Naruto Multiverse

A week had passed, and Naruto had grown significantly stronger. His partners, too, had become accustomed to combat, adapting quickly to the challenges they faced. Today, however, was a rare moment of reprieve. To prevent mental strain from constant fighting, he decided to take a leisurely stroll through the quieter streets of New York, far removed from the monster zones.

As he walked, he unexpectedly bumped into someone familiar. "Euryale," he called out, quickening his pace to catch up with her.

She turned, her golden eyes lighting up when she recognized him. "Naruto, it's nice to see you again. I thought you'd come visit us, but it seems you're not that interested," she teased, her tone light but carrying a hint of warmth.

Naruto chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "No such thing! I've just been busy, that's all. I love meeting new people and making friends. How have you been? Any trouble?"

Euryale led him to a small café nearby, sitting down with a graceful motion. "We're managing. Life's been improving, but..." Her voice faltered, her teasing demeanor giving way to a softer tone. "The thought of our little sister suffering sometimes gets to me. It's why I wander alone now and then, even though we rarely part ways."

Naruto frowned, not liking the sadness clouding her face. "Don't look sad. It ruins your pretty face," he said, his voice warm and reassuring. "Trust me—I'll help your sister. From everything I've read, she had good reasons for losing herself. I'll do my best to bring her back to sanity."

Touched by his sincerity, Euryale gazed at him with her golden eyes shimmering. "Thank you, Naruto. You're the first person in thousands of years to be so kind to us. It makes my heart flutter. Would you take responsibility if I fell in love with you?" she asked, a playful smile dancing on her lips as her purple hair swayed with the breeze.

Naruto blinked, caught off guard by her candidness, but smiled in return. "I'm not sure I qualify for such a position, but thank you for even considering it."

Euryale tilted her head, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "Oh? You don't seem confident now. Why is that?"

Naruto leaned back, his expression turning thoughtful. "I've never had much experience in this area. In my life, I think only one girl ever confessed her love for me, and I didn't even know how to respond. Girls don't seem to like me that way, so I don't expect it."

Her brows knitted slightly in disbelief. "Is that so? Then you should understand this—you are a desirable partner. Don't sell yourself short. I'm attracted to you, from your looks to your strength and personality. If you lack confidence in this, you'll make those who admire you feel unworthy."

Before Naruto could respond, Euryale leaned in and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Her actions left him momentarily speechless.

"It was fun talking with you, but I need to leave now. See you later," she said with a radiant smile, leaving him behind as she disappeared into the crowd. The envious glances from nearby onlookers didn't escape her notice, prompting her hasty exit.

As she walked away, her thoughts wandered. He already has people who love him dearly. I wonder if he would ever consider polygamy as a solution...

Naruto, still seated, touched his cheek in mild confusion. Why did she rush off like that? He stood, preparing to head back when he felt a familiar presence. Gaia settled herself on his shoulder, her serene expression bringing him an odd sense of calm.

'This... is this what it feels like to have a family? I wish we could stay together forever. It feels so natural,' he thought to himself as his lips curved into a peaceful smile.

"Did you have fun, roaming around alone?" Gaia asked, her voice gentle as she observed his contented demeanor.

"It was okay," Naruto replied casually, starting to walk again. "But I prefer it when you're with me."

His words caught Gaia by surprise, and for a brief moment, she forgot to respond. Warmth bloomed within her, and her usual calm mask gave way to a rare smile. "Is that so?" she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

For Gaia, those words were a treasure. For Naruto, they were merely an honest thought. Yet, unbeknownst to him, the connection between them was growing stronger, and their bond deepening with each passing day.

The night before the day of battle, the park was filled with vibrant energy. The nymphs, always in touch with the natural rhythm of life, decided it was time to lighten the mood. Naruto agreed with enthusiasm. The past few days had been intense, and the air felt heavy with the impending battle. He was eager for something different, something that would remind him of the simple joys of life.

The group gathered in the park, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of their companions. The nymphs had scoured the human world for a variety of food, each dish more delicious than the last. Drinks were flowing, and Naruto and Ella happily enjoyed the spread. For Naruto, this was an experience unlike any other. It was rare that he found himself in such a carefree environment, and he couldn't help but feel excited. This kind of celebration was unfamiliar, but it felt right.

The night sky was alight with flashes of color, the lights dancing in time with the music, creating a mesmerizing visual display. The nymphs, dressed in vibrant clothing, moved in perfect harmony with the rhythm. The melodies filled the air, and Naruto, though initially unfamiliar with the song, found himself absorbed in the music. His body had been created by Gaia, and through her, he understood every language, every nuance in the song. The rhythm coursed through him, and for a moment, it felt as if the weight of the world had lifted.

Naruto found himself humming along to the catchy chorus of the song. It was an energetic, upbeat tune, and he couldn't help but smile. If I had you—the lyrics looped in his mind, an infectious beat he couldn't ignore. Even Gaia, perched on his shoulder, seemed to feel the joy emanating from Naruto, her heart lightened by his happiness.

The nymphs, sensing his good spirits, invited him to join in. "Come on, Naruto, dance with us!" they cheered, pulling him into the center of the park, where the lively rhythm was only intensified. He grinned widely, a little shy but willing to embrace the moment.

Soon, the music shifted to a new tune, one that pulled Naruto deeper into the festivities. The energy was infectious. He moved, learning the steps with an amused smile, each nymph guiding him along. Before long, Ella joined in, and the two of them danced together, laughing as they went. In her arms, Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of peace, her presence grounding him.

"Are you feeling happy?" he asked with a gentle smile as he gazed at her face, her innocence and joy so pure.

"Ella is happy. Is Naruto happy with Ella?" she replied, her voice sweet and full of warmth, as though she had forgotten the pain of the past.

"I'm very happy," Naruto answered sincerely, pressing his forehead against hers. "You're so cute."

Ella's laughter echoed through the air, and Naruto's heart lightened at the sound. As the song continued, he was passed from one nymph to the next, each interaction filled with joy and carefree moments. Finally, he was in Alice's arms, who danced with an elegance he hadn't seen from her before.

"I hope this is to your liking," Alice said calmly, her movements graceful as she led him through the steps.

"It's wonderful. And I would love to see it again. When I'm done with my quest, I'm taking you all with me. We'll all be happy together," Naruto said brightly, his voice full of promise.

Alice's lips twitched in a smile, though she quickly masked it. "Thank you for the compliment. The little ones would also be overjoyed by your words."

"You should smile more; it would look beautiful on your face," Naruto commented, his sincerity shining through.

"I'll take note of that," Alice replied, her demeanor lightening as she allowed her lips to curve upward in a soft smile.

Naruto chuckled, pleased by her response. "See, it wasn't hard," he teased, captivated by the stunning smile she wore.

Just then, a voice called out from the back, and Stheno, one of the Gorgon sisters, stepped forward. "I hope I'm not barging in, but my turn," she said, pulling Naruto into her arms.

"Sorry, I guess I took too long, but you look stunning today," Naruto said, noting that Stheno had dressed differently, in a way that seemed to catch the light just right.

"Just for your eyes, Naruto," she teased, her voice laced with playfulness. "We don't get the opportunity to do this anymore, so consider yourself lucky."

"I'm honored and happy that you joined in," Naruto replied, a touch of warmth in his voice as he matched her movements.

Stheno's playful expression faded as she sighed softly. "We wish we could join the fight, but we'd be burdens. This is all we can do—provide moral support."

Naruto, ever encouraging, tilted her chin up gently with his hand. "It's alright. Without your poison, this wouldn't be possible. Don't look down on yourselves. You have the power. Find a weapon, start learning magic. You can grow, just like anyone else. With hard work, anything is possible."

Stheno smiled at his words, the warmth in his voice reassuring her. "Thanks. We'll try as you advised, and maybe we can be of use after the battle," she said, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Before Naruto could reply, she leaned in and kissed him on the lips, her lips soft and warm. "That was my first kiss, and your reward for helping us," she said, pulling away with a playful chuckle. She bounced away before anyone could react, but not without a quick glance toward Gaia, who seemed none too pleased.

Gaia's voice rang out, light but teasing. "You certainly seem to have a way with the ladies, Naruto."

Naruto, slightly embarrassed but still cheerful, took her hands in his. "I'm just good at making friends, and all my feelings come from the heart. Pure and untainted."

Gaia smiled warmly at him, her hands small in his. "I'm glad you're happy," she murmured, contentment in her voice.

The group continued to dance, the night filled with laughter, joy, and the promise of better days. They had all experienced hardships, but for tonight, they were free to live in the moment, enjoying each other's company and the fleeting peace before the storm. And for Naruto, the thought of his friends—of this family—was the most comforting thing he could imagine.