Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or Danganronpa.
Chapter 17:
Our Melody
Politics.
What a fascinating concept. Naruto had never once bothered to think about them if he was being honest. Even with his dream to become Hokage, politics had never played a role in his life. At least, they hadn't affected his decisions in the slightest. He did what he thought was right, regardless of the consequences. Kakashi always said that kind of thinking was going to land him in hot waters one day, but he had never condemned Naruto's way of thinking either. Basically, his sensei secretly did approve but just kept up airs.
Naruto missed him.
On the other side of the equation, those who were only interested in their status, only acting when it benefited them….Naruto despised people like that. Which is basically what politics were all about.
Fuyuhiko's world was a bit more complicated than that unfortunately. Politics played a very big role in his life. It wasn't an aspect he very much enjoyed, but it was something he had come to accept a long time ago. Mingling with the political elite in Japan was just another day for him. It was something that helped the clan stay afloat in many ways. His father had such a strong presence in the country thanks to the connections he had built over the course of his life. It was something he was trying to teach to Fuyuhiko, for him to learn the importance of that.
Sometimes, might wasn't everything. It was words that won the day.
That was what these parties were for. For Fuyuhiko to start to build political alliances that would help him in the future. Alliances that would benefit the clan.
The parties were also to have fun of course. If there was one thing the rich liked, it was expensive parties. But the Kuzuryu clan head could do both at the same time. He could continue to foster these alliances while also having fun. He didn't limit himself in any sense of the word.
Of course, to someone like Naruto, most of this went over his head. He simply enjoyed the party for what it was. Just a party. Namely the food and drinks which were being served to him directly by Fuyuhiko's mother.
Like Peko and Natsumi, the older woman was in a kimono. But unlike the two girls, there was a certain charm on the woman that wasn't lost to the blond. It was sort of like she was more sophisticated. Or rather, she had an air of experience about her that Peko and Natsumi both lacked. That all the other girls in his class lacked as well if he was being honest.
Jiraiya had said something about this during their training trip. An experienced woman was not to be underestimated, or something along those lines. Naruto was finally starting to understand what his perverted master had been trying to teach him.
"I hope you enjoy yourself tonight," she said to him as she poured more of the drink into his cup. It was non-alcoholic. It was supposed to be some blend of fruits. Naruto had missed the explanation. He just knew it tasted great.
"But of course!" Naruto grinned like a little kid, enjoying the service. "I'm glad you decided to invite me."
It was technically Fuyuhiko who had extended the invitation, but that didn't matter right now.
"The pleasure is ours. It was about time our little Fuhi got a friend his own age. I know he needs to inherit the clan someday, but he still needs to enjoy his childhood."
Naruto didn't disagree with that sentiment in the slightest.
"That's why we're glad you're here." She sent him a beautiful smile that made Naruto's cheeks burn. "So enjoy yourself as much as you can."
"H-Hehe, right!"
Naruto scratched his head bashfully. It was like he was talking to his crush or something.
How embarrassing.
After she went to attend some of the other guests, Fuyuhiko came up to him and elbowed him rather hard.
Naruto winced at the sudden blow.
"W-What the hell was that for!?" he hissed.
Fuyuhiko scowled. "Stop leering at my mother like a little schoolboy."
It was weird. And disgusting.
"I can't help it. She's beautiful."
"You son of a bitch."
The two looked like they were going to get into a fight until Peko showed up and stopped them.
"Quit it, you two." She glared at them both. The glare was enough to make their spines tingle in fear. "We are in the middle of an important dinner. You can't behave like children in front of all these people."
Even though she was glaring at them and oozing authority, she also had Kurama in her arms again. And with him, she was being as gentle as she could be as she stroked his fur.
Naruto and Fuyuhiko looked away. It was like they had just been denied their favorite toy or something.
Peko could only shake her head in dismay. 'These two.'
They were definitely going to cause her more headaches in the future, she just knew it.
In the midst of his sulking, Naruto noticed Natsumi standing in the other side of the room. She was surrounded by several men who had teens their age next to them. They seemed to be talking excitedly about something while Natsumi herself was looking pretty bored.
What was that about?
"So you noticed, huh."
Naruto glanced to Fuyuhiko, who sighed and looked over to his sister.
"It's a pretty common sight in these parties. A lot of the old man's friends bring their sons over to try and set up a marriage with Natsumi. It's gotten more annoying over time."
Naruto wasn't too surprised by this. Even someone like him could understand why people would want that sort of arrangement. The Kuzuryu clan was definitely powerful. Having close ties to a power like that was sure to be beneficial.
"It's disgusting," Peko said softly, her face annoyed. "Lady Natsumi shouldn't be pressured like that."
"It comes with the name," Fuyuhiko said back, dismissive about the whole thing. He himself had been offered similar deals in the past. He had turned them down of course. He had no interest in getting married simply for more power. Unfortunately, the vultures seemed to be more persistent when it came to his sister.
Naruto noticed something. "You don't seem worried about her."
"She can take of herself. If she can't handle some greedy politicians, then she shouldn't be a part of the family."
It may sound harsh, but it was the truth Fuyuhiko and Natsumi lived in. You had to be tough to be a part of this family.
But it was also a front. Fuyuhiko cared for his sister, but he also had faith in her. It was definitely part of the yakuza blood that ran in him that made him like this.
It was still odd for Naruto, though. He never had to deal with stuff like this in his life. But if things had gone differently for him, if his parents hadn't died the night he was born, would he have faced similar situations? With his father being Hokage and his mother being somewhat famous herself, would there have been people looking to use him as a tool to advance their political ambitions?
Hmm, it was a definite possibility, that's for sure.
It was an interesting thing to ponder, certainly. But like many other things, it didn't matter much in the end. The past was the past, and there was no changing it.
Looking toward the future was what mattered.
Not that the present wasn't important either. It certainly was. There were things that you could only do now and no other time. Which is why Naruto chose to do something that could only be done at this very instant, politics be damned.
He placed his drink down and quickly set off, leaving Fuyuhiko and Peko to look at him with open curiosity.
As for Natsumi, she hadn't been expecting to suddenly be pulled out of the makeshift circle that had formed around her. And by Naruto of all people.
She wasn't the only one surprised either.
"May we help you?" one of the men asked with a very strained smile. It was obvious that he was not happy with Naruto's interruption.
The other men shared the same reaction, while their sons didn't seem to care all that much about what was happening. They were only here because their fathers wanted them to be.
Naruto shot them all half-hearted grins as he pulled Natsumi closer to him.
"Oh, it's nothing. I was just going to ask my good friend Natsumi here to hang out with me for a bit. If she's willing."
Natsumi openly gaped at him before she realized she had her out.
"Why yes, of course! I've been looking forward to hanging out with you as well. Thanks for reminding me."
There were confused glances among the men. They had never seen Naruto before, nor had they heard anyone from the Kuzuryu clan bring him up in any conversations. So how did he know Natsumi? How were they close? What was the nature of their relationship?
They had many questions they wanted answered, but Naruto and Natsumi quickly left the scene before they could be interrogated further.
Fuyuhiko saw this and simply smirked to himself.
'Fucking idiot.'
He was drawing attention to himself without realizing it. But really, he wouldn't expect anything different from Naruto. Not after getting to know him.
And he was damn happy with it too.
Peko didn't know what to think at first, but she settled with a resigned smile. She was grateful for what Naruto had just done, and like Fuyuhiko she wouldn't expect less from her friend. It was totally a "Naruto-move" in her book.
Pfft, a "Naruto-move." Maybe she should patent that.
From a different part of the room, the two parents looked at one another before smiling to themselves.
Naruto had already helped one of their children. If he could do the same for the other, they weren't going to complain.
Not at all.
"I can't believe you did that. Not even my onii-chan would attempt something like that."
Natsumi was so giddy, she could barely stop herself from laughing.
"He probably wanted to, but being the heir probably stopped him. He totally wanted to kick their asses, though."
"Yeah, I guess so. It wouldn't be fair for me to expect anything different after I passed up the chance to be the heir."
A sour look began to settle on the girl's face as she and Naruto escaped to one of the outer halls in the compound. It was the hall that faced the garden. There was a nice gust of night wind blowing right now, so it was pretty comfortable for the two of them.
Especially for Natsumi who let her hair down. Keeping it in a bun was such a pain.
"You take everything personally, don't you?" Naruto mused out loud, resting next to the wall with his arms crossed. From this angle, he could see the moonlight striking down on the garden.
It was gorgeous.
"Huh? What's that supposed to mean?"
"Not much. Just that it seems like you like to blame yourself first before blaming your brother."
"Isn't that natural?" Natsumi frowned. "He's different from me."
"How?"
"You've been around him. He's not like most people. He's talented, and he will lead the clan to greater heights. He'll be a better leader than even our Papa. That's why it's hard for normal people to understand him."
No, it was impossible. That's why normal people could never be friends with him.
"Hm, that's a high opinion you got of him." Unlike her, Naruto's voice was flat and without admiration.
"Are you saying I'm wrong?" Natsumi was starting to get defensive. She was glad that Naruto had pulled her out of that situation, but she wasn't enjoying the way he was doubting her words. Doubting her brother.
"In a way." Naruto shrugged. "Fuyuhiko is amazing, but he's not perfect either. For example. Letting his little sister get harassed like that while doing nothing about it. Like I said, it was probably his position that got in the way, but it doesn't make it right."
That, or it was his awkward attempt at showing his trust in his sister. That's what Naruto had come to understand after getting to know him. Fuyuhiko wasn't one to express himself properly. It was because of this awkwardness that it was easy to misinterpret his actions. Peko had done it, and in many ways Natsumi was doing the same thing.
"You shouldn't talk about stuff you don't understand," Natsumi hissed, her eyes narrowing. "He's the heir to the strongest mafia group in the country. Stirring up trouble with important people is just-"
"Politics." Naruto cut her off and shook his head. "I understand Fuyuhiko's position. Believe it or not, he's not the first clan heir I've befriended. But I don't much care for that type of sentiment."
"What?"
"Yeah. I've never once considered it. Stuff like image or status. Politics in general really. To me, they're outdated thoughts that only hinder progress."
Of course, Naruto was speaking from an outsider's perspective. It was easy to dismiss them when you weren't involved in them. He had his background to thank for that.
Regardless, he stood by his words. He might only be able to do so because he wasn't in Fuyuhiko's shoes, but that didn't mean he didn't believe in what he said.
"Like I said, stop ranting about stuff that you know nothing about." Natsumi wasn't having any of it. To her, his words were nothing more than the thoughts of an idiot. "Being put in a tough position like that, having to worry about the fate of so many people. How can you possibly know what that entails?"
"I know what it's like to fight for other people," Naruto stated firmly. "I've been doing it for many years now. I've risked my life many times for those that are precious to me. I still plan on doing it. Your brother? He's one of them. I've made a promise to myself. That's why I wouldn't let something like politics get in the way of helping him. Or any of my friends."
As he said, image and status were nothing more than foolish ideals that didn't factor into his decisions. They never would. Such ideals only led to complications, and more often than not prevented you from helping those you care about.
Like with Fuyuhiko and Natsumi.
Natsumi threw her arms in the air and scowled. "You're insufferable, you know that? How my onii-chan became friends with you is beyond me!"
She might have held some respect for the blond before, but it was gone now. Disregarding her brother's position like that….it annoyed her.
"He didn't make it easy," Naruto said, amused. "He tried to fight it at first, but I guess my charm won the day."
"Urgh, that's really creepy. Never say that again."
Naruto pouted. No one ever believed in his charm. Just terrible.
"Besides, you're saying that from a privileged position too!" Natsumi huffed and turned away from him. She wasn't going to lose this argument. "You go to Hope's Peak Academy. Your future is already decided. That's why you can act so arrogant."
His future? Decided? Naruto almost laughed.
"Things are never that easy, you know. I do have a goal, but beyond that my future is pretty much in the air."
"You have success waiting for you. That's what happens to everyone with talent."
"You're putting too much emphasis on talent." She was like Nagito in that regard. But unlike Nagito, there was a sense of desperation attached to her. A need. "Just because you have talent doesn't mean you'll be happy."
Naruto had learned that first hand through his new bonds and his old ones.
Natsumi was annoyed again, but it was far stronger than her previous annoyance. It was borderline anger now.
"You're a total idiot. The biggest idiot I've ever known. No, the biggest idiot that's ever lived! How can you say talent doesn't matter? Of course talent matters! It's all that matters in this world! Without talent, you're nothing! You're below trash!"
Without talent, she couldn't even walk next to her brother whom she loved the most. That's why she was in this position, unable to attend Hope's Peak Academy with him.
How could Naruto just dismiss all that?
He was a total idiot, alright. He was the worst!
Despite not being able to see her face, Naruto knew he had pushed a touchy subject. Natsumi's shoulders were shaking, and she was no doubt close to crying. But they would be tears of anger, not sadness. She was definitely trying to reject everything he was saying.
"Talent isn't everything," Naruto repeated. "If you obsess over it, you'll find that you only have despair waiting for you. I've seen it happen to many people."
Lee came to mind. And in many ways, Naruto was the same. He had been jealous of Sasuke's natural skills in the Academy, and what did that get him? Instead of focusing on himself, instead of bettering himself, he had been jealous of someone else's skills which had only made him frustrated with himself. It didn't lead him anywhere.
Sasuke was more proof of this as well. His talent hadn't made him happy. All the power he attained hadn't brought him the fulfillment he had wished for.
Obsessing over talent….it was one of mankind's greatest mistakes.
"I already know what I want," Natsumi said, her fists shaking. "Just because other people are indecisive doesn't mean I'm the same. I have my goal. It's not an obsession. I can tell the difference. You got that?"
There was a fine line between the two. Trying to distinguish the two wasn't always easy. But then again, most aspects of life were the same way.
Things were rarely straightforward.
"I don't understand why my onii-chan decided to be friends with you," Natsumi added as she started to walk away. "I thought you could understand him, but I guess I was wrong."
Was that so?
Naruto lowered his head a bit. "Tell me something. Do you really think you know your brother? Do you know what he wants?"
Natsumi paused. It looked like she wanted to say something, but she stopped herself. Instead, she continued on her way, leaving Naruto alone in the hallway.
That's what it looked like anyway. Naruto knew better.
"Did you hear it all?"
"Only the good bits."
Naruto wasn't surprised when the older Kuzuryu patriarch stepped out from the other end of the hallway.
The man appeared to be amused as he said, "You didn't think I was going to let my teenage daughter be alone with a boy her age, did you?"
Funny.
"Pretty sure if I tried anything, my body would end up somewhere at the bottom of the sea."
And he wasn't talking about what the father would do.
The man knew this, which is why he chuckled.
"True. She's got a fiery spirit. She got that from her mother."
Naruto didn't doubt that for a second.
There was a moment of silence between the two. All that could be heard was the laughter and talking coming from inside the compound. The night was still very much alive in there.
"You are a strange one," the Kuzuryu said after the pause. He walked past Naruto and peered over the steps leading to the garden. Like Naruto, he had to admire how beautiful the flowers looked under the moonlight. He had never been one for gardening and the like. That was his wife's passion. However, he had come to enjoy the sight over the years.
"Tell me, what does a man like yourself want in this world?"
Naruto hadn't been expecting that question of all things. Was it important in some way to the man?
He still answered. "I'm only aiming for one thing. Peace."
"Peace?" The Kuzuryu didn't bother to hide his amused expression. "That's rather vague, don't you think?"
"Not really. It's rather simple and straightforward. I think it fits me very well."
There was laughter. "Ahahaha! Imagine that, someone saying that peace is simple. That's a first for me."
It looked like he was being mocked, but Naruto knew that the man was more curious than judging.
"History is filled with a whole list of ambitious men who have claimed the same thing." The yakuza head looked up at the glowing stars scattered across the sky. It was like they were an assortment of dreams, just ready to be plucked out and held within your palms. Sadly, man's reach wasn't that far yet. "I wonder if you realize the treacherous journey that comes from that goal."
"I've already been warned many times in the past. But I can't afford to look back now."
Otherwise, the sacrifice of so many people would have been for nothing.
"Does my son fit into your plans?"
Plans?
The mirth was clear on Naruto's face. "I don't have a plan. I'm just going where life takes me."
Hmm. That sounded like something Gundham would say, didn't it?
"But if you're asking whether I'd want Fuyuhiko's help or not…..the answer should be obvious."
The father turned to look at him. He couldn't really contain his laughter, too engrossed by what he was hearing.
"Ahahahaha, you really are an interesting one! I can't really pin you down, Uzumaki Naruto. It's been a long time since this has happened to me."
The last being his beloved wife.
"But I can tell that you're sincere in your words." He smiled. "The future is vast, isn't it?"
It really was.
"But even in that vast and empty field, I can't help but hope that you and my son reach heights that no one ever has."
Naruto turned sheepish. "Ehehehe, there's no doubt that we will!"
Because they had each other, and everyone else in their class. That's why anything was possible.
Even the stars were within their grasp.
The two shared another laugh before they headed back to the party. The night was still young, and they were going to enjoy themselves more.
And enjoy themselves they did.
The day of the festival was finally upon them. It had been a very long week, but at long last they could enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Since it was Saturday, none of the Ultimates had to meet for class. They could instead spend the day relaxing and preparing themselves for what the night was going to bring.
That's what Naruto had been planning on doing anyway. He was curious to try out this television thing that was really popular in this world. He had plenty of ramen for the day, and Kurama had his snacks. The two were going to have a good time together.
It was a good plan, a great plan even, but all that changed with a phone call.
"Ah! You're so bold, Naruto-chan! Pulling the moves on this fair maiden! And with that bod of yours!"
Naruto deadpanned as he stood in his doorway. He was wearing nothing but a pair of green sweats. The ever excited Ibuki was before him. She had a guitar case on hand. She was wearing the same sailor uniform she had on when they first met.
"Ibuki….what are you doing here?"
She had suddenly called him, saying she was coming over and to text him the directions to the house. Before Naruto had a chance to ask why, she hung up on him. He was sure the only reason she had called was because she needed his address. Otherwise, she would have just invited herself over.
Well, she still sort of just invited herself, but it wasn't like Naruto had said no
And here they are now, with Ibuki pretending to blush as he answered the door.
"We can't move so quickly in our relationship. We have to show restraint!"
What was she going on about?
"I'm not trying to seduce you."
How would he even go about doing that anyway? Ibuki's romantic interests were as bizarre as Sonia's probably. Maybe more so.
"Eh, you're no fun~" The girl pouted. "You should really go along with Ibuki's jokes. That's the only way you'll be able to survive in the band."
Survive? What was this, some kind of test or something?
"And if you're lucky, Ibuki might just let you join her harem!"
She was still saying that? Wait, was Hiyoko part of that harem? That never got clarified.
So many questions!
Naruto didn't really get her rambling, so he he chose to ignore it. Better for his sanity that way.
"What are you doing here?" he asked again.
Ibuki gave him a peace sign. "Rejoice, for the great Ibuki has graced you with her presence!"
It was a celebration now?
"But anyway, this place is huge! Ibuki didn't know you were rich, Naruto-chan!"
He wasn't.
"Ibuki thought you were from some village!" Ibuki skipped inside, her eyes taking in every detail of the house. Kurama raised his head to greet her, but he didn't get up from the couch. "Did you lie to us?"
"It's a bit more complicated than that." Naruto closed the door and trailed after the musician. "But why did you really decide to come over? Did something come up?"
There had to be another reason besides "gracing him with her presence," right?
"Nah, I just wanted to see where you lived."
Well then.
'She just does things on a whim, doesn't she?'
Ibuki was probably more unpredictable than him, which was saying something.
"Ibuki does appreciate the free show, though~" She winked at him as she set the guitar case down. "Any girl would die wanting to touch those muscles of yours~"
Oh, yeah. He was shirtless, wasn't he. Naruto had sort of forgotten about that detail. He had just opened the door without thinking.
If this had been Mahiru, he probably wouldn't have lived to see another day.
"Oh, oh, oh!" Ibuki started to wave her hands in the air, looking more excited. How that was possible, Naruto didn't know. "Ibuki also brought some song sheets with her! We can totally jam out to several tunes! Ibuki has been working on several new songs, and you get to hear them first! Aren't you lucky?"
So that's what the guitar case was for.
At least Naruto knew why she was here now.
"So that's your motive. If you wanted me to listen to your music, you could have just said so."
"Grrrrrrr, you strike this maiden right in her heart!" Ibuki leaned back, like she had just been physically struck. "Ibuki was trying to conceal her motive, but you still saw right through her! You're not to be underestimated, Naruto-chan!"
It wasn't like she had done a good job at hiding it.
Naruto still chuckled. "I'm sure Hiyoko would have enjoyed hearing your songs more. She's like your number one fan."
Out of everyone in the class, Hiyoko was the only one who actually had a good time listening to Ibuki's music. Everyone else had a seizure while Naruto just didn't really get it.
"Mhmm, Ibuki does have a way of reaching cute girls." She crossed her arms and smiled smugly. "That's how she was able to form her old band. Ibuki's skills are beyond this world!"
Her old band? Hadn't Nagito said something about it before? About Ibuki splitting up from her group? That's all Naruto could remember.
But Ibuki leaving her friends like that. It must have been over something serious, otherwise Ibuki wouldn't have made such a decision. As erratic and clumsy as she could be, Naruto knew for a fact that Ibuki took her music very seriously.
"Hm, what's this? You looked troubled, Naruto-chan."
So she noticed. Ibuki was definitely perceptive when she wanted to be.
"Just thinking about stuff."
"Hmm…." Ibuki looked like she wanted to say more on the topic, but she let it go. "Anyway! We only have a few hours to relax under Ibuki's amazing music! After that, Ibuki has to make sure she looks hot enough for the festival!"
Pfft, hot enough?
"You're funny, Ibuki."
"Ehehehe, Ibuki thinks so too~" She stuck out her tongue. "But because of such a great compliment, Ibuki wouldn't mind having a piece of Naruto-chan as a reward."
A piece of him? What was she, a cannibal? And how the heck was that supposed to be a reward?
'A reward for her, maybe.'
But for him?
It didn't take long for Naruto to discover that his "cannibal" comment was closer on the mark than he might have liked as Ibuki pounced on him and started to bite him.
"What the hell!?"
"Hehehe, hold still! Ibuki has to munch you! Especially these cheeks of yours!"
Ibuki had turned to a cannibal! All hope was lost!
Yes, Zombie Ibuki was sure to be the world's destroyer. Nothing would stop her.
Cannibal tendencies aside, Naruto still ended up having a good time with Ibuki. It was a bizarre couple of hours, but they weren't boring.
He still didn't understand her music, though.
"You know you're late, right?"
"Cut me a break. I didn't think everyone would show up early!"
After Ibuki's unexpected visit, Naruto had gotten ready for the festival. He was in his brand new kimono, once again admiring just how soft the fabric felt on his skin. He could totally fall asleep in this thing.
Kurama took his favorite position on Naruto's head, looking very excited about the evening's events. He was probably looking forward to spending more time with Gundham's hamsters. There was a definite friendship forming there.
The two left the house a little over five. The festival was set to officially start around four, but showing up at that time when barely any people were going to be around was no fun.
That's what Naruto assumed anyway, but turns out he was totally wrong about that.
"Only Koizumi and Mitarai haven't shown up yet," Fuyuhiko said to him through the call. "Mioda is looking ready to explode. She thinks you're trying to bail on the concert."
Like he would ever.
But Mahiru and Ryota hadn't shown up yet? Naruto was surprised. He would have thought Akane would be late, or maybe even Nekomaru. But Ryota and Mahiru?
Had something happened?
No, they would have contacted them if something important had come up. It was probably nothing serious.
"Anyway, just get your ass over here. Tanaka wants to start the main event already. Since all of this was your idea, you have to be there when it begins."
Yeah, yeah.
"I'll be there soon."
He ended the call and took off running. It was hard to do while wearing a kimono, but Naruto made it work.
He arrived at the park around ten minutes later, and he was blown away by what he saw.
"It's packed!"
That was an understatement. The whole park looked filled up. All the stands, all the games, there were already huge lines for every single one of them!
How in the hell had this happened?
"Hahaha, you look surprised, Uzumaki-kun."
Nagito emerged from the crowd to greet the wide-eyed blond. He was wearing his kimono and holding a little fan to keep himself cool. It was technically still summer, so it wasn't a bad idea to have one on hand.
"Nagito! Are you seeing this?"
"Mhmm, it's glorious isn't it?" Nagito smiled as he looked back at the festival grounds. The lights hadn't been turned on yet since it wasn't dark, but it was still a beautiful sight nonetheless. "Everyone is gathered to see all of your talents coming together. It's beyond anything I could have imagined."
No words could express just how happy Nagito was right now.
That didn't really explain the turnout, though…..
Or maybe it did. Naruto had probably underestimated the influence his friends carried, or even Hope's Peak Academy in general. If the general populace caught wind that Ultimates were putting on an event like this, then it should be expected that they would come to see what the fuss was all about. After all, this was a group that was popular enough to garner Internet attention, which was supposedly a big deal in this world.
'I still have a lot to learn.'
That was an understatement.
Naruto pushed his surprise to the side. The important part was that people had come. The more people there were the bigger the chances that all the animals would get adopted. It was a win for them.
"You're one of the last ones to arrive," Nagito told him as he fanned himself. "Mioda-san and Saionji-san were very frustrated the last time I saw them. They said they wanted to practice a bit more before the show."
Yeah, Fuyuhiko had said as much. That was his bad.
"We better get moving then."
Nagito agreed.
The two boys trekked through the buzzing festival. It was the festival Naruto and his new friends had come together to make possible. After all the hard work that had been put into this, all that was left was for them to enjoy themselves.
"We're supposed to meet by the stage, right?"
Nagito nodded. "Yes. Most of the others are there. Those like Hanamura-kun are busy with their stands, but I'm sure they'll come to see your performance when it's time."
How thoughtful.
"But there is no reason we can't take a quick look around, right?" Nagito smiled. "I'm sure we still have time."
"I guess."
Gundham was already waiting for him, but Nagito's idea was appealing. They would be heading for the stage anyway, so there was no harm in taking a quick look along the way.
There were people of all ages here. Some were wearing kimonos, while others were in normal clothing. Regardless, they were all having fun.
It's exactly what Naruto wanted to see. Just people enjoying themselves.
"Ah, look. Cotton candy."
They stopped by one of the stands. Cotton candy was one of those things that Naruto was familiar with, even if he was from a different dimension. It always amazed him when he found stuff like this, stuff that was present in both his world and in this one. It showed him that humans truly thought alike even if they were dimensions apart.
It was both funny and glorious.
"It's been a while since I had cotton candy," Nagito told him as they waited in line. "I'm not much for sweets."
Naruto wasn't either, but he still enjoyed it. Hiyoko would probably enjoy it more. Sweets were definitely one of her weaknesses.
"Ah, if it isn't whiskers-kun. I was looking for you!"
Well, this was a surprise. Naruto hadn't expected Ruruka to actually come, but the girl was here. Walking over to him and waving at him like they were good friends.
She wasn't alone. Izayoi was with her, as well as another girl that looked very familiar to Naruto. But he couldn't quite place his finger on it.
The trio were all in kimonos. Ruruka's was pink, Izayoi's red, and the other girl's was black.
"You actually came."
"Of course I did!" Ruruka huffed as the trio joined them. "There are cute pets in need of rescuing, right?"
Naruto was suspicious. "You actually want a pet?"
"You don't have to look at me like that! I can take care of one! Tell him, Yoi-chan! Tell him how responsible I am!"
"Ah." Izayoi didn't share her enthusiasm. In fact, he looked like he wanted to take a nap rather than be here right now. "Yeah, milady is very responsible."
It was milady now, huh?
Ruruka looked pleased. "See? Didn't I tell you?"
Was that really supposed to mean something?
"Hahaha, well if you're looking to adopt, then you should hurry." Nagito smiled at them. "As you can see, many people have shown up. I'm not sure if there are going to be enough pets to go around."
"What?" Ruruka pouted. "You should have gotten more animals then!"
But that's not how adoptions worked?
"Well, whatever. I'm sure it'll work out," she said, her face dismissive.
'She's got confidence, or was it arrogance?' Naruto asked himself. It was hard to tell with her.
"But anyway, this festival isn't half bad." Ruruka placed a finger under her lips as she looked around. "Of course, if you had asked me for help, my sweets would have made this place shine even more!"
Oh yeah. She was the Ultimate Confectioner, wasn't she? With that title, Naruto didn't doubt that she could make some great sweets and other candies.
"What do you say, whiskers-kun?" All of a sudden, Ruruka was right in front of the blond. A little too close for comfort if he was being honest. She was shorter than him, but she still looked more intimidating than one would expect. The look on her eyes was that of a predator looking ready to pounce on their prey. "You want to try them? Hmm?"
Okay, why did this make him feel uneasy? Was there something else going on here? Something he didn't know?
Kurama was also on edge, his head lowered. It almost looked like he was poised to attack if Ruruka came any closer.
The other girl shared the same apprehension. "R-Ruruka….."
Nagito simply let the situation play out. He was having too much fun to interfere. But even so, he also had a strange feeling forming in the back of his head. Ruruka's offer was making him wary. But why?
Being a creature of instinct, Naruto stepped back. "I think I'll pass."
He was sure it would taste delicious, but at the same he wasn't going to do anything that made him feel this wary.
The oppressive air around Ruruka disappeared as she took a few steps back as well.
"Awww, that's disappointing. Everyone that tastes them simply can't get enough! I bet you would feel the same way too."
Maybe.
"Oh well, what can you do?" Ruruka shrugged. "I'm still gonna adopt one of the cute doggies, though! What do you say, Seiko-chan?"
Seiko almost squeaked as she became the center of attention. Her tentacle-like hair started to wiggle in anxiousness. Or maybe excitement? It was honestly hard to tell.
"I-I think a dog would be very nice…."
She was fond of pets, even if they didn't like to be near her. Why? Who knows. It was another one of those things Seiko would never understand.
Naruto looked at her again. She definitely looked familiar to him, especially that mask of hers. But wearing a mask with a kimono? How very Kakashi-sensei of her.
"We can take you with us then," Nagito offered. Out of everyone here, he was the one feeling the most lax about the whole situation. Why wouldn't he be? He was seeing a lot of Ultimates interacting with one another. Nothing but good could come out of that, right? That earlier weariness was probably nothing.
Ruruka beamed. "So we can get first pick? Yay!" She started to celebrate. "You're a nice guy!"
"Ah." Nagito raised his hand, looking apologetic. "I don't know if-"
"Don't worry about it." Naruto stopped him and shook his head. "She's too busy celebrating to hear you."
Sure enough, Ruruka was already hugging Izayoi about their good fortune.
Naruto just sighed.
This was going to be a long night, he could tell.
"That's not fair. How could you eat that but not try any of my sweets? It's like a slap in the face!"
"Trust me, if I slapped you, it would really hurt."
"Ah! How can you speak that way to a lady! Repent, you brute! H'mph!"
"Can I just-"
"Ahahaha, no hitting girls, Uzumaki-kun."
"Nagito, you're a saint compared to me."
"Ah. I think you're over exaggerating."
It didn't take the five Ultimates too long to reach the stage in the center of the park. Unfortunately, Naruto and Nagito made the mistake of getting their cotton candy before then, which didn't sit well with Ruruka who was once again pouting. Her sweets were definitely a hundred times, no a thousand times better than the cheap filth that they were eating. She guaranteed it!
Fuyuhiko, who was the first to notice them, raised an eyebrow when he saw the three extra newcomers.
"What's going on here?"
Naruto looked mentally exhausted as he walked up to the yakuza. "I don't know. She tagged along with us because she wants to adopt one of the animals."
Fuyuhiko took in his appearance and smirked a little. "What's with you? You look like you want to drop dead."
"You're not far off actually."
Dealing with Ruruka was…..exhausting. Mostly because he had no idea what to make of her. First, she had treated him harshly. And now she was giving him nicknames and being all buddy-buddy. What was up with that?
Fuyuhiko chuckled. "Well, you don't got time to be worrying about that. Sonia wants you to be on stage with her when she gives the introductory speech."
"What? Why?"
If anyone should do it, it had to be her.
"Hell if I know. You know how weird she can be."
"Hey, don't speak ill off Miss Sonia!" Kazuichi said as he appeared from behind the stage. "She never does anything without reason!"
"Yeah, stupid reasons," Fuyuhiko retorted. He had already made up his mind about Sonia's characters. She was definitely like a child to him, always doing things on a whim. Always so excited. Not what he would have expected from a princess, but what can you do.
Kazuichi looked like he wanted to argue some more but instead he turned to Naruto with a small glare. "I've got some things to say to you too!"
Okay, what was this about?
While Naruto was dealing with that, Ruruka was looking around to see if she could find any of the animals that were supposed to be put for adoption today.
"Where are all the cute dogs?"
"I believe they're backstage," Nagito answered as he took another bite from his cotton candy. "That's where all the prep work is being done."
The luckster had also seen Gundham lining them up back there.
This seemed to satisfy Ruruka for the moment. "So we just have to wait, right?" She glanced at Seiko. "What about you, Seiko-chan? Are you going to adopt one as well?"
"W-Well…."
Seiko didn't think that would be a good idea. Not with all of her experiments. There was also the fact that she didn't get along well with animals, as mentioned earlier.
Ruruka huffed. "Stop hesitating. Just get one too. Right, Yoi-chan?"
"Yeah." Izayoi had nothing else to add, but he rarely did.
'Ahahaha, what an interesting trio,' Nagito thought to himself as he observed them.
Ultimates really were carefree, weren't they?
"….so you got that!? I don't want any funny business up there. I'll be watching you!"
Naruto and Fuyuhiko were looking at Kazuichi like he was dirt on the side of the road. Why? Because of the tirade he just went on. Something about Naruto "keeping his hands off Miss Sonia" while the two were on stage. Whatever that meant. The two had really zoned out somewhere in the middle.
Listening to it all would have been...disturbing.
"Ah, foolish mortal."
Gundham emerged from the backstage this time. Naruto was a bit surprised to see that Gundham's kimono was pretty "normal." The color was a mix of Nagito's and Fuyuhiko's, but it didn't have any other special accessory. And of course, he still wore his usual scarf.
Speaking of the scarf, four blurs jumped down from it, just as Kurama jumped down from Naruto's head. It was the Four Dark Devas of Destruction. The four little hamsters and Kurama squatted down and started to converse with one another. Naruto had no idea how that worked, but that's what it looked like.
Gundham didn't bat an eye to this. He was instead focused on Naruto. "It's about time you got here. As the main architect of this feast, it is your duty to arrive first."
Hey, he was here, wasn't he?
"Yeah, sorry." He still apologized. "I guess that sort of slipped my mind. But what's this about a speech I'm giving?"
"It was the Dark Queen's idea. She wanted to thank everyone for coming today and to highlight the importance of forming a contract with one of these familiars." Gundham smiled. "She has some wonderful ideas sometimes, I must admit."
Oh, what's this? Gundham giving a straightforward compliment? How rare. He must be feeling really relaxed right now.
Naruto smiled as well. If Gundham was okay with it, he wasn't going to say no.
Kazuichi just sulked. "I don't know why, but I'm not liking this."
Fuyuhiko simply rolled his eyes. 'Idiot.'
Finally getting a moment to himself, Naruto noted that the stage already had all the equipment set up for the concert. Ibuki had probably done it, or at least told one of the employees to do it.
But man, he was really going to do it, huh? He was really going to take part in a concert despite having no skills. Even after practicing for the last several days, Naruto knew he sucked.
'But it's for Ibuki….'
Backing out now would just be uncool.
Funnily enough, just as he was thinking this, a blur tackled the blond to the ground. Naruto felt the air leave his lungs as Ibuki's scowling face hovered over his own.
"You're totally late, Naruto-chan! What gives!"
Fuyuhiko, Gundham, and Kazuichi sweatdropped while Nagito just chuckled. Ruruka, Izayoi, and Seiko were just plain confused.
Was this normal?
"I was only a few minutes late at best." Arguing back probably wasn't the best of ideas, but it was true! It wasn't like he had disappeared or anything.
"It's totally shameful! A guy should always arrive first. Don't you know how this is supposed to work!?"
Ooooookay, what was she talking about this time?
"Huh!? Are you some kind of monkey who has to jump on top of people!?" Hiyoko's irritated voice trailed behind. Sonia was with her as well, all smiles and rainbows at the moment. "Why do you have to do something so stupid?"
Ibuki grinned. "It's physical education!"
Kazuichi deadpanned. "Isn't that torture?"
"Eh, maybe?"
You're scaring people, Ibuki.
'No, you're scaring me!' Naruto cried out in his head.
"Anyway, as long as you're here, it's all good!"
Then why the tackle!?
Complaints aside, Naruto was able to get up on his feet after that. As he did, he saw Ibuki's kimono for the first time. Her right sleeve had been cut off, with the right portion having a lighter shade of purple from the rest. It matched Ibuki perfectly in Naruto's opinion.
"Now that Naruto has arrived, we can finally get started," Sonia said while clapping her hands. Her hair was tied into a ponytail and hanging loosely over her shoulder. It gave the princess a different vibe from usual.
Kazuichi gave her a quick salute. "Just say the word Miss Sonia, and I'll pass the message through the speakers."
'Sonia didn't miss anything,' Naruto thought as Kazuichi got to work.
"That means we have to get ready too, right?" Ibuki perked up, looking fired up.
"So soon?" Hiyoko looked smug. "But I guess that's only normal, right? Most people probably only came because they heard I was performing tonight."
"H'mph, don't get ahead of yourself," Gundham cut in. "After the Dark Queen does her announcement, the familiars will take center stage. Your foul lyrics would only hamper the process."
"Ehehe, thank you for the kind words~"
Ibuki…..that wasn't meant to be a compliment.
"But awwww, we have to wait then?" Ibuki's shoulders sagged. "Ibuki was all fired up to get started."
"Too fired up if you ask me," Fuyuhiko muttered. Would things really go okay? Knowing Ibuki, she probably only prepared the worst of songs for today.
Despite his fears, everything was set to go underway.
"Ah, that reminds me." Naruto looked back to Fuyuhiko. "Do you know where the others are?"
The yakuza shrugged. "Around. They don't have anything to do with the setup anymore, so they're enjoying the festival."
Good on them. But knowing Akane, she was probably monopolizing Teruteru's stand. Her stomach was truly a bottomless pit.
'I just hope Mahiru and Ryota get here soon.'
Having them miss the adoption would be terrible.
As planned, Sonia took to the stage to begin her message. There was a mic for her to use, which Kazuichi had set up to connect to all the speakers spread throughout the park.
Naruto was beside her. When Sonia began to speak, it was like a whole side of her was awoken. For the first time since meeting her, Naruto felt like he wanted to drop to one knee and bow his allegiance to her forever.
'Was this the aura of the Ultimate Princess?'
How frightening.
Gundham began to lead the animals up on the stage. Well, it looked more like Kurama and the Four Dark Devas were doing the leading as they went on stage as well.
"Woah, it's like an animal parade," Ibuki whistled, impressed.
Ruruka squealed in excitement. "Awwwe, they're all so cute!"
Most of the animals were dogs, but there were many cats, hamsters, and birds in the mix too. Gundham had gathered quite a bit of them over the years.
All of the animals did their best to look as calm and orderly as possible. They were definitely aware of what this was all about.
'Hah, only Gundham could keep so many animals in line like this,' Naruto said to himself, grinning somewhat.
"I want to once again extend my thanks for your participation tonight," Sonia was saying as her speech began to wrap up. "I hope that we can make tonight a very memorable night, not just for us but to all the wonderful animals up on this stage!"
By this point, a large crowd had already begun to gather around the stage. It was a true testament to Sonia's skills as there were no stands or games set up in this area of the park.
After Sonia uttered her final word, the crowd broke into cheers. The girl took a deep breath, looking quite satisfied with her success.
Naruto placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You did great."
Sonia smiled and nodded. "I thank you for your support as well, Naruto."
She said that, but Naruto didn't think he had done anything at all to deserve that. He had just stood here like an idiot. But who was he to argue with a princess?
Things progressed quickly after that. Fuyuhiko had several of his yakuza enforcers make a line to make sure that things went smoothly. This was done because only a certain amount of people were allowed on the stage at a time to look at the animals. Otherwise, it would be pure chaos up there.
Ruruka had to grumble as she wasn't allowed to skip.
"So unfair!" she cried out.
Thankfully, Seiko managed to calm her down somewhat. Or maybe it was because Naruto allowed her to pet Kurama as compensation. Either way, crisis averted!
"Things are going smoothly, aren't they?"
"Hm?" Naruto raised an eyebrow when he saw Ibuki standing next to him. The two were off to the side from where the line was, just watching everything proceed as planned. Nagito was talking to Hiyoko in a very excited manner about something. Hiyoko looked like she wanted to run away, but Nagito didn't seem to notice. Gundham was on stage with Sonia, helping anyone with any questions they may have while Kazuichi followed them with an envious glare. And finally, Fuyuhiko made sure everything was in order with the waiting line, standing with several of his enforcers. He really did look like a yakuza leader.
Good on him.
"All of this." Ibuki stretched out her arms and grinned. "Ibuki thinks it's beautiful. If there was a song for it, it'd be 'The Gathered Stars on the Stage'…..or something!"
Naruto almost snorted. "Did anyone ever tell you that your titles for your songs are a bit too literal?"
"Ehehehe, lots of people!" With both hands on her hips, Ibuki puffed out her chest. "But Ibuki likes her titles, so she will keep doing them!"
Ah, but of course. Ibuki was a free spirit. Trying to tame her was impossible.
"Is that why you left your old band?" Naruto hadn't meant to ask that question, he really hadn't. But before he could stop himself, the words came flying out.
"Oh, what's this?" Instead of looking insulted, Ibuki grinned. "Is Naruto-chan interested in Ibuki? You're moving so fast!"
"Don't start saying weird stuff too."
She certainly gave Kazuichi and Teruteru a run for their money.
"But we're both weird, right?" She bumped hips with him, still giving off that cheeky grin of hers. "You can understand Ibuki, right?"
Oh, so that's what it was.
"Music is the very definition of freedom," Ibuki continued, already knowing that Naruto understood her answer. "Reducing it to mere numbers, to ticket prices, to one genre. There's no fun in that. To limit yourself as an artist…it's one of the worst things you can do in your life. That's what I believe."
What she believed.
Naruto bowed his head and smiled. "You have a nice way with words sometimes. You know that, right?"
"Psst, only sometimes? More like always!" Ibuki poked him on the shoulder. "But you're not so bad yourself, Naruto-chan. Combining so many different elements together into a single piece. No one else could possibly do it. Your melody might be the best in the world!"
His melody, was it?
"Shouldn't it be our melody?"
It was one of ups and downs, of twists and turns. And it definitely had its out-of-tune moments. It was a complicated melody for sure, but one that couldn't be found anywhere else.
A melody that was worth more than any gold record.
Right?
Ibuki merely grinned at him.
Poor, poor Seiko. Will Naruto be able to remember her? Will she have her moment in the sun? Who can know.
But anyway, this chapter took longer than I would have liked. Mostly because I had to do a lot of editing, especially towards the end. I had to take out certain parts, add other parts, and also split it into two. The chapter was getting too long. There are some things I want to set up for later, so I have to take my time with the conclusion of this arc.
More importantly, Ibuki got a lot of love this time around. I honestly hadn't planned on it. It just sort of happened.
Oh no, am I in Ibuki's harem now!?
That's all from me.
Till next time.
