Yo, it's Ken.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! This chapter took a little while to get posted but for mostly good reason I promise, I got a lot of stuff in the works especially in 2025 and you'll be seeing a lot of that stuff soon but let's get to reviews!
Alexander4443: Thanks bro! I'm grateful to you sticking around these past years and hope this year is no different. Thank you again for reading and I'll see you in the next one!
Reedz22: I'm glad you enjoyed it! I had fun writing it! I have more coming down the pipeline so I've gotcha haha. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
InsaneMakaioshin: It's a little complicated but I'll explain my thought process briefly with Kekkei Genkai. Basically, there are two types of Advanced Nature Transformation one done by advanced ninja and ones done by bloodline. Any ninja with training can perform Advanced Nature Transformation but that ninja will only get the combination as it normally is I.E Water and Earth would be Mud Style. Meanwhile if someone with a bloodline were to preform that same combination it would create a unique Nature Transformation I.E. Hashirama combines Water and Earth but he'll make Wood Style instead. Liberties are taken of course but great thought! Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
zachosg7: Thank you! I'm glad you are enjoying it, and I'm glad you're here for the ride, I'm happy to have you. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
Lampre8: The Bandit King is persistent indeed, definitely a thorn in the side of our crew but as the story progresses so will they and the enemies they encounter. I have fun writing for the character and I'm glad I made him someone you can detest haha. Thank you for reading and I hope to see you again in the next one!
: Hey there! You know me but I do have to say this very quickly... I wouldn't take what you've seen as the limit because I've got more ideas that will be coming to light soon so look forward to it. Side note, I highly agree that would have been awesome. However, I have a plan, and you'll have to find out when I get there haha. Thank you again for reading my friend, I hope to see you in the next one!
Kabundio: I'm still being mostly secretive about it but for now when it comes to romance don't expect harem or anything like that... for the moment. Like said I have some thoughts, but you never know waht can change with time but for now rest assured. There was a part of me that was worried about a full fight chapter but with this fight I had no choice, it had to go down haha. I'm glad you enjoyed it! As for Tenten... well, we'll see. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
miguel. : No comment, haha! You'll have to see, my friend. I'm glad you enjoyed the fight; it's one of my favorites at the moment. As for the encounter, I'm ready for it too but one thing I'll say is. You aren't ready for it, I promise haha. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
Premium kawai: Wow, I'm glad it's bingable. Thank you for taking out the time to stop by and read, I'm grateful. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
bluebest: I'm glad you are enjoying the story, Cloudburst does have its drawbacks and the similarities I can definitely see them haha. I won't get too into it but I've got a lot planned down the road regarding combat for Naruto. I don't plan on going down any direction too heavily but the Uzushiogakure part coming up is some to look forward too. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one!
Krieger Techpriest: Krieger! Always good to see you and I hope that trend continues as Kokai moves into 2025 and its 2nd year being published, thanks for sticking around so long! No comment on your first item there haha. I had to at least try; all things considered this reaction tells me it worked for the most part. I've been looking forward to writing more Tenten and that's all I'm going to say on that so look forward to it. Thank you again for reading and I'll see you in the next one!
Dragonkeeper10: I've been super grateful for your summaries and interest ways of writing your reviews for this story and I hope we'll continue that trend into the new year as well. You bring up interesting points and I have to agree, the Bandit King is strong but in comparison to Killer Bee. I can confirm he wouldn't have stood much of a chance, which goes to show the difference of power between Naruto and the world he's in as he continues to grow. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter and love the story. Thank you again fro readinf and I'll see you in the next one!
Samuel Santillian: The Bandit King represents a shift in the story as we begin to transition into the 'Shippuden' section of the story, meaning from this moment on the way the fighting and strength of the characters will be represented will be completely different. The Bandit King is an interesting character for me to write because I've always had him tacked as a natural genius who becomes more dangerous the more, he learns from encounters so implementing that into writing is always fun. Swordless was so fun to conceptualize, I've had it planned for a long time and to finally be able to bring it out was awesome. The technique was definitely an homage, but Sasuke wouldn't respect it regardless haha. Lastly, Sasuke is still hot on the trail of Naruto meaning this upcoming encounter has just gotten a bit more complicated but look forward to that as well. Thank you again for reading and I hope to see you in the next one.
As always if you have any questions, thoughts, or criticisms feel free to leave a review, I read all of them and will get to as many as I can to respond to them. It's up to you, if you don't leave a review that's also perfectly fine as well, I appreciate you regardless.
I'll try to keep this brief, but this last year has been phenomenal and it's thanks to all of you and your support and care for this story. I'm not only inspired to write this story because I love it but because I have all of you to push me to continue to write and get a little better every day. So, thank you all for all that you do review or no review.
2025 has a lot but different projects other than Kokai coming up that you'll all be seeing from me, you don't have to read them but if things get busy on this side that's why, but Naruto Kokai will continue as I'm not done here yet. I've got social media; I'm working on and all of that so I'm excited. The point is, as a writer I want to continue to reach toward doing what makes me happy.
That's both in life and everywhere else, my goal is to become a stronger and kinder person as time moves forward. I also want to act a place where if someone is having an off day or feels a little isolated that they can read these stories and hopefully feel like someone understands. I do and I hope to entertain along the way.
This chapter is a lighter one and I had fun writing it. That being said, the gloves are coming off from here. I'm going all out from now on and I plan to improve, I'm also finally at the place where I can write what I want to write next for this story.
I'm grateful to you all for being along for the ride.
Thank you all for reading and I hope you continue to enjoy.
-Ken Miyamoto
Next Time! Chapter 43: Haunted
{...}
Chapter 42: Just for Us
Slender fingers ran along three strings gently while the light of the early morning sun illuminated the room, the instrument in her hands was the shamisen. Finger plucked against the strings releasing a melody of both peacefulness yet a hint of longing.
The song continued to play as the player continued to strum her fingers along the strings, long blonde hair ran down her back like a pale golden waterfall. Her eyes were closed shut as she continued to play, just allowing the music to fill her ears as it rang out an unspoken tale.
Yugito's fingers moved a little faster as she continued to strum the instrument, her melody continued along with a small sway of her body. She was locked into her music playing as her eyes cracked open slightly, her fingers still moving.
Yugito strummed her fingers letting a note hang in the air, closing her eyes again at its sound before strumming quickly again, there was now an intensity to her music but it never let go of the peaceful tune it had even as she moved more into it.
The image of a younger version of herself marveling at a Shamisen and Koto performance entered her mind, the way their songs captured her and made her feel like she could just enjoy the music.
Until she was dragged away from the sound, dragged off to be broken again.
Yugito's song continued intensely as she strummed even faster, her long hair swaying along with her as she played. Another memory, listening to the sound of her bones putting themselves back together, the young blonde girl on the floor hummed a melody occasionally interrupted by groans of pain.
The now young woman pushed past the memory continuing to play as the memories continued to flow through her fingers bleeding into her melody, she saw the ninja in charge of her training staring at her disheveled form on the ground.
A look not filled with hatred or disappointment. Only indifference toward her.
"Yugito."
The blonde woman jumped, stopping her music as she suddenly looked toward the door to the left of her, Tayuya was standing there along with Fu and Boro. The woman quickly tried to hide the instrument while Tayuya raised an eyebrow.
"What? Did we catch you in the middle of something?"
Tayuya's voice clearly had a teasing tone to it, "Yugito, that was amazing! You and Tayuya should totally have a jam session. Her flute and your shamisen would go great together!" Fu exclaimed while Boro put a hand on his face.
"It was so beautiful… If I hadn't lost my ability to cry in the war, I would have shed a tear!"
Boro said while Tayuya shot him a look, "What war, Dumbass?!" the girl yelled as Yugito stared toward them. A few days had passed since the fight with the Bandit King, her own healing prowess wasn't anything exceptional but having Haruka around really helped.
Boro was covered by less bandages than he was originally on visible on his arms and legs while Fu's abdomen was bandage free other than a scar that crossed over her the bottom of her left rib, Tayuya came out mostly unscathed strange considering she was out of her bandages in less than a day.
She wouldn't linger on it, Yugito was just glad they were all ok.
"Forgive me… As a Shinobi we weren't really allowed to have things like hobbies, especially during my training days… I guess I'm just not used to having the time to enjoy those hobbies let alone people to share them with."
Yugito explained, causing Tayuya to groan, "Ugh, it's too damn early for sad stuff. We get it, but this is a safe place. You can do whatever you want around us, hell you didn't do a half bad job playing…" the reddish haired girl said, turning her face away while Boro and Fu both gave her wide grins.
"Huh? What's that? Tayuya has actually been nice this whole time?"
"Wow Lady Cripple, you do have a heart, don't you?"
Boro and Fu teased the girl who growled, "Shut up both of you! You're so annoying! I ain't a cripple anymore either, so once those bandages come off of you, I'll kill you!" Tayuya yelled while Boro covered his hand with his mouth stilling giving her a teasing look.
"Oh? You're even so kind that you'll wait until I'm fully recovered to kill me? Wow Tayuya you're such a saint! I'm not seeing a badass anywhere in sight!"
Boro exclaimed while Fu laughed, Tayuya put him in a headlock while glaring at him, "Screw it then!" the girl said, strangling the taller teen while a smile formed on Yugito's face from their usual chaos.
"Wait… Where's Naruto? If you guys are here to wake me up, then is something wrong?"
Yugito asked, already preparing for action as the three teens looked at her, "No, everything's fine. Naruto went to the village because they wanted to talk to him about something. We're just here because breakfast is ready, and we wanted to get you." Fu spoke while Yugito immediately relaxed.
"Oh… I see."
Yugito said while Fu walked over to her and grabbed her hand. "Come on, Haruka and 'Basa are waiting for us." the girl said while the blonde woman raised an eyebrow at her.
"Basa?"
Yugito said not being able to hide the tease in her own voice before Fu looked at her innocently, "Yeah, like Tsubasa. Is it weird or something?" the green haired girl asked obviously while Yugito smiled and shook her head.
"No, not at all."
Yugito said while Fu gave her a confused look, she then looked toward Tayuya and Boro who were giving her looks as well, "Hey! What's going on here? I thought we were supposed to be teasing her!" the orange eyed girl pouted pointing a finger at Tayuya as they laughed.
Meanwhile downstairs Tsubasa winced as a hand gently tugged back a needle, "Sorry. Was that too fast?" Haruka asked while the smoky haired teen shook his head.
"No, you're doing good. It just hurts a lot more than I thought."
Tsubasa said as Haruka gave him a comforting smile, "Well you did have a hole in your shoulder, no one's expecting you to soldier through the pain. Especially not me." the girl said, stitching into him again as he exhaled out of his nose.
"Hey, the baby… Have you thought of a name yet?"
Tsubasa asked while the brown-haired girl looked into his eyes, "Honestly… Not really. I still haven't thought about the giving birth part let alone any names. I know he's gone but it still feels like he's still there in a way. It's hard to think about anything like that." Haruka explained as Tsubasa looked at the floor for a moment.
"I get it…"
Tsubasa trailed off while Haruka tilted her head to meet his eyes, "How did it feel? When he was finally gone? I thought it would be a freeing experience… I'm not a violent person but I wish I was there to see it, just to make me feel a little better." the girl said while Tsubasa lifted his head.
"Hanami."
Tsubasa said suddenly while Haruka gave him a confused look, "The name… Everyone thinks it's going to be a boy so Hanami. It sounds strong, right?" the gray-haired teen said as a smile cracked on Haruka's face.
"Hanami might be a girl's name."
Haruka fired back, causing Tsubasa to make a surprised face as he quickly thought something else, "The baby could still be a girl." he argued, making the honey eyed girl laugh.
"If I screw up your stitches it's your fault."
Haruka threatened as a rare smile covered over Tsubasa's face, "I take full responsibility… Karui… No Hachi." The teen kept saying names, making the girl laugh even more.
"It's my child, not the family dog, Tsubasa."
Haruka said clearly failing not to take enjoyment in his multiple attempts, "That. I just need you to think about that… He's not going to hurt you ever again. Just focus on the name of your baby and laugh. He's left pretty deep scars on both of us but it's time we move on otherwise he'll curse us forever." Tsubasa said, allowing the brown-haired girl to look at him a little longer before nodding.
"You make this wisdom thing look good, Tsubasa. You've grown a lot."
Haruka said while Tsubasa nodded, "You as well, Haruka. I'm glad." he said while they shared a moment of peaceful silence as Haruka finished stitching him.
"There. You can move your arm around more now but no drastic movements or you'll tear them."
The girl said as she reapplied his bandage as he stared at her before he suddenly touched the top of her head, Haruka flinched from the sudden contact, "Sorry, I just-" the teen said as Haruka relaxed shaking her head.
"I'm just not used to it, you're gentle."
Haruka said as she continued to apply his bandages as Tsubasa gently rubbed her head. They stayed like this until the sound of running footsteps broke them up.
"You having fun messing up the lady's hair, Wise Guy?"
Boro asked suddenly tugging at Tsubasa who was just confused, "Boro, it's fine." Haruka said with a smile as the brown-haired boy walked over to her.
"Like really fine? He didn't cause you to start to pop early, did he?"
Boro asked while the boy was kicked in the back by Tayuya, "That's not how that works dumbass, go get your food." Tayuya said while Haruka giggled at their antics.
"How are you feeling, Princess?"
Tayuya asked as the girl smiled toward her, "So far so good. I'm feeling a lot of different things but I'm ok, I don't feel like I'm about to pop or anything." Haruka joked while Tayuya smiled at her.
"Yeah, yeah. You better have had food before you started bandaging up Edgelord."
Tayuya said while Haruka only looked at her blankly, the reddish haired girl growled before tugging on Haruka's ear. "Ow Tayuya, I'm sorry. I'm sorry!" the girl exclaimed while laughing as Tayuya glared at her.
"What? Did you think you were safe because you're pregnant? Not even a little bit. I'm grabbing you some food and you're eating. Got it?"
Tayuya threatened while Haruka nodded her head causing the reddish haired girl to let go of her ear, "Thank you, Tayuya." the honey eyed girl said while the walking girl huffed in response.
"Tsubasa."
Fu said while the teen looked toward the girl, "Hey there, Fu-" the boy was cut off as she suddenly cupped both sides of his face, placing her forehead against his. "Fu… What are you-" he was cut off again as the girl shook her head slightly.
"I'm checking for fever, those are silent killers you know."
The girl said while Tsubasa closed his eyes with a smile, "Ok, Fu." he responded already giving in to her antics. Yugito quickly walked over with a thermometer passing it over to Tsubasa.
"His temperature should still be the same as it was yesterday and the day before when we checked. Right Tsubasa?"
Yugito asked while the teen took the thermometer, "R-right." Tsubasa said using the device while Fu gave the woman a look.
"You're more driven to mess with me today than ever."
Fu said while Yugito just smiled at her, "Maybe I am being a tad protective, you could just be honest." the blonde said while the girl growled.
"Honest about what? I'm so confused!"
Yugito petted her head affectionately and passed her a bowl of rice. "Eat." she said as Fu pouted while taking the bowl beelining over to Tsubasa causing the woman to laugh.
They had all settled into breakfast, they talked amongst each other as normal until the door leading to outside suddenly slid open.
The group immediately looked toward the door spotting a familiar blond as he smiled at all of them, "Shithead, took you long enough." Tayuya said while Naruto cleared his throat.
"Renegades, clear your schedules. We're going to be busy tonight!"
Naruto exclaimed while they all gave him looks, "Busy? With what?" Haruka asked while Boro groaned, melting into his cushion.
"I beg of you. No more fights! I'm on strike!"
Boro exclaimed while Fu jumped up, "Ooh ooh! What are we doing?!" the girl asked excitedly while Yugito noticed his hands behind his back.
"Naruto, what do you have there?"
The woman asked curiously as Naruto grinned before he lifted his arms revealing a series of yukatas in his hands, the rest of the group gave the teen a look as the blond pumped his fist into the air.
"We're going to a festival tonight!"
{...}
"Woohoo!"
Fu yelled throwing her fist is into the air as the group walked toward the gates of Nimbus Village, the green haired girl spun on her heel before striking a pose similar to Jiraiya's signature one.
"Festival time!"
Fu yelled in her orange yukata that was covered in white butterfly designs, her obi tied large in the back resembling wings. While her hair was tied into a small ponytail. "Yeah! …I've never been to one of these before though?" Boro said scratching the back of his head, he was wearing a grey obi with crashing wave patterns on it and a large paw print on the back.
"Me neither!"
Fu exclaimed with a bright smile on her face as Naruto laughed, "Jeez, you guys gotta bring your histories everywhere?" Tayuya commented before Yugito raised an eyebrow.
"You also haven't been to one."
Yugito spoke with a hint of a smile on her face, her yukata was a bright blue in color. A large white outline of a cat made up the pattern on her clothing with a simple purple obi. Tayuya huffed, crossing her arms as Tsubasa scratched the back of his head, "I'm pretty sure most of us have never been to one." the teen spoke.
He was wearing a simple grey yukata and a dark grey obi, no intricate designs in sight. His smoky grey hair was tied into an updo courtesy of Fu.
Tayuya meanwhile was wearing a navy-blue yukata with reddish pink lotus flower designs all over it, her obi was a simple red one.
"Alright, show of hands. Who's never been to a festival before?"
Tayuya said, raising her hand as Fu quickly followed along with Tsubasa, Boro, and Yugito. "Figured… Of course, the princess and Shithead have." The girl said while Haruka shook her head.
"I'm not a princess… I also didn't really get to participate in the festivities. I was usually performing ceremony at them."
Haruka said as she brushed her hair behind her ear bashfully, her yukata was a pale pink with sakura petals as design on it. Her hair was tied into a high ponytail leaving a loose bang to hang.
"I technically have been to a festival before… it was for an assassination mission."
Yugito said simply as the rest of the Renegades sweat dropped, "Pretty sure that still doesn't count." Fu added as Naruto stepped in front of everyone wrapping his arm around Haruka's shoulder.
"Don't sweat it guys! Haruka and I can show you the ropes! It'll be fun, I promise."
Naruto exclaimed oblivious to the reddening girl in his arm, the blond teen's yukata was black with orange wave designs.
"We get it, you're an expert bro. Now let the poor girl go, she's going to die at this rate."
Boro said as Naruto tilted his head before quickly letting go of Haruka, "Are you ok? You do look a little red, is the obi too tight around the baby?" The teen asked while Haruka rapidly shook her head.
"Alright! Let's go already."
Tayuya said, giving the blonde a kick as Fu jumped in the air before dashing toward the festivities, "Alright!" the girl yelled as the rest of the Renegades followed.
The entire village had transformed now decorations had been put up everywhere and lanterns had been set up along small shops.
Fu's eyes sparkled as the group walked around the flashy lights of the celebration, they slowly came to a stop as they met with a familiar face.
"Lord Naruto! Renegades!"
Boushi yelled out wearing a different hat, one that was trading yet festive as Naruto raised an eyebrow.
"Seriously? I'm not a lord so please don't start that."
Naruto sweatdropped as the rest of the group laughed at him, "I'm glad you were all able to make it, I was worried since you had mentioned that you'd be leaving the Land of Lighting soon." The man said while the blond teen shook his head.
"Of course, yeah we'll be leaving soon but we would miss out on this. All of you guys planned this together for us so we're grateful."
Naruto said while Boushi rapidly shook his head, "You're grateful? Nonsense, we are the ones in your debt. This is the least we could do for what you've done for us, please enjoy the festivities. Everything is free of charge for you all of course, if anyone says otherwise let me know immediately and I'll take care of it!" The black-haired man said while the entire group sweatdropped.
"Thank you, sir. You've done a lot for us too, so don't just slide all the credit to us. This was an effort of everyone."
Naruto said while the man smiled at him, "Please, before you leave the land please visit me. I'll make sure you have what you need for your journey ahead. All of you, enjoy!" Boushi said before he bowed his head.
The group didn't get the chance to bow back before he dashed away leaving them to laugh at his antics.
"Come on! I wanna try that!"
Fu exclaimed pointing at a stand while Boro popped his neck, "Guess if you wanna so badly." The teen taunted earning a quick playful glare from the girl as they moved quickly toward the stand.
"The Usurper and the Renegades! Welcome!"
The man running the stand said as Naruto sighed, "That name's gonna stick, isn't it?" The teen complained while Tayuya nudged him.
"Quit whining and teach us how to play this game."
The girl said with a smile as Naruto looked back at her before he looked toward the game.
"Basically, you guys are going to take this paper scoop and try to grab as many fish as possible. Whoever gets the most wins, I'll go easy on you guys of course."
Naruto said with a grin while Boro inspected the paper scoop, "Aren't these usually rigged to sap us of our money?" the brown-haired teen asked as Tsubasa gave him a look.
"I doubt it, I'm sure everyone here wouldn't do that."
Tsubasa said, causing Boro to smirk, "Damn, who died and brought back your faith in humanity?" the teen spoke as Fu narrowed her eyes at the brown-haired boy.
"Oi! Face my wrath or are you a coward?!"
Fu declared as Boro smirked darkly at her, "Oh? Getting cheeky, eh? Try not to cry too hard when I beat you!" The teen yelled as they both took their scoops.
They immediately plunged them into the water starting their fierce competition only for them to break immediately.
"Damn it."
Boro said while Fu grabbed another one along with him only for it happen again, "Damn it." Fu said while Yugito walked toward them with a sigh.
"You're both being too rough."
Yugito said as she assisted them, meanwhile Naruto eyed the water with his scoop in hand. Temari came to mind as the blonde narrowed his eyes at the water.
"Just you wait! I'll catch up to you!"
Naruto was about to plunge his scoop in the water but was cut off by the sound of a throat clearing, "Um Naruto… I've never played this before so could you show me how?"
Haruka asked as Naruto looked toward her, "Yeah, of course." He said with a smile as he sat next to her.
"So, there's a secret to this game, you can't plunge it in automatically as soon as you see the fish. You gotta be patient."
Naruto explained as Haruka clearly wasn't paying any attention to what he was explaining instead staring at his face and eyes with the occasional nod.
"Haruka?"
Naruto asked as the girl broke from her stupor, "Y-yes of course… I was just thinking, this is like the time we fished together with our hands. That was fun." The brown-haired girl said with a smile as Naruto nodded.
"Yeah, it was. That's actually a good example, just keep that in mind and we'll try it together at first."
Naruto said as Haruka nodded her head while fanning her face, she hoped any kind of redness would die down as the teen brought their hands to the water.
"So first we gotta-"
Naruto was cut off as Haruka almost perfectly scooped her first fish into the bag, "I think I-" the girl was cut off as Naruto stared toward her in shock.
"That was perfect… You sure you need hel-"
Naruto was cut off as Haruka quickly dropped her bag into the water, "Oh my, I was surprised. I wasn't expecting that and must have slipped. Could you show me how to do it properly?" The girl asked as Naruto stared at her for a few moments before he slowly nodded his head.
"Sure…"
Slight disbelief was in his voice as he gently guided her hands to assist her.
"She's so blatant, she's obviously messing around just to get him to help. It's annoying."
Tayuya said while she looked toward Tsubasa whose paper scoop was dissolving in the water. "Pretty sure that's not how you do that." the girl said while the teen looked in her eyes.
"Are you jealous?"
Tsubasa asked while Tayuya quickly shot him a look, "Huh? Jealous of what? Acting like I'm helpless just for Naruto's attention? Nope." The girl said while the teen stared at her.
"I see… I finally get it. I think."
He said with a slight smile on his face causing Tayuya to raise an eyebrow, "Get what? You better not have any funny ideas, Edgelord." The reddish haired girl watched him nod.
"You… Don't really understand romance, do you? I don't either."
Tsubasa said while Tayuya huffed, "Romance? Please, who has time to understand that garbage? I never had any reason to in the first place, I'm the honored one. It's literally beneath me." the girl said, holding her nose up while Tsubasa smiled.
"You just said 'had'."
Tsubasa said, causing Tayuya to quickly look at him shaking her head, "Empty your head of those thoughts, Shithead is just my person. Nothing more!" the girl yelled while Tsubasa sweatdropped.
"You don't even know how that sounds… I hope I can at least try to understand it more. I'm pretty sure I have a reason to now."
Tsubasa said while Tayuya raised an eyebrow at him as he smiled to himself looking at the water, "Love is pretty stupid. I wouldn't waste your time trying to understand it. Some things you just gotta fall into it I guess." the girl said causing Tsubasa to look at her in surprise.
"That makes sense actually… thank you."
Tsubasa said while Tayuya scoffed while looking away, "That wasn't advice, I'm just pointing out a fallacy that's all." the girl said while Tsubasa nodded not taking her seriously.
Boro meanwhile caught a glimpse of Naruto helping Haruka, "I can do that too!" The brown-haired boy said, now using his scoop even faster into the water to catch fish trying to get Haruka's attention.
"Getting serious huh?! Me too!"
Fu thinking he was getting competitive began to use her scoop faster too, sending water splashing up between the both of them. Yugito could only smile, entertained by their antics as the Renegades continued their game.
Soon mostly covered by water, the Renegades were now walking around together hitting different stands in the festival.
Fu excitedly led them as Naruto tried to keep her from getting lost. Yugito watched with a small smile gracing her features, happy that they were able to have this much fun.
Tsubasa walked with Boro and Haruka, the brown-haired teen trying to impress the girl while she giggled at his antics.
They walked into a crowd that were rushing toward another area of the festival containing a stage soon enough, Tayuya was the first to realize it.
"Oi Shithead!"
The girl yelled out while Naruto sighed, "Where did she go?" The blond said as the reddish haired girl nudged him. "She ain't the only one missing." Tayuya said simply as Naruto's eyes widened before he looked around, somehow everyone had been missing out of sight.
"Huh… HUH?!"
{...}
"Boom!"
Boro exclaimed as he knocked down another target with the toy bow in his hands, the teen smiled as he received the prize from the stand owner.
It was a small bear plush.
"Here."
Boro said, handing the stuffed animal to Haruka who was looking distracted into the crowd, "Oh." The girl said while the brown-haired boy cleared his throat.
"Bears aren't really my thing, so I figured I'd give it to you."
Boro said, looking away from her eyes as the shorter girl took the bear, "Where do you think Naruto and the others went? I think we lost them?" Haruka asked making the boy deflate slightly.
"I'm sure they're all fine. It's a festival, being lost ain't so bad."
Boro said while Haruka gave him a look, "Still we shouldn't be separated for too long, we should at least try to find them." The girl said while the boy stared at her before he sighed.
"Fine, let's go."
He dragged his words as they began to walk together, his yellow eyes couldn't help but look at her focused face.
"...What's so good about him?"
Boro asked, causing Haruka to look toward him, "What do you mean?" she asked as the brown-haired boy scratched the back of his head.
"You know… Naruto. I mean I can kind of get it, he's kind, has a big heart, and is strong. The guy never gives up… I guess he's not bad on the eyes for girls. Dang, now I sound like I'm into him."
Boro said, causing Haruka to laugh a little before she looked at him, "Naruto is all of those things but that isn't what it is… He's gentle." the girl said while the boy tilted his head.
"Gentle?"
Boro asked while Haruka nodded her head before she looked at her wrist, "When he's close you can feel how dangerous he is… but even with his strength he still chooses to be gentle. He's always trying his best to be aware of it… it's not something I'm used to." The girl said as Boro realized what she was saying.
"...That's- it makes sense."
Boro said while Haruka exhaled, "I trust him… I trust the rest of you guys too but he's just... Different." The girl said, causing the brown-haired boy to look down.
He opened his mouth to say something, but the sound of a growling stomach stopped him, Haruka suddenly wrapped her arms around herself.
"Oh. Somebody's hungry."
Boro teased as Haruka shook her head, "You didn't hear a thing, we have to keep looking for them." The girl said trying to walk forward but was stopped by a single finger hooking into her obi stopping her from walking.
"Nah. You need something to eat. Let's go."
The boy said, causing Haruka to give him a look as he dragged her toward a food stand.
Soon they found themselves sitting in a stand with bowls being placed in front of them, seasoned beef decorated the top of rice noodles along with an assortment of greens.
"Eat up, Lady. You aren't walking around on an empty stomach."
Boro said while Haruka gave him a look before she sighed begrudgingly beginning to eat, "You don't have to worry about me." The girl said as Boro ate a piece of beef.
"Too bad cause I will, and I do. You don't get a choice."
The boy said as Haruka looked toward him before she began to eat, Boro's yellow eyes watched her as her hunger was showing itself.
The normally dainty girl was eating almost ravenously, the brown-haired teen could only watch as she scarfed down her food.
Haruka seemed to realize that not only his eyes were on her, but the eyes of other patrons were as well making her very conscious of herself.
"I'm finished. Let's just go and we'll-"
The girl was cut off by a loud slurp, her honey-colored eyes landed on Boro who started digging into his food messily. "Don't worry about them, even if I gotta make myself look like an idiot I'll make sure you can eat how you like… you got two to feed after all." Boro said before he continued to eat messily causing the attention to be taken by him, Haruka looked at the boy with surprise as he did his best to put on a show.
Just for her.
Haruka looked toward her bowl before she continued to eat alongside him, "This is so good!" Boro yelled, continuing his show as Haruka laughed a little. Soon they were both back on their feet walking together, Haruka watched Boro's back as she sighed satisfied from her meal.
"I'm sorry."
Haruka apologized as Boro shook his head, "I ain't hearing it, you gotta eat too. I won't let anyone stare." He said while the girl slowly nodded.
"Recently, I've been feeling a little gross… I know it's the pregnancy, but I still can't help but be conscious of it. I shouldn't be eating like that and I'm slow and sluggish because of my weight and-"
Haruka was cut off as she bumped into Boro who suddenly stopped, "Boro?" The girl asked as he suddenly turned around looking closely at her face as his eyes flicked across it.
"What are you doing?"
Haruka asked, feeling very conscious as Boro leaned back smiling at her, "Looking for something gross… turns out I don't see a thing." the teen said while the girl blinked.
"If you're gross, then every woman in the world would want to be gross too."
Boro said before he gave her a big toothy grin, "Your weight, the way you eat, even while feeling sluggish you aren't even a little gross. You're beautiful, Haruka. That's why these people can't take their eyes off of you." The boy said with a genuine smile on his face.
Haruka was taken off guard by his sudden declaration as Boro huffed, "Gross wishes it was you." The teen joked suddenly causing the girl to giggle slightly.
"That's not how that works."
Haruka said before she spotted Boro crouch, "As for the slow part, let this mutt fix that." The boy said while the girl stared at his back.
"Boro. Get up, you don't have to do that."
Haruka said while the teen huffed, "I'm not hearing it. Hop on, I'm sure your feet are hurting from all the walking." The brown-haired teen said while the girl stared at his back.
He had a point, her feet in these sandals were killing her. But what about him? He had already done so much for her so far… Suddenly she caught a glimpse of him smiling toward her, the girl remained frozen for a moment before she found herself walking toward him.
Haruka climbed on his back slowly as Boro slowly stood to his feet, the girl noticed how he was bent almost in half.
"Am I heavy?"
Haruka asked while Boro shook his head, "Nope, light as a feather!" The teen exclaimed as she chuckled watching him struggle being bent over.
"Then why are you bent over like this?"
Haruka asked with a slight smile on her face as the teen huffed, "I don't want to squish the kid, if you're on my back wouldn't that be bad?" Boro asked as the girl smiled.
She wrapped her arms around his neck gently pulling him to sit up more comfortably, "I trust you. I'll be fine. I promise." The girl said before Boro slowly nodded his head.
"If you say so, Princess. Hang on tight, we're going full speed ahead."
Boro said before he suddenly started jogging making Haruka yelp before she slapped the boy on his back playfully. Her honey eyes lingered on the back of Boro's head for a moment as she took a deep breath before finally relaxing.
Gently smiling as she rode on the back of the teen.
{...}
Tsubasa pushed his way through the crowd, it was only a second ago, but he could have sworn he had Fu right next to him. He could hear the way she cheered and pushed him toward another game but now, he couldn't find her at all.
"Fu!"
Tsubasa called as he pushed his way through the crowd more while his head whipped around, his eyes scanning for the girl as he continued to move forward.
He didn't think it was possible to lose her with the girl benign as loud as she was but in an ocean of people she had vanished, he needed to find her.
"Fu! Can you hear me?"
Tsubasa called before he pushed his way out into a small clearing, there were a few benches with several lanterns hung up high above them. It was a resting area for those who wanted to take a break from the festivities of the celebration.
The gray-haired teen looked around the resting area before he sighed, he was about to walk back into the crowd, but he was stopped by a voice.
"Tsubasa?"
The voice called making the teen freeze in his tracks, this voice was one he hadn't heard in a long time at this point. It was to the point he couldn't hide the surprise in his features as he looked toward the girl, it was slow, but his eyes eventually met her features.
"I'm sorry, I don't think you'd just recognize me… You didn't even tell me your name last time we met but-"
The teen cut her off as their eyes met, "You're the Kamaguri heir… From the prison with Yuria." Tsubasa spoke as the young woman smiled, brushing some of her black hair out of her face.
"Please, call me Seiko. It's been a little while hasn't it?"
Seiko said while Tsubasa silently nodded his head at her, "I have to confess… I was hoping to meet you here. I heard about your attack against the Bandit King as well as this celebration. I came with the intent of seeing you again." the young woman said as Tsubasa gave her a look.
"Why? I told you back then I didn't need anything from you."
Tsubasa said while the black-haired woman shook her head, "I never got to properly thank you, you just left after I tried. I couldn't just allow that… you saved my life." Seiko said as Tsubasa stared at her.
"I… didn't do it to save you. Saving you was just something that happened, you have no reason to be grateful. It was my own selfishness that kept you from dying."
Tsubasa said while Seiko smiled, "Then I'm glad you were selfish… you still didn't have to save me even then. You know that as well, yet you chose too anyway." the young woman said as Tsubasa gave her a look of surprise before he exhaled.
"I guess you're right… I didn't have to and yet I did anyway. Regardless, I'm glad to see that you're ok after the fact."
Tsubasa said, causing Seiko to look at him with shock, the deep darkness she once saw in his eyes had softened. The fire in his eyes was calm instead of destructive inferno like the first time she laid eyes on him. "You…you seem like you've changed since we last met." the black-haired woman said while a soft look graced Tsubasa's features.
"It doesn't feel like it but… I suppose I have changed, if only a little."
The smoky haired teen said as Seiko tilted her head, "What happened?" she asked as Tsubasa looked into her dark eyes before he spoke.
"I met someone… Someone that made the dark of the world seem a little brighter. I also met others, they're all different but they all share good hearts. Better ones than mine... I guess I wanted to be like them. I wanted my life to be more than what it was."
Tsubasa explained while Seiko felt a smile curl on her lips, "The Bandit King… I heard you mention his name back then. Now he's dead… the land is free and your revenge… It's finally fulfilled now, right?" the young woman said as the gray-haired teen stared at her before his eyes looked into the sky.
"It's over… but I still feel like it isn't. He's dead but I can still feel those sparks of fury within me. I'm not sure if I can find peace even in his death at the moment."
Tsubasa spoke while Seiko stepped closer to him, "Peace isn't something you have to find alone if you don't know where to start… What will you do after this?" Seiko asked, leaving Tsubasa speechless for a moment as she took another step closer to him.
"I want to thank you… I can work with my family. We could find you a job, give you a home. A place where you won't have to struggle with those embers still in you alone. I wouldn't let you deal with that alone."
Seiko said as her hand grabbed his, her fingers gently interlocking with his as Tsubasa's head faced her. "You're a good man, Tsubasa… I know it in my heart." she spoke as Tsubasa's eyes widened.
Meanwhile Fu cheerful moved through the crowd with a smile on her face, she had two dango sticks in her hand as she continued to move forward.
"Fu, are you certain you know where Tsubasa is? You shouldn't have run off without him. Let alone everyone else."
Chomei's voice echoed in her head while Fu nodded, "Yeah, of course I do. His scent is hard to miss, it's like charcoal!" Fu exclaimed affectionately as she continued to move through the crowd.
"See? My nose says he's over here!"
Fu suddenly started moving toward the resting area, the first thing she was going to do was sneak up on him. Tsubasa didn't emote a lot but when he did, he never failed to be entertaining, from his surprised faces to his peaceful smiles.
For someone who claimed to be so distant from being a person, Fu could hardly think of someone who could be so human. Putting a smile on his face had slowly become one of her goals as time passed, it was a goal she was hoping to continue to do for a long time.
Alas.
Fu's eyes caught sight of Seiko holding Tsubasa's hand. Her eyes were looking intently into his, "You could come with me. I promise that I won't leave you to face all of that alone." Seiko said while the green haired girl could only blink.
Dango sticks hit the ground as she stared at them, for her it went eerily silent in her head only focused on the sight in front of her. She could see that look in Seiko's eyes, whatever words that would come out of them were honest.
That look of sheer affection.
"Oh."
Fu said simply before she quickly turned away from them, "Fu… Tsubasa was right there? Why are you walking away?" Chomei asked as the girl continued to walk.
"Well obviously he's busy… interrupting him would be rude. I'm not a rude person."
Fu said keeping the smile on her face as she continued walking almost directionless while Chomei could already detect something was off, "Those treats, you left to share them with Tsubasa. You dropped them." the tailed beast said while Fu shrugged.
"Guess I did huh? It doesn't matter; I can just get myself something else. Tsubasa... He's probably not hungry anyway. I shouldn't bother him."
Fu said while Chomei could only say nothing as the girl's plastered smile stayed on her face as she looked toward the stage, they were playing music on stage. This is what created that large crowd that separated them, but Fu didn't hear any music.
She didn't hear any applause; it was muted while she just stared at the music players on stage. Her fingers wiggled and gripped, only closing into a fist with nothing in them.
Oddly enough, her hand felt strangely empty.
Fu looked at the ground before she started walking again, the girl didn't get far. She suddenly felt a hand grab onto hers, Fu's head snapped toward the other hand spotting familiar messy gray colored hair.
"'Basa?"
"You dropped these."
Tsubasa said simply with a small smile on his face before holding up two dirty sticks of dango, Fu could only stare at him before a chuckle came out of her mouth. "Those have dirt all over them, dummy." the green haired girl said while Tsubasa shrugged.
"You got these for us, right? I was worried when I couldn't find you but thank you. I won't let them go to waste."
Tsubasa said, causing Fu to smile before it quickly dropped from her face. "You and that girl… You were talking and I didn't want to interrupt. It sounded like she was saying something pretty important, you should just drop that to come find me." the girl said while Tsubasa stared at her.
"She already said what she wanted to say… So, I did the same."
Tsubasa spoke, causing Fu's stomach to drop before she looked back into his eyes, "What did you say?" the girl asked knowing that the answer might disturb her, but she had to know.
"...I said. You're welcome. She was thanking me for saving her life and I finally accepted her thanks… She also said something else and to that I said. I don't know where I'm going to go next or where destiny or fate will end up leading me, but there's one place that I want to be next…"
Tsubasa said while Fu gave him a confused look, "What place is that?" she asked curiously before his hand tightened around hers before he gave her the most genuine smile, she had seen from him in ever.
"Dancing with you."
Tsubasa said simply yet the seriousness in his tone was clear, Fu stared back at the boy speechless just looking into his eyes.
"Fu?"
The smoky haired teen asked while the girl wiped at her face with a hand as she began to laugh, "Fine, then we'll dance!" The girl said quickly, grabbing his hands.
"Wait, I still don't know what I'm doing."
Tsubasa said with a slight chuckle in his throat, "All you have to do is follow my lead, place your hand here." Fu said, guiding his hand to her side making him flinch slightly.
"Right."
Tsubasa said with a nervousness to his tone as Fu placed one of her hands on his shoulder before using the other to grab his free one. "We'll support one another, so just move when I move." Fu said while Tsubasa nodded, she took a step backward causing the boy to copy her, almost breaking them apart.
"No silly, you go the opposite way. If I move backward, you move forward, then the same for other directions."
Fu said with a giggle while Tsubasa swallowed before nodding his head slowly, they reset this time Tsubasa followed her lead.
As she moved backward, he moved toward her slowly before they found their rhythm. "You got it! You're a natural!" Fu cheered while Tsubasa smiled slightly.
"I'm pretty sure, just copying you isn't natural. You're a good teacher anyway."
Tsubasa said, causing Fu to stare into his fiery eyes for a moment, she took her hands away from their position before opting to wrap them around him. Fu held onto the boy close as his arms were still in the air, he relaxed, allowing himself to close them around the girl. She was small in comparison to him, Tsubasa could only feel like he was holding a delicate flower in his hands.
A flower he wouldn't crush even if it took all the strength he had.
"I know your whole thing is fire and stuff but… you're really warm in a gentle kind of way."
Fu spoke as they swayed, Tsubasa looked at the girl whose head was pressed against his chest. "I think… I'm not really all that warm. For a while, I just felt cold. The fire within me couldn't ever change that cold, but… I think the warmest thing about me is you." The teen spoke as a hand lightly hit his chest.
"Stop that. You don't get points for passing off your qualities to others. You really are warm, Tsubasa. I'll make sure you won't get cold again."
Fu said while Tsubasa felt another smile crawling on his lips, "I didn't know we were keeping score… Thank you." he said while Fu nodded once.
"Your heart is racing… Do you get like this when everyone is this close to you?"
Fu asked while Tsubasa stared at her before he looked up at the sky, he could hardly hear the music anymore before his gaze softened at the night sky.
"No… Just you."
Tsubasa said, causing Fu's eyes to widen as she looked up to the teen who looked back down into her eyes, flower orange met fire as the girl froze.
Oh.
That must be what Yugito was talking about.
A hand made its way to Tsubasa's cheek, her fingers gently ran across it as the boy's hand engulfed hers under it. Warmth swelled in both of them as Fu pulled his head closer to hers, it felt like she was on autopilot while Tsubasa went along with it.
Their foreheads touched as their eyes never left each other's gaze, Fu pushed closer further trying to close the gap.
However, the sound of loud popping caught their attention as they stopped moving toward one another. Fu directed her gaze toward the fireworks popping above while Tsubasa did the same, "The fireworks…" the boy said as the green haired girl looked at his face.
Fu felt her face warm up as the events of the last few moments rushed through her brain again. "Oh um… Crap! The fireworks, I wanted to watch them with everyone! Come on 'Basa! Let's go!" Fu whose face was now a burning red tugged on Tsubasa's hand dragging him from his spot as she dashed.
"Um, right."
{...}
"Crap, where did everyone go?"
Naruto asked while Tayuya followed behind him, a thought had come to her mind. She was so focused on her training that she didn't even realize it properly.
She's been walking on her own really well.
Thanks to the boy walking around with her at the moment, through thick and thin and miles upon miles. They have had each other's backs and supported one another.
It was a foreign feeling for her, the Sound 4 was a group. A team, each one of them specializing in a component that added to that team. With Naruto though, it was just the two of them for the most part. Someone she felt like she didn't have to constantly be strong around.
A part of her hoped he felt the same.
"Oi, Shithead."
Tayuya called for the teen who turned toward her, "Yeah?" Naruto asked before she huffed.
"You know our gaggle of goons is filled with a bunch of capable people, why stress so much about them being missing at the moment?"
Tayuya asked while Naruto sighed, "We're supposed to be having fun together. It's kinda hard to do that when we get scattered like this." the blond said, causing the girl to shrug.
"You know it sounds like you're too busy being worried about everyone else rather than yourself, I thought your whole freedom kick was about 'Whatever you want'."
Tayuya quoted Naruto who chuckled, "That's cause it is, but you guys are whatever I want at the moment. I just want everyone to enjoy themselves after what we've been through." the blond said before he was flicked.
"You don't think they want the same for you? You can't constantly be an unshakable leader; we want you to have fun too. Idiot."
Tayuya said causing Naruto to look toward her before she held a hand out to him, "You got a mission at the moment, you said you'd show us non festival goers how to have fun. So, miserable Tayuya is still here. Your job ain't done yet, Shithead." the girl said while the blond smiled.
"You're on."
Naruto said before taking her hand, Tayuya wiped her hand over her own small smile as she was taken to another booth.
A ball was thrown knocking over a tower of cans, "Easy, we really gotta do simple crap like this for a prize?" Tayuya asked while Naruto pointed at her.
"There's a technique to this y'know?"
Naruto said only to be ignored by the girl who as winding up a fast ball pitch, "Nothing a hard ball can't fix!" Tayuya pitched her ball at the cans only knocking off a few.
"Told ya."
Naruto said, trying not to laugh while Tayuya fumed, "This shit is rigged! There's no damn way that didn't knock over some flimsy cans?!" the girl yelled while the blond snickered.
"I'll take that one."
Naruto pointed out a prize while Tayuya growled, "You fucking laughing at me? I'm going again and I'm knocking down these cans!" The girl said, winding up another throw.
She pitched another throw only knocking down a few more cans, "Fuck!" Tayuya yelled before grabbing another ball.
The sound of wood splintering echoed through Naruto and the booth owner's ears as Tayuya glared at a ball that flew at the cans hitting the wall behind it.
"...I'm sorry."
Naruto said while the booth owner sweatdropped, "Oi, Shitty Can Owner. Reset these so I can smash them properly this time." Tayuya requested, causing the blond to sigh.
"Tayuya."
Naruto said while the girl shot him a look before huffing, "...Please." The word rolled off of her tongue like a lead weight as the booth owner reset the cans.
Naruto laughed as Tayuya launched another ball at the tower of cans.
The pair was walking together as Tayuya continued to fume, "Ha! How was that for technique? Those cans didn't stand a chance." the girl said while Naruto narrowed his eyes at her.
"Weren't you the one that made us stay at that booth until you won?"
Naruto asked before he was nudged, "Quiet you." Tayuya said before something was held out in front of her.
"This is for you."
Naruto said while Tayuya's brown eyes stared at the foreign object before she realized what it was, it was a black cap that had the image of a monster octopus on it.
"I figured since you burned your old one a while back that I'd get you a new one."
Naruto said while Tayuya stared at the cap, "First my flute and now a cap? You planning on replacing everything of mine you broke?" Tayuya asked with the humor in her voice being present.
"I didn't break your flute… or your cap now that I think about it. You burned that on your own."
Naruto said, causing the girl to chuckle, "Don't expect me to wear it." Tayuya said quickly while the blonde just nodded.
They walked together a little further before a black object was held out toward him, Naruto quickly identified that it was a wallet.
"Huh?"
Naruto asked while Tayuya looked away, "Yeah, it's a wallet. It was one of the shitty prizes, I figured it was about time to retire Gama-chan." The reddish haired girl added with a smile.
"Huh?! No way, Gama-chan is just fine! Look!"
Naruto said taking out the beaten looking frog wallet, they both stared at it for a moment before the girl patted him on the shoulder.
"Don't."
Naruto said while Tayuya grinned, "Don't worry. We'll give her a good sendoff ceremony after we burn her." The girl said with a laugh as the boy clutched the wallet protectively.
"You're cruel."
Naruto said, causing Tayuya to laugh, she then watched as he begrudgingly moved his money from one wallet to another before stashing Gama-chan.
"Thanks."
Naruto said while Tayuya stared at him, "How are you always like this?" The girl asked while the blond raised an eyebrow.
"Even when you lost your memories, you've always been… Kind, I guess. It's like the world can't dent your soul, everything you've been through, and you can still say thank you with a smile."
Tayuya said while Naruto scratched the back of his head, "I used to find it strange too. It's an active choice I make though, if I want to make the world a kinder place then I have to be kind, right?" The blond said as Tayuya nodded.
"Right, but isn't that a burden on you? You gotta choose to do that every single day despite everything. Isn't that difficult?"
Tayuya asked while Naruto stopped walking, "Honestly… Yeah. It is, but I've got all of you. You're my friends… So, you make it worth it. It means something because of you guys." the boy responded as the reddish haired girl stared at him.
"Naruto… Thank you."
Tayuya said, causing the blond's eyes to widen, "Now I ain't getting mushy or anything but… You got my legs back… You brought me back from the brink of death and I've never felt freer. So, thank you. I'm not used to shit like this so that's all you get." The girl said with a light huff but a smile on her face.
"Tayuya…"
Naruto said while the girl smirked, "We still have plenty of adventures to go on, so buckle up. You aren't gonna be done with me for a while." Tayuya said as the boy's expression softened.
"I'd never be done with you, Tayuya."
Naruto said as the sounds of popping filled the air, blue eyes looked into the sky while brown eyes stared at him. "Looks like the fireworks are going off. I hope everyone else is getting a good view." Naruto said while Tayuya wordlessly stared at him, the girl took a step forward. Her fingers grabbed the boy's sleeve making him look toward her.
Even if it was only for a few moments…
She wanted to enjoy this with him.
Tayuya kept her eyes locked with Naruto's as she slowly intertwined her fingers with his, Naruto didn't fight back or even flinch. Instead, she only felt warmth as his fingers crossed with hers, his grip was light but firm on her hand.
There it was again.
That damned smile.
"Is this a bad time?"
Yugito suddenly asked, making Tayuya leap out of her skin, snatching her hand away from Naruto's, "Damn it! Why are you sneaking up on people?!" the girl yelled.
"Yugito, I'm glad you're alright!"
Naruto exclaimed while Tayuya didn't miss the entertained expression on the woman's face, "Of course, I'm sorry we ended up getting separated, but I found everyone." The woman said while a panting Boro was behind her.
"Found ya!"
Boro exclaimed while Haruka tapped him on the back, "I think I'm fine to walk now, don't push yourself." The brown-haired girl said while getting off of him.
"We missed the fireworks!"
Fu yelled while dragging Tsubasa behind her, "They're still going though?" He stated as soon as the fireworks stopped.
"Oh."
Tsubasa said while Haruka blinked, "It looks like we missed them, it should be ok though." The girl rationalized while Fu groaned.
"We totally missed out on such a memorable scene! Fireworks are classic!"
The green haired girl tugged at her hair as Boro shrugged, "They're just fireworks, I don't really see the big idea. Don't you think the memorable parts were the experiences we made along the way?" The boy was with a wise looking gaze on his face.
"You think that makes up for missing cool fireworks?!"
Fu shook the boy by his collar while whining, "I unbelievably agree with Boro for once. I have to say though the time was short… I have made very precious memories with you all." Yugito spoke while Tayuya stuck her tongue out.
"Ew."
Yugito gave the younger girl an amused look while Tayuya looked away from her, "I think that's the thing that really matters. I'll remember today for the rest of my life, fireworks or not." Tsubasa said, suddenly causing Naruto to perk up.
"Wait. That's it!"
Naruto exclaimed while the rest of the group gave him a look, "What's it, Shithead?" Tayuya asked while the teen pointed at her.
"A way to remember this day, I've got it. Just follow me!"
Naruto exclaimed as he suddenly began to dash, "Hold on!" Tayuya yelled while chasing, followed slowly by Yugito.
"Lead the way, Naruto!"
Fu yelled while she dashed as well, the Renegades followed the running blonde through the festival road.
{...}
"Right there. That should be perfect."
A man said while he was setting up a camera, "A picture, huh? It's a good way to make this event a memory." Yugito stated simply while Fu was pushing her.
"Yugi, you gotta pose!"
Fu exclaimed while the woman gave her an amused look, "Oh? And what kind of pose do you recommend?" The blonde humored her while the girl immediately struck a pose.
"Something fun! I could do this one, or maybe a peace sign?"
Fu pondered while Boro rubbed his chin, "Alright gang, let's organize. Tall people in the back and short people in the front. Shall we, Haruka?" The brown-haired teen asked while the girl smiled.
"Sounds like a plan."
Haruka chirped while Boro smiled, only for it to slowly fade as she walked toward Naruto. "Hold on. Wait a minute!" The boy yelled while the girl turned innocently.
"You said tall people in the back, Naruto is taller than me so wouldn't it work better if I was standing with him?"
Haruka explained while Boro deflated, "I'm way taller than that guy though…" the boy said while Tsubasa gave Fu a look.
"Does this look ok?"
Tsubasa asked, holding up a halfhearted peace sign causing the girl to laugh, "You gotta add more pizzazz to it." Fu answered as she leaned her back against him.
"See?"
Fu said holding up her peace sign with flair, the smoky haired teen smiled clearly only paying attention to just her.
"Alright, it's tall people in the back, right? It's going to look uneven with just these two up there."
Tayuya said while Naruto raised an eyebrow, "What are you talking about, you're in front too." The blond said while Tayuya growled.
"Huh?! I'm tall, definitely taller than those two!"
Tayuya yelled while the boy leaned toward her emphasizing the difference in their height with a smile on his face.
"Yup, definitely up front."
Naruto said while Tayuya tugged on his ear, "Shaddup, I still remember when you were a tiny shrimp. Don't start acting smart because you grew a little!" The girl said while the boy groaned.
The entire time the camera man watched as they organized themselves as well as the chaos, they all brought to the table. He couldn't help but watch the scene with a smile on his face and without knowing it.
The picture was snapped.
The flash caught everyone off guard as the camera man's jaw dropped, "My apologies! I just-" the man was cut off by Naruto holding his hand out.
"No worries, let me see it?"
The teen asked while as the picture came out of the camera the man handed it over to him, "Ooh ooh! Let me see!" Fu said while she slipped underneath Naruto's arm.
The rest of the Renegades looked at the picture as well as Naruto held onto it.
Boro was scratching the back of his head with a sheepish smile while Haruka who was trying to stand closer to the blonde smile at the brown-haired teen politely. Right next to him was Tsubasa who wasn't even looking at the camera, instead his gaze was focused on Fu while the green haired girl held up a peace sign and a smile.
Yugito had a smile on her face as she wasn't looking at the camera either, she paid attention to the antics of Fu, Tsubasa, Boro, and Haruka.
In the front of the picture without taking anyone else out of the frame was Tayuya holding onto Naruto's ear. She had a smirk on her face while Naruto smiled back at her.
"...Dang it. My eyes were closed!"
Fu whined while Boro pointed at the picture, "And I look like an idiot!" the teen said while Yugito smirked slightly.
"So, you looked normal?"
Yugito said, causing the teen to give her a hurt look, Tsubasa didn't comment, only silently looking at the picture with a warm expression. "Damn it. I got caught on this damn thing smiling. We need a redo." Tayuya complained while Naruto looked at the cameraman, "This is perfect. Thank you!" The teen exclaimed to the surprise of Boro and Tayuya.
"Shithead, this picture sucks and you know it!"
"Naruto, bro… please we gotta take it again. I don't look cool at all in this!"
Boro and Tayuya complained while Naruto stared at the picture.
For a moment he was taken back to a little over a year ago, when he was in that rainy forest just outside the Leaf eating that bowl of ramen alone.
Now…
He was surrounded by friends after everything.
"No… This is the one."
Naruto said while everyone caught the thoughtful look on his face, they all looked at each other before Yugito nodded.
"I agree, it captures the natural atmosphere of our little team perfectly."
The woman said while Haruka nodded her head slowly, "...I guess it works. It won't kill me; we can take more pictures anyway." Boro said while Tsubasa patted him on the back.
"I think you look cool, Boro."
Tsubasa said while the boy sniffled, "Thanks bro." Boro said while Fu gave a thumbs up.
"It's a picture with all my friends, it's perfect to me no matter what it looks like."
Fu spoke before she looked at Tayuya, "What? You think I'm prone to agree? I'm not just gonna jump on the paddywagon." the girl said before she looked down.
"It's… ok. I guess. There, happy?"
Tayuya said, trying not to give away the embarrassed look on her face, Fu pulled her arm into a hug with a smile as Naruto pocketed the picture.
"Ready to go back for more?"
Naruto asked while Fu pumped a fist, "Born ready. Let's go, Yuya!" The girl said as Tayuya's eyes shot wide open.
"Hold on, wait a sec!"
Tayuya yelled as she was dragged off by Fu who was followed by Boro and Haruka, Tsubasa lingered with Naruto. "We don't want to lose them again." Yugito said before she walked after them, Tsubasa nodded as he looked at Naruto.
"Naruto… thank you for today. I would have missed out on this if I-"
Tsubasa was cut off by Naruto's hand touching his shoulder, "It's thanks to all of us, Tsubasa. Let's have fun, there's a time for mushy stuff later." The boy said to the taller one who nodded.
Tsubasa began walking toward the rest of the group as Naruto stared at the night sky, the stars twinkled brightly as he held a hand toward them. "Naruto!" Tayuya yelled while the Renegades were waiting for him, "Come on! We ain't losing you this time." The girl yelled as the blond smiled.
"Yeah… Let's go!"
Naruto jogged after the rest of the Renegades as Fu began to lead them through the festival with excitement filling her features.
No matter what life tossed at them next. Naruto was sure that no matter what they would be able to make it through together as they moved forward. The picture that was in Naruto's pocket was framed as soon as they returned back to their base, it sat on a table as the morning light poured in.
Their faces illuminated as they were around one another.
For that one moment, still together.
