Hashire Sori yo, Kaze no you ni, Tsukimihara wo, PADORU PADORU
Author's Notes: Welcome back everyone! Hope you're staying safe! This was going to be one huge chapter, but I decided to split it in order to get this out soon for you all. Also me finally binging Shokugeki no Soma Season 5 a couple weeks ago affected this chapter while I was writing it as well. Enjoy!
And if you haven't checked it out yet, Amenoosa fulfilled a picture commission for this story, and it serve as the new fic cover. You can find it on DeviantArt page as 'Le Fox Den'.
Finally, new story incoming before the year is up!
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, Taimanin Asagi, Food Wars, or any other crossover that'll appear.
Special thanks to Lucius Walker and NouthSouthGorem for the beta-reading. Besure to check out their stuff!
Chapter 04 - Major Confrontations
[Le Fox Den, Saturday evening]
The restaurant was buzzing with anticipation as the sun fell. A Shougeki was about to take place at Le Fox Den, with the famous cook-off being between its Line Chef Warden Gamsei and the infamous underground chef Saiba Asahi. Both chefs were trained by the very best, Gamsei with Gordon Ramsey, and Asahi with Sōma's father, Yukihira Jōichirō. The Shokugeki match of such caliber and pedigree attracted the whos whos of VIPs in the world of cuisine.
How the word got out was a mystery, but the employees of the restaurant suspected that Azami had something to do with the news spreading like wildfire, hence the restaurant being booked to capacity, and everyone working like crazy. They were never more thankful than ever for the fact that their boss Naruto had hired enough people to accommodate everyone inside and outside.
Speaking of Naruto, he was currently looking through the window of his office, taking in the sight of his bustling restaurant. No Shokugeki was going to halt operations in his place of business, since there are still hungry people waiting to be fed. He had the Shokugeki area planted in the middle of the first floor in the front area, placed in a way that not a seat was sacrificed. Of course, there was enough space around the zone so that the participants won't be distracted.
But the Shokugeki was far from his mind, since he believed in Gamsei's cooking spirit and skill to get the job done. No, his mind was racing from the fact that tonight was also his long-awaited meeting with Edwin Black, the master of those orcs that invaded his restaurant to capture the Taimanin his wives nursed back to health. Since Edwin was a so-called vampire, according to Kaguya, Naruto was going to be on guard. Despite the restaurant being packed, Naruto wasn't going to leave anything to chance. It may be a neutral meeting, but Naruto has yet to see how Black was a "noble demon".
"This will be a night to remember, eh Boss?" Gamsei asked, standing next to Naruto with his arms behind his back. "You got the vampire, and I got the Noir tosser. Think the pale-fucker will finally give in to accepting your Shokugeki challenge?"
"Keh, he'll have no choice, dattebayo. Between this and Totsuki falling apart, he'll come crawling to take me on in a misguided attempt to restore his grand plan. Not that it'll matter, since people are now seeing him for the food nazi he is." Naruto said with a smirk. "Well well, there he is now," he said, seeing the said food nazi entering the restaurant with what remains of Central.
"The Gourmet Nazi and his fucking posse," Gamsei grinned. "How ironic that his son was trained by his beloved senpai, eh? Didn't see that coming when we asked the others…"
"Yet he has a skill that allowed him to mimic any chef's cooking ability by inheriting their knife. How he got is a mystery just like the origins of the God Tongue." Naruto muttered and hummed in thought. "Funny enough, those skills are on par with a Kekkei Genkai."
Gamsei nodded. "Speaking of the God Tongue, how is Erina's training going in controlling it?"
"Baby steps, Gamsei. I think I found what makes the God Tongue tick through the seals I placed on her. It's not biological, so that's a start." Naruto said with a shrug. "It's just a superhuman level Skill. An uncontrollable one at that. Whatever Azami did to nurture it failed spectacularly. Erina has a right to consume food without the God Tongue getting in the way."
"Amen to that," Gamsei huffed, scowling as Azami and the others took their seats upstairs. "Wait a minute, that's… oh ho ho ho boy."
"What's up?" Naruto asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Let's just say that Azami-teme's going to have some interesting company during the Shokugeki…" he replied with a killer grin.
Naruto chortled at that. "Shit, now I want to hold off my meeting to see it go down."
"I'm sure your ladies will tell you all about it after tonight." Gamsei said, patting the blond on the back. "By the way, no suit?"
"What are you talking about?" Naruto asked, tugging at the collars of his chef uniform. "You know damn well this is my suit."
[Elsewhere]
On a rooftop across from the restaurant was a woman with long dark-blue hair and teal eyes. She was wearing a purple, specialized skin-tight ninja suit with silver accents that showed all her curves, and a sword holstered on her back.
She was the feared and infamous Taimanin Igawa Asagi; leader of the Taimanin, and the strongest of them all.
"Asagi here. I'm in position," she stated, putting a finger to her ear. "How about you?"
"Great news, nee-san. I managed to nab a spot for working in the VIP section. I'll be close enough to hear what the Boss and Black are saying!"
"Good, Sakura. And Mizuki-senpai?"
"While I'm not in the VIP section, I do have a clear view of the VIP section where the two might might be sitting. The people will be distracted by this…Shokugeki, so it'll be easy to pull your sister out should things get hairy."
"Thank you for helping us with this."
"No problem. I always wanted to come here. I was so busy with missions that I never had the time. Your mission gave me the perfect excuse to do so."
"Right. Please just keep an eye out."
"Are you sure this is a good idea, nee-san? Boss is a good person, and treats his employees like family, including me. I doubt he's a wolf in sheep's clothing. I mean, he did save you when you needed it."
"Like I said, I don't find Naruto-san suspicious at all. I'm just worried about him being so close to Black and being influenced by him," Asagi said while looking through binoculars. "Speaking of Black, I see him and his guard- oh no…"
"What is it, Asagi?"
"Black's plus twos. It's Hell Knight Ingrid and…" Asagi gasped in horror, seeing a familiar mop of pink hair. "Oboro?!"
"What?! Oboro?! How's that possible?! I watched you kill her after what she did to us!"
"Apparently I didn't kill her enough," Asagi growled, gripping her binoculars tightly. "Still, Oboro and Ingrid. This isn't good."
"I advise Sakura to pull back. If she gets spotted by Oboro, it might cause trouble for Uzumaki-san."
"Don't worry, Mizuki-senpai. I'll just keep out of sight- oops, I'm being called over for an order. I gotta go!"
"Sakura! Dammit!"
"Leave her, Asagi. If what she says is true, then she'll be fine. I'm here after all. Just watch your surroundings."
Asagi sighed. "Yes, senpai…"
[Le Fox Den]
Kushina navigated her way through tables and people on the first floor. As the General Manager, she made sure that the staff and servers kept things in order. Those in the culinary world were excited for the main event to come, while the other customers were simply curious about the major buzz going on. Of course, Kushina was glad that Naruto took her advice on installing a security- er, asset protection department for the restaurant, run by Mitarashi Anko. To that end, she had the department disguised as regulars so that they could end a conflict or incident on the spot.
"Oy, Kushina-sensei. We just tagged a person of interest." Anko informed her. "You're near her now: a woman with boobs that's giving Tsunade-sama and Samui-chan a run for their money."
Kushina looked around and spotted a woman that fit the description, who was currently drinking a glass of wine. Said woman was very beautiful with brown hair, red eyes, and a very curvaceous and erotic body with huge breasts that puts Tsunade's own body to shame. Kushina's eyes twitched, seeing that the woman's choice of attire left little to imagination; a silver party dress that drooped in the front to show off a mouthwatering amount of cleavage, side-boobs, and legs, complete with silver heels.
"Another show-off, except…" Kushina frowned before quickly looking away when the woman turned her head towards her. "Her posture says otherwise…she's got fighting experience and is waiting for someone."
"She must be one of those Taimanin we guessed might be showing up. I knew that Sakura girl would blab on us."
"It was to be expected. She's a Taimanin outside of working here. I'll have to make her schedule more flexible. If they're here, then there must be more outside."
"I'll send the Sound girls to patrol the perimeter. It may be a neutral meeting, but it's best to not leave anything to chance."
"Atta girl, Anko-chan. Gotta go. Keep me posted." Kushina said as a host waved her down.
"Uzumaki-san," the host greeted her as she got close. "Here is the Ramsey family…"
Kushina nodded towards the family. "Nice to finally meet you, Ramsey-san. I am Uzumaki Kushina, General Manager of Le Fox Den."
"Gordon Ramsey, a pleasure," the famous chef greeted back, shaking her hand firmly, "I was going to be by myself, but my wife and daughter wanted to come to support Warden alongside me."
"It's an honor for you all to finally visit. Come, I'll lead you to the best seats in the house."
"I have to say, it's quite amazing that you can accommodate so many people here." Gordon said as they walked up the stairs. "Your boss has thought of everything and made it a reality."
"Yup," Kushina nodded happily. "I'm proud of my son for making his dream a reality."
"Your son, eh? That's impressive, especially with our boys working together." Gordon said.
They arrived upstairs, where Kushina led them to their seats. When they were close, Kushina raised an eyebrow. 'Well, this is one hell of a coincidence. Should be entertaining,' she thought, seeing Azami and his Central students, with the latter group widening their eyes at them approaching.
'That's…Gordon Ramsey?!' Azami thought, trying hard not to react. 'Why here!?'
"Here is your seat," Kushina said as the Ramsey family sat at the appropriate table. "A waiter will be here shortly for you all."
"Thank you, ma'am." Gordon replied, with Kushina smiling and walking away.
"So, Gordon Ramsey. A pleasure to meet you." Azami greeted him. "Your reputation precedes you."
"Likewise, Azami Nakiri." Gordon greeted him. "I heard of your desire to make a gourmet paradise. Is that correct?"
"You assume correctly. Why?"
"...A paradise like that won't last long. It's something to think about as our boys do battle…" Gordon said, before his table's server rushed over.
[Le Fox Den; Office]
"Well, I better get ready. Show's about to start." Gamsei said, and fist-bumped Naruto. "Good luck in your own battle, Chief. Try not to punch him out the window like you did Nakamura."
"I know, I know. I'll reign in my temper," Naruto grumbled, making Gamsei chuckle. "Go kick ass, Gamsei."
Gamsei gave a mock salute and left.
"So, bets on Gamsei-senpai taking the whole thing?"
Naruto snorted and looked over to see Ino and a grinning Rindō on the sofa in his office, the two already being inside as Naruto and Gamsei were talking.
"It's best not to underestimate Asahi. Remember, the same skill chefs he took down now works for me. They're really good, and the only reason he won against him is that strange Sharingan-esque cooking skill of his," Naruto told the redhead. "I mean, I'm sure you've seen first hand what he can do, right?"
Rindō nodded. "Yup. After the others mopped the floor with us Central, Asahi appeared with his knives and took Sōma-chan and the others out one by one. As much as I hate to admit it, it was amazing to see. He didn't even break a sweat."
"I have to agree with Rindō-shoujo. Even a feat like that is impressive."
Senzaemon entered the office, with Naruto nodding to him.
"So I've heard. His Cross Knives ability is…intriguing to say the least," Naruto replied with a grimace.
"Since Nakamura didn't have it, maybe his mother did?" Ino said thoughtfully. "From how Cross Knives was described, it definitely sounds like some kind of ninja skill. Maybe his mother came from the Elemental Countries? Or some other kind of ninja clan?"
Naruto shrugged. "Doesn't matter. Gamsei is more than capable of taking him down. Asahi relying on a copycat skill like Cross Knives gives him one hell of a glaring weakness. It's why he'll lose."
"It'll be up to the judges, for they'll be a factor for sure," Senzaemon warned him.
Naruto growled at that. "If they're paid off, then it's their reputation on the line."
"No, it's not them that I'm worried about," Senzaemon assured him, shaking his head. "They all know better to take bribes for something like this. But one of them in particular I'm concerned about the most because of her…condition. She's not one of the judges, but she's the head Bookmaster of the WGO."
"Meh, Gamsei's cooking will speak for itself once it's set on the panel's table. Don't underestimate me, and don't underestimate Gamsei-"
"Naruto, I think he's here!" Anko's voice suddenly crackled through his comm. "And he's not being subtle!"
Naruto put a finger to his ear and looked out the glass window. His eyes flitting around the restaurant, he saw a trio that stood out from the massive crowd. From the description that the dying orc gave Anko, Naruto recognized the man in the middle.
The man in question had slicked-back silver hair, gray eyes, a tall, muscular frame, and was wearing a business suit with a blue tie, white dress vest, a black trenchcoat with a red collar, and a red scarf that was shredded at the ends. He wasn't alone, with two ladies flanking him from either side.
The first was a woman with short pink hair in a bob-cut and violet eyes, a slender frame, red lipstick on her lips, medium-sized breasts, and wearing a luxurious blood-red strapless dress with a V-cut that showed off her cleavage. However, the bloodthirsty smile she had on her face was a turn-off, with many people avoiding her eyes.
The second woman was a far-cry from the first, having long pink hair, yellow eyes, a sexy, exotic figure with dark skin, and was wearing a tight, black club-style dress, with a single strap on her shoulder holding together two other straps around her chest, only showing her underboob and her belly. Unlike her companion, she had a gentle face, yet with a sharp look.
"Well, Black does look like a vampire, I'll give him that. Not liking the one hanging off his arm with that nasty look on her face, though," Naruto mused. "The other lady seems nicer. No matter," he adjusted his collar. "Showtime."
"Be careful, Naruto," Ino warned him. "Since he has those perverted orcs in his employ, there's no way he can be trusted."
"I know, Ino-chan. I'm just going to get a read on him, and show him where the line lies…" Naruto said as he walked to the door. He then stopped and turned to Senzaemon. "It's quite a coincidence, Senzaemon-jichan."
Senzaemon looked confused. "Hmm?"
"All those talented young chefs you put into my employ; so lively, and full of limitless potential. Funny how almost all of them are close to Erina-chan's age. Funny how most of them are in the same year." Naruto mused, turning to smirk at a surprised Senzaemon. "Is this some kind of grand plan you cooked up for the benefit of your granddaughter…and your daughter?"
He jerked his thumb towards the up of the stairs leading up to the second that was partially taken up by a podium, and placed directly below his office. There were curtains around the square stage that hid the identity of the one behind it, with an attendant in front of it.
Senzaemon eyes widened in shock, before he sighed. "You truly are as much of a ninja as you are a chef, Naruto-shounen. I take it that you know."
"I knew it the moment I learned about Erina-chan and the God Tongue she inherited from her mother, who was quite easy to track down, and had that place rented out for the night." Naruto said, scratching his temple with a finger. "That and I may have stuck into your personal library in Tōtsuki."
"As usual, you always have the gall to admit crimes in the face of authority." Senzaemon noted with a tick mark, before relaxing. "But Naruto-shounen…"
Naruto gave a cheesy grin before turning serious again. "Gamsei and I never cared about the God Tongue, and I knew it was a curse considering how insufferable Erina-chan was when we first met. Your family's God Tongue means nothing to us, but I will do everything in my power to help Erina-chan control it, and save her and her mother from the storm of despair." he said before leaving. "You can believe that."
(Kushina)
"Let's see. Edwin Black, I presume?" Kushina asked the next man in line, who was accompanied by two women by his side.
"That's correct," Edwin nodded, subtly giving her voluptuous form a once over. "Miss?"
"Uzumaki Kushina," she replied flatly, eyeing the women on either side of him. "And your plus two?"
"My assistant, Oboro, and my right-hand woman, Ingrid," Edwin introduced them.
"All right then. Please follow me." Kushina said, leading the way.
"I can't help but notice that you have the same surname as the owner," Edwin noted in curiosity as Kushina led them upstairs. "Are you related in any way, or…?"
He stopped when Kushina stopped in her track and shot him an evil glare, her irises turning red and her pupil thinning into slits. Her guests were taken aback by the sheer killing intent she was leaking out, thankfully masked around them by the excitement in the air.
"I am not available for questioning, Black-san," she said, her voice icy behind a veneer of politeness. "The Boss will answer all of your inquiries. I will not."
"Why the sudden hostility?" Edwin asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh, I think you know, Black-san. Your subordinates' mouths left much to be desired," Kushina growled, before continuing to head up the stairs.
"You must have a death wish for insulting Black-sama!" Oboro growled at the redhead.
Kushina side-eyed her. "If you're going to be a problem, you can stay outside," she growled back.
"Oboro, behave," Ingrid interjected sternly.
They finally made upstairs to the VIP section, where Naruto was waiting. He turned around to see his mother leading Edwin Black and his women making their way towards him. He grimaced when he saw Kushina's eyes like a fox, with her looking ready to attack at any moment.
"Thank you, Kushina-san." Naruto said, standing up from his chair. "Can you get us a server?"
"Of course, Boss," Kushina said, giving a short bow before walking away.
There was no way Naruto and Kushina were going to completely give away their family connection in front of the obvious enemy. Looking back, they should've taken care to change their last names to avoid these kinds of scenarios.
Naruto nodded and turned his attention to his guest. "Edwin Black, I presume?"
"And you're Uzumaki Naruto."
They shook hands, their respective grips strong as steel.
From those observing from the sidelines, it would seem like the owner of the restaurant was just greeting another patron, but to those who have lived a life surrounded by war and death, this was a meeting of two predators meeting in home territory.
Naruto kept a straight face, but his eyes warned the other of pain and death should he misbehave. Almost in contrast, Edwin's eyes had a look of calm, but deadly confidence, his aura full of playful, chaotic danger, akin to a wild animal that could strike at any moment.
After what seemed like a minute, they each let go simultaneously.
"Welcome to Le Fox Den. Please, have a seat," Naruto offered as he took his own. "May I also ask the names of your ladies?"
"My Enforcers," Edwin introduced, sitting down with the others, "Oboro and Ingrid. What about your guest?" he said, gesturing to the empty seat next to Naruto.
"They will be around shortly. They don't care much for the festivities below us." Naruto shrugged with a fanged smile. "Now, let's get down to business, dattebayo."
…
As Kushina walked away, she took a few breaths to calm herself down. She could tell just from being near Edwin Black that he was bad news. Very bad news.
His aura told her he was not human, and neither was his bodyguards. There was something about Oboro especially that rubbed her the wrong way. Out of the three of them, Ingrid seemed the most normal, looking as if she'll only act if anyone makes a move on her master.
'Naruto-kun's got this,' Kushina assured herself, before spotting a certain mop of orange-blonde hair. 'Now for Phase 2.'
"Igawa-san!"
Igawa Sakura jumped a foot in the air, and slowly turned to Kushina with a nervous smile on her face. "Um, yes Kushina-san?"
Kushina raised an eyebrow at the reaction and chuckled. "Are you busy right now?"
Sakura shook her head. "Uh, no. I just finished seeing a VIP off."
"Good girl, because I have an important job for you." Kushina said, patting her shoulder. "Our Boss Naruto has some very important guests visiting right now, and he needs a server to take and deliver the orders. And. I. Chose. You." Kushina said sweetly with each pat on the shoulder.
"Oh, great. I'm…so honored." Sakura squeaked nervously, sweating profusely while looking back and forth between Kushina and Naruto with…Black and Oboro. "How could I ever…refuse?"
Kushina smiled. "Thank you, Sakura-san. You're really doing me a solid. Off you go!"
'Oh man…' Sakura groaned as Kushina went back downstairs, and put a finger to her ear. "Um, nee-san? Does the Boss know I'm a Taimanin?"
"No, I never told him. If they suspect you of being one, then it must be because of me. Why?"
"I've been chosen by Kushina-san to be the Boss and Black's server for the night…" Sakura replied as she got some menus.
"That is troublesome, Sakura-san, especially with Oboro being there to recognize you. We should pull you out right now-"
"No, Mizuki-san! I got this. Besides, the Boss won't let anything happen to me. He protected nee-san, he'll protect me."
Sakura calmed her nerves and made her way to the table. He was greeted with a smile from Naruto, while avoiding the eyes of her enemies. She didn't even have to look at Oboro to see the look of surprise on her face.
"Here...are your menus," she said stiffly, still not looking at the demonic trio in the eyes. "Would any of you like a glass of water while you wait?"
"Ne, Uzumaki-kun," Oboro cooed with a venomous strike in her words. "Do you happen to know all of your employees as well as you think you do? You might want to check again."
"I interview every single employee myself. I know everyone. This one is usually a server downstairs, but she's taken initiative to work up here tonight." Naruto said with a frown, before turning to Sakura with a smile. "Yes please, Igawa-san."
"I don't need anything…yet." Edwin said smoothly, making Sakura shiver.
Ingrid raised her hand. "I would like a glass of water if you don't mind, girl."
Sakura nodded and scurried away.
"You keep some interesting company, Uzumaki. You must know that the girl is not who you think she is," Edwin said while staring at the girl's back.
"You can dispense with the tip-toeing, Edwin-san. She may be a Taimanin like her sister, but when she's on the clock, she's my employee. I would appreciate it if you don't bother her while she does her job." Naruto replied with an edge in his voice.
"But it's so much fun to give her a taste of despair, just like I have before-"
"Oboro," Edwin said sternly. "Hold your tongue."
Naruto narrowed his eyes. "That was ominous. Why did you bring someone who's obviously antagonistic? This is supposed to be a friendly meeting."
"She begged to come with unfounded worries about me getting ahead of her," Ingrid said, ignoring the death glare Oboro was sending her way. "My only job is Black-sama's safety and security."
Edwin chuckled. "She's so serious at her job that she doesn't even take breaks. Her vacation days are piling up."
"How dedicated," Naruto deadpanned as Sakura returned with a tray, carefully balancing two glasses of water.
"Here you go." Sakura said, setting the glasses of water in front of Naruto and Ingrid. She stayed near Naruto as she reached over to give Ingrid her glass, much to the latter's amusement.
"Aww, why did you get rid of the cowtits? They looked good on you." Oboro whined, causing Sakura to flinch.
'Don't tell me. Sakura-san suffered the same body modification as Asagi-san?! If so…oh shit!' Naruto thought, realizing the implications as he saw Sakura shaking. He glared at the smug Oboro. "Sakura-san, you can substitute with someone else-"
"No! I'm fine, Boss. Let me do this!" Sakura said, getting control of herself and flipped open her notebook. "Now then, may I take your orders?"
"...Fine then. If you insist." Naruto said, closing his menu. "I'll have the Harumaki appetizer, with a large serving of Tonkotsu ramen with extra noodles, and an orange Soju."
"Hmm. I'll have a Lobster Risotto appetizer, with the most expensive meat made into a Filet Mignon. Bloody." Edwin ordered, smirking at Sakura. "And classic scotch whiskey."
"Wagyu Meatballs. Sole meunière. Red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon. And Strawberries in Dark Chocolate for dessert." Ingrid said while still reading the menu.
"I'll take a small Beef Wellington, no vegetables. With a leg of lamb…rare. Complete with Pinot Noir~" Oboro said while licking her lips at Sakura.
Sakura shivered as she tried to ignore the implications of Oboro's order. "Right. I got all that. I'll have it all up soon. Now if you'll excuse me."
She quickly sped away while Naruto glowered at Oboro, his irises turning red and pupils turning into slits. "You're a piece of work."
Lamb represented innocence and cuteness, and she was obviously trying to get to Sakura.
Oboro smirked. "I suggest you don't become one too if you want to avoid my wrath."
Now it was Ingrid's turn to glare daggers at Oboro behind Edwin's back.
"Your arrogance reminds me of an old friend, who is currently in jail right now," Naruto said, his eyes returning to normal as he smiled as it got noisier downstairs. "But enough small talk. The show's about to start. Please enjoy."
(The Shokugeki)
On the stage in the main area, a spotlight was on Gamsei and Asahi as they stared each other down.
Gamsei had his arms crossed over his chest with a pencil in his ear, staring blankly but fiercely at his opponent. He might've inherited his sailor mouth from his adopted father, but his tranquil fury is when his full rage can be felt. On his cooking utility belt is his kitchen knife, along with a few more tools.
Asahi, meanwhile, had a calm smile on his face with a closed-eye smile like he had no care in the world, holding a briefcase full of knives from his conquered victims. Dressed in black and wrapped in a red scarf underneath his apron, along with holsters filled with more knives and strange tools, his pale skin seemed to illuminate in the brightly-lit room, making him resemble the Reaper of Cuisine.
As the two continued to size each other up, Sanzaemon stepped onto the stage with a microphone in hand. His appearance caused the crowd to stir from those deep in the culinary world.
"Good evening, patrons of Le Fox Den. For those that don't know me, I am Nakiri Senzaemon, former Director of Tōtsuki Tea Ceremony and Cooking Academy. I have been asked by the esteemed owner of Le Fox Den, Uzumaki Naruto, to oversee tonight's Shokugeki between two established chefs of their calibur: Warden Gamsei and Asahi Saiba!"
After the applause, he continued. "This is just a friendly duel between the two," he said, and the crowd sweat dropped as they saw an aura of a tiger and a snake growling and hissing at each other over them, "where their skills will do the talking for them; to prove who between the two of them are dominant in the world of cooking. I now turn it over to the MC of this Shokugeki, Kawashima Urara-shoujo!"
Another spotlight shone onto the stage, with Tōtsuki's resident idol and event MC Urara shaking on the spot, her swirling eyes overtaking her heart-shaped pupils. She had originally been brainwashed by Azami, resulting in a one-sided commentary spree that favored Central. But after Kushina took her to meet Anko, the brainwash was overwritten by Anko's School of Hard Knocks, with Urara quickly learning that there are a lot scarier things in the world than making an enemy of Azami.
"Uh, hi~... I'm Tōtsuki's number one idol…Kawashima Urara…personally scouted to be the MC of this grand event!" she squeaked and laughed nervously, "This Shokugeki will have a one-hour time limit, with the theme being a fine dining take on America's Southern Barbeque! Here to judge the dishes are the culinary world's finest!"
As she spoke, all attention was turned to the ones at the judges' table. The first judge was a tall man with short brown hair and wearing a business suit. The second judge was an old man with a short stature, a bald head with gray side hair, and wearing a yukata with a flower pattern. The third judge was an African-American with short curly black hair with shaved sides, round glasses, and wearing a light-colored striped suit with a red tie. The fourth judge is a woman with dark brown hair tied in a braid, violet eyes, an ample bust, and wearing a dark blue kosade with a white chef's coat and French apron over it. And the fifth judge is a young woman with short blonde hair and blue eyes, and wearing a white shirt with a tie, a black skirt and shoes, and an open jacket.
"First up, we have Dōjima Gin-san, Tōtsuki alumni and General Head Chef of Tōtsuki Resort! Second, we have the President of the Japanese Food Industry Council, Ōizumi Kakinoshin-san. He's judged at the Academy for many years, and now, he will judge the battle here. Third, we have Histoire-san, one of the many premiere bookers of the WGO. Fourth up is Inui Hinako-san, Tōtsuki alumni, as well as the owner and head chef of Kirinoya! And the fifth is Lanterby-san, second class Bookmaster of the WGO!"
"And finally our special guest is…eh?!" Urara started sweating in fear. "The…current Head Bookmaster of WGO?!"
…
"WHAT?!" Erina yelled in shock from the kitchen.
"Auntie Mana is here!?" Alice squeaked, looking quite baffled.
"Auntie Mana?!" the other employees repeated in shock.
"Wait, if that woman is Alice's aunt, does that mean-?" Soma trailed off, glazing at the frightened Erina.
"Yes, that's my mom, and she also holds the God Tongue," Erina breathed. "But why? Why is she a judge for this Shokugeki?! It doesn't make any sense!"
"Is she that big of a deal?" Ryō asked with a frown.
"She is the daughter of Senzaemon-sama and Erina-sama's biological mother, you dolt!" Hisako snapped, whacking him on the head.
"My bad, Alice never talked about her much," Ryō admitted, rubbing his head.
"I don't get it. Why this Shokugeki? Why now?" Erina wondered, looking quite fearful.
"Tou-san told me that she became the Main Bookkeeper of the WGO to find a chef that would cook for her for the rest of her life. Her God Tongue is so powerful and uncontrollable that even the finest and most delicious foods would taste disgusting to her. It's so bad that she always has an IV drip hooked up to her for nutrients to sustain herself." Alice explained. The surrounding chefs muttered among themselves, shocked at the story.
"Seriously?! Then, does that mean Erina-sama-" Ikumi gasped, looking worryingly at Erina.
"I'll be fine! I've been working on it thanks to the Boss. Progress has been slow, but I'm getting there!" Erina assured her, waving her arms in panic. "Now come on everyone, back to work! And Mimasaka-san, turn that steak over before it catches on fire!"
"Gah, my apologies, Erina-sama!" the big guy exclaimed and set back to work.
"Oy, do you think Gamsei-senpai knows?" Takumi wondered while stirring some noodles.
"Don't worry, guys! This is Gamsei-senpai we're talking about." Soma said. "If anyone can take Asahi down, it's him…and the Boss!"
…
"Warden-shounen." Senzaemon said, drawing the chef's attention away from his opponent. "Rest assured that none of them are paid off by Azami. It's the Head Bookmaster who you have to worry about."
"Keh, don't worry old man. Thanks to Naruto working with Erina, we have ideas on how to deal with the God Tongue." Gmasei said with a smirk.
"But Warden-shounen, her God Tongue is-" Senzaemon protested.
"Consider how she was gone for most of Erina's life, along with IVs I heard she has to take, I'm not nervous," Gamsei said, and turned back to Asahi. "Just start this Shokugeki already so I can throw this prick out."
"Oh my, such hostility Warden-san. You really do hate me a lot, do you?" Asahi mused with a closed-eye smile.
"I honestly didn't in the beginning; you were just one creepy snake. But I'm sure you underestimated the Chief, who has a way of finding out things, especially from your own clients. Tell me, Suzuki-san, how do you think you and your fellow Noir fucks will continue your operations when your own father is actively tearing down the very foundations of the culinary world with his gourmet bullshit?" Gamsei asked, narrowing his eyes.
That got Asahi to open his eyes with a cold stare. "Well well well, Warden-san. I have indeed underestimated you all if you managed to find that out. That saves the explanation."
"Then let me save even more time by giving you the same answer I gave your bootlickers, Nakamura: I won't be joining your Noir cult, and neither will the Chief," Gamsei said coolly. "My cooking and I will show you that you lot are nothing to be feared."
"Big talk. I've been working on my skills for a challenge like this, for you're looking at the only one who can satisfy the God Tongue."
"Yet another reason why you'll lose to me, ya donkey."
With their piece said, Gamsei and Asahi walked to their stations. While Asahi strode with pure confidence, Gamsei took his time as his eyes swam over the sea of people, and noted that the Asahi's fellow Noir comrades were amongst the crowd - at least the ones loyal to him. Gamsei especially recognized the ones that were trying to recruit him. He snorted and arrived at his station, ready to cook.
"You all know your theme and the time limit!" the MC Urara exclaimed. Just then, these words appeared on a large television screen. Written with green text on a black background, the screen said:
Shokugeki
Warden Gamsei vs. Asahi Saiba
Theme: Southern BBQ
Time limit: 1 hour
"Let the Shokugeki…begin!"
"Prepare yourself, Warden Gamsei! Allow me to show you the full power of my Cross Knives that will tame the God Tongue.!"
"I don't give a toss about the God Tongue. I'm going to make sure your stupid Cross Knives will be your own personal Titanic."
"So this is a Shokugeki, huh? I have to say that it's quite dramatic," Edwin mused as they watched the two chefs cooking fiercely. "I see them cooking, but looking closely, it looks like they're fighting for their lives."
Naruto nodded. "That's how we chefs do it."
"But you're not a normal chef, are you?" Edwin said with a pointed look.
"No, I'm not. I can tell you that while I am a ninja, I am not a Taimanin. I know nothing about them, outside of what I've been told." Naruto said, and took a sip of water. "But I did hear rumors about monsters roaming the shadows of Tokyo, and it was pretty surprising to see them after I saved that Taimanin they were after. Too bad they weren't very…friendly."
"What can I say? They were tasked with retrieving my special guest by any means necessary after she…went the wrong way." Edwin replied with a smile.
"A special guest you say, with all those injuries we found on her? Must have been quite the party you were throwing," Naruto dryly retorted. "Did it include illegal body modifications?"
"Why don't you ask that so-called employee of yours? We had such a great time together before she met you. Did she show you a good time to get hired by you? They do say blondes have more fun." Oboro said with a creepy smile.
"No," Naruto said shortly. "All employees are evaluated by their history and commitment. Sakura-san being a Taimanin wasn't even brought up, but I knew she could fight. So far, she's done well for herself here, and I won't let you endanger her life for your sick amusement."
"Oh? And how do you intend to stop me? Are you going to poison my food?"
"And why would I do that? A chef poisoning their customers is blasphemy and career suicide. I would never stoop so low, unlike you I bet."
"My apologies for Oboro's unprofessional behavior. Bringing her here was a mistake," Ingrid said with a sour look at Oboro.
"It's fine. It shows the kind of man your master is with the company he keeps," Naruto said with a side-eye at Oboro. "With every word she speaks, the regret in saving Taimanin Asagi lessens."
"Oboro, hold your tongue," Edwin suddenly said, glaring at her harshly, "or I'll kill you on the spot."
"Y-Yes, Black-sama…" Oboro quickly bowed in submission.
'Yep, this is going to be a long night…' Naruto grumbled to himself, feeling quite exasperated. 'Wonder how Gamsei is doing…'
A Shokugeki is a battle between chefs looking to advance their craft and to show their peers how good they are. It does not come easy, as a chef fighting in a Shokugeki cannot be an average chef, lest they be overwhelmed. It is not for the faint of heart, as it shows their grit, mettle, and most importantly, showing that they are capable and worthy of surviving in the culinary world.
While a battle cooking skilled reined on the outside, a battle of will raged within the tenacity between the two chefs.
[Shokugeki Battle Fantasy]
In a field of nothingness, Gamsei and Asahi were staring across from each other.
Gamsei had on a British butler outfit with a blue long coat, with metal claws on his hands and fingers, with metal wires wrapped around them. Holstered to his sides were his knives and various other kitchen tools.
Asahi, on the other hand, was dressed as a classic knight in shining armor, with his metal shining with all of it's pure, pompous elegance. Aside from the broadsword on his back, he had his Noir comrade's strange kitchen tools holstered onto him, serving as a portable armory and an extra set of metallic protection, created from the blades of the fallen heroes.
"You're a fool for challenging me, Gamsei. Your employees couldn't best me on their best day, not even Erina-hime," Asahi gloated with a winning grin. "What makes you think you can, a chef with no Skills?"
"One does not need Skills to be a great chef. Besides, all your friends were beaten by me. All I've got to do is cut off the head of the snake," Gamsei replied with cold eyes. "You."
The wind then blew about, with Asahi gaining a sour look when he realized that Gamsei was not backing down.
"So, how do you want to do this, Warden Gamsei? Take turns? Free-run? Act? Mercy?" Asahi asked while cracking his pale knuckles. "Or better yet, you surrender?"
Gamsei didn't answer, narrowing his eyes and walked forward, his hands behind him.
When a volcano erupted in the distance, turning the sky red, magma erupted from the ground around him, with buildings and structures popping up from around him.
"Fine…then you'll fall like the others!"
Asahi charged at him. Grabbing a long knife, he slashed at him, but his knife stopped inches from Gamsei's face. The pale chef looked shocked before jumping back, the knife being tossed away. Upon closer inspection, there were thin metallic wires surrounding him, with Gamsei controlling them with his hands and mouth, latter having one of his knives in it.
"Well that's an interesting tooollllllllllllllllllllll?!" Aashi suddenly yelled as he was suddenly dragged around the ground and into a building. "GGGAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
Gamsei had to fight back a smile as he had used his wires to latch onto Asahi's leg, hence the dragging around the buildings part.
"Not a tool that you can use, donkey." Gamsei mused as he slammed Asahi back to the ground. "Your mate's tools may be dangerous, but mine is capable of killing me if I fuck up…"
"Hmm, smells good down there." Naruto said, watching the Shokugeki. "Gamsei's cool as a cucumber as usual, and his opponents keep trash-talking him. He should really focus on his cooking…"
"I must confess, I have never seen a chef cooking the way he is with such strange…utensils." Edwin said, his eyes on Asahi using pots in the shape of balls, a chainsaw 'knife', and injectors.
"Hmm, did he have a fallout with his buddies in Noir? Those are the same tools they use. Is he really afraid of losing so much?" Naruto wondered, taking a sip of water.
"People will do whatever it takes to win in order to get what they want. Or who they want." Edwin said. "I can smell his desire to prove himself to someone. Reminds me of me when I was young."
Naruto shrugged. "I'm sure we were all that when we were young and dumb."
"Yes, we all had to learn some things, like our place in life," Edwin said with a knowing look at Naruto.
"...Is there something you like to tell me, Black?" Naruto asked, catching the veiled insult.
"I can tell that you're a child-"
"In my village, the moment you earn your headband, is the moment you become an adult. Also, the shit I've been through pretty much qualifies me for a lot of life experience. Try again."
"...I stand corrected, but it doesn't change the fact that you're still so young…compared to me."
"Good for you, old man. You want a shower and a nap to go with that?"
Lightning shot between them as they smiled at each other, their eyes glared daggers at each other.
"I must say, Uzumaki, you remind me of a woman I knew years ago-"
"I'm a guy."
"-Regardless, you and her are like two peas in a pod in not realizing your places. But unlike her, you don't have the power to resist me."
"You're free to underestimate me like everyone I ever fought. They all thought the same thing, and ate dirt for their lack of vision."
"I don't participate in Shokugeki like you. Only real battle experience counts."
"Funny you should say that, since I never did say I won those battles through Shokugeki. I hope old age isn't making you forget about how easily we dispatched your subordinates. Are you sure you don't have dementia or something?"
"How dare you insinuate Black-sama of having a human disease!" Oboro snarled at Naruto, while Ingrid facepalmed.
"Learn to take a joke, lady. This is just friendly banter," Naruto drawled, before finishing his water. "If you can't handle it, then you can excuse yourself, because your boss isn't giving me a reason to respect him. Least of all you, unlike Ingrid-san here. Wish it was just him and her except you."
Oboro's face twisted into a demented leer. "You have no idea how easily I can kill you right now." she seethed, cracking her fingers loudly.
"It is unwise to challenge a chef in their own restaurant," Naruto whispered coldly. "If you insist on making a scene, then I'll personally escort you out of the premises. For the sake of your master, do not test me."
Oboro furiously opened her mouth, but stopped when Edwin raised his hand with a harsh glare.
"Oboro, this is my final warning: from now on, do not speak unless I say so," Edwin said with a dangerous edge to his voice. "Remember that you're not the only one who serves me faithfully."
"...Yes, Black-sama." Oboro mumbled, bowing her head in submission again.
"That should clear up some of the tension," Edwin said to a sweet dropping Naruto.
"Right…"
"Hah!"
Asahi threw some pots in the shape of spheres at Gamsei, who weaved a surrounding barrier of wire around himself, making the pot bounce off them. Asahi 'tched', and juggled the pots around so fast that they caught fire. He threw him again, hoping that the wire would catch on fire.
It didn't.
"Heh! Got you!" Asahi laughed, and snapped his fingers.
Gamsei raised his eyebrow and looked up to see a giant guillotine coming down on him. Gamsei snorted, and manipulated his wires to slice the guillotine blades into little shards of steel.
"Some main protagonist you are, daring to play as a hero," Gamsei said, the blades bouncing off his barrier. "I wouldn't be surprised if you stole them instead of winning them off your fellow Noir fuckers. Well, except that Sarge broad, who follows you around like a little lost puppy."
"I could say the same thing about you, Warden Gamsei. You were taught by one of the greatest chefs in the world, Gordon Ramsey. Hell, you crafted yourself in his image. Why would you allow someone like yourself to be tamed by your kouhai, Uzumaki Naruto?"
Asahi summoned six grills that orbited around him. Several fireballs rose from them and shot themselves at Gamsei. Instead of using his wire, Gamsei flash stepped away from them with his hands behind his back.
"Seriously, you're using the same techniques your fellow donkeys did," Gamsei growled with a tick mark on his head. "So try. Something. Different."
"That's the thing about my Cross Knives, Warden," Asahi said with a grin. "The possibilities are endless!"
Gamsei suddenly felt several pinching stabs in his arms. Frowning, he saw several syringes sticking out of the ground, drawing his blood at a fast pace. Growling, he grabbed his knives and cut the syringes away, only to see Asahi in front of him with a "cooking knife" that was actually a large chainsaw. With no time to raise his wires, he blocked with his knives, causing sparks to fly.
"My Cross Knives is limitless! One touch and everything about the chef becomes a part of me. And with my cooking skills, I can combine their skills for endless possibilities! Don't you see how, how I am the only one in the world that can satisfy the God Tongue!" Asashi declared, forcing Gamsei away. "All you have is the pedigree of a reality show chef! How can it possibly overcome Cross Knives?! Spoiler alert: It can't! In the end, you will lose!"
Asahi pushed the silent Gamsei back, who reset his wires as Asahi stabbed the chainsaw knives to the ground.
"Behold, the next evolution to my Cross Knives!"
'This ought to be good…'
"Order up!"
Sakura quickly moved to get the tray of food to her Boss's table from the Lime Chef. As usual, it smelled mouth-watering delicious, but it wasn't on Sakura's mind right now. She was delivering the food to not only Naruto, but to Edwin Black, his Hell Knight Ingrid, and Oboro. She also couldn't get the leg of lamb out of her head, knowing it was ordered specifically to mess with not just her, but with Asagi as well. Steeling herself, she walked over to the table.
"You could poison their food," Shiranui suggested from her position, making a shocked Sakura stop in her tracks.
"Negative!" Asagi furiously snapped. "Not only would it bring unnecessary attention, but it would make Naruto-san look bad."
"All bets should be off when it comes to Edwin Black. We'll never get another chance like this." Shiranui said seriously. "The backlash should be minimal when Black dies."
"They're supposed to be in a neutral meeting! It may benefit us, but it won't benefit Naruto-san. When word gets out of a customer dying from poison in his restaurant, he'll take the heat and Sakura will be in trouble for it!" Asagi said angrily. "I owe Naruto-san too much for that to happen! Besides, we don't even know if it'll work."
"It's all right nee-san, I won't do it." Sakura said and continued to walk. "I would never do such a thing to Naruto-san, even if it is to get revenge on Black. Besides, there's something I already planned on doing."
"...Just a suggestion." Shiranui said with a sigh.
Sakura arrived at the table, and began setting the food down. "Here's your food." She avoided the opposition's eyes as she put the Lobster Risotto appetizer and the Bloody Filet Mignon steak in front of Edwin; the Rare Lamb leg in front of Oboro; and the Wagyu Meatballs, and Sole meunière in front of Ingrid. "And your drinks," she said, giving Oboro and Ingrid their red wine and Edwin his whiskey. "And we'll have your dessert up in a few moments," she added to Ingrid.
"Thank you," Ingrid said, a bit miffed that Sakura was avoiding her gaze.
"And here is your food, Boss," Sakura said brightly, giving Naruto his Harumaki and ramen bowl with Soju. "Enjoy!"
"Thank you, Sakura-san. Compliments to the chef as always." Naruto said, breaking open his chopsticks. "I'll let you know when to bring the check."
Sakura nodded and walked away, albeit slower than usual.
"And before you three ask, no they're not poisoned. I have a good nose to tell. I would never allow that in my restaurant, and if Sakura-san pulled a stunt like that, her being fired would be the least of her worries," Naruto added in a serious tone, before digging into his Harumaki appetizer. "So please, dig in."
Naruto then turned to the ongoing Shokugeki to see how it was going. He frowned as Asahi continuously taunted Gamsei, while continuing to use his fellow Noir chef's tools with experts, but grinned when he saw Gamsei blatantly ignoring him. The main Sous chef of Le Fox Den was hard at work, going between different pots and pans and other things to make sure everything was prepared, in order, and cooked perfectly. One slip up, and he was done. In addition, Naruto smirked when he saw Gamsei use his wires to help him cook by cutting the meat and vegatives, bringing his own style into the fight.
Turning back to his guests, he sweatdropped. While Edwin and Ingrid were eating in a dignified, polite manner, Oboro was gripping her leg of lamb by the bones, and was ravishing the hunk of meat, tearing the meat with her teeth and mercilessly devouring it.
'Even Kurama is more dignified than her when eating,' Naruto thought, scowling when he saw Oboro's gaze on Sakura, who was shivering when Oboro's gaze left the blonde Taimanin.
"I must say that I am impressed. I thought your restaurant's reputation was exaggerated, but I was wrong," Edwin said after taking a moment to wipe his lips. "I think I would like to return to this fine establishment from time to time with my lovely associates."
'Hopefully without that Oboro woman or your orcs,' Naruto thought, before clearing his throat. "As long as you are a paying customer who causes no civil unrest, anyone is welcome in my restaurant," he said, smiling. "We're glad that you approve of our fine meals, Black-san. After all, our chefs come from the best culinary school around - at least, before its unfortunate fall from grace."
"I see," Edwin said, and took another bite of his meal.
'I believe I've found a new place to relax, especially with an owner that's not making any advances on me. He's evenly barely staring at my chest, which is a first,' Ingrid noted with a tad disappointment, and smirked. 'His wife must be beautiful enough for him to not be distracted by me. I also can't blame him for not being attracted to Oboro. Heh.'
"So tell me, young Uzumaki. What have my subordinates told you about me?" Edwin asked, taking a sip of his wine.
"Oh, the usual, really. They sang praises about you and your strength, the whole 'don't mess with us 'cause you'll mess with the king' kind of deal. Didn't really excuse their actions, so I chose to think about it later," Naruto said, finishing his Hamemaki. "Are you looking to avenge them like they claimed in their dying breaths?"
Edwin scoffed. "Of course not. They were weak if they died by your hand. They would've died anyway, since they're the ones who let my Taimanin guests escape my domain."
"Guests, you say," Naruto said and started slurping his noodles. "So, is there a reason why I should fear you?"
"Let's just say that I fit into Les Cuisiniers Noirs' cliente."
"Same as the Yakuza, who designated my restaurant as a "Don't fuck with this place" zone. It was after I tore their leadership a new asshole for one of their boys causing trouble here."
"I see. But there's nothing compared to NOMAD."
"Like the Lifepath in Cyberpunk 2077? Huh, I didn't know you guys played video games, too. You get around a lot?"
'This one is reminding me more and more of Kaguya by the minute…' Edwin thought, his eyebrow twitching once. "While a fascinating game indeed, no, that's not what I was referring to. I was referring to my organization."
'Yes, please keep checking all the boxes of an evil douchebag. I might get bingo.' Naruto thought while nodding. "Fascinating. What do you all do in this organization? Does it involve live white mice and injecting god-knows-what into them?"
"Partially, but primarily things that humans like yourself would find…inhumane," Edwin admitted.
"...Lovely." Naruto said, and slurped more of his ramen. "I get the idea."
"Good. Then this will be quick. I want you to join me."
"...Wait, what?"
"Gates of Cross: Unlimited Knives Works!"
Gamsei watched as the field was suddenly filled with cooking knives of all kinds, shapes, and sizes. In addition, portals appeared behind Asahi, summoning odd-looking kitchen tools that were just as weird as the ones the Noir members used.
"Wow, that's a lot," Gamsei noted, and raised his own knife. "Am I supposed to be scared or impressed, Nakamura Asahi?"
"It doesn't matter how you feel, Warden Gamsei! You got your training exclusive from one chef! I have the experiences of some he's learned from! You don't stand a chance in hell!" Asahi declared as the knives floated off the ground and pointed themselves at Gamsei.
"Your cheat skill may be impressive, boy," Gamsei growled, flexing his fingers with his wires responding by renewing the wired barrier, "But allow me to show you the skill of one who has trained in Hell!"
"I didn't stutter, Uzumaki-san. I want to form an alliance with me, for the sake of you and the family you no doubt have here with you," Edwin offered, taking a bite of his steak, "I'd rather not have you joining the likes of the Taimanin and the USF for the foolish mistake of crossing me."
Naruto stared at him as he opened his bottle of Soju. "You sure have a way with words," he finally said, pouring his drink into a glass. "Subtle threats won't get you anywhere with me."
"I suggest you hear my offer. While you may have some sway with the human world, you have none with my world. I suggest you hear me out and consider it." Edwin said with a knowing look.
"Well, depending on what you have to offer, I'm going to need a second opinion on it," Naruto replied with a scowl.
"For starters, you and your people will be granted protection from my men, and whatever business I have in mind for the world, I will assure you that you and your crew won't be a part of it," Edwin began. "Of course, that's just the standard offer that comes with these kinds of alliances."
"So what are the more special details?" Naruto asked, taking a sip of his drink.
Edwin gave him a sharp, serious look that made him tense up.
"Whatever business I conduct, you will stay completely clear out of, especially when it comes to the Taimanin."
In other words, when it came to Asagi.
"Hmm…" Naruto hummed, and took another sip of his drink. He didn't need his ninja training to figure out that Edwin was after Asagi. "Yeah, definitely going to need a second opinion on that."
"You won't need one, Uzumaki-san," Ingrid spoke up after finishing her appetizer, "Black-sama's offer is most generous. He is a man of honor, and should you choose to accept this agreement, so long as you uphold your end of the deal, he will uphold his - no tricks, nor loopholes."
Naruto hummed at that, before glancing at Oboro, who glowered at him while she continued tearing away at her lamb meat. She didn't have to say anything, with her eyes clearly screaming, 'Take the offer, or you're dead!' He shook his head, before turning back to Edwin.
"Like I said: Second. Opinion," he said evenly, before knocking the Soju bottle to the side.
On cue, a pale-skinned woman appeared from around the corner, and walked towards their table. She had long, white hair that flowed down her back and sides and to the ground, with clear white eyes that seemed to glow in the dim light, and red lipstick that stuck out like a red rose amongst the white. She wore a white dress with slits down both sides, white evening gloves that reached up to her elbows, thigh-high fishnet stockings, and a pair of red high-heels.
Edwin looked at the fallen bottle amusingly, knowing it was usually a sign of distress or backup. But when he laid eyes on the new arrival, his confident business demeanor slightly fell, his eyes widened when he recognized the woman, who smirked as she arrived.
"Still lusting after powerful women. I see nothing as changed. It's been a really long time hasn't it, Edwin Black?"
"Ōtsutsuki…Kaguya…"
Ingrid and Oboro froze at the sight of their master visibly paling. It seemed that Edwin Black, for the first time in centuries, has shown fear to someone else before him.
"The one and only." Naruto nodded as Kaguya sat next to him. "As well as my beloved ancestor."
"Who is most proud of her descendent," Kaguya added, taking the glass of Soju and sipping from it.
"Your ancestor…" Edwin gapped, looking at them. "Oh…"
Uzumaki Naruto was the descendant of Ootsutsuki Kaguya.
"Now then." Naruto propped his elbows on the table, and rested his chin on his hands. "Tell me about this alliance you're offering again?"
END OF CHAPTER 04
Next time… Chapter 05: The Lines in the Sand
Naruto announces his resolve to Edwin Black, and the Shokugeki between Gamsei and Asahi reaches its climax. As lines are drawn and a conflict begins anew, this will be a night long remembered as a new faction enters the three-way power struggle between the Taimanin, the Demons, and the UFS.
Note: Come Chapter 06, it's all Taimanin-focused events…
[Author's Note]
After watching Food Wars Season 5 a couple weeks back, I found it funny that I was acting into Senzaemon's Generation of Prodigies plan without knowing it, having him personally scout Naruto in the Elemental Countries. Though to be honest, the whole Generation of Prodigies plan was way too contrived of a plan.
There was no way I could write out a proper Shokugeki battle with my abyssal knowledge of cooking food. Instead, I took inspiration from both Food Wars and the Sucker Punch movie and created a fantasy-esque battle between Gamsei and Asahi. Funny enough, the idea came to me when I saw Asahi pretending to be a hero protagonist in one of his Shokugekis in Food Wars.
Pre-season 5, I was going to have Mana Nakiri be a judge for the Shokugeki. Post-season 5, she's now just observing the battle and tasting their food without it impacting their score. In addition, I was going to go the crack route and pair Mana with Gamsei, but after Season 5, I'm thinking of adding Mana to Naruto's harem (thanks for that thicc Mana pic Rtenzo lol), and I'm going to have Gamsei paired with the Armed Dished specialist, Sarge.
The dress Shiranui Mizuki was wearing is Azur Lane's St. Louis's Luxurious Wheels dress.
Released: Sunday, December 27, 2020