Chapter 10 They're multiplying.
After weeks of rigorous training, the completion of the bridge marked a significant milestone for Naruto, Fuka, and the rest of Team 7. With heartfelt farewells exchanged with the bridge builder, they embarked on their journey homeward. Days passed on the road until they reached the familiar sights of Konoha. It was here they parted ways: Kakashi, dutiful as ever, made his way to the Third Hokage's office to deliver the mission report.
Meanwhile, Karin and Sasuke departed in tandem, leaving Sakura behind. Desperate to catch up, Sakura trailed them, only to watch them disappear into Karin's home, her frustration boiling over into an audible outcry. Meanwhile, Naruto and Fuka made their way through the crowded streets of Konoha. To avoid unwanted attention, Naruto cloaked himself in a transformation jutsu, shrouding his features in anonymity. Confusion painted Fuka's expression as she observed Naruto's disguise, prompting her to question his unusual attire.
"Why the disguise?" She inquired, her curiosity evident as they navigated through the bustling thoroughfares.
"I'll explain later." Naruto responded cryptically, opting to keep his motives veiled for the time being. Together, they traversed the familiar paths of Konoha, turning into Naruto's own secluded forest sanctuary. Their journey eventually led them to the tranquil embrace of the forest, where Tenten awaited, diligently practicing her combat techniques outside Naruto's house.
"So, this is your roommate? Looks like you've already got another girl." Fuka teased, her playful tone eliciting a bashful response from Naruto.
He shook his head rapidly.
"No, she's not my roommate. For now, she's just a friend." He explained, feeling a little embarrassed. Tenten's eyes lit up brightly as she saw Naruto, rushing over quickly to give him a hug and spin him around.
"You're finally back! I've been worried sick about you." She exclaimed with a warm and gentle tone, unable to contain her excitement. Naruto couldn't help but blush, his head nestled against her chest.
Fuka, observing the scene, had a strange aura around her as she stared at the two of them. Naruto broke away from Tenten's embrace. However, Tenten, refusing to let go, puffed up her cheeks before grabbing him again.
"Oh no you don't. I'm not letting you go." Tenten declared with a determined voice, unwilling to release the fox boy. Naruto blushed heavily, feeling her chest against his face.
"Umm...Tenten, I have some news." He finally managed to say, catching her attention. Tenten realized where Naruto's head had been and blushed, quickly offering an apology.
"Oh, I'm so sorry Naruto. I just missed you, and, you know, the rest of Team Three is worried about you." She stated matter-of-factly, trying to come up with an excuse.
Naruto waved away Tenten's apology.
"It's fine, I understand. I miss you a lot, Tenten, and Team 3." He spoke sincerely, causing her heart to skip a beat. However, Fuka interrupted with a cough, drawing their attention.
"My name is Fuka Uzumaki." She announced, "Naruto's lover. And who are you?" Her question carried a subtle challenge, marking her territory. Naruto could feel the tension in the air, unsure of how to diffuse the situation. Tenten, undeterred, stepped forward.
"Oh, I'm Naruto's teammate slash best friend. And the first girl he said he loved." She retorted, refusing to back down. Naruto took a step back, sensing the escalating tension. Fuka stepped forward, extending her hand. Tenten met her hand, and they began to shake.
"I stole his first kiss." Fuka whispered, her voice carrying a menacing tone. Tenten smirked, showing she wasn't backing down.
"Well, I've known him longer. And honestly, it doesn't take much for Naruto to fall in love with somebody." Tenten said, inadvertently calling out Naruto's tendency to develop feelings quickly. It was true; if any girl was just nice to him, he would likely fall for her. Sensing the need to intervene, Naruto stepped in between them, a bold move to diffuse the tension.
"Fuka, please let me take your things. I'll place them in your room. Tenten, can you do me a favor and show Fuka around the village since I can't?" He asked, his tone calm and gentle, dispersing the brewing turmoil between the two women. Fuka smiled at Naruto, her affection for him evident in her gaze.
"Sorry about being territorial. I'd rather not do this in front of Naruto. Besides, we both have the same feelings for him." Fuka spoke calmly, her demeanor softened by a touch of elegance. Tenten nodded in agreement, her interest piqued.
"Sorry about that. I just... um... forget about it. My name is Tenten." She stumbled over her words, feeling a bit embarrassed. Returning Fuka's smile, Tenten shifted her focus back to Naruto, only to witness an unexpected display of affection. Fuka moved towards Naruto, planting a wet kiss on his lips. Their tongues danced briefly before breaking away, leaving Tenten blushing profusely and feeling awkward in the presence of their intimacy.
As the two lovers exchanged kisses, Fuka brushed her thumb against Naruto's cheek, her voice laced with sweetness.
"Hey honey, can I have some money to buy some new clothes?" She asked in a seductive tone. Naruto obliged, pulling out some cash from his pocket and handing her a decent amount. Observing the exchange, Tenten couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy as she pounded her cheeks in frustration. Naruto stepped closer to her, offering her some money as well.
"Here's some for yourself, buy something nice." Naruto said, uncertain if he was doing the right thing, but driven by the desire to make Tenten happy. Fuka, standing behind Naruto, wrapped her arms around him in a hug, planting a kiss on his neck before whispering in his ear.
"Don't worry, I'll make sure she brings back something nice to wear. Just go inside and relax. You've had a long day carrying us back." Fuka Spoke in a seductive tone.
"Okay, you two, take care now. Be safe out there. Oh, before I forget, I have luck charms for you. If anything happens, please channel chakra to them, and I'll be there." Naruto spoke warmly as he handed the two women in his life a gift. Tenten was happy for Naruto, seeing the way he smiled Fuka grabbed Tenten, dragging her away.
"Come on, girl, let's go get some new clothes. Maybe I can help you out with your little fox boy problem." She whispered the last part, causing Tenten to blush.
"Wait... what?" She spoke, confused as she was being pulled along. Naruto waved goodbye to the two girls in his life before summoning a paper clone to unpack Fuka's luggage. As Naruto grabbed a fishing pole and headed to his favorite spot, he felt the cool breeze hit his face, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
"This is how to relax after a long mission." Kurama spoke out, also relishing the calm breeze and warm sun. However, before they could fully relax, a figure appeared in front of them, hovering above the air. Naruto's eyes fixed on the figure, noting the man's pale skin and matching attire, complete with an energy gourd and fishing pole.
"Excuse me, but this is my fishing spot. Please leave." Naruto grumbled, his eyes turning red. Suddenly, he was pulled into the mind space, standing in front of the fox demon's cage.
"Naruto, don't hold back during this fight. He has a Rinnegan, a powerful dojutsu." The demon fox advised, ensuring that Naruto understood the severity of the situation.
As Naruto returned to reality, he noticed the white-haired man holding a girl by the throat, a sinister smile spreading across his face as he tightened his grip. The girl, dressed in red clothing and white shorts with black knee-high socks and sleeves, began to go limp in his grasp.
"Oh, little girl, you can't fade on me now. You're going to have to watch your precious Hokage die, especially after destroying my only way out back." the man ranted, his teeth bared to the world as his veins bulged with rage. Naruto, unfazed, yawned as he slowly put away his fishing rod, earning an irritated eyebrow raise from the white-haired man.
"Am I boring you, Naruto Uzumaki? You know, this is my fault. I forgot to introduce myself. I am Urashiki Otsutsuki." He spoke with arrogance, as if he were the most important person in the world. With his fishing gear finally stowed away, Naruto made his move. Throwing a paper kunai, Urashiki dodged to the left as he floated, but Naruto quickly teleported using the Flying Raijin, slicing at one of Urashiki's eyes with an air blade.
Urashiki released the girl he had been strangling, wincing in pain as Naruto pressed the attack, slashing at his chest while they both floated in the sky. Urashiki attempted to defend himself, but without both eyes, his Rinnegan abilities were weakened.
"Are you sure this guy's dangerous? He's getting his ass kicked." Naruto questioned Kurama, surprised at how easily he was defeating his opponent. He thought Haku would put up a better fight. Urashiki flew back, bleeding from his right eye.
"Damn you, Naruto. I will be back." He vowed before flying away in shame at his quick defeat, leaving Naruto to hear the splash as the girl fell to the water. Letting out a deep sigh, Naruto dove into the water, pulling the girl to the surface. Carrying her like a princess, he watched as her eyes flickered, recognizing the familiar blonde hair and blue eyes.
"Boruto? Thank you for saving me." She said as her vision began to return, seeing Naruto's fox-like ears and tail before her body finally passed out.
Naruto let out a deep sigh as he made his way back home, his frustration palpable at the abrupt end to his fishing trip. Upon arriving home, he carefully brought the unconscious girl inside, mindful of her condition.
Aware of the risk of catching a cold, he swiftly removed her wet clothes and wrapped her in a robe, gently placing her on his bed for comfort. As he began to examine her belongings, confirming she was indeed a ninja from Konoha, something immediately caught his eye - the symbol of the clan he harbored deep-seated resentment towards emblazoned on her back. Shock washed over him as he struggled to accept the implications.
"It can't be. She's a member of the Red Rodents." Naruto muttered to himself, his mind reeling with disbelief.
"No, this can't be... Our savior Itachi, the Rodent Slayer, only spared Sasuke." He muttered, grappling with the incongruity before him. Determined to seek clarity, Naruto delved deeper into her belongings, opening her bag containing multiple scrolls. With each scroll unfurled, he released different objects, yet the first two contained nothing more than standard ninja equipment.
"Nothing out of the ordinary here." Naruto commented, his brow furrowed in concentration as he continued his search for answers.
The next scroll proved to be peculiar. Upon unfurling it, Naruto's eyes widened as he beheld two stuffed animals nestled within. One resembled a Kurama plushie, while the other, intriguingly, was the same plushy but encased within a box. Even more unsettling was the name inscribed on the fox plushie, an exact match to Kurama's name. The demon fox shivered in discomfort, voicing his unease.
"I don't like this, Naruto. I don't like this at all. How does she know?" Kurama's concern echoed through Naruto's mind, leaving him bewildered by the mysterious connection between the girl and the demon fox.
"Yeah, this girl is strange." Naruto agreed with Kurama's assessment, his own unease growing with each revelation. Determined to uncover the truth, he moved on to the next scroll. As he unfurled it, he was met with a sight that left him utterly baffled. The scroll contained a collection of badges and sashes, along with several books bearing his name. Naruto's shock deepened as he grabbed one of the sashes, finding it labeled
"Club President: Naruto Fan Club." The realization sent a chill down his spine, prompting him to sift through the books.
"What the...?" Naruto's voice trailed off in disbelief as he flipped through the pages of the diaries, each detailing aspects of his daily routine. However, what puzzled him the most was the repeated mention of him being referred to as "Lord 7th."
"Kurama, what's going on? Do you have any ideas? Please, tell me if you have something." Naruto pleaded, his confusion and concern mounting as he sought answers to unravel the unsettling mystery surrounding the girl's inexplicable connection to him.
"I'm sorry, Naruto. I have no idea what's going on, but the only way to get answers is from the girl in the other room." Kurama explained, still taken aback by the situation. Naruto nodded, acknowledging Kurama's insight, and proceeded into his room where the girl lay stirring.
He approached her, his expression stern as he began to tie her up, ensuring she couldn't resist his interrogation. As her eyes flickered open, panic flashed across her face upon realizing her predicament. She struggled against the tightly bound ropes, her concern evident.
"No, no, no, no, no, I have to save..." She began to protest, but her words faltered as she caught sight of Boruto sitting beside her. Confusion clouded her features as she struggled to comprehend why Boruto was using a transformation jutsu to resemble a fox boy. Meanwhile, Naruto maintained a scowl, his gaze fixed on her.
"I'm not here to hurt you, girl. I just want to know who sent you and how you know about me." Naruto spoke calmly, concealing any hint of emotion. Sarada, startled by the unexpected turn of events, mistook Boruto's prank for reality.
"Quit it, Boruto. The prank's over, untie me now. I just had a weird dream... right?" She questioned, the uncertainty evident in her voice as her mind grappled with the surreal situation. As her memory cleared, she recounted fragments of her recent experiences, recalling a portal with Urashiki and a dragon statue, and placing a paper bomb on it, causing an explosion. Realization dawned on her.
"I'm sorry, but my name is Naruto Uzumaki. It seems you've been stalking me. So, my question is, where can I find the Naruto Fan Club?" Naruto inquired, suspecting their involvement in the attacks against him. Sarada's expression morphed into one of shock as she realized the identity of the person before her.
"Wait, no, you can't be Naruto. He doesn't have fox ears or a tail, and he's not my age. Please tell me this is a prank." She pleaded, tears welling in her eyes. She grappled with the surreal nature of her situation, realizing she was trapped in another world. Naruto approached her, his anger dissipating as he attempted to soothe Sarada's distress.
"Hey, it's okay. I'll see what I can do. What's your name?" He spoke softly, his tone gentle as he sought to ease her anxiety and coax out information about the Naruto Fan Club's location. Sarada, visibly calming down at Naruto's reassuring words, took a deep breath before responding.
"I am Sarada Uchiha, and I'm here to save you, Naruto Uzumaki." She declared earnestly, tears streaming down her cheeks and snot running from her nose in her emotional state.
Sensing Sarada's chakra, Naruto recognized the sincerity in her words.
"What should I do with her now? She's not a threat." Naruto asked Kurama, seeking guidance in handling the delicate situation.
"My first instinct is to eliminate her for being a Red Rodent. However, she may have connections with some protection detail. It's best to keep her around." Kurama advised, offering his perspective on the matter. Understanding the implications, Naruto nodded, accepting the course of action. The fox boy released her from her bonds.
"Sarada, where is the rest of the protection detail?" Naruto inquired, curious if there were others safeguarding him. Sarada's eyes widened as she contemplated her response, realizing she was alone in this strange yet somewhat familiar world.
"Naruto, I'm the only one. I'm not from this place... I'm from a different Konoha. So I won't be of much help to you. Urashiki is very strong. We need help to defeat him." She explained, her body trembling as she grappled with the harsh reality. Naruto furrowed his brow in confusion, contemplating her words.
"I'm sorry, he wasn't that formidable. After a few blows, he retreated. So there's no need to worry...Consider yourself dismissed and go back home." Naruto said kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Sarada, who had bravely tried to protect him. Overwhelmed with emotion, Sarada burst into tears, and Naruto comforted her, offering solace with his tail. She hugged it tightly, finding comfort in its warmth as she stroked it, unwittingly causing Naruto to blush at the sensation.
"Thank you, but I have nowhere to go. The only way back... home is lost to me. I...I blew it up. I'm never going to see my mom... or... dad again." Sarada confessed between sobs, her heart heavy with grief. Naruto held her in a tight embrace, her head resting against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. Looking up, she met the gaze of adult Naruto, the man who had always made her feel safe and cherished.
Naruto pondered her words, wondering about her reference to a different Konoha. However, as he gazed into her eyes, his heart skipped a beat. He noticed the vulnerability she exuded, longing for someone to comfort her, to hold her close as he had done countless times before.
"Sarada." He began softly, "you can stay here as long as you need. I may not fully understand what's troubling you, but I'm here to support you, no matter what." This time, Naruto spoke with genuine sincerity, feeling an urgent need to shield her from harm. Tenderly, he brushed the tears from her cheeks with his fingertips.
Sarada nestled back, pulling Naruto along with her until he hovered above her. He couldn't help but notice the slight rise and fall of her chest, and when their eyes met, her cheeks flushed crimson. It was then that she realized she wasn't wearing her own clothes.
"Um, Naruto, where are my clothes?" She asked, her embarrassment evident in her flushed cheeks. Naruto scratched the back of his head awkwardly, trying to explain himself.
"Well, you see, I had to remove them to ensure you wouldn't catch a cold." His cheeks are warming at the situation. Sarada's blush deepened, her reaction resembling a storm brewing within her.
As Sarada processed the fact that Naruto had glimpsed her exposed form, a rush of embarrassment flooded her.
"You saw everything?" She questioned, her cheeks ablaze with crimson. Naruto paused, considering his response carefully before he spoke.
"Yes...but you look stunning." He replied, attempting to ease the tension with a compliment. Sarada felt her embarrassment intensify, her cheeks burning as if they were on the brink of combustion.
"Oh... okay." Sarada responded, rising to her feet as Naruto shifted off of her. She gazed at him, taking in the mask obscuring his face and the peculiar fox-like features that adorned his body. Thoughts of his mysterious allure and undeniable attractiveness flooded her mind, causing her cheeks to flush with warmth as she buried her face in his tail.
"Sarada, are you alright? You seem to be burning up." Naruto remarked, his tone laced with genuine concern as he placed a hand on her forehead. The sensation of his touch only deepened her blush, and she shook her head in a feeble attempt to dispel the heat.
"No, I-I'm fine... just, um... going through a lot right now. I'm just... processing everything." She stammered, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "But knowing that I have you by my side... it helps me feel more at ease." She added, her sincerity evident as she found solace in the assurance of Naruto's support. With a gentle kiss to her forehead, Naruto inadvertently caused Sarada's heart to flutter, her mind momentarily overwhelmed by the intimate gesture.
"Um... sorry, I... I'll go get us some food." He replied hastily, a hint of nervousness creeping into his tone as he puzzled over his own actions. With a quick exit from the room.
Naruto settled into the living room, dispatching one of his clones to fetch some ramen and restock the fridge with food. As he lounged on the couch, contemplating the recent encounter, Kurama emerged from within him, fixing Naruto with a piercing stare.
"So, you've fallen for an Uchiha, huh? I distinctly remember us having a firm stance against their clan." Kurama remarked, a touch of anger seeping into his voice as he struggled to contain his frustration. Naruto averted his gaze, feeling a pang of shame at being tempted by Sarada.
"Maybe she placed me under a genjutsu." He offered, fabricating an excuse in a feeble attempt to hide his embarrassment. Kurama scoffed at Naruto's feeble attempt to deflect blame.
"Oh, I see. A genjutsu, you say? Yeah, I'm not buying it. Seriously, what's gotten into you? I told you about their atrocities. We even bonded over Sasuke's supposed demise. You know what I think it is?" Kurama ranted, venting his frustrations in controlled bursts to avoid unleashing his full wrath upon Naruto.
"What do you think it is?" Naruto inquired, his expression clouded with confusion as he grappled with his conflicting emotions. Pinching his nose in exasperation, the fox demon took a moment to compose himself before delivering his assessment.
"You're too soft with women, Naruto. You're always trying to help them, to be kind to them, to be an overall good person. And while that's admirable in most cases, it's a problem here because she's an Uchiha. It's like...it's like sleeping with a hairy rat. It's gross, Naruto. It's very gross, and disgusting, and vile, and immoral." Kurama lamented, his tone less angry and more pleading, akin to watching a dear friend succumb to addiction and being powerless to intervene.
"I'm sorry, but this is just how I feel. I didn't mean to... Besides, she can be a good Uchiha." Naruto explained, trying to convey the depth of his emotions, even though he acknowledged the lack of logic behind them. Kurama tugged at his hair in frustration, finding it difficult to comprehend why Naruto was acting so foolishly.
"Here's a question for you: If Sasuke were a pretty girl, scared and alone, in need of your help, would you help Sasuke?" Kurama posed this hypothetical scenario, hoping to gain insight into Naruto's thought process. As Naruto pondered, he visualized a female version of Sasuke, her eyes filled with tears, her expression pleading for assistance. Deep down, Naruto knew he would help her; it was a certainty within him.
Kurama shook his head in resignation, already anticipating Naruto's response. "Naruto, I won't attempt to sway your opinion on this matter, but mark my words, I'll be there when she plunges a knife into your back and twists the blade. Proceed with caution." He warned, his disappointment evident as he watched his son teeter on the brink of a mistake. Although he knew his words might not alter the outcome, he felt compelled to voice his concerns. Naruto nodded solemnly, acknowledging Kurama's stance.
"Besides, Kurama, I don't think you need to worry about it. It's not like she would agree to become one of my wives." Naruto quipped, his tone laced with playful humor. Kurama casually picked up a sash bearing the inscription "Club President: Naruto Fan Club." a silent acknowledgment of Naruto's undeniable charm and appeal.
"Sure, boy, sure." Kurama responded cryptically, knowing full well that Naruto's charisma would eventually win over Sarada's heart. Meanwhile, Sarada finally managed to compose herself after her encounter with the Seventh Hokage. Each time she attempted to leave, she could still feel the lingering warmth of his lips on her forehead, causing her thoughts to scatter. However, summoning her resolve, she stepped out of the room.
"Oh, Lord Seventh, is the food ready?" She inquired, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment as she addressed Naruto. However, before she could receive a response, Kurama faded from view, leaving Sarada momentarily puzzled. Naruto gestured towards the table, where two steaming bowls of ramen awaited them.
"Oh, sorry about that. I was just chatting with my roommate. By the way, why do you refer to me as Lord Seventh?" Naruto questioned, his curiosity piqued by Sarada's unwavering conviction. He couldn't help but wonder if Sarada might be somewhat delusional. However, her earnest demeanor suggested otherwise. Feeling a twinge of embarrassment at the thought of Naruto rifling through her belongings, Sarada retrieved a scroll from her bag and handed it to him.
"The answers you seek are in here. Don't be alarmed; it's quite a lot to take in." She explained in a serious tone as they settled down at the dinner table, side by side.
Naruto carefully unfurled the scroll, revealing a binder and a camera nestled within. As Sarada eagerly took hold of the camera, adjusting its settings with a deft touch, Naruto turned his attention to the binder. Flipping through its pages, he was met with images of Konoha, albeit with subtle differences that caught his eye. Yet, what truly captivated him was the figure beside Sarada, a whisker-blond individual with piercing blue eyes, clad in an orange shirt and a pristine white cloak. These images depicted moments of familiarity: sharing ramen, Sarada sitting in the Hokage's chair donning the hat with an exuberant smile, even a selfie of them together, both sporting radiant grins. Each photograph bore the signature of Naruto Uzumaki.
"I don't understand...this is my future. But...what happened to my ears and tail? Why would I assist these...scum?" Naruto muttered, his mind swirling with confusion as he grappled to make sense of the images before him.
"So, Sarada, what are your thoughts on shadowing the Hokage for a day?" a familiar voice echoed from the recording, drawing Naruto's attention. He turned to see a different version of himself on the screen, prompting Sarada to tilt the camera towards him, revealing the video.
"It was fantastic, Lord Seventh. Again, thank you for allowing me this opportunity." Sarada's voice emanated from the video, her expression brimming with cheerfulness. The older Naruto on the screen smiled warmly, a genuine expression despite the weariness evident in his features.
"Sarada, there's no need to thank me for your graduation gift. However, I'm afraid I must attend to some pressing matters, so our time together must be cut short." Naruto in the video explained, offering his rationale. Sarada nodded in understanding as the camera swayed slightly.
"You'll make a fine Hokage one day, Sarada." Naruto spoke with a gentle smile, his words imbuing the room with a sense of happiness and hope before the video abruptly ended.
The room fell into a heavy silence as Naruto mulled over the revelations before him.
"Naruto, it must be a trick, right? You could never become the Hokage, could you?" Kurama's uncertainty laced his words, his own disbelief mirroring Naruto's turmoil. Sensing the weight of his thoughts, Sarada allowed him a moment to process.
"You see, the device that Urashiki used to bring me here allows the user to traverse through parallel worlds. These worlds might appear identical, but even minor differences can lead to completely divergent outcomes. I didn't fully grasp the device's capabilities, but I took a leap, hoping to thwart him." Sarada explained, her voice steady as she offered a detailed account of her ordeal. Naruto absorbed her words, finally grasping the gravity of the situation.
"Ah, I understand now. In the world you come from, Naruto is a renowned ninja, beloved by the village. He must have worked tirelessly to achieve that status. It's comforting to know that at least one version of me is accepted." Naruto remarked with a bittersweet smile, a tinge of melancholy underlying his words as he contemplated his alternate self living out his dream. Observing Naruto's somber demeanor, Sarada couldn't help but express her concern.
"What are you talking about? Why would the villagers despise the hero of Konoha?" She inquired, her confusion evident. Naruto chuckled softly, finding irony in her question.
"Allow me to explain. In this world, I am indeed despised by the villagers, save for a select few. Sarada, I offer you my home for the time being, but if you wish to avoid the villagers' scorn, I suggest seeking refuge elsewhere." Naruto suggested gently, as if being hated were a mere inconvenience. Sarada felt a pang of empathy, yearning to comfort him, yet she also needed to consider her own safety.
"I understand that this world is different, but I don't believe you're very different. It's in your nature to prioritize others over yourself, isn't it, Lord Seventh?" Sarada remarked with a gentle smile, offering a glimmer of reassurance. Naruto appreciated her sentiment, his admiration evident in the way he regarded her.
"I appreciate the compliment, but what is your goal now?" Naruto inquired eagerly, intrigued by her resolve. Sarada paused, contemplating her response before speaking with the conviction of a true shinobi.
"Perhaps to find a way home. And if that proves impossible, then I will strive to become the Hokage in this world." She declared, refusing to let her circumstances dictate her ambitions. Naruto couldn't help but smirk at her unwavering determination, admiring the strength she exuded even in the face of adversity.
Naruto couldn't suppress the smile that tugged at his lips upon hearing Sarada's response.
"You bounce back quickly, Sarada. But again, if you need anything, just ask." He reassured her with unwavering confidence, his words intended to provide solace to the red-eyed girl. Feeling a twinge of embarrassment, Sarada found herself lost in thoughts of Naruto.
"Lord Seventh, I was wondering, what is your goal? Is it to become Hokage like me?" She queried, seeking to understand the aspirations of this alternate Naruto, recognizing the disparities between him and the one from her world. Naruto scratched the back of his head sheepishly, a bashful grin playing across his features.
"Well, you see, my goal is quite different. While he strives to become the Hokage, I aspire to rebuild my clan." He admitted honestly, his expression softened with a pleasant smile. Sarada looked puzzled at his response, feeling a hint of disappointment that their ambitions didn't align, yet still intrigued by his dream.
"That's intriguing. How do you plan to rebuild your clan?" She inquired innocently, her curiosity piqued as she sought clarification on Naruto's endeavor. Naruto's cheeks flushed crimson as he realized the need to elucidate his intentions.
"To rebuild my clan, I seek partners— at least five, so we can begin to expand our lineage. Thus far, I have only one, but I'm working towards my goal." Naruto explained calmly, though the blush that colored his cheeks betrayed his embarrassment. Sarada nodded, her expression serene as she absorbed his words, albeit momentarily blissfully unaware of their implications. Then, realization dawned upon her, her eyes widening in disbelief.
"Wait, wait, wait... What? Reproduce? You mean... make babies? And then you kissed me earlier today... Are you trying to make me your wife?" She blurted out rapidly, her mind racing with a flurry of thoughts. Her cheeks flushed to a deeper shade of crimson, her heart pounding furiously as she pressed her hands to her chest in an attempt to quell its frantic beating.
"I wouldn't mind having you as a wife, but I believe we should take things slow first." Naruto responded with gentleness, his demeanor akin to that of a true gentleman, careful not to appear pushy. Sarada felt a surge of panic overwhelming her, her mind flashing back to her childhood crush on Lord Seventh.
Sarada, overwhelmed with panic and uncertainty, hastily grabs her bowl of ramen, her face ablaze with the intensity of her blush.
"I... I'm going to eat in my room... I mean... your room... um... you know what I mean." She stammers out in a flustered rush, her words stumbling over each other as she flees the scene. As she retreats, her mind swirls with vivid images of her and Naruto sharing intimate moments, her internal scream echoing with confusion and distress.
Observing Sarada's abrupt departure, Naruto's expression falls, a pang of disappointment gripping his heart as he wonders if he had inadvertently scared her off. In his inner realm, he could almost hear fireworks erupting as Kurama revels in amusement at the situation.
"I need to improve at this, or I'll never find my future wives." Naruto mutters to himself, resolving to navigate his relationships with more finesse in the future. With a resigned sigh, he turns his attention back to his ramen, savoring each delicious bite. Having finished his meal, Naruto reclines on the couch, awaiting Sarada's eventual return. His ears twitch at the sound of the door opening, but to his dismay, it's not Sarada who emerges. Instead, Tenten and Fuka make their entrance, laden with bags of clothing.
Fuka's attire, a tight dress with a tantalizingly short skirt and a teasing glimpse of cleavage, causes Naruto's cheeks to flush a deep crimson hue. She playfully adjusts her skirt, eliciting an even deeper blush from Naruto, who resembles a ripe tomato in response to her flirtatious antics. Meanwhile, Naruto's gaze shifts to Tenten, who stands before him in a striking white Chinese dress, accentuated by a long slit that showcases her slender legs and accentuates her curves.
"Wow, you two look absolutely stunning. It was definitely worth the Ryo." Naruto comments, his eyes alight with admiration as he appreciates their beauty. The two girls exchange satisfied smirks, pleased to have captured Naruto's attention, although Tenten can't help but feel a twinge of embarrassment amidst the flattery.
Fuka leans in, pressing her lips against Naruto's, her embrace tight as their tongues engage in a fervent battle. Caught up in the moment, Naruto reciprocates, matching her intensity as they share a passionate kiss. Meanwhile, Tenten watches with a hint of jealousy flickering in her eyes, though Naruto is too engrossed in the exchange to notice her fleeting expression. As they finally break away, Naruto wears a foolish, perverted grin, his cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and exhilaration.
"Thank you, Fuka. I really needed that." He expresses sincerely, his gaze lingering on her with a newfound fondness. Fuka, however, draws closer to him, her playful demeanor tinged with a hint of mischief as she sniffs his scent, leaving Naruto momentarily bewildered.
"Where's the other girl, Naruto? Are you already cheating on me?" She teases with a devilish smirk, her hungry gaze fixed upon the fox boy. Her playful accusation hangs in the air, adding a layer of tension to the moment as Naruto grapples with her words, unsure of how to respond.
"Fuka, it's not what it smells like. Some guy was trying to kill me, and this girl, Sarada, was trying to protect me. She's in my room at the moment." Naruto explained, offering only the essential details. Finally emerging from the room after hearing the commotion outside, Sarada approached tentatively, her nerves palpable as she faced the two women who were glaring at her. Though she recognized Tenten immediately, Fuka was a stranger to her.
"Hey, my name is Sarada." She spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper, unsure of how to navigate the situation. Without hesitation, Fuka darted towards her, prompting Sarada to tense, ready for a confrontation. To her surprise, Fuka enveloped her in a hug.
"Thank you so much for protecting my Naruto." Fuka expressed gratitude, her tone laced with a subtle assertion of ownership, unwilling to relinquish her claim. Sarada, caught off guard by the unexpected display of affection, found herself at a loss, unfamiliar with this woman's connection to Naruto.
"You're welcome. I know Naruto and Tenten, but I don't know your name." Sarada responded casually, striving to maintain a neutral demeanor in hopes of diffusing the tension. Tenten, visibly surprised by Sarada's familiarity with her, speculated that Naruto must have mentioned her. The realization brought a smile to Tenten's face, grateful that Naruto had spoken about her. However, Fuka's expression momentarily darkened as she released Sarada from the hug.
"Oh, my boyfriend hasn't told you about me, but Tenten." She remarked with a hint of disappointment in her tone. Sarada's panic surged as she hastily raised her hands, gesturing frantically.
"No, no, no, no! I just... I can explain." She blurted out in a rush, desperate to clarify the situation and avoid causing any harm to Naruto's relationship. Confusion flickered between the two women as they exchanged glances, but after watching the video and hearing Sarada's explanation, Tenten and Fuka finally understood the circumstances.
The two girls turned their attention to Naruto, their gaze piercing as Fuka raised an eyebrow inquisitively.
"So, somebody else is trying to kill you again? Seriously, darling, you're going to lead me into an early grave with all this stress. Maybe we should get your sensei involved." Fuka voiced her concern, her worry evident as she contemplated the threats to her beloved's life. Tenten nodded in agreement, her expression mirroring Fuka's concern.
"Naruto, I think the Hokage could help you out. At least he can set up a protection detail around you." Tenten suggested, her voice tinged with apprehension. Sarada looked surprised at the mention of the Otsutsuki targeting Naruto once more.
"Wait, other Otsutsuki members have been targeting Naruto?" She interjected, her surprise evident as she processed the implications of the situation. Naruto rose from his seat, drawing their attention as he addressed their concerns.
"I appreciate all of your concerns, but I can handle this myself. The only other people I'm involving in this are Team 3. As for Kakashi, I don't trust him yet, and as for the Third Hokage, I don't care about him. I would rather die in the streets than accept his help. And to answer your question, Sarada, I don't know. Otsutsuki could be pulling strings from behind the curtain." Naruto replied, seeking to address their inquiries and reassure them simultaneously. Tenten stood up, determined to take action.
"If that's the case, I'll inform the rest of Team 3. Don't worry, Naruto, we'll keep you safe." She asserted, her resolve clear as she departed. Meanwhile, Fuka wore an expression of inner turmoil, grappling with her own feelings of inadequacy. Despite her best efforts to protect Naruto, she feared her skills as a ninja were insufficient. Sensing her distress, Naruto wrapped his arms around her, offering comfort.
"I'm going to be fine. I've already defeated him once. So, don't make that face." He whispered into her ear, his reassurance soothing her worries. Gripping the back of his hand, she leaned into his embrace, seeking solace.
"Promise me you'll be safe out there." She whispered, her words heavy with concern. Turning her head, Naruto planted a tender kiss on her lips.
"I promise, my love." He whispered back, his words filling her with both comfort and hope as her heart skipped a beat.
Sarada struggled to maintain her focus on Naruto's safety as jealousy gnawed at her insides, observing the tender moments between the two lovers. She cleared her throat, signaling for their attention.
"Naruto, we need to devise a plan to deal with Urashiki and ascertain if there are any other members." She interjected, unable to bear the intensity of their affectionate exchange any longer. Naruto released a weary sigh in response.
"I appreciate your concern, Sarada, but I assure you, I'm fine. I don't believe Team 3 is necessary. Besides, we should focus on your situation. How do you plan to navigate life here? After all, there is no Sarada Uchiha in this world." He remarked, prompting her to consider her own predicament. Sarada was taken aback by his statement, contemplating her uncertain future. At that moment, Fuka offered a sudden and unexpected solution.
"I've got an idea. We could fabricate a backstory for you. We'll say your mother was a prostitute impregnated by an Uchiha. She revealed your heritage on her deathbed, prompting you to come to Konoha in search of your clan. Your stepfather, a retired and rogue ninja, also passed away." Fuka proposed, weaving a tale of deception with fervor. Sarada found herself surprisingly receptive to the notion, recognizing its potential effectiveness. Fuka continued, her enthusiasm growing as she delved deeper into her fabricated narrative.
"To enhance the credibility of the story, we could introduce an evil twin for your stepfather named Urashiki Otsutsuki. Before your father's demise, he instructed you to come here to save Naruto." She elaborated, her enthusiasm bordering on mania. Sarada gently intervened, placing a hand on Fuka's shoulder.
"Thank you, Fuka, but I believe that's sufficient. I can manage from here." She interjected, halting Fuka's exuberant rambling. Naruto, amused by their exchange, chimed in with a warm smile.
The trio, comprised of the fox Boy, the redhead, and the red-eyed beauty, engaged in conversation as Team 3 excluding the Hyuga arrived, marking the first use of Sarada's fabricated backstory. Guy, Naruto, and Lee ventured outside to investigate for any traces of Urashiki, leaving the three girls inside. Fuka broke the silence with a probing question.
"Soooo, Sarada, who does Naruto marry in your world?" The inquiry caught Sarada off guard, and Tenten moved closer, eager to hear the response. Sarada felt a wave of nervousness discussing the other Naruto, recognizing the disparities between their realities. Nonetheless, she composed herself swiftly.
"Well, I hate to disappoint you, but he ends up with Hinata. Actually, I never even heard of you two having any romantic inclinations toward him. And as for you, Fuka, you don't exist in my world." Sarada explained delicately, attempting to soften the blow. The two girls exchanged contemplative glances, acknowledging the differences in their respective worlds but finding solace in the permission granted by Sarada's insight. Fuka turned to Tenten.
"Hinata, do you know anything about her?" She inquired, seeking the swords-woman's perspective. Tenten recalled glimpsing Hinata on the outskirts of the foxes' forest, hesitating before attempting to enter multiple times. Tenten nodded, indicating that Hinata posed no threat.
"Yeah, she's probably on the edge of the forest, trying to gather the courage to enter Naruto's domain. He may not show much interest in her, but he does have a penchant for protecting her. That could eventually evolve into love." Tenten explained, sharing her viewpoint on the matter. Fuka nodded in agreement with Tenten's assessment.
"I see, so as of now, it's just you and Sarada vying for my boyfriend's affections." Fuka remarked casually, eliciting blushes of embarrassment from the other two girls as they attempted to defend themselves. However, they found themselves speechless in the face of Fuka's teasing. Fuka smiled mischievously, drawing closer and lifting their chins.
"You know, I'm not only interested in boys; girls are just as appealing to me. So, this little love triangle doesn't bother me in the slightest. In fact, it might even be enjoyable to have some delectable treats." She purred seductively, causing the hairs on the other two women to stand on end. In unison, they exclaimed, "Pervert!" before Fuka erupted into laughter at their adorable reaction.
Naruto and the rest of Team 3 entered the room, having checked the perimeter and placed their talismans. Guy Sensei's presence immediately commanded attention.
"It looks like we're safe for now. But I will have to inform Lord Third." Guy spoke somberly, recognizing the gravity of the situation and prioritizing Naruto's safety above all else. Naruto sighed deeply, feeling frustrated by the idea of involving the Third Hokage, but understanding Guy's reasoning.
"I guess it can't be helped. But seriously, guys, I can handle this. I don't think the Third Hokage needs to get involved." Naruto tried to argue, though he knew it was futile. Guy placed a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder, feeling a sense of responsibility for his former student's well-being.
"Naruto, I know you don't like the idea, but what kind of teacher would I be if I didn't put my student's safety above anything else?" Guy spoke sincerely, eliciting a small smile from Naruto despite his irritation. Naruto chuckled, grateful for Guy's concern.
"Thank you, I appreciate everything you've done for me so far." Naruto expressed his gratitude with a bright smile, which prompted Guy to pull him into a hug. Naruto was surprised but pleased by the gesture, reciprocating the embrace. As they parted, Guy gave Naruto a thumbs-up.
"I swear on the power of youth, we will protect you." Guy declared emphatically, his bushy eyebrows furrowed with determination. Naruto grinned at the declaration, feeling uplifted by Guy's words. Naruto noticed Lee staring out the window, checking the perimeter despite the talismans Naruto had placed. Curious, Naruto approached his martial arts-loving teammate.
"What's on your mind, Lee? Come on, talk to me." Naruto urged, adopting a friendly tone. Lee scratched the back of his head sheepishly before blurting out his concern.
"Well, you see, it's just that... You have three girlfriends, and I don't even have one!" Lee exclaimed, releasing his pent-up energy. Naruto burst into laughter, understanding Lee's predicament. Tenten and Sarada, however, turned beet red, feeling embarrassed by Lee's outburst. Tenten rushed to her bushy-browed teammate's side, trying to clarify the situation.
"Lee, I'm not dating Naruto. We're just friends." Tenten explained, attempting to set the record straight.
Lee rolled his eyes, disbelieving Tenten's words.
"So, going on those movie dates with just a friend, talking late at night, and having dinner together, it's all just friendship, huh?" Lee called her out, bringing all her alleged actions into the spotlight. Tenten's expression fell as each accusation hit her like a ton of bricks, causing her to wince.
"Lee... um... um... I think it's time for you guys to leave. Don't worry, I'll keep Naruto safe." Tenten stammered as she ushered the two bushy-browed comrades out. Lee protested, refusing to let the matter go.
"Come on, Tenten, just admit it." He insisted, though he was being pushed out. Tenten felt like she might burst with embarrassment. Guy, on the other hand, was impressed by her physical prowess and gave her a thumbs-up.
"Keep it up, Tenten. Your physical training has been paying off." He encouraged her as they were pushed out the doorway. Once the two green-clad teammates were gone and the door was closed, a bead of sweat rolled down Tenten's face, her features flushed with embarrassment. Sarada, too mortified to speak, felt like her brain was short-circuiting. Fuka observed them both with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Well, I guess we should head to bed now. It's getting late. Oh, Tenten, since you're just Naruto's friend, you wouldn't mind taking Sarada to get some clothes as we go on our date tomorrow, would you?" Fuka asked sweetly, but the implication irritated Tenten to no end. The sword-wielding beauty nodded begrudgingly, her expression tinged with jealousy.
"Yeah, I can do that." She muttered through clenched teeth. Fuka smiled gleefully, satisfied with the reaction she elicited.
"Great. Now, my handsome fox and I are going to bed because mama needs cuddles." Fuka declared with a coy smile, twirling her hair between her fingers. Sarada and Tenten exchanged confused glances as Naruto and Fuka began to make their way to his room. However, Sarada stepped forward, blocking their path.
"What the hell do you think you're doing? You two can't share a bed." She protested, her mind racing with inappropriate images. Tenten echoed Sarada's concerns.
"Yeah, you can't. What happens if she ends up pregnant because you two took it too far?" She added, raising a valid point. Naruto chuckled at their reactions, then stepped forward, sweeping Fuka up like a princess as if they were on their honeymoon.
"Ladies, I appreciate your concerns, but neither of you has claimed me as your man, so you don't have any say in what my girlfriend and I do." He stated gently but firmly, his tone carrying authority. Both Sarada and Tenten looked away, unsure of how to respond. Tenten briefly entertained the idea of claiming Naruto to assert herself, but she wasn't ready to confront her feelings just yet.
Sarada was still grappling with the recent events, understanding that this was a different world and a different Naruto. So, they reluctantly let them pass. Naruto paused at the doorway.
"Hey, we're just gonna cuddle, and both of you are free to join." He offered, causing their cheeks to flush crimson. They both shook their heads vigorously, denying the request.
"I see. If you two change your mind, I don't lock my door. For now, you can stay in the guest rooms for tonight." Naruto said confidently, his voice carrying a hint of seduction. As they retired for the night, outside of Naruto's forest, a figure floated in the air, cloaked in white, blending with their pale skin. Urashiki held a picture in his hand, depicting a girl with white eyes and black hair next to a blonde with blue eyes and distinctive whisker marks.
"Naruto Uzumaki, I know you'd do anything to protect the ones you love the most, even giving up that little fox." Urashiki spoke with cunning in his voice as he pondered over his foolproof plan.