Leifazu's POV (Canyon of Chakra Anchor - Western River Plains)

Early Evening

It had been a dull day thus far. Mishiro could not move and seemed too occupied for their plan to move forward in any meaningful way. While the barrier was nearly impenetrable, with the Okama as their enemy, it would be unwise for them to rely on it as their sole defense. While Leifazu may enjoy Mishiro's death, she would not enjoy her own upon Ikam learning of her failure in protecting her.

It left a horde of wasps and their Queen nervously buzzing around inside the barrier but staying as far from them as possible. Suzumebachi had attempted to join their fold but had been rebuffed and now sat glaring at Leifazu hatefully alone, close to them but clearly still defiant. Leifazu ultimately cared little; but why was the bitch blaming her!

Luckily, the dozen animals captured by the wasp were less angry. The poison from the Queen and Suzumebachi's technique was nothing less than total control. As long as the Queen lived, the limits on the number of victims Suzumebachi had warned them of were not a factor. Three Okama stared woodenly at Leifazu; a man-sized spider seemed to sleep, legs curled as it dazed. Leifazu hadn't known they did sleep. Three wolves sat with rapt attention, the apex predators reduced to waiting with loyalty like a pet. Another trio of deer. Even a giant worm that held no eyes was partially buried. Only a bit of head pointing out to point its mouth at them. An enslaved and strange platoon, but a helpful backup plan.

With the tense silence and boredom threatening to kill her latest body, Leifazu had been elated when the barrier flared with a disturbance. Someone or something had attempted to bypass their shield and somehow evaded the senses herself and the litany of enhanced senses from the beast under their forced employ. Doing so until this close was no small feat. Indeed, this threat may be worthy of her attention. With a whistle, Leifazu had the wasp, Queen, and their animal army form a defensive perimeter around Mishiro. With their leverage over Suzumebachi and the Queen, installing themselves as the ultimate leader of the wasp and beast was easy. They would serve to protect Mishiro well in her absence. Making this little errand in her mind completely justified. "Suzumebachi comes with me; I may need a human shield."

"Fuck you." Suzumebachi spat. All the same, the woman rose and walked over to join her side. Her inability to escape their employ seemed to have settled into her mind. Suzumebachi was still openly hateful of them but had made a point of following their orders without much resistance. Leifazu felt some compassion, but expendables were expendable; she didn't make the rules, merely played within them.

"Anytime~!" Leifazu sang as they two leaped off.

"If this is a booty call seal or not, I will kill you." The Kamizuru declared as two raced up the wall of the newly formed canyon. "I'll do many things to survive, but forsaking myself isn't one of them."

"I'll have you know Leifazu always gets consent first; I'm a proud killer, not a monster." Leifazu disagreed, sure she enjoyed killing, but she felt no pleasure in torture of any kind, assault fit that bill.

"Agree to disagree, you certainly are one." Suzumebachi spat. "Why are we moving out?"

Funny how she made a question sound like a demand. Even in defeat, the woman still had pride; Leifazu was beginning to warm up to her human shield. "All business then, someone or something attempted to breach the barrier with a powerful attack of some kind. I sensed the disturbance moments ago. While it's unlikely anything could breach this barrier, but Ikam warned us to not underestimate the Okama Clan. You and I will check on this and, if necessary, kill whoever is responsible."

"As long as that helps us get out here faster." Suzumebachi sighed.

"Kidnapped or not, I'd love to just sleep in a bed now. So, do you have any idea what we're facing?"

"Whatever it was wasn't insignificant; the barrier reacted sizably. It's designed to alert us of any attack it's subjected to. Based on the feedback wave, whatever tried to get in has a considerable bite. Two hostiles; one seems relatively weak. Maybe Chunin level at best; the other seems considerably more problematic. If their attack potency and chakra level are anything to go by, they may be high Jounin level." Leifazu explained all business now. "I'll handle the initial confrontation; hide yourself nearby. Only show yourself if it seems I'm in peril or there's more than I can reliably hunt down."

"I sincerely hope they kill you before I can stop them." Suzumebachi offered. "Would be a small mercy."

"Even if they did, it wouldn't free you from Ikam or my company." Leifazu sniped back. "Besides, the only threat to me here is Mishiro."

With their feelings made known, the two women split up. The attack had been in the southern quadrant of their barrier—a small clearing between the spare trees and rivers, filled with luscious grass. Suzumebachi leaped into a deep crevice just past the tree line, stooping low and suppressing her chakra to lie in wait. Leifazu leaped past her and clearing to face the barrier wall directly.

There was no need for true investigation. The culprits stood on the other side of the barrier, waiting patiently and expectantly. Two of them, a dark-skinned and beautiful man, stylishly dressed in a feather body coat and no shirt. He seemed utterly impressed with the barrier, lightly tapping such with a giant feather of all things, which even more oddly withstood the effects of touching it. Besides him, was a younger short woman dressed in a simple orange sundress of all things, though she had a whip drawn, showing she wasn't defenseless.

"Ah, I had hoped the culprits of this beautiful technique would show themselves after my little cry for attention!" The man excitedly declared from the other side of the barrier. The airtight wall made hearing him nearly impossible, but Leifazu could read lips fine enough. Enough to catch the man silently warning his companion to remain silent. A leader, then. "My name is Blechumi; I am something of an evolved human, one with interest in the Chakra Anchor your lot is currently toying with."

Leifazu silently pondered the information for a second. Yet another party was present in the wildlands, yet the pair clearly weren't shinobi of any village she had heard of. Perhaps even humans inhabited these lands? Why were they after the chakra anchor? Should she kill them? Leifazu focused back on them, seeing Blechumi had apparently continued talking.

"I will admit, even with my considerable power and knowledge, I cannot overcome this barrier. A problem since your actions deter my own plans and aims. I'd ask what your goal is; despite this rather lacking introduction, there is a chance we can be friends instead of foes. Assuming our goals align, I'd be happy to aid you a lot, as long as you don't mind returning the favor. By the way, tell that foolish woman to show herself. No mere humans can hide from me." Blechumi haughtily offered.

"I don't really care who you are." Leifazu countered as she snapped fingers, signaling that Suzumebachi would join her side. There was no point in hiding anyway; Leifazu had detected no lies from his earlier claim of being unable to enter nor did he seem to be bluffing on somehow detecting Suzumebachi. This strange man was clever and had some power, a potential threat. Though this man was strange, and clearly the powerful presence she felt earlier. Alert enough to detect Suzumebachi from within the barrier and able to read lips as well as she did. An art Leifazu had struggled to master over decades, just who was this man. "As for our goals, there's no harm in sharing such with you; you're heedless to oppose us even if we are foes anyway. We plan to gain total control of the Chakra Anchor."

"Such would allow you to control what comes in and out of Terra as a whole…" Blechumi admitted with a frown. "For what aim?"

"We plan to weaken the Elemental Nations as a whole. Our foes hide among them, making them all enemies of us. Without the power of summons and the exclusive ability for us to wield them, we'd gain a tremendous advantage. Not to mention, we intend to gain Okama under control as well. Screwing the rest of Terra is more of a side effect than an intention." Leifazu shrugged flippantly.

"Your act of appearing nonchalant is not convincing," Blechumi replied with a smirk. "Even a child would realize this would also have an unparalleled influence throughout Terra. An entire new world would be at your beck and call. Shortly after, the summoning clans would even be at your mercy. Quite the ambitious ploy, based on the lack of combat and your seeming so relaxed, must've even found a way to do as you say. No small feat considering this barrier and the missing presences of the Nature Golem. How interesting, luckily I have no problem with this plan. In fact, I'll even assist you; I only ask if I do so I get a piece of the pie." Leifazu eyed the woman beside him, who seemed to flinch at their plans. Blechumi's lackey wasn't as keen as he was. Unimportant but being observant of one's foe was always a good idea.

"That could be arranged…" Leifazu pretended to ponder it over. In truth, the second Mishiro was done with the Chakra Anchor; she was confident they could have another two Suzumebachi's at their call. Forced help was rather convenient. Working together until Mishiro was back would allow them to further their goals without much risk. Once their leader was back they could see about using them further, however… "Why would we trust you two, however?"

"A being like myself does not need falsehoods, not when my next evolution is so close," Blechumi assured. "I only came to see why the wasp had attacked my allies. I see you all are scheming similarly to me. I have gained the aid of the Runic Wolves Tamaki and the Shinobi Cat clan. With our aid, your plans will go off without a hitch. Besides, with the forces closing in on you, I'd figure you'd welcome the aid. I will crush one of the two groups for you; in exchange, all I ask is you allow me to join the fold and enjoy the benefits of this little plan."

Leifazu narrowed her eyes suspiciously, flaring her chakra. She could sense Suzumebachi doing the same. Both flinched as multiple chakra signals were close by. One seemed to be inactive, but the other was closing in even as they spoke. In a mere hour, they would arrive. Two groups were closing in from both sides. It seems the Leaf Shinobi had caught onto their position and decided to launch an assault. How exciting!

The smart move is to shelter within the barrier. Taking a risk on Blechumi when they were so safe would be foolish. But crushing them now when they were assembled would make guarding Mishiro at all a null point. Without other shinobi present, there would be no actual threat left. Besides, Blechumi had said something of evolving; if that chakra flare was anything to go on, the man was something substantial. Leifazu wouldn't let him in, but using him would be perfect now. If he sent the two after one of the groups, they would either kill or, at the very least, stall and weaken them, a win-win. Blechumi must be confident in his power to offer this anyway. Likely they'd have one less headache to worry about.

"You said you weren't human earlier; I don't follow," Leifazu asked with a raised brow. It was best to figure out this guy was a fellow nutcase after all.

"I have lived a long life amongst these intelligent beasts, learning their secrets and skills. Such a life has allowed me to surpass my humanity. The full details are less than important now. Rest assured, I'd be a most beneficial ally; if you'd have it, I'll remove one of those groups as said earlier…"

"Fine, kill them and return, and we'll discuss it further." Leifazu snorted. In truth, he had yet to determine if this little partnership would work. But if it did, it would only benefit them. Mishiro would be sure to approve. If not they'd either be dead or helpless to interfere. Blechumi bowed graciously, his lackey copying such before both body flickered away.

Leifazu hummed as she considered what to do next. Even with their new allies, many shinobi were sure to arrive here soon enough. Cutting them off without knowing what she was heading toward would be better. Going solo would be foolish; even with Suzumebachi it'd be risky… "Kamizuru Servant. Order the Queen and her own servants to our location. We'll intercept the other group of Leaf shinobi; once we crush them, we'll check on Blechumi. Have her leave our newest recruits guarding Mishiro. She should be fine with them and the barrier while we have fun."

"Why are we leaving the literally impenetrable fort we have to approach threats? You all seem so confident in this barrier. Wouldn't it be much more reasonable to use it?" Suzumebachi asked hatefully.

"Oh, they won't get in; my little excuse earlier was just that. But why risk it? We know our bitchy boss is safe, so we might as well be on offensive. Leaving them the chance to mess with it only increases the odd they counter the barrier. Besides, I'm just raring to go for a good fight to the death. I have a suspicion they'll provide such." Leifazu explained.

"Well what about working with Blechumi? We have no clue if he can be trusted nor if he's strong enough to be of any use." Suzumebachi continued to question her.

"They can't be trusted yet, that's obvious. But that man is powerful, nearly as strong as myself. Meaning well and truly out of your own league. If their good to their word it's doubtless they'll be useful." Leifazu chuckled. "They'll likely be fine and, if not, will cause quite a bit of trouble before they perish. With our stronger force, we'll finish off our own group with ease. Pick off the remnants of the other, or pick up Blechumi. And return to Mishiro with our enemies dead and new allies in tow."

"If you hate her, why do you follow her?" Suzumebachi asked, hatred faltering to curiosity. "You seem quite capable; surely you'd be fine alone. Hell help me get my own freedom and I'd be an ally. I'm sure my Lord would…"

"Four things stop me. One your lord will not do a favor for a Jounin that struck out on her own and has been sealed. Two Ikam gets what he wants; for now, my service is one of those wants. Three, my unique semi-immortality is tied with them; even if I wanted to and managed to escape, I'd lose my greatest strength. Four, I love violence, and they will surely cause plenty. Working as their underling assures me I'll be in the middle of it all." Leifazu listed with a shrug. "Progress on calling upon our buggy back up?"

"They're not bugs, their wasps!"

"Still an insect therefore a bug."

"Die already, you buggy bastard!" Suzumebachi snapped before they were interrupted by the buzzing anger and flapping wings of a wasp as the Queen and her soldiers arrived. They were obviously furious to be summoned like this. Leifazu watched as Suzumebachi felt a stab of shame visible on her face. She had intended to use this sanctioned mission to build up her clan. Now, she was lost to them and had cost them their best summons… how delightfully horrible.

"Man, everyone is so unfriendly today!" Leifazu complained. "Was it something I said? Maybe something I did?"

The collective group of forced help offered no response. Merely glares at the shameless woman.

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Darui's POV (Jounin Command Center - Hidden Cloud Village)

Evening

There was a massive commotion within the Cloud Village. Chunin and Genin raced to and from new defensive outposts that were stationed not only throughout the village but throughout the lightning country. Such drastic measures and movements were usually saved for dire times. A defensive perimeter so dense and extensive was as costly as it was disruptive to civilian life. As such it was reserved for only the tensest of times. Anbu and Intelligence members also prowled throughout the village; occasionally, they would stop and detain civilians or shinobi alike. Anyone suspected of disloyalty was imprisoned for a term undetermined yet alleged to be life by many. Various artillery was being placed and supplied in the high evaluation points throughout their home. Capable of not only deterring invaders but launching raining death throughout the Lightning Country. Their village had always been one of the most militant of the Five Great Villages but now literal martial law had been established. Darui was sure other villages would suffer from the population decrying such thoughtless treatment. But loyalty toward the military was treated as sacredly as religion here.

These all weren't necessarily new developments. A and the Cloud had always been partial to preventive measures. Peace could only last so long, after all. Something Darui supposed he hesitantly agreed with. War was anything but dull after all, but he would admit to feeling deeply disturbed those times may come so soon yet again. Though it was not his job to question orders nor did he think he could do much better. A was many things, but an effective leader had always been one. All the same, the rapid acceleration of what A had been doing slowly for years now alarmed Darui. Whatever A had going on, he was making a move soon. One that seemed ultimately unnecessary and cruel. Darui had intended to question him about such a thing. As his Personal Advisor and Jounin Commander, he was within his right to ask to be briefed. Though demanding such would be a fool's errand, it was better to tread softly with the temperamental Raikage. Luckily, Darui had no need to find time and a tactful reason to talk to A; for A had demanded Darui and his other advisor C's presence. C was one of the few A never seemed to mind feedback from, so his presence would be a boon.

It wasn't as if Darui was opposed to A's actions. While Darui certainly wasn't as blood or war-hungry as his peers, he felt pride in the strength in his home. And would happily serve to improve for those after him. While he would be content to be entertained alone, but he recognized his home demanded more and that he was duty-bound to provide it. But A was moving so suddenly it was concerning. The Leaf and Sand were in an alliance, the only true alliance between the five. If this was an aggressive move like Darui suspected, it could go pear-shaped. The Stone were no friends currently, and the Mist was a nonfactor. It is not exactly a position of strength, yet Darui had faith this wasn't a compulsive move by A.

Darui sighed tiredly as he crept past his receptionist in the dull front office. Paperwork was his constant annoyance, and as both an Advisor and Jounin Commander, he received plenty, enough to have his own office staff cover it for him. Seeing his boss have even more paperwork gave him a headache. Past this was a shower room and break room for Jounin, further inside the quarters for Anbu, and finally Darui's own office. Marching past the former, Darui opened the latter's door and inwardly sighed at what he saw. C was slightly in front of him, face in his palm, in the scene before him. It was just like A to hold a meeting of his own at someone else's property. But Darui cared too little to risk being annoyed about it.

A group of Anbu and Intelligence members were present. Particularly those good at infiltrating and returning from hostile territory. "You all are to deliver this directly to an upper member of the four villages. You are to assume you will need to escape a hostile space in the process and should commit suicide if necessary to avoid capture. You recognize you may perish on this mission but also recognize such is an honor you're scarcely worthy of." A monologue to the men. His eyes flicked over to the two of them, a smirk breaking out as they did. "Move out, remember the Cloud does not forgive failure; should you create such, do not return." A's tone was grave and a bit more animated than usual. A clear sign his infamous temper had been flaring as of late. To question his orders at that moment would be a death sentence. Luckily the Cloud knew their glorious leader well and the men dutifully appeared ready to venture forth on their dangerous mission. The threat of banishment upon failure of a mission wasn't necessarily unheard of. There was examples throughout the history of all Five Great Villages. But it was most common in the Cloud. To fail a mission given directly by the Raikage was a grave offense. To be frank Darui was surprised they weren't threatened with Execution instead.

As such, it was no surprise to Darui when the group started to body flicker away. The three of them watched silently until they were alone in the room.

"Excellent." A chuckled merrily as he chucked a bottle of wine and three flutes to Darui to C. "I was hoping you'd arrive soon. I wanted to brief you on our next moves, give you your next orders, and celebrate a plan coming together."

"A plan?" C asked.

"Aye. Pour me one, fools, yourselves as well." A ordered. Even among his trusted few the pecking order was always made clear with A. C and Darui worked flawlessly in tandem, pouring the three flutes of wine and settling around Darui's desk. A settled into it and his office chair with a relaxed sigh. Darui and C were sitting at the chair he left for the guest; the irony of being a guest in his own office wasn't lost on him. The three sipped and settled in.

Darui and C knew better than to rush their leader. A would explain himself when he was good and ready. Luckily, their patience here was rewarded soon enough. Upon draining half his flute with several large gulps, he began. "Since I heard of the supposed disappearance of several key Leaf Genin and Chunin, including their Jinchuriki, I have had a realization. The time for peace is bound to end soon, and we need to be the ones prepared, even the ones who start the flames of war."

"I don't mean to be disrespectful, sir," C offered apologetically. "But the Sand and Leaf alliance has been why we have remained stuck. Even the Cloud would struggle in a two-on-one war. The Stone is not an ally of ours and the Mist would not be a factor either. The war while necessary brings us at risk of suffering the repercussions primarily.

"I know, of course." A answered smugly. "However, the Leaf and Sand no longer monopolize a true alliance. In my true wisdom, I reached out to the Stone. Offering to wipe the slate clean and form something of an alliance. Our Daimyo's meet as we speak to hash out potential terms and tweak any turbulence."

"So you do intend to wage war, sir?" Darui asked with wide eyes. "So soon?"

"While that is the goal, it is not the current stage of the plan. I need to stir the pot if I wish to allow war to blossom and end these peaceful times. The next stage will ensure that such will happen as I wish." A explained.

"Not dull but certainly risky," Darui added. "Then I would assume that our new orders and plans would be in regards to such?"

"Aye, I am putting in work the motions to force another Five Kage Summit. I'll need the two of you to serve as my guards." A explained.

"There, you'll announce the alliance publicly between Cloud and Stone, locking them into it even if they had intended to betray it." C mused.

"You intend us to be your guards for such, reasonable considering how likely this is to go ugly." Darui added.

A laughed with his gut. "Nailed it in one, my guards! Once we get words from the others, and work out the fine details it'll be time!"

"We will of course follow your orders sir." Darui assured. "Though I must ask once again if war so soon is truly the best idea?"

"Of course not, I intend to wait for the end of the Mist Civil War. Regardless of who wins or loses, they'll be in no state to be much of a threat; at this point, we'll march into the land and claim it for ourselves; the boon of resources will aid us greatly. Add momentum to our power and with the might of ourselves and our allies crush our foes. If all works out in our favor, we'll be in the perfect position to crush the stone after and raise our village to the position it's always yearned for …" A explained. "Soon, we will serve our true purposes."

"I suppose it won't be dull…" Darui agreed. He maintained his normal, unbothered demeanor, but in truth, A's bloodthirsty nature struck fear in him. It was unnerving seeing a man so excitedly plot to throw the world into utter chaos…

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Naruto's POV (Ruins of The Den - Western River Plains)

Evening

The battle between them and the Runic Wolves had been short but chaotic. Naruto and Sasuke had easily defeated their forces even while holding back a fair bit, but they had worn themselves out all the same. Similarly, Kiba and Choji needed to catch their breaths as well. A mix of rations and water allowed the group to relax and regroup. They were lounging on top of the collapsed entrance of the Den's prison. Nearby, the giant corpse of Fenrir.

Naruto had noticed that Muri was not dining with them and instead seemed to be kneeling in front of Fenrir's corpse. The Okama seemed remorseful and whispered something quietly to itself. It was almost like a prayer but much less formulaic than any prayer he had heard before. Naruto subtly split off from the others and approached his summon.

"Muri, are you alright?" Naruto asked as he stood next to his summon. However, Muri did not respond vocally but with their link. Naruto could feel the terror and anger Fenrir had felt as Naruto and Sasuke had bested him. The despair and disbelief of the other wolves, the pain it drew out of Muri. 'Empathic, of course, you're not; for someone as perceptive as you, that must've been terrible. I… wish it didn't have to go that way.'

Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

'I know Naruto. Even while you struck the finishing blows, I felt no malice in your heart… in truth, I recognize this is merely life. We sometimes fight, and in combat, we may die. It's something this mission has made clear to me, something other Okama know all too well. It just feels… wasteful. Fenrir, at one time, was an honorable and respectful Clan Boss. For a nonsummoning clan like his own, becoming a creature worthy of the boss title is no small feat, and deep down, he truly loved his clan. Perhaps he deserves this fate, but all the same, I find myself wondering if there isn't a better way. Even the Okama would've struck him down… is that the way of the world, Uzumaki… I merely wash wishing the Great Sage would guide him to a peaceful afterlife.'

'I couldn't be certain myself. I've learned that this last year, the world is much bigger and more complex than I imagined. People come from all over, all with their own stories, mot, invitations, and dreams. But all too often they stand in each other's way. They hurt and take from each other, and it doesn't stop. It blows my mind even in an entirely different world without us humans; the constant warfare and loss is a problem. I became a shinobi to pursue my goal of becoming Hokage. I wanted to become Hokage to prove that I could be loved and matter. Now, I want to become Hokage to make my village a better place for everyone, but as I continue, I keep finding more and more wrong in this world. It seems like everywhere I go, violence follows like it's the only answer to a problem. I can't pretend not to get it, but recently I wonder… Makes me wish there was some "Great Sage", at leas then I could take comfort in someone trying to right all these wrongs…'

'A shinobi who questions violence, such is why the Okama chose you, Naruto. It was why such a strong empath like myself was placed with you. No regular human would do, they exhibit much too many negative emotions consistently. But somehow your different… The Okama sees things similarly to you and wants to improve our world and yours. But we've lacked the strength and influence to pursue the goal; strife and time have weakened our drive to truly pursue it. But the more time I spend around you, Naruto, the more certain I am that you are what we've needed.' Muri echoed.

'I don't know about that, Muri, I just killed Fenrir. Hell I'm just a regular guy. I can barely become a shinobi worth a damn yet alone affect two whole worlds.'

'Self-defense, I can feel your guilt for it, Naruto. Don't play unbothered. That compassion within you, it is something shockingly missing from most being nowadays. Besides knowing you I'm being over generous.'

'Touche.' Naruto rolled his eyes, and he kneeled down next to Muri. The raccoon's eyes widened when Naruto bowed deeply to the downed Fenrir. 'I'm sorry it came to this, Fenrir; I promise one day to make Irminsul a better place for those like yourself. I'm unsure when it'll be, but you have Naruto Uzumaki's word. I hope you find peace, Fenrir Runic.' Naruto stood, offered one more small bow, and offered an arm to Muri. The blonde grinned as the stunned raccoon scampered onto his left shoulder. 'Don't worry, Muri, I meant every word.' Naruto promised as he and Muri rejoined the others. The raccoon seemed somewhat relieved by the blonde.

While Naruto and Muri were busy talking, the others packed up and discussed strategy.

"From what our scouting earlier showed, the Chakra Anchor, a physical chakra manifestation of the link between Terra and Earth, has been encased in a barrier. This is concerning because Muri informs us that if someone could gain control over such, they could effectively control all summonings in and out of and gain massive sway over Terra as a whole. Considering the Master's movements thus far, they are likely responsible. Our plan is relatively simple; we will strike out within a few hours of daylight. Muri will allow us to bypass the barrier, at which point we'll engage the perpetrators, likely this "Master."" Sasuke broke down. "Yuno, Kiba, and Choji, what can you tell us about this master?"

"I remember a woman. She seemed somewhat in control of the wolves, though I doubt she is this Master. When Choji and I were taken, I can remember a distinct chakra smothering us. Her chakra felt different, noticeably weaker for one." Yuno responded, rubbing her head all the while. "The rest is blurry for me."

"I can't remember too much, but I can remember the attack and my detainment." Kiba chimed in. "After I got my ass kicked by Gaara, I got taken to medical. Akamaru and I were catching some sleep when suddenly wolves appeared in the room. Exhausted in a small space and being well and truly out numbered, they managed to subdue Akamaru and hold me down long enough for us all to be teleported. Left behind my boy too. I arrived smack dab in the middle of that cave from the Runic Camp, and the wolves let me go, but I still couldn't budge. Suddenly, this Master bastard showed up in front of my face. I can remember a rough description. Tall, tan, and muscular, with long dark braided hair. Somehow, he was holding me up in midair with a single finger and used that same trick to force my mouth open. Suddenly, I felt my whole body freeze, my mind stopped, and I only cared what he thought, and my anger… grew. I wanted nothing more than to show you all I wasn't nearly as weak as you thought. To prove my strength to everyone and myself through my service…"

"That's what I saw when I freed Choji. It seems the seal manipulates emotions to extremes to coerce the victim to follow the user's orders. That gives us two culprits," Yuno added with a nod.

"So the master is definitely a male then!" Choji agreed. "I saw the same guy when I got taken! He even did the floating thing to me… though now that I think of it…"

"What is it, Choji?" Sasuke asked with a raised brow. "This situation is much too serious for us to not explore all the thinking we are privy to."

"Well, now that I look back on it, I remember thinking he was moving his fingers a lot more than any normal person does. It managed to snag my attention, and I realized why just now. It reminded me a bit of how Kankuro from the exams fights, almost like he was manipulating a puppet." Choji explained.

"So we have a mystery woman, and we now know what the master looks like and that he may be a puppeteer," Naruto concluded. "Why are we moving so quickly anyway? We haven't even found everybody yet."

"Two reasons, Uzumaki," Sasuke explained. "Firstly, the others are more than likely together. Our group has thoroughly explored the North and South and most of the West. Meaning the only area we haven't explored is the East. With Hinata, Shino, Lee, and Sakura still missing, they are almost certainly there; likewise, with their skills and intelligence in mind, they most likely have gathered like ourselves. If they did, they would eventually decide to investigate the Chakra Anchor just as we are."

"So you figure heading there gives us a decent chance to find the others and deal with a problem we'd need to either way," Naruto nodded. "At that point, worse comes to worse, we'd have eliminated a threat and know where to look anyway."

"Well said, Blondie!" Yuno snarked with an earnest smile. "Wouldn't it be better if we waited until morning, however? As interesting as these crawling demons seem, we risk dealing with them if we strike tonight."

"It's a risk," Sasuke admitted. "However, it's one we need to take."

"He's right." Kiba agreed, Choji nodding as well, much to the bemusement of Naruto and Yuno. "Can't blame the two of you for not knowing as non heirs, but so many of us being missing at once is a major deal, the jinchuriki of the Leaf even more so than the former. If the other villages learned of this, they might devise absurd ideas."

"Great a race against time," Naruto complained. "On top of a world full of somewhat hostile intelligent life, and a band of mysterious shinobi so villainous one of them openly calls themselves "The Master" great."

"Not a true one!" Muri chimed in confidently. "Even the Crawling Demons avoided the anchor before the golems had formed. Nighttime should be no real threat, assuming we get there timely."

Naruto nodded, more pleased with the plan. "Are we sure we shouldn't rest, though? I can keep going for a while, but that last fight was costly. Surely, resting for the night would make us better prepared. The rest of you can't go nearly as long as me after all."

"We've rested long enough; if we intend to save our friends and get home in time to not cause a stir, we must not waste time." Sasuke countered. "The sooner we confirm the security of the Chakra Anchor, the sooner we can take our leave. Besides, with the Master not being here, we can be all the more certain he's there."

The group nodded as they prepared to leap out of the camp's remnants. However, their take was stopped when Yuno and Sasuke cried out in sync suddenly.

"Dodge!"

"Dodge!"

Naruto blinked as Sasuke teleported forward and kicked off Kiba and Choji's heads, dropping them to the ground and kicking himself up high into the air. Naruto himself was bodily tackled by Yuno, the two collapsing into a heap.

Their cry and sudden action proved fortuitous as a sharp whistle sounded throughout the clearing. The group awkwardly climbed to their feet and raised their guards as the trees and large stones surrounding the cove suddenly cracked, splitting cleanly in two and leveling the elevation of the cove. Naruto blinked as he felt a massive disturbance in the air. Drawing Riptide with a curse and channeling chakra into it, he raced forward, leaping into the air as Riptide began to glow with chakra. Naruto frowned as he faced the disturbance and slashed out with a cry.

"Draw of the Maelstrom: Slicing Wave!" Naruto cried as he condensed his wind nature chakra into the blade before releasing a shooting line of slicing chakra forward. Suddenly, from deep within, the trees cut massive gleaming lines of thread; the wind blade and threads collided with an ungodly screeching before both canceled out with an explosion. "Seems like the Master has shown himself." Naruto explained calmly as the severed threads and dust settled around him the blond spearheading the group as they waited for the attacker to show themself.

"I'm out of shape if you sensed my sneak attack and matched my follow-up." A man joked as he exited the forest with a woman beside him. Despite having just tried and failed to kill them, he seemed relaxed and calm. As if visiting old friends as opposed to facing new threats. "Surviving not one but two attacks from a being like me is no small feat. My name is Blechumi, and my student here is Tamaki. We were the leaders of the Runic Wolves that you just destroyed, and yes, by proxy, this Master you've heard so much of…" Blechumi explained. He glanced at Fenrir with disdain. "I admit these fools represented me poorly. Their strength was better than my first clan, but their lack of grace was shameful. Truly, by destroying them, you've done me a favor. One I'll repay by offering the quickest deaths I can. But first…" Blechumi lazily began to wave his hand at Fenrir's corpse. Within seconds, the duplicate threads that had nearly cut the group in two formed and wrapped around the giant wolf. With a violent wave of his hand the wire began to contract into the beast. With each stroke, they cut the beast into pieces. Before tearing through cleanly, leaving the wolf shredded into small pieces. The woman flinched at the grizzly actions of her Master, but Naruto was much more active in response. Shooting air from his feet, he burst forward, appearing as a blur. Riptide struck out for Blechumi's neck, who raised an arm to block the blow. Naruto was shocked that Riptide did not cut through it, but his strength made the blow worthy. Sending Blechumi careening through several trees with pure power.

"Forcing someone to fight for you then disrespecting their corpse?" Naruto asked angrily. "There's no way in hell you're the Blechumi of the same name as that clan!" Sasuke appeared next to Naruto Besmirched Flambe, the deadly technique was active and ready.

"Nice strike, but he managed to block it. You saw that, right?" Sasuke asked.

"Yeah," Naruto admitted. "Bastard was cutting up a giant easier than either of us could. And just tanked a sword to the arm without losing it. No doubt he's strong."

Naruto and Sasuke both turned, but a whip cracked and nearly smacked Naruto's face. Yuno appeared before it could however, stabbing the whip into the ground with a kunai shocking speed. She smiled at the sneak attacking Tamaki who had crept behind them. Yuno pounced forward, but Tamaki merely smiled back at her as the whip moved on its own, growing longer and raising its tip before snapping out. It wrapped around Yuno's throat tightly within an instant, stopping her charge.

"You dare attack the Master?!" Tamaki asked, incensed. "I will teach you humility!"

"Maybe the master should've taught you better defenses against Genjutsu," Sasuke replied calmly.

"Seriously, even I would've seen that one." Naruto agreed. The two watched as the stunned Tamaki stared at them before Yuno's double faded. Realizing she had been duped, Tamaki flinched, allowing the real Yuno to land a flying kick to her ribs, sending her careening into the river.

"This one's mine, boys," Yuno concluded as she marched forward. Stomping on top of the surface of the water with a purpose.

"My my my, you both can sense my power. Incredible, isn't it? It makes even the two of you seem weak and unremarkable." Blechumi replied conversationally as he stalked toward Naruto, Sasuke, Kiba, and Choji.

"There's no doubt about it," Kiba growled angrily, dropping to all fours and readying a food pill. "This is that master bastard I was telling you about."

"We gotta be careful!" Choji cried out as he nervously prepared himself. "This guy was strong enough to easily keep me in check!"

"We don't have time for this." Naruto interrupted. "The rest of you get going, I'll take care of this bastard."

"That won't work. You may not be the most intelligent, but surely even you can feel what I feel," Sasuke interjected. "From his displays and his chakra potency, this guy is a real threat. He feels like he could quite possibly be on the same level as my sensei." Sasuke explained, glaring openly at Blechumi.

"I noticed, but if he's here and the barrier is still up, someone else is responsible for it." Naruto mused. "Isn't my staying back and taking him out the best plan?"

"We can't afford to risk it. You are arguably our strongest asset. Instead, you and I will take him on in tandem. This will assure our victory and allow us to keep an eye on Yuno as well," Sasuke countered.

"I'll stay as well." Muri decided grimly. "For one, this man is an enemy of the Okama; two, if he is as dangerous as you think, Naruto may need me."

"I get the idea. You all will handle these two while Choji and I investigate the Chakra Anchor. Since we know there's two separate parties here, it's more likely the others are either pursuing or being pursued by that party." Kiba caught on with a nod to Choji. "I'm gonna prioritize finding the others, by the way. The Chakra Anchor can wait."

"He's right. I want to make sure Shino and them are okay! Plus, I have to apologize to Hinata." Choji agreed.

"Sounds perfect, I wouldn't want it any other way." Naruto agreed with an easy smile. "We'll be counting on you to keep 'em safe till we arrive."

"As if we'd need either of you to protect our friends." Kiba snarked back before leaping off in pursuit of their allies. Sasuke blurred forward as Kiba turned his back, managing to sever a string aimed to pierce the Inuzuka from behind. Choji leaped off after Kiba once had sworn to give it his best. Offering a nervous nod to Naruto.

"This should be fine then." Sasuke decided as he eyed Blechumi intensely. Naruto skipped the staring fest, stretching lightly before the mayhem began. "Muri, keep an eye on Yuno for us as we battle. If things turn into her own fight, we'll need you to split off to aid her. That'll be your job."

"Shouldn't I stay with Naruto?" Muri asked. "When working together with Personal Atmosphere, we're nearly unbeatable."

"It'll be fine, Sasuke, and we will watch each other's backs," Naruto assured. "Besides, I could never lose to someone who'd turn their back on their own family."

Muri nodded, transforming into a sparrow and leaving the three men to stare off.

"I've been patient in waiting." Blechumi joked, finally seeing the two prepared for their battle. "I could've made their escape much more difficult, especially with my own student handling the girl. Tamaki is sure to kill her, you would need the rest of you to pose any true threat to me."

"It wouldn't have mattered if you tried," Sasuke assured.

"Yeah, we can't exactly allow you to go around kidnapping Shinobi." Naruto agreed. "Risking our friends and abandoning the clan you saved assured us we'd take you out either way upon our arrival."

"That is relieving to hear." Blechumi chuckled. "My most recent plan has been an efficient if not ill-satisfactory one. I planned to slowly and surely build a force capable of taking control of Irminsul. Human shinobi, of course, made for the perfect soldiers. But as satisfying and useful as that is, leaves much to be desired in fulfillment."

"Fulfillment?" Naruto asked, confused.

"Insanity, more like," Sasuke replied, bored.

"Such a human attitude, not that I can't relate, but is such a pedestrian way of living." Blechumi demeaned. "I have elevated beyond such limitations, both physical and mental. Those adorable peacocks, the amusing kitties, and many more clans were simply a means to an end."

"Regardless of such, why even inhabit Irminsul?" Sasuke asked, confused. The Uchiha seemed to keep Blechumi talking to keep an eye on Yuno, eyes snapping back whenever his attention began to lull. Naruto made sure to be ready to cover for him should Blechumi attempt to take advantage.

"I was a wanted man back in my day. Back when war and death were daily occurrences for shinobi and civilians alike. Hunted for unforgivable crimes, I spent my days cowering in fear. Until one morning I awoke here, taken care of by a deer clan long dead by now. This land has awarded me discoveries and strength I may never have had otherwise." Blechumi monologues, seemingly excited to tell his tale.

"You make it seem like you're old. You seem to be nearly our age." Naruto questioned.

"I am much older than I appear. My time here allowed me to grow and discover myself. No longer a criminal but merely yet another beast pursuing the ultimate evolution. Eventually I created a technique to do just that. By using a mix of Natural Ninjutsu and Ninshu, I can surround my body, particularly my heart, in chakra and my own unique threads allowing me all sorts of benefits. Increased speed, strength, durability, accelerated healing, and extended life expectancy. I became something more than the pathetic human I was. But all the strength and freedom could not solve my loneliness. Now that I had become something special, I needed to raise an army and gain followers. Of course, that plan led us here. Before, I had become something special and had escaped the meaninglessness of my life. Now, I have gained followers and even humans under my employ. With my new friendship with Ikam and them, I am truly ready. Once we deal with you and the others, I'll be ready to return to Elemental Nations. To gain and be recognized as what I have become."

"You won't be doing any of that," Naruto promised as chakra and wind channeled around him, cracking the ground he stood on. "An enemy of the Leaf will always find themself directly opposed. For taking my friends and abandoning the Blechumi Clan, we're going to make you pay."

"Naruto, for once in his life, is right." Sasuke agreed, eyes opening and Sharingan seemingly blazing. "One simply doesn't turn their back on family nor risk my own."

"Excellent, you're both motivated." Blechumi clapped theatrically. "Come at once, let me show you my elevated humanity! I will enjoy slowly overwhelming you both, and I'll ensure your deaths are humbling!"

As soon as Blechumi finished, Naruto blurred forward, and using his Ash Step, Sasuke closed the distance faster. Slashing Blechumi straight through the middle with Besmirched Flambe, the strange man could only gasp and keel over; the skin on his midsection burst into deep blisters and deep burns. Blechumi gasped breathlessly, likely unable to breathe or think with his insides being directly attacked by Sasuke's blade. Naruto drew even closer all the while, flooding his fist with chakra and surrounding it in the wind. Just before he arrived Sasuke savagely appeared again in front of the prone Blechumi, kicking his head up. Just in time for Naruto to land a wide-open haymaker directly to the face. Naruto roared as his fist smashed directly into the nose of the man; he felt the nose snap to the side from the blow, and even the bones in his face shattered. As the full motion of the blow was completed the man was launched away from the punch. Blechumi's entire body flew from the air, flying through the air like a ball before smashing the man headfirst into the rubble of the collapsed cave. Blechumi was sent careening so violently he smashed through the stones and was buried in the rubble. Surely shattering his body inside and out. The fight was already over…

"Unexpected," Sasuke complained. "With the game he was talking about, I didn't think he'd be so ill-prepared. I slashed straight for his lungs; he'll likely suffocate to death, assuming he survived all of that."

"Arrogance is a hell of a high," Naruto agreed. "I find a punch to the face is a good cure. Though yeah, I didn't think it'd be that easy. My luck is finally turning around!"

The rubble suddenly exploded outward, instantly reduced to dust. The cloud of fragmented stone enveloped the two, cursing and flinching from the debris surrounding them. Sasuke, in particular, seemed upset, rubbing at his eyes; perhaps that is why he missed what Naruto felt. With his trusty eyes impaired his perception was lowered. But Naruto could still feel the wind nearby, both in his control and violently ahead. Trusting his instincts, Naruto lashed out with a chop of air; in sync, a gust of wind took Sasuke's legs out from underneath him as Naruto ducked. A mere instant later, the cloud suddenly split into two. The attack carried on past them and cut a deep groove into the rough stone walls of the cove.

"I wouldn't count on it~! Now come, I shall revel in my victory over you both!" Blechumi cried out as several glowing strands of string emerged from his back. Despite crushed bones and burnt skin he had been suffering from before, the man appeared healthy and fine, even clean. "Try your best! Nothing you can do will stop me!"

----------------------------------------

Lee's Group POV (Nearby Chakra Anchor - Western River Plains)

Evening

X-X

Lee's POV

Finding the Chakra Anchor was no true problem. The strange item the Okama had described as covered in a barrier was visible as soon as one closed in. A giant semi-transparent red orb surrounded the area the Chakra Anchor was said to be. What had been described as a beautiful ravine had been destroyed, the gap widened, and much of the former walls had collapsed into the river, creating something of a dam. Pooling water grew as more and more of it was blocked. Causing the nearby rivers to overflow. Mono and Muuni had wanted to immediately attempt to bypass it. But Shino had objected, knowing their unknown enemies would likely notice such. Instead, they had elected to scout the area first.

The group slowly trekked around the barrier. Shino's allies were working on subtly attempting to tunnel under or around it; Hinata's eyes seemed a weakness, and the rest of them kept their guard up to ensure they were not caught off guard.

Lee flinched as he leaped from one tree to another, slightly ahead of the group. Kicking backward from one branch to another, he watched as the branch he had been standing on was cut free. He had thought he hears something cutting through the air. Shino, who had been behind him, joined him on the same branch, glasses sheening as both of their senses whirled to detect the unseen attacker.

Hinata, Sakura, Muuni, and Mono stopped just short of them, extending their senses. However, neither group's efforts were for naught as suddenly the ground between them bubbled before a massive wall of earth shot between them. Within seconds, a wall of dried mud stood between Shino Lee and the others with emblems of Iwa present. Both Lee and Shino flinched as a whistling of wind sounded, and both jumped in opposite directions, avoiding a pair of hatchets stabbing into the spots they had been standing.

"They're attempting to separate us!" Shino cried to Lee; Lee nodded, realizing keeping together was their best option. With a flick of both wrists, he freed his bandages using Ninshu to have them wrap around another branch and swing himself toward the still airborne Shino. Their attackers, however, were quicker. Another massive mud wall cut him off from Shino. Having no choice but to retreat or smash into it, Lee willed his bandages to swing back and swing him backwards, allowing him to land on the ground in front of the tree the two had started at.

A poof sounded off, causing Lee's head to snap up to the branch he had just been on. Where the strange hatchets had landed stood a redhead woman now holding both in her hands. She smiled sweetly at Lee, excitedly twitching as if it took everything she had not to charge at Lee. It was the woman from before! The one that had saved Suzumebachi!

"You must be a part of the ambushing force…" Lee mused out loud. "While this is a concerning turn of events, at the very least, my foe is now clear to me."

"Music to my ears, baby cheeks!" Leifazu cried out. "I had figured some fun was coming my way, but I never dreamed I'd get to find you so soon!"

"I have no choice but to come when whoever you all are causing such mayhem. Have you no heart for this natural world you disturb? Is your wants truly more important than the lives you have impacted? The answer to those questions and more is what I'll gain by defeating you!" Lee declared.

Leifazu, however, closed the distance so fast Lee could scarcely blink. The woman slightly shorter than him still seemed to loom over him and raised her face toward his mere centimeters apart. Lee backflipped by instinct, kicking Leifazu's chin as he did.

"I was certain when we first met." Leifazu had barely budged from the blow, only her head snapping up from the sudden kick. "To defeat an experienced Jounin is no small feat. I was certain you'd be a fun fight, the kind I lusted for!"

Lee blinked owlishly at such. Once, twice, he raised his bushy brows in confusion. "Excuse me?"

"I love two things in life," Leifazu explained. "Killing or being killed by others, or something equally as personal if not slightly more pleasurable. Since you are a foe, my options are limited; perhaps we can do the latter once I'm done with the former. Would make for a nice farewell gift…"

Lee blinked again. "Um, mam, I hate to be rude, but such… youthful desires are not fit for battle… besides, we don't even know each other's names!"

"My name is Leifazu Uzumaki, a weapon for Ikam and your current admirer and future murderer." Leifazu was introduced with a bow, one Lee couldn't help but notice; seemed intentional to show off the cleavage from her top. Lee flinched, ashamed to have even noticed such.

"I will not allow you to defeat nor seduce me," Lee assured. "My name is Rock Lee, a Genin of the Leaf; I cannot afford to allow you to have fun. I must defeat you quickly; forgive me for the harm I caused; it is not personal."

"Don't worry, Lee…" Leifazu trailed off as she spun her hatchets and prepared to charge in. "It'll be plenty personal…"

X-X

Shino's POV

Shino cursed as he was closed off from Lee. As he landed, he sent out dozens of allies to search for his allies and enemies. Shino removed his glove, revealing the dark purple hand as he scanned his surroundings.

However, his attention was snapped from it as several of his allies were killed before finding anything. Whipping his head around, he heard the buzzing of wasps and their small blurring shapes as they flew around him. It was just like Kurobachi and Jibachi…

"This mission thus far has been a net loss for me. That is to say, I'm in desperate need of a win. One that has presented itself with a damn bow on it. Hopefully, you can forgive me, Aburame…" a female voice called out.

Shino turned to see a shorter brown-haired woman staring at him from above. "You must be the leader of the Kamizuru I encountered earlier," Shino determined. "Why exactly are the Kamizuru working with a criminal, and here in Irminsul?"

"Such truly doesn't matter, Aburame. All that matters is that we are sworn enemies, and I am motivated to ensure you don't live. Besides, from what you said earlier, you are to blame for the deaths of Kurobachi and Jibachi…" Suzumebachi responded. "Any older sister what do what they could to avenge such, even if they were garbage."

Shino inwardly frowned but outwardly kept his cool. "I will deny both of them perished at my hand. But they attacked first in both instances, not that I think such will persuade you anyway."

"Your assumption is correct," Suzumebachi responded with ease. "My hatred for your clan and your actions truly doesn't matter anymore. I want to survive; to do such I must kill you."

"We need not be enemies; I know even Iwa wouldn't endorse such a mission. Throw aside the grudge between our two clans; we can help you and ensure your village isn't thrown into Ikam's lot. Guilt by association is a real phenomenon, after all." Shino half-heartedly attempted to explain. If he could avoid combat, he could check on the others and ensure they reached the barrier and by proxy his home safely.

"That's where you're wrong." Suzumebachi almost sadly answered. "I have no choice but to kill you. I'm not here as a Kamizuru today but as a Jounin of Iwa but as the woman Suzumebachi. I will kill you to ensure my own safety."

"Then nothing more needs to be said. The name is Shino Aburame. Let us repeat the mistakes of the past…" Shino responded morosely as both of them simultaneously began to weave hand signs.

X-X

Hinata's POV

They were all stunned momentarily as the giant mud wall settled between them. Cutting off both Lee and Shino from them. Within seconds of them being closed off, Hinata witnessed both soon joined by strangers.

"They've isolated and are now attacking Shino and Lee! We need to get to them!"

"No true concern we can burrow through using my clay manipulation," Mono assured, stalking toward the wall with Muuni in tow. However, Hinata flinched as several objects entered her field of vision from above. Mono also noticed stomping his feet and allowing clay to burst from the ground and create a roof over their head. Thunderous impacts hit it, causing the construct to shatter around them. Revealing large stingers falling around them.

The group raised their heads to the top of the wall. There, now hovering menacingly over them, was an absurdly large wasp. Its wings were the size of boulders, and its flaps in the air were deafening. The combined buzz of the group helped fill the air with their racket. Around it hovered dozens of human-sized wasps.

"I have no choice but to kill you all." The giant wasp spoke. "I am the Queen of the Wasp and, therefore, the clan's leader. For the safety and continued living of us all, we will slaughter you all. Fret not, however, for we will consume every part of you, nothing left to waste."

Mono, however, faced the Queen calmly. "We of the Okama have allied with the Wasp Clan for years. Surely, you are not so blatantly betraying our relationship. Allow us by, and I assure you we will see to your freedom. You have my word as an Okama."

"I cannot risk my hive on mere assurances. If I do not listen, it won't matter if we make an enemy of the Okama; we will perish if we don't. Children kill them." With the Queen's decree, the swarm of man-sized wasps surged forward.

Mono and Muuni prepared for combat as Sakura and Hinata stood protectively before them.

"Mono and Muuni, the two of you do something about this barrier! Sakura and I will deal with them!" Hinata decided as she began to fire off Shuriken and Kunai with lethal speed and precision. Sakura pitched in as well. The two women managed to pepper several with enough to slay them, though it was barely a dent in their numbers as they drew close.

"We cannot leave you!" Muuni cried out definitely.

"She's right!" Sakura chimed in, wounding a kunai in an explosive tag before throwing it into the heart of the swarm, wreaking a lethal tall of nearly a dozen wasps dead. "They're trying to stop us! They obviously don't want the barrier down. If you manage to do so, we can focus on surviving!"

Mono nodded grimly. The earth next to him bubbled as suddenly the ground was hallowed, and a clay tunnel appeared next to him. "Come Muuni, they are right. We cannot not afford for them to have access to the Chakra Anchor. We need to ensure they will be able to come to it once they are done here. I wish you luck, Hinata Hyuga and Sakura Haruno; you serve your home well." A protesting Muuni was herded by Mono into the tunnel as the two left the two women to face hoard alone.