along with Sai having arrived.
"Sorry for making you wait kiddo. Choji was looking around for Chocho when she just started screaming her head off." Ino said.
"Troublesome, we couldn't understand the kid and we can't understand the situation." Shikamaru said as Nightmare struggled in his binds. "Even more troublesome, this thing is still to tough to just hold down. Ino, you wanna do something about it?" he asked.
Sasuke's lone eye had widened, "Ino don't!" he yelled.
"Mind Body Switch!" Ino yelled out as her mind left her body.
When Ino had travelled into Nightmare's consciousness. Shikamaru and Choji maintained their hold around Nightmare as a safety precaution. Which immediately failed as Sasuke had already predicted. With Nightmare a lot of his strength to break Shikmaru's hold before surrounding his body in fire, causing Choji to let go. Nightmare turned around as he blocked Sasuke's sudden strike as the Uchiha already knew that mental attacks were useless by now.
"Damn, what is Ino doing?" Shikamaru asked as Ino gasped for air.
"I can't do it! That thing's mind is too strong but… I saw someone else in there." Ino said confusing her teammates.
"What happened?" Shikamaru asked before hearing Sasuke being slammed into the ground again.
'I think Sarada is right, old age is catching up with me.' Sasuke thought as he avoided another stab aimed for his chest. Sasuke quickly got up and formed a seal, "Lightning Style: Bullet: Ibuki!" he said as he thrusted his hand towards Nightmare.
Who once again tried blocking the attack with Soul Edge. Only he was unable to stop the heavy impact that sent him crashing across the forest. As Nightmare slowly recovered, he was hit by Choji who transformed into a giant ball that sent him crashing into a hill. As Nightmare found himself busy with even more threats, Sasuke tried to come up with a plan to disable Nightmare. It didn't help that Orochimaru just watched idly as if nothing wrong was going on.
'Maybe we can exhaust him or…' Sasuke thought before remember what Ino did. 'Maybe we can disable his mind. Only this time, it's going to take everyone. Only we need to keep him held down.' he thought as Nightmare stood up and lifted Choji over his head.
Utilizing his massive strength, Nightmare proceeded to lift up Choji's round form and sent him crashing at Shikamaru who was attempting to work out a trap. Leaving Ino to try and hold him down while the Mind Body Disturbance Jutsu while everyone recovers. As well as ducking her head as a boulder flew over her and hit Nightmare.
"Chocho! Watch where you are throwing that!" Ino yelled.
"Sorry aunt Ino!" Chocho yelled as she adjusted her position.
"Soul Edge grows hungry!" Nightmare said before fixing his gaze at Ino.
Who suddenly let go of Nightmare and started to scream as she clutched her head. Releasing Nightmare in the process as he growled at everyone. Before being surrounded by several dogs who came out of nowhere and started biting down on his body. Revealing that Kakashi had returned to the battlefield and was helping keep Nightmare in place.
"Everyone, regroup at once. We can still beat him." Kakashi said as he started to prepare another Shiden.
As Choji and Shikamaru took their positions too. All three suddenly found their bodies paralyzed. With Shikamaru looking to see that Ino was using her Mind Body Disturbance to keep everyone in place.
"Ino, what are you doing!" Shikamaru asked before noticing her eyes glowing bright red like Nightmare's.
"…" Ino groaned like a zombie.
"Damn, that thing can manipulate people too!" Sasuke said before tackling Ino down. "The last thing I need is for you to be useless. Now wake up!" he said as he tried to use his EMS to release Ino.
Ino let out a gasp, "That thing is unnatural! I can't explain it…"
"Ino shut up. Listen to me, I need you to help me get in that things head." Sasuke said as he pointed at Nightmare who shook off Kakashi's dogs.
"Are you crazy!? That thing's mind is stronger than steel!" Ino tried to argue.
"Just do it and while you're at it. Can you take other people with you into his mind?" Sasuke asked.
"No, I don't think so. Only my clan has the power to go in together, but maybe I can try my Transmission Technique." Ino said as she slowly stood up.
"That will work." Sasuke said.
"Except it only works for communication, not mental transference." Ino said.
"It will still have to do." Sasuke said as he waited for Ino to prepare.
"You know, even if I do get other people besides myself into that monster's mind. I won't be able to disable him." Ino explained.
"Then I suppose I can step in now." Orochimaru said, suddenly appearing behind Ino.
"EEP! CREEP!" Ino yelled.
"I guess you decided to finally be useful. Still, now is better than never." Sasuke said as Ino prepared her jutsu.
As Kakashi and Choji engaged Nightmare directly with Shikamaru offering support from a distance. Ino started to focus her abilities to connect towards her allies. While still thinking over the risks that Sasuke asked of her. Which was to not only forcefully enter another person's mind where she has no control, but to bring several others with her as well. Regardless, this was a losing battle Nightmare was outclassing them all.
"Run if you can." Nightmare warned as he punched the ground hard enough to shake the entire forest.
As Nightmare prepared his next attack, Orochimaru formed hand seals to counter the monster, "Summoning Jutsu: Rashomon!" He yelled.
Nightmare found his attack impeded by Orochimaru's wall. With Soul Edge only stabbing a couple inches into the wall. Orochimaru backed away as he tried to form another barrier around Nightmare as he tried to pull out his sword.
'I still do not fully understand this all, but hopefully you can enlighten me Sasuke-kun.' Orochimaru thought as Ino transferred everyone into Nightmare's mind.
The Ethereal Chaos
Ino gasped as she found herself back in the Ethereal Chaos again. Along with Sasuke, Choji, Shikamaru and Kakashi with almost all of them looking confused.
"What the hell? Where are we?" Shikamaru asked.
"We're in his mind." Sasuke answered.
"I'm confused." Choji said.
"Long story short, like I told Kakashi. Naruto is alive and he's in the mind of a man I met earlier." Sasuke explained.
"Sasuke, I think the time for jokes is over." Kakashi said.
"Shut up Kakashi, just look ahead." Sasuke said as Inferno's flames appeared in the distance.
As the group slowly moved towards the flames. They could see something breaking it in half. Only for the fire to reform in another direction and shape. Like a firefighter trying to put out a wildfire that developed a stubborn conscience. It was only upon coming face to face with the fire did they see what was fighting the flames.
To everyone but Sasuke's confusion, they saw a bright orange jacket flash by as Inferno took form. Inferno immediately floated over everyone in a ring of fire before being hit by a giant sphere of blue energy. Making the demonic spirit break apart before slowly retreating into the flames.
"What the hell is going on?" Shikamaru asked.
"This is literally the worst mental case I've seen." Ino said as she was lost for words.
Sasuke started to lead everyone to the center as they saw a figure stand tall, "There he is." he said.
"Who? You haven't been very specific." Shikamaru asked.
That's when the orange figure appeared, "And I thought the teme was hit with the ugly stick. Did you pull everyone out of the retirement home or something Sasuke?" asked a familiar voice.
"No, it can't be." Ino murmured.
"This has to be some sort of genjutsu!" Kakashi said with shock.
"It's very real sensei." Sasuke said.
"You guys are looking at me with confusion, when I'm the one surrounded by old geezers." the individual replied.
"Naruto?" Kakashi asked as he could see his student's grin.
"That's me Kakashi sensei! I bet you used that mask because you were secretly old. I bet you learned the secret of immortality by now." Naruto said being cheerful as ever.
"As blunt and stupid as ever." Shikamaru said with a weak smile.
That's when Inferno came back and sent everyone flying with his flames.
"No time for jokes Shikamaru! Help me hold this guy down in the meantime and Sieg will buy you all the prune juice you want!" Naruto said.
"We're not that old!" Ino yelled angrily.
"Actually, I've been meaning to pick some up. The wife and I have…"
"Choji, you're only encouraging him!" Ino interrupted.
After ignoring Ino's ire at being called an old woman. The group along with a long since deceased comrade worked together to dispatch a foe. A powerful one that could one day rival Madara, or at the very least the Akatsuki in terms of danger. Though it would be a while before Naruto would reveal that Inferno and Soul Edge could not be defeated with force alone.
In reality
Orochimaru felt a drop of sweat fall down his forehead, "It was one thing carrying Jiraiya and later Tsunade on occasion, but this is just ridiculous." he said.
As Orochimaru did have a good way of directing Nightmare towards him. It didn't help that the demonic looking knight was targeting Ino and everyone else's unconscious bodies. The snake sannin cursed Sasuke's reckless plan as it left them all vulnerable to Nightmare. With Orochimaru being cautious as the fire is stronger than anything he's seen as well as having abilities that are stronger than most rare bloodlines he's categorized.
"It helps that the kenjutsu skill is fairly slow and lacks in defense." Orochimaru said as he was able to quickly slash at Nightmare's chest before sending him straight into a rock. Only to jump back as Nightmare slammed the ground with Soul Edge, "Of course, it has more level of thought that the jinchuriki Sasuke believes him to be." he said.
While Orochimaru has been able to defeat or at least be able to disable Naruto while using the kyuubi cloak. Though both times he was able to overcome Naruto, but not through sheer power alone. Though Nightmare appears to be a lot more intelligent compared to an unstable jinchuriki as well as having some knowledge of ninjutsu despite not being able to use it himself. Except, that doesn't stop him from trying to replicate it.
"Flame Bullet!" Nightmare yells as he thrusts an orb of fire at Orochimaru.
"Earth Style: Earth Wall!" Orochimaru said as he blocked the attack. "Earth Style: Hiding Like A Mole Jutsu!" he yells as he digs himself into the ground.
Now being able to move around more freely and quickly. Orochimaru quickly tried to strike down Nightmare before he could attack anyone's unconscious bodies. Having that mission in mind, Orochimaru quickly popped out of the ground and tried to stab Nightmare. Who just barely grabbed the blade with his clawed hand before head butting Orchimaru. Making the sanning fall back before Nightmare was suddenly kicked.
"Just in time Haruno-san." Orochimaru said as Sakura finally returned to battle.
"Sorry about that, I was trying to heal Captain Yamato. I saw the bodies and thought this thing defeated everyone." Sakura said as Sarada ran by her side.
"That's not what happened. Aunt Ino used one of her clan jutsus and…"
"Explain it later child." Orochimaru warned as Nightmare stabbed his sword into the ground.
Doing so with enough strength and pressure to make the ground slowly crack open. Causing the mother and daughter to separate. Before any of them could prepare for another fight. They heard Ino gasp loudly as she returned to her body. Just as Nightmare let out a lout scream before collapsing as the armor around his body fell apart.
"Troublesome." said Shikamaru as he also regained consciousness.
"What happened?" Sakura asked.
"I think I'll let Sasuke explain." Shikamaru said as everyone regained consciousness.
Meanwhile Orochimaru studied Soul Edge and Siegfried, "How surprising." he said.
"Wait, isn't that the swordsman from earlier?" Sakura asked.
"I think we best take him to see medical attention… again." Orochimaru said before coming up with his own plan. "That sword on the other hand, it's very dangerous for any man to possess." he added.
Today
After a long check up and extended wait period. Siegfried saw Tsunade return to his hospital room again.
"Well, you're in good health. Despite the beatings everyone gave you." Tsunade said.
"I'm missing my sword." Siegfried said.
"Oh yeah, TenTen came by to give it back. I think it's at the new Uchiha residence." Tsunade replied as the current Uchiha residence was too battered to fix.
"I meant the other one." Siegfried said catching Tsunade's attention. "That sword is evil and needs to be locked up." he said warning her.
Tsunade sighed, "I'm afraid that's a big no. We're working hard to have that thing sealed away and contained." she said.
An hour later, Tsunade's office
"What do you mean it can't be sealed?" Tsunade asked.
Orochimaru sighed, "The thing is not only sentient, but the fuinjutsu knowledge we have is too weak. I would consider having someone sacrifice themselves to use a certain sealing technique. However, I have my doubts." he said.
"You've stolen the Uzumaki clan masks before to summon sensei and the previous Hokages. Can't you use that?" Tsunade asked.
"I could, but I think I'll save that for last. There's also the fact that the spirit in the sword is capable of manipulating the weak minded." Orochimaru answered.
"And I'm assuming shattering it is out of the question too?" Tsunade asked.
"I think barbaric actions are always discouraged. It's as I said Tsunade-hime, it's sentient and can manipulate others. You cannot kill a spirit by repeatedly beating it." Orochimaru explained.
Tsunade sighed, "Well, what can we do about it?" she asked.
"Keep it temporarily restrained, but it's unknown how long the sword will run free to find a new host." Orochimaru answered. "Though it may be safer to give it back to it's current owner." he said.
"That's out of the question." Tsunade said sternly. "We just got Naruto back and the last thing we need is a literal demon plaguing him and the village." she continued.
Orochimaru would laugh if this was not a serious issue that needs to be addressed, "As much as I understand the loss of family Tsunade. I am a man of logic, it seems as with the Kyuubi. Sieg-san only taps into the demon sword's power when under heavy stress or something manages to keep him mentally incapacitated for a long enough period." he explained.
While Orochimaru did turn evil with no qualms or sense of guilt. He still had the memory of his parents and the love he had for them. Possibly the only thing that he has in common with Tsunade as well as understanding that feeling. Though the mutual feeling ends with how the two sannin moved on with their lives after their loved ones died.
Only now, it seems that a part of Tsunade is still wanting to reconnect with the boy she saw as her son. Even if he's another individual born through another body but with the same soul. Though Siegfried is completely unaware of this fact.
"The mysteries of "Soul Edge" are still vast, but I hypothesized that it takes a strong will to overcome it's beck and call. It seems as though Naruto will be burdened with such a bane." Orochimaru continued to explain.
Tsunade started to rub her temples as a migraine started to form. It was all too much to process, especially when there is always a big part of her that made her distrust Orochimaru for all he did. From experimenting on humans for his selfish goals, killing their sensei along with many citizens of the village and many more. Only to be pardoned for some help in the war along with being forced to be under surveillance when in the village's boundaries.
Still, Orochimaru hasn't gone senile nor become any dumb in the passing years. Tsunade hated it, because Orochimaru's theories and notes were the only reliable things anyone could work with.
"Leave my office. At the end of the day, he's still my patient and I have to decide what's best for him." Tsunade said as Orochimaru sank into the wall. "I hate it when he does that." she said while trying to calm down her headache.
Somehow, Tsunade found herself seeing a more annoying way to leave an office than by jumping through a window.
"What would you do if you were here Jiraiya?" Tsunade asked out loud.
A while later, with Siegfried
Siegfried was eventually released again, without his sword much to his ire. Apparently, the local government treated Soul Edge like it was a government document that is currently pended for approval. What kind of bureaucracy is this village running?
"What am I supposed to do now?" Siegfried asked himself.
Tsunade also suggested that he come back to the hospital at a later date. So for now, she suggested getting used to the village.
"Just great, I donk out and now I'm lost in some village. I wonder if Uzumaki was inconvenienced this often." Siegfried said as he tried to navigate around the village. "Luckily that doctor told me that Haganezuka-san was finished with Faust. Hopefully my old companion still has some strength in them." he said.
As Siegfried looked for TenTen's store. His mind drifted to Tsunade. He couldn't help but feel this warm, hostile and then warm again feeling about her. Maybe it was this odd feeling he had similar to Porlyusica gives him. The elderly medic is a caring person underneath that negative exterior she gives to everyone. Even going as far as to treat a young adult as her own daughter and raise that same woman's child as her own grandchild.
'I have to remember to write another letter.' Siegfried thought as he found the store.
Once inside, he found TenTen going through several of her products.
"Hello, TenTen-san?" Siegfried called out.
"Welcome back stranger, I was looking for you and heard Sasuke dragged you off somewhere. Then it got weird and nobody told me what's going on and… anyways. You wanted to see your sword right?" TenTen asked as she tried to hide her anxiety.
"Yes, how does Faust look?" Siegfried asked.
TenTen's eyes slowly moved away, "You interested in building up your arsenal by chance?" she asked, dodging the question.
Siegfried was not in the mood for games, "I want my sword back." he said.
"Are you sure you want that old thing?" TenTen asked.
"Do you want a series of one star reviews?" Siegfried threatened.
TenTen raised her arms up in defense, "Hey now, let's not get too hasty." she said as she walked into the back. Where she came back with Faust wrapped in a cloth, "Sorry to say this, but it's beyond repair. I doubt anyone else outside of the village or even the best blacksmiths in Tetsu no Kuni could fix this let alone make it sharp enough to cut anything." she explained.
Siegfried unwrapped Faust and sighed, "Faust is still strong, even if I can't use it in battle." he said before hanging it over his back again.
"I can literally make you a new one if you want. A strong warrior should define themselves by their weapons and styles they gain through experience." TenTen said.
"Wrong, the weapon a warrior wields or chooses to wield defines their character. Almost like a childhood friend or trusted companion. Faust has seen the best and worst of days." Siegfried said before turning around. "Only it seems like my sword is still hurt and cannot be healed through normal means." he said as he walked out.
TenTen went wide eyed from the response, "Was that guy a poet or something?" she asked.
Hotaru let out a loud exhale, "While I'm someone who hates the disrespect that sword has been through. That man gains my respect because of his love and loyalty towards that sword!" he exclaimed.
"Hotaru! I told you to take off that mask already!" TenTen yelled as her son yipped and started running away.
A few minutes later
Siegfried sighed as he found a place to sit and think to himself for a minute. Placing Faust to the side, he can see the heavy damage that Faust had taken in recent time. Of course, back when he was more green and lacked the experience he had when facing all of those individuals prior to facing Cervantes. Siegfried felt like he was at the top of the world as Faust stuck with him until the end. Even when Soul Edge's Evil Seed had spread defensively over various countries and when he was possessed by Nightmare for an extended period of time.
Even when he regained control, Faust was still there when he met the woman he loved and his closest friend.
'I hope Astolfo recovered by now. He's safer in his home than with me for the time being.' Siegfried thought as he traced his finger over Faust's cracks. 'I disrespected my weapon. It may not be sentient, but it has a degree of loyalty for lasting this long.' he thought as looked at the damage done to Faust.
"You have an interesting relationship with your weapon." said Orochimaru as he suddenly appeared.
Prompting Siegfried to stand up defensively, "You are that snake man from earlier." he said.
"I am and I see you can still move despite the recent incident yesterday. Tell me, what drives you?" Orochimaru curiously asked.
"I see no reason to answer your question." Siegfried said dismissing the sannin.
"You don't, but it intrigues me." Orochimaru said as he studied Siegfried's mannerisms with Faust. "As a kenjutsu user myself, it almost feels like a certain swordsman I was once acquainted with. Though, you seem to have more restraint." he explained.
Orochimaru could see that without being possessed, Siegfried is a mentally healthy person. At least healthy enough to function like an ordinary person. Though, there was this aura around him that reminded him of Kisame's thirst for blood yet Siegfried was a lot more calm compared to that brute.
"It's obvious that you have a high level of skill despite facing dangerous opponents." Orochimaru said as he analyzed Siegfried.
"I think that much should be obvious." Siegfried said challenging him.
"Then let's say this. Can you tell me what's the only other way two warriors can interact to the point they almost tell each other's life stories?" Orochimaru asked.
"Through battle obviously. A trade of blows is more than a few words, but that's more for brutes." Siegfried said in his opinion.
"Then how about a spar?" Orochimaru offered.
"What would have to gain from random fights?" Siegfried asked.
Orochimaru merely smiled, "Speak with me with your sword, preferably a working one, and you will know." he said.
'This guy's a creep.' Siegfried thought before begrudgingly accepting the challenge.
A while later, at a training field
Siegfried found himself being repeatedly crashing across the field. It didn't help that his body wasn't fully recovered from when he transformed. That and Orochimaru was a quick and focused fighter. At least the Azure Knight was able to block most of the blows with his sword and armor.
"Reduce your aggression. Your frustration will make you more dangerous but reckless at the same time." Orochimaru said as he went for a stab. Which Siegfried parried before head butting Orochimaru, "I say you are almost ready for a serious battle." he said as he suddenly disappeared.
Siegfried kept his guard up only to find his armor being slashed at. Then catching Orochimaru in a high sweep sending him into the air. The snake sannin quickly blocked every strike Siegfried tried to blow before kicking Siegfried away and landing safely.
"Your armor is good, but it's also good to improve your agility." Orochimaru said as he dashed at Siegfried. "No armor is impenetrable!" he exclaimed as he tore open the cuirass.
Siegfried found himself trying to slash at Orochimaru who blocked the sword with both hands. Causing him to hold his ground until he was able to find a good chance to kick Siegfried's exposed chest. Sending him crashing into a tree.
"You are good at reacting, but still too slow." Orochimaru said as Siegfried stood up.
"It sounds like you dragged me here to mock me." Siegfried said with a grunt.
"As I said, you are almost ready for a more serious battle. There is no more honor in this world, even in times of peace. So what is to stop different style of fighting in a regular kenjutsu battle?" Orochimaru asked as a snake came out from his sleeve.
"That's why I didn't use my clone magic or a magic sword." Siegfried said.
"That only made this test more perfect." Orochimaru said as watching Siegfried's base form helped his research.
"So I was a guinea pig then." Siegfried said.
"In a way, though it seems that Tsunade-hime is very concerned over your health." Orochimaru replied.
"Why does that doctor care so much?" Siegfried curiously asked.
Orochimaru turned around to think, "I think that's for you to find out on your own." he answered.
"Then I hope you got what you're looking for. This adventure was a waste." Siegfried said as his mission to Konoha was a bust.
"If it helps, you are more than likely getting your sword back. Though it's unfortunate that our current sealing knowledge is lacking. That sentient sword is a bit too powerful for our current abilities to restrain." Orochimaru explained.
"I better, that wrong people are looking for it." Siegfried said.
Orochimaru wanted to question him but didn't, "I see." he said.
Though it is natural for many people to seek out strange weapons or items. Either to strengthen themselves or to sell for money. Like the Nidaime's sword which was stolen by Aoi Rokusho. Even with it's power, the man was too weak and barely at jounin level. As a more skilled user would have likely turned him to dust with that sword.
A demon sword now? Not a lot of people would take that seriously and others covet power like Orochimaru did a few years ago. Though Orochimaru would likely have gone after Soul Edge for himself if he knew about gaining potential immortality. That or an extended life as Cervantes himself is nearly a century old, but is still in the body of a middle aged man.
"Then I don't suppose you mind explaining more about the sword. It would at least benefit us both to know of it's properties from letting your alter ego take over again." Orochimaru suggested.
"I'll consider it." Siegfried said as he sheathed his sword.
"One last thing, have you considered branching out into other sword styles?" the sannin asked.
"I thought about it, but I only have one regular sword." Siegfried answered. "I do not know a good sword style so I don't want to ruin the blade by screwing around." he continued.
"I see, I believe I think I can build up a good lesson plan. Though I am not very knowledgeable in using a zanbatou." Orochimaru said.
"What now?" Siegfried asked.
"Work on your speed and come back tomorrow." Orochimaru said before dissolving into mud.
"Eh!? I didn't sign up to be your teacher!" Siegfried yelled while pointing at the ground where Orochimaru once stood. Siegfried sighed, "He was right, I have to use everything in my arsenal." he said while thinking about his only regular sword.
After that, Siegfried left to wonder around the village. Before realizing he had nowhere to stay for until they gave him back Soul Edge. Maybe it was best to try and stay awake in case someone gets possessed.
"Maybe there's a good tree branch to support me." Naruto said to himself.
The next morning
Sarada's eye was twitching, "Chocho, for the last time. Uncle Choji is your dad and that's that!" she said.
"Are you sure you don't need your eyes examined girl?" Chocho asked as Sarada groaned.
"Troublesome, aren't we supposed to be looking for some kid?" Shikadai Nara asked.
"Why are we looking for them again?" Inojin Yamanaka asked.
"He's not a kid, he's like what? Two, maybe three years younger than us." Chocho said.
"It's still a kid." Inojin said with no care.
"Shut up already, I don't want to go looking for dad's new obsession all day." Sarada said.
"She's right." Shikadai said as she didn't want to go hunting for some stranger.
"That still begs the question, why are we looking for this person?" Inojin asked.
When they were distracted by the sound of a nearby explosion. Sarada and the current generation of the Ino-Shika-Cho ran to the sounds. Where they came across the sight of a battle at one of the nearby training grounds. Though it was pretty difficult to see who was fighting or what caused it exactly. As all they saw was a lot of dust clouds and the earth being ripped apart.
"What is going on now!?" Chocho asked.
"Shikadai, can you use a wind jutsu to clear up the dust?" Inojin asked while calmly ignoring the fighting.
Shikadai did not like that idea, "And what if they decide to focus on us next? Haven't you seen those animal documentaries where you can't interrupt a fight between two predators?" he asked.
Inojin looked impassive like his father, "We're not animals." he said.
A tick mark appeared on Shikadai's head, "I hate you." he said before pulling out a small retractable fan.
Using a medium wind technique, the dust cloud cleared up a bit to show the damaged training ground. However, they were able to see the combatants as the fight continued interrupted. It was Siegfried and he was fighting another Konoha shinobi who as wearing a strange red hat.
"Hey isn't that the guy?" Chocho asked.
"Yeah, but why is he fighting Iwabe? Actually, don't answer that." Sarada said with a sigh.
Inojin crossed his arms, "While it doesn't sound likely, Iwade probably started the fight." he said.
Iwade Yuino is a prideful shinobi of Konoha despite his ancestry tracing back to his grandfather in Kirigakure. Despite Iwabe skill in taijutsu and ninjutsu, he was a braggart and failed the exam a couple of times and only barely made it to the rank of chunin. While Iwabe is a powerhouse against opponents, he was still lacking in discipline despite being an adult.
"But why are they fighting?" Sarada asked with annoyance in her voice.
"Maybe that guy called Iwabe uncool." Inojin said as a lot of things can make Iwabe feel ticked off.
Flashback
Siegfried was just sleeping on a tree as he tied his legs to the branch to avoid falling. It was something he picked up after having to deal with a nasty flood a couple years back. Only now, it seems as though the least of his problems was a flood. As some irritable looking man slightly older than him.
"Hey! This isn't some hotel! This is a training ground for us ninja!" the man, later revealed to be Iwabe, yelled.
Siegfried groaned as he woke up, "For a ninja, silence is not your forte." he said.
Iwabe proceeded to draw his Jo and stab it into the ground. Using his skills in earth manipulation, Iwabe pulled out his weapon along with a chunk of the earth. Now wielding his weapon like a hammer, Iwabe smashed it against the tree causing it to go down. With Siegfried cutting himself free in time to jump away.
"What is your problem?" Siegfried asked as he summoned a weapon to his side.
Iwabe pointed at him angrily, "It's you tourists! After the war ended 12 years ago, all of you foreigners started coming here to mock us ninja! Coming here, taking photos like we're circus animals to entertain you!" he yelled.
"Ten years ago? Is that remotely right?" Siegfried asked.
By this point in time, the Fourth Shinobi War ended over 25 years ago. Clearly math was also this man's enemy among patience.
"Shut up! I think it's time you tourists in your place! We ninja are strong warriors, not the freak show!" Iwabe yelled as he ran straight towards Siegfried.
And from there, the battle ensued.
End of flashback
Siegfried decided to humor Iwabe, assuming him to just be some angry brute. However, while Iwabe did prove to have a lot of strength. He was still lacking and it wasn't anything new that Siegfried faced.
"You're tough, but I've battled tougher." Siegfried said as he skid against the crowd.
"No in my generation is more tough than me!" Iwabe yelled as he brought down his hammer.
Creating a giant wave of stones to run directly toward Siegfried. Siegfried moved out of the way as the path wasn't that big or fast. So he ran straight towards Iwabe who swung at him once he was close enough. Only to shatter Siegfried who turned into a pile of crystals.
"A clone jutsu?" Iwabe asked with wide eyes.
That's when he realized he was surrounded by 10 Siegfrieds. Iwabe raised up his hammer and smashed it into the ground, creating a big shockwave. However, each clone jumped into the air and aimed their swords at Iwabe.
"You talk all about being a fighter, but do you even have a reason to fight? Or is punching things you don't like all you live for?" Siegfried asked.
"I do! I-" Iwabe growled in frustration as he didn't have a proper answer. "I bet you don't either!" Iwabe accused.
Siegfried had brief flashes of his friends and family from Fairy Tail. That made him smirk for a moment. Even when Iwabe tried to blind him by throwing a smoke bomb into the ground to cover his position.
"McGarden Alberona Strauss." Siegfried muttered.
Initially thinking he had a chance to run and come up with a counterattack. Iwabe found himself being repeatedly struck from various points surrounding him. Before eventually finding himself being kicked hard enough to fly out of the smoke cloud he created.
"I guess Iwabe loses." Inojin commented.
"Not yet, that dunderhead hasn't learned anything yet." Chocho said as Iwabe tried to stand up.
"I'm not done yet." Iwabe said as he cracked his knuckles.
"Just give up, you can't be picking fights with everyone." Sarada said as she didn't want to put up with this crap any longer.
Iwabe rolled up his fists and ran straight as Siegfried who managed to block most of his attacks before being punched in the jaw. Making him roll away before coming to a halt. Siegfried quickly rolled away as Iwabe tried to kick him while he was down. The two then charged at each other with Iwabe landing a punch that didn't deal a lot of damage as Siegfried used the momentum to flip Iwabe over his back and slamming him into the ground.
That's when several strange blue lines were surrounding Siegfried's gauntlets. As he punched Iwabe hard enough to create a giant crater underneath him. When the dust cleared from the explosion Siegfried caused, the Azure Knight panted as he stepped back.
"I though Mrs. Uchiha was the only powerhouse." Chocho said with wide eyes.
"Troublesome, if this guy is a foreigner. It didn't mean he was weak." Shikadai said as everyone turned to look at him. "Look, we still know so little about the rest of the world. So with magic allegedly existing, there are abilities we don't know about. Like strength enhancement." he said as he saw the lines on Siegfried's armor disappear.
"I'm sorry, was he a friend of…"
"No." everyone immediately said.
"You didn't let me finish." Siegfried said.
"He's not our friend. He's a blockhead that thinks ninjutsu and strength are all you need to be a ninja." Chocho said as she looked at Iwabe's unconscious body.
"Should I expect a hospital bill?" Siegfried asked.
"Forget it, he'll walk it off later." Sarada said not caring.
Siegfried sighed, "Okay, though that guy had to be the most annoying man in existence." he said.
Meanwhile in the future
Siegfried stood in front of God Serena who laughed like a maniac, "You have to be the most annoying man in existence." he said.
Back to the past
As the group walked away with Siegfried. Orochimaru watched the fight unfold from the trees. Even while hanging upside down, the snake sannin could see that Siegfried was far from being a pushover. Though it would help if the young man fought someone stronger and with more intelligence.
"Perhaps I can ask for a spar between Sarada-chan and Sieg-san." Orochimaru said as he saw more talent in the Uchiha heiress. "Oh well, I will see them at the new residence later. Though this display of power only adds more to my research." he said.
While Orochimaru did accept that he needed to study Siegfried's base skills. It did help to see what other abilities he had besides cloning himself and manipulating fire while in Nightmare form.
Later at the Uchiha residence
Sakura served Siegfried a plate of tea, "I was wondering what happened to you." she said.
"I slept in a tree." Siegfried said.
Sakura sighed, 'I bet your old self would consider doing that.' she thought.
"So why am I here again?" Siegfried asked.
"Tsunade Shishio wanted us to keep an eye out for you. Especially with what happened the other day." Sakura answered.
"I feel like there's more to it and you don't want to say anything." Siegfried said as the air felt tense.
"I think you should get used to the lack of honesty." Sarada said.
"What's her problem?" Siegfried asked. "Oh right." he said remembering his talk from the other day.
Quick reminder, for all of Sakura's faults and issues as a youth. She's the good parent in this family much to Sasuke's denial.
"So what was up with the guy in the red hat?" Siegfried asked.
Sakura looked confused until Sarada explained it, "He ran into Iwabe." she said.
"Oh." Sakura said. "Iwabe is… a bit of a troublemaker. He's the opposite of another friend named Rock Lee." she said preparing to explain who Lee is.
"The crazy guy in the spandex?" Siegfried asked.
"I see you ran into him." Sakura said.
"And I don't want to do it again." Siegfried replied. "Anyways, has anyone said anything about my sword? I didn't exactly come here to be assaulted and robbed." He asked.
Sakura sighed, "I think that's up to someone else. Though I doubt Tsunade shishio has the authority since she's retired and Kakashi sensei…" she said sighing again. "…you're in for a frustrating wait." she said as Siegfried face palmed.
"Coming to this village was a mistake." Siegfried said.
Sakura frowned hearing that while Sarada didn't pay attention. Things have been going crazy lately and she doesn't understand any of it. Then again, she's not sure if being able to try and understand it will help anything.
"I'm sure you are very eager to return home. Is there any family waiting for you?" Sakura asked.
Even if this was Naruto, a part of Sakura's mind. The more mature one specifically. Is telling her that she can't force Naruto to stay and pretend nothing happened. No, that level of naivety is something Sakura has outgrown.
"I Haven't seen my grandparents in about three years. They're still probably worried sick." Siegfried admitted. "Though that's probably the least of my problems." he said.
"Did something happen?" Sakura asked.
Siegfried silently stared at his tea in silence for a few moments. Sarada rolled her eyes thinking Siegfried was in an uncomfortable position to talk. Just as Sakura was ready to drop the subject. Siegfried spoke up again, almost as if he could feel some sense of trust. It was strange, for a brief moment. Siegfried almost felt like Sakura was some colleague he knew for years.
Maybe he felt too trusting.
"Do you remember when you saw my back?" Siegfried asked. Sakura nodded, "It started when I saved someone I cared about." he said.
Elsewhere
Orochimaru stood over one of the attackers that attacked the Uchiha family the other day. Only this time, Orochimaru killed this one after having a brief scuffle. However, what was ood is how animalistic the aggressor was when it came to fighting. Now standing with him, is Sasuke who tried to confront him about something else.
"How odd, despite lacking much free will and thought. They were never meant to act so aggressive. It was like dueling a wild dog." Orochimaru explained.
"You made these, didn't you?" Sasuke asked.
"I assume you did not confront me about this." Orochimaru said as he can easily read his former student. "But which do you want to know more about Sasuke-kun? That I took an interest in Sieg-san or these creatures?" he asked.
"What are these things and what are they up to?" Sasuke asked as he skipped his initial question.
"I have a few ideas, however the mystery to me is why this one ended up here." Sasuke answered.
"What does that mean?" Sasuke asked.
Orochimaru proceeded to reveal a secret compartment that was covered in many seals and chains. Where inside, the snake sannin kept Soul Edge restrained. Only allowing Sasuke to look at the demonic sword for a few seconds before closing it and sealing it again.
"That is all you are allowed to see. I'm afraid I was almost trapped in it's strange illusion world." Orochimaru said.
"It's not an illusion, it's almost like Kaguya's dimensions. Only the dimension is within the sword." Sasuke replied.
Orochimaru nods, "I see, a good thing that I avoided it then." he said. "Though thinking about it, I do not know how but it is possible that the sword possibly possessed this boy." he said as he pointed at the dead body.
"Are you telling me that monster from the other day tried to take over someone else?" Sasuke asked.
"Quite possibly, however I doubt Shin is after the sword. If anything, he's likely unable to tame it." Orochimaru said.
Sasuke shook his head, "Forget the sword for now. Who is Shin?" he asked.
"To keep it short, a fanboy of Itachi's. I admit, not all of my experiments are glamorous and Shin must be one of my worst if he tries to imitate what he can never be." Orochimaru said before explaining his experiment.
That afternoon, with Sakura
Sakura decided to let Siegfried have some fresh air and get a better view of Konoha. The pink haired woman snorted thinking that if it were her Naruto, he would cheer up after eating some ramen. Then again, this was someone else so a bowl of noodles probably isn't enough. With what she learned, Siegfried is a lot more intelligent compared to Naruto.
It probably helps when has a proper upbringing instead of being left alone.
"I guess life is happier in Ishgar for the most part." Sakura thought as she cleaned up. "I always suggested we visit there, but damn it. I'm not allowed to have a vacation." she said to herself.
Still, Sakura could only wonder what brought Siegfried to Konoha in the first place. If what Sasuke and the other said is true and somehow Naruto did resurrect as an entirely different person. It was too coincidental that he shows up here of all places.
"The world can't be that small, can it?" Sakura asked before hearing a knock at the door. "Hold on!" she said.
Sakura needed another minute to finish. However, the person knocking at the door was the least patient person in the world. So after hearing a lot more aggressive knocks. Sakura was ready to punch off her visitor's head.
"I said to hold on!" Sakura yelled as she opened the door.
Where she came across a walking horror show with the Sharingan implanted into it's body. Without needing to think twice or register the fact that the visitor is wearing an Akatsuki cloak. Sakura used the full force of her strength to punch her visitor.
In the village
Sarada sighed as Siegfried was having to beat the crap out of Iwabe, "This guy never learns." she said. That's when she saw the explosion in the distance, "And I think I'm going to be homeless by this point." she said.
Siegfried dropped Iwabe, "No, that's a bad sign." he said.
"I know, it was my humor trying to kick in." Sarada said.
"Cute." Siegfried said before grabbing Sarada and running towards her apartment.
"Hey! Don't grab me like that!" Sarada said with a blush forming around her cheeks.
Present Time
Levy sighed as she finished another leader.
"…it just felt like trouble followed me everywhere. I hope you and the guild are in safe hands Levy. Maybe, just maybe I'll come back home to you and everyone else."
"Naruto, what were you up to?" she asked as she put away the latest letter she read.
Sitting in her room, Levy sighed as she tried thinking about her brother. Since Siegfried has been actively trying to avoid talking about his curse. Thinking about it now, Levy remembered approaching him one day and asked him a big question.
"Just who are you?"
And of course, her brother gave a big answer.
"Me? I'm Naruto, just Naruto. Whoever I am or was before, I'm the same Naruto you know. Even if I act different or seem like someone else. I'll always be your big brother and you and the rest of Fairy Tail. Will always be my family."
Those words did give her some comfort. However, Levy did remember something and as much as she doesn't like the idea. Levy knew that she needed to get her brother to open up.
The next day
With everyone still out on missions on the past couple of days. Levy approached Erza who was eating her cake. As if this act alone is a sign of peace and order within the imbalance of Fairy Tail. For disrupting this, would create armageddon. However, Erza wouldn't go on an amgru rampage just because someone walked up and spoke to her.
"Hello Levy, can I help you?" Erza asked.
Levy took a deep breath before looking Erza in the eye, "Erza, a part of me still hates you for what you did. Heck, a part of me still dislikes Mira, but at least she repented." she started to say. Now Mirajane was listening closely, "But I want to put aside those negative feelings. My brother is heavily damaged and him bottling it all up is going to make it worse." she explained.
"What are you trying to tell me Levy?" Erza asked.
Levy sighed, "I want to help you and Mira prepare for your fight." she said.
"What?" Erza asked with a confused face.
"Mira is still learning to fight again and Naruto has a lot of techniques and defenses you need to prepare for. Whereas I have been able to study him lately." Levy explained.
"Levy are you sure? Won't Naruto get mad if you go behind his back?" Erza asked.
"Also, why help us? You said you don't like us in general." Mira asked.
Levy sighed again, "I overheard your talk about the deal you made with Naruto. He'll only open up if you beat him in a fight. So, you will need everything you have to come close to winning." she answered.
"That is true." Erza said.
"Then it's settled! Welcome aboard Levy!" Mira said before discussing a team plan.
Unknown to them, Shukaku was spying on them, "Traitor, I wonder how the kid will take it." He said before deciding to snitch for Siegfried.
TO BE CONTINUED…
QA With Xiaomei
?: Hello there, I apologize on the behalf of the author. Certain events could not be controlled and thus, this story was meant to be uploaded over a week ago. I am glad you are all still here as we will to present another chapter before January ends. My goodness, I forgot, Happy New Year to you all! For those of you who have forgotten me already, I am Xiaomei and I will be answering questions at least until the end of the Konoha arc.
Question #1: Siegfried? Does King Toma Pay you well? How much is your salary? And what are the benefits of working directly for the king and not having to answer to the Magic Council Elders? (Guest)
Xiaomei: Firstly, Siegfried does not have to worry about someone judging his every action. His pay is often the same despite certain situations and that gets tricky when it comes to his coma and other incidents. However, King Toma is still strict on his rules but does not shadow or have someone shadow Siegfried at every moment. Meaning he is less restricted to eliminate dark mages without restraint. Though the pay is as much as one would normally pay a police officer, how unfortunate.
Question #2: Will Siegfried ever have control over Soul Edge? (Spellbat)
Xiaomei: I have my personal doubts, though some of it's power is not completely impossible to master or at least control. The chaos magic and other abilities Nightmare has are very powerful indeed and very useful. We will have to see how those abilities unfold.
Question #3: Siegfried, are you prejudiced against dark mages or is it their fault for being criminals? (Guest)
Xiaomei: I think Siegfried would ask you a similar question. Only about cockroaches and diseased rodents being the same as dark mages.
Question #4: Mirajane? If you like Siegfried that much, then why don't you try to talk to him about it and win his affections like a normal person? Or is the mighty Demon Mirajane just a scared little girl?
Xiaomei: Unfortunately, while I showed this question to Mirajane. She started sobbing right away and I could not receive a proper answer to respond on her behalf. I assume Mirajane has no concept of love and thus decided bullying made sense when she's just a sad little tsundere. A very territorial one at that.
Question #5: Who's the most annoying person Siegfried knows?
Xiaomei: While he has no love for Lyon or Iwabe, God Serena is Siegfried's least favorite person in existence. Now, time for the Kingdom of Fiore Secret!
Secret: It is unknown if this is merely for the modern generation, but in truth. Mirajane does not know how to cook for herself and neither do the other Fairy Tail girls. Mordred obviously had developed skill in culinary arts, but that's because she had to raise Laxus since he was a baby. Making her the only other person besides Porlyusica who can make food. Nab is secretly cooking most of the guild's orders as he never picks out a job but needs to make his rent. Next Time! Chapter 21! Blind!