A/N: EDIT: I genuinely thought this chapter, short as it was, would cheer people up. Make 'em smile, you know?
Sadly, judging by the lack of feedback, it seems I failed. Suppose that's what I get for writing while I sick T_T
Shorter chapter than I'd like. Reaaaally not feeling well.
Trying to push through it all. Hopefully I succeeded and made someone smile.
Looking forward to reading your reviews/chatting with you all when I get back from work.
Once more, we're sticking with the "Embers" rule for this story, and others. If folks don't like this, it won't be continued. Meaning that if the story itself ain't popular, I'll discontinue it soon thereafter. I'm working two jobs -holidays are upon us!- so I barely have time to write; as such, I cannot afford to write something folks don't enjoy. So by all means, speak up! Your voice matters! Make yourself heard!
Only a few questions this time around.
Q: Plans for this story?
A: Without spoiling things, we'll get to see some more named characters, each of whom were associated with the main cast in some shape or form.
Q: Update schedule?
A: Just about everything. Managed to update yesterday too somehow, so its probably gonna be every damn day this week in addition to work. Tiiiiirrreeeed...
I'm preparing updates for Shield Hero and the rest in my head, but those chapters are massive and they need time.
I've got two new stories burning in the back of my head, but I'm trying to hold off.
One's actually a Fate story featuring Naruto and Medusa, of all things...
Q: GWYNEVERE WHEN?! Best big girl for best big boy!
A: They'll meet soon.
Q: Can we get more gigachad moments?
A: Not the word I'd use, but sure, Naruto's not done causing a stir as Radahn. After all, in this reincarnation, he doesn't care to hide his strength and ability; moreover, he's become incredibly driven as a result.
Meaning we're in for a few surprises~!
Alright then, I've kept you long enough. Lets get into the meet of the matter and have some fun!
As ever, I own no quotes, references, or memes. Not a wit or a one. NOPE!
They're merely tributes to legends far beyond me~!
"You can be so much more than you are.
All you have to do is take my hand.
Here. I'll meet you halfway."
~?
Rising to Greatness
Today was an auspicious day...or so Naruto had been told.
In truth he didn't understand what all the fuss was about; only that it had seen both him and his parents bundled up into a carriage early this morning and sent on their merry way with barely a word. He'd barely had time to grab his swords and cloak on the way out. Probably a surprise of some sort. The lone knights guarding them only served to further arouse his suspicions. If they truly were departing on some long journey, why not have a full escort?
Something was afoot. Made him proper curious, it did.
"Shall we have a look?"
Kurama didn't need to prod him further. He was already squirming past Rennala and Radagon. Propping himself up on his knees, the young redhead pushed off posh blue cushions and unlatched the carriage window. Warm wind rushed forth; he squinted against it, looked past their escort and glimpsed golden grass, craggy outcroppings, and the Erdree looming large in the distance...
This was the Altus Plateau. Why were they so far from home?
A familiar figure in silver armor cantered up on a dark steed, blocking his view. "Back in the carriage, young master. We've a long journey ahead of us."
Naruto grinned, not even a little chagrined. "Aw, but Loretta! Its boring in here!"
"No buts, Radahn!" she nudged him. "In you go!"
He complied with a sigh, latching the window behind him. He'd thought it a shame to leave little Leonard behind, but he could see why Radagn had been so adamant now. Although his scrawny steed was growing stronger, he wouldn't be able to make this kind of journey on his own. Not yet. He'd be well looked after by Sellen in his absence. Hopefully.
Anxiety gnawed at him stil, worrying at his thoughts like an old dog with a bone.
Leaving the academy of Raya Lucaria wasn't so unusual; he had ventured out with Radagon several times already, even going so far as Limgrave once. But never with mom present, and certainly not when she was this far along. Just thinking of her in her vulnerable state made his fingers itch.
She'd refused to be left behind, however, and so here they were.
The carriage rattled harshly yet again and he risked a glance her way when she wasn't looking. His fingers twitched at his sides anew, itching to cast another healing spell for what felt like the umpteenth time. He knew it wasn't needed. Mom was plenty strong. A few bumps on the road wouldn't kill her. She looked content enough in her signature robes; head resting against Radagon's shoulder, peaceful as can be. His senses told him she was healthy, the little light within her even moreso. His brother -or sister!- would doubtlessly be strong, just like him.
And yet.
He coughed into the silence. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm fine, dear." Rennala kept her eyes closed and fobbed him off with a smile, one hand cradling her stomach. "Just resting. Don't worry."
But he did! He was finally going to have a sibling! They had to be healthy! She looked like she might go into labor any day now! Shouldn't she be at home?!
A pale hand descended on his head, mussing his scarlet hair. "Relax, boy. She will be fine."
Baleful golden eyes glared up at him. "...if you say so."
"I do say so."
Naruto subsided with a sigh, for once feeling every bit the child he presently was in body, if not spirit. Would it be a boy? A girl? Sorcerers supposedly had ways of telling, though they hadn't told him. Something about it being a surprise. Rennala and Radahn seemed to enjoy those. They'd already bantered a few names about when they thought he wasn't listening.. One or two stuck with him.
Ranni? Or maybe Rykard?
He just couldn't contain himself! So exciting!
Still, it begged the question. He had an inkling -a worrying one!- but he dare not say it aloud. "Where are we going, anyway?"
Rennala and Radagon exchanged a wry look. The former opened her eyes at last. "Shall we tell him, beloved?
Radagon granted her a rueful grin. "I suppose we should...
"We're off to see your cousins." Rennala offered a languid, if sleepy explanation.
Naruto rocked back in his seat.
"Cousins? "He couldn't hide his smile. "I have cousins?! Why didn't anyone tell me?!"
"Yes. Godwyn and Gwynevere." Radagon amended, noticing his smile. "They're of an age with you...and the Queen wishes to see you."
...I see."
He understood, now. This little "visit" wasn't so much by choice as necessity. Outside forces were bound to take notice sooner rather or later. Frankly it was a miracle he'd stayed under the radar this long. His parents had kept him safe in Liurnia these past few years. Sheltered him. He'd grown stronger for it, child though he still was. And now his strength had been noticed.
No matter. He didn't fear the forces of Leyndell. Whatever god dwelt there would not upset his plans-he wouldn't let them.
Perhaps that was selfish of him to try and hoard it all this time around; to cling to his emotions and principles, nothing more. No, it undoubtedly was. Any sane scholar would say so. He didn't care. This was his second life and he had every intention to enjoy it as he hadn't in his first. He'd given everything in his first life. No bitterness there. Only honesty. That meant his second life was his to live. Happy family, loads of siblings, plenty of friends, lots of descendants.
He wanted to enjoy this life, wanted to FEEL something. Meet a girl -or girls if the universe threw another curveball at him- make friends and fall in love, get married, settle down, maybe even raise a family. That sorta thing, you know? Typical goals for a normal life. He wasn't about to let something like death stop him. But before that he was gonna be the best damn brother ever. His future sibling would want for nothing.
And if anyone tried to harm his family?
He'd drop the stars on their heads.
He would protect them all.
(.0.0.0.)
Leyndell was...large.
There were probably other, grander words he should use to describe the Capital, but for the life of him, Naruto couldn't think of them.
Seeing was, as they say, believing.
Grand spires and sweeping Gothic architecture, flowing arches and beautiful buttresses, magnificent buildings that just seemed to go on forever; stretching further than the eye could see.
And the people! So many people!
He could see knights manning walls and stalls, pages and nobles racing hither and yon through crowded streets, great crews of builders constructing new buildings even now, no doubt seeking to further expand the already prosperous city further still. This was Leyndell in its prime. Capital of the Golden Order, home to Queen Marika the Eternal, immortal ruler of the Lands between
And there at the center of it all, looming larger than ever and wholly impossible to miss...
.
..
...the Erdtree really was gigantic up close.
Naruto found himself whistling at the sight of it. This thing made Kaguya's tree look tiny by comparison.
"Feh." Kurama scoffed. "I could knock that thing down, no problem."
Could he? He was almost tempted to let him try, if only to see what would happen. But no, they weren't here to destroy the city. Entertaining though that might be...
Just pat the main thoroughfare a squad of golden knights awaited them. Their carriage clattered to a halt. Weapons in hand, they stood at attention.
A grand welcome indeed.
Radagon departed first, leading Rennala out by the hand. Naruto bounded down after her, grateful for the chance to finally stretch his legs. Not even ten and already he was nearly too tall to fit in a proper carriage. Damn wheel-boxes were tiny anyway. He made a show of stretching, yawning openly.
Loretta's helm snapped his way. He grinned at her, daring her to object.
"Please behave, young master." he heard the whisper beneath her helmet, a desperate thread for his ears alone. "We're not in Liurnia anymore...
He winked her way. Of course he would behave...well, mostly.
"Welcome to the capital, my lords and lady." The taller of the golden Knights stepped forth to command his attention. Naruto noted the partisan gripped tight in the man's right hand, a towering greatshield in his left. "I am Kristoff. We have been expecting you. I trust your journey was pleasant?"
"Indeed it was." Rennala nodded gratefully, ever the dignified queen. "We thank you for your hospitality."
"Excellent. We shall take you to the queen at once."
She smiled. "We shall be in your care. Knight Loretta shall accompany us.
Radagon waved a hand dismissively, not caring for such niceties. "As you were. Lead on."
One of the knights swiveled, perhaps noticing him at last. "Judging by your hair, you must be Radahn?"
Kristoff kicked his shin. "Oleg!"
Naruto nodded once, finding himself warming to this blunt knight already. "That would be me, yes."
They certainly seemed friendly enough; he didn't sense even an iota of ill intent from them. Anxiety perhaps, but that was only when they looked to Rennala and noted her pregnancy. It made them stand all the straighter, more determined than ever to protect their charges. These two weren't a threat. They were simply good men trying to do their job. Who was he to begrudge them that? Their only crime was being a bit overeager.
Who would blame them for that?
Oleg bowed. "Welcome to the capital, young master. I hope you have a pleasant stay."
Naruto blinked. "Young master...?"
Loretta called him that from time to time, but why would these...?
"Ah, you've not been told." Oleg sounded abashed behind his helm. "Forgive me. The queen can explain. Right this way...
Kristoff and Oleg were men of their word.
In short order the found themselves ushered up a flight stairs, down a hall, through another doorway, so on and so forth. More of the same now, taking twisting turns and narrow streets that all threatened to blur together after awhile. For a child it certainly would have; but he was no child now was he? He kept one ear out, listening halfheartedly to the adults as they were guided higher and higher into the city.
Left, right, up down, left again, up once more. Naruto kept track of it all; making note of the landmarks as they went until...
...quite suddenly, they arrived.
A tall woman awaited them in the foyer beyond. Warm firelight flickered across her pale skin, and flowing black gown. He took notice of her sharp blue eyes and blond hair. She burned in his senses like a searing brand, a shining star that threatened to scorch his very senses. She sat there, lounging before, flanked by an absolute bear of a man with...
.
..
...was that a lion on his back?!
'And here I was thinking I'd seen everything...
His gaze zeroed in on them, paying his surroundings no mind.
"Thank you, Kristoff. Oleg." the blond woman nodded their way. "You as well, Loretta. You may break your fast outside."
The trio departed, Loretta with a lingering glance.
Naruto nodded her way. He could feel her gaze on him until the door shut, pleading him to behave.
...was he really that bad?
"I bid thee welcome." the woman smiled and spoke with lilting grace, "To our home and-oh!" Her gaze strayed to Rennala's stomach, eyes widening. "My, my. Already working on a spare, are we?"
Rennala's face closed down, losing all semblance of civility. "That is no concern of yours."
"Be assured, I meant no harm by it. I wished only to congratulate you."
"Godfrey!"
Naruto jumped at the sudden exclamation, expecting the worse. Thankfully, his father wasn't half as antagonistic.
"Radagon!"
The two warriors clasped hands and drew one another into a bruising embrace.
"You're going grey, my friend!
A growl. "And your hair is still red!"
Radagon grimaced. "Must you say that everytime we meet?
"Yes, I must!"
Naruto smiled a little. Well, at least some things were normal.
Marika's gaze fixed upon him, and that smile died an ugly death. "So this is the infamous Radahn I've heard so much about.
He lifted his chin a little. "I am."
"So bold. Do you know who I am?"
His mind whirled as he frowned. With such regal bearing, and the power he sensed from her, no two ways about it. Might as well play the game...for now.
"You're the Queen." he tried to sound deferential, failed, judging by the sudden interest gleaming in her eyes. "Queen Marika the Eternal.
"So polite. And what of you, young one?" her regal gaze narrowed upon him once more. "I've heard tell of you. Prodigy of Lucaria. They say even the stars themselves fall under your sway.
An exaggeration. He wasn't able to exert full control over them...yet. In a few years it might well be a different story.
The man beside her stirred. "If he is as capable as they say...
Marika tutted. "You're not fighting the boy, beloved. Skilled though he may be, he is no match for you-
Naruto shrugged. "I wouldn't mind."
"Oh?" Godfrey's gaze snapped to his and he caught a glimmer of interest within those grace-given depths, a hint of battle lust stirring in the depths. "Then perhaps-
Marika tweaked his arm. "Godfrey."
The Elden Lord heaved a sigh. "Perhaps when you're older."
"Come." Radagon drew him aside. "There are things I wish to discuss with you, old frined...
Naruto blew out a quick breath, grateful for the interruption. Could he beat Godfrey? The idea appealed to his pride. He suppressed it. No, no, make friends first, challenge their father later. Marika was crouching before him now, claiming his attention once more, and curiosity or no, he had to attend her...even if he didn't like the look in her eyes just now.
"Do you know any spells, dear boy?"
The ghost of a smile touched his face. "A few."
"You may show me, if you wish. I shan't take offense."
"..."
"By all means," she goaded, "Hit me with your best shot."
Nope. No way in hell was he going to ignore a proper challenge like that.
Gravity magic flared, driving Marika to one knee. She grunted in surprise. "Gravity magic? From one so young? Impressive...
Rennala hid a wry grin behind her hand. "Do forgive our son. He knows not his strength."
"Is that so?" Marika's smile was only slightly strained as she stood. "Perhaps I should keep an eye on him, hence."
Naruto blew out a sigh...
'I think I've caught the attention of someone troublesome.'
"Such a powerful boy." Marika cooed suddenly, drawing him back to himself. "Why have you not brought him to court?"
Rennala's face was the coldest of moonlight. "We did not feel the need."
Yikes. Mom could be seriously scary when she wanted to be. Don't make hr made.
"Ah, but I digress." Marika retreated with a sudden smile. " You were not brought here for an interrogation. We are here to celebrate!" Plucking a bell from her robes, she rang it once, letting the sound ripple through the foyer in a clarion call. "Godwyn. Gwynevere. Come meet your cousin. Don't keep him waiting, now.
A door opened in the nearby wall. Two children emerged from within. Naruto noticed the boy first.
Godwyn was a slender youth clad in white robes, a good head shorter than him. He granted him a brisk nod, one Naruto found himself halfheartedly returning. He seemed alright. A little too serious perhaps, but nothing out of the ordinary there.
But his sister...
"Well, well. Someone's tall."
Gwynevere actually matched his height. Her hair was darker, brown bordering on red, lovely curls hiding her dark eyes as she ducked behind her mother. The sight immediately endeared her to him. Such a shy girl, trying to hide behind her mother's skirts. Not that she could when she was that tall, but still...absolutely adorable.
"Come now, don't be shy." Marika nudged her. "Say hello to him, Gywnevere."
The girl flicked him a shy glance. "Hello...
Naruto deigned a wave. "Nice to finally meet you."
"...!" She squeaked, cheeks blushing a vivid red. Red, like so many roses.
Poor thing. He took pity on her and adopted his most winning smile. "Wanna be friends?"
She reached a hand out and warily -tentatively!- took a hold of his fingers.
Looking back, that was probably the moment things changed.
The moment every went terribly, wonderfully...
...right.
A/N: Aaaaand there we go.
Got another timeskip coming up next chapter...
Once more, we're sticking with the "Embers" rule for this story, and others. If folks don't like this, it won't be continued. Meaning that if the story itself ain't popular, I'll delete it soon thereafter. I'm working two jobs -might need a third soon!- so I barely have time to write; as such, I cannot afford to write something folks don't enjoy. So by all means, speak up! Your voice matters! Make yourself heard!
As ever, reviews are my lifeblood. Without them, I cannot write.
So In the Immortal Words of Atlas...
...Revieeeeew, Would You Kindly?
They keeps an old man alive.
And enjoy the previews.
As ever:
POTENTIAL PLOT DETAILS AHOY!
SPOILERS! SPOILERS!
YE BE WARNED!
Some are very far off, mind you.
Obvious references are obvious, of course~!
(POTENTIAL!) Previews! What can I say? I've been busy.
"I won't let anything happen to you.
Gwynevere perked up. "You'd fight anyone?"
"Of course. He grinned. I'll take on all challengers. Even the stars themselves."
"PUSH!"
A babe's reedy cry split the air.
"Its a girl!"
He considered the small babe in Renala's arms. "Well, I always wanted to be a big brother…"
The little girl gazed up at him. He grinned down at her.
"Welcome to the world, Ranni...
Gwynevere steeled herself.
Yes. She could do this. Breathe!
They'd talked countless times before. This would be no different.
Gwynevere managed a timid wave. Radahn pivoted. How someone so tall could move so quickly was beyond her.
"Did you need something, cousin?" he lowered his swords. I'm a bit busy here. Well," he grimaced at the ruined practice dummy. "I was.
She bowed her head and thrust her hands at him. She was holding flowers. But not just any flowers.
"They...they reminded me of your red hair."
His jaw clicked open.
"Oh."
Ranni raised her arms, someohow managing to looking imperious despite her small stature. "I wish to be held."
Naruto howled with laughter.
Rykard tottered after him on pudgy little legs. Even at the age of three, he was a stubborn one "Big brother, waaaaiiit!"
Loretta knelt. "As you will my lord."
"We found this one skulking about, sir. Tried to break into the academy, she did. Took down three of my best men.
"Will they live?"
"Aye, but they've got some nasty burns...
Naruto ripped the hood off the woman's head. Defiant eyes glared back at him.
For all her bruises and cuts, she still radiated stoic dignity.
"What is your name?"
...Friede."
EDIT: Kudos if you guess who this is.
Fight the stars, eh? Always did like a challenge...
EDIT: Hey, you made it!
Once more, we're sticking with the "Embers" rule for this story, and others. If folks don't like this, it won't be continued. Meaning that if the story itself ain't popular, I'll delete it soon thereafter. I'm working two jobs -might need a third soon!- so I barely have time to write; as such, I cannot afford to write something folks don't enjoy. So by all means, speak up! Your voice matters! Make yourself heard!
Looking forward to chatting with you all when I get back!
R&R~!