To Love 'Ruto

by Drake Wilson

Naruto wished he could understand women. Between Risa's teasing, Yui's lecturing and his adopted mother's blatant disregard of the standards of a mother son relationship Naruto was struggling to stay sane. Now a pink haired alien has declared she will marry him and her sister is trying to create him a harem as her father sends assassins after him. What's a guy to do?

25. Chapter 25: This is Letting Go

To Love 'Ruto

A/N: Another chapter! This one finished off the party that happened in the last chapter. Next chapter will probably be the start of Rin's storyline (Which is also Saki's to a lesser extent). Then it will be Nana's chapter.

This chapter was originally the end of the NarutoXHarunaXRito love triangle but has had the ending tweaked to allow for a future story line that was added.

Thanks to my Beta Shinnagami as usual and feel free to leave a review.

Disclaimer: See previouis chapters

---

Chapter 25: This is Letting Go.

'The wind died, the whole ceased to move.
Now so quiet, her beating heart became a boom.
We locked eyes, for just a moment or two
She asked why, I said I don't know why, I just know.'

This is Letting Go – Rise Against

---

"Damn it!" Naruto (aged 13) groaned as he struggled to climb the tree. Of all the trees in the neighbourhood it would have to be the tallest one. Peering down Naruto felt his pulse quicken, he must have been at least twenty foot in the air but he couldn't stop now: He had a mission. Someone was depending on him!

He glanced to his left and saw his target, a pink kite with a cute dog pattern that was stuck in the branches near the top of the tree. Grunting with the effort, Naruto managed to clamber onto the thickest branch near the thin one that was currently holding the kite hostage and slowly edge his way along it, pausing as the branch started to groan under his weight.

"Almost… Got... It…" He slowly leaned away from the branch he was on, reaching out desperately for the kite that was stuck in its branches. "Got it!" His fingers wrapped around the kite but a sudden gust of wind blew it from his grasp. "No!" Naruto leapt off of the branch and grabbed the kite before falling to back to earth, hitting almost every branch on the way down which whilst painful, did save him from a worse fate as he finally hit the floor in a pile of broken branches and leaves and an unlucky girl who happened to be beneath the tree (although Naruto would have sworn that there was noone there when he last checked).

"Ouch…" Naruto rubbed his rear as he stood up, brushing away the worst of the dirt. "Are you okay miss?"

"I'm fine XD." The mint haired girl laughed. "I'd best be going! Good luck with that kite!" She ran away far quicker than Naruto thought humanly possible, especially considering Naruto had just fallen out of a tree onto her. He made a mental note to make ammends with the girl should he ever see her again.

"Eh?" Naruto blinked before spotting the kite and picking it up, grinning widely and laughing. "Hehehe!" He grinned as he turned his attention to the prize, to see if it had survived the fall in as good of a shape as Naruto had. "Oh no! It's torn!" He scowled as he raced home, the kite protectively clutched beneath his arm.

Passers-by watched him go with smiles on their faces. There wasn't anyone in the local area who didn't know about Naruto and his crush.

"Young love is so sweet," A pair of old woman chuckled to themselves as they watched Naruto sprint home.

"Mum I'm home!" Naruto yelled as she ran into their house. He paused before his father's shrine and bowed, "Hey Dad. I'm home."

"Naruto!" Kushina stepped out of the kitchen. "You are a mess! What happened to you? Did those kids pick another fight with you?" A dark aura surrounded Kushina and she pulled a bloody machete and a baseball bat covered in bloody nails out of nowhere. "Is Shina going to have to cut a bitch?!"

"No I'm fine mum," Naruto smiled. "I was getting Haruna-chan's kite out of a tree."

"…Oh…" Kushina calmed down slightly as she hid the weapons again. "Seriously? Why do you have to go and get yourself hurt for that girl? In a few more years…" She pulled a camcorder tape from her cleavage. "Hehehehe…" She went bright red. "I can't wait."

"Are you okay?" Naruto blinked.

"Soon…" Kushina smiled at him in a way that made his internal alarms scream at him.

"Er… Right…" He walked up to his bedroom and shook his head. "Mum's getting weirder as time goes by. Still I wonder what is on that video. She seems to keep it on her so it must be something really important." He rummaged from the drawers of his desk until he found a small sewing kit and set to work repairing the Kite. "I'll bet Haruna-chan will be super happy when I give her the kite back! She was so upset when it got stuck in that tree." He happily sewed away, wincing as he occasionally stabbed himself with the needle but after much cursing and the application of a fair few plasters the kite was almost as good as new. "I did it!" He grinned as she ran downstairs.

"You're leaving so soon?" Kushina sighed. "I was hoping we get to spend some time together… You hardly ever spent time at home and I am so lonely…" Kushina lounged on the couch.

"Sorry mum, maybe we can watch a film together when I come back? Maybe that tape that you keep on you at all times."

"W-what?" Kushina laughed weakly. "I don't know… "

"If it is important to mum it's important to me," Naruto declared.

"Hehehehehehehe…." Kushina laughed perversely as she passed out with a nose bleed.

"Er… Mum?" Naruto sighed. "I'll be back shortly." He locked the door behind him and set off towards Haruna's house, arriving at the door and anxiously trying to clean himself up before knocking on the door.

"I'd recognise that knock anywhere," The door opened and Haruna's big sister smirked at him. "What can I do for you Naruto-kun?"

"Hello Akiho-san," Naruto bowed his head. "I am here to see Haruna-san if possible."

"Aren't you just the cutest," Akiho ruffled his hair. "Haruna~ your little boyfriend is here to see you!"

"Nee-san!" Haruna's embarrassed voice cried out from the living room, shortly followed by the blushing Haruna. "I am sorry about her Uzumaki-kun."

"Don't worry about it," Naruto's wide grin hid his blush.

"What's a matter?" Haruna asked.

"Ah!" Naruto handed the kite to Sarenji. "I managed to get you your kite back!"

"Really!" Haruna beamed at him. "Thank you so much Uzumaki-kun."

"Oh it was nothing," Naruto laughed and rubbed the back of his head.

"Your hands…" Haruna blinked. "Did you hurt yourself?"

"Oh these?" He chuckled. "It's just a little cut that I got from something else."

"Oh really?" Akiho shook her head. "I notice that the kite has been repaired. I'm guessing you did it?"

"Er... Well I couldn't give it back broken could I?"

"You didn't have to do that for me." Haruna smiled.

"You're kidding right?" Naruto drew himself to his full height. "A hero doesn't half-ass his missions!"

"Yes," Haruna giggled. "You are my hero."

"If you ever need saving, just give me a yell and I'll be there in a flash!" Naruto declared.

"I wish I had a boyfriend as loyal as Naruto-kun here," Akiho sighed. "You are really lucky you know that?"

"Nee-chan!" Haruna blushed furiously.

"Why don't you stay?" Akiho turned to Naruto. "We were just having dinner."

"Oh I couldn't intrude," Naruto smiled.

"We have far too much food anyway," Akiho steered Naruto inside. "And Haruna doesn't mind do you?"

"Of course not!" Haruna smiled at him.

"W-well," Naruto laughed. "If you insist."

"We insist." Akiho shook her head. "Besides, I'm hoping I'll see you around here more."

"Eh?" Naruto blinked.

"Haruna-chan doesn't have many friends but I'm glad she's found you." Akiho laughed as Naruto sat at the table where a hearty amount of food was set.

"Wow…" Naruto blinked. "That smells delicious!"

"Haruna-chan really did a good job right?"

"You made this?" Naruto looked at Haruna, "Wow that's amazing! I'll bet it tastes great!"

"W-well," Haruna blushed.

"Well don't just sit there! Tuck in!" Akiho laughed as she split her chopsticks.

"Right!" Naruto beamed as he started to eat. "W-wow. You are an excellent cook!"

"T-thanks."

'Getting to eat Haruna-chan's homemade food! I could die of happiness!' As far as he knew, he could not have been happier.

---

Naruto leaned against the wall, staring into space blankly. Haruna's shock confession still ringing in his ears. A few months ago hearing that would have made him the happiest guy around. Now though it only caused an old would to resurface. He waited to hear Rito's response but after a few minutes of uneasy silence he decided it was wrong to eavesdrop and walked towards the table, acting as if he hadn't just heard Haruna's revelation.

Haruna had her hands over her mouth with a look of horror in her eyes and Rito was staring into space with dull, lifeless eyes.

"Hey what's a matter with you two?"

"N-Naruto?" Haruna gasped.

"Naruto?" Naruto blinked. "You never call me that? Are you alright?"

"I… I need the bathroom," Rito mumbled as he suddenly got up and ran from the table.

"I er…" She glanced after Rito. "I need… I…" She shook her head.

"What is it?" Naruto sat down.

"Don't!" Haruna looked on the verge of tears. "Don't talk to me! I might say something we'll both regret!"

"Why?"

"I… I can't stop myself from revealing my deepest secrets," Haruna whispered.

"You seem fine."

"Please… I should go home," Haruna stood up.

"Haruna," Naruto grabbed her arm. "You don't have to face this alone you know? I am always here for you. Remember?" He grinned. "I promised."

"But you aren't are you? Ever since Lala showed up you haven't spent any time with me. We used to be inseparable but now… I wish Lala had never shown up!" She covered her mouth a look of horror on her face.

"Haruna…" Naruto blinked. "I never…"

"I have to go!" Haruna set off running, tears in her eyes.

"…Damn." Naruto put his head in his hands. "Have I... Have I messed up somewhere?"

"Well you look thoroughly miserable."

"…Psycho maid," Naruto looked up at the smug looking maid. "You really get a kick out of my misery huh?"

"You are the one who decided to have a harem," Hanabi stated calmly. "You are the one who has to deal with the consequences of that choice."

"…I guess you are right." Naruto leaned on the table. "But I don't have a harem."

"Would you care for a drink?" Hanabi offered him a small cup.

"Is it poisoned?"

"You will not die from drinking it."

"Sure then," Naruto took the cup and took a mouthful. "Huh, this is kind of fruity. What is it?"

"Your downfall!" Hanabi laughed. "What are your thoughts on Saki-sama?!"

"Saki? She's kind of cute but I don't really know her that well why?" Naruto frowned.

"Er… What?" Hanabi took his drink and drank a bit. "I want Saki-sama to spank me then use me for her own sexual gratification." She covered her mouth and glared at Naruto.

"Er… That's…" Naruto blushed and looked away. "I'm not sure what you want me to do about that."

"The truth potion!" Hanabi hissed. "Why didn't it work on you?! It worked on the Sarenji girl."

"Oh!" Naruto's eyes widened. "So that's why she said that. She was under the effects of a truth potion?" He frowned. "Then… Haruna genuinely hates Lala?!"

"Her exact words were that she wished Lala had never shown up," Hanabi countered. "She probably meant that she wishes nothing had come between her and you not that she doesn't like Lala… Damn it the potion is forcing me to say what I think even if that comforts you!"

"Why do you hate me so much?" Naruto smirked.

"Because I am scared that Saki-sama will abandon me because she likes you." Hanabi death glared Naruto.

"You… You really care for Saki huh?"

"She is my world and that is Saki-sama to you!" Hanabi growled.

"Right, right," Naruto waved off her concerns. "Still this drink is dangerous. Is there anymore?"

"It's in the kitchen in a sports bottle that Momo prepared for you." Hanabi blinked. "Damn it all to hell!"

"Momo?" Naruto sighed. "I should have figured she'd have something to do with this. Where is the kitchen?"

"If you leave through the door to the right and carry on down the corridor you can't miss it." Hanabi blinked. "WHY WON'T THIS THING WEAR OFF?!"

"Well I'd best dispose of the drink then," Naruto sighed. "It's caused enough trouble for one day. Thanks. You are kind of cute when you are helpful rather than a hindrance."

"I have had several fantasies involving you and me working together to bring Saki-sama to climax."

"…I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that for both of our sakes."

Hanabi just glared at him as he quickly made his way towards the kitchen.

As he entered, Naruto found himself stunned at the sheer size of the room. It was almost the size of the ballroom itself, full of chefs racing around preparing meals.

"H-who are h-you?" A plump chef with a curly moustache bobbed towards him, somehow managed to pronounce certain words as if they started with an h.

"Er… Naruto," Naruto blinked. "I'm looking for a small red bottle of sports drink?"

"H-Why h-would I have something like that in my kitchens?"

"I was told by Hanabi that…"

"Oh I see…" The chef narrowed his eyes. "Yugito!"

"Yes chef?" A woman with long blonde hair tied up in a long ponytail that travelled down to her waist walked up to them wearing a maid's outfit. She had two blue cat ears poking through her hair and a blue tail lazily swung behind her.

"I recognise you!" Naruto blinked. "You are that assassin that attacked Saki at her beach house!"

"That's Saki-sama to you," The entire kitchen paused to yell at him before resuming its work.

"Wow… Saki sure inspires loyalty in her staff," Naruto chuckled.

"Of course she does," Yugito nodded. "I used to think that my old master Orochimaru was a kind man for granting me this power. But I know see he was only using me. Saki-sama is truly kind… She forgave my attack on her life and gave me a job and a life."

"Really?" Naruto smiled. "Well… I'm glad that you have turned your life around. Wait did you say Orochimaru?!"

"You know of him?"

"I've heard about him," Naruto narrowed his eyes. 'Mikado warned me that Manda had a brother called Orochimaru and that Kimimaro guy also said he served an Orochimaru. Could they all be the same person?'

"He is a genius when it comes to genetic modifications." Yugito frowned. "He takes in children who have been abandoned and experiments on them but that is a very expensive process and he was planning to ransom and experiment on Saki-sama…" Yugito bowed her head. "It fills me with disgust to know what fate I almost brought upon milady."

"That bastard," Naruto scowled. "I think I need to have a few words with him." Naruto cracked his knuckles.

"The others are all fiercely loyal to him." Yugito continued. "As they see it he gave them all a family and a chance to make a difference. If you plan to fight him be aware you will have to fight them all."

"Not that this isn't interesting but h-when are you planning to leave my kitchen?!" The chef yelled.

"Oh right," Naruto laughed weakly. "So that energy drink?"

"Saki-sama was thirsty and that was the only drink I had to hand." Yugito replied simply. "She was in a hurry because she was about to give a speech to the students gathered in the ballroom."

"…You have got to be kidding me!" Naruto raced out of the kitchen and back towards the ballroom. "Damn it…" He noticed Saki walking up to the stage with the sports bottle. "I hope she hasn't taken a drink of that."

"Naruto!" A small green haired girl hugged him from behind. "It's been so long!"

"Tch," The male students groaned. "He even knows Run-chan?! That bastard!"

"Oh hi…" Naruto smiled uneasily. "How are you Ren?"

"It's Run!" Ran pouted. "Ren isn't here right now."

"Right…" Naruto smiled. "Look I'd love to talk but I need to stop Saki from drinking that energy drink. It's a powerful truth potion."

"Muu…" Run pouted. "You know I had to take a break from my busy schedule just for the chance to see you again? It's almost as if you trying to avoid me."

"Well…" Naruto focused on Saki. "Could you pass me a cup?"

"Of course!" Run passed him a cup.

"Kawarimi," Naruto whispered as the cup in his hand and the red sports bottle swapped places.

"Oh my?" Saki blinked as she noticed. "Well that was odd."

"Mission successful!" Naruto smirked as he checked the sports bottle. "…It's empty!"

"Hello everybody!" Saki beamed as everyone in the ballroom turned to look at her.

"Oh no no no!" Naruto grit his teeth.

"I hope you are all enjoying the party!" She smiled beautifully. "And can we have a loud round of applause for our special guests, Magical Girl Kyouko and Run-chan!"

The crowd cheered.

"Oh that's my cue!" Run laughed. "I am supposed to be performing my new song! You'll listen to it won't you?" She looked at Naruto.

"Er… Sure." Naruto nodded and watched Run race to the stage. 'Well Saki seems fine. Maybe the effect wore off before she did the speech. Best check on her to make sure.' He paused before slyly creating a clone.

"Sup boss man?" Akuma blinked as he formed.

"I need you to take my place and watch this show of Run's whilst I check on Saki."

"You got it!" Akuma saluted and turned his attention to the show as Naruto snuck through the crowd and through the door that Saki had left via. He followed the corridor until he came to a room that was slightly ajar.

"Saki?" Naruto coughed and knocked on the door.

"Uzumaki-kun?" Saki opened the door dressed in only a loosely fitting dressing gown and carrying a small collapsible fan with the Tenjouin crest on it.

"Ah sorry," Naruto span around.

"You can look you know?" Saki chuckled as she fanned herself. "Is something the matter?"

"That drink… Did you…"

"Oh that was you," Saki smiled. "I wondered why my drink magically changed. Don't worry about it, Hanabi-chan warned me about the effects of that drink."

"Oh thank the gods." Naruto let out a sigh. "I was worried you'd reveal your darkest secrets to the world."

"You were worried for me?" Saki seemed taken aback. "You do remember that I kidnapped you and my maid is responsible for more than a little of trouble you have been in."

"Trust me," Naruto sighed, "Compared to the trouble I get myself into your maid is a welcome distraction."

"I see," Saki smiled gently. "You really do have a big heart don't you?" She walked into her room, "Please enter. I was just having a video call."

"Er… Sure." Naruto stepped inside the room.

"Hello!" A familiar face was on the screen of Saki's laptop.

"Hey I remember you from the ball that time. You are Saki's dad right?"

"That's right!" The man on screen laughed heartily. "So is this the one?"

"This is the one I told you about, yes." Saki nodded.

"Hey Saki," Naruto leaned closer to her so that her father couldn't hear him or read his lips, "Is this going to be one of those scenarios where I have to pretend to be your boyfriend in order to stop you getting married?"

"If I said yes would you play along?"

"Of course," Naruto nodded. "No one deserves to get forced into a marriage."

"What are you two talking about?"

"Oh nothing major papa." Saki smiled. "Naruto-san was offering to pretend to be my boyfriend if you were trying to force me into an arranged marriage."

"Ahahaha!" Her father laughed boisterously. "As if I could force you to do anything."

"Oh…" Naruto laughed weakly.

"No Saki-chan was just telling me about you and Rin-chan have a similar power! It's a small world isn't it?"

"It seems that way." Naruto agreed.

"Ahahaha! Still… What do you think of my daughter?"

"Papa." Saki sighed.

"Well I think that she is a beautiful woman and although I still have some reservations as she has kidnapped me before I think she is a good person and would one day like to add her to my…" Naruto bit his lip.

"Add her to your what?"

"Circle of friends," Naruto forced out. 'What the hell?! I almost said harem! But I don't even have a harem! That potion must be slower acting on me because I am half-devilukean! Also it must be messing with my head because I most certainly do not have a harem. Asmodea, Raph… Can you do anything about it?"

'Nope. And even if I could this has the potential for hilarity so I wouldn't anyway.'

'I could possibly remove the effects of the toxin but Asma—chan has got me tied up.'

'Before you get the wrong idea it isn't sexual… yet.'

'Useful as always.' Naruto mentally sighed and tuned out Asmodea's evil giggling.

"I see," Her father nodded sagely. "Could you see yourself marrying her?"

"Papa!"

"Definitely." Naruto responded before he could stop himself.

"N-Naruto?!" Saki's eyes seemed to widen. "Did you by any chance drink some of that energy drink?"

"Hanabi got me to drink some." Naruto replied.

"I see," Saki smiled at her father. "I am afraid that Naruto has been poisoned by a powerful truth serum so it wouldn't be fair to question him right now."

"Really?!" There was an evil glint in her father's eyes. "Have you ever masturbated to the image of my daughter?!"

"I respect her too much to use her image in that way. Also I haven't masturbated in several months." Naruto clamped his hands over his mouth.

"N-Naruto…" Saki smiled. "I… Thank you."

"Hm," Her father nodded approvingly. "Several months without relieving yourself. That's somewhat impressive from what I heard about you."

"I don't need to relieve myself I have others who… can provide me with alternate means of release such as physical exercise." Naruto scowled. 'Seems I can twist what I say so long as I don't outright lie."

"Ah I see. A good jog to clear the mind."

"Now Papa I really must be going," Saki ended the call. "Say Naruto…"

"Yes?"

"Did you really mean that?" Saki looked at him. "That you could see yourself marrying me?"

"Well…" Naruto struggled against the truth serum. "I… There was talk in my family of you being invited to join it as I have no idea how to run a business despite having access to the Momioka and Namikaze resources so I have thought about it but turned the idea down."

"Oh?" Saki raised an eyebrow. "Well that's to be expected I suppose." Her smile seemed a little more brittle to Naruto. "Just an idle curiosity on my part." Saki turned away with a sigh. "I should let you get back to your evening. It was… nice to talk to you in private. I need some time to get changed for my next act and I'd bet you don't want to see me naked." She winked playfully at him.

"I would love to see a woman as beautiful as you naked." Naruto covered his mouth and looked apologetic.

"But you don't want to marry me?" Saki shook her head. "How improper." She chuckled softly to herself.

"I never said I didn't want to. I just felt it wasn't fair to you to try and convince you to love me for the sake of business. Should we fall in love I would want it to be a natural thing. I don't believe that you know me well enough to have any genuine feelings for me."

"…Really?" Saki smiled softly. "Mr Hero?"

"That sounds familiar."

"Allow me to refresh your memory… A dark warehouse, armed Yakuza and one little boy playing hero."

"Ah!" Naruto blinked. "That was your kidnapping right?"

"I never did repay you did I?" Saki stated.

"I don't need payment for saving someone."

"Well I can't force you to accept it," Saki held out her hand, "But I would love for us to get to spend more time together and get to know each other a little better."

"Eh?" Naruto shook her hand. "Why?"

"Controlling the Namikaze and Momioka businesses as well as my own? It sounds too good to be true." Saki smiled. "Plus Rin-chan really likes you so she will enjoy spending more time with you. Last but certainly not least…" Saki smiled at him in a way strangely reminiscent of Lala. "I think I could grow to care about you a great deal. So I'll hang around with you. If it leads to marriage and children then… well we'll see won't we." Saki winked seductively. "But tell Lala… I don't intend to give up the top spot without a fight."

"Saki?" Naruto blinked. "You do realise that I already have several lovers?"

"The fact that you are able to keep several lovers is a promising sign. Either you are truly loving or ridiculously good in bed." Saki laughed pleasantly. "Now if you excuse me… my public awaits!"

"R-right." Naruto shook his head. "I guess I'll see you around."

"I certainly hope so!"

---

"I wonder where Naruto is." Lala frowned as they sat back at the table.

"Maybe he was moved by my concert and had to go backstage for an illicit rendezvous?!" Run gasped. "I shouldn't keep him waiting!"

"Keep who waiting?" Naruto asked as he approached the table.

"Ah~ Naruto! Did you enjoy my song?"

"It was good yeah," Naruto nodded, grateful that Akuma had dispelled and given him all of the memories from the performance. "You looked cute in that dress."

"Hehehe!" Run gave the victory sign to Lala who merely stuck her tongue out childishly.

"Did you find what was responsible for those students?" Mikado asked.

"Yeah it was the First Holy Knight," Naruto admitted.

"The first holy knight? Are you sure."

"He is! XD"

"…Fu." Naruto looked up as Fu and an extremely displeased looking Shukaku who was wearing a cloak to conceal her body, walked up to them. "Shukaku."

"My eternal master," Shukaku bowed her head. "I apologise for the disgraceful state I am in."

"Eternal master?" Nana and Momo shared a glance.

"Er… You look fine to me." Naruto blinked.

"But my markings of devotion are obscured by this… this... heresy!" Shukaku scowled as she moved to discard the cloak but was stopped by Fu.

"Wait a minute," Momo cut in, "Since when have you been friendly with the First Knight?!"

"He is the Eternal master of all, Lord Behemoth." Shukaku kneeled down next to the table. "The one true god and rightful ruler of all."

"Well he certainly has me calling his name in prayer." Risa remarked.

"R-Risa!" Yui went crimson.

"Well this was fun but Fu-chan has to escort Shukaku-chan to her home! See you around ;)"

"Okay..." Naruto nodded.

Shukaku glared at the gathered girls.

"Shu-chan~" Fu tugged on her arm.

"… Unworthy," She remarked bluntly causing the assembled girls to flinch.

"W-what?" Lala blinked.

"Oh she's just in a bad mood XD," Fu tugged more forcefully on Shukaku's arm and the two holy knights left.

"Well she's a bitch," Risa remarked bluntly.

"The First Knight of Gid's Holy Order." Mikado shook her head. "Truly a scary person. They say she made an entire planet red with the blood of its inhabitants."

"Lost Paradiso." Lala nodded, "One of the last battles of the Civil war."

"Civil war?" Yui blinked.

"Where my papa and Naruto's mama fought each other." Lala shrugged. "Papa won but couldn't bring himself to kill Kurama since he said she was holding back and nothing made sense."

"Hm…" Naruto closed his eyes recalling the tape on board his mother's spaceship, 'If I remember right mum turned traitor to make all those who were planning to hurt Gid and Sephie reveal themselves and ally with her. I wonder how many people died just so mum could be sure Gid would be safe.'

"The Ninth knight versus the Emperor of the Galaxy," Mikado shivered. "Those were dark days. The galaxy had just come out of a long civil war only to plunge into another."

"Space is scary," Yui frowned.

"Don't worry," Naruto hugged her to his side "I'll protect you, I'll protect all of you," He turned to the other girls.

"Kyaah!" Run-chan squealed. "I love you too!"

"Oh…" Naruto blinked as Run attached herself to his free side. 'I'd forgotten that Ren/Run was there. Oh well.' He patted her on the head.

"I didn't know you knew Naru," Kyouko tried to pry the idol from Naruto.

"You two know each other?" Naruto blinked.

"That's right!" Run made the peace sign, "Kyouko-chan and I have worked on a few projects together! I would have never guessed that your Naru-kun was my NarNar!"

"NarNar," Naruto twitched.

"Isn't it just the cutest nickname?" Run squealed. "And you can call me RuRu and our first child will be called Toriko so then he can be ToTo!"

"…What?"

"So our nicknames together make Naruto twice!" Run hugged his arm. "Isn't it sweet?"

"It's certainly something," Naruto laughed awkwardly.

"So…" Kyouko earned herself a metaphorical medal from Naruto when she finally managed to pry Run from his arm. "When did you two meet?"

"Oh I remember it as if it was yesterday!" Run sighed happily. "He saved me and a little puppy from a scary ghost! Just thinking about it gives me the shivers. Hold me NarNar!" She dived at Naruto only to get intercepted by Lala.

"Muu…" Lala stood between the two. "Leave Naruto alone!"

"Make me!" Run narrowed her eyes.

"A ghost…Oh right…When Ren and I were looking around the old school building." Naruto nodded, "But it wasn't a ghost…" Naruto went slightly pale. "Because ghosts aren't real. No way. It's impossible…" He broke out in a cold sweat. "It was a trick of the light!"

"Of course there are!" Lala clapped her hands. "There are plenty of recorded instances of ghosts being sighted throughout the galaxy."

"W-w-w-what?" Naruto gulped. "B-But not here on Earth r-right?"

"Have we just discovered Naruto's weakness?" Mikado smiled.

"Don't worry!" Lala declared. "I'll protect you from the ghosts!"

"I'm n-not scared of any ghosts!" Naruto's pride forced him to stand up.

"Well that is good news!" Saki's voice called out.

"Saki?!" Naruto span around to see the aforementioned, flanked by Rin, Aya and Hanabi.

"That's Saki-sama to you," Hanabi retorted.

"There, there," Saki smiled at Hanabi who blushed slightly and looked away, "There is no need for titles amongst friends right Naruto?"

"Right," Naruto nodded, grateful for the change in topic. "Suffixes make me feel old."

"Is that so…" Rin looked thoughtful. "Naruto…"

"Yes?"

"Naruto…"

"Are you okay Rin-chan?"

"I am fine," Rin looked away. 'S-saying his name in such a familiar fashion… It feels… right.'

"Anyway," Saki hid her smile behind a small collapsible fan, "I am glad you are not scared of ghosts."

"…Why?" Naruto was already dreading asking.

"Well papa had received a request to investigate a ghost sighting at our school in the abandoned school building." Saki smiled. "Usually Rin-chan, Hanabi and I would go alone, giving her powerful spiritual abilities and Hanabi-chan's… enthusiasm for my defence. This time however the rumours have me worried. I was just telling Papa how your powers were similar and he agreed that it would be wise for you to accompany here."

"…S-s-sure," Naruto went pale and started sweating. "I c-c-can't let y-you f-f-face d-d-dangerous g-g-g-ghosts…"

"…Are you alright?" Saki raised an eyebrow.

"Just fine," Naruto shivered. "I'm just a little sad that I will miss the end of the party."

"Don't worry about that." Saki smiled. "We will have a personal party to celebrate a successful mission! I'll leave the arrangements to you Aya-chan."

"Of course Saki-sama," Aya adjusted her glasses. "I'll get right on it!" She made a beeline towards the kitchens.

"See, you don't have to worry about missing the party!" Saki snapped her fan shut.

"T-that's a relief," Naruto managed to force a smile.

"The time is 9:00 pm," Rin stepped forwards. "Apparently the ghost activity starts in 30 minutes. If we leave now we should arrive at the school with ten minutes to get prepared."

"Ooh a ghost hunt!" Lala's eyes sparkled. "I have loads of gadgets that will be of use!"

"G-ghost hunting?!" Run went paler than Naruto, "Ahaha… I have a meeting with my producer in the morning… Let me know how it goes!"

"Sounds interesting," Mikado smiled. "Maybe I should tag along."

"Nope!" Kushina put her hands in a cross shape. "I'm not going."

"Really?" Mikado glanced at Kushina.

"Do you know how awkward it would be if I ran into Minato's ghost?!" Kushina shivered. "Hey where's our daughter? Er… I don't know. Are you looking after my son? Oh yes… I definitely am…Kushina why are you giggling perversely?" She shook her head. "Why didn't you do that think with your tongue to me? I don't know. Maybe because I have actually had sex with Naruto whereas I think the closest we ever got was a drunk make out session but then you burst into tears because you were 'cheating on Kurama' and then I realised you weren't Naruto and was violently sick. Yes that's right I was lying about it being morning sickness." Kushina paused. "And whilst we are at it Minato don't think I…"

"Okay we get it!" Naruto sighed.

"What tongue thing?" Lala blinked.

"There's this thing where I…"

"There's a time and place." Naruto cut her off.

"What is she talking about?" Nana frowned.

"She means…" Momo whispered something into Nana's ear.

"W-w-w-w-w-what?!" Nana went bright red, steam shooting out of her ears. "T-t-t-t-that…" She passed out.

"Looks like I'm out," Momo smirked. "Someone has to look after Nana."

"I'll go back with Momo-san," Mikan smiled. "Ghosts aren't really my idea of a fun time, plus I think Rito has gone home and I want to check on him."

"Well…" Yui frowned. "Someone has to make sure that you don't get up to something shameless in the school!"

"Yui isn't scared of ghosts?" Naruto blinked.

"Ghosts aren't real," She said dismissively.

"R-right!" Naruto beamed at her. "And Yui-chan is smart so she knows what she is talking about!"

"Hey!" Lala pouted. "I'm smart too!"

"Yeah but you're galactic smart, Yui-chan is Earth-smart and since we are on Earth and this is an earthly matter Yui-chan's opinion counts for more!" Naruto grasped at straws.

"Muu…" Lala crossed her arms. "Naruto is a big bully."

"Eh?"

"No force on Earth can split up the terrible twosome!" Kyouko gave Naruto a thumbs up. "I got your back partner. I'll burn away any ghosts!" She conjured a small ball of flame on her finger.

"Kyo-chan!" Naruto beamed at her.

"Meh," Risa shrugged. "I've no interest in this. Plus I'm kind of sleepy after eating all of that food." She rubbed her stomach. "Excellent food by the way." She nodded to Saki.

"I shall pass your compliments onto my catering staff," Saki smiled.

"So the team consists of myself, Saki-sama, Hanabi-san, Naruto…" Rin paused slightly savouring the sound of his name without any suffixes, "Kotegawa-san, Lala-san, Kyouko-chan and Mikado-san?"

"Go team ghostbusters!" Lala declared.

"I'll have your father drop off some uniforms at the school for us to get changed into." Saki glanced at Rin who nodded.

"Uniforms?" Naruto blinked.

"Oh I think you'll like them!" Saki beamed.

---

"Yup," Naruto nodded. "You were right. I do like them." The girls were all dressed up in shrine maiden's outfits, although the skirts were quiet short. The only exceptions were Mikado who was wearing her usual lab coat and Hanabi who was dressed up in military fatigues with an assault rifle slung over her shoulder and a SMG held firmly in her hands.

"Hehe," Lala twirled around. "I like these! Can we keep them?"

"Of course," Saki smiled. "Consider it payment for helping."

"Yatta!" Lala cheered.

"Why is the skirt so short?!" Yui blushed as she tried to stretch the skirt down.

"Is there a problem Kotegawa-san?" Rin asked.

"It's so… shameless! You can see my underwear if I twirl around!"

"The reduced length of the skirt prevents the fabric getting caught whilst still allowing enough movement to prevent being a hindrance." Rin shrugged. "I never really thought about the underwear issue as I usually only carry out these mission with Saki-sama and Hanabi-san. Sometimes Aya would accompany us as well although that is a rarity."

"They were designed by an expert in the powers that Rin-chan has. He even gave us a reduced price saying it was an honour to supply the next holder of Purity," Saki smiled. "The reason I wanted everyone to wear them is because I thought Naruto would like to see you all wearing them."

"…Guilty," Naruto admitted. 'And why do I have a bad feeling I know which Arcangus expert was responsible for the costume… I don't know whether to thank you or hit you Jiraiya…'

"W-well…" Yui fidgeted. "I guess… If it's Naruto…" She blushed slightly, "I'm not wearing it because I want to though!"

"Just admit you like it when Naruto looks at you like that," Lala crossed her arms.

"I?! Well… I… Don't dislike it."

"Close enough," Lala sighed.

"Well what girl doesn't like to look good for the guy she likes?" Kyouko grinned as she posed. "What do you think Naru?"

"You look great," Naruto admitted.

"Hehe!" She fist pumped. "Man I am all fired up to hunt some ghosts!"

"Ahahaha…" Naruto laughed weakly, "You haven't changed at all have you?"

"I'd like to think I have," She pushed her cleavage together with her arms. "Don't you think I look more mature?"

"I guess," Naruto admitted. "But you always did love hunting ghosts back when we were kids."

"True… But then again you would always be there, determined to face your fears!" Kyouko nodded. "Ah fun times."

"Oh Naruto and Kyouko-chan used to go ghost hunting together?" Lala tilted her head.

"Of course!" Kyouko smirked. "We were the terrible twosome! There wasn't a mystery that we didn't investigate like the legend of the haunted bathroom stall!"

"Where you stood yelling the name of the ghost for half an hour to make sure that she wasn't going to show up," Naruto grumbled. "It was midnight and the police showed up and thought I was trying to attack you or something. Some people see the blonde hair and instantly assume I'm a delinquent."

"Or the mystery of the haunted ice cream van!"

"Which was just a cat that had gotten itself trapped inside an abandoned ice cream van." Naruto added. "Which I found out after I got stuck in the van. Then you jumped in after me and we had to keep yelling until Kushina finally hunted us down. Apparently the ice cream van was interfering with the signal from the tracking chip in my clothing."

"Tracking chip?" Saki blinked.

"Long story short, Kushina was paranoid I would leave her one day and as such she decided to put a tracker in all my clothing so she could find me."

"Yes we were inseparable!" Kyouko sighed fondly. "That's why we made a promise to be partners forever!" She blushed slightly.

"Yeah," Naruto nodded. "I remember that. To be the Terrible Twosome forever right?"

"R-right," Kyouko beamed at him.

"…He doesn't realise what she means does he?" Mikado shook her head.

"Apparently not," Yui agreed.

"… Well at least he is cute and skilled with a sword even if he is not all there in the mental department." Rin admitted begrudgingly.

"He's a brainless pervert," Hanabi stated bluntly.

"But he comes from an incredibly wealthy family so that technically makes him eccentric," Saki chuckled.

"He has a good heart!" Lala defended her fiancé.

"We'll agree to disagree on that," Hanabi retorted bluntly.

"Now, now," Saki chastised Hanabi softly, "Naruto hasn't done anything to deserve your scorn Hanabi-chan."

"…My apologies milady."

"Ah!" Kyouko took a deep breath. "Can you smell that?"

"The smell of an abandoned building? Smells like urine and moth balls to be honest." Naruto covered his nose.

"Fool!" Kyouko sighed and shook her head. "That is the smell of adventure!"

"…I've been on adventures in space and I can tell you they didn't smell this bad. Although Manda's ship did have a strange chemical smell to it."

"Come on!" Kyouko started to drag Naruto away.

"Hold one moment," Saki cleared her throat. "As we have two people with the power to fight ghosts I suggest we split into two teams. Each team will need one… Arcangus user?" She looked at Naruto who nodded. "Right, One Arcangus user and one scientist. So Naruto and Rin-chan will be on separate teams as will Mikado and Lala, as our resident scientists."

"If it suits you I will go with you," Mikado smiled at Saki.

"That means we are together!" Lala cheered as she hugged Naruto.

"What about the others?" Naruto asked.

"Well… I shall accompany Rin-chan," Saki smiled. "As will Hanabi-chan."

"So that means Kyouko and I should go with Naruto?" Yui clarified.

"Indeed," Saki tapped her ear. "Is everyone wearing their earpieces and microphones?"

"Check," Naruto adjusted the microphone on the collar of his open jacket.

"Right… I'm getting a reading on everyone's positions…" Mikado glanced at a tablet in her hands. "How about you Lala?"

"Yeah!" Lala beamed. "This is like a hi-tech spying film!"

"I'm glad you are enjoying yourself," Naruto smiled. 'Because I know for a fact I'm not going to.'

"Well then…" Saki pointed at the building. "Let's do this!"

"Roger!" Lala saluted Saki and raced off into the building.

"Come on Naru! Let's find that ghost!" Kyouko grabbed his arm and dragged him towards the school.

"H-Hey! Wait for me!" Yui raced after the first group.

"May I ask you a question?" Mikado glanced at her group.

"Of course," Saki smiled behind her fan.

"Why did you invite Naruto?"

"To be honest?" Saki smiled. "I don't know. Rin-chan should have little difficulty dealing with this issue but… I guess I just feel better knowing Naruto is around as well. Part of me has a bad feeling about this one and I am more worried than usual."

"I would never let any harm befall you." Hanabi promised. "Naruto is not needed for you safety."

"It isn't my safety I am concerned about," Saki turned to her two servants/ friends. "It's yours."

"Saki-sama?" Rin and Hanabi bowed their heads.

"You would both throw yourself on a grenade to protect me and never hesitate, your own safety never crossing your minds once." Saki paused.

"And so would Naruto," Mikado pointed out. "If he sees anyone in need he will do whatever it takes to protect them."

"But… But Naruto has this aura of invulnerability. When you look at him and the attacks he has shrugged off you wonder if he actually can be killed. Despite all his power he still seems a… relatively good person." Saki stared off into the distance. "I feel… I feel like I can trust in his strength not only to protect everyone but to do it and survive himself."

"Relatively good?" Mikado tilted her head.

"There is the harem business." Saki frowned softly. "I… I don't know what to make of that."

"Do you want to know something interesting?" Mikado smiled.

"What would that be?"

"Naruto has only really picked one member of the harem," Mikado smiled. "And that was Kotegawa-chan and even then he only did that with severe urging from Lala-chan."

"I don't understand."

"Naruto isn't the one who wanted the harem," She sighed happily, "All he wants to do is protect those he holds dear. Yet that kind of single minded devotion has attracted him quite the following. Don't go thinking that his harem is forced to do his bidding. We all do what we please. He himself doesn't like to see us as a harem, he sees us as his family. Maybe he has a thing for incest." She joked, "But personally I think it's a declaration of how much we mean to him and the lengths he will go to protect us."

"We?!" Saki's eyes widened. "Mikado-sensei… Are you saying you are in his harem?"

"Something like that," Mikado laughed gently. "What can I say? When the idiot declares war on one of the galaxy's worst alien crime lords in order to protect you… It's kind of a romantic gesture you can't ignore."

"I see," Saki chuckled. "I'll admit… being saved by him does make the heart flutter a little."

"Saki-sama," Hanabi cut in. "I believe we should focus on the mission."

"Right," Rin nodded. "I can't let Naruto beat me in finding the ghost."

"Oh?"

"Er…" Rin blushed slightly. "When we sparred as children we always used to compete. I guess the idea of Naruto beating me still makes me want to win." She coughed embarrassed. "That was unprofessional of me. I shouldn't care who defeats the ghost so long as it is defeated."

"So it's a competition huh?" Saki smirked. "Hello Team B?"

"Team B?" Kyouko answered over the comms. "We are like Team Awesome over here!"

"How do you feel about a wager?"

"Wager?" Naruto's voice sounded interested. "What about?"

"First to defeat the ghost," Saki smiled. "Should you win…? You get a free request from me. Anything you want of me you can ask and I will deliver but your entire team only gets one request."

"Anything?!" Hanabi blinked in horror.

"…Seriously?" Naruto asked.

"Seriously." Saki nodded.

"And if you win?" Naruto asked.

"I get to ask any favour of you." Saki smirked.

"Of me?" Naruto sounded confused. "Er… Sure I guess."

"We can't lose!" Lala declared.

"The quicker we get out of here the better." Yui's voice sounded worried. "I have a bad feeling."

"Argh!" Naruto yelled out.

"Naruto?!" Rin froze.

"Hahahahahaha!" Kyouko's laugh echoed through the comms. "Don't worry he's fine. Just a little jumpy."

---

"We can't lose!" Lala punched the air dramatically as they walked towards the basement of the school, currently walking through a hallway on the ground floor where abandoned classrooms full of dusty books lined the way.

"The quicker we get out of here the better." Yui shivered slightly as she walked past a classroom where the blackboard has the message GET OUT! Scrawled on it in what she hoped was some sort of red paint.

Naruto opened his mouth to comment when he felt an icy sensation travel down his spine. "Argh?!" He span around, a ball of Arcangus energy formed in his palm, desperately scanning the hallway for the source, only to blink as another drop of icy water hit him on the shoulder. "Oh…" He mumbled quietly.

"Naruto?!" Rin's voice was crackling over the comms.

Kyouko was shaking trying to contain her laughter until she couldn't anymore. "Hahahahahaha! Don't worry he's fine. Just a little jumpy."

"Try to be quieter," Saki's voice sounded amused over the static. "We don't want you to scare the ghost away."

"S-sorry," Naruto frowned. 'I could have sworn it felt like some tapped me on the back though. Maybe I am a little jumpy…" He continued walking down the corridor, oblivious to the ghostly girl who slowly floated back up through the floorboard.

'Oh no! I instinctively hid!' Oshizu cursed to herself. 'And waiting so long for the chance to meet the blonde haired hero who saved me from that dog! Come on… I can't give up!' The ghost girl slapped her face and continued to stalk team B.

"Still as jumpy as ever huh?" Kyouko chuckled. "Come to think of it didn't you once get yourself stuck in a ghost house?"

"Yeah," Naruto frowned. "Risa tricked me and Haruna into going into one."

"I remember that Haruna," Kyouko frowned softly. "She's the girl you ran off to play with on a fair few of my visits right?"

"I invited you to join us," Naruto reminded her. "But you always said you didn't want to play with her."

"I was only interested in playing with you," Kyouko admitted. 'Plus with how you talked about her I was always scared if I saw you two together that you'd be acting like a couple and I don't think I could have taken that.'

"Shame, you'd have liked her," Naruto continued.

"From what your mother said you were joined at the hip."

"Mother?"

"Kushina-san I mean."

"Oh right," Naruto nodded. "Yeah we used to be. I guess we've just drifted apart."

"Really?" Kyouko chuckled. "She not a fan of the harem lifestyle?"

"I don't have a harem." Naruto replied automatically.

"He doesn't have a harem!" Yui responded at the same time.

"Oh that was so cute!" Kyouko laughed.

"W-what?" Yui blushed.

"You two must be close to be so in sync. I'm guessing she is a member?"

"Yui-chan is my girlfriend yes," Naruto nodded.

"I see…" Kyouko glanced at Yui. "Have you… you know?"

"W-what?!" Yui blushed bright red. "No! Of course not!"

"Of course not?"

"B-because N-Naruto and I…. We aren't married."

"Muu!" Lala exclaimed loudly. "But when Naruto becomes the ruler of all the galaxy then you'll marry him so why does it matter that you aren't married now?"

"W-well…" Yui faltered under Lala's intense stare.

"Leave her alone," Naruto hugged Yui causing her to let out a cute squeak of surprise. "Not everyone is as confidant about matters like that as you and Momo."

"Muuu…" Lala pouted. "Naruto's taking Yui's side."

"I'm not taking anyone's side," Naruto chuckled as he hugged Lala with his free arm, whose face instantly lit up with a mega-watt smile as she returned the hug.

"Geez," Kyouko grumbled. "Don't you look like a serious playboy? A pretty girl under each arm."

"Ahaha," Naruto released the hug and rubbed the back of his head.

"Naruto!" Lala crossed her arms and pointed at Kyouko. "You can't not hug her!"

"Eh?"

"She'll think you hate her!" Lala pointed out.

"Kyo-chan knows I don't hate her, right?" Naruto glanced at his friend.

"That's right," Kyouko laughed. "You don't have to hug me."

"…That means I do doesn't it." Naruto deadpanned.

"Definitely." Lala nodded.

"Most certainly," Yui chuckled.

"I would advise it." Saki's voice sounded over the radio.

"…Saki?"

"That's Saki-sama to you."

"Hello Psycho Maid," Naruto rolled his eyes. "How much of this conversation have you heard?"

"I don't think Lala switched off her microphone." Mikado sounded amused. "You'd better have a hug for me when we are done here."

"Oops," Lala stuck her tongue out and tapped herself on the head.

"…Sure why not." Naruto shook his head at Lala's antics. "Hugs for everyone."

"Oh my? Well if you are offering," Saki chuckled.

"A hug?" Rin seemed to think for a moment. "I would accept that offer."

"Why would I want to hug you? Wait… If you are hugging me that means I can slip a poisoned knife into your back… Very well. I shall allow you to hug me once… It will be a… intimate hug with some penetration however."

"Like hell I'm going to hug you after you said that!" Naruto remarked. "And don't make stabbing me sound sexual! I'm not some sort of horn dog who would abandon reason at the thought of sex!"

"Could have fooled me," Hanabi stated bluntly.

"Maybe that was her plan," Rin pointed out. "To make it seem like hugging her would be a bad idea so that you wouldn't do it."

"… Damn it." Naruto grumbled. "I hadn't thought of that. Fine I will hug you so hard you'll… you'll wish I didn't hug you so hard!"

"That was lame," Hanabi retorted.

"So is your face!"

There was an uncomfortable silence on the comms.

"Really?"

"Shut up," Naruto grumbled.

"Ah I think I figured out how to turn the microphone off!" Lala beamed.

"Great," Naruto sighed. "A little too late though…. What was that?" Naruto suddenly raced into a classroom.

"Seeing things again?" Kyouko and Lala peered over his shoulder.

"I could have sworn…" Naruto shook his head. "I thought I saw a girl's face… only it was strangely translucent."

"Like a ghost's?!" Lala and Kyouko eagerly scanned the room.

"Ghosts aren't real," Yui sighed. "It's just your imagination."

"Yeah… you're probably right." Naruto shook his head. "I guess I'm a little on edge."

"To the basement then!" Lala declared. "If there are any ghosts they are sure to be there."

"That's right," Kyouko nodded. "If someone died here it was probably locked up in the basement!"

"W-what?" Naruto gulped. "You think that there is some sort of angry spirit in the basement?!"

"Probably a really dangerous one." Kyouko's eyes sparkled. "Let's go!"

"Roger!" Lala saluted and followed Kyouko.

'Oh no!" Oshizu's eyes widened. 'I can't let them go down there. It's dangerous' She thought to herself as she floated just above the doorway. 'B-but… I couldn't even speak to him when he saw me!

"…Isn't something being dangerous a good reason to not go somewhere?" Naruto turned to Yui.

"Since when has that stopped you?" Yui remarked.

"Right," Naruto grinned weakly at Yui, "I suppose I should keep up with the group." He shook his head and ran after the girls.

"Um..." Yui heard a soft voice from beside her.

"Hello?" Yui turned to see who was there and froze.

"Um… Hi?" Oshizu waved at Yui.

"G-g-g-g-…"

"I need to tell you something important." Oshizu began.

"GHOST!" Yui screamed hysterically as she raced after the others. "NARUTO!"

"Yui?" Naruto and the others quickly re-joined Yui. "Are you alright?"

"G-g-ghost!" Yui pointed at the empty corridor.

"Are you sure?" Kyouko scowled.

"Wait a minute!" Lala declared. "My Ghost-Finder-Kun is responding!" She pulled her d-dial from her cleavage.

"Ghost-finder-kun?"

"It's a super hi tech sensor that I have monitoring the school." Lala explained. "I built it whilst I was waiting for Yui-chan to get changed since she was so reluctant to dress up for the mission!"

"…You really are a genius aren't you?" Naruto smirked before what Lala was saying fully registered. "What a minute… You mean there actually is a ghost here?"

"I think so," Lala pouted as she stared at the display on her d-dial. "I'm picking up a faint presence nearby but a really, really powerful one in the basement!"

"Really?" Naruto looked around. "S-so are we going to focus on the weaker presence?!"

'Please do that.' Oshizu prayed.

"What kind of ghost hunter are you?!" Kyouko challenged Naruto.

"A very poor one." Naruto nodded.

"Gah! Where's your heroic spirit? Are you going to let Rin-chan face such a powerful threat alone?"

"Damn it," Naruto groaned. "Today was supposed to be a simple party. Why does everything have to escalate? First I have to fight the First Holy Knight then I overhear Haruna confess she wishes she accepted my confession and now I have to…"

"Wait a second!" Lala interrupted Naruto. "What was that about Haruna?"

"Oh that," Naruto scowled softly. "It's not important."

"It… It sounded important." Yui cut in.

"She said something under the influence of a truth potion of Momo's concoction."

"That Momo!" Lala crossed her arms. "I'm going to have to have a work with her! But isn't that good? If Haruna wants to be with Naruto then we can just invite her to the harem!"

"I don't have a harem." Naruto responded automatically. "It's not that simple. Haruna and I… As much as I know that I love her… I also remember how her rejection hurt. Plus there's Rito's feelings to take into account."

"Muu…" Lala stomped her foot down. "Why do you have to let him win?"

"Let him win?" Naruto echoed Lala. "Matters of love aren't a game."

"You know what I mean." Lala sighed. "You are so… pig headed!" She stamped her foot again causing the whole building to shake.

"Eh?"

"You have decided that Rito would be better for Haruna-chan but what if that isn't true? What if Rito being with Haruna would hurt both of them! Wouldn't it be better to save them both from the pain of a failed relationship?!" Lala's shoulders sagged. "I just hate seeing you get all bent out of shape because of Haruna and Rito."

"Thanks," Naruto kissed Lala on her forehead. "But you don't have to worry about me. Just trust and love me okay? I'll make my way through this with you and the others supporting me."

"Idiot," Lala pouted. "That's like 90% of what I do!"

"Only 90%" Naruto sighed dramatically, "I thought our love was more important to you than just 90% effort."

"Well that would 90% loving and supporting. 9.9999% thinking about sex with you the rest is all just tinkering with my inventions."

"You spend almost 10% of your time thinking about sex with Naru?" Kyouko blinked.

"It used to 50% until we actually had sex," Lala happily chirped, "Then it went to 25% and I guess since I'm pregnant it is less important to me now."

"Oh I see… Wait did you say you are pregnant?!" Kyouko blinked.

"That's right!" Lala hugged Naruto's arm. "We are going to be a family!"

"And you are okay with this?" Kyouko glanced at Yui.

"Why wouldn't she be?" Lala looked confused. "One day she too will carry Naruto's child."

"W-what?" Yui blushed crimson.

"You don't want to?" Lala looked at her shocked.

"W=well it isn't that I don't want to…" Yui mumbled.

"See," Lala looked triumphantly at Kyouko. "Everyone will carry Naruto's child at some point!" She beamed at the dumbfounded Kyouko.

"I… I…" She looked at Naruto who had the grace to look embarrassed.

"My love life is very complicated." Naruto admitted apologetically.

"It's not." Lala laughed. "We love you so we all date you! The only complicated thing with you is this whole Haruna/Rito business but I suppose you are keeping that separate from your harem affairs."

"He doesn't/I don't have a harem," Naruto and Yui exclaimed.

"When you put it like that…" Naruto begrudgingly admitted. "It is awfully simple."

"See?" Lala beamed.

"Really?" Kyouko looked thoughtful. "So you are saying there are no real issues?"

"Well…" Lala tilted her head. "It is like having a lot of sisters! We all care about each other but we might have minor disagreements but at the end of the day we make up."

"You have disagreements?" Naruto blinked. "I've never really seen any of you argue."

"Oh they are usually trivial things," Lala laughed.

"Like Lala wanted to fly a spaceship," Yui remarked offhandedly.

"No one ever lets me fly!" She pouted.

"Maybe because every time you do you end up crashing."

"Not every time…"

"You crashed the Kyuubi into Rito's and Mikado's houses not to mention you crashed the… H.L.P.M. into a criminal masterminds ship and hurt Naruto!"

"I got better," Naruto weakly interrupted. "And what the hell is the HLPM?"

"The Harem Lord's Pimp Mobile…" Lala pouted. "I wanted to call it NaruLala Love Nest 3000 but Momo managed to convince me otherwise. It's your huge frigate!"

"I have a frigate now?" Naruto blinked. "And remind me never to let Momo name anything ever again. She's almost as bad as you are. Maybe it's a devilukian thing?"

"Hai! Bunta-san is fixing it up since it took a little damage." Lala nodded.

"When you rammed it into another ship," Yui reminded. "Which only goes to prove the fact you cannot fly."

"I'll never learn if you won't let me," Lala pouted childishly.

"Naruto!" Rin's voice sounded over the comms. "Where are you?!"

"What's a matter?"

"We found the ghost in the basement… It is far more powerful that we believed! We need your… SAKI-SAMA!"

"I'm on my way!" Naruto charged towards the basement, all fears about ghosts forgotten. His precious people needed him.

---

"N-no!" Saki struggled as the glowing red tentacles hosted her up into the air, "S-stop that!"

"Saki-sama!" Rin narrowed her eyes and leapt a good ten feet into the air before slicing through the glowing tentacles as if they were nothing, grabbing Saki and landing uncomfortably on the floor. "Damn it…"

"Rin?" Saki noticed how she was holding her ankle, "You're hurt!"

"I messed up the landing," Rin hobbled to her feet. "I should be fine in a few moments… I've never seen a ghost like this though…"

The basement was a large storage area that had been cleaned out long ago, leaving only the smell of decay a very faint light that illuminated their target. A strange looking writhing mass of tentacles that glowed with an ominous red light.

"COME GET SOME!" Hanabi roared as she peppered the creature with custom ammunition that had been blessed by an elder priestess on the top of Mount Fuji (not for ceremonial purposes or anything: that was just where Hanabi's mother lived). "Tch," Hanabi tossed aside the empty cartridge and quickly reloaded with a frightening degree of expertise before continuing launching a barrage of blessed bullets at the writhing mass which twitched and groaned under the assault but showed no signs of damage. "What the hell is this thing?! Saki-sama you must pull back!"

"I won't leave you behind," Saki scowled.

"This isn't a ghost," Mikado remarked as she furiously tapped on the screen of her tablet. "My reading suggest this… this poor thing was once a human."

"W-what?" Saki's eye widened.

"It… It shows signs of severe genetic modification." Mikado's eyes narrowed. "Without any regard for the subject's life at all…"

"What kind of monster would do such a thing?" Rin narrowed her eyes angrily. "Fear not, I shall release you from your suffering. My name is Rin Kujou and mine is the crest of Gabriella!" Rin felt her strength increase as the ghostly priestess robes covered her body with six wings proudly displayed from her back.

"Aaaah!" The monster groaned in pain and launched a countless barrage of tentacles at them.

"I am the blade that protects Saki-sama!" Rin crouched, her sword drawn. "Mugen Buredo! (Infinite Blades)." She arms vanished as she moved beyond the speeds of human perception, her sword shredding the tentacles that were sent towards her.

"Look out!" Mikado cried out as the tentacles attacked from the side. "Sorry but only Naruto gets to touch me like that!" She scowled as she injected a powerful paralytic into the tentacle that was trying to cop a feel. "I'm not that kind of girl."

"Saki-sama watch out!" Hanabi pushed Saki to the side as a small group of tentacles that had flanked them dived towards Saki. "H-hey!" Hanabi struggled against the tentacles that bound her arms and legs and lifted her into the air. "S-s-stop that!" She squirmed as the tentacles started to grope her breasts. "No… I refuse to have my body sullied like this!"

"Rin!" Saki cried out in alarm as another group of tentacles hoisted her into the air, "Hey! How dare you molest a lady of my standing?" She struggled against the creature as its tentacles wrapped around her tightly. "No!" She cried out as she struggled to free herself.

"SAKI-SAMA!" Rin was distracted for a second but that was all it took for the tentacles to wrap around her arms, preventing her attack. "D-damn it!" She too was lifted off of the ground, the tentacles starting to caress her body.

"Kaze Yari!" A spear of near invisible energy shredded the tentacles holding Saki and Rin and Naruto quickly caught them as they fell, his Arcangus form allowing him to fly quickly and easily lower them to the ground.

"N-Naruto…" Saki blushed as she cuddled up to his chest.

"Thank you," Rin bowed her head. "I was caught off guard. It will not happen again." Rin drew her sword and glared at the monster.

"Hinotama (Fireball!)" Kyouko threw a huge fireball at the central mass who writhed in pain and withdrew its tentacles to protect itself, causing Hanabi to be dropped unceremoniously on the ground.

"To try and do such things to me in the presence of Saki-sama!" Hanabi rolled to her feet, tossing aside the SMG and switching to the assault rifle on her back. "Let's see how you like this!" She launched a short burst of rounds which detonated on contact with the creature, forcing it back. "Not so tough now are you?" She roared, peppering the creature with explosive rounds.

"What the hell is that?" Naruto blinked.

"You can't get close to it!" Oshizu materialised in front of Naruto's face.

"Huh?" Naruto blinked stupidly. "G-g-g-g…"

"It sucks up the spirits of those it traps." Oshizu warned him. "If it gets a hold of you it will rip your soul straight out of your body!"

"G-g-g-g-g…"

"A real ghost?" Kyouko blinked.

"That's so cool!" Lala cheered.

The creature groaned in pain. "So MaNY preTTy gIRls… I… WaNNa FeEl ThEM... So… HungRY! Male… No InteREst… Feed…"

"Naruto?!" The girls glanced at Naruto who was still paralysed with fear at the ghost.

"FEED!" The creature launched a tentacle that ended in a strange suction cup straight at the frozen Naruto.

"N-No!" Oshizu stood between Naruto and the monster, getting swallowed by the tentacle." I… I am glad I got to speak to you this once. I think… we would have made great friends." Oshizu smiled bravely before the creature finished absorbing her.

"W-w-what just happened?!" Yui blinked as the tentacle retracted.

"It… It ate that ghost girl."

"What?" Naruto blinked. "She… The ghost… saved my life? Hey you tentacle bastard… Spit her out!"

"So taSTY!"

"You bastard!" Naruto launched a barrage of powerful wind attacks at the creature. "SPIT HER OUT!"

"Naruto… our attacks aren't doing enough damage to kill it in time to save the girl," Saki frowned sadly. "I know this is hard to take but we have no choice but to fall back and think up another plan!"

"This creature has had its genetics corrupted," Mikado shook her head. "It appears highly shielded against aura attacks as it is partially composed of energy like a ghost. Also the analysis of the physical parts of the creature appear to be able to regenerate from physical attacks too quickly for us to kill it. That ghost sacrificed herself so we could escape. Don't let her sacrifice be in vain."

The world froze and went grey but Naruto could still sense everything that was happening. He heard a clicking noise, like someone wearing high heels walking behind him. The noise continued until he saw a female version of himself. The female him had blackened hands that looked more like claws and the same applied to her feet. A simple black vest with barbed wire around it were the only items of clothing that she was wearing. She turned to Naruto with bright red, slitted eyes and smiled before turning her attention to the monster.

"There's nothing we can do? Right?" In the frozen grey scale world, the corruption walked up to the creature. "You are injuring it but you can't kill it without killing the little girl who sacrificed herself to save you." She turned to face Naruto. "It hurts doesn't it papa? You know that you can't save her and it is twisting you up inside. It is hurting you papa. I told you… The longer you play at being something you are not the more it will hurt you until there is nothing left but pain.'

"I will not give up." Naruto declared.

"Papa… Why do you have to be such a fool? Do you not realise the pain will only get worse?"

"Maybe so… But if I didn't try and protect them then really… what's the point? Lala, Momo, Nana, Yui, Kushina, Mikado, Kyouko, Rin, Saki… Hell even Hanabi and the ghost girl. They are what gives my life meaning. Otherwise I would just be a delinquent getting into pointless fights because of my hair colour. They give me the encouragement and recognition I need to carry on trying to prove that I am not just some thug, to carry on being a hero."

"Papa… looks so cool when he gets all fired up…" Corruption put her black clawed hands on her face to cover her blush, "Fine… I will save the girl for Papa."

"How?"

"Foolish Papa. You can tap into your Arcangus aura fully but your Damus one is still sealed to you. You cannot call up Asmodea's powers for you don't hold this…" Corruption held out a claw and a strange red symbol appeared above it. "This is the Key of Corruption."

"Then you will give it to me?"

"If I gave you it you wouldn't know how to use it to save the girl. I do. Even if you did know how to use it, you would need about 30 minutes to full absorb the key. My estimate is in 10 minutes there will be no ghost girl left to save."

"You just want me to hand over control of my body!"

"Only temporarily," Corruption smiled. "Only so I can save the ghost for Papa."

"…Why would you do that?"

"Simple… I want Papa to see what he could truly do if he just accepted me." Corruption smiled. "To see the power that is rightfully his as soon as he realises the futility of this charade he insists on playing."

"You save the ghost girl and that's it." Naruto scowled. "I get my body back straight away."

"Of course Papa."

"… Don't make me regret this." Naruto sighed as Corruption walked up to him, swaying her hips.

"I won't Papa." Corruption put her clawed hands on either side of his face and kissed him deeply.

"Because…" Naruto blinked with red slitted eyes as colour returned to the word. "I wouldn't want to upset Papa."

"Naruto?" Lala shivered. "You… You are not Naruto."

"Observant," Naruto tilted his head. "I am… Call me Asuka. I always liked the sound of that name."

"Asuka?" Rin scowled. "Have you possessed Naruto?!"

"My name is Asuka Asmodea Deviluke, daughter of Naruto-Papa," Asuka ignored the glares from the girls. "And mine is the seal of Asmodea."

There was a sudden explosion of an energy that felt so impure and wrong that the girls started to feel sick just from being in its presence. When the energy cleared Naruto was gone. In its pace a demon stood, glowing red eyes glanced at them scornfully as she floated above the ground with two black leather wings. A devilukian tail hung lazily behind her and two ram horns spiralled from her head. She was wearing the same black shirt as Naruto had been wearing in his demon cosplay with the open shirt resting on her nipples but revealing the rest of her body with barbed wire holding the outfit in place. A pair of bikini bottoms were the only thing worn below her waist beside a pair of barbed wire anklets on both feet. She was twirling an old fashioned smoking pipe between her fingers as she looked around the room before settling on glaring at the monster as if it was dirt beneath her boots.

"This power is amazing isn't it Papa?" Asmodea-Asuka purred as she slipped her hand beneath the shirt and teased her nipples. "Ah! The pleasures of the flesh… This is Papa's hand…" She smiled as the hand trailed down towards her crotch. "Ah but I promised Papa to save the girl… Such a shame…" Asmodea-Asuka glared at the tentacle monster. "Tell me something… What is your wish? Is it to be inside a cute lil' girl like me~?" Asmodea-Asuka winked.

"inSIdE cUte… GiRL… WaNT… ThaT!" Its tentacles all started aiming at her.

"So that's your wish is it?" She laughed shrilly. "I see. Well I will grant you your wish." She gestured with a hand and a series of glowing red crests appeared around the creature. "You know Papa has only just started to tap into his powers. He doesn't understand just what he can do with them. For example Papa's Shoten ability involves him compressing his own aura, his own energy to make it possible to use more of it at once. But it doesn't have to be his own energy." Asmodea grinned as the red seals started to arc red lightning at the tentacle mass. "He could use it on any energy source, say a star or someone else's attack… or maybe a monster that is partially made of energy."

"paIN…" The monster groaned as it was compressed until it fit into Asmodea-Asuka's palm.

"Time to grant your wish~" She tossed the compressed monster into her mouth and chewed experimentally before spitting him back out. "Sorry~ I spit not swallow… At least when it isn't Papa who is involved." She sighed wistfully as the monster returned to its original size although its skin seemed to be pulsing and the red glow seemed far more sinister, with the occasional surge of red energy crackling across its skin. "Do you feel it? My corruption ability is quite powerful. That regenerative factor that you had is now attacking your own body and your energy side is how corrupted… It answers only to me." Asmodea-Asuka smiled. "Which means…" She clicked her fingers and the creatures exploded. "I can do that and seperate your corrupted energy from the pure, untouched energy of ghosty girl like so."

"W-what?" Oshizu looked around as she reformed. "I… what?!"

"You're scared aren't you~?" Asmodea-Asuka turned to the girls. "You fear Papa's true power."

"No," Rin shook her head. "That power is frightening… But I know Naruto will never use it for evil."

"Naru's a hero," Kyouko smirked. "So we don't have to worry about that."

"So give him back now!" Lala ordered. "Or… Or I'll use Satalin and kick your ass!"

'Wait… You mean I finally get to fight! Hell yes! I've waited nearly two decades for you to finally call on my power in fight that's worth my presence!' Satalin sounded like a kid for whom Christmas had come early.

"You say that now," There was a surge of the unholy energy and Naruto reappeared with red slitted eyes. "But we shall see. Should you ever hurt my Papa, I will end you." The red eyes slowly faded and were replaced with blue.

"Eh?" Naruto blinked stupidly.

"He's back!" Lala cheered.

'Are we sure? Go on let's just fuck him up a little bit for making you worry.' Satalin begged.

"Ah… T-t hank you." Oshizu bowed her head.

"I'm sorry," Naruto looked at her. "I was so surprised..."

"Scared," Kyouko interrupted.

"… Surprised," Naruto repeated firmly, "To see a ghost that I just froze up. I'm sorry."

"B-but you saved me again," Oshizu smiled.

"Again?" Naruto blinked.

"Yes you saved me from that dog and now this," She blushed. "I… I don't get many visitors but I am glad I finally worked up the courage to talk to you!"

"I'm glad too." Naruto smiled. "My name's Naruto Uzumaki… or Namikaze I guess but just call me Naruto, yours?"

"Shizu Murasame," The ghost girl beamed. "But you can call me Oshizu."

"How long has that thing been here?" Naruto scowled at the twitching remains of the monster.

"About three weeks," Oshizu played with her hair. "All my other friends left here because it scared them away but I am anchored to this place so I can't leave… I've spent 400 years inhabiting this area… The area where my shrine was." Oshizu sighed sadly.

"400 years?" Lala gasped. "That must have been boring."

"Shrine?" Naruto took in the girl's appearance for the first time. "Oh you do look like a shrine maiden."

"H-hai!" Oshizu smiled. "When I saw all those shrine maiden's entering the school I was surprised but happy. I wanted to talk to them although I can't help but feel that standards have changed."

"Pardon?" Rin raised an eyebrow.

"I mean those skirts," Oshizu blushed. "They are awfully short and the top is awfully low cut."

"I didn't wear this because I wanted to!" Yui tried to pull the dress down again. "I only did it because Naruto liked it."

"Er…" Naruto laughed weakly. "They aren't real shrine maidens but are simply dressed up as them."

"Oh I see," Oshizu tilted her head. "Is that common now?"

"Well… Not really," Naruto admitted. "But I think that any girl can look good in a shrine maiden's outfit!"

"Is anyone taking notes I feel like we might be about to learn about another one of Naruto's fetishes." Mikado whispered causing Saki and Kyouko to laugh whilst Rin and Lala took a mental note.

"R-r-really?" Oshizu blushed. "Even me?!"

"Of course," Naruto nodded.

"Oh my," Oshizu looked away embarrassed.

"Why don't you leave this place?" Lala asked.

"I told you I am anchored here." Oshizu sighed sadly. "So long as the stone I am bound to is here I can't leave."

"Hmm…" Mikado looked thoughtful, "If you show me this stone… I think I might have an idea."

"Truly?"

"Truly," Mikado smiled at the excited ghost. "Show me where it is on and Lala?"

"Hai?"

"Could you have one of your inventions collect the remains of that creature. I want to run some tests on it."

"Will do!" Lala saluted cheerfully.

"Great," Mikado turned to Oshizu. "So that stone?"

"This way!" Oshizu happily floated down the corridor.

"So…" Rin cleared her throat. "Who won that?"

"I guess it was Naruto." Saki sighed. "I guess that means you get one request from me."

"I didn't actually win though…" Naruto mumbled. 'That was the Corruption.'

'She's called herself Asuka, just so you know.' Asmodea's voice informed him. 'Have to admit I have never seen corruption behave like her before. Once again I'm looking at you Raphael."

'Mmph?!'

'Is she alright?'

'I've just got her gagged and bound… It got a little sexual. Just some light petting.'

'And I'm going to ignore that and repress that.' Naruto shook his head.

"Well it was still technically a member of your team who won so I am classing that as your victory." Saki continued. "So…" She smiled seductively at Naruto. "What's your request?"

"It had better not be indecent," Hanabi turned the assault rifle on Naruto.

"I can't think of anything I want right now," Naruto laughed weakly. "How about I get back to you on that?"

"Sure," Saki clapped her hands together. "On another note I do believe there was talk of a party although at this time I fear that the mansion staff will be cleaning up and I don't want to give them more work…"

"Well we could always have the party at my place," Naruto shrugged. "That way everyone else can get involved."

"Right!" Lala punched the air. "Let's do that!"

"I wouldn't want to intrude," Saki started before Naruto cut her off with a chuckle.

"You are more than welcome to visit my house whenever you want," Naruto smiled. "We are friends right?"

"At the moment yes," Saki smiled. "Although after having a talk with Mikado-sensei… I do not think we will remain that way for long."

"Really?" Naruto frowned. "Is there something about me you don't like?"

"I feel… We will be much closer in the not too distant future and I feel that calling you a friend would be a cruel play down of our relationship." Saki whispered as she walked passed Naruto, who followed her with a smile.

"Is that so?" He chuckled. "Well… I guess we'll see what the future holds."

---

"I'm stuffed," Naruto patted his stomach happily.

Everyone (except Rito who had gone straight to bed) was sat in a party area that Lala had designed and created when they arrived. It was like a giant ballroom filled with beanie bag chairs and televisions and consoles. Currently Kushina was losing to Rin on a fighting game and Hanabi was completely dominating online multiplayer on a FPS. She was currently 125 Kills for 1 death after 3 games and that one death had only happened because Naruto had spilt a drink over Saki and she had asked Naruto to brush her dry.

Nana and Mikan were playing a dancing game with limited success whilst Yami watched them curiously, yet resisted any and all attempts to get her to join in. Kyouko, Aya and Run were having the time of their lives on the karaoke machine (which surprised Naruto as Run was an idol so he assumed she would get fed up of singing at some point) whilst the others were gathered in the centre of the room on the beanie bag chairs, just chatting and having fun.

"Let's play a drinking game!" Momo declared.

"I don't know…" Naruto frowned. "Aren't you a little too young to be drinking alcohol?"

"It wouldn't be proper," Yui agreed.

"I don't mean alcoholic drinks," Momo smirked. "We can have fun without them!"

"Oh?" Lala tilted her head. "What drinks did you have in mind then?"

"That's the fun part," Momo clicked her fingers and a small waiter drone (another one of the things Lala had built shortly after arriving) hovered over to them and produced a tray with several different shot glasses on it, causing the table to hover in between the group. "Each of these drinks has a different effect."

"Such as?" Naruto asked, still remembering the truth potion.

"Well," Momo laughed. "There is at least one shot of that truth potion here."

"That reminds me!" Lala crossed her arms. "Why did you make a batch of that?!"

"Oh well," Momo smiled weakly. "I figured that if Naruto was more honest it might help expand the harem."

"He doesn't/ I don't have a harem," Naruto and Yui responded.

"Amazing," Saki fanned herself. "You really do say that as a reflex and in sync as well." She chuckled as Yui and Naruto looked a little embarrassed.

"I admit it never crossed my mind the sort of damage that could occur should the potion fall into the wrong hands. I have learnt my lesson there." Momo looked genuinely sorry so Naruto decided to let her off.

"I guess you had my interests at heart but still… at least give me heads up before you doing something like this again."

"You aren't going to tell me not to do something like that again?"

"Even if I did you wouldn't stop." Naruto chuckled.

"If you really wanted me to stop I would." Momo's voice was so sincere Naruto couldn't resist giving her a quick hug.

"So the game?" Mikado asked.

"Oh right," Momo cleared her throat, "As I was saying there is at least one truth potion… although there maybe two. I can't remember how many I made. The rest are all relatively harmless for example they will change your hair colour or something for a few minutes. In short it is all harmless fun."

"Those truth potions have the potential to cause harm though," Naruto pointed out.

"Don't worry these are far more watered down than the original." Momo assured him. "That first batch was not meant for human consumption so its effects were instantaneous and powerful. This new batch will just make it slightly harder to lie to someone."

"Oh," Yui looked relieved. "That is much better."

"Why?" Momo smirked. "Does Yui-chan have something to hide? Is she worried a dose of truth serum might have her revealing all the naughty things she wants Naruto to do to her?"

"W-what?" Yui went crimson. "T-that is not at all why I don't want to take the serum! S-stop it with your shameless accusations!"

"So it's kind of like Russian roulette?" Naruto stared at the identical shots.

"Oh that gives me an idea!" Lala declared. "We put a spinner in the middle and whatever the spinner stops on is what you have to drink!"

"Or you could take a forfeit instead if you are scared of what might possibly happen," Momo volunteered.

"Right!" Lala nodded.

"Sounds fun," Naruto nodded.

"Count me in," Saki smiled.

"Me too!" Kyouko declared. "I'm not afraid of a little truth serum!"

"NarNar can just ask me whatever he wants to know!" Run beamed at him. "My three sizes are…"

"Not important right now." Kyouko cut her off. "So how does this work?"

"Right." Momo smirked. "It will be the game of Kings. For those of you who don't know what it is you all draw identical sticks from a cup," Momo presented a completely opaque cup with several sticks out of the top. One has a crown on and the others have numbers on. Whoever gets the crown gets to give an order to the others but only using numbers so they don't know who they are ordering!"

"Oh I've always wanted to play this," Saki agreed. "However I never had a large enough group to play it with before."

"Well you don't have to worry now!" Lala proudly declared. "We are always here to play with you."

"I… That's good to know thank you," Saki smiled.

"So the king can order anything?" Hanabi smirked.

"Yes but if one of the numbers decides not to carry out the order given then they take a shot instead!" Lala clapped her hands.

"Or a different forfeit if they don't want to drink the shot." Mikado added.

"And if they don't want to do the forfeit… Well we will think up something else." Momo smirked.

"Right!" Lala looked pumped. "So who's in?"

"Everyone looks like," Mikado chuckled as everyone, even Yami, joined the group.

"So then…" Momo smirked. "Let's draw straws!"

"Right!" Everyone reached into the cup and quickly drew a stick.

"So…" Lala looked around, "Who's the king?"

"That'd be me," Mikado smirked. "Now let me see… 12 should kiss 4!"

"Well I'm 4," Saki smiled.

"W-w-what…" Hanabi stared at the stick in her hand. "I'm… I'm 12…" 'I… I get to kiss Saki-sama?! This is a dream come true!'

"Oh?" Saki smiled. "Well I've no complaints…"

"S-s-Saki-sama…" Hanabi stepped towards her before giving her a quick peck on the cheek before passing out with steam coming from her head. "I…I…with Saki-sama…"

"You know… she is surprisingly innocent," Risa chuckled. "Next round!"

"Okay… everyone put your straws back!" Momo collected the straws before mixing them up and putting them back in the middle of the group.

"And Go!" Lala declared as everyone dived in.

"I'm king this time!" Kyouko grinned. "Well let's say… 5 has to sit in 11's lap!"

"Er… I'm 5," Mikan blushed.

"And I'm 11," Naruto smiled. "You don't have to force yourself to…"

"It's okay," Mikan sat on Naruto's lap. "Er… How long do I have to stay here?"

"Until the end of the next round," Momo smiled.

"Okay…" Mikan was bright red. 'I can feel Naruto's breath on the back of my neck… It's making me feel all tingly.'

"Damn it," Run started to bite her thumb, glaring at Mikan in jealousy.

"Next round!" Lala beamed.

"We'll have to start asking more risky stuff otherwise no one is going to take a forfeit," Momo smirked.

"And draw!" Lala beamed. "Oh! I'm the king this time! Let me see… I got it! Number 5 has to reveal a dark secret!"

"I'm six," Mikan sighed happily as she returned to her previous seat.

"N-No way!" Yui cried out. "I won't!"

"Oh?" Momo smirked. "Guess that means either a drink or a forfeit and your forfeit would be… To remove an item of clothing!"

"W-w-what?" Yui shivered. "F-fine… I'll have a drink then." 'I am basically wearing a shrine maiden's outfit and my underwear. That doesn't leave me much room for undressing.'

"Let's spin it up!" Momo laughed and watched the spinner. "Here you go… one shot!"

"Bottom's up!" Lala gave her a thumbs up as Yui drank it. "It tastes fruity."

"They all do," Momo assured her. "It's the flavouring I use."

"I don't feel any different… Why is everyone looking at me like that?"

"S-so," Naruto coughed, trying his best not to laugh. "That's what Yui chan would look like bald."

"W-w-w-what?!" Yui reached up to her now shiny head.

"Don't worry!" Momo laughed. "It will wear off in a few minutes and your original hair will reappear."

"Next round!" Lala declared.

"Hey I'm the king," Momo smirked.

"Oh gods." Naruto blinked.

"We… We're doomed aren't we?" Yui whimpered.

"I say… twelve has to make out with six, with tongues and everything!"

"…I'm six." Naruto held up his hand.

"Who's twelve?!" Run started to death glare everyone.

"…Me." Hanabi and Naruto stared at each other.

"Drinks!" They called in unison.

"Muu…" Lala pouted as Naruto and Hanabi were given shots.

"Well here goes nothing," Naruto took his shot. "Heh… I feel all tingly."

"I am not afraid of a mere drink," Hanabi took her shot. "I don't feel strange at all."

"Man… should I be annoyed that Naruto has bigger boobs than me," Nana mumbled.

"Eh?"

"Oh! Fem-Naruto looks cute!" Lala clapped.

"Fem… oh right…" Naruto noticed his breasts and lack of Excalibur.

"This isn't permanent right?" Risa glanced at Momo, "Don't get me wrong I can see my having quite a bit of fun with Naru-chan but I have grown quite fond of his legendary sword."

"Eh?" Mikan blushed crimson.

"It will only last a few more seconds." Momo assured her.

"I feel absolutely fine, all the joy in the world is mine." Hanabi stated. "What is this? Is someone taking the piss?"

"Oh that's cute!" Saki laughed genteelly. "Is this drink forcing her to rhyme?"

"Looks like it," Naruto chuckled.

"I will stab you with a knife before you lay with your wife."

"Too late for that," Risa smirked.

"Doesn't count!" Lala pouted

"Next round then?" Momo smirked and the group were so engrossed in the game they failed to notice Rito sneak outside, unsble to sleep etween his racing thoughts and the sounds of happiness from the party.

---

Naruto stepped out of the house for some fresh air. "Must be going on midnight," He remarked idly. They had been playing Kings for a least an hour and he had been groped, kissed and almost pinned down and ravished by the girls. Fortunately it was Run who got the 'ravish' command from the king and Lala was less than keen on Run getting what she wanted. Naruto sensed some sort of rivalry there but chose not to look into it too much. Lala would tell him if she thought it important.

Rito noticed Naruto leave the house from his spot down the street, where he had been pacing trying to think of a solution for his relationship with Haruna and after much sould searching had come up with an answer. He would tell Naruto that Haruna liked him and tell him that he should date her. After all how could he compare to Naruto? As Rito prepared to walk over to Naruto, he noticed another familiar figure and quickly hid behinds some bins.

"N-Naruto-san?"

"Haruna?" Naruto turned to see Haruna stood staring at him. "Are you… Are you alright? It's awfully late to be walking around at this time. "

"Heh," She smiled sadly. "We… We never really called each other by our given names. I wonder why?"

"Probably because it would be awkward being so familiar after you turned my confession down."

"Ah," Haruna smiled softly. "So… It would be my fault."

"Not at all," Naruto chuckled. "If you didn't want to date me then that's fine."

"Can I ask you to walk with me?" Haruna looked at the full moon. "I… I want to want around and at this time of night…"

"Don't worry," Naruto nodded. "The girls are having a party in there so they won't miss me for a bit."

"Is Yuuki-kun in there?"

"He went straight to bed," Naruto shrugged. "Don't know why."

"Ah…" Haruna smiled softly as the two walked around absent-mindedly. "Do you ever wonder what it would be like if I had said yes?"

"Honestly?" Naruto chuckled. "Up until Lala showed up that was pretty much all I thought about."

"I see." Haruna smiled sadly. "But now?"

"Now it's complicated," Naruto shook his head. "I mean… can you honestly imagine yourself as part of that madhouse?"

"I… I don't know." Haruna admitted. "I mean… You always seem to be having so much fun."

"When I'm not off picking fights with intergalactic assassins and crime lords." Naruto sighed.

"Well," Haruna tilted her head. "Besides then."

The two walked along in silence, unaware of thier tail. Not a word was spoken until Haruna chuckled softly.

"Naruto…" Haruna paused. "We ended up at the school."

"Force of habit huh?" Naruto laughed. "When we walk together we always seem to be headed here."

"Yeah…" Haruna entered the school grounds and Naruto followed her. "It seems like we used to be inseparable but ever since we started this year… we've started to grow apart."

"You know I am always just a phone call away," Naruto pulled out his phone for emphasis.

"I remember when my number was one of the very few numbers on that phone." Haruna smiled.

"Yeah…" Naruto looked at his contacts. "I sure have a few more people on this thing now."

"I'm happy for you," Haruna paused before the cherry blossom tree where Naruto had confessed to her, although at this time of year there was no blossoms in the branches. "But still… I need to ask you something."

"Haruna?"

"Naruto… I like you," She looked him in the eyes. "Would you go out with me?"

Rito froze at those words. 'Even though she had already told me... To hear her actually confess to Naruto.' He closed his eyes, tears forming in his eyes and threatening to spill. So consumed with his own emotions, he didn't hear Naruto's response.

Naruto froze up as he saw her looking at him. Not so long ago he would have said yes without a moment's hesitation. As she stood before him, bathed in the moonlight she looked positively angelic. Part of him wanted to say yes, to take her in his arms and never let go but he knew deep down that isn't what would be right. She wasn't confessing to him out of love… She was confessing to him out of fear that she was going to lose him. Her earlier outburst about Lala showed that much.

"No." Naruto said the words he would have never imagined himself saying. "I don't think we'd make a good couple." 'That's a blatant lie.' "I… I think we should just be friends."

"Right," Haruna smiled, tears glistening in her eyes. "You're right." She sniffled sadly. "I… I guess this is what you felt like when I…"

"Don't worry about it," Naruto smiled reassuringly. "In the morning you'll feel much better. I did." 'Another lie…' "I… have outgrown those feelings I had for you so you don't need to worry about it." 'Thank the gods I didn't take that truth potion…'

"It doesn't feel like it will go that quickly," Haruna whispered.

"Besides… we both know that someone else needs your love more than me." Naruto put a hand on her shoulders. "Go get him. You don't have to worry about my feelings."

"Thank you." Haruna wiped her tears away. "Naruto."

"No… thank you Haruna," Naruto grinned. "I think we both needed this eh?"

"Yes," Haruna smiled and hugged Naruto just as Rito started to pay attention again.

"Eh?"

"You will always be dear to me." Haruna whispered.

"Don't worry," Naruto returned the hug. "I'm not going anywhere. I promise that. No matter what I will always be here if you need me."

"I know." She whispered as she gripped his jacket tightly. "Thank you so much…"

The two of them just stayed like that, Haruna's tears soaking Naruto's shirt.

"I needed that," Haruna finally broke the hug, her eyes red from the tears shed. "I… I should go home."

"I'll walk you back," Naruto smiled.

"Thank you," Haruna smiled softly before kissing him softly on the lips.

On witnessing this... something inside Rito snapped. He silently left the scene, a dark rage slowly bubbling inside of him.

"Eh?!" Naruto blinked taken by surprise by Haruna's actions. "Why?"

"I had to... Sorry," She bowed apologteically. "And.. I'm sorry about what I said about Lala."

"Don't worry about," Naruto chuckled. "I know you didn't mean anything bad about Lala by that."

"R-right," Haruna unlocked her door and went inside. "Goodnight Naruto."

"Night Haruna," He smiled as she shut the door.

"Ah man," Naruto walked away from her house.

"You really are an idiot."

"Momo?" Naruto paused to see the devilukian princess emerge from the shadows.

"Didn't she confess to you?" Momo tilted her head. "I don't get why you said no."

"I told her what she needed to hear." Naruto bit his lip.

"Come on," Momo smiled softly as she hugged him. "Let's get you back to the house. King's isn't as much fun without a chance of making out with you."

"Momo," Naruto grinned at her. "Thanks… I'm glad I met you. I love you."

"… I know," Momo smiled. "You are a very loving person. Well I hope you know what you are doing."

"I do." Naruto nodded. "This is what's best for everyone."

"So you say," Momo shook her head as they headed home.

"It's for the best," Naruto mumbled, ignoring the stabbing pain in his heart as he remembered her tear stained face in the moonlight. If he knew that Haruna was still curled up at the door sobbing her eyes out then he might have believed differently. If he knew that Rito had witnessed the confession and the kiss but couldn't hear Naruto's response, he would have believed differently.

By the time he knew all this… events would have spiralled beyond his control and the cost would be high.

But he didn't know any of this so he went back to his precious people and played Kings, unaware of the events he had set in motion by trying to do what he thought was right.

But you know what they say: The path to Hell is paved with good intentions

---

Extra Info!

Asmodea's Corruption

The ability for which Asmodea was widely known was her ability to corrupt beings. Her greatest achievement was the fall Of Abados, a powerful Angus General (Who was favoured to take the position of The First Amonst Equals among the Arcangus). Michaela arranged a situation where her main rival for top spot would be isolated and gave Asmodea enough information to allow the Damus to design a deal that Abbados would never turn down. The end result was the Angus was twisted in flesh and mind, becoming the bloodthrirsty Damus general that would claim many Damus and Angus lives before she was finally destroyed with the rest of the Damus by the Great Destroyer; Kaguya.

This ability can corrupt the flesh (causing cancerous growths and general deformation of a body. Theoretically these corruptions could be improvements although Asmdoea never used this ability to buffer her allies, only to weaken her enemies) or infect thier energy (causing it to behave erratically or even in some cases to allow Asmodea complete control over there energy she has corrupted.)

Naruto's Compression Ability

Naruto's ability to compress energy is unique to him. This essetially means his shoten techniques as well as Akuma no Hageshi Goon and his Rasengan variants can only be used by him as they make use of this unique ability. The origins of this power is not understood and despite her searches, Lala has found no mention of such an ability in the records she has access to. For now she believes it is just a freak mutation and that thier children will carry the ability as well.