Final Fantasy VII Remake: A Tale Of Midgar Book I

by Arch-Daishou00

Destiny... A set course is not meant to be changed. A path is already written and set in stone. Aerith had long thought that was true. Till he appeared by the whims of the prince of madness, and it all had begun to change. Now an heir of Rama stands upon Gaia's soil. Nothing will ever be the same again... As the goddess of harmony, designed.

13. Cetra Sage SOLDIER

Disclaimer: We do not own Naruto or Final Fantasy VII: Remake

Co-Author and Beta: Godosptaran the Kitsune

Chapter 13: Cetra Sage SOLDIER

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"Genesis Rhapsodos."

Recognition bloomed in Naruto's eyes upon Aerith uttering that name. Memories of the few other files he found on his own before his talk with Domino and Hart.

"It is an honor such a captivating woman knows of me." The former SOLDIER gave a slight theatrical bow of his head. "But, should I be surprised that 'you' know me? Stewardess of Gaia."

While shock overcame the brunette Florist, her blond friend's glare grew sharper. "When delving into hidden truths for my reasons… I stumbled upon the information about the last possible Cetra of Gaia. And who would have guessed? It was the same girl Zack the Puppy fell in love with."

As he began to speak, he walked around Naruto and Aerith, the Sage keeping pace while keeping his friend firmly behind him. Their respective sword tips remained fixed on the other. The Blond felt Aerith's dainty hands grip the back of his shirt, matching his pace. "If you're looking for Zack, he isn't here." The brunette conveyed with a tremble in her voice.

"Oh, of that I'm aware. Fair vanished alongside an 'old friend' of mine…" Sage and Florist heard a tinge of pain in his voice, mentioning the last few words.

It was then Naruto took a real proper look at the former SOLDIER. Portions of his hair were slightly grey to white, and some parts of his skin looked palish grey. "You look a bit like hell ran you over, pal."

Amusement dance once again in Genesis's gaze, "Observant. While being a member of SOLDIER has strong benefits. They also come with severe consequences. Along with those hidden truths I mentioned coincide with my current affliction." He gestured to himself with his free hand. He lowered his arm, "I have been looking for a means to cure this ailment for some time now. While also taking some well-earned retribution against my former employers."

'...Wait, does that mean he's on our side?' Naruto ran his reflections to his Bijuu companion.

"He is most definitely on 'his' side, and no one else kit."

"So what we owe the pleasure of your company," The Sage inquired.

The Ex-SOLDIER kept his gaze on the tall Blond. "Two reasons. Our Lady Stewardess, and you..." Genesis stopped pacing, "I… 'Felt'... Your power days ago. And that half across the other side of the planet. The power that could raise Shinra to ashes and dust." His eyes turned towards the Florist, "And perhaps my salvation by your hand, Aerith."

The standoff was getting tense; everyone could feel it. Kurama's fur felt like it wanted to stand on end. "Watch yourself. I feel this guy's injuries and... weird illness isn't limiting his strength."

'Only one way to find out, but I doubt we both don't want to some extent.' Fixing his grip on his sword without breaking the stalemate or giving an opening, Naruto's eyes fixed heavily on analyzing the man before him. His stance was fluid and direct. He'd have to take advantage of that. "What kind of salvation is a former SOLDIER seeking from Aerith? And what exactly was your ranking? You seem a cut above some of the punks in helmets I've caught the eye of before."

"He was First Class," Aerith answered the last question with wariness, for which Genesis gave a nod in validation.

The Ex-SOLDIER gestured to the Florist, "A Cetra exerts numerous extraordinary capabilities. Not just to their connection to our Great Mother Planet, Gaia, and the Lifestream. Some legends proclaimed they could save a person on the brink of death, perhaps even after they die. But none know for certain."

"You think Aerith might be able to heal and save you," Naruto connected the dots from those words.

"She could very well be the only one who can save me."

The grip of the Florist's hands on Naruto's shirt grew tighter, "I... I don't know if I even could heal you."

A smile that drew from Genesis's lips put both on edge, "Not to worry; we can try as many times as possible. Provided you come with me."

"That didn't sound like a suggestion," The blond Uzumaki's voice became edged.

"Because it wasn't."

A cold tension enveloped the three. "Not. Going. To. Happen. Rhapsodos," Naruto declared steely.

"By all means then, Uzumaki. Show me your conviction."

"You'll find my conviction to protect those I deeply care for stronger than you can believe." A brief second after that was uttered, the two had the swords turned edge to edge and pushing against one another ever so slightly. "Aerith, Get to cover!"

A short burst of his chakra with a half seal behind his back caused the dust to pick up to cover her retreat from right behind him. However, this also gave Genesis time to back off and hide in the dust cloud. The Sage was not stupid enough to leave the unguarded one he vowed to protect and instantly created several clones. Some changed with Henge to look like her and ran off in separate directions, while another grabbed the real one and covered her energy with his own.

The red-coated intruder was quick to find them, however. "You won't fool me!" Slashing out at the clone, the smoke erupting from the slain 'Naruto,' Aerith stopped and turned around to run away. In an instant, Genesis was thwarted from his attempt to grab her by Naruto's fist making contact, though his reflexes saved him by clocking it with his weaponless arm.

The dust settled as the two broke off face to face, with Aerith covered by three more clones, getting her distance from the fight. Without an immediate need to be the shield, blue eyes glared at the SOLDIER angrily. "I told you, it's not happening!" Settling himself into his sword art stance, Naruto prepared himself.

A hand brushing the locks from his face, the ragged-looking swordsman stood and pointed his rapier saber forward, also readying himself. "I've been known to be quite the talented sword fighter. Poetic that a fight for a maiden would come down to the steel of two gentlemen, don't you think?"

"Could probably list half a dozen books," Naruto quipped.

"Indeed. Ever heard of Loveless?" Genesis charged, which made the Blond do the same.

Sparks fly from the Katana and the Rapier as they connect. Neither spoke as they let their skillfulness of the blade do the talking. And it was every movement, every thrust, and parry being measured by the Ex-SOLDIER's hawk-like gaze. "You are not from Wutai." It was more a statement than a question as he sword-parried the Blond's lunge. "I've seen every recorded battle in the war, and you do not move anything like them."

"Because I'm not Wutai."

That only seemed to make his opponent more curious, "Interesting."

Slicing upward, Naruto vanished from sight for a brief second using his excellent speed, reappearing in front of Genesis with the blade ready to make contact with the straight-haired man's chest. The slash went high without drawing blood as the SOLDIER backed a step and brought his arm in to thrust forward. The attack was simple and swift to skewer the Blond's heart.

With his style's footwork, Naruto skids back away with his back foot to pivot, his sword raised above his head. The thrusting Rapier missing its intended target, the ebony blade swung at the intruding man's shoulder with crushing force. The strike ended just before the edge of the Katana hit the ground, but no wound was caused yet again as Genesis had leaped quickly forward and ducked past the strike, turning on his heel with a spin and striking his Rapier's tip out with a swipe at Naruto's head and face.

The longer blade's tip barely cut at a few hairs when the shinobi sage ducked and slashed sideways for Genesis' gut, only to miss due to the distance made between them. But he did manage to get a single cut into the red coat, much like a few tips of his hair had been.

Skipping on a single foot back to a neutral stance, Genesis looked at the cut in his coat. "You show considerable skill, more like a Samurai or Knight. Are you sure you are even a Shinobi at all?"

"The Shinobi life never really stuck with me."

"It shows," Did that sound like a compliment or insult? "You seem more a hero than a killer from the shadows."

Naruto adjusted the grip of his Katana, "Still learned some good lessons from it."

"As a good fighter should."

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At her hiding spot, Aerith focused on her friend and the former SOLDIER beside Naruto's clones. Her emerald eyes were witnessed as the two almost looked like they were dancing with how smoothly their sword work moved against each other. 'Kurama...' Her thoughts went out to Bijuu.

Kurama growled, concentrating on the enemy, "Just sit tight and keep quiet, girl. This human is not an opponent to be unfocused against."

The brunette did as instructed as sparks flew from the blades.

Each strike left the ringing sound of despair in her as she worried one of them would die. She knew too much death already. 'Can I stop this? Naruto would stop if I asked, but would Genesis? Would he accept that I won't leave with him?' Whatever her thoughts, she could only watch as two powerful fighters clashed because of her.

The Rapier smacked the side of the darkened sword to deflect the slash before reversing into position and delivering three rapid thrust stabs, one for a vital each on the main body of the blue-eyed fighter. Stepping forward at the end of it sneakily. "'Reposte, Knight of the land, and catch your steel's cold intent, for you wound only your ego!'"

Taking the side of the blade in an open palm, Naruto blocked each strike as they came, middle, high, and low in that order, with the other side of his blade. Pulling his sword back to his side, his arm reared behind him as he slid back in stance; he went for a thrusting maneuver himself, all with Genesis stepping close with both feet together and his blade pointed up in front of his body. "Catch this, And we'll see whose ego gets wounded!"

Thrusting forward, Naruto advanced on Genesis with exactly what was asked for. As his Katana's tip surged forward at lightning speed, Genesis struck down with his blade to strike the opposing edge away as he had done many times before. But that choice of movement was against him, for the real target was not his heart but his blade, with the ebony edge lifting to stab right into the flat point of his saber and the grounded strength of the Sage forcing it up and over his head with the amount of force put into it. His foot reared back to catch his balance as his Rapier flew above him, his defenses broken. Again, Naruto's movement was shadowed like a blip of time, the movement of his advancing stance instant as he dropped his sword and struck, finally landing a blow on the SOLDIER...

Barely.

Using a move he learned from one of his old friends, Genesis caught the blade in his weaponless palm, clamping down strong enough to halt the bone-shattering blow's intent for his chest to split open. The speed and strength were enough that the edge dug deep into his palm, drawing the first blood of the match.

The Ex-SOLDIER did well masking the pain with a smirk, "Expertly done, Ser Knight." He held the black blade firmly, "Do you have more?"

"I'm just getting started." Naruto's eyes were steely and sharp.

"Magnificent." Releasing the blade, the two backed away for only a moment to charge once more at each other. Spinning on the ball of his feet, Genesis whirled his Rapier for the Blond's neck.

Said Sage, ducked within inches of being struck. His free hand glowed his Rasengan, which his opponent took sharp attention to as it was thrust forward. The auburn-haired man felt his senses screaming with danger at seeing the spiraling ball of energy in the Blond's hand. For which he quickly bent back, avoiding the attack.

Even with Naruto's aggressive surprise with the Rasengan, the strike was completely dodged, which made the shinobi sage quickly cancel the attack and duck out of range. The real surprise, however, was that the Ex-SOLDIER hadn't stopped moving his arm from the face-strike, and when he bent back to dodge the blow, he rolled his arm and twisted his weapon's edge appropriately for his counter-attack.

One that the blonde could not get away from in time, even when backing off in the completely safe opposite direction, as the sword's edge cut into his clothes this time, but with the added wound where the tip managed to slice just the smallest gash into his collar. Missing vital blood veins, the wound was quite visible. Spinning through the strike, Genesis held his blade behind him and stood tall. "'Rain upon me your worst, for I rise like the phoenix and fly once more.'" Raking his hair again to collect himself, he smiled towards his opponent. "That is a spell I've never known before. Is it a Ninja technique? That is more like your 'former' occupation."

The Blond kept his gaze on his enemy while wiping blood from his neck. "A Clan technique."

"Hmm," Fire cloaked Genesis free hand, "Shall we take this duel to the next performance?" Extending his hand forward, he shot a fireball from his palm like a bullet.

Dodging the flames with a leap, The Uzu Sage's lightning materia attached to his belt glowed. Following his foe's example, he unleashed a wave of lightning arcs for its target.

The control Naruto gained from constant training and limited chakra use to keep collateral damage at a minimum helped keep the attack from exploding what he wished to be his new place in the undercity, but the large arcs of multiple bolts of Lightning still surged and scorched the ground from his position in the air.

With deft footwork, a blur of red from the coat's freely flowing cloth of the Rapier-wielding man was quickly dodging every surge and stream of the attack sent his way, all as a glow was brightening on the hilt of his sword where a few Materia were stored. Seeing the blonde start to drop to a landing, and the Lightning had finally finished, his sword erupted in a strange flame that felt eerily like Amaterasu's flames but still colored red like any flame. "Hell, Firaga!"

The spell shot forward with a resounding bass of force; a cannon being shot off would be silent in comparison as the larger-than-usual ball of darkened flame came straight for the landed Sage. 'CRAP! Hope Water still works on this fire!' Flying into rapid hand seals to defend against the spell closing on him.

Genesis felt a shift in the air as he soon saw water particles shoot toward the Blond. They began to swirl and shift before creating a towering cyclone of pure water. As water and fire clashed, steam and fog engulfed the area. Using the cover to its full advantage, Naruto dashed through clouds using bare sensory skills to pinpoint his opponent.

The steamy fog had even reached Aerith from her spot, and she could not see her friend and the former SOLDIER. But she could faintly see sparks of blades clashing once more that went from one side of the warehouse to the other.

Another fireball was shot out but met with a different fireball and collided, constructing a wall of flames.

The swirling flame tower was suddenly encased in ice, frozen by another eerily dark magic elemental attack. The force of the ice jetting spiked obstacles at high speed caused the steam and fog to start breaking away from the center of the battle before the whole tower was suddenly struck by yet another dark elemental attack, this time lightning, as it broke the ice and caused a barrage of ice spikes to rain upon the battlefield.

Seeing Genesis' handiwork, Naruto called upon his ancestral power to enflame himself and launch multiple smaller fire projectiles to stop the spread of ice from hitting him or Aertih, which he was firm on keeping his stance between her and his opponent who wanted her as much as possible.

The entire area was bristling with magical power; you could feel the tingle from the electrical currents in the area stand the hair on the back of your neck, the chill of the shadowy flakes of ice and snow flowing in the air around, your breathe visible, even though it felt like a furnace. 'The hell did he do!? Is this the true power of Magic in this place? Mana is no joke if someone masters theirs can cause this feeling.'

"It's not just the elements. There's no telling what this guy meant when he shouted 'Hell' or why the elements seemed off. And he seems to be playing around with that stupid grin." the fox inside the Blond was right.

The playful yet sinister smirk was clear as day as the auburn-haired warrior slowly walked towards him. "'Alas, the heavens wane, and the steel waxed with pure hate as corruption took hold, but the heart ever pondered if the feeling was righteous or revealing of horrid horrors.' Careful, you'll find this combination of powers linger in the air."

With a hunch, the Sage flipped through more seals before putting his palm to the ground. The force of the wind that erupted from himself was enough to cause everyone around to guard against the force, though the true reason for the gust was to throw the heavily sinister air as far above and out as possible to cleanse the area. And it somehow worked with the elemental effects, no longer causing concern. "Careful yourself. The air is something I have some control over."

The wind picked up a lot of dust and debris, blanketing the area. Which gave the blond a moment to catch his breath, but he kept focused when prepared for the next clash. His ears perked as he heard clapping, "Bravo. You are a talented and skilled warrior not to be underestimated," Genesis complimented while being unseen.

"...Not so bad yourself. Kind a wish we weren't fighting." Naruto admitted.

"I agree. But sadly, we must play these roles dealt to us." Then, the Uzumaki felt a change in his opponent's aura. At that moment, the air and dust exploded and vanished, and his cerulean rose as Genesis stood a few feet away. But now, with a single large black-feathered angelic wing extended from the left side of his back.

Aerith's only brow rose at the sight, feeling a knot form in her stomach.

The Ex-SOLDIER's grin grew more sinister, "Shall we dispense with the warmup and proceed with the show?"

"Game on, then." Though the blue-eyed Sage thought he was prepared, he soon learned he wasn't. The wing flexed, and Genesis leaped forward with incredible speed as he drove his sword's tip straight for the Sage's heart.

Moving out of the way, the ex-shinobi almost panicked and jumped out of the way, which would have been increasingly dangerous, though he kept himself on his feet and turned to his opponent to meet with another strike, the Rapier slashing up at him. It was blind luck he could block it with his darkened sword, only to be skidding back on his heels away from the brute force.

Regaining his footing, Naruto had little in the way of countering when the hilt of the winged man glowed and prepared another spell. The sparks that flew from the sword were bolts that carved the very ground as they traveled right for him. Quickly thinking, he grabbed his Materia and used more power to match the output, hoping the two lightning spells canceled out.

He was thankful they did, but the air started feeling sinister again. 'Whatever that darkness-enhancing stuff he uses in his elemental attacks is, I'm getting sick of it!'

"Maybe match powerup to power up. He's stronger and faster than before. Whatever that wing is, it's like our cloak." Kurama reasoned, and seeing as they were now on the defensive, they also had to consider it for this fight.

The Blond wondered about that. Was that wing a power boost, or was Genesis holding back til now? Naruto had no time to think as the auburn-haired man swooped down at him at blinding speed. He barely had time to dodge as some of Genesis's sword cut into his shoulder. But the former SOLDIER was not done as his sword was nearly too fast for the Blond, cutting into his arms, chest, and legs.

Fire once more built up in Genesis's free hand, and he shot it point-blank at his opponent. A half shriek/scream came from Aerith at the sight of her friend struck and flung back like a cannon ball throw the warehouse wall. "Hmm, was that truly all you had, Uzumaki?" Genesis stared through the scorched hole of the building.

The man's mako glowing eyes sharply narrowed as a wave of immense power washed over him. He raised his forearms like an x to guard himself from a glowing golden fist. The sheer force of the punch sent Genesis sliding back considerably as he stared in awe at the sight before him. His expression was shared by Aerith as now Naruto stood enveloped in golden fire with black lines across his body. The flames were shaped like a high-collar hoari, a black shirt, and golden pants with sandals. Even the Blond's skin was golden, and his hair shot upwards spikily. His whiskers were now black lines, his orange slit eyes glaring.

"Let's get this show on the road then, Genesis."

With an even greater speed increase than Genesis had shown, the golden-cloaked Sage had a Rasengan in each hand as he went to end the fight quickly. The Ex-Soldier was surprised at just how much this form had given his opponent in terms of power, all as he focused all his senses on getting the hell out of the line of fire, covering himself in his wing and launching into the air before he could be struck down.

Staying high above, Genesis quickly defused the situation, ass as Naruto was building an even bigger energy ball, now that looked to be generating blades along its spherical shape. "Let us call this a win for you. Neither of us wants to alert Shinra or other powers to start looking for us. I concede, Ser Knight. You can keep the maiden for now, and I am sure you will do a wonderful job keeping her safe."

At those words, Naruto paused as his Ōdama Rasengan remained in place before dispelling. "You are quitting now?"

Genesis chuckled, "As I said. Neither of us wants Shinra or any other force's eyes upon us both." The blond cocked a brow. Something felt off to him, but he couldn't place it. The former SOLDIER turned his attention to Aerith, giving a formal bow. "It was an honor to have met you, Lady Steward." With those words, Genesis flew upwards into the sky and away from the battle.

The Sage did not take his eyes off the man until he completely vanished before sighing. "Naruto!" Said Blond's ears perked up as Aerith ran towards him from her hiding spot with the clones puffing away. But she slowly stopped as she took a good, long look at his glowing form. She felt this when Naruto took down that Yin/Yang monster. Her feet drew her closer, staring at the golden flames. Almost robotically, her hand rose towards the Blond's cheek.

Her demure hand reached without being stopped. "...It's..." Aerith said quietly, touching Naruto's cheek. "It's so warm." She could feel Naruto's and Kurama's power combined, like the sun's warmth, without being burned.

Emeralds stared into the orange slits as all were silent for a long moment between them. Aerith felt disappointed as the golden flames vanished, and the Blond reverted to his original state. "Are you alright," she spoke in a whisper.

Naruto did not answer as he turned his gaze back to where Genesis flew away. "He was baiting me into using the chakra cloak." The realization came across the Uzu Sage, "He wanted to see it."

"...Then... Was his declaration to kidnap me just a ploy then," Aerith questioned, lowering her hand with shock in her eyes.

A grunt made the two turn, with Kurama appearing to be the size of a large wolf. "He fully intended to take you. But he also used that threat to ensure Naruto took him seriously." Bijuu and Florist looked back at the Blond, who groaned from exhaustion from the battle and the pain of his injuries.

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The Blond sat quietly on one of the pews of Aerith's church with his shirt off while said brunette tended to his wounds. Naruto was grateful for having all his scrolls with him, one being his medical kit in case of things like this, as much as he protested that his wounds would heal within days. The Florist would not hear a word of it, and thus, she dressed all his injuries.

Beside her sat Kurama, who looked on in thought.

Seeing both of them being so serious, the flower girl finished one wound dressing to start the next as she tried to converse. "You used your aura against the big monster, but it was so quick you beat it instantly and changed back so no one else would know you could do it. Is there a particular reason for that?"

"Chakra Cloak." Naruto verified the proper term instead of aura. "And I had been trying to avoid using it to avoid attracting attention." the fact Genesis could feel him half across Gaia got his attention. "And collateral damage would be more than a little excessive."

"So you have to be careful using it around here," Aerith surmised.

"Putting it lightly, a fully charged Bijūdama could wipe out this wretched city to ashes." The brunette's brow rose, glancing at Kurama upon hearing his words. She paled as she recalled the sight of a Bijūdama from her friend's memories.

There was also something else Aerith remembered, "Your Senjutsu?"

Naruto's head swayed from side to side, "I can't use it here. At least in the City while near those damn Mako reactors. I've tried..." He sighed, "So that was a SOLDIER First Class."

"A far, much different opponent compared to those Turks," Kurama quipped. "And then his power shift... It felt wrong and unnatural."

Aerith slightly hesitated her dressing, hearing them talk about it. Naruto noticed but said nothing until she was finished. As soon as the wounds were dressed, she started putting things away. When she turned to give the supplies back, she saw him looking at her. "Uhm... Is there something on my face?"

"You know what that power was, don't you? Or felt it too and have an idea?" His voice carried curiosity, keeping his tone soft to not stress her out even though he wanted to know more.

The brunette Florist perked up, "I have no idea what that was. That was freaky and weird. And got super scary near the end, didn't it?" Aerith quickly rose to stand with her hands behind her back, "Patched you up all good." She smiled brightly before turning and walking over to the flowers.

A deadpan as dry as the wasteland outside Midgar was shared by Naruto and Kurama, looking at one another. That had to be the weakest lie and deflection they had ever heard. Still, neither called her out on it as both felt the subject struck something in their friend. Groaning, the Blond got to his feet. "With Senjutsu a bust while being in this damn city. Using the Chakra Cloak is a dangerous last-resort method. I need to up my training."

"Or resume what you have been slacking off since we arrived," The Bijuu kitsune chided. "You had just begun working on it before your scouts found where your Uchiha friend's killer was and went off to 'settle the score.'" A nervous laugh came from his human partner.

"What training?" The blond and Bijuu glance over to Aerith while tending to her flowers or pretending to...

A brow cocked from Naruto, "You didn't see while looking in here?" He points to his head.

"My telepathy only showed me the summary of everything without any real detailing. Kind of like a movie trailer if I can best describe it."

So she glimpsed the page notes with very little context.

Naruto grunted, "So you know I'm not fully human either, like you are, right?"

That drew Aerith to nod, "I know the Uzumaki are part dragon from the Eastern Dragon Clan. And it started with... Maw-Maw?"

"That's her pet name the clan calls her by; her real name is Meihui. I must explain about her to get where I'm going with this different training."

Aerith was a little happy to learn more about the man, though she wondered exactly how much he had to divulge to get to his training. "Does she have much to do with your training? Did she give you something to work on, and you didn't because you were lazy?"

Ignoring the jab, the blue-eyed warrior tried his best to explain the importance of it all. "Meihui is the great dragon, a semi-divine immortal in my world. Well, one of them, but to the point. Not only do I share blood with her to an extent, but I can potentially wield that power myself... With a very special weapon."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Granted, to explain Maw-Maw Meihui, one had to explain the Dragons in general from Uzumaki's realm. As Naruto discovered, they were the first creations of the Gods. They are The Ancients, The Elder Race who ruled the Earth long before history was written. The Drakes, The Wyvern, the Wyrm, and those close to his kin. The Eastern Clan held sovereignty by holy mandate over the four seas and all bodies of water.

The Azure Kingdom of the East is where Meihui originated. A loyal vassal to the Legendary Storm God, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, for over a millennia. Ancient, even during the time of Ao Guang's rulership. Begotten her dragon son Genryu, who became Chief of the Eastern Clan. But also fell deeply in love with a wandering human sage known as Asa, Son of Lava, King of Shravasti.

Grandson to the Hero God King and Seventh Avatar of Vishnu, Lord Rama.

Their union became the creation of the children of the Whirlpool, The Uzumaki Clan.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

"Tsukiko, Koyin, Tsuroka, Bhagesh, Marai, and Sakama. The first Uzumaki. But unlike her siblings, Tsukiko-Baachan didn't start a family. But became an immortal Sage out of her unconditional love for the world and everyone living there. Made it her eternal mission to be a world protector for three thousand years." Naruto's face grew distant, "A lot of stuff happened..."

"I did see it... The Age of Chaos and The Sundering." Aerith spoke quietly.

At least that did not need to be told, for the Blond was grateful, "In any event, Baachan finally returned to the Uzumaki two hundred years ago. Many Decades later, he Fell in love with Korin-Jiji, the Uzumaki's strongest warrior. My family line came from them, Manami-Baachan. Their youngest daughter was my mom's mother."

Kurama took over, "While brat is a mixed blood being part Namikaze from his father. His Uzumaki heritage is more potent than most of his kin, being his great-grandmother is Tsukiko. He can tap into his draconic heritage. Something he had started with his physique. After the final nail of the Cult was hammered into their coffin, Naruto began training to harness his dragon blood more."

"And also," Naruto pulled out a scroll from his pocket. Aerith recalled seeing it once. This one was more ornate, with serpentine dragons drawn instead of the other plain-looking scrolls. "Maw-Maw had a sword personally made for me forged from one of her claws and scales."

"Aptly called 'The Dragonscale Sword,'" The Bijuu points a tail at the scroll, "One-fourth of her power was infused with that blade. This power is a benefit and obstetrical for my partner here."

"How so?"

Naruto answered, "Dragonscale resonates with my dragon blood." He paused, "You saw how I was when using Kurama's power before we became friends, right?" The brunette nodded, "Well, instead of being consumed by hate and the need to destroy. It is pure power and domination."

The amount of information thrown her way to understand what kind of item was in that special scroll was amazing and terrifying. But the importance of who created this special sword, from what, and how much power that created? It took a minute to click into place and get her curious fully. "So, what makes that more dangerous than hate and destructive needs? Growing more powerful isn't inherently bad, though craving domination isn't very nice either."

The deadpan looks she got was a little jarring, but she let them explain. The Sage did so with a simple answer. "Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely. If I'm not careful, the hunger for power and domination will make Shinra look like a company of saints in comparison."

"And if he went on a rampage with that kind of power at his fingertips, the city would be a crater big enough to be seen from the moon."

Those words stuck to the Florist, who turned a deep, terrified white to her skin.

"Which is why," Naruto cleared his throat. "I need to resume my training to harness my Draconic heritage." He holds up the scroll housing Dragonscale. *Since I must wait to resume my Senjutsu advancement to Tier Two.* Or till he was as far away from Midgar as possible. "Also means I need to practice with Dragonscale outside of Midgar and far away not to draw attention from Shinra or anyone else."

"You have to do that?" Aerith questioned quickly with concern.

Naruto nodded, "I can't have anyone around while working on this."

"I guess that would make things difficult." She wasn't happy hearing he wouldn't be around. "It's not like you'll just disappear, though. You'd still come by often and likely use your clones. That shouldn't be too bad."

Sadly for her, Kurama gave a reason why that was also out of the cards. "His clones are an extension of him; whatever effects the main body can ripple across the clones. In the best-case scenario, they tear each other apart from the inside with power and poof into nothing. Worst case, they do some damage to a surrounding area before spoofing out of existence because they hit something so hard they hurt themselves sufficiently enough to mimic being hit by a lethal blow typically."

Naruto's brow furrowed, seeing the disheartened expression from Aerith, "Hey, it's not like I'm going to be living out there. Just a few hours a day and come right back. And there nothing out there in that wasteland to worry about."

The brunette deadpans, "How do you think monsters and feral animals get into the city?"

"Danger is still a minimum for me. Besides, the power I'll likely give off will scare even the dumbest monster from coming near my direction." The Blond rolled his eyes, seeing his friend still look concerned, "I promise I will be fine."

"He will have me around. Another reason monsters will be keeping a wide berth from us," Kurama quipped.

Still, Aerith did not like this idea one bit. But knew there was nothing she could do or say to sway her Sage friend from doing this dangerous training outside of Midgar. Moreover, he 'was' doing this for the City's safety. "I'll be waiting for you here when you get back."

Naruto conceded with a nod, "Fair enough." He put his shirt back on, "Better go tell Sofiya what happened. And better to up Tifa's, Biggs, Wedge, and Jessie's training."

"...You don't think Rhapsodos would come after them too, do you?"

The Kitsune Bijuu answered, "I would not put it passed him to try anything." He glanced to his partner, "Best start teaching girly here too."

The Florist blinked, "huh..."

"That would be the safe thing to do, wouldn't it?" Aerith felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand, seeing the tall blond smirking.

"But I know Magic! I'll be fine!"

"And if there is a scenario, you can't use magic?"

"..."

Kurama interjected, "Better to have more than one skill vixen."

The low whine from the Cetra girl made it clear she was not fond of this idea.

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Of course, informing the Avalanche/Watch HQ about the situation that happened with a rogue SOLDIER had to be a little on the vague side for obvious reasons. But still, Sofiya and the rest needed to know, and thus, everyone of importance needed to know about Genesis's appearance was being told. Deep glows of concern glowed on the faces of Tifa and Jessie while Naruto and Aerith explained what had happened.

A deep scowl shone on Barret's face while he leaned against the Watch HQ wall.

Biggs paced while processing the information while his buddy Wedge looked on with worry. Dutch leaned against his desk chair, lighting a cigarette. Sofiya remained stoned, face with an unreadable gaze.

"Genesis was one of the top three elites within SOLDIER alongside the late Angeal Hewley and Sephiroth." From the corner of Naruto's eye, he saw Tifa stiffen upon hearing the last name spoken by Sofiya. "Last reports stated he was killed during the destruction of Banora, his hometown."

A low snort came from Barret, "I would trust Shinra 'reports' as far as I could throw them."

"And our dust-up with that Shinra monster brought him out of hiding," Biggs remarked as he stopped pacing. He glanced at the tall Blond, "And went right for you. A guy who was reported dead comes by to say hello with the tip of his sword. There has to be a damn good reason he risked his living status to be broadcast to anyone."

"Which means we got to step up our own game if things keep getting more dangerous," Dutch offered in his two Gil into the conversation.

Jessie looked at their Sage friend and smirked. "Which means we get some real training? Been talking about it before, but now it has to happen. Right?"

As much as Naruto wanted to roll his eyes at her, he kept his composure. His blue eyes turned to the woman questioning him; he pointed to her chest plate. "First, we get you something that won't get you killed. Then we can begin your training. That gets taken care of in the next day or so."

"Or still want people to think your boobs are tiny," Naruto faintly smirked.

"Well... You can see how big they are for yourself while I try my new gear on~."

A few people were stunned when a demure hand rose, "I wouldn't mind a look if that's okay?" Aerith casually smiled.

Naruto did a doubletake at the declaration while Jessie's brow rose, "...Wow, I... didn't know you were into that."

A sly smirk crossed the Florist's lips, "You'd be surprised what I'm into."

'Why did she stare at me while saying that?' Tifa blinked, 'And why does it feel like she is undressing me?' the buxom barkeep slightly blushed.

On his part, the Uzumaki Sage shook his head before clearing his throat, "So... yeah, I want to get you three into more extensive training." He glances at Barret, "Your welcome to join."

Waving his normal hand, the big gun-wielder denied the offer. "You got your way. I got mine. Wouldn't mind keeping tabs on my underlings' progress, but I'll get stronger in my way."

"Suit yourself. Probably wouldn't be a fit for the training everyone else is doing, anyway." Naruto could respect the guy for wanting to do things himself; he just hoped it would be enough.

The blond Uzumaki looked back at his boss, who said, "And you will be doing your training privately?"

"Well, fighting Genesis made me realize just how dangerous a First-Class SOLDIER can be. I will need to step my game up if he decides to come back. Or Shinra sicks one of them on me."

Sofiya leaned back against her chair, "And you won't elaborate on this training."

"Sorry," Naruto gave an apologetic look, "But this is something of my clan I can remember, and it is a personal thing."

While she supposed it was fair that the Sage would want to keep his family's more personal training to himself, it still left her curious and a little worried as she saw the concern on Aerith's face, who glanced at her friend.

"Then that'll have to do." Standing up, arms under her bust, the scarred woman made it official. "This matter is to be kept between us. First class or not, Genesis is not a name we want to be throwing around. So, to prepare for him and any other new players coming around and sniffing about, Naruto's duties to the Watch are limited to priority assignments, so he has time to gain the strength he needs. I'll even throw a bonus payment so you can still handle your living situation with the lighter workload."

"Appreciate it, boss." From the corner of Uzumaki's eyes, he swore he saw those two ravens again from months ago near the window. Their beady black eyes looked right at him.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Hangi's eyes opened, smirking as he sat at an outside table of a restaurant in Wall Market, "That boy has been impressing me greatly." Satisfaction bore on the tall man's face, "To face whatever challenge comes with a fearless smile. Ahh, for an Heir of Rama's will to be upon our world."

Sitting opposite him at the table, Omkara sips her tea, "He will get suspicious with Huginn and Muninn keeping tabs on him."

"Hah! Very true; he is vastly more perceptive than he lets on. But for our lady's request. We must keep an eye on the boy. Despite proving himself otherwise."

"Considering the events of two millennia ago, she has every reason to be cautious," Omkara countered, "Moreover, with them suddenly vanishing as he appeared raises questions."

Hangi looked evenly at his comrade, "That can assume it was the architect of the boy's arrival for that."

"We still cannot find them; even your all-seeing abilities can find them out." The woman looked into her tea, nearly finished with her current cup. "I'm beginning to suspect an influence we should be even more active in finding than watching the boy."

A gruff noise of concern did erupt from the older man's throat. "My worry is less their power and more their intent. Bringing one of the Heirs of Rama's will isn't something a malicious god would do unless it were to eliminate them from their world. And if they are Benevolant, we should thank them for their aid."

The Heirs of Rama's Will.

Extremely rare individuals who bear the unbreakable determination and will to do what is right and fight against evil with a smile. Facing all injustices that plague the innocent. True undaunted heroes...

Though while, Gaia has never had such a person on her soil. Hangi and Omkara were well aware of their existence by their connection to their Counterparts within the multiverse.

But Omkara focuses back on the present. And the entity they know at least is divine. She honestly wasn't sure if this being was malevolent or benevolent. Never mind that it seems to remain around Midgar like a ghost. Manifesting and vanishing so sporadically, neither could track it properly.

And the events of a few weeks ago...

"This fellow compatriot seems to follow their agenda. If changing that monster into a pure demon that faced the boy and his new friends were any indication." Omkara conveyed.

Hangi nodded, "Very true. Perhaps testing him for what is to come. Or what might the young lad needs to become."

"Or to cause trouble." Grumbling a bit under her breath, Omkara could only hope she could fathom the mind of this wild being. "Until we know more, we cannot be sure, so we must find them instead of eyeing the boy. But we have our purpose, such as it is."

The man, with one eye visible, smiled a little. "Our Purpose is always as it is, and we perform it proudly. Besides, we may find this divine being when watching the boy. There is always a chance they will attempt to make contact, as slim as it is."

"Slim to nothing, you mean." The lady mentioned.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

With an enraged fist, Heidegger slammed onto the executive meeting board table. "How long will we be sitting on our hands and doing nothing!?" He growled. "All our reputations have been flung into the dirt days ago by that miscreant Ninja!"

"Uzumaki is rather creative. You have to give him that," Hojo quipped, cleaning his glasses while sitting in his chair.

Scarlet sent a glare that could have brought death upon the Science & Research Division head if she could. "Do you even care that your reputation has been destroyed?"

"My only concern is about science. Everything else is superficial."

"Superficial!? With our reputations dragged through the muck, everyone will be second-guessing our decisions if we don't put a boot to the neck to keep them from thinking we cannot handle some washed-out ninja!" If humans could foam at the mouth like dogs with rabid tendencies, the large and hairy man would be a mouthful of it.

The Head of Urban Development tried to diffuse the anger. "Even if it was him, we can't prove it. There's no evidence. Even Hojo's team thoroughly took the time to find something turned up nothing." Which was tame in comparison to the real search. Hojo was eager to have a sample of anything from the blonde Shinobi for his research. Turning up nothing was frustratingly unbelievable.

While the respected heads of public safety and weapons development seethed from the embarrassment, Palmer happily stirred his cup of tea with a spoon with barely any concern. "I'm not sure why you two are so upset. You both seem to be quite popular online."

Scarlet felt her eye twitch as she noticed the elderly executive was also grinning like a loon, peeking at his phone every other minute. "So help me, if you have a video of what I think you do? I'll chop it off and feed it to you." The space program head froze in place, paling.

At the head of the table, the President exhaled smoke from his handmade cigar. Unlike his subordinates, well, two of them. He remained calm and focused. Of course, he felt nothing more than anger and loathing towards the spectacle put on in his building days prior. But a man of his stature and position did have time for petty outbursts.

No, he kept his mind focused.

Naruto Uzumaki is a much different animal than Wutai or Avalanche.

"No evidence, no trail of genetic material, no idea how he managed to get that far into the building. Our security shouldn't be lacking in common sense. This tricky individual, Shinobi or otherwise, is more powerful than some of Hojo's deranged monsters. He is also guarding, or at least in a guarded position, around our greatest person of interest." Shinra took a drag of his smoke and brought up their recent reports of another land out there. "We cannot even find where he might have called home before coming here if we believe he isn't Wutai. Suppose there is such a place. It will take possibly years to scour the planet for it."

A wild theory propped in the head of their scientific leader. "Given his strange powers and his proximity to the Cetra girl... Is it possible he may hail from the Promised Land?"

Upon those words uttered, a silence took hold of the room. The anger faded from the gazes of Heidegger and Scarlet with a sharp glance from Reeve to the Scientist. Even Palmer stopped mid-drink of his tea to look over. "It is just a theory, though, of course." Hojo shrugged, adjusting his glasses.

The President leaned forward, "Is that possible?"

"With his sudden appearance and immense skill level thus far. We can not rule out anything."

Scarlett's demeanor softened enough to think about the implications. Legs crossing as she leaned back in her seat, she had to agree. We should stop using brute force tactics, monsters from Hojo's lab being part of that category. Instead of dead... Maybe we capture him, and if he is from the Promised Land, we might get there through him."

"My monsters, even one of my greatest that was stolen and made into an even greater monstrosity, haven't been able to defeat him; it would take significantly greater strength and power to kill him and possibly even more to capture him alive." As much as Hojo hated to admit that, he was inwardly grinning a storm. Adjusting his glasses, he thought to bring up the only power they had to match. "We still have our best-kept secret."

The large militaristic leader looked less than sold, but he did consider the implications. "That's a possibility... We can't afford to be hasty letting those forces off the leash."

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