Vanadis Odr

by Slurpy Noodles

The death of his parents broke something in him. A black flame ignited, consuming his soul in unholy vengeance. The darkness within him ran rampant and free, yet there was light that could also be seen. The journey is an arduous one, full of trial and grief, but he will persevere until his goal's complete. It started with the dragon of dread, it will all end with the dragon's head.

6. Chapter 5: It's Party Time

Welcome to chapter 5 everybody! Hope you all are having an amazing day. Today, there is something I want to address. Well, two.

First, I had just noticed that in chapter 2 Allen is level 5. That is wrong, he is level 4 at the moment. By the time this launches, it should be fixed, so for any of you day 1 readers, that's why it's different from before.

Second is a review I got from a guest user who will be known as Bro. Bro, I implore and ask you to read this to the end. I fear that you will not read it to the end, so I just want to make sure to ask just in case you do feel tempted to back off my story or review too early on my words.

To your review, yes I do realize that the multiple status updates are a sort of cheat to bloat up the word count, and I do thank you for pointing that out. I will be working on fixing that bad habit of mine. But one thing I will not do is skip the updated falna and save it for the end of the chapter.

I don't believe that will properly flow with the story and will only frustrate people. I'll use myself as an example for this.

You see, It frustrates me when I see instances where the falna is updated but the author doesn't elaborate on the updated status in a similar way you see me do in my own fanfic. It just makes me feel disappointed and aggravated because my curiosity towards the update isn't satisfied in the next few sentences or even paragraphs. It brings about the urge to just skip the rest of the chapter to see it, and any sign of that dwindles my patience, tolerance, and respect for the story. That decline is what motivates me to exit the story, sometimes almost immediately. It's a disappointing feeling when you're closing the browser on the fic. it feels like, to me, wasted potential in a story, and that is something I absolutely abhor. It is because of that same feeling I experience that I don't do something similar to that.

NOTE that I am not saying this to shame or admonish you or any reader out there. If your, and I'm saying this to everyone, preference is the opposite of my own, then please enjoy it to the fullest. This is merely my personal opinion that I'm stating, nothing else.

I will be adding the status updates the same way I have been when it's been called for. This is a boundary I will not bend on. I say this with the utmost respect, but if you take issue with it, I will offer neither apologies nor compromises. It is a personal principle, one that I hold firmly and will not alter. Maybe I'm mistaking what you're trying to say, but this is what I have interpreted from it.

HOWEVER, that does not mean I will be scrapping your complaint. I promise you that from now on that there won't be nearly as many status updates in chapters and will only happen once every few chapters. There will be some instances where I feel like it would be warranted to place the updates in back to back chapters, but nothing more than that. Also, if the status update has already been written in the chapter it will not appear again. You have my word on that.

I hope that this change will allow you to enjoy this story, and if not, then all I can do is wish you the very best in what you desire and let you be on your way. If you feel like something is off, I will be more than happy to accommodate and listen to your complaint once more.

Thank you so much for reviewing and commenting on such a glaring mistake on my part, I will strive to correct such errors in my writing for any future stories and chapters.

With all that said and done, here's chapter 5. Hope you all enjoy it and please don't forget to leave reviews.

—

It was a perfect morning. The sun streamed in through the slightly drawn curtains, casting warm golden light at the perfect angle to gently illuminate the room. The sky outside was a pristine blue, the air crisp and fresh, a coolness that hinted at the start of a new day. It was the kind of morning that invited the world to sleep in, a luxurious stretch of time that anyone in the world would likely kill for.

This was the bliss Naruto found himself in, cocooned in warmth and comfort. Every shift of his body, every sigh of contentment, was a welcome indulgence. If he were to die right then and there, in that moment, there was no question. He would die happy, happy as happy can be. He couldn't think of a better way to go.

Of course, fate had other plans.

'Not again…' Naruto groaned silently to himself as he tried to shift, aiming for a more comfortable position. Only, his body refused to obey. His limbs were trapped, and no matter how much he wiggled, he couldn't move an inch. His eyes fluttered open in frustration, a sigh escaping his lips. 'I get that I almost died yesterday, but come on! I wanna sleep in too, y'know?!'

As he tried to shift again, his hand brushed over his stomach, and his eyes widened slightly. His suspicions were confirmed—two arms were wrapped around him, tight and secure. One of them was around his waist, and the other was draped across his chest, the sensation of soft skin against his ribs adding a strange kind of pressure. He shifted just enough to turn his head, squinting through the dim light to face his captor.

Freya lay beside him, arms firmly wrapped around his body, sleeping peacefully as she snuggled against him. Her chest rose and fell with each breath, her amethyst eyes hidden behind closed eyelids, soft breaths gently brushing against Naruto's whiskered cheek. She was wearing a simple white pajama set that glowed faintly in the morning light, her slender leg resting across his torso. Her hold on him was possessive, like she was determined to keep him close—so close that nothing could possibly pull him away.

'Although, I guess I understand why she'd be possessive... I did almost die yesterday, not to mention that Metis lady.' He couldn't deny the logic, but it didn't make the situation any less awkward.

"Good morning, Naruto~" Freya's voice floated through the haze of his thoughts, pulling him back into the present. She smiled softly, still feeling the warmth of sleep in her eyes as she opened them, her gaze meeting him with gentle affection. Without hesitation, she tightened her grip on him, her embrace strong and unyielding.

Naruto blinked, momentarily stunned by the warmth of her presence. It took a moment for his addled brain to return. When he came back to his senses, he deadpanned at his goddess. "Is this going to keep happening, or...?"

Freya's playful giggle sounded in his ear, soft and teasing. "Fufufu, no good morning back?" she teased with a smile. "And yes, this is going to keep happening. Nothing you say or do will change my mind."

Naruto let out a long, exaggerated sigh, his cheeks puffing out in an adorably deadpan pout. His whiskers, usually resting against his skin in their usual place, poked out in an even more exaggerated fashion. An involuntary squeal of delight reverberated in Freya's chest thanks to the sight, silently thanking her blessings once again for her adorable Odr.

Don't know how a goddess could get a blessing, but that's beside the point. Naruto, realizing how ridiculously cute he probably looked, quickly pulled back, hoping to avoid another face-squishing incident. Gods knew how often she'd matted his face into her hands, stretching and squishing his cheeks as if they were playthings. He'd probably had his face stretched more than any other kid in existence.

Freya, sensing his discomfort, reluctantly untangled herself from him, sitting upright and adjusting her sleeves in search of comfort. After a few more lazy movements, she finally rose from the bed, casting a glance over her shoulder at him. "You should start getting ready, Naruto. Don't you remember what we're doing today?"

Naruto's head was still in the clouds, his morning haze lingering like a thick fog. Fluffy clouds and rolling ocean waves were all that occupied his sluggish thoughts. "Ehh…?" he mumbled, completely unprepared for the shift in conversation.

Freya's lips curled into a knowing smile, her tone light and teasing. "It's your official inauguration, silly~. You're finally being introduced to the rest of the familia."

The playful atmosphere of the moment was shattered as clarity hit Naruto like a thunderous blow, his eyes snapping wide open as sudden understanding crashed into his brain. The memory of the upcoming event rushed back with full force.

"AH, THAT'S RIGHT!" he shouted, excited urgency lacing his voice. "I GOTTA GET READY QUICK TO MEET EVERYONE!"

With a speed fueled by desperation, he shot out of bed, fully awake now and scrambling to prepare for the day ahead. His thoughts, though still scrambled, focused on the one thing that truly mattered in that moment: not being late to meet the familia.

"Ohhh man~ I'm so excited! I can't wait to meet everyone! I hope we can be friends, it'd totally suck if we couldn't! Like really suck! Like really, really suck! I wonder if there is anyone else my age? Maybe everyone is nice, maybe they're super strong! Oh man, I just can't wait! YAAHOO~!"

Freya was caught off guard by the fervent excitement in Naruto's voice, her gaze following him as he bounded out of the room with an infectious grin plastered across his face. There was something about the way his eyes lit up at the prospect of forming new bonds, of weaving new connections with others, that stirred something deep within her. She had always suspected that Naruto harbored a quiet loneliness, a quiet ache borne from his isolation and the secrecy she had forced upon him. Yet seeing that glimmer of hope in his eyes now only deepened that feeling, a knot of guilt slowly winding itself in her chest.

But make no mistake—Freya didn't regret her decision, not for a single moment. She had been ruthlessly pragmatic, understanding that concealing Naruto's existence had been a necessary choice, one driven by the need to safeguard both his safety and his growth. The Freya Familia was no place for a child to grow up; it was a harsh, unforgiving world—one that would chew up and spit out anyone not hardened by its cruelty. No child, no matter how powerful, should be subjected to its brutalities. To expose Naruto to that would have been the cruelest betrayal, a tyrannical disregard that Freya could never countenance. She did not allow that to happen.

It had been a sacrifice, yes- an agonizing choice she had made, believing it was the only path that would ensure Naruto's development and eventual happiness.

And yet… even after all she had done, even after justifying her actions to herself again and again, there lingered that small voice of regret. The what-ifs and the maybes crept into her thoughts, swirling in her mind. What if there had been another way? What if there had been another choice, another direction to take to bring him joy without all the isolation? Could she have done more? The doubt gnawed at her, relentless and unyielding.

But the risks! The unimaginable dangers, the countless number of perils, they were too great. Far too great for her to entertain any other course of action. She knew all too well the enemies she had in this world, ruthless goddesses and cunning rivals who would stop at nothing to strip her of what was hers.

Ishtar.

Aphrodite.

Hathor.

Metis.

They were but a handful of the treacherous, power-hungry enemies who circled her like vultures, ever on the lookout for any hint of weakness they could exploit. Each one was a master of manipulation, their schemes as intricate and dangerous as a spider's web, ready to ensnare anyone who dared lower their guard.

If they ever uncovered the depth of Freya's affection for Naruto, they would move with terrifying speed and precision, seeking to exploit him for their own gain. They would not hesitate to manipulate him, twisting his emotions and planting seeds of doubt to turn him against the very person who had tried to protect him. They would weave webs of deceit, feeding him lies and half-truths, poisoning his trust with promises of power or affection. And, should those subtler methods fail, they would not shy away from using force.

Violence would be their last resort, but it would be no less deadly. Freya knew that the moment they recognized Naruto as a threat to their own agendas, they would stop at nothing to remove him from her life. It wouldn't be enough to take him away- no, that would be too kind. They would want him destroyed, rendered powerless, even if it meant his death. The ruthless goddesses who stood against her were not bound by any moral compass, and they would see Naruto's life as nothing more than a pawn in their cruel games.

The thought sent a shiver down Freya's spine. The possibility of death, of losing him in such a brutal and final way, haunted her every waking moment. They would see the blonde child as nothing more than a threat to their own power, and they would go to war to take him from her.

No, she could not- would not- risk that. Not for any fleeting moment of happiness. The stakes were too high.

That was why, despite knowing the loneliness that gnawed at Naruto's heart, Freya had never hesitated. She had isolated him, not out of malice, but because she believed with every fiber of her being that it was the only way to protect him. Not until he was strong enough to defend himself, to stand his ground against the countless adversaries lurking in the shadows. His survival, his strength, they were her first and only priority. There was nothing more important than ensuring that.

And now, now that he had acquired that strength, her goal was complete. No, not complete- it would never truly be complete, the path to greatness was endless. To believe otherwise is both the height of foolishness and the epitome of delusional arrogance.

No, if one were to phrase it properly… It would be that her goal was realized. Yes, that was it, Freya's goal was realized. Everything she had poured into him, every moment of guidance, every ounce of effort, it was all realized.

Though he was only eight years old, the boy now carried within him a power that others would never even dream of attaining in a dozen lifetimes. The love goddess could feel it in the way he moved, the weight of his potential pressing against the world. It was undeniable, this force that radiated from him. It was a power that had been carefully honed and nurtured by her and her children's efforts.

The battle against Goliath had all but sealed the proof of it. Though it had been incredibly close, the reckoning that Naruto delivered to the monster rex after his awakening shattered any apprehension, any shadow of doubt that lingered within her decimated in the face of his victory.

Now, there was no doubt in her mind. He was more than capable of protecting himself, of standing tall against whatever dangers lay ahead. A proud smile tugged at Freya's lips, her heart swelling with something like awe and satisfaction. She couldn't have asked for more.

At last, he was finally ready. Ready to become who he was always meant to be, what he was predestined to become. A force in his own right, one that would leave an indelible mark on the world.

"Miss Freya, I'm ready to go now!" Naruto skipped towards the musing Freya joyfully, his standard black outfit of hoodie, cargos, and boots already worn and his weapons attached. His armor, shattered as it was, held no right to be adorned on his frame. Such an act would not do for first impressions, not at all.

Freya's gaze wandered on Naruto, assessing his outfit and searching for any flaws in his attire. She nodded when she found none.

"Good," She said, extending a hand out for Naruto to grab. "Then come, let us be on our way."

Grabbing her hand with his own, Naruto and Freya strolled out of the room, the soft click of their footsteps echoing in the hallway. Ottar, who had been standing watch just outside, immediately fell in step behind them like a silent shadow. His hands were clasped firmly behind his back, posture rigid, as his sharp eyes scanned the surroundings. Every corner was met with his unwavering scrutiny, ensuring that no threat would dare approach his goddess.

"Ottar," Freya was the first to talk, tilting her head to the side to address Ottar.

"Yes goddess."

"Prepare the familia. Have them gather at the Sessrumnir and wait."

"Of course." Ottar nodded. He bowed to the love goddess. "Before I go, though, is it correct to assume that it's today?"

"Yes, today I will be revealing Naruto to everyone else. Have them prepared and organized there immediately, but don't reveal anything about it."

"Yes goddess."

"Also," Here, Freya's aura rose, a threatening presence surrounded her, causing Naruto and Ottar both to shiver. "Make it absolutely clear to them that I will not accept any form of disapproval or denunciation. If even one of them makes a sound of discontent, the consequences will be dire…"

Violet flames flicker around her skin, her domineering presence crushing Ottar with the weight of a mountain. Her amethyst eyes glowed with power as she glared at her familia's captain, making sure that her words were engraved into him. "Do I make myself clear?"

"Y-y… Yes goddess."

"Good, you may go." With that said, the oppressive atmosphere vanished without a trace, leaving no hint of tension or conflict whatsoever. Ottar vanished soon after, hurrying to his task with a haste he never knew he had.

Naruto, who had been a mere bystander in that play, looked at Freya hesitantly. Noticing this look, the goddess made sure to console him.

"There's nothing to worry about, Naruto." She said, waving her hand dismissively. She squeezed his hand for good measure, further comforting the worried child. "It's just that my familia gets jealous very easily and they tend to have a lot of… over exaggerated reactions when it comes to me. Rest assured, I will personally make sure that they don't do anything to mess with you."

Her words put Naruto at ease, shoulders visibly relaxing. Naruto sighed in relief, happy to hear that nothing would go wrong with his introduction.

"Can we hurry then? I really wanna meet everyone!" In an instant, Naruto's cheer returned in full force, tugging at Freya's hand in an effort to speed their pace. Freya's delighted laugh echoed throughout the hallway as she was dragged by the small boy.

—

Ottar moved with purpose, his heavy steps pounding the floor as he rushed toward the main training grounds where the Familia was hard at work. His pace quickened, driven by a gnawing sense of urgency that clung to him like a weight.

I must get there quickly, he thought, a thin sheen of sweat beading at his brow. His breath came faster, a chill running down his spine that had nothing to do with the cold. Goddess Freya will kill me if I don't!

The thought pushed him forward, a dark shadow of dread looming over him. By the time he reached the entrance, he could almost feel her eyes on him, the pressure of her expectation bearing down on his shoulders. With a grunt of determination, he swung the door open, announcing his arrival to the training grounds with the force of a man with no time to spare.

"Goddess Freya has an announcement to make! All of you are to assemble at the Sessrumnir IMMEDIATELY!" The boom of his roar caused everyone to stumble. Only Hedin, who was reading a book, and Hogni, who was already making his way from training, hadn't reacted.

Hedin shut his book swiftly, rising from his seated position while he adjusted his glasses. His red eyes looked at Ottar with a piercing scrutiny, attempting to decipher the reason why Freya would announce a gathering. When Ottar met his gaze, all the Heldirslief could see was fear and urgency, and immediately he knew the reason.

"Ah, so that's why." Hedin chuckled under his breath as he began walking towards the foyer. "I suppose it was about time Goddess would announce it."

"Yes, she has decided that he is ready."

"Allow this dark one to pose you a question, great captain of ours~" the grandiose voice of Hogni caused the two executives to turn to him. "Has our great secret accomplished his mission?"

Ottar chuckled. "Indeed. He managed to accomplish it, and without any assistance at all."

Hedin sputtered at Ottar's words, coughing violently in order to clear his throat of the saliva he had accidentally ingested. Hogni simply froze, stunned at what he had heard.

"Impossible! There is no way he could have possibly done it alone! If he had assistance from you I would understand, but alone is impossible! Even with his limitless talent and potential, there is no-"

"I was there watching everything, Hedin. He had an incredibly close call, yes, but he prevailed in the end."

The boaz's admission caused the two elves' brains to short circuit. The impossibility, the sheer insanity gracing their ears was far too much for them to comprehend, leaving them both in stunned silence. A half pollum who had overheard their conversation decided to question it.

"Excuse me, Captain Ottar." The half-pollum called out, causing Ottar to turn his gaze towards him. The half pollum's voice also broke Hedin and Hogni out of their shock. Under the weight of the three executives' gazes, the guy nearly wilted, but still he persevered and asked his question. "Is the announcement Goddess Freya is making about this guy you're talking about?"

"Yes, it is." Ottar nodded at him. "Your name is Van, correct?"

"Yes sir."

"There is something you should know then, Van." Ottar turned towards the rest of the Einherjar.

"This goes for all of you as well, so make sure you pay attention and heed my words!" Seeing that he had successfully captured the familia's attention, he continued. "Goddess has expressed to me that she is not accepting any form of reproach. If any of you are to make even the slightest bit of negative motion or sound, you will be heavily punished by our lady herself! Is that clear!"

A chorus of "YES SIR" followed his words. Ottar's shoulders dropped in relief at hearing the confirmations. Turning around, he began to walk to the Sessrumnir, prompting everyone to follow. As they traversed the halls, they were joined by Allen and another cat girl, his sister.

Judging by the bags hanging on their arms, they had just gone and done some shopping with

each other. Joining his fellow executives, Allen paid no mind to his sister joining the others behind him, choosing to question the captain instead.

"What's all this about, captain? How come everyone is gathering together?" Allen questioned, folding his hands behind his head as they walked. It was the first time the sixteen year old had seen the entirety of the Freya Familia herd to a single location like this, so naturally he was curious. He is a cat man, after all, and everyone knows that cats love their curiosity.

"Lady Freya has called for a meeting with the familia."

"Ah? How come? She's never called for everyone before."

"Today is the day of his reveal."

"His reveal… You mean the pipsqueak?"

"Yes. He passed his test against the Goliath without any outside interference, so Goddess has deemed him strong enough to protect himself in the familia."

"Gotch- wait, isn't he a level 1?!"

"Mhm."

"HOW THE FU-"

"Please don't yell, Allen. We're here."

Ottar quickly shut the teenager up as they entered the grand hall of Sessrumnir, not wanting to deal with his loud voice so early in the morning. There was also the fact that he would probably reveal Naruto's existence prematurely, which would no doubt earn him Freya's immense ire. All things said, Ottar probably saved his life. A thankless job, but a necessary one.

'Heh, be grateful, puny boy.'

The hall stretched wide and grand, capable of comfortably holding over two hundred people, its vastness softened by the warm glow of chandeliers hanging above. Tables and chairs were neatly arranged in rows, their polished surfaces reflecting the gentle light, creating a serene yet understated elegance. It was a room built for gatherings, its design inviting conversation and camaraderie—but its true purpose was far from casual.

One by one, the Einherjar and Andrhimnir filed into their seats, settling into the rows behind the long table where the executives would sit. A low hum of conversation filled the air, the once-quiet hall now alive with the sound of eager chatter. Questions floated like whispers, bouncing off the stone walls, as curiosity swirled in the air.

But it wasn't just idle talk. The room itself seemed charged with an electric excitement, as if the very atmosphere hummed with anticipation. The familia's auras, vivid and alive, were drenched in a shared joy, a collective happiness that radiated from them as they awaited their goddess. The thought of seeing her again, hearing her voice, stirred a reverence that could not be hidden. Because today they would once again bask in the allure of Freya's presence, to absorb the elegance that she so naturally exudes. Their hearts quickened at the mere thought of it.

Their clamor died down as the clacking of heels sounded from the stage, growing louder and louder as the seconds dwindled. The door opened up, revealing the beautiful Freya in all her glory, wearing a regal white dress that hugged her curves perfectly. All of the familia swooned at her, unable to help themselves. Hogni, Hedin, and Ottar just nodded at her in respect, very much aware that her love and infatuation was reserved for Naruto alone.

They were perfectly fine with it, being relegated to sons and daughters instead of possible interests. They were just happy that their goddess would finally receive the happiness she had desperately craved for eons. That was their love for Freya, pure and true as it could be. Her happiness meant their happiness, and that was all they would ever want.

Unfortunately, the drooling Allen hadn't reached that stage of maturity.

Freya looked at all of her familia with a smile, eyes half lidded in feigned disinterest as they always were when she was around them. She allowed them to drink in her appearance to prevent any distractions during her announcement.

Soon, when she deemed it long enough, she started clearing her throat to sign for the adventurers to quiet down. When there was no sound emanating from them, she began. "Dearest Familia,"

Her tone was calm, yet undeniably powerful, immediately capturing the full attention of those present. She paused for a moment, letting the silence linger, before continuing with a soft but knowing smile.

"Today marks a significant moment for us. For every single one of you gathered here, this day will be one of change, a day when the course of our Familia shifts. Change is, after all, a natural part of growth. It is through the arrival of new faces that we forge ahead, find new strength, and expand the boundaries of our shared ambition."

Her eyes glistened as she gazed over her Familia, feeling the weight of her words sink in.

"You all know well how precious you are to me. We have weathered storms together, overcome trials, and emerged victorious through the strength of our unity. The loyalty you've shown to me, to each other, has been nothing short of extraordinary. It is because of this strength that I am proud to announce that today, we welcome a new member to our ranks."

She paused for a moment, allowing a sense of mystery to fill the room. Her gaze drifted toward the door behind her, a subtle but deliberate motion.

"Some of you may have already felt the shift in the air, the way that my executives changed their approach and attitude towards the familia and I. This is because they are aware of the reason for my announcement. For whom I am introducing to you all."

Freya's voice held no hesitation, each word spoken with purpose. There was no need to elaborate on his past, for the essence of his presence would speak for itself. The room buzzed with whispered questions and curious glances. Freya's confidence was undeniable, and it carried an unspoken promise of something great.

"He was brought to me just under a month ago, a frigid and hate filled little boy who had only one goal in his mind. He is eight years old, a tiny child separated from his family. He lost his sister in the forest full of monsters outside the walls of Orario, and went on a rampage. Ottar had been out on a walk during that time and came across him, covered in the blood of countless monsters. Consumed in his rage, the child fought Ottar."

Gasps of shock escaped everyone's lips. Everyone knew it was practically suicide to fight Ottar without a falna, even with a falna anyone could tell that Ottar was leagues above them. To hear that someone had the audacity to even try and confront their captain was shocking to them.

"Ottar won, of course, and brought him to me that night. Scrawny he was, but weak he wasn't. When he agreed to receive my falna, we discovered that he has an impossible amount of potential. Almost limitless. It is because of this potential that we decided to keep him a secret, to train him away from prying eyes until he was strong enough to defend himself.

His training resulted in astounding results, and soon he was ready for his test. He took it yesterday and passed with remarkable results. It is because of him passing his test that I've decided that he is ready to join us now, to join our familia in public rather than in secrecy."

The adventurers sitting there were all feeling jealous of this mystery child that Freya was talking about. The fact that one guy, child or not, hogged their goddess's attention all for himself was nigh blasphemous. But their jealousy couldn't override the feeling of wonder to who this boy was, their curiosity getting the best of them. Freya turned towards the door with a fond smile, beckoning for whoever was behind there to make their appearance.

Soon enough, a sudden movement above caught everyone's attention, and with a loud, unmistakable thud, a blonde-haired boy dropped from the ceiling. A chorus of yelps, startled cries, and gasps filled the room as people instinctively leaned back, their eyes wide with disbelief.

Freya, who had been composed moments before, reeled slightly at the unexpected sight. Her gaze kept shifting from the boy to where he had dropped from, her instincts urging her to react in any way possible, yet unable to do anything more than gawk. The boy, with his spiky golden hair and mischievous grin, had somehow managed to get the drop on them.

The pun was totally intended.

'Was he on the ceiling the entire time?! How did he even get there?!' Freya's mind raced as she struggled to process the chaotic turn of events.

Before she could gather her thoughts, she cast a quick glance to her right. There, the figure of the boy, confident and sporting an unmistakable grin, locked eyes with her for a brief moment, only to vanish in a puff of smoke.

Freya's lips curled into an amused smile as she finally realized why there was a playful energy that she had been seeing Naruto with earlier. 'Fufu, so that's why he was super excited earlier.'

Kabuki music drummed through the air, its rhythmic beats filling the space with energy. Above the boy, flower petals began to fall, drifting slowly down like soft, colorful confetti. As the music picked up, he started to dance, his movements fluid and graceful, perfectly synchronized with the rhythm.

"From the North to the South to the East and the West, all who gaze upon me tremble in fear! This body you see is merely a disguise, a trick for the eye to protect your feeble minds! I am the gallant and great, the man whose power eclipses even the celestial beings!"

The young boy hopped on one leg, waving his hands around to create a sense of mystery and allure. The entirety of the Einherjar and the Andrhimnir could only watch in disbelief, unable to comprehend what they were watching. The sheer lunacy of it all was too much.

The executives were a little different.

Allen, newest of them, was laughing his ass off the rails like it was nobody's business. Hogni, ever the one for dramatics, somehow got ahold of a pen and some paper and was rapidly jotting down notes on every detail of Naruto's performance. Hedin, always so serious and composed, broke his composure with a black cloud of depressed embarrassment hanging over him. And Ottar?

Oh man, Ottar was sporting tick marks all over his head. His temple was visibly displaying his straining veins. One could just see the promises of painful demise coursing through his head.

Scary…

"Such a guy like me strikes fear into the hearts of any who dare to listen. I am the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, the Supreme King of all Beings! The one, the only, NARUTO NAMIKAZE WALLENSTEIN!"

Du-dun.

Silence. Silence permeated the room, dead and quiet.

Naruto stood there, one arm stretched up and to his side, the other pointing straight at the audience, palms wide open on both sides. His grin was brightly displayed on his face, visibly happy with the way he inducted his introduction.

"Expect triple the training tomorrow, Naruto."

Everything came crashing down on him. The happily fulfilled look on his face transformed to pure indignation and morbid shock. "WHA- Why the hell do I have to do that, Geezer?!"

"BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

"You just embarrassed yourself in front of the entire familia! Moreover, you embarrassed me! I will help Captain Ottar administer your extra training."

"Old Man Hedin?!"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

"Marvelous work, Naruto! Simply marvelous! The shadows are strong within you, I say! Marvelous, marvelous!"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

"WILL YOU SHUT UP ALREADY?!"

Ottar, Hedin, Hogni, and Naruto all let out a synchronized roar that shook the walls. The sheer force of it sent Allen flying out of his chair, his legs flailing in the air like a cartoon character. He crashed to the floor, still twitching, while the other four stood completely oblivious to his plight.

As the four were set to unleash armageddon on each other, Freya entered the scene, her presence lighting up the room like the first rays of dawn breaking through a storm. Her aura shimmered with a mischievous energy, as if she reveled in the absurdity of the moment, finding more amusement in the chaos than anyone else. Every inch of her seemed to radiate a playful elegance. Her smile, dazzling and effortlessly charming, was the kind that could melt even the coldest of hearts and disarm the most hardened warriors, leaving them powerless in the face of her grace. It was clear that she was happy with the way her executives and future husband were interacting with each other.

"How dare the two of you punish Naruto for his spectacular entrance. I will see the both of you in the chambers shortly after this is over, ok?"

Or not…

Ottar and Hedin could do nothing except pale and tremble. Their fates were sealed now. The finality and menacing tone in her words made that very clear now. With a glum sigh, they nodded and sagged.

Naruto shot them a smug look. 'Serves you right, geezers.'

"Keep that up and you'll be joining them, Naruto."

Eeep!

Feeling as though she got her point across, she turned back to the stunned familia.

"Naruto," she continued, her voice taking on a softer, more inviting tone, as though the earlier conundrum hadn't occurred. "is not like others who have come before him. He is not a mere fleeting interest or temporary crush. No, Naruto is destined for greatness, just as each of you are. His spirit is unlike any I have ever encountered. It is unyielding, filled with an indomitable will that rivals even the mightiest of warriors."

There was a slight pause as Freya's gaze sharpened, her expression growing more serious, yet still radiant.

"What you will come to realize, my dearest Familia, is that Naruto does not simply walk through life—he fights, he endures, and he does so with a heart filled with purpose. He has known hardship and struggle, and yet, he carries through with a fiery passion. He uses the bitterness and rage that his experiences left behind to fuel himself, to always have a reason to keep pushing forward. More than that, he is filled with hope. The kind of hope that can light even the darkest of paths."

Freya's voice softened once more, the warmth in her tone undeniable.

"It is this hope, this unwavering determination, that I believe will elevate all of us, to relieve the strain and tension in our relationships and finally bring us together as a proper familia. Naruto brings more than strength. He brings resilience. He brings a new kind of fire to our Familia, one that cannot be quenched by anything—no force in this world or any other. But more than that…" Her voice dropped to barely a whisper, but her words were more clear than the entirety of her speech before it.

"He will bring us unity. Our bonds will no longer be fickle and thin, reliant on one thing and one thing alone. No, he will bring us a change that will mark the birth of an incredible familia. The likes of which Orario has never seen before!"

She stepped forward slightly, her eyes shining with pride as she looked at her Familia, her voice firm and commanding.

"And so, I ask you, my beloved Familia, to welcome him not just as a new member, but as an ally, a companion, and a friend. Naruto's heart is pure, and his courage is unmatched. In his presence, you will find a spirit that refuses to be broken, and I am certain that, in time, you will come to admire him as much as I do."

She glanced back towards Naruto, who had massive pride filling his eyes, his ocean eyes staring brightly at her violet pair. With a small nod, she gestured for him to step forward. "Naruto, you are now a part of this Familia. Know that you are not alone in this journey. Together, we will face challenges, but together, we will emerge stronger than ever." Turning back to the Familia, Freya's voice grew warm and inviting.

"I see before me a Familia not only filled with power, but with a future brighter than the stars themselves! And today, I am confident that Naruto will become an integral part of that future. You will fight together, laugh together, and grow together as a family. That is the essence of what we are—a Familia bound by more than just strength or devotion, but by the bonds we forge."

Her gaze swept across the room once more, pausing on each individual as if to imprint her message upon them all.

"Now, my dear Familia, I ask that you extend your hands, your hearts, and your trust to Naruto. Accept him as one of your own, for in doing so, you welcome not only a new member but a new chapter in our story."

Her smile returned, radiant and knowing.

"And so, with my full blessing, I present to you Naruto Namikaze Wallenstein. May his presence among us be a beacon of hope, a reminder that no matter the darkness, we can always find our way into the light."

Freya's words hung in the air for a moment before she concluded with a gentle, confident nod. She looked at Naruto, her gaze full of unspoken meaning, kneeling down to come face to face with him.

"Welcome, Naruto. You are home."

Her final words were the tipping point for Naruto, the dam of his emotions finally breaking as he threw himself into Freya's embrace. Unable to hold back any longer, he let his tears fall freely, the weight of everything finally catching up to him. The sight of the normally cold and indifferent Familia, whose hearts were often hardened by jealousy, was an unexpected one. They were all on their feet now, applauding the boy with genuine warmth, their earlier envy muted by the sincerity of Freya's words. The applause was louder, more heartfelt than anyone could have imagined, each clap a form of acknowledgment for his struggles and presence.

Even Allen, who had always been the most fixated on Freya, the most consumed by jealousy, couldn't hide his tears. His usually stoic and unflappable demeanor cracked as the emotion overcame him. He too stood, his face flushed and eyes pouring endless rivers of tears, completely unable to contain the swelling feeling inside. It wasn't envy that stirred him now, but something deeper– recognition that the words Freya had spoken were not just for Naruto, but for them all. They had all been touched, and in that moment, they shared in his vulnerability. The Familia, hardened by time and rivalry, stood united in the beauty of the moment, their hearts open and unguarded.

As time passed, the sound of clapping and sniffling died down. Naruto managed to regain his composure during that time, retracting himself from Freya's arms with only small hiccups to accompany him. His puffy eyes were bright in determination and resolve, already thinking of his path to strength and power. With the opportunity lying in front of her, Freya turned back to the familia and continued her speech.

"There is also something else I want to announce! In light of Naruto defeating the Goliath and setting the new record for the quickest to ascend to level 2, I have decided that a celebration is a must! Everyone is to prepare to depart at nightfall, use this time to get to know Naruto and finish any business you have today."

Wait for it…

"WHAAAAAAAT?!" Everyone in the hall screamed at the top of their lungs.

There it is.

"HE'S ALREADY LEVEL 2?!"

"DIDN'T GODDESS SAY HE JOINED UNDER A MONTH AGO?! HOW THE HELL DID HE LEVEL UP SO QUICKLY?!"

"HE KILLED THE FREAKING GOLIATH! CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT?!"

The shouting and screaming of the members were completely understandable, of course. The shock of hearing that a monster rex had been slain was enough to rattle anyone's nerves. It was a creature that no one—no one—below level 4 could even dream of defeating, and even among those at the 4th level, it was a rare, almost mythical feat to hear of an adventurer soloing such a beast. It was the kind of tale that belonged to legends, stories told around campfires, exaggerated for effect. So to hear that this was Naruto's test? That he had faced the monster rex alone? It defied all logic, all understanding of the limits of mortality.

The air in the room was thick with disbelief. Some stared with mouths agape, others stood frozen, unable to form a coherent thought. But amidst the shock, something else began to take root. It started as a mere flicker—like a spark catching a dry patch of grass—but it quickly grew.

The fire of respect spread, faster than anyone could've predicted. It wasn't just admiration for what Naruto had accomplished; it was reverence for the sheer audacity of it. How? How could a child do something so impossible, so outlandish? It was as though the boundaries of what they thought was possible were shattered before their eyes. The respect for his strength and determination blossomed, and though it was hard to admit, they could no longer view him as just an outsider or a newcomer. No, he had earned his place among them, perhaps in a way none of them could truly comprehend.

Despite their bewilderment, there was no doubt in the hearts of the Familia. Not one of them questioned the words of their goddess. Her voice was the final truth, a law written into their very souls. If Freya said it had happened, then it had happened, and that was all there was to it. There was no room for skepticism, no space for doubt. To challenge her words would be to challenge the very foundation of their loyalty and love for her. The Familia's faith in Freya was unwavering, absolute. It was a devotion forged in unshakable belief. And Freya, with her radiant smile, had confirmed what they all could scarcely believe.

The four executives were already on the platform, surrounding Naruto with a kind of quiet pride.

They congratulated him, offering him their respect without hesitation. There was no surprise in their eyes, no shock. Naruto's rise was swift, but they had long known of his potential, of the kind of person he was. Ottar's expression was no longer as stoic as it normally was, approval marring his face and pride emanating in his gaze. Hedin's cool demeanor softened as he offered the boy a rare compliment. Hogni gave him a firm clap on the back, his boisterous voice booming with admiration. They were all unsurprised by his quick ascension. This boy, who had faced impossible odds, had always been destined for greatness. It was merely a matter of time before he proved it in a way that left everyone speechless.

Except for Allen.

Allen, who had been obsessively focused on Freya since his first day in the Familia, was now completely fixated on Naruto. He grabbed the boy by the shoulders, shaking him with a wild intensity, demanding to know the secret to his strength. How could someone like Naruto, someone still so new to the Familia, achieve such power in such a short time? Could he achieve such growth? Would he be able to enrapture the goddess he loves the same way Naruto had? Allen was relentless, pressing the boy for answers, desperate to learn whatever tricks he could. There was no subtlety in his approach; his desire was absolutely palpable.

Unfortunately for him, his behavior earned him a swift and oh-so-gentle look from Freya herself. She was too composed to publicly scold him in front of the Familia, but a pointed glance and a few quiet words were all it took to send him stumbling backwards. His fate was clear to the cat-man the moment his back hit the floor. Allen was unceremoniously slated to join Ottar and Hedin in the chamber.

The Familia members, still buzzing from the shock of the announcement, couldn't help but chuckle amongst themselves at Allen's expense, their attention slowly shifting back to the boy who had single handedly altered the course of their day. Meanwhile, Naruto stood there, overwhelmed yet proud, still trying to process the gravity of his situation. He had done something that no one here had thought possible—and now, he was being treated as one of their own.

It was liberating for the eight year old. Liberating in ways he couldn't even describe.

—

"Man, that was awesome! I can't believe everyone was so nice!" With the massive gathering over, Naruto walked side by side with Hogni, heading back towards Folkvangr. They had just finished turning in the updated status sheet to the guild, where he was swiftly marked as the new record holder for the quickest level up of just three weeks, and dropping off his broken armor to Anad for repair. He was wearing his backup outfit that he had in his room, much lesser in quality but still good enough for him to wear.

'Old Man Anad was suuuuuper pissed though. I seriously thought he was gonna smash my head in…'

Hogni, the only executive not being subjected to Freya's special treatment in the chamber, nodded joyfully, happy to not be subjected to his goddess' wrath. After all, any form of "treatment" in the chamber was bound to leave deformities on his beautiful face, something he never wished to experience. "Indeed, my fellow dweller of the shadows. Your inauguration was a most splendid performance, such elements of dramatics and theatrics brought tears to my eyes~!"

Naruto chuckled at the dark elf's dramatic way of speaking, finding it funny. "Hehe, ya for sure! I totally didn't expect Miss Freya to be so nice about it, y'know? She's definitely the best goddess in Oreo!"

"Orario."

"That's what I said." Naruto's foxy expression appeared again as he tilted his head to the side, staring at Hogni with confusion.

Hogni let out an amused sigh. "No, my dear friend, you said Oreo." He patted Naruto's shoulders supportively, much to Naruto's continued confusion. "You needn't fear, my boy~ Though you are challenged in the ways of the mind, your power more than makes up for it!"

"Did you just call me dumb? You definitely just called me dumb, didn't you?"

"It's just your imagination."

"You're literally asking for a beatdown, y'know?!"

"Lord Hogni!" A slightly scratchy voice prevented further chaos between the two, Naruto looking ready to pounce the level 5 dark elf. A small man jogged up to them, sweaty from training. Blinking, Naruto discovered that they were already at Folkvangr.

'How did I not notice that?'

"It's good to see you again, sir."

"Uh- yes, yes, it is- uh- it's quite a pleasant sight to see you again as well, though it has only been a few hours…"

The stuttering of Hogni made no sense to Naruto, who had always seen him speak with confidence and theatrics, but to Van it was normal. After all, Hogni is a huge coward, especially when he is in battle. Sure, if he had seen Van make his way and actually had time to prepare himself, he would have spoken in a much more confident manner. But take him by surprise and he'll crumble like a building with a weak foundation.

"Haha, yes it hasn't been that long, but it's still good to see you. And my name is Van in case you had forgotten again." Van's friendly demeanor when he said those words really knocked Hogni out, the poor guy looked almost ready to cry.

Naruto, seeing how seemingly nice Van was, and how much he looked to be his own age, took the opportunity to make a new friend.

"Yo!" He lifted his hand up with a grin. "I'm Naruto, it's nice to meet you."

Van eyed the blonde for a second before smiling at him. "I know. You were the one Goddess Freya introduced to everyone right?"

"That's right! I was super nervous, but everyone seemed super nice, y'know? Miss Freya said that you guys were always super nosy and lovey-dovey with her or somethin', so I thought you'd be super mad at me and I wouldn't be able to make friends! I'm glad I was wrong, like really glad."

"Mhm, I'm sure you are."

As the conversation continued, an uneasy silence began to settle over them, gradually becoming suffocating. The cheerful exchange between Naruto and Van started to feel wrong, like something was lurking just beneath the surface, waiting to erupt. The air thickened with an oppressive tension, a miasma of hostility that practically crackled around them. It was so palpable, it felt like it could reach out and physically strangle anyone nearby. The sweetness of

Naruto's innocent chatter stood in stark contrast to the building storm around them. Though he continued to speak with his usual carefree demeanor, his sharp instincts were quick to pick up on the subtle shift in the atmosphere. Something wasn't right, and it gnawed at the back of his mind.

Through it all, Van remained standing, his smile still plastered across his face, but there was something hollow about it. At first, Naruto didn't notice—he was too caught up in his own enthusiasm. But as the minutes passed, the cracks began to show. Van's smile, once relaxed, was growing tighter, more strained. The façade that had been carefully crafted to mask whatever simmering resentment lay beneath was crumbling before Naruto's eyes.

The boy's intuition told him that something had shifted, and it wasn't just the air around them. The change was more profound, a subtle but unmistakable danger lingering in Van's every gesture, every forced laugh. The happy atmosphere was slipping away, replaced by something far darker.

Naruto's instincts flared, and he knew it was time to act. "Are... you ok, Van?" he asked, the words slipping out with a tentative uncertainty that betrayed his usual confidence. His bright blue eyes narrowed slightly, focusing on the half-pollum man. His mind was alert now, a faint edge of caution creeping in as he instinctively put up his emotional walls. He could feel the tension escalating, and he wasn't about to let it spiral out of control. "You seem kinda mad…"

Van chuckled, but there was no warmth in it, only a sharp, malicious edge to the sound. His eyes gleamed with something dark, a deep well of hatred that bubbled to the surface like poison spilling from an open wound. His smile didn't reach his eyes anymore—those eyes were cold, bitter, and burning with unspoken resentment.

"It's nothing," he said, his voice laced with a forced casualness. "I was just thinking about something interesting."

Naruto's gaze remained steady, but his mind was already working overtime, suspicious of the subtle malice dripping from Van's every word. "Hm?"

The smile on Van's face twisted into something darker, more dangerous. "How about we have a spar, you and I? I'm a level 3, so I'll make sure to go easy on you," he suggested, the words like a snake slithering from his lips, coated in venom. A cold shiver ran down Naruto's spine, every instinct in him screaming that this was no ordinary offer. A spar? The words themselves might seem innocent enough to someone unfamiliar with the undercurrents of animosity running between them, but Naruto knew better. The malice that oozed from Van was unmistakable, as if he were daring Naruto to take the challenge, to step into the storm that was brewing. It wasn't just about a spar—it was a challenge, one where the odds were far from even, and the stakes felt dangerously high.

Naruto's suspicions flared, his heart racing for a moment. "Just a spar?" he repeated, his tone now sharper, more cautious, as doubt clouded his thoughts. The hatred that radiated off Van was enough to make him second-guess everything about this situation. Why had Van suggested it now? What had changed? The tension that had been festering beneath the surface was now so thick, he could almost taste it in the air.

"Just a spar. It'll just be hand to hand, nothing more. I want to see the so-called prodigy that beloved Goddess Freya was fawning over."

Realization struck Naruto like a thunderbolt. 'There is no way…'

"Well? How about it?"

It was easy to see what the half breed was going for, he was practically screaming it to the blonde. Still, even with knowing the dangers, Naruto decided to accept. Why? It's simple.

"Sure, I'll take you on. Lead the way."

It's because Van was weaker than him. If not by stats, then by ability and skills.

Naruto's stats, when he had been level 1, had reached the 2000 mark, easily placing him above most middle class level 2's. With the 20% boost that comes with leveling up, his true strength in stats laid around the beginner to middle classes of level 3's. No magic or skills needed to assist him.

As they walked through the training ground, the tension around them thickened. The Einherjar, who had been training again, stopped in order to watch the two. Everyone was curious about the newbie's powers, and so wouldn't do anything to interfere with the spar.

Once they were at the center of the grounds, Van turned around.

"This should be good enough." He said, bringing his arm up and clenching his fist. "So let's begin."

Naruto barely had any time to prepare as Van dashed towards him. He ducked under a fast jab and retaliated with his own, smacking the bluenette's head back. Van growled, angry at receiving the first blow of the spar and launched a punch at Naruto again, who redirected it with a push of his hand. Naruto jumped back to avoid another punch sent his way.

"Well now, isn't it rude to not wait for me to get ready before sparring?" Naruto asked, glaring at the half-pallum half heartedly, as though he weren't worth his time. His mood completely flipped from earlier, now serious and ready to deliver Van's animosity in kind. "Or are you so weak that you can't take a sparring match properly?"

"Bastard…" Van's facade came completely undone, revealing to them his true face filled with anger and jealousy. "I'll show you why you aren't deserving of our Goddess!"

'So I was right' Naruto met Van in a dash, parrying a punch with his right arm before turning counterclockwise to deliver a brutal elbow to his face. He didn't allow Van to recover, performing a jumping roundhouse to the face and sending him crashing to the floor. "You seriously picked a fight with me because you were jealous?"

Van glared at Naruto, disastrous envy blotting his sight of reason. "Of course, damn it!"

He rushed to his feet, punching and kicking at Naruto. Naruto, with his agility, managed to dodge a majority of them, but was still hit from time to time. It mattered little to him, though. He had suffered pain the likes of which this jealous man-child before him would never experience, the blows that landed on the blonde's frame felt more like taps than anything else.

"I have been in the Freya Familia for almost ten years and yet I never got to spend time with Goddess!" Van ranted, ducking under a punch to his head and sending a kick of his own. "To hear that a little brat like you, who hasn't even been in the familia for a month, spent so much time with my beloved goddess, not to mention to gain her most coveted blessing and admiration, makes me feel more infuriated than anything in the world!"

Naruto wordlessly threw a hook punch at Van, who raised his guard to block it. He didn't expect the boy to grab his arm and pull him in, throwing him off balance. With his opponent's side exposed, Naruto launched a devastating blow to the liver, contorting his body to follow through with the punch, adding a tiny bit of magic to his fist just before he connected. He wanted to leave a message to Van, and this was the best way to do it.

A loud bang resulted in the blow, the air behind Van rippling as an effect of the powerful attack. The wind exploded around them, its strength causing the hairs of everyone watching them to be pushed back, all the way to the back of their skulls. By the time the shockwave died down, they looked like a lightning bolt struck them.

Silent awe filled the field as they bore witness to Naruto's strength. To see first hand the prowess the level 2 had, who was easily keeping up with one of their stronger members, caused a wave of admiration to swell within them. Hogni merely huffed in pride, already knowing how the spar would have resulted.

Van didn't share any of their sentiments in the slightest bit.

"Guh…" Spittle and blood wretched from Van's mouth in tandem, his eyes bulging from their sockets. All at once, the strength evaporated from his body, vanishing as if it hadn't even existed. The only thing he could feel within him was a crushing weight, weighing his limbs down with the strength only lead could possess. He hung limply from Naruto's fist, utterly powerless, his muscles refusing to obey even the smallest command. The humiliation he felt was the greatest he had ever felt. To lose to a child only a third his age caused his anger to bubble.

But then, like a viper in the night, stalking its complacent and unsuspecting prey, it struck.

PAIN

"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" A screech of pure misery bursted from the vocal cords of Van as he fell to the ground. Pain, unlike anything he had ever felt before, erupted all over his body. His nerves screamed, his mind cried, his veins boiled, and his body convulsed. He had experienced pain before, but this?

All he could feel was pain.

All he could think of was pain.

All he could believe in was pain.

All he could hear was pain

All he could be was pain

Pain. Pain. Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain PAIN PAIN PAIN PAIN PAIN PAIN!

MAKE THE PAIN STOP!

The agonizing seconds dragged on for Van, each passing moment feeling like an eternity of pain. Every second felt like it was tearing him apart, the agony gnawing at him relentlessly, and it seemed as though there was no end in sight. His body tensed with every surge of torment, and the world around him felt like it was closing in. Then slowly, almost imperceptibly, the pain began to recede. It didn't disappear entirely, but it eased just enough to give him a brief moment of reprieve.

His vision, still clouded and fuzzy from the aftershocks of pain, began to clear. With every blink, the world came into sharper focus. As his senses slowly returned, he could make out the shape of a pair of black combat boots standing in front of him, perfectly still. They were positioned just within his line of sight, solid and unyielding. His eyes strained to focus, but his body still felt sluggish, too overwhelmed to process much more.

"Oi," A soft voice spoke. Who was it? Why did it sound familiar…? Oh ya, it was the voice of his opponent, who he had so foolishly tried to humiliate in his rage of jealousy. "Look at me."

With stiff, jerky movements, Van summoned what little strength remained, forcing his head to lift. Every muscle in his neck screamed in protest, trembling under the strain, but he fought against the weight dragging him down. Slowly, agonizingly, his gaze crawled upward until his eyes locked onto Naruto's face.

His heart completely stopped.

Glaring down at him were wide, crimson eyes, their slit pupils burning with raw, unrestrained fury. A malevolent glow pulsed within them, radiating an almost tangible menace. The whisker-like marks on his cheeks had darkened, more pronounced, etched deep into his skin like battle scars. His lips curled back slightly, revealing a sharp fang protruding from beneath his lip, a silent promise of the beast lurking beneath his flesh. The air around him crackled with an unseen force, thick with something primal and wild, an uncontrollable nature ready to be unleashed. Van felt it coil around him like an invisible predator. Suffocating. Merciless.

Inescapable.

"The next time you try to do something like this, to try and bully me into submission…" Naruto's sinister red eyes began to shift, the crimson bleeding inward, swallowing his pupils until it glowed the same malignant red, leaving only an abyss of pure darkness to surround it. A suffocating chill crawled up Van's spine as he watched, transfixed by the eerie transformation.

Then, Naruto moved, slowly and deliberately leaning closer. Van's breath stilled. The flickering glow of black flames danced at Naruto's shoulders, writhing unnaturally, as though alive. They pulsed with an ominous hunger, radiating a heat that sent waves of dread crashing over Van. Instinct screamed that if even a single ember touched him, he would cease to exist. There would be no pain, no time to react, only oblivion.

His trembling gaze met Naruto's, his eyes wide with terror, but what he found staring back at him was not rage, not fury, but something worse. A calm, unshakable stillness. A stillness that was cold, merciless, and absolute.

For the first time in his life, Van felt true, unrelenting horror.

"I'll kill you."

Around them, the same crushing aura that suffocated Van extended its merciless grip to the rest of the familia. The air itself had turned heavy, thick with an unseen force that pressed down on their chests, stealing breath and will alike. Shivers wracked their bodies, their limbs locked in place as though bound by invisible chains. Whimpers filled the space, a symphony of feeble and broken cries laced with terror, silent as the despair that clung to them. It was the only sound they could muster in the face of such overwhelming dread.

What else could they do?

The very atmosphere pulsed with malice, a silent predator that fed on their misery, coiling around them with an intent as clear as it was unnatural. It felt as though the world itself had bent to Naruto's fury, as though nature had chosen to mirror his wrath, twisting the very fabric of reality to make them suffer. The air crackled with unseen energy, thick with the weight of something far beyond their understanding.

It was not just fear that gripped them now.

It was the undeniable presence of something greater. Something unstoppable.

"That is enough, Naruto." The voice, firm yet familiar, cut through the lingering tension, steady as bedrock. It reached Naruto's ears like a distant echo, grounding his mind and bringing him back from the precipice of unrelenting fury.

He turned his head slightly, gaze drifting over his shoulder. There stood Ottar, towering and unyielding, despite the brutal punishment etched across his flesh. Deep lashes carved angry red streaks into every inch of his upper body, his skin marred by fresh bruises that bloomed like ink stains. His shirt had been reduced to nothing but ragged remnants, torn away by the sheer force of his ordeal, leaving only his lower half untouched, pristine in stark contrast to the wreckage above.

'Miss Freya really doesn't hold back.' Naruto mused silently, a flicker of amusement dancing in his mind as he took in the Warlord's state. The sight, oddly enough, was enough to smother the embers of his wrath, allowing the raging storm within him to settle.

Ottar, his breath slow and measured, watched intently as Naruto's abyssal-black eyes flickered, shadows unraveling as the inverted darkness bled inward, expelling the red in his pupils and transforming his iris's into crimson. The malevolent glow dimmed, and at last, the red, too, began to fade, melting away until only the familiar, piercing blue of his natural gaze remained.

With that final shift, the suffocating aura that had gripped the battlefield unraveled, dispersing like mist under the morning sun. The air, once thick with crushing malice, lightened, no longer a vice around the throats of those who had suffered beneath it. The unseen force that had pressed down on the world withdrew, slinking into the abyss from which it had come.

Naruto exhaled slowly, closing his eyes. The breath, long and measured, carried away the last remnants of his fury, leaving behind only a still calm.

"Sorry about that, old man." Like a switch, Naruto's mood flipped on its head, as though his previous rage had never been there. He laughed sheepishly while rubbing the back of his head.

"I got a little heated towards the end there, I couldn't really help myself."

Ottar shook his head exhaustedly. "I can see that, boy. Your rage was comparable to the night I first saw you."

"Hehehe, my bad…"

"There is nothing for you to apologize for." Ottar walked over to Naruto and clapped his hand on the boy's shoulder. "You stood your ground against someone seeking to belittle you, and easily reduced him to this."

Naruto glanced over at where Ottar was pointing, and his eyes landed on Van. The man who had once been consumed by jealousy and spite now lay in a crumpled heap, his body trembling uncontrollably as feeble, broken sobs escaped his lips. Van, once so full of envy and venom, was now reduced to nothing more than a quivering wreck. From what Naruto could see, it was as if the very fabric of Van's existence had torn apart, leaving him stranded in an ocean of despair too deep to escape from. The abyss had swallowed him whole, and all that remained was a mind drowning in the crushing weight of its own hopelessness.

Van's muttering was incomprehensible, a blur of frantic, disconnected words tumbling out like the fragments of a shattered mind. The ramblings spilled from him in desperate bursts, a man caught in the throes of madness. His voice cracked with each utterance, every sound he made another nail in the coffin of his sanity. There was no logic to his speech. It was just the broken echoes of a man who had lost horribly, his mind and soul completely undone by the very nightmares Naruto created.

Naruto stood there, his expression unreadable. Normally, he would be sympathetic to the man's plight, yet right now his heart remained as solid as stone. There was no sympathy, no pity for the broken figure before him. The boy had been the source of Van's ire, and it was he who subjected the man to his miserable fate. Van had brought this fate upon himself, and Naruto understood that. There was nothing left to feel. The man's misery was his own doing, and as far as Naruto was concerned, he had no reason to care.

"Though you acted out of line towards the end, you made it clear to everyone here that you are not to be messed with." Ottar continued, drawing back Naruto's attention. "You silenced the one wishing to take you away from Goddess Freya, proving yourself more than worthy of your place by her side."

"It's why I didn't interfere with your spar." Hogni stepped up to Naruto with an unusually serious tone. "You had proved to us that you are worthy of our Goddess, but you had yet to prove it to everyone else. When Van proposed the spar to you, it was the perfect opportunity to prove your worthiness to the others."

Hogni's explanation made sense to the 8 year old boy. All the others in the familia only had Freya's words to go by. They hadn't actually seen him in action, so there was no way they could actually believe that he was strong enough to have actually earned her affection.

"But enough about that, my greatest friend born in shadows!" Looks like Hogni's back to his usual self. "We must be off to prepare for your party! To celebrate your triumph over the Goliath and your ascension to level 2!"

With that said, Hogni skipped away towards the entrance. Naruto blinked for a second before he broke into a panic. "Ah! Hey, wait for me Hogni! Don't leave meeeeee~!"

Ottar gazed at the retreating Naruto, his thoughts running rampant inside his head. 'Naruto has grown inconceivably powerful, there is no doubt about that, but his quickness to rage… Is it the corruption of the Kyuubi that was on his status sheet? No, that couldn't possibly be it. That only happens when he is actively using its cloak for too long. He wasn't using the cloak at all during the spar. Besides… That felt more sinister than the aura Naruto gives off when he's in his Kyuubi's cloak.'

Ottar stood off to the side, his mind replaying the events in a slow, methodical loop. The boy's rage still hung in the air, a palpable weight that pressed down on him even now. It wasn't just because it alluded to his power, though that alone could be enough to rattle the confidence of any warrior, it was the feeling it left behind. Something about it had unsettled him in a way that was hard to put into words.

Naruto's rage had been unlike anything Ottar had ever experienced. It wasn't the fire of a warrior's anger or the rage of a vengeful man. No, this was different. The aura that radiated from the boy was inherently wrong, unnatural in every way, shape, and form. There was no light or semblance of righteousness in it, it was just an oppressive force that seemed to distort the air around Naruto. Whenever his true aura manifested itself into the physical world, all life that surrounded it became corrupt with madness and negativity. It was almost alien, as if it didn't belong in this world. A parasitic creature born only to wreak havoc among those unfortunate enough to be caught in its grasp. The way it spread, the way it contaminated every form of life that was within its range, made it seem like it was almost alive. It wasn't just the boy's fury, it was corruption and evil made manifest.

'It would make sense thanks to that new skill he has… Budding Spirit of the Malefic... but how does it have anything to do with that?'

Ottar's brow furrowed as he sank into thought, the question lingering in his mind as he sifted through the possibilities. 'Skills are the abilities that are etched into the soul of the user. Some are unique, but most are similar. Naruto's is clearly unique, so there's no point in trying to find similarities for it in other adventurers. Let's see, the word Malefic itself means to cause harm or destruction through supernatural methods. The skill that Naruto possesses relies completely around negative energy and destruction to enhance his already destructive abilities, so I can see where the malefic part comes into play, but what about the first part? His status sheet says that he is somehow a Demi-Spirit and not completely human, but what does that have to…'

The more he reflected on it, the more realization seeped in, and with it, the panic that grew in correspondence. Finally, he had figured out why Naruto had such an evil aura, why he caused those with weaker wills to break when he unleashed it. It wasn't just something that consumed or possessed Naruto for brief periods of time. It was literally the foundation that made Naruto who he was. Naruto was literally a partial spirit embodying an aspect of literal evil.

Ottar couldn't shake the feeling that this wasn't just an outburst. This was something deeper. Something that had been simmering beneath the surface for far longer than anyone had realized. It was a prelude to the inevitable of what Naruto could become. A chilling thought ran through Ottar's head.

'So it wasn't the Kyuubi that we had to worry about… but Naruto himself?'

For the first time, Ottar hoped he was wrong.

—

It was night time in Orario, and the executives of the Freya familia strolled about in the street. In between them, Freya and Naruto were conversing happily, their menial topics being of no importance yet incredibly intriguing.

"Miss Freya, where are we going?" Naruto asked, walking beside Freya with his hand in hers.

Freya giggled at his innocent question. "You'll see soon enough, dear. One of my familia members actually owns the place we're going to."

"Really?"

"Really."

"That's so cool! Hey, do you think we can get free food? Since they're in your familia and all, can't you just order whoever it is to give us free food?"

"Of cou-"

"You can't, Goddess. That would be morally reprehensible."

Naruto pouted at Ottar. "Don't be a stick in the mud, geezer."

His courage was rewarded with a painful noogie from the said geezer himself, rubbing against his scalp with the force of a man who had far too much experience in dishing out torment. Naruto winced, squirming under the relentless assault, but his protests were drowned out by the laughter of those around him. Their amusement only seemed to fuel the Ottar's enthusiasm, making the attack even more vigorous.

"Oi, oi! Are you trying to rip my hair out or something?!" Naruto yelled, struggling to break free, but his captor showed no mercy.

The sight was enough to send the group into further fits of laughter, Allen and Hogni doubling over while Hedin and Freya shook their heads in entertained exasperation.

Allen, who had been under the assault of Ottar many times before- though not like this- was empathetic with Naruto's torment.. With an exaggerated huff to control himself, he stepped forward and freed the poor boy from the clutches of their captain. There was a giant glowing red mark on his head, much to the group's greater amusement.

"Alright, that's enough. Any longer, and he'll end up with a bald spot," Allen laughed, crossing his arms with a grin.

Naruto, rubbing at his now sore scalp, shot him a grateful look before glaring up at his assailant. "Tch, I'm going to get you for this, old man. Mark my words, I will have my revenge!"

The grin tugging at his lips betrayed his words.

"Well, in any case, it looks like we're here, so you'll both need to stop your quarrel for now." With his rationality shining through yet again, Hedin comes between them to save the day.

The warm glow of lantern light spilled onto the cobblestone streets as Naruto and his unlikely group stepped into the Hostess of Fertility. The wooden door creaked open, revealing a rustic interior, its large tables and sturdy chairs waiting to be filled with the echoes of laughter and celebration. The air carried the faint scent of freshly baked bread and roasted meat, a welcome contrast to the dust and sweat still clinging to Naruto's skin.

"Slow down, boy, don't go making a mess before we've even eaten" Ottar rumbled, a smile tugging at the edges of his usually stern face as Naruto practically bounced inside.

"Come on, old man, we gotta celebrate!" Naruto shot back, his boundless energy no longer affected by the day's ordeal. "I destroyed that pervy monster rex, and I leveled up! I should get, like, ten plates of yummy food! No— twenty!"

Freya chuckled, her purple eyes gleaming with amusement. She had made her way ahead of them, perching herself gracefully on one of the stools near the counter, watching him with a look that was equal parts indulgent and genuinely pleased. "Ten plates?" she mused. "If you can finish them all, I suppose I could even have Ottar pay for it."

Ottar let out a low grunt but said nothing, which Naruto took as silent permission.

Allen, leaning lazily against a support beam with his arms crossed, snorted, his grin still in place.

"Ha! You'd probably explode from the food before you got halfway through, brat."

"You take that back, you outdated puffball! I'll have you know that my stomach is just as strong as my fists!" Naruto declared, puffing out his chest.

"Oh really? From what I heard, your fists did barely any damage to Goliath. You had to use your magic and weapons to kill that thing."

"Why you-"

"You had fought well," Ottar admitted with a smirk, bringing a proud smirk to Naruto and comedic indignation to Allen. "Even if your technique was rough, which ended up nearly killing you, the result speaks for itself. But don't let victory make you complacent."

Now it was Allen's turn to smirk proudly. Naruto pouted. "Geez, why do ya always gotta lecture me?"

Hedin let out a rare, deep chuckle, clapping a hand on Naruto's small shoulder. "Because we expect much from you, Naruto. You are someone this world has never seen, it's only natural we want the best for you. This is only one way we can ensure that."

As Naruto and the executives exchanged cheeky remarks and comebacks, the silhouette of a large woman appeared behind them, only being noticed by the amused Freya.

The towering woman stepped out from the back, her aura nearly as imposing as Freya's. She had wild brown hair tied back, a strong build that suggested she could throw any one of them straight through the wall, and sharp, discerning eyes that immediately landed on the rowdy group.

"It's good to see you again, Mia." Freya said, causing Mia to turn to her.

"Good to see you too, Freya. Hasn't been long, has it? What brings you here?" Mia raised an eyebrow at Freya, causing the woman to jolt lightly. Scary memories came into her mind thanks to that eyebrow. Still, she maintained her composure, if only to keep her "perfect" image of herself in Naruto's mind. Little did she know that there never was a perfect image to begin with.

"We're celebrating my newest child's level up and completion of his test, of course. I figured this was the perfect time to come see the pub you talked about before leaving the familia."

"That makes sense, but since when did you celebrate someone leveling up?"

"Since this one joined my familia." Gesturing to Naruto, who was still playing with her strongest subordinates, Freya's smile became much warmer. It was a smile of joy and content, something Mia had never seen during her time in the familia.

Having been the captain before giving it to Ottar, she had been privy to nearly every strife Freya had been going through. The struggle she endured for centuries, searching for the one person who would love her for who she truly was, the one person who would never be susceptible to her charm power.

A field of flowers appeared in her mind, with a bawling Freya kneeling ahead of her.

The powers that cursed her life.

"Why… W-why can't I…" Her voice was broken.

The powers that twisted her mind.

"I-I just want…" Her voice was shattered.

The powers that contaminated her heart.

"I just want someone…" Her voice was destroyed.

The very powers that fragmented her soul.

"I JUST WANT SOMEONE I CAN LOVE!"

To see her smiling with such genuine happiness for the first time…

"Freya, is he…" Mia didn't finish her sentence, but her unspoken words reached Freya all the same.

Freya nodded happily, giving Mia all the confirmation she needed. The large dwarf woman's eyes crinkled with nothing but content.

The first time she met Freya, she was a broken, sobbing mess, looking almost ready to end her life just to finally be at peace. That flower field was a blessing for the both of them. That day, Freya gained her first true friend. That day, Mia gained someone for her to cherish.

"I see." Mia closed her eyes with a smile. "I'm happy you found your love, Freya. Heaven knows you deserve it."

"Thank you."

A moment of peace came between them, hugging them warmly. Neither wanted to break it, but Mia had some special customers to attend to. Reluctantly, she made her way to the four men chatting with Naruto and made herself known.

Her presence caused them to stiffen up, especially Ottar.

"Now, what do we have here?" Mia Grand mused, her voice like rolling thunder beneath the earth. She crossed her thick arms over her chest, raising a brow. "A bunch of troublemakers invading my tavern?"

Naruto blinked up at her, taking in the sheer size of the woman. She wasn't quite as massive as Goliath, but damn she was close.

Ottar gulped silently. "Captain…"

"I ain't your captain anymore, Ottar. That's you now." Mia winked, causing the boaz to shiver.

Now, after seeing Ottar quake in fear, one would think that Naruto would also be intimidated, nervous out of his boots. They would be wrong.

Without hesitation, he grinned. "Yo, granny! You got any yummy food?!"

Dead silence.

Freya giggled. Allen turned his head to hide a snicker. Hedin sighed. Hogni seemed amused, while Ottar pinched the bridge of his nose in resignation.

'I'll make sure you're buried properly, Naruto.'

Mia's eyes twitched.

"…What did you just call me, brat?"

Naruto, oblivious to his impending doom, nodded enthusiastically. "Granny! You run this place, right? I want twenty plates of yummy food!"

Mia let out a slow exhale, cracking her knuckles. The very air in the room seemed to shift.

"…Heh. I like your guts, kid."

Before Naruto could process what was happening, her massive hand came down, ruffling his hair with all the force of a miniature earthquake.

"Looks like you've got a hell of an appetite," Mia said with a booming laugh. "Alright, sit your scrawny ass down, I'll make you the best damn meal you've ever had!"

Naruto cheered. "Woohoo! Best day ever!"

The rich scent of freshly cooked food quickly filled the air as the small but lively group sat gathered around a large table in the tavern. The flickering lanterns cast a golden glow over the polished wood, their light reflecting off half-filled mugs and steaming plates of food. In the center of it all sat Naruto, his legs swinging excitedly beneath his chair, his face stretched into an impossibly wide grin.

"I swear, it was huge!" Naruto threw his arms out as wide as they could go, nearly knocking over his untouched cup of juice. "Bigger than a house—no, like five houses stacked on top of each other!"

Mia, seated across from him with a smirk, rested an elbow on the table and leaned in. She, like everyone else there, knew all about the Goliath, but hearing Naruto talk so animatedly about it somehow made hearing its details much more entertaining. There were no other customers at the moment, so she could afford to take some time off to chat with her familia.

"That so?" she mused, amusement clear in her tone. "And you didn't piss yourself just looking at it?"

Naruto puffed up his chest, completely ignoring the way Allen snorted into his drink. "Pfft, as if! I wasn't scared at all!"

Ottar, the only one among them who had actually been there, took a slow sip from his tankard.

"It's true. The first thing he did when he saw it was grin."

"That is quite surprising," Hedin added, adjusting his glasses as he studied Naruto. "I would have assumed you would be nervous, not excited to face it… I must admit, I'm impressed. As to how you managed such a feat, do you mind explaining? I have only been told that you killed it, but not how."

Naruto grinned. "I'm glad you asked Mr. Hedin, 'cause it was awesome!" He hopped up on his chair, balancing on his knees as he waved his hands dramatically.

"So there I was, deep in the Dungeon with Ottar. We'd just gone down to the seventeenth floor, right? And then BOOM!" Naruto slammed his hands on the table, startling Hogni, who had been mid-drink. "Outta nowhere, the Goliath jumps right in front of us! It completely destroyed the crystal wall it was in. And I was like 'DAMN, this thing is ugly!'"

"You're one to talk," Allen muttered, smirking behind his drink. Freya whacked him on the back of his head.

Naruto ignored him. "It had these huge arms, right? And it swung at me like this!" He mimicked a slow, exaggerated punch. "I dodged, of course, 'cause I'm fast, and then–"

"Fast?" Ottar finally spoke, his deep voice carrying over the chatter. "You tripped over your own feet. It got you caught in the Goliath's hand."

The table erupted with laughter.

Naruto whipped around, gaping. "O-Oi, quit making up lies about me! I didn't trip over my feet at all! I had a plan that I was doing, and that thing surprised me is all! Believe it!"

"Sure."

"Whose side are you on, old man?!"

Hogni chuckled, shaking his head. "Perhaps there's more truth to the story than you'd like to admit, Little Shadow."

Naruto crossed his arms with a huff before continuing. "Anyway! I got a super cool awakening thanks to that, and after that I absolutely crushed it. I kept making it go boom with my clones and new explosion magic. It was almost dead by the time I stopped. When it got back up, I charged straight at it! It tried to punch me, but I jumped, spun in the air like whoosh!, and then I used my new technique I made right then and there" He held his hand up into the air and formed a Rasengan in his palm. "I slammed this thing right in its ugly face!"

"So that's what it looks like." Hedin muttered, analyzing the ball of magic intensely. "It certainly feels powerful."

"That's one helluva spell you got there, brat." Allen complemented.

Mia raised an eyebrow. "And that was enough to kill it?"

Naruto posed for dramatic effect.

"Yup," he declared, pointing his sharpened nose high into the sky. "It totally got destroyed after I shoved my Rasengan into its stupid face. It was super bright and I made a huge boom with it! It was super cool."

Freya, who had been silently watching with a soft smile, finally spoke. "I saw it all through the crystal I gave to Ottar," she said, her silky voice smooth and full of pride. "And while Naruto may be… exaggerating certain details, the battle was truly magnificent. I couldn't have been more proud of him than that."

Naruto beamed.

Mia leaned back, rubbing her chin. "Huh? So, you really did kill it then." Her gaze softened just a fraction. "Not bad, brat."

"I know, right?" Naruto grinned. "Now, I think that totally deserves at least five more plates of food."

Allen rolled his eyes. "Tch. At this rate, I wouldn't be surprised if you died from overeating instead of being killed by an actual monster.

Naruto waved him off. "Nah, I can eat forever!" He turned to Mia with wide, pleading eyes.

"C'mon granny, please?"

Mia's brow twitched.

"Call me that again and I'll smack you into the wall."

"Eh?"

Everyone laughed at Naruto's confused expression, Freya being the only one who swooned. Ever since Naruto entered her life, her executives had come to realize her true personality wasn't anything like the cold and proud goddess they thought her to be. They had easily accepted it, making Freya much more comfortable to expose her true colors to them without fear of judgement, something she was infinitely grateful for.

That's why when she looked at Naruto's face, she didn't stop herself. His face was too adorable for the goddess, and because she was in possession of the miraculous ability to exercise her incredibly high will power and the remarkable ability to resist even the most tempting of temptation, she pounced on Naruto to play with his puffy cheeks.

As Mia disappeared into the kitchen, the laughter and chatter continued, the atmosphere warm and full of life. Plates stacked higher and higher as the hours passed, every single one belonging to Naruto, who had eaten enough food to put even the mightiest of adventurers to shame. By the time the feast came to an end, he was sprawled across his chair, arms limp at his sides, his stomach so bloated he looked like an overstuffed pillow. He had a dopey smile on his face, content in nature.

The mighty Goliath slayer, Naruto Namikaze Wallenstein, suffered his first defeat in the form of food, turning him into a chibi dumpling with a head as punishment.

Freya, upon seeing him in such a state, had absolutely squealed, clapping her hands together as if she had just discovered the most adorable thing in the world. "Naruto~," she cooed, her eyes practically sparkling as she poked at his chibi form. "You look so soft and squishy right now! Like a tiny, sleepy marshmallow!"

Naruto groaned, barely able to keep his eyes open. "Dun' call me… mama'ow…" he slurred, shifting sluggishly in his seat, too full to even defend himself from Freya's deadly attacks.

Allen, meanwhile, was on the floor wheezing, his usual smirk replaced with full-blown hysterics. He clutched his stomach, his feet kicking in the air as he tried gasping for breath between bouts of laughter. "O-Oh lord! I can't breathe!" he howled. "I can't believe it! You look like you're about to pop!"

"Muuuu…"

"KYAAAA~~"

Hedin, Hogni, and Ottar, on the other hand, had collectively decided to ignore the absurdity unfolding before them. Instead, they engaged in quiet conversation amongst themselves, coolly sipping at their drinks as though nothing out of the ordinary was happening.

This, of course, was entirely for the sake of their own sanities. It had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that acknowledging the scene before them might shatter the stoic, tough-guy image they worked so hard to maintain.

Nope. Not at all.

Not. At. All.

Soon enough, Naruto deflated from his newly acquired ball form, wobbling slightly before landing back on his feet.

"Phew, finally!" he muttered, stretching his tiny arms, only to be nearly tackled by Freya.

"Nooooo!" Freya wailed, clinging to him like he was the last piece of cake in the world. "Why did you have to change back?! You were so cute! My perfect, round little chibi!"

Naruto flailed, his face turning red both from embarrassment and lack of oxygen. "Oi! Let go! I ain't some plush toy!"

Freya sniffled dramatically, her violet eyes shimmering. "But you were the perfect size! A tiny, adorable, huggable chibi! And now you're just… this again."

"THAT HURTS, Y'KNOW?!"

Freya just continued to cry.

Seeing her distress, Naruto sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "Fine! I promise I'll find a way to make a spell or somethin' so I can turn back into a chibi when I want, okay?"

Freya gasped, her eyes practically sparkling. "Really? Really really?"

Naruto nodded. "Mhm. Just stop lookin' at me like I just ate your puppy."

Freya finally let go, looking appeased. Naruto dusted himself off, then spun around to face Ottar with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"I challenge you to a duel, old man!" he declared dramatically, pointing at the massive captain.

Ottar remained stone-faced, crossing his arms. Silence settled over the pub.

And then…

A tumbleweed rolled across the wooden floor.

Naruto's face turned red. "Why the hell is there a tumbleweed inside?!" he yelled, waving his arms in frustration.

Allen let out a loud snicker, slouching against his chair. "Pffft! That was the saddest challenge I've ever seen, brat."

But Naruto wasn't done. With a smug grin, he reached into his pocket, pulling out a small wooden box. With a flick, he revealed a deck of cards.

"Let's play poker!"

Ottar's eyebrow twitched slightly, his eyes flickering to the deck before a smirk tugged at his lips. "Very well, Naruto. But I hope you're prepared to lose everything."

Naruto's grin widened like a fox that had just found an unguarded chicken coop. "Tch! You wish, old man! I'm about to take all your money!"

Before the cards could even be shuffled, Allen practically lunged forward, dragging a chair closer. "Oi, oi, oi! You guys are playin' poker?! Count me in! I'm gonna make a killing off you losers!"

Naruto cackled. "Bring it on! The more, the richer I get!"

Freya, still recovering from her earlier heartbreak, blinked in confusion. "Wait, what? No, Naruto, you shouldn't be—"

THUD!

A massive sack of vali's slammed onto the table with the weight of a small boulder. The sheer impact made the wood groan.

"I'm in too."

Freya's eyes widened. "M-Mia?!"

The burly pub owner smirked, rolling her shoulders as she pulled up a chair. "No way in hell am I lettin' you brats have all the fun. 'Sides, I ain't the type of gal to miss an opportunity to make more money. This'll be easy pickin' for me".

Allen scoffed. "You wish, old hag!"

Before Freya could even process what was happening, the pub doors slammed open.

BANG!

The entire room turned as two figures strode inside.

Hogni and Hedin.

But not as they were before.

No, these two elves were now dressed in immaculate black suits, complete with pocket squares, golden cufflinks, and sleek sunglasses. Hedin adjusted his tie with a sharp motion, while Hogni adjusted his glasses, his suit easily accommodating the space his lithe form provided.

They walked with a presence, like professional high-rollers arriving at an exclusive underground casino.

Each of them carried multiple bags that jingled ominously with coins. Without a word, they placed them down in front of their respective owners with unsettling precision.

Freya's jaw dropped. "When the hell did you two even leave to get their money?! Better yet, when did you have time to get those suits?!"

Hedin smirked, tilting his sunglasses down just enough to meet her shocked stare. "That information is irrelevant."

Hogni nodded, pulling out a silver case and flicking it open, only to reveal perfectly polished poker chips inside. "Let's play."

Freya felt a headache coming on. This was getting ridiculous.

Taking a deep breath, she turned back toward the table—only to freeze.

Naruto, Ottar, and Allen… were now also wearing suits. Perfectly tailored, stylish, and somehow completely matching the aesthetic of the two elves.

Naruto, now looking like a miniature mafia boss, leaned back in his chair, his hands steepled together. "Well, well, well…" he mused, his voice dripping with smug amusement. "Looks like we got ourselves a real game now."

'What the hell is with that accent?! Give me back my cute little Naruto, damn it!'

Ottar calmly adjusted his tie, his expression unreadable but somehow exuding the aura of a seasoned gambler who had seen it all.

Allen, who was already a cocky bastard to begin with, ran a hand through his now-slicked-back hair and grinned. "Hope you brought extra cash, 'cause I ain't leavin' without takin' all of it."

Freya clutched her head. "When?! How?! You were wearing normal clothes literally ten seconds ago!"

Naruto smirked, lowering his sunglasses just enough to flash his signature foxy grin.

"A magician never reveals his secrets, Miss Freya."

Ottar shuffled the cards methodically, his smirk never leaving. "Let's see if your skills can match your confidence."

Freya buried her face in her hands. "This… this wasn't supposed to happen."

The cards were shuffled. The money was stacked.

The game was on.

Naruto cracked his knuckles, practically vibrating in excitement as Ottar dealt the first hand.

Around him, the tension thickened, each player gripping their cards with different levels of confidence, or in some cases, outright arrogance.

Hedin adjusted his glasses, his expression cool and calculated as he took his cards. Hogni remained stoic, flipping a poker chip between his fingers like a seasoned pro.

"This is too easy, " Allen smirked, already leaning back with an air of smug superiority. "Y'all should just hand me your money now and save yourselves the embarrassment."

Mia scoffed, taking a long sip from her tankard. "Cocky little punk. We'll see how long that attitude lasts."

Freya, watching this madness unfold, pinched the bridge of her nose. 'How did it come to this?'

Meanwhile, Naruto's grin only widened. He peeked at his hand—two kings. Not bad.

"Alright, let's get this show on the road," he said, tossing in a handful of vali's. "I raise."

Ottar, ever composed, pushed in his own bet without a word.

Hedin adjusted his tie. "Call."

Hogni followed suit with a small nod.

Allen, still grinning like a loon, leaned forward. "Heh. I raise even higher." He shoved a stack of coins into the pot.

Naruto's eyes gleamed. "Ohhh? Big spender, huh?"

"What can I say? I got a feelin'."

Mia rolled her eyes and matched the bet.

The first round of bets was set, and Ottar burned a card before dealing the flop.

Ace of Spades. Ten of Hearts. King of Diamonds.

Naruto barely resisted the urge to fist pump, elation vibrantly coursing through him. 'Three of a kind, baby! Believe it!'

Allen whistled. "Oho~! Someone's about to cry."

The betting resumed. Naruto, as fearless as had always been, threw more coins into the pot. "I'm all in!"

"Oh-ho, really now?" Allen raised an eyebrow.

Naruto leaned forward, steepling his fingers. He stared Allen dead in the eyes, not deigning to verbally respond.

Allen narrowed his eyes, studying the kid. "Tch. You're bluffin'."

"Am I?" Naruto smirked.

Freya, watching from the sidelines, felt like she was witnessing the downfall of civilization. "This is insane."

Hedin calmly pushed his chips forward. "Call."

Hogni followed.

Ottar nodded and matched the bet.

Mia chuckled darkly, shoving her own coins in. "Might as well."

All eyes turned to Allen. He hesitated, then sneered. "Alright, fine. I call."

The turn card was placed.

Queen of Spades.

Naruto's smirk deepened. This was perfect. If the river card was a Jack, he'd have a straight– an unbeatable hand!

Allen leaned forward, eyes sharp. "Time to see who's bluffin'."

Ottar burned another card before flipping the river.

Jack of Clubs.

Naruto nearly exploded on the spot. 'STRAIGHT! I WIN!'

Keeping his cool (barely), he looked around the table. Everyone was watching each other, calculating their next move.

Hedin remained unreadable, his fingers tapping against his temple.

Hogni exhaled through his nose, watching the round in interest.

Allen, however, was grinning way too much.

Naruto's eye twitched. 'Wait a minute… what does he have?'

Mia raised a brow. "Well? Any last bets?"

Naruto, not wanting to give anything away, placed his hands under his chin. "I'll let y'all suffer first. Show 'em."

Allen cackled. "Hah! I knew it! Check this out!"

With a dramatic flick, he slammed his cards down.

Ace of Hearts. Ace of Clubs.

"A full house, baby!" Allen roared, kicking back in his chair. "Suck it, bozos!"

Naruto blinked. Then slowly, deliberately, he placed his own cards down.

"Ohhh, that's cute," he said, voice dripping with amusement. "Too bad I got a straight!"

The table went silent.

Allen's face froze. His eye twitched. "You little—"

Hedin let out a small chuckle. "Impressive."

Hogni nodded approvingly.

Mia let out a booming laugh, slapping the table. "Damn, brat's got luck!"

Ottar gave a small, knowing smirk.

Naruto, basking in his victory, reached forward and dragged the massive pile of vali's toward himself. "Ahhh~ sweet, sweet winnings. You love to see it."

Allen slammed his fist down. "TCH! Damn it, let's go again!"

Freya, still struggling to understand how they all ended up here, sighed deeply. "I can't believe this…"

Naruto flashed his signature foxy grin. "Believe it, Miss Freya."

Freya's brain finally picked up on Mia's words, and her eyes widened. She swerved her head to Naruto, who was grinning cheekily. "Wait, is this why you–"

"Shhhhhh, don't ruin this for me."

—

Hours passed in the pub, and the game had just concluded. It was midnight outside, and the only light in their district being the very lights that were on in the Hostess. And while most of the time light in a dark place was a sign of good, this time it was not.

The pub had become a graveyard of broken spirits and empty pockets.

The once-mighty warriors of the Freya Familia sat in complete silence, their expressions ranging from utter shock to pure despair.

And at the center of it all, perched triumphantly atop his chair, legs swinging back and forth like a king surveying his kingdom, was Naruto, the new, undisputed Poker Champion of the Freya Familia.

Before him lay a mountain of vali's, golden coins stacked so high they nearly toppled. The winnings weren't just money. There were enchanted rings, rare gemstones, expensive-looking weapons, and even an ancient-looking pocket watch that Hogni had foolishly thrown into the betting pool.

Naruto leaned back, arms behind his head, grinning like a fox that had just raided a henhouse.

"Whew! That was fun, guys! We should totally do this again sometime."

Silence.

Freya, the goddess of beauty, the ruler of one of the strongest familias in Orario, sat nearby, her head in her hands. The sight of her entire top brass getting bankrupted by an eight-year-old hurt her very soul.

Ottar, the strongest of the Freya Familia, the indomitable warrior, the captain of captains, was now nothing more than a broken man. His arms rested on the table, fingers laced together as he stared at his empty coin pouch. Not a single vali remained. The last time someone had seen him this devastated was when he had failed to complete an impossible mission.

Hedin, the tactical genius, the elf who prided himself on intelligence and composure, sat with his suit in disarray, his tie slightly loosened. He had entered this poker game with confidence, believing that his years of wisdom and strategic mind would crush an eight-year-old child.

He was wrong. So completely wrong.

Allen, the cockiest, loudest, most arrogant member of the group, had both hands gripping his head, his face pale as though he had seen the Grim Reaper himself. His lips trembled, his legs bounced under the table, and his pupils were so dilated it looked like he had been traumatized beyond repair.

Mia, the former Freya Familia member, who had been playing more for fun than serious gain, simply sighed as she leaned back in her chair, arms crossed. Even she, one of the most experienced gamblers in Orario, hadn't been spared.

And Hogni? He was waking up from his coma.

Naruto smirked. "Man, you guys look real sad. Almost feel bad for ya."

Allen's head shot up. His eyes were wild, face red with pained rage. "FEEL BAD?! YOU DESTROYED US, YOU DAMN BRAT!"

"It's not my fault you guys are terrible at poker." Naruto shrugged, tossing a coin up and catching it.

Allen twitched violently, slamming his fists on the table. "T-There's gotta be a mistake! There's NO WAY this brat just cleaned us all out!"

Freya, still struggling to understand how things had gotten this bad, slowly turned to Hedin and Hogni. "Did either of you see this coming?"

Hedin, looking about ten years older than when he had entered, exhaled shakily. "No."

Hogni shook his head as well, quivering in sorrow at the loss of his novel money. "Never."

Ottar exhaled, rubbing his temple with his hand. "Naruto… don't you think it would be reasonable to return at least some of the money?" At this point, he was willing to let his desperation do the work for him, even if it resulted in just a scrap of valis.

Naruto froze.

Slowly, he looked at his mountain of wealth, eyes narrowing protectively. His tiny hands gripped the coins like a dragon hoarding its treasure.

"…Return?" he whispered.

Freya lifted her head, finally seeing a chance to recover from this disaster. "Yes. You've had your fun, but you can't keep everything. Give them back their money, Naruto."

Naruto's face twisted in horror. His eyes darted back and forth like a trapped animal.

"No," he whispered.

Freya frowned. "Naruto—"

"MINE."

Silence.

Hogni blinked. Allen clenched his fists. Hedin adjusted his glasses.

Freya took a calming breath, unwilling to squeal at the cute possessiveness Naruto desplayed.

"Naruto. That is too much money for a child."

Naruto's eyes narrowed further. He pulled his bag of vali's closer, hugging it like a stuffed animal.

"…I worked hard for this," he said, voice dead serious.

Allen twitched. "YOU SCAMMED US—"

"Allen. A sore loser is never attractive." Ouch, that stung.

Allen lunged, only for Ottar and Hedin to grab him before he could strangle the child.

Freya sighed. "Naruto—"

"No."

"Naruto."

"NO."

Freya rubbed her forehead. "This isn't up for debate."

"Yes, it IS." Naruto puffed out his cheeks. "I earned this fair and square! You guys just suck at gambling!"

Mia, who had been watching this entire disaster unfold, let out a deep, hearty laugh. "Hah! Gotta say, kid's got a point. None of ya were complaining when you thought you'd rob him blind."

Freya shot her a warning glare, but Mia just chuckled.

Naruto crossed his arms defiantly. "You guys are just mad 'cause an eight-year-old wiped the floor with you."

Allen's vein popped. "THIS. ISN'T. OVER."

Hedin sighed in defeat. "There is no reasoning with him."

Freya groaned, realizing the inevitable. If she forced him to give the money back, he'd just be miserable and find another way to earn it all over again.

"…Fine," she muttered.

Naruto's face lit up like the sun. "Wait, really?! SWEET!" He immediately began stuffing his winnings into his oversized coat, his grin stretching dangerously wide.

Allen looked betrayed. "LADY FREYA?! YOU CAN'T LET HIM GET AWAY WITH THIS!"

Freya sighed. "If he earned it fairly, there's nothing I can do."

Ottar nodded dejectedly. "A win is a win."

Hedin shook his head. "I can't believe this."

"He is… terrifying." Hogni muttered.

Allen looked around the room, desperate for someone to see the injustice happening before his eyes. "AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO THINKS THIS IS INSANE?!"

Naruto hopped off the chair, his pockets jingling with money. "Welp! This was fun, everyone! We should definitely do this again sometime."

"LIKE HELL WE WILL!" Allen screeched.

Naruto waved cheerfully. "I'll see y'all later! I got a mansion to go buy—"

Freya's head snapped up. "What?"

"What?"

"Naruto… What exactly are you planning to do with all that money?" Freya narrowed her eyes with scrutiny.

"Y'know," Naruto shrugged. "Stuff."

Allen twitched violently. "That answer scares me."

Naruto cackled, flipping a coin into the air and catching it with style. "Don't worry about it! Anyway, later, losers!"

And just like that, Naruto bolted out the door, laughing maniacally, leaving behind a room full of ruined adventurers.

Freya let out a long, tired sigh, slumping in her chair.

"...The next time I'm letting Naruto gamble, it's going to be at a casino."

"Please…"

—

And there we have it. That is chapter 5. Hope you guys enjoyed it, please let me know in the reviews. Have a great day! Stay blessed everybody!

Word Count: 18,463