Disclaimer, I don't own Naruto or DXD.
Sorry for the delay.
Life was weird.
Barely 3 weeks ago she was living a normal life.
She was living in a decent-sized house, raised by a loving single mother, went to school, and had friends.
It wasn't anything special, but she didn't complain.
That was a thing of the past.
Before her lay a canvas of grief-a grave, where memories slept beneath the weight of marble.
And there it was-the heartache etched in elegant script:
Ashe Naruse
Her mother's name, carved into a beautiful piece of white stone.
She traced the letters with trembling fingers, as if seeking solace in their curves and angles.
The world had shifted, and she was adrift, untethered from the familiar.
It didn't matter how much time passed, every time she saw her name, she remembered it.
The laughter of shared meals, the warmth of her hugs, all of the moments that her mother and herself shared.
Since she could remember she was always there.
If she was afraid, if she was hungry, hurt, happy, sad, it didn't matter if it was in the good times or the bad.
She was always there.
Not anymore.
Ashe Naruse, the woman who had cradled her dreams and wiped away tears, was now part of the earth itself. And she, the daughter left behind, grappled with the ache of absence.
Like every day, the redhead sat there, in front of her mother's grave, remembering her, wishing that this was all a nightmare.
She hoped that any moment now, her mother would awaken her, dry her tears, and tell her it was all just a nightmare.
But that moment never came.
This routine became familiar to her: she would come here every morning to mourn her mother.
After the first week, she began to spend less time in this place; the world no longer seemed so bleak.
All because of him.
Standing up, the redhead wiped her tears away. "You would have loved this place, Mom." she thought to herself as she looked around.
Hundreds of beautiful trees surrounded the grave, their white and pink petals dancing in the wind. A small waterfall on the left created a gentle stream.
Mio dusted herself off, getting rid of the dirt on her dark blue pants and long-sleeved shirt.
"Well, his clothes." she reminded herself, her mind drifting to her companion, looking in his direction, he was patiently waiting a couple dozen meters behind her, giving her the privacy she needed but also letting her know that he was here.
She was grateful to him.
Enigma
That was the first word that came to her when thinking of him.
He was an enigma. Ever since he saved her, he had remained steadfastly by her side. He lent her his clothes, prepared meals for her, and allowed her to cry into his chest until sleep claimed her each night. Without complaint, he slept in that chair, sitting right beside her, holding her hand.
Yet, the questions lingered:
Why?
Why did he save her?
Why did he care for her?
What were his intentions?
What was his ultimate objective?
For days, these questions plagued her mind. Fear crept in. What if he desired the same things as those malevolent demons? What if he merely toyed with her, exploiting her vulnerability? Did she possess some unique power that he coveted for himself?
The mere thought terrified her, even though it was just a small part of her consciousness harboring these doubts. But she couldn't bear to lose him. He had become too vital, too irreplaceable.
If this were an illusion, if he was merely pretending, would it be wrong to enjoy it for as long as possible?
After all, what could she do against him?
She drew a deep breath and stepped toward him.
Once close enough, she noticed it, a bird perched on his hand, and he caressed it with a beautiful smile. The bird promptly took flight as soon as it sensed her presence.
"I'm finished," the red-haired girl murmured, her voice barely audible, her head bowed.
"Mio," the blonde called out gently, his voice as soothing as a distant melody.
She looked up, her gaze meeting his. He stood nearly 30 centimeters taller than her, and she had to tilt her head to truly see him.
How could someone's eyes appear so beautiful?
And why did mere proximity to him make her feel safe?
It was a mystery, one that tugged at her heart.
"You've been spending less time here lately," he stated matter-of-factly, locking eyes with her. "I'll wait for as long as you need, you know that, right?"
The redhead shook her head lightly from side to side. "My mother was a happy woman. I never saw her look pessimistic about anything." She paused, gathering her thoughts. "But staying like this... I feel it would sadden her."
"Let's go then" The blonde decided to not pry further into it, noticing that her voice didn't tremble when she referred to her mother, that was good, besides it was her decision after all.
Seeing the blonde start walking, the redhead did so as well, making sure to be walking right by his side.
As they walked, she noticed that many of the tombs that were on the side of the small road were not there.
"Weird," the red-haired girl thought to herself. "I'm sure they were there yesterday."
The ninja, sensing her silent query, spoke softly. "I found their families, some of them. I returned the bodies."
"What about the rest?" Genuine curiosity laced her voice.
"They have no one," the blonde man replied, his eyes fixed ahead.
The girl decided to ask anything, she didn't like the silence between them.
"Why do we never teleport?" Mio had noticed the pattern: their respectful approach to her mother's grave, the solemn walk back, and only then they would teleport back.
He looked at her for a second, halting their steps. His gaze swept over the remaining tombs.
"Because they deserve to be remembered, to know that someone knows who they are." His answer hung in the air.
Mio frowned, perplexed. "But they are dead."
Naruto turned around and walked until he stood in front of two adjacent tombs.
Gently he put a hand in one of the tombs.
"Klein, He was barely six," he began, his voice carrying more than kindness and understanding this time. It was laced with rage, sadness and disgust. "His twin sister was sick. He made a deal with those demons."
Naruto paused, gathering his emotions. "They made him believe that everything was alright, but then he suffered the same fate as you. And I couldn't save him."
At that moment, The weight of unspoken grief and regret seemed to press down upon him.
"I'm being selfish, you know?" The blonde gazed at the names etched onto the white gravestones. Without turning around, he continued, his voice a mere whisper against the solemn backdrop.
"I couldn't save them," he confessed. "It wasn't my responsibility, but that doesn't erase the guilt that gnaws at me."
Mio stood there, her brow furrowed, trying to unravel the enigma before her.
Why would he feel guilty?
He didn't know these departed souls.
Noticing her confusion, the blonde clarified, his eyes distant. "I'm strong, I could have done more but I didn't, coming here, remembering them, it calms down the guilt I feel."
"So you come here," the redhead asked, still puzzled, "for the guilt of not saving them?"
"In part," he admitted. "If I had been more proactive and hunted down evil organizations, perhaps I could have saved them and many more. But I didn't."
"Why?" The word hung heavy in the air.
He resumed walking, and she followed closely.
"Because," he said, his steps deliberate, "I don't want my life consumed by chasing shadows. I have responsibilities, friends that I want to protect, dreams, and desires. I want to be happy, too."
Her next words slipped out, unbidden: "And yet you saved me, a demon, daughter of that man."
He noticed the disgust and hate in her words when referring to herself.
His gaze met hers, and the truth spilled forth. "If you truly share the blood of that man, abandoning you would have been the logical choice, anyone else would have done that."
No shinobi would have saved her unless that was their mission.
She held his gaze, unyielding. "But you didn't abandon me."
His voice softened. "No. I can't. Not now, not ever. To turn away from someone in need—to forsake compassion—I wouldn't be able to live with myself."
As he turned, she watched him, her eyes searching.
He was an enigma—a blend of guilt, duty, and a spark of humanity.
The redhead refrained from further comments, choosing instead to follow him silently as she relished his company.
After nearly a minute, they arrived at the entrance. The blonde extended his hand, and she accepted it. In an instant, they were back in the apartment.
"I'm going to buy some groceries; I'll be right back." he informed her, preparing to head out.
Mio hesitated for a moment. She hadn't ventured outside since everything had happened, The memory of the last time he wasn't by her side weighed heavily on her. She didn't want to be alone—or rather, she didn't want him to leave.
His presence served as a steadfast beacon, a comforting certainty in her tumultuous sea of thoughts. Yet, in his absence, a swarm of somber musings besieged her mind, relentless and unforgiving.
Memories of that fateful day lingered, haunting her.
Doubts about him surfaced.
What if he never returned?
What if more demons emerged from the shadows?
"Can I go with you?" Mio's voice was a whisper, barely audible.
The man, with hair like spun gold, offered a silent nod, his gesture an invitation to follow.
Thus, she approached the threshold just as he swung the door wide, revealing a world blanketed in white. The once vibrant townscape had surrendered to the hush of winter, buildings and trees alike adorned with a delicate frosting of snow.
A chill embraced her, a stark reminder of winter's embrace.
But before the frost could seep into her bones, warmth enveloped her—a jacket, cozy and familiar. It carried his scent, that soothing aroma that had lulled her into slumber these past days.
"Just like him." she thought, a smile tugging at her lips, as she recognized the comforting essence that had become her lullaby.
Once he closed the door, the both of them started walking, taking them barely a minute before getting out of the building, the more they walked the busier the streets became.
As faces multiplied and the hum of conversation intensified, a thread of apprehension wove through her, and a flicker of unease sparked within her. A solitary bead of sweat traced a path down her forehead, her breaths growing shallow and rapid. But before the anxiety could tighten its grip, she felt it—his touch.
His hand clasped hers, a silent vow of protection. Instinctively, her head sought refuge upon his shoulder, and within moments, her breathing steadied.
She didn't dare to let his hand go.
"Say, how about some ramen?" His voice broke through her reverie, brimming with an eagerness that was unmistakably genuine, his face alight with anticipation.
She had come to know this about him: his love for ramen was a simple, pure joy.
That smile, that unguarded expression of delight, was reserved for his cherished red scarf or a steaming bowl of noodles.
And his appetite for it was insatiable.
"There's a place I frequent." the blonde suggested, a hint of excitement in his tone, her grip on his hand tightened ever so slightly, a silent plea that perhaps now was not the time.
"Or we could make it ourselves." he offered, catching the subtle cue. She responded with a nod, grateful for his understanding.
As they continued, the cacophony of the city faded into a distant murmur, their shared silence a comfortable blanket. The idea of making a meal together, seemed to promise a reprieve from the world outside.
"That sounds perfect." she finally said, her voice a soft murmur against the backdrop of the town's symphony.
He glanced at her, a smile touching his eyes, and in that moment, the bustling streets transformed into mere scenery—a backdrop to the quiet connection that they shared.
It took them barely an hour, to buy the ingredients they needed.
Together, they turned away from the crowded avenues, their steps leading them towards the tranquility of home, where the simple act of cooking would become an intimate dance between two souls seeking solace in each other's company.
Naruto's apartment.
As a man, He wasn't all that complicated, growing up as an orphan and despised by almost everyone had taught him many things.
It was the crucible of his early years that distilled his values to their purest form
Not wealth, nor status, nor power held any allure for him.
the most important thing, the only thing that has value is people.
For Naruto, the true measure of worth lay in human connections—the bonds between people.
Observing the Third Hokage, revered and cherished, Naruto found his aspiration crystallized. To be a beacon of hope, to draw smiles as effortlessly as the sun coaxes blooms from buds, becoming Hokage, this became his quest.
From his youngest days, his yearning was clear: to be encircled by people who cared, to return to a home brimming with warmth, to be greeted by faces alight with joy at his mere presence.
Yet now, as he observed the redhead woman moving about the kitchen with a newfound delight in the culinary arts, a shadow fell upon his heart.
"I want to cook for you," she had said, her words a melody meant to bring joy. Here she was, a soul content in his company, finding pleasure in the act of cooking for him.
But within him stirred an unexpected guest—guilt.
Why? The question had woven itself into the fabric of his thoughts, persistent and probing.
The answer, when it surfaced, was as simple as it was profound: happiness. The happiness that bloomed from being needed, from being the protector. It was a feeling that filled him with light, even as it cast a shadow of guilt.
Yes, he had the Biju, the tailed beasts with whom he shared a bond of mutual guardianship. Their relationship was one of reciprocity, a symbiotic circle where care was both given and received.
But this—this was different. This was a human connection, a bond forged not of necessity but of choice, and it was both his solace and his burden.
In the quiet of the kitchen, with the gentle clatter of pots and the aroma of spices hanging in the air, Naruto grappled with the complexities of his own heart, a heart that sought to be the unwavering shield yet yearned for the simple joy of being someone's reason to smile. The dichotomy of his emotions painted a portrait of a man who was, perhaps, not as uncomplicated as he believed.
"You're overthinking it." Kurama's voice echoed within, a rumble of wisdom in the quiet of his mind.
"I know." Naruto exhaled, a wistful note in his mental voice. "I really missed when I was dumb."
The old him would have never questioned anything, taking everything at face value.
"You are still dumb." the biju teased, a chuckle resonating in their shared consciousness.
A faint smile graced Naruto's features, a brief respite from his inner turmoil.
"I'm unsure, did I save her because it was the right thing, or did I save her for my sake?"
Snorting the biju answered "You would have saved her regardless, so what if you're happy with her"
"It feels selfish," the shinobi countered, a frown creasing his brow.
"Naruto, consider this," Kurama pressed, his tone serious. "if making you happy by saving her and helping her, would it be better to have abandoned her?"
"NO!" The response burst from him, fierce and immediate. A pause, then a softer admission, "You might be right."
Not saving someone just because it makes him happy, just thinking about it was stupid.
"That's why you're still a fool" Kurama concluded, a note of affection hidden in the jest.
"The right action can also be the one that brings happiness, and that is no less noble."
Naruto mused those words, a newfound clarity dawning within him.
"You really are wise." he acknowledged, addressing the fox spirit within.
"Of course, I am. I'm the strongest and wisest of the Biju." Kurama proclaimed, a statement of fact that needed no validation.
As the conversation within faded, Naruto's attention was drawn to the redhead's contented humming. She was immersed in her task, a melody of joy in her tune. He turned his focus to a book, summoning it from a seal on his arm.
Shinobi Tactics by Sarutobi Hiruzen
The tome, written by the revered Third Hokage, was a compendium of battle strategies and wisdom. It detailed the art of utilizing shinobi tools, the synergy of elemental ninjutsu, and the philosophy of conservation in chakra usage.
"A kunai wielded by a master is deadlier than the most potent jutsu in the hands of a novice." he read, the words resonating with his own experiences.
The book emphasized the essence of deception in combat: "Every jutsu cast should serve as a feint, a step in the intricate dance of warfare. A shinobi of the Leaf must be resourceful, their strategies as numerous as the leaves in the forest, If a jutsu succeeds, it is well; if it fails, and you have relied solely upon it, then your team faces peril." the text warned.
Naruto absorbed the teachings, a reminder that in the life of a shinobi, adaptability and foresight were the keys to survival and protection of those dear to him
He continued to read.
Let the following live inside your mind for those who carry the will of fire.
The Art of Subterfuge and the Element of Surprise
In the realm of shinobi, the element of surprise is your greatest ally. Strike from the shadows, and let the enemy feel safe in the light. A shinobi must be like the wind—felt, but never seen. Your approach should be silent, your departure unnoticed.
The Harmony of Teamwork
No shinobi is an island. Your strength is amplified by the unity of your team. Trust in your comrades, and let that trust be mutual. Each member is a vital piece of a greater puzzle. When one moves, all must adapt, creating a fluid and unstoppable force.
The Wisdom of Retreat
There is no shame in retreat when it serves a greater purpose. To flee is not to show cowardice, but to value life—yours and your comrades'. Live to fight another day, and know that in survival, there lies the opportunity for future victory.
The Legacy of the Leaf
Remember, you carry the will of fire within you. The legacy of the Leaf is not just of battle and blood—it is a legacy of hope, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit to protect those we hold dear. Let this be your guiding light, your unwavering path.
He wanted to continue reading, but the arrival of a steaming bowl of ramen and a refreshing cup of water beckoned him to pause.
"I'll read it later." he decided, setting the book aside with a soft thud, anticipation growing as he awaited Mio's company at the table.
Together, they offered a brief but heartfelt "thanks for the food" and commenced their meal. Or rather, he did, for it took no time at all for him to realize Mio was not eating, Instead, she watched him with expectant eyes.
"Why is she look... Ohhhh."
it dawned on him as he savored the ramen, the flavors bursting across his palate. He wiped his mouth, clearing his throat before speaking.
"That was some of the best food I ever had, thanks Mio" His words were sincere; the act of someone cooking for him because they wanted, made the meal taste divine.
Her smile was his reward, a silent testament to her joy at his approval.
"I can cook from now on," Mio offered tentatively, "I mean, if you want."
He hesitated, knowing she owed him nothing, yet the desire for such a simple pleasure—a warm meal prepared for him—was undeniable.
"I'd like that," he responded warmly. "but Mio, don't force yourself to do anything you don't want, ok?"
"I want to do this, I know it's not much in comparison but well..." She trailed off, words failing her.
"If you really want to do it, then please do so," Naruto encouraged. "Actually, there's something I wanted to talk to you about."
Her attention snapped back to him, a flicker of concern crossing her features as he took a sip of water, bracing himself for the conversation ahead.
"I normally don't stay in a town too long, and I've been here for more than a month already," he began, pausing as he noticed the change in her demeanor—the smile gone, her hands clenched, her breath caught.
His hand found hers, a gesture that had become a comforting habit."Let me rephrase it, we should move," he corrected, noting her puzzled look.
Mio, for her part, was calming down, having feared he would leave her behind. She chose not to question why he included her in his plans.
"Why do you travel so much?" she inquired, curiosity coloring her tone.
"I can't stay in one place for too long, especially not where too many yokai live." he answered simply.
"Yokai?" she echoed, confusion evident in her voice.
"You know they are like uhmm... human with animal parts or animal but with the body of a man, like hmm... " he stopped, trying to find the words to describe them without insulting them.
"I know what yokai are." she said, easing his concern. "But why can't you stay where they live?"
"Well, if I stay too long, the yokai begin to fear and leave. For example, this town had 167 yokai before I arrived; since two weeks ago they started to leave, now there are only 28." he revealed, her confusion deepening.
"Why?" she saw him shrug his shoulders.
"Nature loves me as much as it hates youkai's, if I stay too much, my presence becomes something that they can feel since the natural energy becomes incredibly abundant, nature gathers and in a way, it tries to protect me, they can feel some of my power and the whole hate of nature, it terrifies them." He explained to her in the most simple way he could think of.
"But, Why would nature hate them?" she didn't know a thing of the supernatural, other than demons existed and apparently Yokai did too.
"think of it like this, I am like an ice cream of two flavors, and nature energy is chocolate chips, when you taste it, it's delicious and mother nature loves it" he explained to her, "but youkai take those chocolate chips, smash them to pieces, piss on it and then they put salt on it, and then they force it down mothers nature troat, so obviously she hates that."
He nodded to himself, mentally patting himself on the back for his genius way of explaining things, blissfully ignoring the shouts of his tenant.
"He's jealous, he isn't as awesome at explaining things as I do."
Mio's voice, tinged with uncertainty, broke through his self-congratulation. "I think I understand, but if they leave, wouldn't it be better if you stayed in one place?"
The logic was seemingly sound—his presence would ensure Yokai wouldn't have to abandon their homes.
"Because, if I stay for far too long, they may create a strike force to hunt me down, or worse their gods will do it for them." he explained, the simplicity of his words belying the complexity of the situation.
"So you are afraid of them, are the gods really that strong?" Mio asked, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and concern.
Obviously, he might be strong but, he must have his limits too, in that case, moving from town to town would be the best choice.
Or so she thought.
He could only chuckle in response, his laughter light and untroubled.
He took his plate, bringing it to his mouth, After finishing his meal, he wiped his face, meeting her gaze with unwavering confidence.
He looked at her straight in the eyes.
"I'm not afraid of them, being honest, the gods, like all of the supernatural, are one trick ponies, arrogant and full of themselves" the ninja informed her "If they decide to attack me, or worse yet, attack you, I would have to kill them."
A month prior, the mere mention of taking a life would have sent shivers down her spine, but now, as he spoke of such deeds with a disarming simplicity, she found herself enveloped in an odd sense of security.
Before she could ponder the implications of her newfound comfort, he interjected with a casual observation. "It's going to get cold," he noted, watching her pause, chopsticks in hand.
"What is real?" she asked, her question hanging in the air like a mist. "I mean, the supernatural... what's real and what isn't?"
He gestured for her to continue her meal, which she did, albeit with a hint of reluctance.
"so, to put it simply, every story you have heard, every god or creature is real." he revealed to her "Ghosts, Youkai, Angels, Devils, Fallen angels, ghouls, Succubus, vampires... well everything."
He waited patiently as she continued to eat.
She paused, her ramen momentarily forgotten. "And you've battled them?" Curiosity laced her words.
With a simple nod, he affirmed her query.
"Even gods?" The concept of a mortal clashing with the divine was a tapestry too intricate for her mind to weave, yet she believed him without a shadow of a doubt.
Noticing her eagerness he decided to explain with a little more detail this time.
"There was a Primordial Goddess sealed within the moon for a millennium. A man, deceived by her immortal son, released her, she wanted to create a tree that would have trapped everyone in an eternal illusion, then it would consume everyone and give birth to a fruit that would have made her a 100 times more powerful, we fought across dimensions and finally, after a week of fighting, I killed her." He told her, like it was something as mundane as going on a walk in the park.
To her, however, his words were anything but mundane. Shock was an understatement; she sat frozen, as she stared at him with wide, incredulous eyes.
Rising from his seat, Naruto moved with a purposeful ease that seemed to shrink the small kitchen. He ladled more ramen into his bowl, the steam rising like mist over a calm pond. Returning to his place at the table, he resumed his meal with a vigor that spoke of a life lived in extremes.
Indeed, Naruto Uzumaki defied the ordinary, his every action tinged with the extraordinary.
"He sounds more like a superhero..." Mio mused silently, her gaze following his every move. The genuine concern he harbored for others, the way he carried himself, the earnestness in his voice—it was almost too ideal, too pure.
"He even saved the world." she thought, a mix of awe and disbelief coloring her contemplation.
As she watched him, a realization dawned on her: Naruto was not just a man with a storied past; he was a living legend, a beacon of hope in a world riddled with shadows. His tales were not just stories—they were chapters of history, etched into the fabric of reality.
And yet, here he was, sharing a simple meal, discussing the complexities of the supernatural as if they were common fare. It was this dichotomy, this blend of the mundane and the magnificent, that left her both enchanted and perplexed.
Naruto caught her gaze, a knowing look in his eyes. "It's a lot to take in, isn't it?" he said, his voice a gentle rumble.
Mio nodded, her mind still wrestling with the enormity of his revelations.
"There's more to this world than meets the eye," he continued, "and sometimes, those who possess power find themselves in battles to the death. what I do, It's not about seeking glory or recognition—it's about doing what's right."
He paused, his gaze on her "And sometimes, doing what's right means standing alone in the darkness, so that others might live in the light."
Like a Ninja should.
In that moment, Mio understood that Naruto's heroism was not born from a desire to be lauded as a savior, but from a deep-seated need to ensure that no one else would have to endure the pain of being alone.
As they continued their meal, they sat in comfortable silence, two souls connected by a shared meal and a world of unspoken understanding.
Naruto's gaze lingered on hers, his eyes shining like a star, much like the role he had unwittingly assumed in the lives of many.
Mio, still processing the gravity of his words, found comfort in his eyes. She realized that heroes were not just figures of grandeur and might; they were also the ones who sat beside you, sharing stories and meals, their greatness woven into the fabric of their humility.
"The world is vast, Mio, filled with wonders and terrors alike. But it's also home to moments like these—simple, quiet, and real." He sounded genuinely happy.
She nodded, her heart finding solace in the simplicity of the moment. "It's strange." she began, "how life can be so painful and yet so peaceful."
He smiled, a soft upturn of his lips that held a lifetime of battles and a peace hard-won. "That's the beauty of it, isn't it? The chaos and the calm, they're two sides of the same coin. And sometimes, it's in the midst of chaos that we find something invaluable."
Kurama and the Biju came to his mind.
The conversation drifted into a comfortable lull, the kind that only occurs when words are no longer necessary. They sat together, two souls adrift in the vastness of existence, yet anchored by the shared understanding that, in the end, it's not the battles that define us, but the peace we make with the world and within ourselves.
As their meal continued, Mio found herself grateful for the presence of this extraordinary man—this guardian, this friend who had shown her that even in a world brimming with the supernatural, with evil, there was still hope.
And Naruto, with each quiet breath, reaffirmed his silent vow to protect, to guide, and to be the shield against the darkness, so that those he cared for could bask in the light of ordinary stars on an ordinary night.
25 bowls of ramen later.
Mio stood patiently outside the modest building, her eyes following Naruto as he concluded his brief conversation with the landlord. Within moments, he was striding towards her, that characteristic smile gracing his features.
"Well, that's settled. We should get going," he announced cheerfully.
She didn't hesitate, immediately falling into step beside him, her arm linking with his. Yet, he paused, causing her to cast him a quizzical glance.
He gestured towards a sleek car parked nearby. "We're traveling in style this time."
Her eyes widened in disbelief. "But... how can you afford this?" she asked, incredulity lacing her words.
"Why wouldn't I be able to?" he replied, his tone light.
She gestured towards the humble abode they had called home for the past month. "But we were staying here." she pointed out, her voice trailing off.
A moment of understanding flashed across his face, followed by a nonchalant shrug. "I'm kind of rich." he admitted casually.
Even an average chunin's earnings were 50 times greater than an average citizen back home, and they were all paid with bronze, silver, or gold coins, let alone his own wealth accumulated from various sources: mission rewards multiplied by his use of shadow clones, inheritances from his parents and master, and the Uzumaki treasure. Wealth had accumulated like leaves in the fall, yet he remained indifferent to its lure.
"But you chose to live there." she whispered, gesturing to their former residence.
"True, but luxury never mattered much to me. A bed and running water were enough," he said, reflecting on the spartan lifestyle of a shinobi.
She pointed at the car, a symbol of opulence that seemed at odds with his simplicity. "This is the most expensive thing I've ever seen."
He acknowledged her point with a nod. "I usually prefer to walk or run, but I didn't want to make you uncomfortable." he explained, his consideration for her comfort shining through.
Mio was momentarily speechless.
She wanted to protest, telling him that this was completely unnecessary but she stopped herself, if he went to so much trouble for her, should she tell him?
In the end, she decided against it.
"Thank you" She said such simple words and yet, the smile he gave was truly breathtaking.
Yeah, not telling him was the right choice.
He opened the door for her, there was a chivalry in his actions that felt both old-fashioned and endearing. She slid into the passenger seat, enveloped by the car's luxurious embrace. He joined her promptly, his presence a steady constant as the engine came to life with a gentle roar.
The journey began, the world outside transforming into a blur of colors and shapes as they moved through the streets. Mio stole glances at Naruto, who navigated the roads with a serene focus. His ease behind the wheel mirrored the confidence with which he approached life, a confidence that was not boastful but simply a part of who he was.
"Where are we going?" A question that just now passed through her thoughts.
"You know," he began, "I don't know."
She laughed, and after a couple of moments, he joined her.
The conversation turned to light topics as they drove, the atmosphere in the car warm and comfortable. Naruto shared anecdotes from his travels, each story a thread in the rich tapestry of his life. Mio listened, her laughter mingling with his, as the miles slipped away beneath them.
As the journey continued, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow that seemed to bless their new beginning. Mio felt a sense of adventure stirring within her, a feeling of anticipation for the unknown paths they would tread together.
Naruto's life, she realized, was a testament to the belief that one could possess the world's riches and yet find contentment in the simplest of joys—a bowl of ramen, a shared laugh, a starry night. And as they traveled onward, she knew that she, too, was ready to embrace the beauty of a simple life, with Naruto by her side.
The road stretched out before them, an open invitation to the future, and as the first stars of the evening began to appear, Mio felt a profound gratitude for the journey ahead, with a companion who was a hero not just in strength, but in spirit.
11:35 PM
Naruto could sense her gaze, her pink eyes looking straight at him.
A cold bead of sweat went down his forehead, his hands were sweaty.
"You are not helping!" A scream was directed at his best friend.
"BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA" The response was a bellowing laugh from Kurama, the biju's amusement echoing in his mind. "Right, right, sor—BWAHAHAHAHA." the fox managed between fits of laughter.
The reason?
He forgot to fill the tank of the car.
In a bid to salvage what was left of his pride, Naruto stepped out of the vehicle, Mio following close behind. He surveyed the empty landscape with feigned approval. "Yup, this place is perfect." he declared, a bit too loudly.
"There is literally nothing here." Mio retorted, her skepticism clear as she scanned her surroundings.
"Ah, but that's the beauty of it! We'll be sleeping here tonight, isn't that great? We should also enjoy nature, you know." he replied with an enthusiasm that didn't quite reach his eyes, his smile now strained under her scrutinizing look.
She was still looking at him.
He stood frozen, his smile waning under the weight of her silent questioning. Then, an idea sparked. With a swift hand seal, the earth began to transform. Wood sprouted and twisted, growing into the shape of a cozy two-story house complete with a welcoming terrace.
Mio's expression shifted from incredulity to wonder, her eyes wide as she took in the sudden appearance of the house. She offered him an apologetic look, which he met with a reassuring smile.
"You are awesome Naruto." He congratulated himself.
Naruto motioned for her to enter, which she did, it wasn't really all that amazing, everything was made out of wood, but she seemed excited, touching the wood as if to prove to herself that it was real.
For his part, the Blonde went to one of the rooms on the left, and there it lay a bathtub made of wood, channeling a little bit of his chakra, he watched as the water gathered from the atmosphere, and in barely a second the bathtub was full, he put his hand inside it, this time he channeled fire chakra to his hand, being careful to not make it to hot, he then applied a preservation seal on the bottom of the bathtub, that way it wouldn't get cold.
His satisfaction was evident as he emerged from the room, only to find Mio engaged in her own exploration of the wooden house, Her curiosity, so pure and unguarded, drew a genuine smile from him.
"Mio, you can take a shower now." he offered, his voice carrying a warmth that seemed to fill the space.
Caught in her innocent investigation, Mio froze, suddenly self-conscious. The flush that spread across her cheeks was a vibrant echo of her fiery hair. Yet, she recovered gracefully, standing tall despite the embarrassment that had momentarily claimed her.
"Thank you, Naruto," she said, her voice steady, though the softness in her eyes betrayed her lingering shyness. "This... this is all so new to me."
He nodded, understanding the unspoken words behind her gratitude. "Take your time." he reassured her, his tone gentle.
And she did, stepping into the bathroom, she took her clothes off, giving herself an appreciative look, She always had problems because of it, one way or another, either girls being jealous of her appearance or boys lusting after her.
They were always ignored, that's what her mother had taught her, Ignore them and just be yourself, with time those who are worthy will stay by you're side.
And yet, he doesn't look at you like that, you're unworthy of him, you are a demon.
A small part of her consciousness whispered.
She shook her head lightly from side to side, getting rid of those thoughts.
Mio surrendered to the warmth of the water, a sensation that seemed to wash away more than just the physical remnants of the day. It was a cleansing of the soul, a moment of pure tranquility.
"Ahhhh" A sigh of satisfaction escaped her lips, it was weird, the water felt divine, it eased away the tension that had knotted her muscles, the stress that had clouded her mind.
As she settled deeper into the bath, her eyes fell upon the open door, She didn't close it, A flicker of concern sparked within her, the instinctual reaction to vulnerability. Yet, it was quickly quelled by the realization that it was only Naruto nearby. The man who had shown her time and again that he was a guardian, a friend, and perhaps something more.
Panic should have filled her, but it didn't for some reason.
"There's only Naruto." The redhead reasoned with herself, and yet, "Shouldn't I be afraid?" she pondered, her thoughts a quiet murmur amidst the gentle sounds of the water. But the fear didn't come. Instead, there was an odd sense of security, a trust that had been built.
And if he took a peek?
The thought of him possibly catching a glimpse of her naked body should have unsettled her, yet it did not. It was a curious shift from the anxiety that just this morning gripped her in the presence of others. Now, the idea of Naruto's eyes on her did not evoke fear but an inexplicable anticipation.
It was a realization that left her both confused and intrigued. How had he made her think like this in such a short span?
He had saved her, avenged her mother, protected her, given her a home, and gave her a reason to smile, to keep going.
Was it because she was a Demon or maybe she was just confused or maybe she had developed feelings for him?
Whatever the reason, did it matter?
"He's human, a hero and I'm a demon."
Even if she fell in love with him, there was nothing she could do.
"He is completely out of my league."
As she soaked in the warmth of the bath, Mio contemplated the enigma of her emotions. The water, like Naruto's presence, seemed to wash away the remnants of her old fears, leaving her in a state of serene openness.
"Why do I have to be a demon"
Mio's thoughts were interrupted by the soft knock of the door, Her heart skipped a beat, not out of fear, but a strange, burgeoning hope. She didn't turn to look, didn't need to. The light shuffle of footsteps told her all she needed to know—Naruto was outside the bathroom.
There was no malice in his approach, and sadly he didn't step in. Instead, he spoke, his voice a gentle intrusion into her reverie.
"Mio, Are you alright?" His concern was palpable, maybe now was not the time, but the moment her negative emotions skyrocketed, he grew worried.
She found herself smiling, a small, genuine curve of her lips that felt more natural than any mask she had worn before. "Yes, Naruto, I'm fine. Just... thinking."
He paused, as if considering her words, the silence between them a comfortable blanket. "Do you want to talk about it?" he offered.
It was an invitation, one that Mio realized she wanted to accept, but, should she?
"I'm fine, thank you." She responded.
"You sure?"
She stood quiet for a moment.
"Why do you take care of me?, after saving me you could have left me on my own" She questioned him, the need to know was simply too much for her.
Was she like anyone else?
just someone that needed help, and he simply offered it?
Mio looked down at her body.
"Maybe that's what he wants?"
That idea should have disgusted her but it didn't.
"I told you before didn't I" he started, giving a soundless sigh he continued "I'm being selfish."
"What does that even mean?"
"is just... this... you..."he tried explaining but he kept messing up, taking a deep breath, he recomposed himself.
"You know, I was alone all my life, my parents died protecting me the day I was born, I grew up hated and alone." Normally revealing anything like this was not something that he would do, but after training with Bee he had begun to feel a certain pride in all of those painful memories.
She sat there listening.
"The pain I feel of being alone is not something I can describe." He revealed to her "Having you by my side, the fact that you need me, and that you smile because of me, even if it's selfish, it makes me feel happy."
He waited for her response.
Was he being a bad person?
He was kind of using her, wasn't he?
"Pft haha haha" Her laughter filled his ears, sincere and pure, in a way it was comforting.
After a couple of seconds of waiting for her to calm down, she spoke.
"You talk as if you were doing something bad." her tone now firm."I'm happy being with you too, and there's nothing wrong with that."
"I know but ..." he knew there was nothing wrong with being happy, but in a way, it felt wrong.
Mio got out of the bath, putting on the clothes he gave her all those weeks ago, they were clean. because he put some "Seals" as he called them, in the fabric of the clothes.
She got out of the room, immediately noticing how he was standing there, looking to the right, as if afraid of seeing something that he shouldn't.
Mio pinched his arm lightly, calling his attention." If you feel bad for it, there is a way you can make it up to me."
His inoccent gaze made her breath get stuck in her throat for a second, Hopefully, he wouldn't deny her this.
He may be out of her league, but for now, she'll be selfish.
Like a demon should.
She shook those thoughts away.
"One day he'll find someone worthy of being by his side, someone who will make him truly happy, but for now?"
She was going to enjoy Naruto Uzumaki for as long as she could.
A couple hours later inside Naruto's seal.
"Everything is proceeding as planned." Kurama mused to himself, content with the developments.
The bond between the two was flourishing, rapidly and beautifully, with some credit due to his subtle influence.
Ordinarily, he wouldn't hesitate to sway the girl to his will, especially if it meant Naruto's happiness.
Yet, he refrained. Not out of a change of heart, but for a reason far more straightforward—if Naruto were to discover any manipulation after forging a bond with her, it would shatter him.
Kurama had to be astute, to navigate this delicately.
Direct manipulation was off the table, but there were other methods.
He needed only to reveal the truth.
From the first night Naruto remained at her side, as he drifted into slumber, Kurama had forged a "Bridge" between their souls.
She received no explicit knowledge from him, but subconsciously, the redhead was coming to understand the essence of Naruto Uzumaki—the man he truly is.
As the nights passed, the "Bridge" Kurama had created became a conduit of unspoken understanding, Mio, though unaware of the mystical link, felt an inexplicable familiarity with Naruto, as if layers of his soul were gently being unveiled to her.
He didn't need to do anymore, Naruto's actions this past few weeks were enough to make sure that this Bond they created would not be broken on her part, now, only Naruto could break it.
This was satisfactory for the time being.
Naruto, though he never let it show, was enduring profound pain.
He did as he had always done—persevered, regardless of the circumstances.
Such was the shinobi way, the path he had been taught to follow.
Now, the challenge was to help Naruto recognize his true desires.
But what were they?
Merely friendship?
No, Kurama was certain the blond sought something deeper.
"The happiest moment of his life."
The question was clear; he needed to discover what brought him joy.
His parents.
The bond they shared. Kurama needed only to guide Naruto to the realization that Mio could be a suitable partner.
But how?
Naruto wouldn't view her in that light, not yet. Given her past, Naruto would resist such thoughts, fearing he might be taking advantage of her.
Kurama laid his head upon his paws.
"Dreams." he mused. Yes, that was the key. He would simply have to nudge Naruto towards dreams that revealed his heart's true yearnings.
Yes, that would suffice.
A soft chuckle bubbled up from within him, escalating into a resounding, almost theatrically malevolent laugh.
"What's gotten into you, you stinky fox?!" came a shout.
Kurama halted, turning towards the voice.
"Oh Fuck me."
End
Well this past three weeks I've been feeling like shit, I got Dengue, and man I never felt so shitty in my life.
This chapter took me a lot longer to write but hopefully is better than the last.
I've been reading some of my favorite books, The lord of the Rings books, some Halo, SW, and SH.
Also some of my favorite stories on this site, i was reading "Something you can't ignore." and not gonna lie the last chapters did make me mad.
And some of my all-time favorite Naruto DXD stories that aren't that long.
"Daredevil" and "Demon misplaced"
Some of the only stories that I kind of liked Rias and Akeno respectively.
"Servant I think not" read that too, I remember that I liked that, but man Naruto being such a manwhore was off-putting, then not caring that this girl killed millions, and not only didn't give a fuck but he actually slept with her was really weird.
it made me really dislike that Naruto.
So I tried to show in this chapter a more "Canon" Naruto, hopefully, I managed it.
One of the things that I don't like is how in a lot of stories, when a girl is not a love interest or the MC is not friends with a certain group, they make them act evil and ooc.
They are also afraid of having Naruto do anything against a faction if he is friend with someone or has a relationship with a girl of said faction.
Even if Naruto ends up with someone from a faction It doesn't mean he Is their Ally, for example, with the devils, he Is going to do what he believes is right, consequences be dammed.
Naruto doesn't care about what the gods or a bunch of elders say.
This is one of the reasons I went with a more Shinobi Naruto.
And let's make this clear, The entirety of the supernatural or at the very least 90% is going to suffer a lot more than in canon.
The only races that will truly benefit from Naruto's existence is going to be Humanity and The angels.
Now are Naruto and Mío going to kuoh?
Yes, but I wanted to give a good reason for It, basically to make Mio not hate her devil side, and no, Naruto Is not going to school, he Is going to be doing His own stuff,
A lot of the things that happened in Canon are not going to happen here, including one major thing in the series, for the simple fact that Naruto Is in kuoh.
Asia, the marriage between rías and Riser, the Kokabiel attack, the meeting of the factions.
Everything Is going to change, some of the things I'm going to do, well, I don't think anyone has done It before, I might be wrong though.
Originally I was gonna make him travel with Mio, but then decided against It, for now.
Some of the stuff I had planned Would make Naruto be known too fast, so I scrapped that idea for one simple reason.
Naruto is not going to like the gods, dare I say he will be completely disgusted with their existence.
not with all of them, but 80% of them will die if Naruto meets them.
if you know a little about the gods then you will understand why.
Also, no bashing, I won't make characters act worse than in canon, But some characters are gonna react in different ways to different people.
For example for Mío, She will feel complete hatred and disgust for Issei, Riser, Odin, or anyone who shows his perversion.
But on the other hand, She will not only tolerate but actually encourage Naruto to be more perverted.
Naruto is going to be neutral to Issei, not caring about him but not hating him either.
Never really understood why they think that naruto, a shinobi has to train and share all of his knowledge to people he barely knows, even in canon he doesn't do that.
Sirzechs and Azazel will find him amusing.
Well, you catch what I'm trying to say.
Also, there Will be no overly stupid people, unless that's how they act in canon.
For example:
Riser insults someone Naruto cares about, then Naruto shows his power, making him cower in fear.
5 minutes latter: "Ahh Today i would show you, insignificant human, the power of a High-class Devil." Riser exclaims arrogantly.
Well something like that.
Like always review if you want to give any suggestions or criticism, please do so.
But remember to be polite or I'm just going to ignore it.
And yes I do read and take into account all of your reviews.
Also If you guys keep giving me so many good candidates to the harem, I'm going to have to make it bigger.
1-Mio
2-Serafall and Sona.
3-?
4-?
5-?
Yeah, i make Serafall and Sona a combo, since some of you gave me some really good "Reasons".
I'm such a perv.