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Chapter Eight - Recognition and Revelation

The final whistle had blown a while ago, yet he still felt the weight of the match. Naruto felt as if his limbs were covered in iron shackles. His breathing had become steady, but his body was caught in a strange limbo between exhaustion and exhilaration. But this stillness was broken by the sudden cheers from Team V. "Why the hell are they cheering like we were going to lose? We would have advanced no matter what."

Before he could express his annoyance, the inevitable, known as his friends, happened. "Oi, oi, oi. Don't tell me our dear Magician is about to keel over from one game," Karasu's teasing voice cut through him like a knife. His usual cocky smirk plastered on his face as he walked up.

Naruto slowly looked up at Karasu and snorted. "You wish, you dumb crow."

Karasu cackled. "Nah, I know." He reached down and slapped Naruto upside his head. He dodged a sluggish retaliation swing as he laughed. "Not gonna lie, though. That last sprint looked painful, man. I really thought you were gonna faceplant in front of everyone.

"I didn't, though." Naruto glared as he took another sluggish swing. Karasu smirked as he extended his arm and held Naruto's head to keep him away.

"You were damn close," Kiyora added. He had his usual calm demeanor, but his eyes had a noticeable glint. Naruto didn't know if it was satisfaction or if his friend's mean streak was about to show through. "That match was brutal."

"No kidding," Karasu scoffed. He let Naruto go as he stretched his arms behind his head. "I think I actually had fun. And I think we can agree that I'm the Man of the Match."The amusement in his tone made the others look at him strangely.

Naruto snorted. "Thats's new. But I guess your bird brain is making you think the impossible." He and Kiyora laughed as their friend glowered at them.

"Fuck off," Karasu shot back before glancing at Kiyora. "But damn, we really pulled that off, huh?"

Kiyora nodded, crouching down to catch his breath. "I won't lie—there were a few times where I thought they would steal the ball. Team Z wasn't playing like the bottom-tier teams we played before."

Naruto hummed in agreement. He could still feel the adrenaline in his veins. Even now, he could feel the slight boost it gave him to finish out the match. "They weren't," he admitted. Hiori especially. He figured us out fast, and it got me thinking.

Karasu clicked his tongue. "Yeah, yeah, we get it, Naruto. You've got a soccer crush on Hiori."

Naruto gave him a flat look. "Not what I meant, you bastard. What I mean is that I was right about our rankings meaning jack shit. I thought Team Z did so well against the other teams because they were terrible. But no, like us, they play on another level."

Kiyora chuckled softly, rolling his shoulders. "So what? They still couldn't beat us. They pushed us once before we took the match over."

Karasu smirked, pointing a thumb over his shoulder. "Damn right we did. They were playing our game. They're lucky Aryu and Kurona weren't here; it would have ended even worse for them. And let's be honest—our last goal?" He looked at Kiyora with a grin before he spoke with pride. "That was pure art."

Kiyora nodded. "We got to work on the name, though. Phantom Execution just sounds cringe."

Naruto gave a slight smirk at the name. "How about The Assassin and the Hidden Blade then?"

Karasu's grin widened. "Ohhh, that's sick. Yeah, I like that way more. The Assassin and the Hidden Blade is exactly who we are, anyways."

"I'm just happy it worked," Kiyora replied. "It was just a good finish for our plan. Slowing down the temp worked well."

Naruto stood and crossed his arms, an ache in his muscles making itself known. He knew he was going to be sore tomorrow. "You're right. But that plan wouldn't have worked if we weren't in sync. We were lucky to get a teammate like Saramaradar, who could work with us." His gaze flickered between his two friends, his smirk settling into something more genuine. "Good job, guys."

Kiyora nodded in quiet acknowledgement. Karasu had a different idea. He threw his arms around his friends' shoulders and brought them in for a group hug. A dramatic sigh left his lips. "Aww, look at ya, Naruto. Giving compliments and everything. Alice and your mom must be so proud!"

Naruto sighed. "Get off me."

"No. This is a bonding moment."

"You're fat."

Before Karasu could retort, Kiyora escaped his grasp and spoke thoughtfully. "By the way," he glanced at the struggling Naruto, "that was some impressive work shutting down Shidou."

Naruto blinked, caught off guard. "Huh?"

Karasu snorted as he let his friend go. "Don't act all humble now." He leand closer, eyes glinting in amusement. "Sure, it looked like ya were hanging on. Looked like ya were flailing around while trying to leash a rabbit dog…"

Naruto's eye twitched. "Excuse me?"

"Buuut," Karasu continued, unfazed, "you actually did it." His smirk turned into a smile. "Not gonna lie, Naruto. That was one hell of a defensive performance. I didn't think you'd be able to hold him back for an entire match, but you did." Naruto looked at his friend in a new light. What he said sounded genuine… it didn't last long. "But still not as good as my performance."

Kiyora nodded and spoke before his friends tried to kill each other. "You know that us and the others handle defense while you attack, but you completely threw yourself into it. You didn't just man-mark him. You controlled him. Shidou had to play on your terms." Kiyora looked at his friend with genuine praise. "I didn't hink you'd be able to hold him back for the entire half, but you did.

Naruto tilted his head slightly, letting their words sink in. He wouldn't lie; he loved it when someone praised him. But hearing it from Karasu and Kiyora—two players who prided themselves on defense—it meant something to him. It wasn't just the usual praise his fans gave him, as The Magician gave him.

"He was… predictable," Naruto finally said, his voice even. "Ever since the first half, I got this feeling, like I told you earlier. After a while, man-marking became easier. I could cut off his angles and push him into bad positions where I had the advantage."

Karasu whistled. "See, that's what makes it impressive. You adapted. Yer already a pain in the ass on the attack, but if you can defend like that too… Yer gonna be a nightmare."

Naruto rolled his eyes. "You say it like I wasn't one already."

"Oh, ya definitely are," Karasu cackled. "But now yer just gonna piss even more people off than you do already."

Kiyora slightly chuckled before glancing at the massive screen in the distance. "Speaking of pissing people off, we should probably focus before we get in trouble."

The loud hum of the speakers crackled to life. "Attention, all players."

The three of them shared a brief glance before Karasu spoke up. "Guess it's time for our official recognition."

Naruto exhaled sharply, the exhaustion beginning to hit every part of his body. "Let's get this over with."

"The final game in the Fifth Stratum has concluded!"

The announcement was met with a mixture of cheers and silence. On one side of the field, Team V erupted in celebration—arms thrown around shoulders, exhausted players sinking to their knees in relief, and laughter breaking through ragged breaths. Their journey wasn't over.

Naruto didn't know why they were celebrating so hard. No matter the game's outcome, win or lose, they were advancing to the Second Selection. Looking over at Team Z, they stood in stark contrast. There were no cheers of excitement or feelings of relief at advancing. They never moved from where they were at the end of the match. The shock of the game still hadn't left them.

Karasu smirked, glancing at Naruto and Kiyora. "Well, we already knew we were advancing, but I guess to them it still feels good hearing it out loud, huh?"

Naruto merely nodded, eyes locked onto the massive screen above as the results flashed in bold letters.

The screen flickered, shifting to a scoreboard detailing the final standings of the five-team round robin.

Team - Points - Goal Difference

V - 12 - 23 (26 goals)

Z - 9 - 11 (16 goals)

X - 4 - -7 (8 goals)

Y - 3 - -11 (5 goals)

W - 1 - -16 (2 goals)

"Advancing to the Second Selection are Team V, securing first place with twenty-four points, and Team Z, placing second with eleven points!"

The cheers from Team V stopped, replaced by sighs of relief that they could finally rest. A few of the defenders collapsed from the exhaustion they gained after doing their best to help Naruto defend Shidou.

Kiyora watched the scene and thought it was unsightly. Naruto did most of the work. They mostly stood in place and forced Shidou to run around them. "If this is how they react from Naruto doing the defending, they aren't going to last much longer in Blue Lock."

Karasu scoffed at his friend. "You aren't wrong. While they aren't completely useless, they could have been better." He then smirked. "But let's be real, they only made it cause they were on our team."

Naruto shook his head in denial. "Not entirely."

Karasu raised an eyebrow but didn't question him. He guessed that his friend was referring to Saramadara having some use to them.

"Additionally, the three top-scoring strikers from the eliminated teams will advance to the Second Selection."

The screen updated, listing the three players who had done just enough to advance from their teams.

Team X - Otoya Eita - 7 goals

Team Y - Hirragi Reiji - 3 goals

Team W - Nanase Nijiro - 2 goals

Karasu let out a low whistle. "Damn, I knew that Otoya guy was decent when he scored against us. But he must have been hungry to get seven of his team's eight goals."

Kiyora hummed in agreement. "It must have been because of his playstyle. His off-ball movements got by us a few times." He looked over at Naruto with a smirk. "Wasn't it because he got by you, Naruto, that he was able to score?"

Naruto didn't show any physical reaction; he was too tired. Instead, his gaze lingered on Otoya's name. "He's someone to watch. His off-ball movement is something I would love to use to my advantage. Having him would help me make that pass I've been trying to create." In his eyes, Otoya was a player who could become trouble if he was developed the right way.

"With this, the Fifth Stratum's First Selection has concluded. The advancing players will proceed to the next phase of Blue Lock."

Naruto felt a smug grin tug at his lips. "Survival is just the first step. It won't be long before the world acknowledges me."

Karasu let out a loud yawn as he stretched. "Welp. That's our cue to head out. Come on, ya bums. Follow yer Man of the Match to the locker room."

Kiyora nodded before he realized what his friend said. "Naruto… I'm going to kill Karasu."

Naruto exhaled as he rolled his shoulders. "Alright. I'll help you hide his body."

Not liking the glares his friends were giving him, Karasu started walking faster. There was only one person who could save him now.

"Slow down, you bastard. We just want to hurt you a bit," Naruto snarked out. Kiyora nodded as he cracked his knuckles.

Karasu smirked over his shoulder, and it was a smirk neither Naruto or Kiyora liked. "You can try. But I think yer mom might not like to hear that." Without another word, the purple-haired teen started jogging, easily outpacing his teammates. He laughed with satisfaction at seeing the ashen looks his friends had.

Naruto hung his head as he walked. He knew that if his mom were called, he wouldn't live long enough to get back at his friend. Even with that thought, he was happy about the outcome of the First Selection. His battle to be the best was far from over. It was only just beginning.

Silence filled the room as Team V stepped into their locker room. The click of the automatic doors shutting was ignored in favor of drinking water and stretching. This lasted a few minutes before the familiar static of screens flickering to life caught everyone's attention. And then, the ever-mocking voice of Ego Jinpachi filled the room and sucked away the Team's joy.

"Congratulations, Team V." Ego's deadpan tone made it clear. This was not going to be a moment of praise. The screen flickered again to display his ever-present, unreadable expression as he leaned forward to cover the whole screen. "You bottom-feeding strikers have managed to crawl your way through the First Selection. Or… it would be more precise to say four of you crawled your way through. The others just held on for the free ride."

Karasu sighed dramatically as he slumped onto one of the benches. "Here we go again," he muttered.

Ego continued, ignoring the striker's attitude. "But don't get it twisted—this is just the beginning. Compared to the upper strata, you are nothing. While you were fighting like dogs for a chance to advance, the players in the top-ranked stratum have been training non-stop with the best equipment and coaching available."

Naruto gained a glint in his eye as he gave a tired smirk. "So… if we are fighting like dogs and you were watching. Does that make you our Michael Vick?" Kiyora sighed at this while Karasu tried to contain his laugh. "Come on, guys! It's a serious question."

Ego ignored what was said, but Naruto could see the glint of recognition in his eyes. "Moving along. You're behind. And the next selection won't be as forgiving." The screen shifted as it showed data charts. The various charts compared the stats of the different strata in Blue Lock.

The group of three shared a look. They had already agreed that their ranks held no meaning. However, these charts showed information that went against their thoughts. Kiyora frowned at that notion. While he knew he could be wrong, he refused to admit it. "So what's next, then?"

Ego's glasses glinted under the screen's lighting. "There are eleven days between now and the next selection. It is 1:00 PM right now. From now till tomorrow night, you may rest." There were sighs of relief from everyone in the room. They died out after the following sentences. "For the ten days after, you will undergo intense physical training. During this period, you will not be allowed to touch a ball."

A stunned silence filled the room. No one said a word until Karasu moved. He stood up, disbelief flashing across his face. "The hell?! What kind of football training doesn't involved a damn ball?!" His two friends were right along with him in disbelief. Naruto had done this type of training before, but he didn't think he would experience it in Blue Lock.

Ego smirked at the reactions. "The kind of training that turns your frail, second-rate bodies into football weapons. You all are here because you want to compete with the best?" Ego leaned forward as a glint no longer covered his glasses. His gaze was focused and intense. "Your stamina, reflexes, acceleration, balance—everything needs to be refined before you step foot into the next selection." Another image appeared on the screen; it showed a variety of training methods: high-intensity sprinting drills, weight lifting, agility courses, and endurance tests. "If you violate any of these rules or fail to keep up with the training…" The screen zoomed in on Ego's face, now holding a cold glare. "You will be expelled from Blue Lock."

Naruto's eyes narrowed slightly. He had pushed himself in this past match by trying to defend Shidou and use his improving vision. "Well, I guess I will need to use this training to my advantage." Karasu let out a low chuckle as Kiyora sighed. "We'll need to prepare then, guys."

Ego leaned back before speaking one last time. "Rejoince, trash. This is the rare chance you've been given to survive. If you can't handle it, then get lost and lock off. The next selection awaits real strikers." With that said, the screen blinked off, leaving the locker room in silence.

Karasu exhaled, standing up and stretching his arms over his head. "So… One day of reprieve before ten days of hell. Guess I'll take that over sitting around and doing nothing." Looking over, he saw a familiar smirk on Naruto's face. "Yer not actually thinking of bailing on training, are you?"

Naruto's smirk widened as he walked toward the exit to head to Team V's room. "Let's just say… us three are having a different day of reprieve than the others."

Karasu and Kiyora exchanged a glance before following him out. They had long since learned that if they followed Naruto's plans, they most often resulted in something good. And they would take a chance with his plan of reprieve before their training nightmare began.

The Blue Lock facility was quiet—well, as quiet as teens crying as they were ushered to buses could be. Naruto, Karasu, and Kiyora stepped through the exit doors, their Blue Lock-issued tracksuits rustling in the midday breeze. The air outside felt different—crisp, fresh, and full of the freedom they hadn't tasted in weeks.

As the three walked, Karasu let out a long sigh. "Finally! I thought I was gonna start forgetting what a real breeze felt like." He tilted his head back and soaked in the sunlight.

Kiyora gave a rare, relaxed smile. "Yeah, I get what you mean. They may open the roof for our matches, but that still keeps most of the natural elements out."

Ahead of the trio, parked just in front of the row of busses, was a sleek, obsidian-colored limousine. Its tinted windows gleamed in the afternoon light. A suited driver stood beside the car, giving the trio a nod before opening the rear passenger door.

Looking at the car, Karasu narrowed his eyes before having a realization. "Wait a minute… Neither of us has enough Blue Lock points to get a day pass outside. How the hell are we allowed to leave? Why the hell is there a limo?"

Kiyora looked at the limousine before staring at his friends blankly. "Maybe Ego realized how good we are and rewarded us."

"No," Karasu immediately replied.

"Yes."

"No."

"I'm right. Just accept it."

"How about I…" Karasu was cut off before he could finish.

Naruto gave an exasperated sigh. "Shut up, both of you. It was much simpler than that." His smirk made his friends realize he did something that was probably funny but would definitely come back to haunt them. Seeing them waiting for more, he continued. "It was easy to get a pass after I threatened him."

Karasu blinked. "You what?"

Naruto shrugged nonchalantly as he started walking again. "I told him I'd have my mom show up and discuss things with him if we didn't get our day pass. Ego might be fearless to everyone else, but even he's not insane enough to cross Uzumaki Kushina."

Kiyora looked between the limo and Naruto, realization dawning. "You blackmailed the guy who currently has control over our lives in Blue lock with your mom?" Seeing the prideful nod from his friend, he knew exactly how he did it. "You told him your mom was going to beat his ass, didn't you?"

"First off, it wasn't blackmail," Naruto said coolly. "I just made a very persuasive suggestion that he agreed with. Secondly, yes, but not those exact words."

His friends groaned, as they knew their ten days of training would be actual hell for them now. They trudged behind their friend, knowing that their reprieve would result in punishment. As they stepped into the vehicle, they noted that the interior was as luxurious as the outside—white leather seats, cool lighting, and a digital control panel in the center console. While Naruto relaxed in the back seat, Kiyora and Karasu sat on either side seat.

Karasu decided he would use the space of his seat to lay down, but there was still disbelief in his eyes from his friend's actions. "So… I assume we're heading to your place?"

Naruto leaned back against the seat with lidded eyes. "That was the plan."

Hearing the emphasis on 'was,' Kiyora could sense trouble. "What do you mean was?"

Naruto smirked. "It should be obvious, shouldn't it? My mom would have come and got us if we were going to my house. So, who do we know that would get us a limo just because she could?"

Karasu groaned at those words. "I want to say she wouldn't, but she definitely would." He sat up and glared at his friend. "You look too pleased with what's happening, fox boy."

Naruto gave a tired smile. "Not pleased, Karasu. It's just that I've already accepted all of my girlfriend's quirks. Even if one of those quirks is derailing my plans so that I spend time with her." He had spent enough years with Alice to be used to most things she did. This wouldn't be the first time she did this to him and his friends, but it had been so long that it had thrown his two friends off.

As if summoned by his thoughts, an all too familiar voice rang through the car speakers. "Welcome, gentlemen! I hope you're enjoying the ride."

Kiyora groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Of course, she had to make our break about her." He turned to Karasu and glared. "This is karma for you saying you were the MOTM. The universe is trying to rebalance itself."

The said teen responded with his own look of indignation. "How is this my fault?! Without my plans and making sure Naruto's strategy worked, we could have lost." Karasu knew that his friend wouldn't back down, but he refused to either. "A pipsqueak like you wouldn't have gotten it!"

Kiyora had a response ready but was stopped by a sharp whistle. Both he and Karasu looked to Naruto. While he didn't look angry, his smile was recognizable—the same one he shared with his mom. It may have seemed welcoming, but it had hidden malice.

"Guys, we can argue who came in second behind me later. Let's just hear what she has to say." He sighed as they calmed down. "Go ahead, Alice."

"Thank you, Naruto! Now, as I was trying to say before I got interrupted." Kiyora and Karasu shivered as if they could feel a hidden threat behind those words. They could still remember what had happened to Aryu the last time he had made the Nakiri mad. "I have taken the liberty of rewarding you for your time in Blue Lock! So you will take this limousine to the Nakiri Mansion at Totsuki. When you get here, you will eat something made by yours truly."

"Thank you, Alice." Naruto may have sounded tired in his response because he was. But he knew his girlfriend would understand why and wouldn't take it as him sounding unthankful. The sigh of happiness he heard through the speaker confirmed his thoughts. "Would it be possible for you to have some clothes for us to change into? We only have our Blue Lock clothes currently."

"Of course!" All three boys thought she sounded too happy to choose clothes for them. It was the same way Kushina responded when she found something, or someone, she could take advantage of. "I'll see you soon! Bye." The call clicked off.

As the speakers went silent, all three released a sigh. "We better prepare ourselves," Naruto spoke with acceptance. "I've just signed off on Alice making us her models." His two friends silently agreed. They just hoped that she wouldn't dress them like she did Aryu. They still hadn't erased the image of him in a made costume, and it had been two years since the incident.

Karasu turned to Naruto. "You knew she was going to do this, didn't you?"

"I had a hunch. I thought that Ego agreed a bit too easily. From what I know of him, a threat of my mom meeting him wouldn't scare him." Naruto sighed as he looked out the window and watched the landscape as they drove. "But I recently found out during my call with Alice before our game that Nakiri International recently became a major investor and shareholder of Blue Lock. Plus, you guys know Alice never passes up a chance to show off. And she knows we are too exhausted to go against her right now."

The two other boys knew he was right. They had known the girl for a few years. While they didn't understand her as well as Naruto did, they understood a few of her quirks. For example, right now, she is taking advantage of a situation for her own gain—something she has done to them and others before.

Kiyora folded his arms. " You know, I was planning to sleep for the next twenty-four hours."

"Don't worry," Naruto replied. "You can sleep at my place after Alice makes us try everything in her kitchen."

The conversation slowly died off from there as the three wanted to rest as much as possible before their 'reward'. The hour-long drive flew by as they slept. It wasn't long before the limo slowed in front of the massive Nakiri estate. The driver didn't need to wake them from their slumber; the smell of something incredible awoke them like a hypnotic tune.

As Naruto stepped out, he was quickly followed by Karasy and Kiyora. So distracted by their hunger and the glorious smell, they almost missed the figure waiting at the top of the marble steps. It was an older gentleman, sharply dressed in a pristine black tuxedo and white gloves—exactly how the three imagined a high-class butler would dress. "Welcome to the Nakirki estate. My name is Claude. Lady Alice and company are expecting you."

Naruto gave a slight nod. "Of course she is. But 'and company'? Who else is here?"

Ignoring the question, Claude gestured to the doors behind him. "If you would follow me, preparations have already been made for you beforehand. Your attire for the evening is ready for you in one of the guest rooms."

Karasu raised an eyebrow as they followed the man. "Attire? I thought Alice was just getting some clothes for us. This sounds like we are getting knighted."

Still looking forward, Kiyora responded with a deadpan. "Really? It's almost as if we're dining with Alice Nakiri, a girl we know likes going over the top with everything she does."

The purple-haired teen didn't get a chance to respond as they were led through a long corridor. The butler then led them through a large pair of mahogany double doors, revealing a luxurious room. It was complete with full-body mirrors, and laid out on a large bed were a set of sleek, high-class outfits.

And standing near one of the full-length mirrors, adjusting the cuff of his dark jacket, was their friend, Kurona Ranze. "Yo," he greeted in his usual deadpan tone. "Looks like we weren't the only ones brought here for this cosplay session."

A second person walked out of the large walk-in closet, revealing Aryu Jyubei. He was already wearing a suit—tailored to fit, naturally. Seeing his friends, he gave a proud flip of his long hair. "Tch. I'll admit that these clothes sure are stylish. But this doesn't yell Aryu Jyubei."

"Kurona! Aryu!" Naruto quickly walked forward and gave both of his friends high fives. "It's been a while. How have you been?" Kiyora and Karasu promptly followed him and joined the conversation.

Karasu snorted. "Of course you'd be rating the outfit. Ya got a pocket square, and now you think yer in Milan."

Kiyora looked over his outfit with approval: "This looks good. It's a good thing we were able to shower back at the facility, though. I don't want to think about what Alice would do if we wore these smelling like sweat."

"Yeah, whoever set these out has some fashion sense," Kurona said, slipping into his shoes. "White shirts, dark tailored suits, and clean shoes."

Naruto looked over the clothes in curiosity. "Alice wouldn't have gone through all this, even with her quirks. She would still want us to be comfortable. Someone else must have done this." He started changing, looked at his friends, and wanted to laugh.

Karasu looked toward the door as if planning his escape. "I'm fine with nice clothes, but are we really about to eat dressed like we're applying to be the next James Bond?"

Kiyora shrugged as he also began changing. "Don't worry about it, birdbrain. Just think about this. We want to be pros, we might as well get used to dressing like them."

"I swear," Karasu muttered as he slipped into the black slacks. "If I have to wear a tie, I'm taking my chances walking to your house barefoot."

The other four chuckled as they finished getting ready. "Relax, Karasu," Naruto spoke. "It's just some fancy food, in a fancy mansion, and some cameras might be hidden in the walls."

When everyone finished changing, they couldn't help but appreciate how they looked. Sharp lines, clean cuts, and polished shoes—it was like stepping out of Blue Lock and into a magazine. The butler returned with almost perfect timing. He arrived at their door just as they opened it.

"Right this way, gentlemen. Lady Alice and the Nakiri family await your arrival in the main dining hall."

They stepped out of the room, now dressed like high-class celebrities instead of athletes who had just walked off the pitch. It took the five a few moments to realize what was said. "Wait, did he just say Nakiri Family?!"

As the group of five entered the largest dining room they had ever seen, they were greeted by a sight they didn't know how lucky they were to see. Seated at the long dining table were none other than Nakiri Senzaemon, Nakiri Soe, and Nakiri Leonora. The aura of authority the three were emanating was enough to make the five boys nervous about the meal they were about to have. Naruto, on the other hand, was even more anxious for a different reason. He had seen Soe and Leonora plenty of times since he started dating Alice, and he had known Senzaemon since he and his mom moved to Japan.

But since he and Alice started dating, he was scrutinized every time he saw Senzaemon and Soe. A single missstep, a single hesitation, and he would be subject to an interrogation led by the two. Naruto could still remember when he was fourteen and met Alice's cousin, Erina, for the first time. One hello was all it took for the two to pull him into another room and berate him for talking to another girl who wasn't Alice; they even asked him if Alice wasn't enough for him anymore and if he was already thinking about cheating on her. It took Alice and her mom an hour to find the three, and they saw filling multiple pieces of paper with the words 'I will not cheat' written an innumerable number of times. He still thanked them a few times a year for saving him from the two men that day.

"Welcome, Blue Lockers!" The booming voice of Senzaemon broke Naruto from his thoughts as he joined his friends in walking to the table. "I am glad Alice's friends could join us for this meal this fine afternoon." Next to him, Soe nodded in agreement while Leonora was bursting with excitement.

"I'm so glad we get to see you all, especially you, Naruto!" Leonora quickly spoke in Danish. "When Alice told us you wanted to see her again and that your friends did too, I could barely contain my excitement. I had Soe make the call immediately to get you five a free day to come here."

Naruto was stunned at what he heard, but not as stunned as his four friends, who turned to him for a translation. He smiled and spoke as calmly as he could. "Mrs. Nakiri said that she is glad to meet us. Also, Alice told her and Mr. Nakiri that I wanted to see Alice, and you guys wanted to join me. So Mr. and Mrs. Nakiri made a phone call to Ego to get us a free day out."

Naruto didn't need to look at his friends to see their looks of disbelief. He only wished he had the power to stop what he knew would happen next.

"She kidnapped us," Karasu said plainly.

"We were told it was non-negotiable," Aryu said in agreement.

"At least you were told where you were going," Kiyora complained. "Naruto had to tell us."

"You didn't want to disagree with the driver. I was carried to the car when I tried re-entering the facility." Kurona glared toward the kitchen where he knew Alice was hiding.

Naruto was starting to sweat under the scrutiny of Soe and Senzaemon after his friends' words. Only Leonora's pleasant smile and prayers that he would be saved kept him outwardly calm. He knew someone must have been watching over him when Alice walked out of the kitchen, followed by a group of aids.

"You can ignore their words," Alice said with a smile. "They are just saying that because they are tired and upset." The look she sent the four would have made many run. "Anyways! They were treated to a five-star ride. The details of how the ride happened aren't important."

There was a short silence as Alice smiled at her parents, ignoring the looks of indignation the four boys were sending her. While her mother smiled back at her, used to her antics, the look her father sent her made her slightly nervous. Thankfully, her grandfather was her saving grace.

"Well, it does not matter how they arrived here! It is time for their reward for passing the first selection." Senzaemon gestured to the food the aids were bringing in. "Alice, why don't you tell the boys what you made for us?"

Alice glowed at that. She always loved it when she was the center of attention; this time, her cousin couldn't steal her spotlight. She gestured dramatically. "Everyone! Feast your eyes on today's menu. All cooked by yours truly, each dish has been crafted specifically for post-athletic recovery. Each dish will serve as an exploding celebration of taste for your performance over the last month." Of course, Karasu couldn't let her do this without at least one jab at her.

"Translation," Karasu muttered. "She cooked because she was bored and wanted to show off."

Alice huffed. "Shut up, bird for brains!" She enjoyed watching Naruto and Aryu hold the teen back as he tried to stand up. Watching Naruto hold Karasu's mouth shut was even better for her. "To continue what I was saying. Your first dish is a chilled cucumber and yuzu soup with a slight drizzle of truffle oil and a herb garnish."

When she sat down, the food was passed out, and everyone dug in. The five boys did their best to control their reactions as they ate. The food was good, they would never say it wasn't, but only Naruto would give Alice the satisfaction of praising her cooking. But Naruto knew that they restraining themselves was praise enough for Alice, it was her win.

The courses kept coming as the conversation started to flow—seared salmon in a miso-lavender glaze, wagyu with charred leeks, and a tomato confit tartlet with basil foam. As the meal went on, Naruto and his friends were reminded that Alice was still a culinary prodigy—one who acted like a mad scientist with the discipline of a Michelin star recipient.

"So," Soe spoke up calmly. "We have been going over your Blue Lock data. I must say, it was… interesting."

Naruto blinked. "You've… been looking at our stats?"

Soe nodded. "Of course. The Nakiri family does not invest lightly. When we invest in something, we make sure the ingredients' quality matches the dish's value."

The boys starred at the man in a mixture of shock and confusion. "Are we the ingredients?" Kiyora muttered.

"Of course we are," Aryu responded. "We can only be the highest quality of ingredients."

The other four agreed before they all dropped their heads as their friend started muttering about being a stylish ingredient. "So, can you give us any information about what's going to happen, Mr. Nakiri?"

"Well," the high-class man started. "As you have probably figured out, your teams and rankings meant nothing. As Ego probably told you, the first selection was about turning zero to one. You took what skills you excelled in and used them to win." The boys nodded at that. While they didn't follow along with that thought in the first selection, they noticed that their opponents and teammates did. They also knew that their ranks were wrong from the first time they got them. While others would debate it, they all knew that Naruto should have—would have been number one.

"Naruto, Karasu, and Kiyora. You three forced your team to play for you while elevating who you thought had the most potential." The three boys agreed with what was said. "Aryu and Kurona. You two had it a bit different. While you worked great together and others recognized this and adapted, a few refused to change." The two nodded yet internally groaned. They wouldn't forget the three strikers that almost cost them two games.

The boys all stayed quiet. While they knew about their data and film going to Fukuda, they didn't think anyone outside Blue Lock would see it. If the Nakiris could have seen it, who else could have seen the data on them? There was no doubt that the group all wanted to go pro, and Naruto and Fukuda made them realize it was possible.

"Sir," Kiyora spoke up. "After watching us, what do you think? Do we have what it takes to make it through the next phase?"

It wasn't Soe who responded, but Senzaemon. "I have no doubt that you all will make it through the next phase, but do not mistake this for it being easy." The teens struggled to look at the man as an oppressive feeling fell on them. They knew in this moment, it would decide how they went forward. "Blue Lock doesn't need you five as individual strikers anymore. It doesn't need Kiyora Jin. It doesn't need Karasu Tabito. It doesn't need Aryu Jyubei. It doesn't need Kurona Ranze. And it certainly doesn't need Uzumaki Naruto."

Silence overtook the room at that. Naruto and his friends didn't know how to respond to being told they weren't needed. He said they would pass but weren't needed. What could Senzaemon mean? Soe, Leonora, and Alice had varying reactions. Soe stayed calm and collected while Leonora tried to keep her positive look. Alice, though, stared at her grandfather in shock. While he would never admit it, he was one of Naruto's greatest supporters and would always be looking for information about the Magian whenever Naruto wasn't in Japan. Before she could argue, the head of the Nakiri family spoke.

"Blue Lock needs The Assassin, who can be cold and calculating—yet when it's needed, he doesn't hesitate to step into the spotlight." Karasu focused in after hearing that. His eyes sharpened as pride filled him.

"And there is no assassin without his Hidden Blade—one who can appear at the perfect moment before fading away in silence." Kiyora gave a small nod to the man, the corner of his mouth shifting into a grin.

"Then there is the Silent Predator—underestimated by many before it's too late. By the time they realize their mistake, he's already disappeared." Kurona kept a neutral expression, yet there was a glint in his eyes, a silent motivation.

Senzaemon smirked as his smile grew wide. "And let's not forget the Stylish Sentinel—graceful yet lethal. The one who stands towering at the center of the back line and holds it as his wingbacks rush to return." Aryu flipped his hair dramatically as he took in the praise, a pleased gleam in his eyes.

Senzaemon turned to Naruto with a fire in his eyes. "Then there is their commander, The Magician—one who views the field like a chessboard before bending it to his will. Every play has a purpose. The game isn't played; it's rewritten as his magic takes root." Naruto gave a half-smile as he stared at Senzaemon with calm eyes.

"Blue Lock needs the Uncrowned Kings of Football to be shown why they rule Japan's street and underground football scenes." The five teens swelled with pride at those words. They took them as meaning one thing: Blue Lock would see why these five were even more dangerous when they played together. If they thought they were skilled separately, then they would be in for a rude awakening. "Now, prove to us that our investment is worthwhile."

The silence that followed wasn't broken, even as dessert was served. Not even the always cheerful Leonora tried to break the silence with her usual teasing of Naruto and Alice. But this silence wasn't bad; if anything, it was empowering. Senzaemon's words didn't just ignite pride within the teens. It stoked the flame each held when they entered Blue Lock. The first words spoken again only happened at the end of the meal.

"Well then!" Alice's clap brought everyone's eyes to her. "I think after tonight, these guys are ready for everything. Grandfather's words weren't just an endorsement for you five; it was your declaration of war against the other Blue Lock contestants."

Leonora chuckled lightly as she stood. "Boys, in this family, we always deliver our critiques with style. So I hope you all play with the same style you have been since you started playing together."

Soe adjusted his glasses with a calm nod. "The ingredients have been prepared and the heat applied. Now, we must wait and see if this dish becomes a masterpiece worthy for Nakiris."

Karasu rolled his eyes and looked at Naruto. "Is everything always about food around here?"

"Yes," every Nakiri in the room answered.

"Hahaha!" Karasu stood up, still chuckling. "Honestly, I should have expected that answer for how long I've known Alice."

Naruto sighed as he and the others stood. "You really should have. But I think it's time we head out. If not, I fear that Alice may enter us into one of her school's Shokugekis." He ignored the girl's pout and denial, he wasn't fooled.

"What time is it anyways?" Kurona asked as he looked over at the door.

"Around 6:00 P.M.," Aryu replied as he stretched. "We've been here for quite some time. Not that I'm complaining; the Nakiris are stylish after all."

Naruto nodded before he and his friends bowed to the Nakiri family. "Thank you all for the meal and your hospitality."

With that said, the five boys took their leave. They made their way through the halls of the Nakiri mansion with one thought: Dominate Blue Lock. When they reached the large door of the mansion, they were surprised to hear Alice call out for them. Her attire had changed to the uniform she wore for Totsuki.

"You five aren't leaving without me," she declared with a smirk. "I need to make sure whatever you eat tomorrow will prepare your body for when you head back to the Blue Lock facility."

Naruto gave a small smile, ignoring Karasu's groan. "Fine with me. Just remember, you have to fight my mom for the kitchen." Her smirk didn't fade at his words; it grew.

The six teens climbed into the limo and relaxed. The Uncrowned Kings of Football would spend their day off tomorrow relaxing at the Uzumaki residence. But now they had a Nakiri Princess joining them.

The ride into Tokyo was quiet. The silence was exactly as it was at the mansion—not awkward, but comfortable. This was the kind of silence shared between friends who didn't need to break the silence with conversation.

Kiyora was half-asleep as he tilted his head against the window with earbuds in. Kurona stared at the dimming skyline, taking in his surroundings. Aryu scrolled through his phone as he murmured about his favorite fashion posts. Karasu and Naruto sat across from each other. Karasu tossed a coin between his hands as Naruto leaned back with Alice leaning on his shoulder.

"Any chance Ego's gonna go easy on us after this?" Karasu asked, breaking the comfortable silence.

Naruto smirked as he closed his eyes. "I don't think Ego knows the definition of easy."

"He better," Kiyora yawned as he took out his earbuds. "I still need to recover from being our team's only runner without Kurona."

Aryu nodded as he put his phone away. "We better enjoy tomorrow then. I can't play with style if I'm not well rested."

The limo turned down a quiet residential street. While it wasn't lined with mansions like the Nakiri one, it still showed that it was a wealthy neighborhood.

"We're here," Naruto murmured as he woke Alice up. He stepped out of the limo first, taking in the view of his home. The fence gate opened without a creak. The scent of food and faint incense drifted through the air from the various homes. Naruto narrowed his eyes at that—his mom was an early eater when he wasn't home, and it was already a bit past six. But that didn't worry him.

The front door was slightly open.

"Uh… did your mom forget to close the door?" Karasu asked, sensing something was off.

"No," Naruto replied as he stepped inside the home. "She doesn't forget anything."

"Bad. Bad." Kurona muttered as he and the others followed him in.

The only thing that comforted the six was the faint sound of conversation coming from the dining room. As they entered, they saw everything was fine. The room was softly lit, with dinner already set at the table—but that didn't catch their attention.

Kushina laughed as she sipped tea across a tall man with medium-length light blonde hair. The man held the presence of someone who had long since earned respect without having to ask for it. Leaning against a counter behind Kushina, standing with his arms crossed and an unreadable expression, was none other than Fukuda Tatsuya.

The man on the other side of the table looked up first.

"Hello, Naruto." His voice was deep and even. "I thought it was time that we met again."

Naruto froze. His eyes narrowed in disbelief, then widened with recognition.

The others couldn't tell what stunned them more—the casual familiarity of the man's tone or how Naruto looked like a lightning bolt had struck him.

Karasu leaned back toward his friends. "Yo… is that—?"

Kiyora nodded slowly, his face losing any sign of tiredness. "Yeah… that's him."

Marc Snuffy.

The man who changed everything.

The Magician's first mentor had returned.

A/N: Thank you for any feedback you may have! I appreciate the constructive criticism. I will also try my best to answer any questions that are left in the comments.