Chapter 43
Ciphering through memories was an experience that closely resembled watching a movie on fastforward. The sights, sounds, and emotions are all there, making it easier for Sothis to piece together events in a manner of minutes rather than hours.
When the part where her ward held the brunette named Edelgard in his arms appeared, she had to slow down the memory just to take in every detail of what was happening. Her eyes, her story, the friendly banter that followed days after, her position, what she would become, the way she looked at him—it all came together.
Sothis would never admit to having history in being a facilitator for love, but she knew a perfect match when she saw one. They were opposites, no doubt about it. However, she was precisely the one her ward needed by his side. Having someone to constantly challenge his ideals while also giving him the support he needed. She had the confidence, the drive, the looks, and the brains. There was no better match than her!
So, seeing that the two were in the midst of having a heart-to-heart and watching her ward potentially throw his future away with his stubbornness, she took the only logical action in that situation.
And it worked!
They had a date and time, and all she had to do was prepare accordingly and make sure her ward didn't do anything to screw this up!
Unfortunately, she had miscalculated Uzumaki Naruto's dense stupidity.
Lying mid-air with her head propped up by her arm, Sothis stared at the scene in her ward's apartment with a silent, dispassionate gaze.
"My obi keeps falling!" Fū exclaimed for the sixth time that hour.
"I've told you a hundred times, you're moving too much!" Tenten stated with exasperated annoyance.
"...No, you cannot put a sword in your obi, kid."
"But what will I do for protection?" Was Byleth's retort to her father's denial.
"Lady Rhea, can you put this pin in for me?" Flayn asked the Archbishop who immediately complied.
"I must say, the fabric of these kimono are of exceptional quality. I'd go as far as to say they are fit for royalty."
"The talent of Hyuga seamstresses are not to be underestimated." Neji said in the wake of Seteth's comment.
Sothis watched on, unblinking and unmoving. Glancing away from the group, she found her ward sitting on the couch. It was as if he could feel her eyes on the side of his head because he immediately turned to her with those orbs that screamed 'innocence'.
"Are you still mad at me?"
At first, Sothis did not deem the question with an answer. She wouldn't exactly say she was 'mad' because doing so would mean she didn't approve of the fact he'd essentially given her offspring and his friends a chance to unwind out of an otherwise stressful environment instead of fostering closer relations with the girl she had all but approved. She wasn't mad, she was just... disappointed.
"...You are a fool. A hopeless, thick-headed fool."
Naruto's shoulders slumped ever so slightly as he sighed, clearly not expecting any other answer.
"Please try not to be too hard on him, Lady Sothis." Her gaze shifted to the brunette sitting next to him, long past caring how the girl could see her—even in this world.
Much like the other females of their group, she was adorned in a kimono, hers red with flaming maroon patterns and a gold obi with black accents. Her hair was pulled up into a bun that had a golden flower hairpiece inserted within, and the blush she wore highlighted her pale skin. The style gave the brunette a mature air, something she wore far better than women her senior.
Then there was her ward, dressed in his typical orange and green with his newly acquired flak jacket. If he didn't have to wear it by law, she'd tear it to pieces right in front of him, rewind, and then do it again just to accentuate her displeasure.
Instead of replying, the Goddess looked away with a huff, ignoring the amused giggle that came from the princess.
"How do you like the kimono?" Naruto asked the brunette, taking her attention away from the floating woman and onto him.
"It's very beautiful. I must thank your friend once more for providing on such short notice. Though I must admit, it feels strange. It is rather restricting, especially in these, geta, you call them?" She lifted her legs to show the wooden slippers, garnering his attention down below.
"You get used to them. Kinda like stilts, I guess."
"Oh, I am not complaining. They are merely a bit difficult to walk in. I'm afraid I may be a bit clammy. Hopefully not enough to trip and embarrass myself."
"I'll be there to catch you if you fall."
"My, what a gentleman."
"Oi, blondie!" Fū appeared in front of the duo, her gaze that of frustration.
"Yes?" Naruto responded, a bit thrown off by the girl's sudden intrusion.
Instead of answering, she turned to Edelgard. Her expression was now that of suspicion as she invaded the brunette's personal space.
"Is, there something I can assist you in?" The Adrestian heir asked, uncomfortable with their close proximity.
Fū continued to keep her silence, her expression growing more intense the more she obversed the heir's face. A thumb suddenly pointed at herself before she proclaimed, "Just so you know, I'm his girl friend. Therefore, he will always like me more than you. Got that?"
Edelgard smiled somewhat patronizingly at the girl's comment. "I will keep that in mind, miss?"
"Fū, and don't forget it! While we're at it, let's get one thing clear. I don't know why, but I don't like you. If I don't like you, Chōmei doesn't either. Piss me off, or hurt my boy friend even once and IYEOW! OWOWOWOOOOOOOW! NEE-SAN! NEE-SAN! MY EAR! MY EAR!"
"She's sorry for bothering you guys." Byleth said plainly before dragging her fellow Jinchuuriki to the other side of the living room. Edelgard didn't exactly thank Byleth for her interference, but she was grateful for it.
"Sorry about that. She was dropped on the head as a kid."
Though the comment from the blonde nearly got a chuckle out of her, she held it in and gave a smile. "You shouldn't say such things about your friends. Though I must admit my curiosity for the term she used to describe your relationship. Does it mean something in this world?"
Naruto opened his mouth to reply, but closed it soon after. He didn't know why, but he felt like there was a disaster waiting around the corner if he explained.
"...It means we're special friends."
Unknowingly, his response made Sothis's frustration grow.
"Special in what way?"
"Just special."
"And the term?"
"I'd rather not say."
"That only makes me more curious."
"Isn't there a phrase about curiosity and cats dying?"
"It is also said that satisfaction brings it back."
"...Sothis, help."
"Undig your own grave, child."
The Kyuubi Festival was a large-scale event meant to commemorate the anniversary of the attack that had destroyed Konoha. It was held mainly by the civilian population in remembrance of the ones they'd lost, but also in respect of the Yandaime's triumph over the greatest catastraphe Konoha had ever faced since Uchiha Madara. While some may have been apprehensive about celebrating a catastrophe that killed many, the event had eventually grown to something much more.
The decorations, stalls, and thousands walking about throughout the entire village was a statement. A statement that the Will of Fire in the people burns bright, and that not even a catastrophe of that magnitude could stoke its flame.
It was a festival that was not to be missed and an experience that all children grew up looking forward to.
And now, Uzumaki Naruto and his entourage were experiencing it.
Lights, colors, and a myriad of voices and smells were prevalent throughout the entire village. Children and adults alike walked about, some laughing, others arguing, and many eating. Stalls were lined up and down nearly every road in the shopping district, merchants selling all manner of wares, food, and souvenirs.
"This is incredible," Edelgard spoke next to Naruto, her gaze darting between the people and the stalls. Most of the Fodlan residents shared her awe, having never attended an event of this magnitude outside of Fodlan.
"If you think this is good, you should see the fireworks."
Naruto's words caught her attention. "What are fireworks?"
The blonde blinked at that before he thought of the best way to explain.
"They're like bombs, only they go off in the sky. They're the only thing I look forward to this time of year."
"How come you never let us see it?" Flayn interjected with a pout.
"Because I prefer spending my time with family than festivals." The blonde answered, unknowingly getting a nod of approval from the Goddess and Edelgard alike. His gaze suddenly shifted to Fū who was currently stuffing her face with yakitori. "Fū, slow down, you're going to choke."
"Blehhhh!" Fū ignored the blonde, her tongue sticking out in an act of rebellion as she continued scarfing down the dish.
"Keep your tongue in your mouth, brat," Jeralt reprimanded, surprising the blonde at how she actually listened despite doing so while abashedly looking away.
"Hey, I want to play that." Nearly everyone looked to where Byleth had pointed in interest.
The stall she had pointed to was a tall device with a bell at the top—a High Striker, if Naruto was correct.
"It says Shinobi aren't allowed to participate." Naruto pointed at the sign standing next to the burly stall owner.
"Then it's a good thing I'M not Shinobi yet!" Fū exclaimed before running towards the stand. Byleth followed suit, and shortly after did everyone else.
"Is this one of those games of strength?" Edelgard asked, looking over the game curiously.
"You hit the bell at the top as hard as you can, and if you manage to ring it, you win a prize." Naruto explained.
The brunette's question was soon answered more thoroughly as Jeralt stepped up and paid the vendor. The vendor gave a wide grin and a nod before stepping aside and giving the Blade Breaker some room. With a motion that looked practiced, Jeralt swung the hammer behind him before bringing it straight down onto the pad. They all watched as the bell shot up towards the bell, and came up just shy of hitting it.
"Oof, not bad for your first time, gramps. I'll give you a small prize for making it that high." The vendor said, though most of the group couldn't help but think his tone was a bit smug.
"Hmmmm, I'd had thought the Blade Breaker capable of surpassing such a meager challenge of strength." Edelgard commented curiously.
"He is. The game's just rigged." Naruto revealed.
Edelgard arched an eyebrow. "Is that not illegal?"
"Not really. Vendors are allowed to make the rules of their own games. If someone doesn't like it, they can always walk away. The vendors are also smart. They allow one to win just to give the illusion that anyone can win. People willingly come to play these games knowing they're most likely throwing away their money just for the small chance that it's their turn and the vendor honors the not-so-spoken agreement."
"That sounds highly unfair..."
"Welcome to Konoha."
Edelgard turned back to the stall, watching as Fū lifted the hammer next before smashing it down. Her feet literally left the ground upon giving it her all, and the hammer hit the pad. Unlike Jeralt, it barely made it halfway. Also unlike Jeralt, Fū was visibly pissed.
"Bullshit! I put everything I had into that!" She yelled at the vendor, who was unfazed by her attitude.
"Snooze you lose, kid. Maybe exercise those twigs more if you want a better chance."
Fū looked about ready to throttle the man, but was thankfully pulled back by Tenten and Flayn.
Byleth stepped up next, and the man's expression visibly changed into that of keen interest.
The bluenette took the hammer without a word and swung in almost the same motion as her father.
The reaction was instant. The bell went straight up and hit the top of the device. A bell sounded, followed by a round of applause.
"Well I'll be, you're the first to win the big one today, Missy." the vendor's earlier smugness was replaced by a wide grin that actually looked genuine as he retrieved the prize. The prize was a giant stuffed Kyuubi with a cute smile. "Here you are, Missy. Hope you enjoy it."
Byleth took the fox into her arms, the thing big enough to hide her entire upper body completely.
"So, uh, you come here alone?" Byleth blinked slowly at the vendor, his face now a shade of pink and a hand behind his neck. Meanwhile, the rest of the group gave the man flat stares.
"...I think it's clear who his targets are." Edelgard commented, watching as the vendor continued trying, and failing, to get Byleth's attention. It was almost funny watching the man's downtrodden face when Byleth simply walked away...scratch that, it was funny.
"Hey, Naruto, let's try this one!" Fū yelled from across the street, waving the blonde over.
The new place the girl had called them over to was an actual stall, this time filled with coins with stuffed animals hanging above. On the counter were rows of crossbows, each divided by nets and ready to fire.
"Shoot the coins for points. Each coin has a point value on it, and the prize goes to the one with the most points." The vendor explained.
"This is new." Naruto said to himself. There were about eight crossbows lined up, which meant most of them would be able to play. The stand also did not have a band on Shinobi, which was a bonus.
Fū immediately paid her fee, which made Jeralt join followed closely by Byleth. Flayn joined to make things even, dragging Seteth along with Tenten and Neji joining in last.
"You want to play?" Naruto asked the Adrestrian heir who blinked.
"I'm sorry, but I do not have any money."
"I'll pay for you." He reassured, pulling out a wallet in the shape of a frog from his pouch.
"No, please. I wouldn't feel comfortable spending your funds. Especially on something so trivial." Edelgard denied, momentarily causing the blonde pause.
"I don't really care about money. Besides, I invited you. I'd feel bad if I made you pay for anything when I'm the one who asked you out."
For some reason, Edelgard gaped momentarily, as if what he said was just that surprising. Eventually, she broke out of it, smiling as if to hide her brief lapse in composure. "Well, if you insist."
She was met with a grin as he went to pay for her entry to the vendor, whose mood immediately soured upon seeing him.
A few seconds later, she joined the rest at the stand, waiting for the go ahead while Naruto and Seiros watched from behind. A bell rang, and crossbows fired.
"This was a nice thing you did, Naruto." The blonde looked up to Seiros, a small smile on her face as she kept her attention forward.
"I wanted her to relax. She seems like she needs it." He said.
"Indeed she does. She is the key to change in our world—for the better. That she is able to hold out as long as she has is a testament to her strength of will."
"Hn." Naruto hummed at that. "And you're sure she's the right person?"
"She is the best we have, and the one with the highest chance of success."
"So there are others?"
Seiros turned to him at his question, giving him a knowing smile.
"You, of course."
Before he could retort, a bell sounded, followed by Tenten's cry of victory.
"Bullshit!" Fū predictably exclaimed despite being second to last. The only reason she wasn't was likely due to the fact Neji didn't care to try. "I want a rematch!"
"Of course. It's your money." Tenten taunted, to which they all agreed (except Neji, but no one said he had a choice). Naruto paid for Edelgard's once more before sitting back to continue spectating.
"Why did you choose Eddy?" Naruto asked. It took a moment for Seiros to answer, but she did.
"Because I am no longer needed. My purpose was to keep humanity from hurting themselves, but you and Mother have shown me how lost I was. A new order is needed. That responsibility is now her's, and it will be her's until the end of her days." She turned to him once more, her expression soft. "You may not like what we must do to change the world, but one day, you will understand."
Naruto did not have a reply for that.
*DING*
"YATAAAA!"
"BULL! SHIT!"
...
"You have been strangely quiet," Edelgard spoke her observation.
The two were walking side by side through the shopping district. The group had spent the past hour trying to win prizes, though to little success. Byleth and Tenten were the only two to win a prize, but the former was only due to the vendor being a sleaze, and the latter because she was a 'dirty cheater', as Fū put it.
"Just thinking." He eventually answered.
"About?"
"What I'm going to do when I become Hokage."
She raised a brow at that. "That is the name of your monarch, is it not?"
He nodded.
"If I want to change the world, I first need to start with my own village...but recently, I've been having doubts. About what makes a good ruler."
"I see." Edelgard hummed, her lips pursing in thought.
"I'd rather not talk about it. Not right now, at least." He said before they could delve into another battle of ideals.
"Very well."
Silence followed after that. They wouldn't say it was uncomfortable, but neither was it relaxed. The sounds of the festival were the only things breaking the silence, along with their group's occasional banter.
It was at this time that Sothis had finally reached her breaking point.
Appearing into the world with a *pop*, she made a beeline for Seiros to whisper something into her ear. The woman then turned to Seteth and said something he couldn't hear. He immediately nodded in understanding before announcing to the group. "I'd like to take Flayn to explore on our own, if that's okay."
"I'd like to join you, if it's not too much trouble." Seiros immediately followed up. Both then turned to Jeralt, giving him a knowing look that neither the blonde nor heir could see.
"I'll keep an eye on the runts, so don't worry." Jeralt said before putting a hand on both greenette's shoulders and leading them away, much to Fū's protest.
Seeing the writing on the wall, Tenten grabbed Neji and pointed in another direction, "And we uh, have to go meet my dad! I hope you understand!"
With that, all three groups went their separate ways, including Sothis who disappeared back into her realm, leaving Naruto and Edelgard alone in the middle of the street.
"What was that about?" Naruto asked, bewildered by how suddenly their friends had vanished.
Edelgard's composed smile hid her own surprise, though she'd knew there was more at play here. "Your guess is as good as mine," she replied smoothly, her eyes flickering with the excitement of the bustling festival around them. "However, I do believe this is an opportunity for us to traverse the festival unrestricted."
Naruto looked at her curiously. "Is there something you want to do?"
"Actually, I'd like to do something you want for a change."
"Me?" Her reply actually caught him off guard.
Edelgard's smile softened as she watched his surprise, a flicker of amusement in her eyes. "So far, you have been accommodating others, putting our interests first. For once, I'd like to have a glimpse into the world of things you truly enjoy."
The busy sounds of the festival faded into the background as Naruto took in Edelgard's words, feeling a warmth bloom in his chest at the sincere interest in her eyes. It was something he wasn't quite used to—someone actually having a keen interest in him or his hobbies. The feeling was foreign, yet he didn't dislike it.
"Did, I say something?" She asked, unsure if her words had upset him.
"No," he reassured, the urge to look away itching at him constantly for some reason. "Well, since you asked, wanna get some Ramen?"
"I would love to." He didn't know why, but her confirmation made the feeling grow.
"Hold out your arm!" Sothis suddenly exclaimed in his head. He didn't understand the purpose, but he did so without question. He was awarded almost immediately after.
"Such a gentleman." Edelgard's arm intertwined with his, and he could suddenly feel her pressing into him. "Shall we go?"
He gave a nod, feeling the feeling within him grow tenfold. "We shall."
Ayame rubbed her eyes twice just to make sure she wasn't hallucinating.
"It's still me, Ayame-chan." Naruto said once again, confirming that there was, in fact, no Genjutsu at play.
Naruto's presence alone might've been enough of a shock nowadays—especially since he became a Shinobi. But the sight of a girl beside him, so calm yet radiant, her arm casually linked with his, was something else entirely.
She wasn't the type of woman Ayame usually saw around Naruto, and her heart did a strange little flip-flop when she realized just how gorgeous the brunette was. Her skin was fair, her hair a shade lighter than her own, and her eyes the color of newly sprouted lavender. Going from her features, she was clearly foreign, yet that only made her more of an interest.
"Hello again, Naruto-kun." Hinata greeted them in Ayama's stead.
"Hi again, Hintata-chan."
The indigo-haired girl smiled warmly at him before turning her attention to the brunette, "And you brought a friend."
"I am Edelgard Von Hresvelg. It is a pleasure to dine at your establishment."
"Edagard, that's a lovely name," Ayame managed to say, her voice steady despite the sudden thrill of excitement swirling in her stomach. "Well, don't just stand there! Come, take a seat, and let's get you two fed!"
They did just that, taking a seat at the center of the restaurant and being mindful of the only other occupant at the end of the counter quietly consuming his Ramen in peace.
"Would you like the usual, Naruto-kun?" Hinata asked.
"Yes, please," Naruto confirmed, and the girl began to get to work on their order...which he would later investigate when and why they taught her the recipe and not him. "Where is the old man?" He asked, not seeing the normal cook anywhere.
"He had to step out, but he'll be back." Ayame retorted before her attention went back to her fellow brunette. "So, Edagard-san, was it? How are you enjoying the festival?"
"It has been absolutely wonderful. Your culture is a joy to take in. There are so many new experiences that I still find myself learning something new."
"Oh, you're not from here, Edagard-san?"
"Correct. It is my first time visiting, actually. I'd rather keep the details of my home close, if that's alright."
"Oh, of course! Shinobi secrets are safe with me!" Upon saying that, she leaned in closer, her grin growing a bit more mischievous. "So, is this the princess you were talking about in your stories, Naruto?"
"No." Ayame nearly face-faulted at how quick and flat his retort was. "You're thinking of Princess Koyuki...who you just reminded me that I forgot to invite. Edelgard is a friend, and I can't exactly claim to have 'rescued' her."
"I beg to differ." Came Edelgard's immediate retort. "I cannot say that I was rescued like the damsels told in fairytales, but what you did for me, what you gave to me that day meant more to me than words can describe. Whether it was your intention or not, I will forever look up to you as the one who saved my life."
A smile lit up Edelgard's features, one so bright and genuine that it was nearly blinding. Naruto found that he could only stare at it for so long before the urge to look away again became too much, and he welcomed the change in his point of view.
Meanwhile, Ayame watched the scene unfold with jittery excitement. As a woman, even she was aware of how complicated it was when it came to a girl's feelings. But the one thing that never lied, no matter how you tried to disguise it, was their eyes. As they say, eyes were the windows to the soul, and none showed it more than a girl in love.
It was exactly what she was seeing right before her very eyes. The way Edagard looked at him, her smile, the way Naruto was unable to hold her gaze—all of it screamed romance!
She's perfect! She was absolutely perfect for their resident ramen gobbler! She would wiggle in joy if it didn't make her look like a fangirling preteen.
The three continued to trade conversations and banter, the topic shifting to anything from Naruto's new promotion to how to properly pronounce Edelgard's name. They only came to a stop upon Hinata placing two steaming bowls onto the counter.
"Thank you, Hinata-san." Naruto thanked, yet his eyes never left the steaming bowl of Miso Ramen.
Edelgard thanked her more formally, yet even she was transfixed by the foreign dish in front of her. Before she could indulge, she saw the blonde put his hands into a prayer motion. Thinking that it was some sort of tradition, she did the same, not wishing to be rude.
Mimicking his 'Itadakimasu' she went to dig in.
That's when she ran into her first dilemma.
Not finding any nearby silverware, she assumed the sticks on the bowl were meant to be used as utensils.
"Ah, I forgot that this is your first time using chopsticks." Naruto said upon noticing the dilemma.
"It is...new." She said with some hesitation.
"There's a technique to it." He said while holding up his own chopsticks. "Place your fingers in the gap between the two pieces and hold them firmly."
Edelgard's eyes focused on his hands intently, and her brow furrowed in concentration as she copied his demonstration. "Now, pinch the bottom piece with your forefinger and thumb. This allows you to move the top piece."
Again, she followed his instructions. She didn't copy it exactly, but she felt it was good enough.
"Now dig in, clamp down, and pull—like this," he demonstrated by dipping the chopsticks into the broth and pulling out what seemed to be strands of dough before bring his mouth forward to consume. The strands called ramen disappeared into his mouth one slurp at a time until his mouth was full with the treat. "Wike dis."
"Do try to not speak with your mouth full." She instinctively reprimanded before going back to her dish.
Taking her chopsticks, she dug into the broth, pulling out a noodle and bringing it to her lips. To her dismay, the ramen slipped from the sticks the moment she attempted to bring her face close. Not one to give up, she tried again, remembering to follow the blonde's instructions step by step before giving it another try.
Another slip, and she could feel her frustration grow. She had done as he'd said, but why wasn't the noodles staying?
"It's a bit tricky at first," Naruto said, taking note of her frustration. Admittedly, it only proved to make her frustration grow. Trying once more, she followed the instructions to the letter. The ramen stayed...only briefly before falling back to the bowl.
"Here, let me help." Before she could retort, Naruto was already behind her, leaning in close as his arm went behind her to maneuver her chopsticks. His calloused hands gently held hers, keeping it steady and causing a completely different issue altogether.
With her hand, he pulled out a noodle and brought it towards her mouth, all the while maintaining his grip on her hand. "Say 'ah'."
Edelgard's lips quivered in embarrassment, not just because of the action, but because of the young ladies on the other side of the counter, plus the Goddess now floating above them, watching with bated breaths.
"I-I-I can feed myself!" She yelled in her embarrassment, snatching her hand away from the blonde in the process and disappointing every female in the vicinity.
"I just wanted to help." Naruto defended.
"I-I am no child! I'll figure it out myself, thank you very much!" With that, she went back to the task at hand, her cheeks flaring as red as the kimono she wore as the noodles once again balanced themselves on her chopsticks. Much to her relief, it did not fall, and she did not have to suffer the embarrassment of retrieving it once more after denying his hand. She placed it into her mouth and slurped up the rest like she'd seen him do.
Her taste buds were met with a plethora of new flavors. It was salty, and the dough was soft, while the flavor was unlike anything she had tasted in Fodlan. It made her immediately want a second helping.
"It's good." She admitted.
"Told you." The blonde retorted with a knowing smile. "It's the food of the Gods."
"If this is how Gods eat, then I can certainly see why many worship in the hope to one day be in their presence." Edelgard replied, her eyes glinting with genuine admiration as she took another slurp of noodles. The two continued eating, with Edelgard growing progressively better at using her chopsticks, albeit with occasional glances toward Naruto for reassurance.
EEventually, they finished, though Edelgard did not participate in drinking the broth like her companion. Slurping dough was prudish enough.
"I must say, you have excellent taste in food, and company." Edelgard commented as they exited the shop. "Where to next?"
"There's a Dango shop not too far away if you want something sweet."
"That would be-"
"You," a voice halted her, gaining both of their attention. From the Ramen stand, another occupant exited, the one who had been silent throughout their stay.
Naruto couldn't say he knew the face. Black hair, onyx eyes, blue shirt, white plants, blue sandals, bandages, about his age—Naruto couldn't say he knew the guy from anywhere in particular, nor had he done anything that would garner another kid's attention.
"How did you become Jonin?"
Naruto blinked at the question, not expecting it, especially in this setting.
"Why do you want to know?"
The boy's gaze grew intense and unwavering, as if seeking an answer he couldn't find on his own. "You're the one from the rumors, the guy who graduated a year early and is already a Jonin. So, how did you do it? Where are you getting your training?"
"...You are quite infamous." Edelgard teased to the blonde in spite of their situation.
"I guess rumors spread. Kinda surprising considering the Chunin Exams were just last week." Naruto said.
"Hey," the ravenette's eyes narrowed, and his voice hardened. "Answer the question."
Naruto looked at Edelgard again before giving the ravenette an answer, "Can we not do this today? I'm trying to spend some time with a friend."
"Sorry, but I'm not interested in getting answers 'later'." Upon saying that, the hands that were once in his pocket came out, and it was clear what the action meant.
"Surely he jests?" Sothis spoke from within, to which both he and Edelgard silently shared her incredulousness.
"...Do you make it a habit of picking fights with Shinobi?" Naruto asked.
"Only when they're frauds. For your sake, you'd better be the real deal."
"Is it normal for those you outrank to question it?" The heir asked.
"Truthfully, I didn't think anyone was that stupid." Naruto responded. Of course, the ravenette heard, and of course, he didn't let it slide.
"SASUKE-KUUUUUN!"
Before things could escalate, two feminine shrieks cut through the tension. A second later, a pink and blonde blur slammed practically appeared behind the ravenette, both in kimono and looking up to Sasuke as if he were Kami himself.
"There you are, Sasuke-kun! I was looking everywhere for you!" The pink-haired one exclaimed.
"You didn't forget, did you? I promised I'd attend the festival with you!" The blonde one said next, which immediately pissed off the pinkette.
"Like hell Sasuke-kun would want to be anywhere around a pig!"
"Excuse me!? Say that again when you do something about that forehead!"
"What did you say, Piggy?!"
"Billboard brow!"
The two went at each other's throats, literally, starting to pull hair and throwing punches, while Sasuke just stood there as if this were normal. Soon, a sigh left his lips, and he turned to leave, but not before giving parting remarks to Naruto. "This is far from over."
"Sasuke-kun? Where are you going, Sasuke-kun!"
"Wait for me, Sasuke-kun!"
Sasuke left with the two following suit, and soon, they were gone, leaving behind two bewildered teens.
*BOOM*
Believe it or not, yet again they were surprised, yet this time it wasn't entirely unwanted.
Turning, they saw the remains of a firework dissipating, the sparks dying out until nothing but a plume of smoke remained.
"Seems the fireworks are about to start," Naruto said.
"Those are the 'sky bombs' you spoke of earlier, no?" She asked, not able to hide the excitement in her voice.
"They are. There's also a great place to watch them, if you want."
"By all means, lead the way."
The blonde did just that.
Unfortunately, he neglected to mention exactly how they would be traveling to their next destination, so she thought it was completely understandable when a girlish 'eep' left her upon being swept off her feet and into his arms. Not even giving her a chance to recover, he was off, running at breakneck speeds as they flew through the air from rooftop to rooftop.
When Naruto had said he knew a spot to see the fireworks, she had been expecting a rooftop. She did not, however, expect him to take her to the top of their monument, specifically on the head he called 'Old Man Hokage'. When their feet finally met ground, she had to continue holding on due to the slope.
From here, she could see the village in its entirety, and she had to admit, it was one of the most fascinating sites she'd ever had the pleasure of seeing.
Naruto grinned, the warm familiarity of his smile easing her still-flushed cheeks. "Told you it'd be worth it. Not many people get to see the village from here."
Edelgard's lavender gaze remained fixed on the sight below. "I can see why you'd hold this place dear. Why you'd want to protect it."
"It's my home. Anyone would want the same thing."
Edelgard glanced at him. "True, but not everyone would fight for it as fiercely as you do... Especially with how you are treated." Naruto turned to her, the surprise in his eyes forcing a laugh out of her. "I am not blind, Naruto. The food vendors, the stall owners, even the people we pass, all seem to hold you in contempt as if you've committed a grave offense."
"It's not that bad." Naruto defended, to which she raised a brow.
"A mother hid their child from the mere sight of you." His silence spoke volumes. "Tell me, is their fear part of the reason you wish to change the world?"
"It's part of the reason, but mostly because I made a promise to do so. It's not until recently that I realized just how desperately this world needed change... You can call me childish if you want."
"I would never belittle you for wishing the world to be better. Some may say my words come off as demeaning, but I only wish for people to be more thorough when chasing their goals."
"...And I think that's one of your best qualities as a person." Naruto didn't know what possessed him to say such a thing, but he did and found the Adrestrian heir's eyes on his; something in her eyes he could not discern.
"A world shaped by ideals is built by those brave enough to envision it differently. Above everything, you and I share that ambition...which is admittedly why I find myself drawn to you."
Naruto could not explain what exactly happened to him at that moment, but for some reason, his breath hitched, and he could feel the intensity of Edelgard's gaze in that moment. He also noticed how close she was—closer than he'd been prepared for.
"Naruto, would you allow me to be a bit forward with you?"
Naruto sat on the question for a while, pondering on its implications and what would follow after. The only reason he was able to even nod was due to Sothis practically screaming 'SAY YES' in his head. He felt her hand come to his, while her gaze grew determined.
"Rule with me."
A feeling of cold water being splashed over him had his thoughts freeze in an instant.
It was simple enough of a statement, yet it carried so much more weight.
"Rule...with you?" He repeated her statement, hoping to find further insight into her thought process.
"Yes, rule with me." She repeated, the strength behind her eyes unwavering. "I truly believe us both destined to change our worlds. With our convictions, our ambitions, we can bring a new dawn, a new age, for our people. When we have achieved our goals, I would want nothing more than to have someone, my equal, remain at my side."
"Wait, you're not making any sense here." Naruto interjected. "What do you mean by 'after'? Are you asking me to leave my world?"
"Ah, I think it would be better if I elaborated a bit." She admitted, her gaze traveling back out to the village below. "That day you saved me did more than just renew my body, it fixed a problem within me—a curse inherited through the cruel machinations of man and Those Who Slither in the Dark. Over the bodies of my siblings, I gained a power I never asked for, which shortened my lifespan considerably. For so long, I knew I would likely not see my 30's, and I had made peace with that. The friends I had, the people I fight for, I would only get to know them for a few more years before they were burying me."
Her hand suddenly tightened, her lavender orbs meeting his once again with the same intensity they held just moments prior.
"Because of both you and Lady Rhea, I shall see many years, even centuries, without growing old. With the blood of Seiros now flowing through my veins, I can ensure peace lasts. Lady Rhea has said the same about you, which I am told is not common in this world."
Naruto's stare became somewhat strained as knowledge he had not been privy to had just been revealed.
"Is that true?" He mentally asked the being in his head.
"Do you even need to ask? My Crest Stone is within you, which means we are bound by blood. You will see far more years than even she." Sothis replied haughtily.
"...And when were you going to tell me that?"
"..."
He took her silence as her admitting she'd forgotten and left it at that.
He thought about the offer more closely now, picking apart each word and gathering the full meaning. Putting it all together, one particular question came up.
"If we did that, wouldn't we have to get married?"
Despite herself, Edelgard couldn't entirely keep the blush off her face. "That, would not be entirely inaccurate. Marriage in most cases such as this is the basis of unity between nations. However, should it come to that, it will not be a marriage born of political necessity. It would be a union between equals. Hopefully, it would be...genuine."
For a long moment, Naruto stared. The heat from before had returned, along with the itchy feeling to not meet her gaze. Nevertheless, he held it, and opened his mouth to speak, but was beaten to the punch.
"I do not expect your answer now. It is just a possibility... One I have hopes you will consider thoroughly."
Naruto didn't know what to say, nor could he even think with all the thoughts and new feelings running about in his head, so he simply nodded. She smiled again, increasing activity in his bloodstream and making him extra aware of her looks for some reason. I was...was...
The first explosions lit the night with red and gold, and Edelgard gasped softly, turning to watch. She didn't move away from him, and Naruto felt her arm press against his like it had during their exploration through the festival. They stood there, shoulder to shoulder, as the sky lit up in colors, a cascade of light dancing over the village below and giving the Adrestrian heir yet another experience she couldn't get back home. The fireworks mirrored their own turbulent emotions, a fierce and beautiful display that both of them struggled to put into words.
Naruto suddenly felt the grip on his on his arm tighten. "Thank you for this night, Naruto. Truly, it is one I shall remember for years to come."
Naruto scratched his cheek, suddenly feeling more self-conscious than he could ever remember. "Y-Yeah, no problem. It's… nice, you know, getting to know you, too."
The night stretched on in comfortable silence between them, with the occasional firework illuminating the monument, the village, and the quiet bond forming between them.
A/N: Nothing much to say here. Next chapter will be out very soon, followed by a short hiatus as I have not been feeling well lately. Think its the flu, and hope it is.
Also, 'It Isn't Easy Becoming Elden Lord in a World of Gods and Dragons' has been cancelled and is being rewritten. Wasn't very successful as I thought it would be and would rather not write something people don't want to read.
As always, thanks for the follows, favs, reviews, and have a DAMN good day.