Chapter 23

The next morning, as promised, Queen Otohime personally led Naruto and a small entourage to the royal dojo. The training grounds were expansive, a testament to the martial culture of the Fishman. Several warriors were scattered across the area, practicing intricate katas. Each movement displayed a harmony of power and fluidity, perfectly suited for their underwater environment. Naruto's eyes gleamed with focus as he observed the sessions, his observational Haki scanning every detail of their techniques.

He stood silently, his analytical mind breaking down each movement, noting their strengths and subtle weaknesses. His experience in taijutsu, combined with his battle-hardened instincts, allowed him to process their techniques with astounding accuracy.

"Are you satisfied?" Otohime asked, her voice calm but curious as she watched the warriors sparring.

"Affirmative," Naruto replied, his tone respectful. "I am very thankful for this opportunity."

"Would you like to fight?" she asked, tilting her head slightly. Otohime knew that many warriors preferred to test their mettle firsthand.

Naruto's lips quirked into a small smile. "Would it be alright? They might get hurt," he said casually, his tone almost dismissive.

His words immediately sparked irritation among the warriors in the dojo.

"The nerve of this human!" one muttered under his breath.

"Does he think we're weaklings?" another growled.

Otohime noticed their bristling reactions but turned to them with a composed expression. "Will you be fine?" she asked gently, though her tone left no room for refusal.

One of the senior fighters stepped forward, his face set in determination. "We'll be fine, Your Majesty. There's no battle without pain."

"You heard them," Otohime said, turning back to Naruto. "Do as you wish, but do not cause any permanent harm."

Naruto nodded and began removing his armor, setting it aside carefully. The gesture caught the attention of the watching nobles, Axel and Mjosgard, who stood alongside Otohime. Axel's gaze was calculating, while Mjosgard appeared more thoughtful, though wary.

As Naruto stepped into the ring, he stretched his arms and took a relaxed stance. His demeanor was calm, but his eyes held a sharp edge. "Hope you can give me a challenge," he muttered, his voice tinged with boredom.

The senior Fishman warrior bristled at the comment. "You'll get more than a challenge," he snapped, stepping onto the stage with a fierce glare.

Naruto smirked, unbothered by the hostility. He waited patiently as his opponent settled into a stance, signaling the start of the match.

The Fishman warrior charged first, his fist rocketing forward with impressive speed and force. Naruto sidestepped effortlessly, his movements smooth and precise. Yet, as the punch missed, Naruto felt a faint shockwave ripple through the air, the force carried by the surrounding water vapor.

"Interesting. They can transfer force beyond direct contact," Naruto mused.

Without missing a beat, Naruto countered with a straight punch of his own, creating a shockwave that momentarily pushed his opponent back.

"That was just a warm-up," the Fishman growled, recovering quickly. "I hope you're not all talk, human."

Naruto smirked, his eyes narrowing. "Keep the jokes to yourself. You're not strong enough to fight me."

The taunt stung, and the Fishman rushed forward again, unleashing a series of rapid punches. Naruto evaded with ease, weaving through the strikes like a phantom. Then, seizing an opening, he launched himself into the air and delivered a powerful kick to his opponent's face. The impact was brutal, breaking the Fishman's nose and sending him sprawling.

Blood dripped from the warrior's face as he climbed back to his feet, his expression twisted with rage. Abandoning strategy, he charged with all his strength, his fists flying in wild succession. This time, one of his strikes landed—a devastating palm aimed at Naruto's heart.

Naruto reacted quickly, using his hand to redirect the blow. The attack struck his abdomen instead, sending a crushing force deep into his body. He fell to his knees, coughing up blood as the damage to his internal organs became apparent.

The Fishman froze, his rage dissipating as he realized the severity of his actions. "Please, get him to the doctors!" he pleaded, panic evident in his voice.

Otohime immediately ordered her guards to assist. "Take him to be healed at once," she commanded.

Naruto didn't resist as the guards carried him away. Internally, he was calm. Despite the blood and apparent injury, he knew his body would heal swiftly. "This pain is temporary. My healing factor is leagues beyond human limits. Let them think they've won."

As he was carried off, Naruto's lips curled into a faint, hidden smile. His plan was unfolding perfectly. He had demonstrated both strength and vulnerability, creating opportunities for further influence.

Back in the dojo, Otohime turned her attention to the defeated Fishman. Her usually gentle expression was cold. "Take him away so he can reflect on his actions," she ordered.

The warrior lowered his head in shame, offering no resistance as the guards led him away.

The nobles exchanged glances. Axel's smirk widened. "It's no trouble, Queen Otohime," he said dismissively. "After all, he's just a guard."

Mjosgard, however, remained pensive. "It wasn't your fault, Your Majesty. It's just an unfortunate incident, likely caused by our strained relations." His gaze lingered on the spot where Naruto had fallen.

"The boy… there's more to him than meets the eye. Am I being paranoid, or is there something deeper at play?" he thought, his unease growing.

The doctors finished tending to Naruto's injuries, applying their medicines with careful precision. Once their work was done, they left him to rest in the bed, leaving behind a quiet room bathed in the soft glow of coral lamps. Naruto lay there, his expression calm, though his mind was abuzz with plans and observations.

Moments later, the door opened quietly, and Queen Otohime stepped into the room. Her face was a mix of apology and concern, and she carried herself with her usual grace.

"I apologize for what has happened," she said, her voice soft but sincere.

Naruto turned his head to look at her, offering a gentle smile despite the situation. "No problem, Your Majesty. These things happen. I don't blame you or the fighter. I can understand how he feels. Until there's more exposure to humans who are trustworthy, this kind of misunderstanding is to be expected."

Otohime's expression brightened slightly at his words, a faint glimmer of hope visible in her eyes. "Thank you, Naruto. It means a lot to hear that. I'd love to talk with you longer, but unfortunately, I have duties to attend to."

Naruto inclined his head respectfully. "It's an honor that you made time for me, Your Majesty."

Otohime giggled lightly at his formality. "Hehe, see you later, Naruto," she said warmly as she left the room.

As the door clicked shut, Naruto's smile faded, replaced by a calculating look. "She'll definitely be surprised when she sees my gift." He reached into his belongings and pulled out one of his medical pills. Swallowing it, he felt its potent effects beginning to mend his body from the inside.

"Those techniques," he thought, replaying the earlier battle in his mind. "They're remarkable. With my experience in similar styles and the precision of my observational Haki, I've already begun to copy their moves. That last technique especially—it's like the Hyuga's Gentle Fist, targeting internal vulnerabilities without worrying about external defenses. Exactly what I wanted."

Naruto's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he leaned back, arms crossed. "And the Queen… she's warming up to me even more. If this were a matriarchal society, seducing her would have been a viable strategy. Unfortunately, the King holds the power here, but at least she still wields significant influence over him."

A knock on the door broke his train of thought, and Naruto looked up to see Mjosgard entering the room. The nobleman carried himself with an air of friendly concern, though his eyes remained sharp and observant.

"Hello, Naruto. How are you feeling?" Mjosgard asked in a genial tone.

"I'm doing well, thank you for asking," Naruto replied politely. "How may I be of service?"

Mjosgard waved a hand dismissively. "No need for formalities. Just relax for a day or two. I came to check on you and to inform you that you're free for today. You can rejoin tomorrow."

Naruto bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for the kindness."

"You're welcome," Mjosgard said with a faint smile. "And I must commend you for how you handled the incident earlier. You didn't escalate the situation, even after what happened."

Naruto's expression remained neutral as he replied, "I understand them, so I'm willing to give them the chance to change."

Mjosgard nodded thoughtfully, though his mind lingered on Naruto's words. "He understands them… What does he mean by that? Is there a deeper meaning, or is it just a simple statement?"

"Well, rest now," Mjosgard said after a pause. "We'll meet again tomorrow." With that, he turned and left, leaving Naruto alone once more.

Naruto waited until he was sure the medicine had taken full effect before rising from the bed. His movements were deliberate, showing no signs of his injuries. "Let them think I'm still hurt," he mused, slipping into his Anbu clothing and securing the cursed gloves on his hands.

Walking out of the room at a measured pace, Naruto noted that none of the staff tried to stop him. Apparently, Otohime had informed them that he was free to leave at his discretion. "Trusting to a fault," he thought, his smirk returning. "If she were a truly shrewd ruler, she'd have someone shadowing me at all times. Or… perhaps her people are her eyes. Could she be that devious?"

Naruto strolled through the streets of the Fishman District, observing the architecture, the layout of the city, and the interactions of its residents. His sharp eyes cataloged everything, from the various Fishman and merfolk species to their routines and behaviors. Every detail could prove useful.

As he walked, a voice called out from the side. "Hey, human!"

Naruto turned, his expression neutral, until he saw who had spoken. An octopus Fishman stood there, his eight limbs coiling slightly in the water. Arachne's voice echoed in Naruto's mind. "Master, that's the one who saved you."

Naruto's expression softened, and he offered a genuine smile. "Hello. My name is Uzumaki Naruto. Thank you for saving me," he said, his tone warm and respectful.

Hatchan, often called Hachi, studied Naruto as they spoke. Now that Naruto was fully awake and moving, Hachi noted the subtle shift in his demeanor. He seemed friendly and approachable, exuding a calm yet confident aura. It reminded Hachi of someone he had encountered in the past—a marine named Hina. There was a similar sincerity in his presence.

Naruto broke the silence with a humble tone. "I thought it would only be proper to reward you for your help. So, what can I do for you? And, if I may, what is your name? It feels rude not to know the name of my savior."

Hachi gave a small laugh, scratching the back of his head. "My name's Hatchan, but you can call me Hachi. As for a reward, I don't really need anything. I just helped because it felt like the right thing to do."

Naruto smiled, his tone gentle but insistent. "That's a noble sentiment, but it would put my mind at ease if you made a request. How about a sword—or even a pair? Your hands bear signs of someone accustomed to wielding blades."

Hachi hesitated, sensing that Naruto wouldn't easily drop the subject. After a moment, he relented. "Alright, if you insist. We're a little short-staffed at the café right now. Could you lend a hand? It'd mean a lot."

Naruto chuckled, masking his internal thoughts. "A nice guy, but too simplistic. A tangible request, like the swords, would have been more practical. Still, if this is what he wants…" Outwardly, he gave a polite nod. "If that is your wish, then lead the way."

"Great!" Hachi exclaimed, grabbing a box he had set aside earlier. As they walked, his lighthearted demeanor contrasted Naruto's internal musings. "If this had been years ago, I wouldn't have questioned his logic," Naruto thought. "But time has made me cynical. He just doesn't want to inconvenience me."

The pair arrived at the Mermaid Café, a lively and colorful establishment filled with energy. Hachi explained that Naruto's task would involve cleaning while the girls handled waitressing. Without complaint, Naruto began scrubbing floors and washing dishes, approaching the work with diligence. As he worked, he took in his surroundings and pieced together the café's unique charm.

Among the more intriguing elements was the presence of a fortune-teller. The thought piqued Naruto's interest. "A fortune-teller... That could be useful. Perhaps she could give me insight into something I've missed."

During a break in his chores, Naruto approached Hachi, who was taking a moment to rest from cooking. "Hey, Hachi, would it be possible to meet the café's owner?"

Hachi grinned, wiping his hands on his apron. "Oh, you want to know your fortune? Sure thing! I'll let her know. She's probably free right now."

Naruto offered a genuine smile. "Thanks, I appreciate it. I owe you."

Hachi waved him off. "No need for that. Give me a moment." He disappeared into the back, leaving Naruto to wait and wonder. "I wonder what kind of reading I'll get. Could be interesting."

Hachi returned a few moments later, gesturing for Naruto to follow. "You're good to go in," he said cheerfully.

Naruto nodded in gratitude and stepped into the owner's room. "Excuse me," he said politely as he entered.

The room had an air of mystique, dimly lit with the soft glow of coral lamps. The scent of incense lingered faintly in the air. Seated on a plush sofa was Shyarly, the café's owner. She was an imposing figure, both physically and in presence. Her beauty was undeniable, but what caught Naruto's attention was the enigmatic aura she exuded. Her gaze was calm, almost otherworldly.

Shyarly glanced up briefly, acknowledging Naruto's presence. "Just a moment," she said, focusing on the equipment spread out before her.

Naruto waited patiently, his eyes subtly scanning the room for details while keeping his observational Haki attuned to Shyarly's every movement and expression. Though his outward posture was relaxed, his mind was anything but. "She's not an ordinary fortune-teller. There's a depth to her... Let's see what she reveals."

Shyarly initially approached Naruto with tempered expectations. While she had heard rumors of his deeds, including saving Queen Otohime, she doubted the weight of his presence. Her opinion began to shift as her powers activated. The visions came swiftly and vividly, pulling her into a future she hadn't anticipated.

In her mind's eye, Naruto appeared adorned in striking red armor, his face emanating authority, though subtly different from how he looked now. He sat upon a grand throne, exuding a commanding presence. Around him were subjects who looked to him with reverence and fear. Then, the vision twisted—the same man now presided over an island engulfed in flames. His lips moved, and though she could not hear his voice, she instinctively understood the chilling words: "The punishment of going against my will."

A cold shiver ran down Shyarly's spine. "This human... he is destined for greatness, for better or worse." She concluded as she finished her reading and set aside her tools.

Her tone shifted as she spoke to him. "Your future is bright," she said, her voice warm yet laden with gravity. "Act on your beliefs, and you shall rule the world."

Naruto, who had been carefully observing her expressions, could tell she spoke sincerely. Though he didn't place much faith in fortune-telling, her words sparked something within him—a notion he could use to further motivate himself. "Fate has deemed me worthy to rule? That has a nice ring to it." Outwardly, he laughed, brushing her words off lightly. "Well, that sounds like a good fantasy. Thanks for the insight."

Shyarly's eyes narrowed slightly, her voice taking on a firm edge. "You shouldn't dismiss my words so lightly. I've predicted the start of the Pirate Era and countless other events. My visions are never wrong." As she spoke, she swam closer to him, her movements graceful. Stopping at his side, she shrank down to his height with a flicker of magic, reaching out to touch his face.

Naruto's smile widened. "You seem to be taking this personally."

Her gaze softened but held its intensity. "If you're truly destined to rule, I wish for you to uplift the Fishman race as well. Help my people rise from the shadows."

Naruto arched a brow, intrigued by her directness. "So, you're suggesting I accept your people as allies and help them prosper? Why should I?"

Shyarly's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Isn't that a mutually beneficial bargain? The Fishmen have much to offer, and beyond that, I hold the ear of the king. Together, we could ensure cooperation and strength."

Naruto chuckled, impressed by her sharp wit. "You're a smart woman. I like people like you—those who are useful and think ahead. If that's the deal, I'll accept. I may not know what the future holds, but I do intend to make this world a better place."

As he spoke, Naruto's thoughts drifted into a vision of his own—a fleeting glimpse of a world free from chaos, shaped by his hand. The clarity of his goal resonated in his voice.

"Just be yourself," Shyarly whispered, stepping closer. Her lips brushed against his, sealing their pact. In a burst of magic, her body transformed completely, legs replacing her tail, leaving her with a human-like appearance. Her sudden change and near-naked form made Naruto raise an eyebrow.

"I don't mind this turn of events," he said, his voice laced with curiosity. "But what's the purpose of this?"

Shyarly's face flushed slightly, but she maintained her composure. "This solidifies our bond. It's a contract that ensures we won't betray each other and will even alert us if the other is in danger. As for how I did this... consider it another form of magic, just like my fortune-telling."

Naruto smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Then I accept. I've been needing an outlet anyway," he said truthfully, the tension of recent days weighing on him. His hand slipped to the back of her head as he leaned in, claiming her lips with intensity. He could sense her submission and desire, and it awakened something primal within him. "Another strong woman drawn to this side of me. They're rare, but they keep finding me."

Shyarly moaned softly into the kiss, her body trembling under his touch. When they separated, Naruto's gaze burned with unrestrained lust. "You're truly a stunning being. Are you certain about this?"

Her eyes, hazy with emotion, met his. "Yes... Conquer me, my king," she whispered, completely lost in the vision of the man she had seen—the man she believed Naruto would become.

Naruto's curiosity flared as he pondered the possibilities of his future. He looked at Shyarly, her mysterious abilities now proven, and spoke with measured intent. "Shyarly, can you do me a favor? I need something specific. Look into my future and show me where I might gain the strength I desire."

Shyarly raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his request. "You seek strength? Interesting... Let's see what the threads of fate reveal." She closed her eyes, her expression serene as her powers activated once more. The room dimmed as an ethereal glow surrounded her, and visions of Naruto's future began to unfold in her mind's eye.

At first, she saw him standing, engulfed in a radiant golden energy. It wasn't just chakra—it was something far more potent, vibrant, and alive, pulsing with a divine intensity. Naruto's aura seemed to shine brighter than the sun, his very presence exuding an unmatched power. Shyarly's breath hitched at the overwhelming sight.

Then, the vision shifted. She saw Naruto engaged in a fierce battle in the void of space. The clash of energy and power was catastrophic, shaking the very fabric of reality. He fought against a figure cloaked in white—an Otsutsuki, unmistakably alien in appearance. Their battle was monumental, their blows sending shockwaves across the cosmos. The intensity escalated as Naruto, in a burst of unparalleled force, obliterated one of the moons. The celestial body crumbled into debris, scattering into the void like a shattered mirror.

Shyarly gasped, snapping out of her trance. "Your future... it's incredible," she murmured, her voice tinged with awe. "I saw you wielding power beyond comprehension, radiating golden energy. And then... a battle in space. You were fighting someone—something... a white being."

Naruto's expression shifted, his mind racing as he processed her words. Golden energy? Space? A white being... Could it be? He frowned, a flicker of recognition sparking in his mind. "An Otsutsuki," he said under his breath, his tone grave.

Shyarly tilted her head. "An Otsutsuki? What's that?"

Naruto let out a deep sigh, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. "Planetary parasites. They descend on worlds, consuming life and resources to grow stronger. I encountered their kind before, but honestly, I had almost forgotten about them. I didn't think they'd still be relevant in this world."

His gaze turned distant as he considered the implications. That golden energy... It must be linked to my chakra. But if I'm going to reach that level, I'll need to reinvent my chakra system. And Kurama... His chest tightened slightly at the thought of the Nine-Tails. If Kurama were here, this would be a lot easier. He'd know exactly how to approach something like this.

Naruto turned his attention back to Shyarly, gratitude evident in his eyes. "Thank you, Shyarly. This was more helpful than you realize. If I'm going to face something like that, I need to prepare—not just for myself, but for everyone who depends on me."

Shyarly nodded, still shaken by what she had witnessed. "Your destiny is immense, Naruto. If you truly become the man I saw in my vision, the world—and perhaps the stars—will forever change because of you. But be careful. Strength like that comes with unimaginable responsibility... and sacrifice."

Naruto smiled faintly, his resolve hardening. "I've never been one to run from responsibility. Sacrifice, though... that's something I'll deal with when the time comes." He gave her a small bow. "Thank you again, Shyarly. I won't forget this."

As he turned to leave the room, his mind was already working through what he needed to do next. The Otsutsuki were still out there, and he'd need every ounce of strength to face them. But now, with a glimpse of his future, he knew the path to power was within his reach. And this time, he wouldn't falter.