Yo,

I'm back with the Next Chapter of Shadow Light.Next chapters of Shadow Light is available on my pa#tron page. If you like to stay ahead, you can find them there.

Link - patron / blackinfinity1289

Before we dive into our newest chap, there is one thing I like to share-

I've made a new discord server where I'll keep on updating sneak peeks of the chapters, character designs, polls and where you can freely talk and ask things regarding my fics directly from me. I'm most active there. It's a relatively new server, so please show some love!

Link: discord . Gg / SPsSwAcq4b

Remove the spaces.

Name: Black DawnWithout further ado, let's get started.

Enjoy.

Shadow Light

Chapter 43

Hero, Traitor and Dragon

Next Morning

Following the day of intense battle, reflection, discourse, satisfaction, and resolutions, night descended, yielding to a new day ripe with the promise of hope and enjoyment.

As Naruto found himself amid half a dozen bodies, he groggily woke up and readied for the day ahead, fully deciding to spend the time with his girls and thinking of ways to make it up to Yasaka. That's when a brilliant thought struck him.

"Not so brilliant one," Kurama piped up in resentment as he was blocked again following the order of pleasure. Naruto rolled his eyes at the grumpy fox and decided to execute his plan.

He vanished to Yasaka's residence, startling the Kyuubi by his unexpected entrance. Before Yasaka can comprehend what happened, he took her with him, replacing her with his clone. "Time to make it up to you." He said with a cheeky smile as they vanished again, reappearing in Naruto's hotel room.

Startled but soon settling into the sudden change of surroundings, Yasaka looked at Naruto, her eyes revealing a mixture of surprise and relief.

"Naruto-kun, that was rather sudden," she began, "but I suppose you've never been one for formalities. Thank you for saving Kyoto. You saved my realm and my people. For that, I'm eternally grateful." She said with a low bow of respect. Naruto pulled her into an embrace of comfort and they moved to the lounge area as all the girls were sleeping.

Naruto returned her gaze earnestly. "I did what I had to do, Yasaka-chan. Anyone who threatens innocent lives should be ready for a fight. Plus, I had my reasons to make sure Kyoto stayed safe." He said with a meaningful look at her. Yasaka smiled, grasping the meaning, but her mind went to his claim yesterday.

Cautiously, she approached the topic. "Your proclamation earlier, that Kyoto is yours, is it true? Do you stand by it? Are you really committed to protecting the city, to the point where you'd challenge even the gods?" She asked with an uneasy expression.

She knew better than to question Naruto on his ideals. After all, those were some of the important foundations of their love and the development of their relationship. She loved his passion after their lovemaking and decided to follow him. Those words still inspired her.

Naruto smiled, maintaining his sincere expression. "Yes, I stand by it. This city, country and even the world, deserve a chance for peace and happiness. If the gods are lax in their duties, someone has to step up. I might look young and brash, but I've seen enough to know that waiting for others to make the first move isn't always an option." He said with a faraway look.

Yasaka looked deep into his eyes, searching for a hint of insincerity, and found none. "Very well," she said softly, "if that's your path, know that you won't walk it alone. We, the people you've saved, stand with you. I'll walk with you to the end of the world for that peace." She said sincerely.

Naruto's smile widened, he wanted to take her in then and there. "I appreciate that, Yasaka-chan. But for now, let's focus on today, and how we can make the most of it. I had to make it up to you for your spoiled date, shouldn't I?"

Yasaka chuckled. "You have to. Today is a new beginning, and I can't think of anyone better to start it with than you."

While they were in the middle of their deep conversation, all the girls woke up and walked into the lounge to see who Naruto was talking to see the Fox Priestess happily talking to Naruto sitting in his lap.

"Aww, look at them lovey-dovey," Miya cooed.

"Makes me remember those initial days he saved me," Elsha said with a nostalgic smile. Before more of them go into their moments of love with the blonde, he noticed them and cleared his throat getting their attention.

"Girls, this is Yasaka-chan. The first woman I met when I started my journey." Naruto introduced, his voice tinged with a warmth that signalled his affection for her. They all gave Yasaka an acknowledging and welcoming smile. Yasaka, ever the poised and graceful figure, offered a polite nod of her head, her eyes glinting in joy.

Naruto smiled at Yasaka as he gestured towards the girls. "How about I introduce them to you? Meet some important people in my life. The women that changed my life. My family," Naruto said dramatically.

The room is filled with an array of individuals, each with their own unique aura and presence. Yasaka sensed the complexity and depth in each of them, appreciating the diverse group Naruto had assembled.

"First up, my first piece ever to be reincarnated: Lavinia Reni, my Bishop," Naruto gestured to a woman with silvery-blonde hair and an ethereal grace, "and my second Bishop, the ex-rating game champion and our resident nurse, Roygun Belphegor," he pointed to another woman, exuding an air of casual royalty with battle-hardened eyes.

Reni offered a serene smile. "It's an honour to finally meet you, Yasaka."

Roygun nodded, a respectful glint in her eyes. "Thank you for dealing with Naruto-kun's antics."

"Next, my Rook: Kazehana. She has the Fuujin Megumi." Naruto gestured to a spirited woman with free-flowing dark hair. Yasaka's eyes widened in recognition and she smiled widely to which she got an enthusiastic one in return.

"Hello there," Kana waved.

"Following her is Medy-chan. Her name is Medusa, once a goddess now my Rook." Naruto said with a cringe. He pointed to a mysterious woman whose eyes seemed to hold ancient wisdom and mystery with how deep they looked. Yasaka gave her a polite smile and got a flat nod. While Naruto didn't know how to better explain about Medusa and her circumstances, he gave the simplest version he could come up with.

Medusa offered a more restrained smile. "Pleasure to make your acquaintance. If Master likes you, you'll have my affection." Medusa said in conviction. Yasaka didn't expect that and so gave a confused smile. Naruto patted, as if understanding her dilemma.

"Now comes my Knights. My sword of Darkness, Saeko," Naruto pointed towards a woman with a serious yet kind demeanour, "and my sword of Light, Mia," he indicated a quieter woman with a guarded yet curious expression.

Saeko bowed slightly. "It's an honour."

Mia nodded, her eyes meeting Yasaka's. "Nice to meet you."

"And my Pawn, Alice," Naruto gestured to a younger woman whose eyes sparkled with a mix of mischief and burgeoning strength.

Alice grinned widely. "Hiya! Can't wait to get to know you!"

"Lastly, though not a part of my peerage, an important member of our club—Elsha, the strongest Red Dragon Empress," Naruto said in a grandiose fashion, indicating to a woman standing a bit apart, her eyes filled with mirth and wisdom.

Elsha stepped forward, offering a warm smile. "It's a pleasure, Yasaka. Been a while since I saw Kyuubi."

Yasaka looked at each of them in turn, feeling the energy in the room, the unspoken bonds of loyalty and love that tied them to Naruto. "The honour is mine. To have garnered such loyalty and assembled such an eclectic yet harmonious group, Naruto-kun, you truly are special."

Naruto grinned, "Well, it takes a village, or in this case, a peerage to keep me happy." Naruto said smugly and Yasaka smiled widely while all the girls had mischievous looks.

"Aren't you forgetting someone, honey?" Mia quipped and Naruto got a star-struck look.

He smirked, his eyes glinting with a mix of pride and mischief. "Ah, yes. There's one more introduction to make. Someone who's been with me through thick and thin, battles and peace."

A low rumble echoed throughout the room, emanating from the shadows. The atmosphere grew tense as if anticipating something monumental.

"Allow me to introduce you to… Kurama," Naruto declared.

As he spoke, the shadows in the room seemed to come alive, swirling and condensing until they coalesced into a massive, shadowy figure. His eyes are a deep red, piercing through the darkness, and his mouth is a terrifying maw of sharp teeth, with fangs protruding menacingly. Then, like a shroud being lifted, the shadows dispersed, revealing an awe-inspiring orange dragon.

Kurama stretched his large wings, while his four smaller sets of wings fluttered in a display of both power and grace. His tail swung from side to side, as if anticipating action, surprisingly not destroying any furniture.

The room is silent for a moment, each member of Naruto's peerage giggling silently watching Yasaka's reaction.

Yasaka's eyes widened in a mixture of fear, surprise, awe, and got a touch of recognition. As if she found a missing connection somewhere. Though it was her first time seeing Kurama, she felt an odd kinship. It is as if he is not just a dragon and one of her kin, there is a kind of primal energy they both shared, a natural majesty that transcended form.

Her thoughts raced, 'Skiadrum, the Dragon of Shadows changed into Kurama, after bonding with Naruto-kun.' As Yokai lived for generations, they are aware of all the Dragons that roamed the worlds and Skiadrum is a very popular Dragon known for his protective and kind-hearted nature even among the Yokai.

But seeing him as Kurama resonated deeply with Yasaka. She didn't understand if this change was due to Skiadrum choosing Naruto or something else, but she felt a bond of kinship forming between herself and the Dragon in front of her.

Kurama locked eyes with Yasaka, offering what could be interpreted as a dragon-sized grin.

"Naruto-kun," Yasaka finally spoke, her voice tinged with wonder and newfound respect, "your life is full of incredible beings. And Kurama... it's an honour to meet one so majestic." She said with a bow.

Kurama emitted a pleased rumble, and Naruto grinned. "Definitely your honour, Yasaka." Kurama agreed with a boastful laugh. Naruto pinched the Dragon for his cheeky remark.

"Ow, ow. Let go of my scales, you blonde moron." Kurama said, his tail swinging wildly and destroying the room's door and the corridor that followed. Naruto fixed it immediately and due to the silencing seals around, no one noticed the destruction and its repair in an instant.

"You had enough fun, now get back," Naruto said, pulling Kurama in and as he vanished into Naruto's body, he gave a toothy grin to all girls present and promised to share a story of Naruto and the reward of being a Hero.

"Oh my, what naughty things did you do, Naruto-kun?" Reni asked with a teasing grin.

"Nothing more than what I did with you." Naruto taunted with his tongue out. This led to a genuine smile on Yasaka's face.

"Now let's eat! I'm hungry!" Naruto said and everyone scrambled to cook something for Naruto as the blonde wouldn't gather them like this often, Yasaka decided to cook ramen, becoming part of the women for the day to stay with Naruto. Everyone offered help to her when she needed it and even went out of their way to do a taste test and giving her feedback.

Yasaka looked around at the eclectic gathering, feeling oddly at ease. It wasn't just the acceptance that put her at peace, but the genuine warmth and camaraderie she got among them. Naruto had indeed surrounded himself with strong, capable women, each one unique in her own way.

As she served the ramen, she couldn't hold the remark to herself. "You're quite the charmer, aren't you?" Yasaka finally spoke, her voice laced with both humour and a hint of awe.

Naruto chuckled, wrapping an arm around Yasaka's waist. "Well, it takes one to know one," he replied, pulling her closer. "Your ramen is fantastic. Today is about relaxation and enjoyment. We've all been through a lot lately."

As laughter and conversation filled the air, each woman presented their dish, Naruto ate, gave them some pointers and they all shared warm laughs and happy stories, spending more time with the blonde.

Yasaka formed a bond of comradery with all women, becoming part of them with ease and enjoying herself with her Naruto-kun. She realised how the blonde somehow managed to weave these disparate threads into a tapestry of companionship, loyalty, and love.

For Yasaka, the day offered not just an introduction to Naruto's closest companions, but also a glimpse into the complexities and richness of the life he led. And as she looked into his eyes, she felt more certain than ever that she wanted to be a part of that tapestry, however intricate and unpredictable it might be.

Meanwhile

Unknown Location

Inside a dimly lit room, the high-ranking members of the Hero Faction, each a wielder of a Medium to high-level Longinus, sat around a long table. The air was thick with tension, an unspoken acknowledgement of the massive failure their recent operation had turned out to be. At the head of the table sat Cao Cao, his face stoic but eyes burning with a fierce intensity.

"I need not remind everyone here that the operation in Kyoto was not just a failure; it was a catastrophic miscalculation," Cao Cao began, his voice icy. "The objective was to unleash hell and destabilise the supernatural world, forcing them to deal with the chaos while we advanced our goals. Instead, we've failed to accomplish anything."

Georg, the wielder of Dimension Lost, the main perpetrator of the attack, shuffled uncomfortably. "The calculations were correct, the plan was flawless on paper. But we didn't account for the slight miscalculation about the Devil's trip to Kyoto and the ringleader of destruction, Naruto Uzumaki. His presence is... disruptive, to say the least. He's a wildcard, an unpredictable factor."

Jeanne added, "Not just disruptive, he single-handedly neutralised most of the Onis and their threat and repaired the entire city as if nothing happened. And all that within ten minutes." She said in disgust.

Heracles, usually the strong and silent type, clenched his fists. "We're supposed to be the Heroes, and yet we've been outclassed. If only we got our hands on Kyuubi and the Ley Lines beneath. It's a disgrace."

Cao Cao's eyes narrowed. "What bothers me most is how we failed to anticipate this level of resistance. We've been watching, planning, and this still happened. It shows a level of incompetence that I find intolerable." His tone suggested he didn't like this hiccup.

Siegfried, his voice as sharp as his sword, spoke up. "So, what's the plan now? More observations? Another attempt?"

Cao Cao leaned forward, steepling his fingers. "No. A change in strategy is required. We've seen the height of their power, and it's evident that the old methods won't suffice. New objectives will be defined, and this time, there will be no room for failure." he said in determination.

Georg hesitated before speaking, "And what of Dimension Lost? It's nearing its end and without it…"

Upon Cao Cao's behest, Georg made a rift between Yomi no Kuni (Shinto Hell) and the Human world, breaching the Celestial barriers and releasing the thousands of Oni present. However due to Naruto's interference and his subsequent battle in the said rift with Daisuke, which is formed due to Dimension Lost's ability, the sacred gear was pushed to its limits to maintain the rift. It was unable to handle the power exerted and is falling apart.

Though Georg didn't know that when he heard a crack sound in the rift, he understood it after everything was over and when he returned to report to Cao Cao as his sacred gear didn't work as efficiently as before.

Cao Cao interrupted, his voice tinged with a barely contained fury. "Better yourself. I want you to achieve it's Balance Breaker soon. Balance Breakers will restructure the Sacred Gears according to the user's needs and hence once you unlock it, you'll be able to get back your control and it will repair itself to better suit you as well.

"Our mission is no longer just about changing the world; it is about proving that we are not to be underestimated. I will not tolerate another failure, not when we're this close to accomplishing one of our objectives. All Gods and supernatural beings will regret demeaning us, Humans. We HEROS shall rise!" Cao Cao said with passion.

As the Hero Faction leaders absorbed the gravity of their leader's words, the room sank into a tense silence. It was as if the failure in Kyoto had galvanised them, stealing them for the intense struggle that lay ahead. But deep inside, they doubted if everything they thought was possible in light of recent events.

The atmosphere thickened as the door creaked open, casting a shadow across the room. The members of the Hero Faction tensed as figures from the Old Satan Faction sauntered in. Leading the group is Shalba Beelzebub, whose sinister grin seemed to mock their earlier failures. Behind him is Katerea Leviathan, her face unreadable as ever. Creuserey Asmodeus followed, his indifferent gaze sweeping the room as if assessing its worth. And there is also a new addition; a mysterious figure cloaked in darkness, whose presence is unsettling for the mistrusting Heros.

Cao Cao's eyes narrowed, irritation mingling with his innate curiosity. "What brings the dogs of the old world into our lair?"

Shalba chuckled darkly. "We heard you had a little... a little setback in Kyoto. We thought it might be an opportune time to discuss some... collaboration. And your lair? This is a meeting spot." He said with a taunting smirk.

Siegfried tightened his grip on his sword, clearly displeased by their sudden intrusion. Heracles, too, seemed ready for conflict, but he knew better than to ignite hostilities within the room.

Katerea fell into a contemplative silence, her thoughts consumed by the weighty decision of her next move.

Creuserey spoke, his voice dripping with apathy, "Do you think you can work with us? After your arrogant attempts to overthrow the balance?" His tone full of arrogance.

Cao Cao considered this, eyes drifting to the new addition to their group. "And who's this? Another lost soul yearning for the glory days of the Underworld?"

The mysterious figure stepped forward, pulling back the hood just enough to reveal an intense gaze that silenced the room. "Names are irrelevant. Let's just say I bring something to the table that none of you possess."

Shalba grinned wider, relishing the tension. "So, what will it be, heroes? Shall we join forces to eliminate the common thorn in our sides?"

Cao Cao's eyes bore into Shalba's with an infuriating harshness. "Don't think for a moment that I do this willingly," he spat. His gaze swept over the assembly of the Old Satan Faction, his voice dripping with disdain. "This alliance is purely out of necessity, nothing more. Didn't you get a new toy to play with now? Go play with him, not us." Cao Cao retorted in glee.

The room crackled with tension, malevolent intents clashing in the stifling air. The two factions, once bitter enemies, now found themselves in an even bitter stand-off. A challenge hung in the air, a silent dare to prove who among them is truly the strongest.

After a moment of strained tension, the members of the Old Satan Faction and the Hero Faction took their seats, a cold shiver seemed to run through the room as if expecting something gigantic to happen. The emblematic table of the Khaos Brigade is now filled with some of the most dangerous figures from multiple factions, all under one roof.

Vali Lucifer, the White Dragon Emperor of the generation, walked in with a dismissive smirk on his face. "So, the dysfunctional family grows," he quipped, observing the new member on Shalba's side.

Shalba cast a disdainful glance at Vali but refrained from commenting. Instead, he turned his attention to the small figure on the table. The emblem of the Khaos Brigade glowed ominously beneath her, as she sat there in her impassive glory with cold eyes.

Ophis spoke in a tone as detached as it was chilling. "You all are aware of the failed operation in Kyoto. This meeting is to discuss our next steps. Introduce the new member."

The mysterious figure from earlier rose, still shrouded in enigmatic magic. "Let's keep it simple. I have information and resources that will be beneficial for the Brigade. My identity will be revealed when the time is right."

Cao Cao shifted in his chair, still unnerved by this unknown element. "Information is valuable, but trust is earned. What do you bring to the table?"

Before the newcomer could respond, Vali interjected, "Let's not kid ourselves. We're all here for our own reasons. What matters is how we can use this new... development to our advantage."

Ophis nodded. "Vali is correct. The appearance of this Naruto Uzumaki has introduced a new variable. One that could either benefit us or become an obstacle. We need to decide on how to deal with this now."

Shalba leaned forward, locking eyes with Ophis. "Then let's cut to the chase. Are we going to kill him or recruit him?"

Ophis paused, weighing the words carefully. "That is what we decide." She said in a cold tone, her eyes losing in a distant dream of regaining her home.

The room fell into a tense silence. Each individual at that table is a powerhouse in their own right, and yet, the name 'Naruto Uzumaki' has added an air of uncertainty that no one could ignore. Some of them knew him as Jiraiya's student and while others just ignored him deeming him as a small threat.

Shalba and Creuserey on the other hand turned to Katerea, who was still lost in her thoughts. She has decided what to do. It's time for her to escape from these people. Even now, she attended because of her fear of Ophis.

She didn't know what the Ouroboros dragon would do to her love if she found out about their relationship and attended this 'meeting'. She felt sharp gazes on her and turned to her 'companions'. She shrugged, not giving a damn about what they were asking of her.

At that moment, she decided to stop being part of the group and leave with Jiraiya. She is going to trust the white-haired sage with her safety and face whatever comes then. With a resolute look, she nodded to herself.

"Do you have anything to add about this Naruto?" she heard the cold voice of Ophis speaking directly to her. Startled, Katerea nodded negatively, not trusting her voice. Ophis eyes narrowed for a moment, but she moved on.

"Before I decide on this new character's worth, I want a complete account of what happened in Kyoto and then I'll see if he is useful to me or not," Ophis said with finality.

Cao Cao cleared his throat, pushing down the annoyance that had been simmering within him since the failure in Kyoto. "Very well, let's start with an account of what went wrong. Our plan was simple: unleash the Oni, destabilize the region, and create a situation that would enable us to achieve our ultimate goals. However, it seems we greatly underestimated the intervention of an unknown variable: Devils and Naruto Uzumaki."

Vali, ever the provocateur, leaned back in his chair. "Ah yes, the 'unknown variable.' Funny how those always seem to ruin the best-laid plans, isn't it?"

Cao Cao shot him a dark glance, choosing to ignore the taunt, he continued. "He was able to destroy a hundred thousand Oni and their generals and kill the Prime General. Though All of this was done within ten minutes. Georg says he did something... unusual with his shadows."

Ophis's eyes narrowed slightly, a sign that she is now giving the discussion her full attention. "Shadows? You are referring to Skiadrum, the Shadow Dragon?"

"Perhaps," Cao Cao shrugged. "George was too far away from them, hiding to notice clearly. It may be Skiadrum as you put it or maybe some shadow magic as well. He is a no-name nobody after all." Cao Cao wrote it off.

"I can confidently say that the very shadows around him became lethal, obliterating the Oni as if they were nothing," Georg said, standing up angering Cao Cao. He sat immediately, not wanting to draw more attention to him.

A collective murmur of disbelief and concern spread across the room. Even Shalba, who had often considered himself above many, felt a tingling sensation of unease.

Ophis spoke, her voice even but carrying an uncharacteristic undertone of gravity. "The power of Skiadrum is not to be taken lightly. I've been searching for him for centuries. If this Naruto Uzumaki indeed wields his abilities, our strategies need to be reevaluated. He is no longer just an unknown variable; he would become a significant factor that could tip the scales."

Vali grinned, "So the game is getting interesting, eh? Either we bring him to our side, or we risk having a formidable enemy. In either scenario, we can't afford to be passive."

Ophis considered the options before finally speaking. "Both paths are fraught with risks and possibilities. But let it be clear: if Naruto Uzumaki is not with us, then we must consider him against us. We cannot afford another miscalculation like Kyoto."

As the members of the Khaos Brigade absorbed the weight of Ophis's words, each couldn't help but think how the name 'Naruto Uzumaki' had become an axis upon which their fates would now inevitably turn if what Ophis said was true.

Kuroka Pov

Kuroka sat silently, her eyes locked onto the table as the discussion unfolded. She is good at keeping her emotions hidden, a skill honed from years of survival in the underworld. But inside, her mind is a storm of conflict and emotion.

'Naruto!' she thought, her heart making a tiny leap at the mention of the name. The enigmatic individual who has become her protector and love. 'He took out an Oni army, their generals, and the Prime General in ten minutes?' Her thoughts raced, a mixture of pride and disbelief filling her. 'Is there anything you can't do, Naruto?' a stray thought came up.

As Ophis delivered her concluding thoughts, Kuroka felt her resolve harden. If Naruto is deemed an enemy by the Khaos Brigade, she knew she will have to make a choice. A choice between the life she has now and... well, something better. She is just waiting for the call of her blonde lover.

She looked around the room. Vali, who had always been like a brother to her; Ophis, who remained an enigma; and the rest of the members, each with their own twisted goals. Could she really go against them if the need arose? Yes, she can with the help of Naruto. Hell, she can even go against the Devils if he stands beside her.

Then her thoughts shifted to Koneko, her little sister. How would she feel about Naruto? Koneko had always been so innocent, so untainted by the cruel realities that had befallen them. She remembered Naruto's promise to reunite them and a small smile graced her lips.

'As long as Koneko is safe, as long as she's happy, that's all that matters,' Kuroka thought, her will firm with newfound determination. 'I'll have to tell Naruto everything... about this discussion, and about how dangerously close they're getting to marking him an enemy. We're walking on a tightrope, and it's time to choose a side.'

However, she knew the reason Naruto didn't take her in is because of her abilities as his spy in the rogue organisation. She can understand his thinking to an extent, did she like it, no. She only wants to keep Koneko safe and be on his side.

Vali Pov

Vali listened attentively, his eyes half-lidded but sharp. The tale of the Kyoto incident spun itself out, a web of complexities and unpredictable turns. It was Naruto Uzumaki, a name previously unknown to him, who had shifted the balance of power with almost unthinkable speed. He felt a jolt of excitement, a flame kindling deep within him.

'Ten minutes. He erased an entire Oni army and their leadership in ten minutes,' Vali thought, almost incredulous but tinged with anticipation. 'With Skiadrum, a Shadow Dragon that is said to rival Ddraig and Albion. Fascinating.'

"Be careful with him, Vali. I trust Ophis and her judgement. If he is what he is said to be, he shouldn't be trifled with." Albion spoke.

'Trust me, Albion, the thought has crossed my mind,' Vali replied, contemplating the dragon's words as he hovered above the clouds in his mind, feeling the wind rush past him. 'But think about it—what's life without a few challenges?'

"Aren't you forgetting something?" Albion questioned, his tone tinged with curiosity. "This isn't just any challenge. We're talking about a dragon who can tip scales in Ophis' favour in her fight against Great Red. And this Naruto is a Hybrid, isn't he? Who knows what else he can do? It's not a typical Sunday spar, you know."

Vali chuckled. 'All the more reason to meet him. A fighter like him comes around once in several lifetimes. And besides, the world is changing, Albion. New players are entering the field. I only hope our nemesis is awake as well. We can't afford to sit idly by.'

Albion sighed, a subtle vibration coursing through the sacred gear that linked him with Vali. "Very well. But be mindful of the balance. While it's true that the landscape is shifting, reckless actions could tip the scales in unpredictable ways. And Skiadrum is most fond of Balance."

'Ah, Balance,' Vali mused, his eyes narrowing at the thought. 'That's what it always comes back to, doesn't it? The delicate dance of forces trying to maintain their equilibrium.'

"Exactly," Albion affirmed. "And as beings of immense power, it's our responsibility to be wary of how we influence that balance. Especially now, when someone like Naruto Uzumaki is reshaping the definitions of what we thought possible."

Vali grinned, feeling a thrill rise within him at the prospect of meeting this enigmatic new warrior. 'Then it's settled. We'll approach cautiously but stay true to our nature. After all, the world won't wait for us to make up our minds.'

The room was buzzing with speculation and whispers, but Vali was disconnected from it. His focus had zeroed in on the prospect of meeting Naruto. But for now, all he could do is wait, his thoughts a blend of impatience and excitement, disappointment and hope. Vali knew that the world is on the cusp of a seismic shift, and for the first time in a long time, he couldn't predict where the cracks would appear.

"Enough," the disguised figure accompanying Shalba finally interrupted, wearing a hidden cunning smile. "While I understand the fascination with this Naruto character and his peerage, I believe we're losing sight of our objective by overestimating his potential impact."

Cao Cao frowned, visibly irritated. "And what makes you think that, Schemer? We've just learned that he may wield a power potentially rivalling that of Ddraig and Albion. That alone merits discussion."

The figure folded his hands, opting for a veneer of reason, deciding to ignore Cao Cao's crude name for him. "I'm not arguing his power is insignificant; however, speculation and fixation serve us no purpose. If this Naruto is as potent as we believe, he'll become a wall, a barrier to our objectives. And if we can't utilise him, we'd do better to find a way to neutralise him, rather than wasting time pondering his existence." His statement made others pause.

"And as you said, your member only saw him from a distance, due to its scale, he may have missed others say- that Kyuubi destroyed thousands of Oni's as well. I'm not saying he missed it, merely suggesting there is a chance of such a thing happening." He elaborated, getting more attention from others.

Cao Cao looked visibly frustrated as the conversation kept circling back to his group's ineffectiveness. "That boy is a problem, one we cannot ignore." He argued blindly, his voice reaching a new high.

Ophis listened, her eyes like dark pools, absorbing the intensity of the discussion. "The power of Skiadrum is indeed formidable," she mused.

Cackling under his hood, Diodora seized the moment to interject. "I agree," he said, his voice calm but authoritative, drawing all eyes to him. "But we've only seen one instance of this young man's abilities, that too against an enemy he was emotionally motivated to defeat. That doesn't automatically make him a universal threat or an asset worth recruiting and definitely not make him the second coming of Skiadrum."

Cao Cao's eyes narrowed. "You think we should ignore him?"

Diodora shook his head. "No, I'm saying we should be cautious in our assumptions. What if he's a one-trick pony? We could waste valuable resources going after someone who may not be a significant player in the larger conflict."

Internally, Diodora's thoughts were a labyrinth of ulterior motives. 'If they bring Naruto into the Brigade, taking Lavinia Reni by force will become impossible. She's linked to him, and I can't jeopardise my true plans by making a play for her within the organisation. Better to paint Naruto as an anomaly, an exception rather than the Dragon they think of him as.'

His hood obscured his face, but one could almost sense the smug grin forming. 'Let them underestimate him. That serves my agenda well. As long as they're focused elsewhere, I can go about my plans unhindered.'

The room was silent for a moment, contemplating The 'Schemer's' words. Finally, Ophis spoke: "Your counsel is wise. We have many other matters to attend to. This Naruto will be observed, but we won't divert resources...yet."

Diodora almost jumped in joy. The first stage of his plan is in motion, and he has successfully directed the Brigade's attention away from Naruto, at least for the time being. Now to get the Ouroborus.

With the final conclusion made, the members of the Khaos Brigade dispersed from the meeting room, Ophis, the Dragon God, gestured for Diodora to approach her. With a sense of ceremony, her eyes met his, piercing through the hood that concealed his identity. "Schemer," she began, her voice devoid of emotion, "your words have weight, and your ideas hold potential chaos. A fitting attribute for one who will wield the Ouroboros."

Ophis extended her arm, and from the void that seemed to form around her, the Ouroboros symbol materialised. Diodora extended his left hand, meeting her hand and the purplish-black Ouroboros got imprinted on his left palm. As Diodora took it, a rush of chaotic energy surged through him. His body absorbed the symbol, and he felt as if a cyclone of raw, unbridled power had been unleashed within him.

'So this is the Ouroboros,' he thought, nearly trembling with exhilaration. As Diodora felt the Ouroboros integrate with his very essence, a torrent of complex emotions and dark ambitions spiralled through his mind.

'This power... it's unlike anything I've ever felt. A true game-changer. I'm ascendant, beyond even the most arrogant of devils who've ever scorned me,' he mused internally, revelling in his newfound strength.

However, amidst this whirlpool of egotistical and grandiose thoughts, the face of Lavinia Reni kept emerging like a beacon. 'Lavinia, my love Princess, who has always been out of my reach. You chose to align yourself with Naruto, a nobody. How you'll regret that decision,' his thoughts grew darker, fueled by a twisted blend of desire and resentment.

'But now, the tables have turned. With the Ouroborus, I possess something that even Naruto can't match. I can imagine it, the look on his face when he realises that he's outmatched, that he can't protect what he cherishes,' Diodora fantasised, a malevolent grin forming in the recesses of his hood.

His thoughts turned even more insidious. 'And once I've shown Naruto his place, shown him the futility of his actions, claiming Lavinia will be like plucking a ripe fruit from a tree. She won't have a choice. The Ouroboros and I will make sure of it,' he strategized, his mind sketching out warped scenarios in vivid detail.

His internal monologue took a darker turn. 'Lavinia, you won't be able to resist the chaos I'll bring. You'll be a crucial piece in my grand scheme, a scheme that will see the Devils, the World bow before me, and you, my Princess, will be at my side whether you like or not.'

The feeling of the Ouroboros within him intensified these dark desires, making them feel not just possible, but inevitable. His resolve hardened, 'First, Naruto and his peerage. Then, the world. And finally, my dear Lavinia, you.'

In this moment, Diodora felt as though he is invincible, untouchable. His twisted aspirations didn't feel like mere fantasies anymore; they are concrete goals, and objectives that are well within his reach. And for Diodora Astaroth, this newfound sense of empowerment is intoxicating to the point of madness.

And Cut.

That's it for this Chapter, folks.

Hope you all liked it. Tell me, what you think of the chapter and story in general.

Any suggestions are welcomed.

Next chapter will be on 2nd January.

I'll eagerly wait for your arrival in the Dawn!

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See y'all in the next chapter.

Black Infinity 1289,

Ja Ne.