Page Four
Amaterasu's Office
The Sun Goddess was silently contemplating the story she was just told of the one known as Sage within her domain at present. Amaterasu knew his true name but would never utter it aloud as there is no telling who could be listening. It was a strange thing for the shinigami to insist on, but she would not argue over something so trivial.
Amaterasu understood now that he was certainly not a threat to them, no, but indirectly he is. His very presence within the Shinto Pantheon's domain had already prompted that arrogant man to send his daughter. The same daughter currently sitting behind their bars.
Holding that thought for now, she also pondered whether she could offer this sage a position in her court. After all, thanks to Tsukuyomi's actions they had an opening. Then again, she is likely not the only one who to have that idea. Plus, the part of the deal that shinigami had given in order to learn about him was that he not be pressed into service.
Frowning at that, Amaterasu sighed as she looked up from her paperwork. Then off to the side of her desk where her new mirror was showing the location of said sage. She was tracking him when she could. It was a conscious effort to do so, and if she focused it too much, he would sense it and vanish again meaning she'd have to start all over again.
He truly is a shinobi of that world.
Letting out a tight breath, the sun goddess thought on the world in question. It's in shinigami's roster as apparently there was a clan there that intrested him, one that the Sage belonged too. Capable of being your best friend, or absolute nightmare given physical form.
The rest of the inhabitants however, they are indeed at peace as per that world's prophecy, but it was twisted. Warped in a way that even the shinigami had not predicted. They were united by Naruto, fought beside him against a primordial god, the bigger threat.
The second that was over they ejected the boy, and he became their enemy. The sacrifice's made for his freedom were great and have clearly taken their toll. He was jumpy. Paranoid beyond belief. Distrustful of all but his own. Yet even after all the heartache and tragedy he has experienced. He is still willing to lend a hand.
Amaterasu knew that, if they were ever in true and undeniable danger, the sage will be the first to step up. The problem is that he will also be the first to vanish once said danger had passed. Not seeking rewards or glory. Just doing the right thing.
They are safe as long as he walks her lands. Though, if anyone else from that world makes it here, she herself will end them, and their final sight will be of her black flames.
Underworld
Stepping into the room, Akeno finds her best friend dressing herself. Or at least attempting to. Rias had not gotten back use of legs. She trying to pull up sweatpants, one after the next. Just before she let out a growl in her frustration, Akeno appears and wordlessly helps out. One leg at a time.
After the drama had been settled, Rias looks to her friend and offers a smile, hoping it looked genuine. It didn't but Akeno didn't seem like she wanted to point it out as the heiress asks. "So, Akeno. What's the latest?"
Akeno takes a seat on the side of the bed and looks to her friend before informing her of the latest. "Well – it seems that Menma was sighted in Kouh."
Rias shuddered at the thought, but before she could reply, Akeno continued. "Twice. The first time was at Issei's house."
Rias gasped. "Is…"
Akeno cut her off smiling, taking up her friend's hand whilst interrupting her. "Yes. Miki is fine. In fact, she was rather impressed with his kindness and willingness to help her with her shopping."
Rias raised a brow, clear disbelief written over her face and the ravenette nodded at that, Akeno stating. "Yes. That was our reaction too. Apparently, he was lost and confused. She found him and asked for help. He smiled and did so wordlessly."
The Gremory chuckle shaking her head in disbelieving that woman, Rias stating. "How does she get away with asking for anything from one of the most dangerous people in recent history for help with groceries."
Akeno giggled at that nodding, saying. "Kiba was just as bewildered. She didn't stop talking about him for a good hour. Everything from his smile to his old-fashioned accent and mannerisms."
Rais chuckled lightly nodding, "Yeah. I noticed that too. Though, Menma's ID looked like that to, so it's to be expected."
The redhead suddenly found herself in an embrace from her most loyal friend. She was confused for all two seconds before Akeno whispered. "I know it's hard, Rias. I promise you things will get better. I swear on it."
Rias gripped the miko outfit wearing friend of hers. No, her sister from another mister, with all her might and tears fell. Tears fell unseen by all. Though, one former dragon host heard as he was at the door. Each tear increased his rage. Each tear set his goal. Menma will pay for hurting his bucho.
Issei hadn't known this yet, but this choice would lead him to an ending where the one he wished to protect would be the one he opposed.
After an unspecified amount of time, I wasn't allowed to say, Rias had calmed down, and laid back into her seat with puffy eyes and cheeks before asking, "What about the second sighting? You said he was spotted twice."
Akeno nodded, but before she said anything she discreetly created a small sound proofing barrier. This got a raised brow from her king. Rias has never seen Akeno be the sneaky before. What could be so important that she didn't want anyone else to hear or know of.
Letting out a deep breath Akeno states. "There were unconfirmed reports for the first few hours, but less than an hour ago they were confirmed."
The seriousness was not lost on Rias who inclined her head to continue. Akeno does so, saying. "Menma fought against the goddess Artemis."
Rias's eyes widen in shock. Two reasons for this. Firstly, Menma fought against a bonified goddess. Second, that a Greek goddess was operating in Shinto territory. Wars have started for less. She asks promptly. "Who won?"
Akeno sighed but answered anyway. "We don't know. By the time our teams got there, they were both gone."
Rias then asks. "Where did this happen?"
Akeno replied swiftly, "Kouh. A top a housing complex on the near the centre of town."
Rias was natrually concerned. The fact that a seemingly rogue god came looking for the sage in Kouh and that both clashed means that the likely hood of them returning without significant guard presence is unlikely.
The council would never allow that.
Akeno cut into her friend's thoughts with. "Rias. I have a plan, and I need you to promise me something."
Rias locked into her friend's purple eyes; her sea-green eyes hard with more steel than Akeno has seen since this all began. The heiress asks seriously. "Akeno, what are you planning?"
Akeno stays silent for a few moments, silently gathering her resolve to offer her friend and sister that answer. She did after the ten second mark and spoke. "I will find him. Bring him here and have him heal you. I know, this is dangerous, I know you don't like me going and potentially getting hurt or worse, killed…"
Rias remained silent, allowing her queen to take a breath, gripping her gown to gather herself. Akeno then takes up something out of her pocket and reveals it to the redhead who gasps, the priestess continues. "I have been studying this. I don't know what it does exactly, but I think I have a way of tracking him with it."
Looking from the cloth to her best friend, Akeno continues. "If I tell the Satan's they'll gather a large number army and give chase. That will either lead to a slaughter, or he'll destroy this and then run again. That's why I will go alone. I need you to trust in me, Rias."
The plea was not lost on the king of the peerage, and the fact that she was doing this for her, Rias was truly gifted with a sister who loved her. The downside was clear however, her brother will likely never approve of this but if Akeno said she could be healed…
Taking a deep breath, taking up her friend's hand, Rias says softly. "I trust you, Akeno. If you think you can do this, I will not stop you. Just – just keep me informed on your whereabouts and if you ever need help…"
The rest went unsaid, and Akeno nodded with a smile, saying. "I understand, Rias. I promise I will come back to you."
Rooftop in Kouh
Seria watches as her squad looks over the cracked rooftop with a critical eye, trying to put together what exactly happened here. From what she can tell that Sage was here when he released his power. All the cracks lead to the single point near the centre.
From Gabriel's report the man has a shakujō when entering his full power mode which explains the cracked concrete that spiders outward from the small hole. Looking to the back at the wall she stood besides, Seria notes another minor signature, almost nonexistent, and it was not that of Artemis. No. This one was dark, really dark.
There was a second celestial on this rooftop.
From what the other archangels have told her; the Sage confronted the Greek goddess of the moon here. From what they saw, the sage had originally been held at bow point but upon him uncapping his power and forming of his weapon Artemis had lost the will to fight.
What the angel of death was confused on however, was the presence of the Shinigami. Where does the Shinto reaper comes into all this. Was it alone? Did the other Shinto deities arrive? That would make sense if they did not know that the Greek goddess was here.
Seria feels like there is a missing piece of multiple somethings, and for the life of her she can't tell what it is nor why she thinks that. Just something was missing from this picture.
She was brought out of her thoughts by her daughter, Xenovia reporting. "Lady mother. The amount of celestial power here is projected to be rather high. If we take the decay rate we have observed and apply it to the time frame, there were five gods here."
Seria nodded but corrected her, "If we add Artemis and this unknown…"
She gestured to the general area she was standing beside which caused Xenovia to question herself mentally, they did not detect anything there but if her mother said there was then there was. Simple child-parent logic.
Xenovia jots that down, and nods, saying. "Then we have seven and the sage. We would have finished sooner but…"
Both look across the rooftop where numerous birds have been gathering and pestering the other exorcists, who were trying to work and avoid harming the nesting birds who were still trying to build nests, as even the air seemed cleaner here too.
The angel of death just nodded as she watched Irina duck beneath a few songbirds, Seria finally says. "It is fine. It is clear that the Sage has made an effort to hide his tracks after leaving here. Something spooked him. Might be this signature but I cannot be certain."
Xenovia just nods along with the arch angel she calls her mother, not asking the stupid nor predictable questions. Her mother was far more experienced than her in this field, just learn what she could from this experience and become better at it in the future.
Finally, Seria looks up at her daughter, who stiffens, as she orders. "We are done here for now. Nothing we can do without a trail to track."
She pauses for a moment, before correcting herself. "Actually, no. We will investigate this area for anything that might indicate what he was looking for here. We thought he was in Kyoto with the Youkai. That is clearly not the case."
The other exorcists nodded to their new orders, ready to get off this roof and out of attack range of the aerial assault of the avian population. Seria pushing off the building's cement waist tall ledge, announcing. "Let us depart. We are done here."
Kouh Forest
The night after the church forces arrived, another seeker arrived in the forest directly beside the town, who was guided by her own connection to nature. Kuroka the stray has been on this trail for a while now. She was originally planning on going to Kyoto; however, their security had stiffened up significantly and she dared not tempt them.
So, when she felt that beacon of energy a day and a half ago now, she decided to come and check it out. If it was the Sage, then she needed to understand why he was here and try predicting his mindset to try and cut him off. This was of paramount importance to her specifically.
During her travels, Kuroka had heard via the grape vine that this sage had apparently found a way to remove his Rook piece. A mutated Rook piece of the Gremory Heiress. This excited her as maybe, just maybe, if Kuroka was lucky enough and explained her own plight, this Sage might take out hers too.
It was a long shot but that is what she is hoping for.
On the other hand, Kuroka had also heard about the other members of the Gremory Peerage and their fate. Her Shirone was injured, a broken femur. That brought a frown to her face. She was mad that the Sage had dared to lay a hand on her precious little Shirone. Though, even she would admit that the situation probably didn't permit him to take it easy on anyone.
Not even her cute little Shirone. She is mad, yes. Without a doubt. However, a small part of her, just a small part mind you. A small part understands he did not have a choice. Pair that with the fact that it was only one broken bone compared to the others in the group, and the Sitri peerage who were manhandled far harsher than her little Shirone.
She was thankful that the Sage only broke a bone as it was clear that he had held back.
Kuroka froze. Her paw still in the air as she glanced into the shadows around her. Someone, no. Multiple eyes on her. Focusing her senjutsu, she realises she was now surrounded.
Lowering her paw, twin tails still, the black cat began to back up whilst lowering her centre of gravity, as from under the shadows of the fallen tree off to her two o'clock came out a stalking fox. Its eyes fixed on her. Kuroka did not have to ponder this long as from her rear left, another pounced on her and were it not for her numerous years on the run, she would have fallen into that.
The second the fox passed below her abrupt acrobatics display, Kuroka found herself twirling around the second one's pounce but this time her senjutsu saved her as she lashed out with a back kick. A kick that managed to land on the fox's nose, knocking it off course enough for he to land again,
With all feet on the ground, Kuroka sped off in somewhat disbelief as the two foxes chasing her had been joined by another two pairs off to her flanks, running parallel with her. She ducks, and weaves, yet they remained alongside her. Since when street foxes have a sense for pack tactics.
As they closed the box in formation, Kuroka had to think quickly. The two beside her are preparing to cut her off, if she recalls this formation properly.
Just as her hunter's pounce, Kuroka darted up the same tree they had tried to use to block her path. She ran and kept running up the tree until she passed by the leaves a good three quarters of the way up.
Now safely up the tree, Kuroka took a moment to try and understand that someone, somehow, somewhere, had taught these foxes pack tactics and trap setting. This tree, had she been a normal cat, would have trapped her escape from their subsequent attack.
When she finds out who the fuck taught these foxes something so fucking dangerous, she'll shove her claws down their throat before slicing it open.
In the sealed space, Kurama suddenly peaked an eye open as he chuckled deeply, and filled with amusement, gaining Isobu's attention seeing as he was the only one awake right now. The turtle is on watch tonight. After half a minute the fox closes his eye again and promptly falling asleep again.
Amaterasu's Office
Shinigami enters the Sun Goddess's office and spots her looking at her new viewing mirror. Though, at current it seems that brunette with golden red eyes wore a frown with her eagle like expression was anything to go by.
A throat clearing broke the leader of the Shinto pantheon from her displeasure, looking up at the lord of death, with a raised brow before facing him and regaining her regal posture. "This is certainly a surprise, Lord Shinigami. Twice in so few days."
The incarnation of death took no offence as it just shrugged before replying. "I just wanted to inform you that I will be guiding the Sage into a certain direction for both our safety, and his mental wellbeing. He will remain within our domain but will be out of the way for a little bit."
The leader of the holy Shinto trinity was surprised at that, wasn't she warned about doing just that not even a full day ago. Yet, she felt that she needed to voice this and thus Amateurasu asks. "Why are you…?"
Shinigami sensed this coming a mile off and raised its deathly hand, stopping her before replying simply. "I am the patron god of his clan, Lady Amateurasu. It is my duty in that regard. I am about to embark on a journey back to his home world as I wish to check more thoroughly of the fate of the scattered remnants. If they have been scattered further or wiped out, I wish to know how and why."
The goddess of the sun had no counter as that was indeed his right, though this was also a first as none have ever heard of the shinigami claiming to a patron of anyone prior to this. Her guest continued, unaware of her trail of thoughts. "That being said, it is why I am guiding him now as I will be unavailable to aid him until my return. Thus, my guiding hand to a safe location. He will likely figure it out himself before I return but I will confront him should he ask for answers."
Amaterasu inclined her head briefly, understanding what was not said, "Very well. I shall keep an eye on him during your absence."
Shinigami smirked knowingly but remained silent before turning around and departing silently as a ghost.
Olympus
The Eleven remaining Olympian, plus one, watched as Apollo's recording of the fight between Artemis and her Hunters against the Sage. There were several times however where even Apollo lost sight if the sage, only to catch him later on, but they saw how he slipped and slinked through the forest. They missed the brief meeting with Nyx and only saw a fuzzy glimpse of his power up before Amateurasu blocked Apollo
By the end of it, there was a mix of emotions in chamber.
Surprisingly it was Demeter who spoke first, looking at her youngest brother Zeus saying. "We need him."
Athena spoke next, leaning forward as she studied the projection Apollo was maintaining in the centre. "What does that script say?"
Ares chuckled as his bloodlust raises, grinning feral while gripping his chair's rests. "I want to fight him. He seems like a good fighter."
Hephaestus was thoughtful, speaking with clear interest, "Those weapons. What kind of material was able to cut through the arrows of celestial power like that?"
Athena only then realised that, and nodded to her brother, "You make a good point. We need to get our hands on some of it to understand that. They could be dangerous to us."
Apollo added, "His combat style seemed to revolve around fast past movement, precisely aimed but damaging surprise attacks, and a heavy reliance on stealth. He crippled but did not kill."
Ares chuckled deeply, looking to the blond and nodded. "They were not worth it. He knew that. Kept them out the fight with those attacks. Artemis would have lost if he went all out against them all."
Athena looked to the bloodlust incarnate and was forced to agree with a grim nod, saying. "He did not retreat because he would have lost, but rather because he was not interested in being forced to strike in anger. That much is obvious."
Dionysus watched them all discuss things surprisingly calmly, but that might be because his father was clearly contemplating this carefully without any outbursts. Him actually thinking things over is a scary prospect but what was bugging the wine god, however, was the movements this sage was making. He moved with practiced ease in a familiar way.
In recent years there are many veterans, and the way this Sage moved was reminiscent of them meaning he has survived something world shattering. For him at least. Likely experiencing heightened levels of stress, paranoia, anxiety, and depression. Dionysus fears those types. If pushed and they stop holding themselves back their own demons only bad things will be the result and with this sage able to go toe-to-toe with them, that can be a very dangerous situation they are playing with.
Demeter cut through the gods thoughts, bellowing. "The life force he emitted was bountiful and almost unending. We need him to either help Pan, or…"
Zeus finally spoke up, cutting his sister off, "Enough. We will await Artemis's report. I want to know exactly what happened, what that brief power surge was, and the nature of it, before we make our move."
Demeter frowned at the order, clearly upset at the order of not moving but she was not the only one. Though Dionysus was extremely thankful for the slow, methodical approach his father was taking, he and the others missed that there was another who might have to be restrained.
After all, we have a strong male who was on par with them as gods, running around and kicking ass unaccompanied. He showed not an ounce of lust nor concern for his opponents, that were all girls, thus believed in equality of both genders. Clearly had an affinity with wind, like they did, and most likely had a god killing body beneath that cloak and armour.
Oh yes, mummy likes.
Okinawa Prefecture
Two months later…
People were going about their business, enjoying their holiday on the pristinely kept beaches, and having fun making family memories under the bright blue skies, and perfect amount of sunshine.
None would have predicted you could find a sage, nine Youkai-like beings, and a dragon were helping run a family open plan beachside bar for an elderly couple. Their kids had moved to the mainland sometime ago and the Sage was exploring the island in an attempt to stay low six weeks ago.
One thing led to another then another and the sage stayed back whilst one of his 'sisters' happened to be a former doctor from Tokyo. She tended to the old man's strained back and then stumbled upon an acute tuberculosis in his wife.
The family was nice enough to take over their café/bar for them allowing them to recover peacefully. Since then, the couple would spend the time with each other and recover with a personal doctor with around the clock care, letting their guests run the shop in their stead and a place to stay, no questions asked.
As such, with another beautiful day within the bar of Beki's Coral, one black-haired, black-eyed man, dressed in short sleeve white shirt, tanned three quarter lengths, and unusual sandals behind the bar. Currently, he can be seen wiping down cocktail glasses with a dish cloth whilst staring out at the crashing waves. His mind was elsewhere, clearly, as things have long since gotten quiet.
Too quiet.
His thoughts were broken through, at the arrival of one of his family members, a short, blue shoulder length haired woman, pale skin, and a cute face but what was unique about her was her mix-matched eyes of yellow and green. She dropped down on one of the stools, and spoke, "Say, Naru-kun, why don't you come and sunbathe with us?"
The man let out a heavy sigh, muttering back. "Mata. The names Narian here, remember. You guys wanted me to take it easy, to stop and help, and I have put off my anxiety about this so at least stay in character to help me relax, no?"
She grinned, that cat-like grin he was familiar with, that spoke of her teasing nature as she replied. "Fine, fine… I get it. Though, I am still amazed at how long you've lasted."
Naruto grunted, before placing the cup down on the rack, glancing back at the woman, Matatabi continued. "It's been two weeks since Kurama left. Is he doing well?"
Her host nodded, as he reached for the bottles of alcohol on the top shelf, Naruto continued. "Yeah. That skulk has grown on him. Their coordination flawless. Last night they took down a stray devil. He bragged for most the hour."
Matatabi snorted, shaking her head at that fact. "I bet. How are our hosts doing?"
Naruto gestured with his head to the door where a pale skinned, thickness given form, white hair that was braided down her back to her knees, a woman with sparkling silver eyes strolled in from the upstairs door in a white bikini top-skirt combo. Upon spotting her sister and now having heard the questions context, she spoke. "Just to be safe, they'll be right as rain in a week. Though, I think they are just faking it to have more time off."
Matatabi smirked, looking at the human-form of her favorite slug. "I bet."
Saiken joined the duo, sitting on the stool beside Matatabi looked over at her host. "Why? Still having problem, Narian?"
Naruto closes the ice cube fridge and rises to his feet before looking at the silver eyed woman and states. "Yes. Seeing as the on-season is almost upon us, we really should get moving. It's been six weeks since we set up shop and I really don't like being stationary this long."
Saiken sighs as she drops her head into her palm, elbow supporting it as she replies. "I'll return to the seal tonight. Check your levels again."
Naruto frowned, replying. "Or, you know? We can leave?"
A new voice from a man entering. "I second that."
All three glance back, the women over their shoulder, to see a tall man with a clear runner's physique, spike white hair currently holding sunglasses, a round face and hard brown eyes.
Matatabi spoke flatly. "Of course you do, Kokuo. You're influence on Naru is pretty well established at this point."
The man shrugged approaching the trio, Kokuo stating. "Well it's a positive thing. Kept us off the radar this long. This island is too small for a good run."
Saiken lets out a tight breath, replying. "Your idea of a good run is like two hundred kilometres. You'll tear that temporary body to pieces of you keep this up."
Kokuo shrugged carelessly as Naruto hands him a bottle of water from the fridge. He takes a sip before replying. "It is a good idea to test the limits of these enhanced nature clones. We lack most of our raw power in them so knowing their limits is the best way to understand how to defend ourselves."
Naruto replied to that, as he checks on the barrel connections beneath the bar, "Although I approve, I must ask you not to take that too seriously. It'll be a long time before I allow you to do combat in those things."
Standing back up after rescuing the last tap, Naruto looks over at them all. "Those bodies of yours aren't perfect and without Kurama here to help with the yin-yang balance, creating new ones will be a long time off. Keep that in mind."
All three nodded, understanding that, so he continued. "Anyway, please remind Isobu that I expect him back tonight, and Shukaku is not to start another war with the holiday kids. Last thing we need is a game of Sand Fortress two on our hands."
Matatabi giggled as she leaned forward, saying. "I swear you worry too much."
Naruto glared at her, replying. "Because you are all too carefree. The second Kurama leaves you guys are all over the place."
Another new voice, saying. "He has a very good point there."
The two ladies groan at that voice, glancing back as Kokuo nodded to the two men who entered, with classic body builders with darker tanned skin, carrying supplies in from the shed. Naruto replying. "Thank you Gyūki. Son Goku. These three just don't get it."
The ginger bearded Son Goku, chuckled lightly, "Of course they don't. All they do is have fun mingling with the humans all day long, like they've wanted to ever since father passed."
Gyūki nodded as they drop the small kegs on to the floor beside Naruto, who moved them into position to replace the low batch. He added. "Without proper supervision, they'd probably getting all crazy and forget about the rest of us."
Saiken pouted, puffing her cheeks. Matatabi just narrowed her eyes on the hulk figure of the eight-tails human form. Kokuo just shrugged. "Probably."
Naruto muttered as he pulls out one of the soon to be replaced kegs. "At least your honest Kokuo."
Said five tails just shrugged, Kokuo stating blandly. "You'd just force dispel me if I lied."
Naruto paused and looked at the man, before smiling sweetly. "Oh? You make me sound like a dictator when you word it that way. Surely, you don't mean that, right?"
All the human looking beasts on the island gulped at that tone, even the ones who hadn't heard it directly felt it and followed their hidden protocol. Ever since they tried the enhanced yin-yang release clones, at Kurama's insistence, Naruto has been developing certain traits. A mother hen type trait. They were his kids. He treated them like kids.
Some didn't mind, mainly Isobu and Shukaku. Some managed to be promoted to irresponsible teenagers, Saiken and Matatabi. A few got to be the responsible teenagers, mainly Son Goku, Gyūki, and Kokuo. Chomei and Kurama are both responsible adult teenagers that Naruto doesn't really keep track of too hard. As long as he hears from them once a day, he's cool with that.
Chomei is religious in his timing. Exactly eight in the evening without fail he'll arrive, give his daily report and then either sleep or go out again. Kurama only reports every other night, or if the skulk manages something noteworthy.
Right now, though, that sweet smile upon reminds Kokuo that he could be demoted at any moment if he annoys Naruto enough and be regulated to the shop's immediate vicinity like Matatabi and Saiken. He can kiss his long runs goodbye.
Swallowing spit, Kokuo acted bashful and replied. "Of course not, Narien. I just mean to say that you take such good care of us that I would be wrong to mislead you."
Naruto nodded before returning to the barrels and the other two in the irresponsible category let out relieved sighs, for different reasons of course. Saiken doesn't want to deal with Kokuo's constant whinging about not being let out.
Matatabi doesn't want to have to tip-toe around as Kokuo will totally stop her from getting free food and drinks from stupid human men. This is why she's in the irresponsible teenager category as Naruto had caught her in the act three times. One more time and she'll be forced back into the seal and remain until Kurama got back.
Kouh Town
Kurama returned his den after another successful hunt leading the new twelve strong hunter skulk. He never really thought he'd have this much fun leading a group of his fellow foxes whilst using them to keep an eye out for that particular devil family. Someone had too.
Him and his siblings discussed this when Son Goku had distracted Naruto with talks about the new blade they were to forge. The arrival of the foreign goddess of the forests actually scared Naruto more than he let on. The revelation that the forests here could potentially act as beacons toward finding him led to the sage having nightmares for a few days.
They, as a group, had to actively shield him from himself and it was driving him into a spiral of not sleeping and instead relying on either theirs or natures energy to keep moving. Heck – even Ddraig could tell something wasn't right. And he just got there.
When they strolled passed by a tourist shop in Kochi, Saiken pointed out the islands to the south could be isolated enough to be overlooked. Isobu offered to take them. When they got there, they worked on keeping him calm and in one place. A vacation of sorts.
It took them awhile; Kurama got him focused on the enhanced clones which intrigued and distracted the boy long enough for him to calm down. With him surrounded by the sea and sand, the nature was abundant without being within a forest, so his sage mode can still be used and kept him calm. A win-win.
Now though, he came back to find his skulk gathering together and fellow foxes had begun to arrive. Each time their hunters came back they'd find another lost kinsman; the new bark had developed during his stay.
Now then, his last thoughts before he fell asleep to report back via their joint mind scape of the fact that the academy has finally been rebuilt. The devil presence upped significantly. Their target has returned to his home. That Kouh has become a melting pot of every, single, faction has members sneaking around here in the last week.
The Youkai had scouts. Fallen had at least one listening post disguised as a bar in town. The church on the hill, an eight-wing angel had been spotted hanging around there. Two of those Hunters had a camp in the same forest they lived in. They thought they were sneaky. His kin found them as they moved in.
Seems the whole world is watching and waiting for them to show up here again. Kurama will use his new leader status perfectly to keep track of everything happening in this town. He jerked up at that. Bewildered at the fact he's basically a spy master right now.
When did that happen?
Kyoto Shrine
Amaterasu appeared before the bowing Yasaka and spoke immediately. "Yasaka-chan, rise up and tell me why you are reaching out for me?"
Yasaka does so and began to explain immediately after her own golden eyes meet the goddess's. "I need your help, Lady Amaterasu."
The goddess of the sun folded her arm and leaned on her right leg, stating seriously. "What do you need?"
Yasaka replied swiftly. "I have had my people scouring the nation's most isolated forests and mountain trails. There hasn't been a single flare up either so, I ask if you can locate the Sage for us. I fear that the devils might have…"
She paused upon the goddess's raised hand. Amaterasu smiled before replying. "The 'Sage' as you call him, is safe and sound. However, I am not at liberty to say of his location."
Yasaka was surprised at that, her boss is not only aware of the one she has been looking for but is also aware of his location and possibly even shielding him from them. Speaking up, Yasaka ask. "Are you shielding him from us?"
Amaterasu shook her head, explaining. "No. I am not doing that as it would draw attention. Attention I am sure will send him further into hiding. I am unwilling to allow that as long as he remains in our domain."
Yasaka nodded slowly, understanding that the Sage was still under the Shinto Pantheon's reach but not directly being observed. This means he is still in the country. Yet she had an inkling of something and voiced her inquiry. "I see. But then, based on your words, you know his name and…"
Again, the leader of the Youkai faction paused upon the raised hand of Amaterasu, who replied firmly. "Do not ask me of that again, Yasaka-chan. Am I understood?"
Yasaka nodded, bowing promptly. "Forgive my mistake. I meant no disrespect."
The goddess let out a tired sigh, rubbing her eyes as she explained. "It is not your fault Yasaka. Just that the knowledge I have found on him is both uplifting and inspiring, but also gut wrenching and heartbreaking. I owe him his privacy."
Yasaka nodded, again taking that to heart. The Sage's past was enough that even the goddess of the sun dared not recall. A tough pill to swallow and most likely explained his behaviour too.
Amaterasu continued as she locked on to the Kyuubi with a smile, saying. "I will tell you this though. You two have a connection that is truly unique that I was not expecting. Ever wondered why he was so protective of you?"
Yasaka does not. Wait. He said he'd deal with that thing as thanks. Was that not the…
Amaterasu smirked wickedly, informing her subordinate. "No. He did not do that on a whim. I suggest that you give up finding him as he will not allow himself to be found. However, should you ever fall into danger and truly need the sage's help, Kunou will call upon him and I know that he will answer without hesitation."
Underworld
A voice called out from the shadow of an alleyway. "Issei Hyoudou."
Said boy froze mid step, glancing down the dark path in the shadow of a shop on this town within Gremory territory. He had come out here to take a break from constantly swinging his new sword around. Kiba had been drilling him on its use since his first request two months ago.
He has no talent for it just determination that the fallen tears of his president had reinforced. Now though, peering down into the dark alleyway, Issei finds his neck hairs on end. Eventually, he answered back. "Who are you and how do you know my name?"
Upon those questions being asked, three figures step out of the darkness but remain concealed with the shade. Though, one of the taller two had a familiar looking white gauntlet on his arm that catches the young devil's eyes. Issei muttered, "Is that…?"
The gauntlet is raised towards the figures face and glows a little bright to show a handsome silver haired teens face that was impassively staring back at the pawn, he spoke. "My name is Vali. The white dragon to your red. We came here to offer you a chance to get back at your tormentor."
Issei's eyes harden, now glaring at the teen, muttering. "Why should I trust you? I was meant to fight you, you know?"
Vali nodded once, frowning as he replies. "That's what is told to us, yes. It is also why I am standing here, giving you this opportunity."
Issei looked unconvinced, knowing just how powerful his target is, so asked. "Do you even know how powerful Menma is? He's strong. Like crazy strong. Not even the Satan's could beat him."
The second figure steps forward, his fur-lined red armour glinting in the low light, staff resting on his shoulder as he spoke with a grin. "That's where you misunderstand things, little devil. My name is Bikou, monkey sage and descendant of Sun Wukong."
Issei eyed this new guy warily. If he was a sage like Menma is, then he is likely similarly powerful and not one to take lightly. "A monkey sage? How is that different from the Sixth Path Sage?"
Bikou kept his grin despite the unease he got at the mention of the title, shrugging as he replied with confidence. "Who's to say? Sages rarely go head-to-head so it should be fun."
The final figure steps forward, his blond hair reminded the pawn of a certain knight back at the manor, but the glinting glasses told that they were most definitely not the same person as he spoke calmly. "We have heard rumours of this 'Sage of Six Paths' and are working on a plan to bring him down. We just need a few more players."
Issei didn't think they were being serious but looking at these three very powerful people, the white dragon emperor, another Sage, and… this last guy is setting off all his devil senses the wrong way. Then again, they seem like they are really going to try which leads him to ask. "Why me? You know I lost my dragon, right? All I have is a dead gear…"
To emphasise his point, he summons his cracked, dull grey, white orbed gauntlet, and holds it up much like Vali did which drew all their eyes and surely enough the crack spread from the inner arm out was noteworthy. In all their centuries of use, none of the dragon gears had ever taken such damage.
This was more than a little interesting with the last hidden member being heard next, stating. "Not possible. How did that happen?"
Issei noticed the orb had rippled as it spoke, must be like how he and Ddraig used to be able to do, so answered. "I went for a full powered punch, and he knocked it away with his black metal staff with a weired design, and this was the result."
Bikou spoke up, correcting the young devil. "Shakujō. It's called a shakujō, kid. A weapon of us Sages. Rare for even one of us sages to wield. My staff can handle that though."
He looks to his two colleagues who look back before they all lock on the young devil, Vali asking. "So, Issei Hyoudou. What is your answer? Will you join us?"
Issei was conflicted. These people look like they were gearing up and had a serious chance at beating that guy. He was still in training. Training that has slowed since Akeno disappeared on a mission from buchou. If he goes, then he can help bring that guy down. Maybe learn a thing or two from them all but he might be considered a rogue though.
Seeing his hesitation, Vali, in a rare sign of compassion, not really, decides for him. "You know…"
Gaining everyone's attention, as his gauntlet vanishes allowing Vali to pocket his hands, continuing, "I can see you are busy training with a sword. Once we find the Sage's location, we will come get you, how's that sound?"
Issei's hesitation lowered at that, and Vali's two teammates recognised the plan and acted accordingly. With a magic circle appearing on the ground, the blond with a hand above it as a new sword slowly appeared up through it, as he says. "Indeed. As a show of good faith, I shall gift this little blade for your use. It is my old one and lacks any holy elements so it will be safe for your usage."
The sword appeared at first look to be a standard weapon of average length with a standard brass cross guard and the sheath was a royal blue with basic brass detailings around the top, down the sides and at the tip. Again, a standard sword, but little did the former dragon know, this sword the uncanny ability to repair itself with the application of magic.
As Issei takes hold of the sword, it felt like he was putting on a fitted glove and was perfectly weighted. Grinning, he lifted it from the holster and the brilliant silver rippled with a sudden green undertone in reaction to absorbing his magic slightly. Nodding his approval, Issei looked back up to find himself alone again. That didn't matter. He had a sword of his own now and didn't need to ask for one from Kiba anymore. Another step forward to defeating Menma.
With a new sense of accomplishment, Issei returned to the street, sword on hip, and headed back to the Gremory estate. His training needs to be intensified.
He was unaware that the three watched him and all three grinned darkly at this fool casually accepting such a cursed item without hesitation. He will be useful to their plans.
Takamagahara
Hermes leads Hera through the streets of the Shinto pantheon, directly towards the large imperial palace that laid ahead of them. It was a refreshing change of pace for Hera, as it was not everyday, she was allowed to walk in the heavenly realms of other pantheons unlike Hermes who is constantly on the road delivering packages.
The golden sky, the gentle son, and the heavenly aroma of the fresh natural air was all very different from the heights of her own home that Hera felt refreshed just being here.
The giant armoured door's part upon their approach, revealing Hachiman in his heavenly armour and the duo of Greeks stop before him. Glancing between them, he nods to Hermes, who spoke. "Right, I will be back in a few days as I have a few deliveries nearby."
Hachinman nodded, allowing the delivery man of the celestial to leave promptly, before turning to the queen of the Greeks, and grunting. "This way."
Hera just nodded and followed after the Shinto counterpart to her son Ares, and step children, Apollo and Artemis. Even though it is not a complete one to one.
They had traveled in silence; the decorations were regal yet tasteful and Hera could appreciate the effort put into the décor. Halfway to their destination, they came across a small cross junction, where Susanoo and Ōkuninushi were discussing something. When Hachinman's armour caught their attention, they both glanced over before Ōkuninushi whispered something before departing.
After nodding his fellow deity off, Susanoo turned to Hachiman and asked. "Are you heading to the council room?"
Hachinman nodded, as the god of storms, wind, fields, and the harvest falls into step with him. Susanoo inclined his head towards Hera. "Fair day, Lady Hera."
Hera just nodded back, replying. "To you too."
A scant few minutes later they entered the meeting room, to find Amaterasu sitting at the tables head, calm, collected, and relaxed in her regal position as leader of the Shinto pantheon.
On her left sat none other than Tsukuyomi who was clearly keeping an eye on his Greek counterpart, Artemis at his side. Said goddess of the moon looked up to see her queen instead of her father, or brother at least. Artemis had hoped that either Apollo or Zeus would be the one to come but it seems that Hera has taken it upon herself here.
She did not know whether that was a good or bad thing.
Amaterasu stood and smiled warmly, "Queen Hera of the Greek Pantheon. Welcome to Takamagahara, our home. Please, take a seat. We have much to discuss."
Hera returned the smile and took said seat, and the sun goddess returned to hers, allowing Hera to reply. "I thank you for the invitation. Even if it is under these – unfortunate circumstances. I honestly cannot fault your decision and stance on this whole affair."
The dark-haired beauty known as the Shinto goddess of the sun nodded with a smile still upon her sharp featured face, her fiery eyes fixed on the Greek goddess of childbirth, Amaterasu nodded before replying. "Well, things have been rather difficult as of late with many other pantheons all poking around our territory. It is regretful that this has taken place, and we are only now able to tackle it."
Hera smiles again, glancing at Artemis who was looking well taken care of despite everything. A swift inclination of her head told the queen that nothing was wrong with her, so Hera focused back on the other side of the table back at Amaterasu and says. "I do not doubt that. We ourselves are rather taken with what we have heard from our own nature spirits and deities of the happenings here in the east."
Amateurasu smile turned sly briefly, knowing that as putting it mildly, before nodding at that accurate statement, telling earnestly. "I do not doubt that. It was a surprise for many."
She let a breath before growing firm and voice stiffening up, continuing, "That being said, it does not excuse the fact that one of yours had snuck into our domain and attempted to directly interfere with our internal affairs. Care to explain your actions and what compensation we are to receive due to this infringement?"
Hera did not loose her stern composure, replying. "Lady Amateurasu, from what we understand, this entity has no ties to any pantheon. I agree that we have stepped over a line with the act of not informing you of our intentions within your territory, however the insinuation that we are attempting to meddle with your internal matters is a bit of a stretch."
Susanoo spoke next, arching a brow with arms crossed. "An interesting idea you have there. What makes you say that?"
Hera glanced at the large bulk of a samurai of the storms, offering back. "My sister, Demeter, is obviously very interested in this matter and driven in her desire for a connection with it. Her domains are heavily influenced by this being. A being that she has never met. This means that this Sage is not of any pantheon – not even yours."
She ended whilst looking at the sun goddess who had held her smile but did not respond immediately. Instead, Tsukuyomi did speaking softly. "What is the point you are making with such a statement, Queen Hera? That you are free to harass our people that reside within our domain, under our protection, as much as you wish as long as it does not interfere with us directly? Is that not rather arrogant of you?"
Hera glances to the man who addressed her, replying. "Not at all. I do not wish to stray off the subject matter of our intrusion in your lands. That is the crime here, not the accusation of our involvement with your internal affairs. We did no such thing."
Hachiman spoke next, "We did not accuse you of such. We were pointing out the fact that your goddess of the moon had directly interfered with our domain. As did your sun god, both blinding their local counterpart's ability to see our territory in such a way to hide their actions."
Hera glanced at her escort briefly, but looked at Amaterasu again, saying. "As I have already mentioned, we are here for the intrusion of ourselves upon your territorial lands. That is why we are here. Let us not get off subject or we shall be running in circles. I get enough of that from my own and it would be in rather bad taste to bring that here among you all."
Joint Mindscape
Naruto sat on a branch of the largest, thickest tree beneath the full night sky that lacked the moon. As he leaned against the trunk, foot dangling off the edge, he is soon joined by a normally sized fox with nine tails and scarlet eyes, and he smiles. "You're late, Kurama."
Kurama chuckled as he sat on his hunches on the branch, replying promptly. "Brat. I am not my siblings, and you are neither my parents so cut it out."
Glancing at the fox who had joined him, Naruto raised a brow as he asked. "I never said I was. Where did that come from?"
Kurama looks back at his container, replying. "Gyūki mentioned it. You have turned into a little bit of a mother hen, babying my siblings."
Naruto snorted, shaking his head as he looks back out at the clearing, stating. "If they weren't so troublesome, I wouldn't have too. We'll be caught at this rate."
Kurama sighed, shaking his head, "Naruto. It has been six weeks since you got there. No one has found you, right?"
Naruto side-eyed the Kyuubi, replying icily. "Way to jinx it."
Kurama returned the favour with a sideways glance, grinning. "Can't let you get rusty serving drinks behind a bar now, can I?"
Naruto huffed, looking up at the starry night sky, before asking. "So, how's the kits doing? The others?"
Kurama smiled wide, tails wagging excitedly. "A few of the younger ones are learning how to speak. It is only a matter of time before we have a few more hunting teams, and the network will likely spread faster once they do."
Naruto nodded with a small smile himself, replying. "An animal spy network. Quick thinking Kurama. I happen to know that Isobu has been enjoying swimming among the coral reefs offshore. He'll likely be the second network."
Kurama chuckled, shaking his muzzle, "Never thought he'd be so motivated. He is normally the slowest to react."
Naruto snorted, replying. "You've never seen him around fruit tarts. If he moved any faster, I'd have to pull out the thunder god technique."
Kurama cackled at that, disbelieving that and the two fell into a laughing rhythm with one another. It didn't last too long but it was cathartic for them both. This was the longest both had been apart from one another in Naruto's entire life.
After a while their laughs fell off, and Kurama looks to his friend, and asked. "How are you holding out?"
Naruto looks back, his smile was small but sincere as he spoke. "Mata and Saiken say that I have improved. I don't see it but also not going to argue with them. Women can't be reasoned with rationally so…"
Kurama chuckled lightly at that, nodding his approval, saying. "I do not doubt their analysis. You are one of us, Naruto. They care about you just as you do us. Please don't be so stubborn and dismiss their good will."
Naruto sighed, hard, before slowly looking to the fox and replies, "I guess you would know. Fine. I will listen to them more."
Kurama nodded his head, before recalling something his men had discovered in the forest. "Before I forget, we stumbled upon a two tailed black cat in the forest, approaching the dens. The hunter skulk ran her off but…"
Naruto nodded, replying. "I'll keep an ear out for her. Anything stand out about her, besides the whole two tails thing?"
Kurama shook his head, replying. "From what the six told me, she escaped up a tree and they lost her when she passed through the leaves."
Naruto narrowed his eyes thoughtfully, pondering this information. Kurama continued. "She's been hanging around and popping in every so often. I haven't confronted her myself, but she is very persistent."
Naruto nodded speaking airily. "The old couple will be back to full health in a week. We will leave as soon as you get back."
He turns to the fox, eyes hard. "I have a bad feeling about things. It's been growing for a long time and in all honesty, I am really unsettled by it."
Kurama nodded, knowing that a person's instincts are to be listened to as a fox himself, so replied. "I will leave before midday. Should be back in four days."
Naruto nodded seriously, adding. "Remember to recharge your chakra before you leave then after you pass Shikoku. Last thing we need is for those in Kyoto sensing you."
Kurama snorted, "Naruto, who do you think I am? Shukaku?"
Naruto gave him a dry look, speaking flatly. "Kurama – it is because it's you I am saying this. If Yoko-san detects you, things will be really complicated and stuff. They'll chase us literally to the end of the world to have another kyuubi around."
Kurama doesn't reply just huffed, snout in the air.
Beki's Coral
Naruto finally opens his eyes to the basement of the bar where they have set up shop. Taking a deep breath, he stands from his futon to stretch out a bit and get blood pumping through his muscles again.
A knock on the door up to the main floor, and in stepped Matatabi who peeked down the stairs, asking. "Naru?"
Naruto sighs before replying. "Mata…?"
Moments later the human form nekomata appeared before Naruto who was going through basic stretches before bed, she was in her fluffy grey sleeping gown but barefoot. Matatabi whispered. "How is Kurama doing?"
Naruto shrugged before he took a seat back on his bedroll, "Fine. He'll be back in a few days. We'll leave when he does."
Matatabi sighs as she follows him down, sitting beside her host, before asking. "Are you sure we have to go? I mean… we are safe here, no?"
Naruto turned his head to her, face stern. "We thought that before, remember? Now we have to stay out of the forests. Log knows what we going to have to deal with in a whole new world. A world full of all manner of things we have never encountered before. Mata, we are never safe. Do not ever think that."
She swallowed tightly, looking away and clearly upset at that fact, Matatabi whispering. "I'm sorry Naru-kun."
Now Naruto felt bad and sighed, face meeting palm mumbling into his hand before finally looking back at his tenant, saying. "I am sorry Mata. It's just…"
She looks to him, clearly seeing the worry, concern, and a bit of fear on Naruto's face as he bit his lip. Naruto whispered beneath a breath. "I promised you all. I promised that you will never have to worry about humans abusing any of you for your power. Now, after two years on the run, we end up in this…"
He gestured all around as if that answered the question for him, continuing after a breath. "A whole world of powerful gods, goddesses, devils, angels and everything in between. Dangers are everywhere and I still have no idea where…"
Naruto pauses when Matatabi began to rub his back unprompted. Looking to her, seeing her smile, about to ask what she's doing when Matatabi spoke first. "First of all, breathe."
He does so without question and upon his completion, not halting her actions, Matatabi continued. "Secondly, you need to let us help you more. We are in this together and we have nothing but absolute faith in you, our youngest kin. You have done so much for us that we worry about what we can do to repay you for your efforts."
Naruto was going to interject but found her finger across his lips, Matatabi did not stop speaking. "Thirdly, we are worried about you. You almost had a mental breakdown after that confrontation with that goddess of the forest. It's why Kurama ordered us to rest here."
She hushed him before continuing. "Fourth, your health is our priority. Physical or mental, we are all in this together. So please, for my sake. Talk to me at least. If things get a bit much, talk to me. I promise I won't tell anyone, and it'll be between the two of us, okay? We're partners in crime after all."
She whispered from the last question, pulling her finger away from across his lips and Naruto nodded silently, before looking forward at the stacks of crates.
They sat in silence for a few minutes which was broken by her leaning against the sage but nothing beyond that. Eventually, a good three minutes later, Naruto spoke again, in a whisper. "Mata. I have been having a really bad feeling lately. Like, something is closing in on me and I can't even tell from where."
He glances at her, resting against his shoulder, continuing. "It feels like I am missing something critical. Forgetting something important. It's driving me crazy."
Matatabi thought on those words, unwilling to dismiss them, as Naruto's gut feelings are normally correct. Only three times they weren't but they had bailed him out those times. Kokuo, although she herself has complained about him running the perimeter of the island for fun, is also keeping an eye out for any trouble or hotspots for such to develop.
Isobu is doing the same thing out to sea whilst playing with the wildlife and building friendships. Ddriag and Chomei has been surveying the entire island and is getting regular reports of the humans from his fellow insects that are native to the island. Gyūki is often talking with the delivery and logistics companies and finding out the latest gossip that Son Goku then investigates.
Kurama obviously is keeping an eye out for that dragon brat and building up the foxes there to a spy force. Then she and Saiken are on local defence and medical support for Naruto. Not that he is aware of this though as his stress levels was way too high when they first arrived. They all decided to take care of him for once.
Instead, Matatabi pulled off his shoulder and pulled Naruto's face back to look into her eyes and she smiled. "I think you've spent too much time cooped up in here. So, tomorrow we are going to town and have a good, relaxing time."
Naruto objected to this. "Mata… did you not…"
He froze upon her glare, hearing the almost imperceptible groan from her throat, Naruto swallowed spit allowing Matatabi a chance to speak. "Naruto. Are you questioning me?"
He shakes his head once, and she nodded before smiling softly. "Good. Now then, let's get some sleep."
Again, Naruto went to argue with her, but a raised eyebrow forced his silence. She nodded as they shifted into the futon and Matatabi pulled him over her and snuggled back into his warmth. The sage sighed silently into his bedmate's dark-blue hair, his concluding thoughts. 'Kurama, I hope you are right about this.'
A/N: Things are looking up for Naruto. A small break and his tenants are trying to ease the load too. Akeno has gone out on her solo mission to find Naruto. Greeks and Shinto enter negotiations. Team Vali make an appearence. Kuroka is being hunted by foxes. Matatabi offers her host an ear for his worries and concerns.
I think I have decided on an end goal though still spit balling things here so only generalities. Just using this as a way to unload and not taking it too seriously. Hope you enjoyed.
o7