Digital Emperor (Naruto X Digimon)

Arthur, having agreed to the plan, embarked on his first full-force training session with Takato. Together, they ran laps, worked on various gym equipment, and performed combat drills. Takato guided him through each exercise, constantly encouraging him and making adjustments to accommodate his partner's unique physique.

The session culminated in sparring, where Arthur faced real combat situations. It was during this sparring that Arthur learned the meaning of pain—he took hits both with the armor and without it. Takato ensured the intensity of the training balanced challenge with safety, knowing the importance of building resilience. The goal was clear: while armor was a valuable tool, Digimon partners had to develop the ability to endure hits even when unprotected. Overreliance on equipment would only lead to fragility in the long run.

Arthur wasn't alone in this experience. Takato's friends had shared similar lessons with their own partners. Tesla, for instance, quickly recognized the value of armor due to his cautious nature and fear of injury. Luna embraced the gear without issue, adapting seamlessly. Asura, on the other hand, was an exception. His artificial body rendered him immune to physical pain, removing this element of the struggle altogether.

By the end of the session, Arthur lay sprawled on the gym floor, too exhausted to move. Despite the exhaustion and the bruises, his wide grin spoke volumes. He was happy—alive in a way that only intense physical activity could bring. The sparring had ignited something primal within him, appealing to his instinctual love for combat and physical exertion. Though he was unskilled compared to seasoned fighters, his ferocity and predatory instinct were undeniable, giving his fighting style a raw, untamed edge.

Takato couldn't help but feel pride as he observed Arthur's progress. Their bond had grown noticeably through this grueling session. Takato's encouragement and guidance, paired with Arthur's spirited determination, created a synergy that promised a strong partnership.

Still, Arthur's aversion to the armor persisted. While he didn't outright reject it anymore, it was clear he wasn't fond of the restrictive feeling. Takato made a mental note to gradually ease him into it, knowing that trust and adaptability would come with time and experience.

In contrast, Luna's adaptability and Tesla's pragmatic acceptance of armor highlighted their different personalities. Arthur, however, was a creature of instinct and freedom, and Takato knew he had to respect that while also teaching him the importance of preparation and protection. It was a challenge, but one Takato embraced wholeheartedly, knowing that every step brought them closer to their shared goal.

Takato sat cross-legged on the cool gym floor, his back against the wall as he reviewed Arthur's training stats on his Digivice. Arthur, completely worn out from the intense workout, was sprawled on the ground beside him, snoring softly. The little Guilmon had given his all, and now he deserved his rest. Takato couldn't help but grin as he scrolled through the data, mentally noting areas for improvement and future goals.

A familiar, melodic voice broke through his thoughts. "Takato, I hope I'm not disturbing."

Looking up, he saw the source of the voice—Juri Katou, his girlfriend. A smile spread across his face as he immediately recognized the playful tone. "Lucy, I always have time for you," he replied, referring to the fox sock puppet she sometimes used during their conversations. It was a quirky trait of hers, one that he adored.

Standing before him was Juri, her signature puppet perched on one hand. Her short brown hair framed her face, her warm brown eyes sparkling with a mix of mischief and affection. She wore a white tank top and black yoga pants, the snug fit highlighting her athletic figure. Juri's natural beauty and cheerful disposition had always captivated Takato, but it was her strength and kindness that truly won his heart.

Takato patted the ground next to him, inviting her to sit, but instead, Juri grinned and sank into his lap without hesitation. He laughed, wrapping his arms around her instinctively. She nestled against him, her presence as comforting as it was invigorating.

"Hey, what about Juri?" she teased, pretending to pout.

"Juri gets preferential treatment," Takato declared dramatically, leaning in to press a slow, tender kiss on her lips. Their relationship was still new enough that every kiss felt special, but familiar enough that they had begun to relax and enjoy each other's quirks.

Juri smiled against his lips, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "I'm satisfied with that answer," she murmured, resting her head against his shoulder. "How was the training today?"

Takato sighed contentedly, his head leaning lightly against hers. "Electrifying," he said. "Arthur was incredible. You'll love it when your partner arrives. The bond is… it's hard to describe, but it's amazing." His excitement was genuine, and Juri could feel it in the way he spoke.

Juri's expression softened as she listened, imagining what it would be like when her own Digimon finally arrived. She and the other team members were set to receive their partners the following week, and the wait felt excruciatingly long. "I'll trust you on that," she said, her voice tinged with anticipation. "Speaking of bonds, I was thinking… maybe we could go see a movie later? We didn't get to hang out yesterday, so maybe we can celebrate today."

Takato's heart swelled at her thoughtfulness, and he held her tighter. "What movie?" he asked, though his grin betrayed that he was already inclined to agree.

Juri's puppet, Lucy, "nibbled" on his nose playfully. "Trust me, you'll like it," she said with a wink.

Takato laughed, relishing the warmth of the moment. "Alright, then. It's a date." Whatever the movie was, he knew it didn't matter. Any time with Juri was time well spent.

Naruto stepped out of the Uzumaki residence, the refreshing post-training shower doing little to ease the anticipation that buzzed in his mind. With Asura resting inside his Digivice, he knew this was the perfect window to address something that had been weighing on him. His meeting with Steven couldn't be delayed any longer. The longer it lingered, the more complicated things could become, and Naruto wanted to resolve it without any lingering tension.

Steven was an intimidating figure—not just in stature but in reputation. A buff, commanding man with an air of authority, he carried himself with the confidence of someone who had earned his place in the world. Despite his imposing nature, Steven was also a man who lived with the complexities of being both a devoted family man and someone with immense physical needs.

Naruto knew that Steven, like himself, lived under the influence of the unique power that came with a bond. As a tamer partnered with Tankdramon, an ultimate-level Digimon capable of leveling entire cities, Steven's life force had been significantly extended. Thanks to the bond, his body had mutated to sustain his vitality, granting him an expected lifespan far beyond that of an ordinary human—easily reaching 200 years. However, this gift came with a caveat. The bond was inextricably tied to the Digivice, and the destruction of the device could shatter the connection, leading to the tamer's untimely death if their life force was dependent on it.

These extraordinary circumstances painted Steven's life in shades of both privilege and challenge. As a member of Rika's family, his life was governed by traditions and expectations that shaped their unique dynamics. Rumiko, his wife and a strong woman in her own right, understood the strain Steven faced. Despite their mutual love and respect, her own naturally low libido couldn't match Steven's elevated desires. This created tension in their relationship—tension that, left unchecked, threatened to unravel their bond.

Rather than allowing the strain to push them apart, Rumiko had made a pragmatic decision. She allowed Steven to seek intimacy with the household maids, provided it was done discreetly and consensually. This arrangement, while unconventional, was not unusual in their circles. Among families of influence and power, such practices often emerged as ways to preserve harmony while accommodating the unique needs of those involved.

For Steven, it was a bittersweet compromise. Though he loved Rumiko deeply and remained committed to her, his physical nature left him with little choice. He was aware of the delicate balance they maintained and made sure that every encounter with the maids was consensual. Many of them agreed out of admiration for Steven, while others saw it as an opportunity for financial or social gain.

Naruto understood the complexity of the situation and admired Steven's honesty in navigating such a delicate matter. As he approached the family estate, he steeled himself for the conversation ahead. Steven was a man who valued directness, and Naruto intended to address the matter openly and with respect.

He wasn't here to judge or impose his views but to ensure there were no misunderstandings, particularly regarding his relationship with Rika. Naruto respected Steven's position as her father and the protector of their family's legacy, and he hoped this meeting would further solidify the understanding between them.

Naruto rode his Honda Fireblade through the streets like a phantom in the night, the roar of the engine blending with the wind. Enhanced by his chakra, the machine pushed beyond its limits, accelerating with unparalleled speed. To him, the rest of the world moved in slow motion, a blur of lights and shadows that failed to keep pace. Speed thrilled him; he thrived on the exhilaration of being the fastest, leaving everything and everyone else behind.

His journey to Rika's family estate was a quick one. Normally, it would take half an hour to reach her home, but with his bike and the additional chakra enhancements, he covered the distance in under ten minutes. Henry's place, also within his reach, would have taken no more than five minutes by bike. Takato lived farther, requiring a solid thirty-minute ride at normal speed. But this trip wasn't about his friends; it was about addressing something crucial with Rika's family.

Naruto arrived at the estate, parking his bike in its usual spot. He didn't bother informing Rika of his arrival, knowing she would likely be immersed in her training. The household staff, familiar with his regular visits, didn't stop him as he made his way toward the garden. The family's morning routine was predictable—Steven and Rumiko enjoyed tea together in the garden before leaving for their respective responsibilities at 10 a.m.

As he approached the garden, the tranquil sound of birdsong filled the air. Steven and Rumiko sat together, their focus on the rare, colorful birds flitting between the trees. The two were an eye-catching pair, though for entirely different reasons. Steven, with his imposing physique and commanding aura, was a figure of raw power. Rumiko, on the other hand, exuded elegance and beauty, her poised demeanor a testament to her role as both the future head of the clan and a former model. It was clear that Rika had inherited her striking looks from her mother.

"Good morning, Uncle Steven and Aunt Rumiko," Naruto greeted, his voice cutting through the quiet serenity of the garden.

At the sound of his voice, Steven turned, his face breaking into a wide smile. "Morning, my boy!" he called out, standing to greet Naruto. "You know what? Just call me Dad from now on. You've already signed the deal with Rika," Steven added with a hearty laugh, stepping forward to envelop Naruto in a bone-crushing bear hug.

Rumiko rose gracefully from her seat, brushing her long brown hair aside as she approached. "Good morning, Naruto. My husband's right—no need for 'aunt' and 'uncle.' Just treat us as your parents."

Naruto returned the hug with a slight grin, separating himself before Steven could squeeze the life out of him. "I see how it is," he replied, his tone light. "Is this another tactic to rope me in? First, you get me to call you 'Mom and Dad,' and next thing I know, I'm having kids with Rika. How devious!" His calm expression as he delivered the playful line drew laughter from the couple.

"Come, sit with us," Rumiko said, gesturing to the nearby chairs. Her sharp intuition told her this visit wasn't merely social. She suspected it had something to do with Rika—and perhaps Hikari as well.

Naruto followed her lead, settling into a seat but remaining alert. He was well aware of Steven's emotional nature, especially where Rika was concerned. Though friendly and kind, Steven's protective instincts could manifest in sudden, overwhelming intensity.

"It has to do with my relationship with Rika," Naruto began after a moment of silence.

Steven's jovial demeanor shifted slightly. "What's wrong with it? Don't tell me you're saying she has no chance and you'll end up breaking her heart!" Though his words were framed as a joke, there was an underlying tension in his tone.

"Dear, let him finish," Rumiko interjected, placing a calming hand on Steven's arm. Her calm, measured gaze met Naruto's, silently encouraging him to continue.

Naruto took a deep breath. "I don't want you to take this the wrong way, and I'm saying this because I care about Rika. She's very important to me, but the truth is, I don't love her that way—at least, not yet. The same goes for Hikari. These things take time, and love can grow, but there's also the possibility that I'll choose both of them in the end. I'm confident I can convince them to accept that, but I wanted to be upfront with you about this possibility."

Steven leaned back in his chair, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he processed the words. Beside him, Rumiko's expression softened. Her suspicions had been correct—Naruto's maturity far exceeded his years. It was clear that he had given this a great deal of thought and wasn't taking the situation lightly.

Rumiko knew better than most how deeply Rika's feelings for Naruto ran. It wasn't merely a crush; it was an obsession. Rika saw him as her prince, the person who embodied everything she had ever dreamed of. That knowledge only made this situation more delicate.

Steven, on the other hand, was trembling with a mixture of anger and disappointment. His clenched fists and sharp gaze betrayed his emotions. To him, it felt like fate was exacting some cosmic punishment for his own past transgressions. He struggled to contain the storm brewing within him.

"You want us to accept your relationship with both of them?" Steven's voice was low but edged with frustration. "You expect us to agree to something like this when even you can't guarantee your own feelings? What's to stop you from falling for someone else tomorrow and abandoning Rika?"

Rumiko's cold gaze shifted toward her husband. Her eyes, sharp as steel, silenced the brewing storm. "Dear, calm down. This is Naruto we're talking about. He wouldn't do something like that," she said, her tone steady and authoritative. Despite her reassurance, her pride was evident. She allowed Steven certain liberties, but only under strict conditions. For her, this was different. Naruto wasn't talking about fleeting indulgence but about sharing his love—something she couldn't dismiss easily.

Naruto met Steven's glare head-on, his voice unwavering. "I understand your doubts, Uncle Steven," he began. "But let me tell you this: I took an oath. My significant other will feel as if she holds the world in her hands. I will never put her in a position where she has to explain her tears or make excuses for them. I take this matter extremely seriously. I would never treat it lightly or with disrespect."

Steven stared at him, his emotions still simmering but held in check by Naruto's conviction. Rumiko, meanwhile, tapped her fingers lightly on her seat, her sharp mind weighing the sincerity in his words.

"Why not just choose Rika?" Rumiko asked finally, her tone deceptively calm. "Do you realize that Mr. Tai will likely kill you if you say such things to him?"

Naruto exhaled, his resolve unshaken. "I am willing to fight him for Hikari," he declared firmly. "I am willing to fight the world for my love. If the girls love me back and I love them, then no one—not Mr. Tai, not anyone—will come between us."

Steven's stern demeanor cracked. A broad smile spread across his face, and he let out a hearty laugh. "Oh yeah, that's my boy!" he exclaimed, his anger melting away. "Damn, gave me chills with that line."

Rumiko sighed softly, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Fine," she conceded after a moment. "Keep Rika happy, and we will have no problems. Polygamy isn't an issue here. You're not in line to inherit a clan head position, so no one will raise a fuss. I'll accept it—but what about Tai? He's not going to be as easy to convince."

Naruto stood, bowing deeply. "Thank you for your trust. I won't let you down. Tai is a close friend of mine, and I believe he'll understand if it's for Hikari's happiness."

Rumiko gave him an amused smile, her earlier tension dissolving. "Just don't get yourself killed, son. I'd hate to see my daughter become a widow so soon."

Naruto straightened, his confidence unshaken. "Thank you for your concern. I'll handle it properly. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go meet Rika."

"You may leave," Rumiko said with a graceful wave of her hand.

Naruto turned and walked away, his steps steady and purposeful.

Steven sighed heavily, running a hand through his thick hair as he stared into his teacup. His large frame slouched slightly, betraying the internal conflict he felt. "Rumiko, are you really sure about this?" he asked again, his voice low and filled with concern. "I like Naruto. I trust him to take care of Rika. But... is this right? Our daughter becoming one of his wives instead of his only one? What if his love gets too divided? What if over time, he changes into someone completely different?"

Rumiko set her teacup down gently, her gaze steady as she met his worried eyes. "I understand how you feel, Steven," she said calmly, pouring tea into his cup. "But think about it rationally. Naruto lives so close to us. What could he possibly hide? We'll know if something goes wrong. And don't forget, we've set boundaries. No children will be conceived before they're 20. That gives us time to observe and intervene if necessary."

Steven frowned but said nothing, taking a sip of tea.

Rumiko continued, her tone firm but thoughtful. "Besides, this isn't something we can stop. Rika truly loves him. This isn't some fleeting infatuation. Naruto is right—Rika is the one who asked for this relationship. She chose it. And if it ever needs to end, she's the only one who can break it. Not even Naruto rejecting her would change her mind."

Her words hung heavily in the air, and Steven leaned back in his chair with a defeated groan. "It's still a headache," he muttered. "This morning was supposed to be relaxing, not filled with existential parenting dilemmas."

Rumiko allowed herself a faint smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "You're not wrong about that," she admitted. "Believe me, I had the urge to drag Naruto back here and whip some sense into him for his insolence. But... he's confident. And more importantly, he has valid reasons to back his decisions. He didn't come here to disrespect us; he came to be honest."

Steven nodded reluctantly, though his expression remained clouded with doubt. "What about Tai?" he asked, voicing the other concern that lingered in both their minds. "Naruto may have convinced us, but Tai won't be so easy. Especially if Hikari doesn't feel as strongly about him as Rika does."

Rumiko sighed, leaning back in her chair as she stared out at the garden. "That's the real question, isn't it? Does Hikari love him as much as Rika does? Or are there other factors at play that we don't know about?" She paused, her brow furrowing slightly. "If Naruto has a plan for that, he'd better be ready to execute it perfectly. Otherwise, things could get... complicated."

The couple sat in silence for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts about the situation. Despite her composed exterior, Rumiko felt a twinge of unease. This wasn't a situation she ever imagined facing, and yet here they were, navigating it as best they could.

"Well," Steven finally said, setting his cup down with a heavy thud. "We'll see how this plays out. But if he slips up, Rumiko..."

She met his gaze, her own steady and unyielding. "If he slips up, Steven, he'll answer to us. That's a promise."