Okay here I am as usual I must response the review first
LastPenis: I plan too, but not I will stick KHR with Tsuna as main character but I plan Naruto to influence Tsuna though so he will be more confident and a bit more violent. But then again I can change about that later
The reaper of death445: Thanks for understanding
Animaman: I plan Ange will make another appearance soon just wait though as it will only in glimpse. And I also plan Naruto will use fake Akatsuki to retrieve bijuu but will ensure the host still alive, And I maybe plan to made Naruto former family to lost their own bloodline especialy the Uzumakis and Senjus. I plan to use Kaguya to do that removal so just wait 'kay
Well lets continue now
It was the time where Rias and her peerage had to attend the gathering as well as meeting with the devil kings. They took the train from the Gremory station towards the underworld's old capital Lilith. However, as soon as the peerage stepped in to the urban area of the capital, they were swarmed by mobs of people, men and women, screaming towards the group, particularly at Rias Gremory.
"Kyaaah! Rias hime-samaaaaaaa!"
Naruto winced at the high-pitched cheer that sounded almost busted his eardrums. Gasper immediately went panic and shrieked in fear before he hid behind Naruto. According to Akeno, with her beautiful looks, as well as her status as the Lucifer's younger sister, Rias Gremory had been a target of admiration among low to middle class devils. Thus, in order to avoid the crowd and anymore uproar, Rias and her peerage decided to switch over to use underground subway train and the master immediately arranged a private train to a pair of black-suited men. Of course, before they left for the underground train, Rias waved her hand with a strained smile on her face at a group of men among the crowd whom cheered at her.
The meeting was set to take place in the biggest building in Lilith, which was supposed to be the meeting place for the gathering of young devils, old families, and other elites. The bodyguards, that accompanied them, stopped and one of them led everyone to the elevator. There he stood on standby. The elevator was massive, large enough to hold everyone within its confine.
"Everyone, I will say it one more time. No matter what happens, stay in a calm state of mind. No matter was is thrown, don't start a fight. The people above us are our future rivals. We must not show our unsightly side," Rias turned to and said seriously to her peerage.
Everyone nodded resolutely at their king's words filled with fighting spirit. When they arrived at their floor, they stepped into a wide hall and greeted by an employee who gave a bow towards Rias and the other guests. "Welcome, Gremory-sama. Please come this way." They quickly followed after the employee. After they went down a certain passage, the figures of several people were in a corner.
Rias apparently recognized one of those people."Sairaorg!" Rias approached an individual who happened to be a handsome young man with short black hair and violet eyes. He was very tall and had a muscular build. "It's been a while, Rias." The man called as Sairaorg then greeted back with his smile and shook hands with Rias.
"Yes, I missed you. I'm glad to see you're doing well. That's right, there are new additions in my peerage who you haven't met yet." Then Rias turned to her peerage. "Everyone, this is Sairaorg Bael, my cousin on my mother's side." On cue, the man introduced himself. "Sairaorg Bael, the next head of Bael family at your service."
Naruto grinned when he analyzing Sairaorg. Currently said Bael heir is the strongest devil in his generation despite he didn't have Bael Power of Destruction. Sairaorg then turned his attention at Naruto, " We finally meet face to face , Naruto Uzumaki. I'm looking forward to cross-fist with you if we have the chance!"" He then proceeded to shake Naruto hand and Naruto knew how strong Sairaorg by just mere handshake and yes among young pureblood devils, Sairaorg definitely the strongest and this handshake just confirmed that.
Rias proceeded to continue her conversation with her cousin. "Um… By the way, Sairaorg. What are you doing in a passage like this?" Sairaorg then release his handshake from Naruto and replied, "Ah, we came out here because it's so idiotic in there," Sairaorg shook his head with annoyance in his voice "…Idiotic? Have the other members also arrived then?" Rias wondered
"Seekvaira and Diodora have already arrived. Zephyrdol came last. Immediately after he arrived, Zephyrdol and Seekvaira started arguing." Sairaorg's expression then became bitter.
"Really?" Naruto asked, but before he could ask more the building shook greatly. He heard a smashing sound. Naruto felt a large build up of magical energy within the room, and shook his head. "Yeah, I know!" Sairaorg said sarcastically "Geez, this is why I advised not to arrive early before the meeting."
Rias appeared to be a little worried by the sound. Without hesitation, she pushed the double doors open revealing an exquisite banquet hall. Naruto and Sairaorg just shrugged as both decided to follow Rias inside.
Inside said hall now become absolute mess. All tables, chairs and decorations had been destroyed. All the devils inside were split up into two opposing sides as they glared heatedly at the each other. Weapons were drawn and there was a thick tension in the air. One side was made of evil-looking, goblin-like devils. The other side seemed to be made of relatively ordinary devils. However, there was a table safe from the destruction at the corner of the room and one man was calmly drinking tea in the midst of the chaos.
A female devil, who happened to be the leader of one of opposing groups, started to speak with cold tone. She was a young woman around her late teens. She wears glasses and has a cold, sharp gaze. She was wearing a blue robe that exposed very little skin. "Zephyrdol, can you not help starting a fight at a place like this? Do you want to die? Do you really want to die? Even if I kill you, I won't be blamed by the people on top."
The leader of the group with goblin-like devils, Zephyrdol, replied with different kind of hostility. The leader was a man with lots of black magic-like tattoos on his face and on his upper body. He had blue hair that stands on its end. He was also wearing ornaments on his pants as they sounded to jingle and clank. "Hah! I'll say it again, bitch! I said that I'd teach you in one shot in a private room with great trouble! The Agares' lady really doesn't like being without her guards, now does she? Heh, is that why you're still a virgin who hasn't let a man come near her till now!? Geez, all the women of families of the Maous stink of virgins and are unbearable! That's why I said that I'd do a formal opening ceremony for you!"
"You think we should stop this?" Sairaorg asked Naruto turning his head to the blonde. Instead, he saw empty space. Naruto was already walking up to the hostile groups with confidence brimming with each step, "Let's see how you handle this Naruto-san," Sairaorg smirked.
"Well, well, well. How can it be so noisy here…?" everyone snapped their heads towards Naruto who nonchalantly stepped in. The fool's approach had become his favorite method when it came to these kinds of thing. "…Are you guys in heat or something?" Rias was about to stop her pawn, but she found Sairaorg put his hand in front of her, keeping her from interfering. Rias noted that Sairaorg's expression was that of expectation.
"And who the fuck are you!?" Zephyrdol asked with venom in his voice. The lady with glasses also stared at Naruto incredulously. Ignoring the tattooed man's question, Naruto continued his rant. "Listen here, men. If you guys want to fight you shouldn't do it half-assedly in this room. Instead, go all the way outside where you don't have to cost the manager for the things you've broken here."
"Hey! Answer me, you asshole!" Zephyrdol then lunged towards Naruto with his fist ready in a fit of rage. But Naruto did not seem to panic at all. "My name is Naruto Uzumaki…." Then he gave a bow, or rather, a head-butt right at the incoming fist. "Nice to meet you!"
CRACK!
The sound was heard when Naruto's forehead collided with Zephyrdol's punch. However, much to everyone's surprise, it was the latter who cried in pain as he pulled back his broken hand and took few steps back. Naruto on the other hand, not even a mark was seen on his forehead.
"Agh! You bastard…!" Zephyrdol was angered further by Naruto's head-butt, and began to use magic to retaliate. However, Sairaorg decided to step in as he immediately sent Zephyrdol flying towards a wall with a single straight punch.
Naruto blinked when he saw the wall where Zephyrdol flew turned into a crater from the sheer force of the impact. He turned around to see Sairaorg gave him a quick, approving smile and addressed the rest in the room, especially Zephyrdol's peerage who was growling in anger towards the well-built man.
"Devils of Glasya-Labolas, I won't tolerate anymore unsightly behaviour in this room. I suggest you should attend your master now, the important function will be starting soon, so make sure your master recovers first." The group of goblins noticed the point and immediately turned to look after their downed master. Then Sairaorg turned to address the lady with glasses. "Seekvaira, princess of Agares family. There's still time, put your make-up on again. It wouldn't do to attend the function while wearing something so bad."
The lady, Seekvaira, glanced at Naruto first with wary looks before she returned her gaze at Sairaorg, then she nodded and retreated towards her own peerage. After making sure that the situation had calmed down, Sairaorg then addressed his own peerage. "Call the staff. The hall is too messed up now, how can I be able to have tea with Rias like this?" then one of his peerage immediately left to fulfill the order. And then Naruto decided to do some small talk with Sairaorg and Seekvaira. Latter both also wondering about Naruto prowess. Well mainly Sairaorg. And few minutes later Sona Sitri peerage came into the room, as well as the employee from earlier showed up to announce that the next event was going to take place.
Sometime later
The room that the young Devils were all lead to had a strange atmosphere around it. There were seats placed in very high places, and in them were distinguished looking people which Naruto recognized instantly as the nobles who were dead set on holding him back.
Also there was the familiar face of Maou Sirzechs Lucifer. Beside him was Serafall Leviathan. She wasn't dressed as a magical girl this time but with formal dress. But the moment she saw Naruto, she gave him a small wave and wink. Naruto smiled and waved back in return. The other two Maou were sitting next to them smiling warmly at the next generation. Well, in Ajuka's case, the Maou just appeared to be as lazy as Naruto remembered him to be.
And then as one, the six young Devils moved forward by one step.
"Good, you have all gathered. In order to check the faces of you all, who will carry the burden of the next generation, you have been gathered here. This is also a meeting that is performed over a regular cycle, so we can ascertain the young Devils," an elderly male Devil spoke in a solemn voice while clasping his hands together.
"They seem to have fought right away though," this time a full mustached male devil said sarcastically. He was referring to the matter from before.
"You seven are all devils of the next generation that have pedigree and true ability that on objection can be raised against. That's why I want you to compete together before your debuts and increase your power this way," Sirzechs said this from his seat on the upmist level.
"Will we also eventually be sent out to battle against the [Khaos Brigade]?" Sairaorg asked that without hesitation. "I don't know. However, I don't want to send out young Devils if possible," Sirzechs answered as such.
"Why? Even if we are young, we carry part of the responsibilities of Devils. If we just receive kindness from out predecessors, even at this age and nothing is done . . ." Sairaorg raised his eyebrows in seeming incomprehension at the answer,
"Sairaorg, I acknowledge your bravery. However, I'd like to avoid sending you all who are still in the midst of growing, to the battlefield. Besides, it would be too great a loss if we lost the Devils of the next generation. I want you to understand. You are all more of a treasure to us than you think. That's why I want you to experience important things step by step and grow." Sirzechs explained.
Sairaorg muttered with a nod, "I understand," to Sirzechs' words. Sairoarg resigned to them. But, his expression seemed dissatisfied. After that, the difficult talk continued with different thing being said by different nobels and about the upcoming Ratin Games from the Maous.
"Now then, I apologize for keeping you here with his long talk. Well, we all see our dreams and hopes in you young ones. I want you to understand at least that. You are the treasures of the Underworld," everyone took to heart Sirzechs' words, "To finish things, will you let us hear your respective future goals?"
And then one by one young devils started to declare their future goals and Sairaorg stated that he wished to be a devil king and Naruto somehow impressed as the Bael heir sense of duty instead mere desire. As for other young devils including Rias Gremory's goals were rather… mundane compared to Sairaorg. Nevertheless, Naruto would definitely help his boss with his friends to be the top ranker in Rating Games and in future dethrone the eternal Rating Game champion , Diehauser Belial whose nicknamed ' The Emperor'.
But when he heard other noble devils mocked Sona Sitri goal, Naruto really disliked it. After all Sona ambition to build a Rating Game School that accepts all devils from all class and status, without discrimination. Even Saji had shown his passion and determination in supporting his master. However, the long-tradition of devils society would always make it hard for Sona's idea to come true, considering the devils were still strongly influenced by the traditionalists which made Naruto made mental note to prank stuck up devils in future. Then, thanks to Leviathan's interference in defence of her sister (much to the latter's embarrassment) and the Lucifer's as well, it was decided that a rating game would be held between Rias Gremory and Sona Sitri. And that concluded the meeting .
Later at Gremory residence
"I see, so it will be a showdown with the Sitri group." After the meeting, everyone had returned to the Gremory family's main residence. The one who had welcomed them there was Azazel. Everyone had gathered in the wide living room and given their teacher an account of the meeting from a short while ago.
"Naturally. I plan for you to start from tomorrow onwards. I've already considered each of your training menus." Said Azazel "But, is it okay for only us to receive advice from the Fallen Angel Governor? Isn't that foul play?" asked Rias
"Not really. I intend to give data to the various members of the devil side, you know? Also, the angel side is said to also be doing a backing-up system. The rest depends on the pride of the young devils themselves. If they think from the bottom of their hearts that they want to get stronger and raise their original duration, they'll take the help wholeheartedly." Explained Azazel
"Plus, I will be helping all of you training anyway" Naruto looked at them "Azazel-sensei could give the training's method to the one that have Sacred Gear while I will help Rias-chan and Akeno-chan training with their power."
"Thank you Naruto-sama" Akeno smiled to him, Rias nodded her head in understanding. Naruto knew that the black hair queen wouldn't feel comfortable with Azazel train her so he decide to step in, he had knew about all Rias' strength and weakness and was helping her improve all of them.
"It's to the extent that even my Vice-Governor is also giving advice to each of the families. Hahaha! Shemhaza's advice may even be more helpful than mine!" Azazel scratched his chin "Well, it's fine if we have Naruto-kun at our side, it would be a lot easier for all of us. Gather in the garden tomorrow morning. I'll give each of you your training methods then. Be ready."
[Yes!] All the club members responded to Azazel's words once more The door of the living room suddenly opened and Grayfia stepped in, she stood in front of everyone before saying "Everyone, the hot spring bath is ready."
Sometime later
Naruto, Yuuto and Azazel were immersing themselves inside the nice hot water of Gremory's hot spring that was modelled after the Japanese traditional hot spring. Azazel was humming a tune while soaking his twelve black wings. "Hahaha, now this is what I call life. Moreover, when it comes to the distinguished Gremory family's private hot spring, one of the best in the Underworld, a great spring is also a great spring."
As they soaked , Naruto noticed something, " By the way , where is Gasper?" Before anyone could have replied, Naruto then spotted the dhampir was loitering around the entrance from embarrassment. "Hey, Gasper! Don't just stand there and come in here!" Naruto rose out from the water and walked towards Gasper, who let out a shriek in return.
When Naruto got a good look on his junior, he furrowed his eyebrows slightly. "Gasper, why are you putting up your towel up to your chest?"
"It's-it's embarrassing…." Gasper turned away with flustered face. "Please don't look at me like that…"
"Why are you embarrassed? It's not like you have any boobs to hide from anyone!" Then Naruto proceeded to take Gasper's hand and throw him right into the water. "Man up and enjoy the spring!"
As soon as Gasper's entire body was dipped in the water, the boy let out a girlish scream as he tried to withstand the heat. "Nooooooooo! It's hoooooot! I'm meltiiiiiiing! Naruto-senpai is perverteeeeeeed!"
"Naruto, you can't sexually harass Gasper, you know?" Naruto then turned to the wall that divided the male and female baths where his master's voice could be heard from, followed by the other girls' giggles.
Naruto grumbled and just decided ignored the remark as he joined the other males back in the spring. And feeling enough Naruto going out as he really tired now.
Timeskip tomorrow morning.
The next day, everyone, clad in jerseys, gathered in the Gremory's residence large garden. Azazel, clad in jerseys as well, was reading several documents in his hands before he began to talk. "Let me say this first. What I'm going to tell you now is a training menu that focuses on things in the immediate future. There are people who produce good results immediately, but there are also those who have no choice but to look at things in the long run. However, you are all growing young people. Even if you mistake your direction, you will grow well. Now then, first is Rias, you."
Azazel turned his gaze to the Gremory heiress. "From the beginning, you have been a high-spec devil with everything, including talent, physical ability and magic power. Even if you live normally as you currently are, those traits will rise and you'll become a candidate for being a highest-grade devil when you become an adult. However, your wish is to become stronger than you would in that future, right?"
"Yes, I don't intend to lose to anyone." Rias nodded resolutely. She steeled her mind even harder when she remembered her defeat from Kokabiel. "Then, follow the training recorded on this sheet exactly, even all the way up to the battle day." Azazel gave Rias a piece of paper.
The girl looked over her training regiment and she turned back towards the Governor with puzzled looks. "…But, this training doesn't seem all that special, though?"
"You got it, basic training is fine for you. According to the data I got from your brother, you pretty much have collected everything. That's why your power can only be raised by basic practice. The problem is the quality of the King. Over time, the King seeks brains more than strength. You know that even if they're not good at magic, devils can climb to the top with a good head and cleverness, right? Learn all you can about the Rating Games until the deadline. Drive everything, from game documented images to documented data, into your head. What a King needs are the thought, quick-wittiness and judgment to defeat any kind of situation. It's your job to make sure that your group's servant devils can display their power to the fullest. However, also remember that, until the actual game, you won't be able to know what will happen. It's the same as a battlefield." Naruto mentally nodded when he heard Azazel program for Rias as that technically same like his program before.
Then Azazel carried on with the briefing. "Next is Akeno." "…Yes." The queen replied with rather sullen tone. Ignoring the tone Akeno had used to reply him, Azazel moved on. "You must accept the blood that flows within you."
Akeno's eyes widened slightly before she frowned. "…I can do just fine even if I don't depend on that kind of power." Naruto sighed. What Azazel said technically same as him months ago It was thanks to Naruto's idea for the training camp that Akeno managed to strengthen herself further, but in the end, Azazel had a valid point. The girl had to accept herself and move forward.
"Don't deny yourself. What will you do if you can't accept yourself? In the end, the only thing you can rely on is your own body, right? Denying yourself makes you weak. Accept everything about yourself, even the tough and painful things. Your weakness is your current self. Overcome it by the day of the battle. If not, you will become a mere obstruction in future battles. The Priestess of Thunder must become the Priestess of Lightning as well." Azazel concluded as he handed the paper. Akeno accepted the paper without any objection, albeit begrudgingly. It seemed the girl realized that she had just to suck it up.
Then Azazel moved on to Kiba Yuuto. "Next is Kiba. First, you must maintain Balance Breaker for a full day. If you get used to it, you'll be able to maintain it for a full day in your actual battle form. Your objective is to continue that and to become able to maintain that state for the length of a day. After that, you'll be able to become sufficiently strong by doing basic training like Rias. I'll teach you man-to-man how to handle sword-type Sacred Gears later." When Azazel gave Yuuto his training regiment, the former seemed to remember another thing. "By the way, I heard you'll train under your teacher again for the sword training?" "Yes, I plan to be taught from scratch again." Yuuto confirmed as he took the paper.
Then Azazel moved to the other knight of the group. "For Xenovia, To be able to use Durandal better than you do now…you need to be able to use another holy sword." Xenovia blinked at the mention of another holy sword as she received her own paper. "Another holy sword?" "Don't worry, I'll take care of that." Azazel smirked in return. "Next is Gasper."
"Y-Yes!" Gasper replied nervously. Azazel only sighed at the attitude. "Don't be so frightened. Your biggest obstacle is that fear. You need to train your mind and body that fears everything from scratch. From the start, the specs with your bloodline and your Sacred Gear are substantial. Skill improvement of your bishop special characteristics and your magic will also support you greatly. Since I've constructed an exclusive 'Hikikomori Escape Plan' program, you must first put on a proper attitude as much as possible. Even if going out in public entirely is impossible for you, make sure that your movements aren't dull." "Yeeeeeeeeeeeees! I'll try to obtain a spirit that goes for broke!"
"Next is Koneko." Azazel proceeded to the rook. "You have nothing to be criticised about, as you possess the elementary traits of offence and defence as a Rook. Your physical ability is also not a problem. However, there are those better at offence in Rias' group than a Rook like you, namely Naruto, Kiba and Xenovia. Naruto and Kiba already have their brutal Sacred Gears with their Balance Breakers in tow and Xenovia has her Durandal."
"…Yes, I know." Koneko replied with frustrated tone which made Naruto sighed. "Your case is similar with Akeno. You need to release the power you've personally sealed. If you don't accept yourself, big growth won't be possible for you." Koneko only took her paper from Azazel without a word.
Naruto finally found out what Azazel said, technically almost same from what he said when he train to fight Riser peerage well now said Phenex already mere memory so no need to discuss it further.
"As for Naruto. I don't know about your training so I asked someone else to help your training. " Said Azazel before he suddenly sensed something and looked up at the sky. "Ah, he's here." Everyone followed Azazel's gaze towards the sky and all eyes were widened at the sight of a gigantic, purple western dragon, about fifteen meters tall.
Naruto grinned at said dragon while the being stared at Azazel, "Azazel… You sure have some nerve openly entering devil territory." The dragon said with booming, yet calm voice.
"Hah, I've properly gotten the personal permission of the devil king and have entered this territory fairly, you know?" Azazel shrugged despite the intimidating figure before him. "And Tannin, I believe he's the one you've been looking forward to meet." The fallen angel pointed his thumb at Naruto who only blinked in confusion. "Naruto, let me introduce you the Blaze Meteor Dragon Tannin, he's formerly one of Six Great Dragon Kings now Five, and currently a reincarnated, ultimate-class devil. And Tannin, this guy is Naruto Uzumaki, the current Red Dragon Emperor."
Tannin then approached Naruto and said, "Ddraig, are you there? Can you hear me?" Tannin then asked. The green glow appeared again from Naruto's left hand and the Welsh Dragon replied. [Yeah. It's been a while, Tannin]
"Wait, so you two know each other?" Naruto asked, looking around between Tannin and his hand. [Yes. As Azazel has said, there was originally Six Great Dragon Kings, with Tannin as one of them before he turned into a devil, making six dragon kings into five. This guy is the same one recorded in the bible.]
"Tannin here has volunteered himself to send you to your training grounds." Azazel spoke, causing Naruto to look at Tannin. Tannin then motioned Naruto to hop on the back and Naruto do as the dragon said.
"The training period is about 20 days in human world time. I expect everyone to make improvements by then. And Naruto!" Azazel called out as Tannin stood up in preparation of departure. The former tossed something at Naruto who caught it and saw a ring. "That ring is to seal your Sacred Gear and you are to put it on for the first 10 days. In other words, you're not allowed to use Boosted Gear for that period of time."
Naruto just stared blandly at Azazel and decided to put said ring on his middle finger. However, the boy was still a bit curious about the thing.
"Ddraig, can you still hear me?" our blond hero asked in his mindscape. [Yeah… I can hear you just fine. But that ring from Azazel really works. There are bunch of seals appeared here and you won't be able to use my power unless the ring is removed. Are you sure about this?]
"Yeah, I guess I can vaguely tell the purpose of this training method. Sorry, Ddraig. For the time being you'll have to stay put until further notice." [Nah, that's fine. Then I guess I'll just go to sleep. Make sure to go out there and kick some ass, partner] then Ddraig went to slumber.
"Well then, everyone! I'll be going for a while!" Naruto then turned to his friends. "Naruto, do your best!" Rias cheered his pawn while giving a thumbs-up. The others also gave him cheers and words of encouragement. "Yeah, good luck to you guys too!" Naruto replied "After 10 days, you can take off that ring and you'll receive the next instruction! Just do your best to stay alive!" Azazel sent his last words. "Well, let's be off!" Tannin roared and finally took off, leaving the rest of devils and the fallen angel towards the sky.
When Naruto and Tannin were out of sight, Rias then turned to Azazel. "By the way, Azazel, where is Tannin taking Naruto to?" Azazel only smirked at the question, and when he replied the details regarding the venue etc., Rias' face suddenly went pale as well as the others, sans Asia and Xenovia who looked confused and worried at the same time.
"Wha-! Are you out of your mind!? Why would you send my Naruto to a place like that!?" Rias asked furiously. "Relax. You know how tough that guy is, training in that place won't be enough to kill him. Besides, I already paid that guy to supervise him, so it's going to be fine. Don't worry." Rias was about to retort, but she finally let out a deep sigh and she gazed towards the direction where Tannin had flew to with worried eyes.
Back to Naruto and Tannin.
"So, you actually just supervise me , not train me?" Asked Naruto as he jumped back from Tannin back and the dragon replied, " That's right. The reason I escorting you so we can go to deeper part of said place. And all you have to do Is simple. Just survive . And my job here is over. So I'm leaving." Tannin then turned around and leave
Once Tannin leave, Naruto going to strolling around. He suddenly remembered as Tannin told him that place was actually the deepest and isolated part of Forest of Familiars which called forbidden forest. While he strolling around Naruto muttered to himself, " I just hope I'm not get bored quickly then." And he still walking through the forest.
Scene change
Back at the Gremory residence, it had been few minutes after Naruto had taken off somewhere by the former dragon king Tannin. As the others were donning worried looks at the direction where Naruto had gone to Xenovia had no idea what was going on. The former exorcist then turned to her master. "Um, buchou-san… Where is Naruto going to, exactly?"
Rias grimaced slightly at the thought of Naruto's training venue. "We call that place as Forbidden Forest, the deepest and most secluded part of the Forest of Familiars. That place has been deemed as extremely dangerous because that place is the habitat of the most fearsome creatures and monsters of olds that cannot be tamed into familiars."
The former church member widened their eyes in worry at the revelation. "Monsters of old? How strong are they?" Xenovia asked. "Well, they can give even an ultimate-class devil a run for their money…" replied Rias grimly
"Then, that's too dangerous even for Naruto!" Xenovia then shot a look towards Azazel, who had already gone elsewhere. "I know. So far only ultimate-class devils are allowed to venture inside the forbidden forest. Let's just hope he can make it for the next 20 days. Have faith in them." Rias said as she closed her eyes in resignation.
Meanwhile with Naruto.
Naruto just grumbled as he just annihilated a group of truck sized spiders, " Seriously? They said this place extremely dangerous!? Actually that place just merely above Forest of Death.! AND I WILL DO THIS FOR ALMOST THREE WEEKS? DAMN IT!" Naruto the keep ranted as he finished and said to himself, " I hope Rias and others also doing good, if not. I will made them work harder than when they train against certain birdy months ago."
As Naruto keep attacking to survive relentless ambush from forest natives suddenly he felt his head hit by something so hard. And that actually was some kind of bag. Wondering something, Naruto picked up the bag and decided to made quick retreat as he need safe place to check the content and he already knew that bag contain something will help him.
When he finally reach safe place, Naruto quickly checked the content of bag and saw bandages, disinfectant, other tools for first aid, and several familiar-looking vials. "Phoenix Tears…?" Naruto recognized the vials from the rating game with Phenex. "Well, I don't really needed that. But I will keep it for myself and whoever gave that , thanks so much." Naruto then continued his survival at Forbidden Forest.
Time skip days later
Days went by, and on the seventh day, Azazel teleported himself to the clearing where Naruto's campsite was supposed to be. When Azazel set foot on the clearing, the man found the boy was sitting in front of a bonfire, with several large skeletons and bones littering around. The boy himself aside scratch and torn in his clothes, look fine and currently doing a squat while the bonfire was roasting a large chunk of meat. What meat it was, Azazel could only guess by looking around.
"'Sup, Naruto. How's it going?"
"Naruto quickly stopped his exercise and he walked approaching the unsuspecting fallen angel.
SMACK!
Then, much to Azazel's surprise, Naruto suddenly punched his cheek and the fallen angel was knocked back to the unforgiving ground. "Ouch…." Azazel tried to get back on his feet while massaging his swollen cheek. "What the hell was that for?" At the same time, the fallen angel also felt a sense of déjà vu.
"Care to explain, old man? I think I will tutored by Tannin instead I must survive in this place. While this is good place, I don't think I made progress you know!" Naruto berated certain fallen.
Then the fallen angel held up his hands. "Alright, alright. I get that you're pissed and all, but I give you my word that everything is under control. So let's just focus on getting stronger, okay? By the way, I brought some lunch made by Rias here, wanna have a taste or not?" Azazel raised a lunchbox wrapped in cloth. Naruto stared at the lunchbox for a moment before he quickly snatched it away and proceeded to the seat near the fire.
The boy opened the lunchbox and found some rice-balls with oolong tea in the thermos. He took a bite, and one would see his eyes sparkled. "Whoa, this is good!" Naruto's expression brightened up as he kept eating the rest of the meal.
Azazel chuckled at Naruto's reaction as he proceeded to take a seat for himself. "Glad that you like it. Not only Rias, Akeno also contributed during her spare time to make those. Man, could've sworn that the kitchen turned into a warzone that day."
Naruto then imagined the girls fighting each other at the prospect of making him lunch but quickly shook his head to erase the mental image. Then Azazel spoke again as he scanned his eyes on Naruto's body. "Hmm… I see that you have improved over these few days. Your reserves had increased compared the last time… How's this place been treating you? The place that had been deemed as one of the most dangerous places that the underworld has to offer?"
"The inhabitants in this place were really welcoming when I arrived at this place." Naruto said with obvious sarcasm in his explanation. "I can see that, indeed." Azazel nodded. "How much of the supplies do you have left?"
"Probably still more than a half. There's still the Phoenix Tears, so I don't need to worry much about injury as long as I can keep them safe with me." "How many Phoenix Tears have you used over this past five days?" Azazel enquired further.
"For now only use one vial, so don't worry about that." Said Naruto as he inwardly grinned, ' I will keep Phoenix Tears for myself since I know this supplies come from you.'
"Hmm…. That's not a bad start, I guess." Azazel nodded. "Just make sure to use those tears wisely. It cost me quite a fortune to prepare those tears to keep you alive for the entire training. "
Naruto swallowed his food. "Thanks, and uh… May I know how much each of this vial cost you?"
Azazel pursed his lips for a second. "You… probably don't need to know."
Both of them get silent for abit until, Naruto break the ice, " Well, how are the others doing?"
"The others are doing well so far…" Then Azazel's expression became grim. "But there's a problem with Koneko."
"What's wrong with Koneko-chan?" Naruto asked, not liking the way the conversation was heading.
"She overdid the training I gave her. And she just collapsed this morning."
"Wait, wha-!?" Then Naruto shook his head a bit to clear his mind for better concerns to ask about. "How's she doing now?"
"Well… No visible injuries, but she's basically almost exhausted herself to death. Koneko is still resting right now." Azazel explained before asking again. "Do you want to check up on her?" Seeing a nod from the boy, Azazel stood up. "Good, because I'm also here by someone's request to take you back just this once, come on."
"Wait, on whose orders?" Naruto asked as he stood up, preparing himself to go back.
"Rias' mother, Venelana Gremory." Then both men disappeared as Azazel teleported themselves away.
Sometime later
The sound of footsteps and music were heard from the annex that was detached from the Gremory clan's main residence.
"Yes, turn there. Good…. No, no, Naruto-san. You need to match your steps with your partner after the turn. Your movements looked awkward now." Venelana Gremory instructed as she and Naruto(with a new set of clothes) were glued to each other and danced across the floor.
"Ah, sorry. Can we try again?" The woman nodded at Naruto's request and the two began dancing again. As soon as Narutoarrived at the annex with Azazel, Venelana immediately led Narutoto have a dancing lesson.
The two began followed the rhythm of the music as they took the steps, and Venelana's smile grew in approval. "Yes, now that's better. Keep it up!"
The two finally stopped dancing as the music stopped playing as well. "Now, shall we take a short break?"
After Venelana gave her permission for Naruto to take a rest, the boy took a seat on the chair and let out a breath. The dancing lesson for Naruto was tiring in its own right, but the boy believed that what he was doing at the moment was better than being chased around by hideous creatures wanting to eat him.
"I must admit, Naruto-san… I'm impressed that you managed to survive living in the Forbidden Forest" Venelana voiced her opinion as she scanned on Naruto's bandaged limbs. "Shall I call our healer to take a look at your wounds?"
"No, thank you, ma'am." Naruto refused politely as he was flattered by Venelana's praise. "There's no need to worry. These injuries will heal in another day or two."
Venelana nodded in consent, Naruto then took a sip of his drink as the two fell into another comfortable silence.
"Excuse me, Venelana-sama…" Naruto then wanted to ask a question.
"Yes, what is it?"
"Why am I doing this dancing practice? Not that I mind, but did Kiba and Gasper also receive this sort of lesson?"
Venelana nodded at Naruto's question. "Kiba Yuuto-san has already mastered these sorts of techniques, as expected of a Knight. Gasper-san is a member of a distinguished vampire family. He may behave unreliably, but he at least knows etiquette. The problem is Naruto-san. It can't be helped that you're a commoner from the human world, but even so it's troubling if you don't acquire etiquette beyond a certain level. Because you'll also have to make an appearance with Rias in high society eventually, you have to remember customary practices even a little during your stay in the Underworld."
Naruto processed Venelana's reasoning for a second. "So I have to make an appearance with Rias-sama in high society in future ?"
At Naruto's shock, Venelana shifted her gaze to the side and she hid her smile with one of her hands. "…Oops, I carelessly let something slip out. That kind of thing is still talk of possibilities. Leaving that aside, I see that you addressed your master by her name just now."
Naruto's eyes widened slightly and his face became flustered. "Oh, ah, err… Sorry. Should I address her differently?"
"No need to be nervous, Naruto-san…" Venelana's smile grew wider slightly. "In fact, you should address her that way since this place isn't school. Since, Rias is… Oops, I almost let something slip up again."
Naruto sweatdropped when he heard that but ignored as he said, "I see…. I understand."
"Yes, and you can also address her as 'master'. Though… I think you should address her differently in private as well."
Naruto just nodded, " Already done that as I'm not really to formality anyway."
Venelana clapped her hands, " Wonderful! It seems I just worry too much about your relationship with Rias, Naruto-san."
Both then decided to continue their dancing lesson for time being before Naruto decided to ask something, "Venelana-sama , can I ask question?" Venelana just nodded and Naruto asked "Koneko-chan… Is she alright?"
"…Yes. It was just ordinary overworking, so she should recover slowly if she rests her body for one or two days."
"I see…" Naruto turned to the ground, his eyes looked rather solemn. "I… I'm very worried about Koneko-chan. She's been acting weird since we got here…"
"That girl is doing her best to face her own existence and power right now. It's a difficult problem. However, she won't be able to advance forward if she doesn't find the answer herself." Venelana replied with more or less the same solemn tone. Naruto actually knew what Venelana mean but he pretending confused as he asked again, "Her existence and power?"
"…Now that I think of it, you haven't been part of Rias' group for long. I guess it's only natural that you don't know. Very well, I'll tell you a little."
Thus Venelana began her story about two cat sisters. Being orphaned since childhood, the two sisters were inseparable as they did everything together. They played together, they ate together, and they slept together. Having no home to return to and no one to rely on, the two cats struggled to live day to day while depending on each other.
One day, the two sisters were scouted by a certain high-class devil and the elder sister was reincarnated into the group as a Bishop. The elder sister was given the privilege to bring her little sister as well so the two could remain together. Having finally obtained a decent life, the two of them believed that they could pass time happily.
However, those happy times began to end as the elder cat sister appeared to achieve a rapid growth after gaining power. The elder sister's talent began to overflow by becoming a reincarnated devil. Apparently, the cat sisters were of a species that naturally excels in Youjutsu. Furthermore, she also bloomed in magic talent, and even invoked Senjutsu that was said only the last of the Sennin could use.
And when the story took a darker turn where the elder cat sister, having surpassed her master in a short time, was swallowed by power and was transformed into a wicked existence that only sought blood and battle. She killed her master, became a stray devil and managed to kill all her pursuers during her escape, thus the elder cat sister became one of the Underworld's most wanted.
Naruto clenched his fist when he found that the little cat sister, who remained behind, was deemed as a liability by other high-class devils. To make matters worse, the devils chose to sentence the little sister to death in hope of preventing the little sister from going rogue like the elder sister did. When the little sister was at the brink of collapse and despair due to betrayal by her sister, torture and interrogation by the devils, Sirzechs Lucifer came and saved the little cat sister from execution. Fortunately, after Sirzechs left the little cat sister under the care of Rias Gremory, the cat recovered her emotions little by little. As the time went by, Rias gave the cat a name – Koneko.
When Venelana finished , Naruto just grumbled, ' It seems Kuroka and Devils have different point of view but nevertheless , that was more reason for me to avenge Nekoshou tribe. Well, he will pay of visit to Koneko once his lesson with Venelana over and it won't took longer after all.
To be continued
