What is this Dimensional Chat???

"How did this happen? How dare anyone destroy my scouting force?" The figure's voice echoed through the dimly lit chamber, laced with disbelief and simmering rage. It clenched its claws, its eyes narrowing as it paced restlessly.

"Who could have done this? It would take at least one S-ranked adventurer to even stand a chance against them. And yet…" The figure's gaze fell upon the shattered crystal used to monitor its forces. The image of their obliteration replayed in its mind—swift, merciless, and utterly terrifying.

"Grrrrrrr…" A guttural growl rumbled from its throat, reverberating through the air.

"Easy now." The figure placed a clawed hand against its own chest, forcing itself to breathe, to think. A sinister smile crept across its face, its sharp fangs glinting in the dim light. "Patience. This time, I'll let you devour to your heart's content."

It straightened, its voice resonating with dark resolve. "I am the Summoner of Calamity. The harbinger who will cleanse this land of all life."

•

Naruto glared at Satria. "You're insane to launch such an attack without warning me first. Do you forget I'm here too?" His tone carried irritation, thick as the chakra swirling around him.

Satria responded with a casual shrug, his carefree grin intact. "Forget you? Not at all. I trusted the God of Hope to either dodge or block it. I mean, you're Naruto. What's the big deal?"

Naruto sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Trust, huh? You're a walking headache."

From within, Kurama roared with laughter. "Ha! The problematic brat calls another problematic brat out. This is priceless!"

Matatabi's voice purred softly in agreement. "Naruto, don't let his antics fool you. This one's dangerous—like a wolf hiding in sheep's clothing. Watch him carefully."

Naruto didn't respond immediately, his sharp blue eyes still trained on Satria. He could feel the new energy radiating from him—bright, warm, and calming, yet powerful enough to make even his beastly instincts flinch. "How can someone exude such overwhelming energy without it feeling oppressive?" he thought.

Meanwhile, Fatalis chimed in with a dry remark to Satria. "Do you think you can beat him if things go south?"

Satria tilted his head, considering it. "Maybe. I'd say a 50% chance, but the aftermath wouldn't be worth it. Let's not turn this world into Armageddon just to prove a point."

Fran, still perched on Satria's arm, stirred slightly. "Can you put me down for a moment?"

Satria gently lowered her to the ground. He raised his hand, golden energy beginning to radiate from his palm. Fran tilted her head in curiosity. "What's that?"

Satria smiled softly. "Come closer. I'll fix you up."

As the warm energy enveloped Fran, her wounds healed, her fatigue faded, and a strange, euphoric lightness filled her body. She blinked, her tail swishing instinctively. "It feels… amazing," she murmured, a soft purring sound escaping her.

Satria chuckled internally. 'Adorable.'

Then, with a flick of his wrist, Satria pulled out a Dress-up Camera that glinted in the sunlight. With a single press of a button, Fran's tattered clothes transformed into an elegant red kimono.

Fran looked down at herself in awe. "W-What is this? It's beautiful."

Naruto grinned approvingly. "Good work, brat. You've got some style. Fran-chan, you look great."

Fran blushed, her eyes flickering to Satria. "What do you think? Do I… look okay?"

Satria smiled warmly, his tone soft yet genuine. "You look stunning, Fran. It suits you perfectly."

Her blush deepened, her small hands clutching the fabric of her kimono. In her heart, memories of fairy tales surfaced—the ones her parents used to tell her about gallant knights saving princesses. "This must be what it feels like," she thought, stealing another glance at Satria.

Naruto clapped his hands, breaking the moment. "Alright, what's the plan now?"

Satria crossed his arms thoughtfully. "We need to find a city or a safe haven for Fran. This world might be medieval, but there's bound to be a place where she can rest and get supplies."

Naruto nodded. "Good idea. Let's start there." He turned to Fran, his usual grin returning. "Ready to go, Fran-chan?"

Fran hesitated for a moment, then lightly touched Satria's hand. "Can we… hold hands?"

Satria's expression softened, and he gently took her small hand in his. "Of course. My hand is yours, young lady."

Her heart fluttered at his words, warmth spreading across her face. For the first time since losing her parents, she felt safe—truly safe.

Watching the scene, Fatalis couldn't resist snarking. "Are you secretly collecting cat girls now, brother?"

"..."

"You remind me of my daughter, Fran-chan. So adorable," Naruto blurted out with a fond smile.

Fran tilted her head. "Your daughter?"

Satria, intrigued by this rare glimpse into Naruto's personal life, leaned in slightly. "Wait, you have a daughter? You didn't mention much about your family in the chat group."

Naruto scratched the back of his head, chuckling. "Yeah, I do. She's a cat girl, like Fran here. Cute as a button too. Hold on, I have a picture."

He pulled out his phone and showed them an image. The photo displayed a stunning black-haired woman with golden cat-like eyes, holding a baby girl with blonde hair and a single black streak on the right side. The woman's radiant smile contrasted with the mischievous glint in her eyes.

Fran's tail swished excitedly. "She's a black cat like me! But she has two tails. She's so cute, Naruto-san!"

The sword, silently observing through its link with Fran, couldn't contain its thoughts. 'Holy cow, that woman's beauty is otherworldly! And those... features. Is Fran going to grow up to look like her? Wait—how does a medieval setting have smartphones?'

Both Satria and Naruto paused, their faces blank as they realized they could hear the sword's inner musings.

"What a perverted sword. Trusting Fran to him might've been a mistake," Satria muttered to himself.

Naruto sighed. "Why is my life always surrounded by perverts? First Jiraiya-sensei, now this talking sword?"

Fran tilted her head in confusion. "What's wrong?"

Satria ignored her for the moment and focused on the photo. "Wait... this is Kuroka, isn't it? Naruto, did you marry an SS-Rank criminal?"

Naruto smirked proudly. "That's right! And I couldn't be happier."

Satria blinked, processing the information. If Naruto's wife was Kuroka, that meant…

Fatalis's voice echoed in his mind, laughing hysterically. "Congratulations, brother! Welcome to the family drama."

Naruto noticed Satria's reaction and raised an eyebrow. "You know Kuroka?"

Satria shakes his head. "Nope, Only her name but I live in the same world as her right now. Small world, huh?"

Naruto's eyes widened in excitement. "Seriously? That's great! My wife has always wanted to see her little sister again. And I'd love to meet some old friends, like Ichigo."

Satria froze, his expression bewildered. "Wait. Ichigo? As in Ichigo Kurosaki?"

Naruto nodded casually. "Yep. You know him?"

'How the hell is Ichigo in the DxD world?' Satria's brain raced to make sense of this bizarre connection. "Hold on. Did your world already arrange a peace meeting at Kuoh Academy?"

"Yup. I was there, standing in for the Greeks—specifically old man Poseidon. It was during the peace talks in Kuroka's world."

Satria sighed. "So it's a different version of my world. Another multiverse bullshit situation. Just my luck."

Naruto frowned in disappointment. "So my Kuroka and her little sister in your world aren't in the same world? That's unfortunate."

Satria placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Don't lose hope. I'm close to your wife's little sister in my world. If the two of them share the same struggles, I might be able to bring her to visit. But…"

Naruto perked up. "But what?"

"You'd have to do something for me first. Deal?"

Naruto crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes suspiciously. "What's the catch?"

Satria smirked. "I'll tell you later. For now, let's leave this place. The smell of monster corpses isn't exactly pleasant."

Fran nodded in agreement, still holding Satria's hand. Meanwhile, the sword finally broke its silence. "What are they talking about? Multiverse? Fran, you shouldn't get so close to strangers—even if they saved you."

Satria chuckled. "You're surprisingly chatty, aren't you?"

The sword froze, shocked. "Wait—you can hear me?"

Naruto smirked. "Yeah, we've been listening to your rambling since the start. Especially the part where you ogled my wife."

The sword panicked. "I… I didn't mean it like that! I was just curious! You're both strong, unfamiliar men, and I wanted to make sure Fran was safe!"

Satria leaned in slightly, his tone turning teasing but sharp. "Peek at our stats without permission again, and we'll have a problem."

"I-I'm sorry! It won't happen again!" the sword stammered.

Naruto sighed, shaking his head. "I swear, my life is a magnet for trouble."

Satria glanced at Fran, her small hand still holding his. He smiled softly. "Let's focus on finding a city where Fran can rest. She's been through enough for one day."

Naruto nodded. "Good plan. Let's move."

Fran's tail swayed behind her as she looked up at Satria. "Thank you for everything. You're… amazing."

Satria ruffled her hair gently. "No need to thank me. You're part of the team now, Fran. Let's get going." He squinted into the distance, pointing towards a commotion on the horizon. "Look, merchant carriages over there. They're being attacked by goblins."

Naruto glanced in the direction Satria pointed before placing a hand on both his companions' shoulders. In an instant, the group vanished, reappearing in the middle of the chaotic scene.

"What? Is this teleportation magic?" the sword asked, sounding both amazed and confused.

Naruto shrugged casually. "Something like that. So, who's taking care of this? Me or you?" he asked Satria.

Before Satria could answer, Fran stepped forward, determination shining in her eyes. "I will defeat them."

Naruto's eyes widened. "What? No way! It's too dangerous! What if you get hurt? What if—"

Satria cut him off with a playful jab of his elbow to Naruto's ribs, earning a glare from the blonde ninja.

"Go for it, Fran! Show us what you've got," Satria said, his voice calm but encouraging. "Prove to us you're not just some helpless little lady waiting for her Prince Charming to save her."

Fran's ears perked up, and a small smile formed on her face. The trust in Satria's words filled her with confidence. She tightened her grip on her sword and focused on the goblin horde, determination radiating from her petite frame.

"Let's go, Fran! Show them the power of our bond!" the sword urged her, its voice brimming with excitement.

"Yes, Shishou," Fran replied firmly, her stance lowering as she prepared to charge.

As Fran leaped into battle, Naruto turned to Satria, scowling. "Hey! What was that about?! You just threw her into danger without a second thought!"

Satria remained unbothered, leaning casually on a tree. "Relax. Fran isn't some ordinary kid. She's a warrior—stronger than you think. Trust her."

"Dammit! Too many goblins!" the merchant yelled, trying to flee as the horde closed in around him. His desperation was palpable, but the goblins showed no intention of letting him escape.

Suddenly, Fran leaped into action.

"Sword Technique: Triple Thrust!" she called out, driving her blade into a goblin's back three times in quick succession, each strike precise and lethal. The goblin crumpled to the ground, lifeless. She then turned, delivering a swift slash that cleaved her next target cleanly in two.

Two goblins charged at her from behind, their weapons raised to strike.

"My turn!" the sword's voice echoed. A shimmering wave of energy erupted from the blade, slicing through the goblins before they could get close. "That was Magical Slash. Use it wisely, Fran. I'll teach you more techniques when the time is right," the sword instructed.

Fran nodded in understanding, her movements fluid as she prepared for any remaining threats. When the last goblin fell, she checked the dimensional chat on her interface and saw a notification:

[Side Mission Complete! Reward: 25© for defeating the goblins and saving the merchant]

Fran turned to escort the shaken merchant back to safety, her posture confident and her expression calm.

From a safe distance, Naruto and Satria observed her battle.

"I see now," Naruto said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "It's a unique kind of teamwork. Fran handles the direct combat, and that living sword supports her with magic and guidance. It's like fighting two opponents in one body."

Satria nodded in agreement. "Exactly. For a girl her age, she's ferocious. She doesn't hesitate to deliver a finishing blow when it's needed. This little kitten is already impressive, but I can't imagine how fearsome she'll be in the future."

Moments later, Fran approached them, escorting the merchant, who was effusively thanking her for saving his life. She stopped in front of the two men, tilting her head slightly.

"So?" Fran asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and anticipation. "What do you guys think of my performance?"

Naruto grinned widely. "You're amazing, Fran-chan! Reminds me of myself at your age—minus the sword, of course."

Satria crouched slightly and gently patted her head. "You're strong, clever, and brave, Fran. I'm proud of you."

Fran froze at his words, her eyes widening slightly. A new, unfamiliar warmth bloomed in her chest, spreading through her body. His touch was so gentle, so reassuring. For a moment, the harsh memories of her past faded away, replaced by a profound sense of peace. Her tail began to sway involuntarily, and a soft purring sound escaped her lips.

"FBI, open up! We've got a suspicious individual over here! Arrest him immediately!" Fatalis teased, her voice full of mockery.

Satria's eyes twitched. "Idiot! I'm just praising her for her hard work! Don't turn this into something weird. You're just jealous because you're not getting the attention."

"Ehm, excuse me," the merchant said hesitantly, catching the group's attention.

The four figures turned toward him, their gazes sharp but non-threatening. The merchant shifted nervously before clearing his throat. "Do you... happen to need a ride to the city?"

Naruto stepped forward, tilting his head curiously. "Yes. Do you know the way to the nearest city?"

The merchant nodded quickly. "Of course, sir. I know the area well. How about we travel together? And, as thanks for saving me, let me offer you a ride."

Fran narrowed her eyes slightly, her hand resting on her sword's hilt. She glanced at her Shishou for confirmation, and the sword hummed softly, signaling no immediate danger.

"You want us to protect you, don't you?" Fran asked directly, her tone calm but sharp.

The merchant chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Haha, well, you caught me, young lady. The truth is, it's dangerous out here, and after what you just did... I'd feel a lot safer with you around. So, how about it? Will you accompany me to the city?"

Naruto crossed his arms, glancing at Satria. "Well, what do you think?"

Satria stepped forward, his eyes assessing the merchant with a cool, calculating look. "We'll accept your offer, but on one condition."

The merchant stiffened slightly, worried about what might come next. "And that is?"

"You'll provide us with food, drink, and some information in exchange for our protection," Satria said with a calm but firm tone. "Fair trade, don't you think?"

The merchant visibly relaxed, his shoulders dropping as he nodded quickly. "Deal! Feel free to ask me anything, Satria... sir?"

"Just Satria will do for now," he replied, extending his hand.

The merchant eagerly shook it, his relief evident. "Thank you! You won't regret this. I'll do my best to assist you in any way I can."

•

The carriage trundled along at a snail's pace, each bump and creak a fresh annoyance. For someone like Satria, who hailed from the convenience of the modern era, this was pure torture.

"No convenience stores. No toilets. No comfortable place to rest. Just trees, wild monster, and idiotic bandits. Who in their right mind would think this is fun?" he grumbled, crossing his arm.

"Quit whining, my boy," Fatalis chided, her voice dripping with exasperation. "This is the dream of countless people! Being sent to an isekai, exploring a new world, and maybe even meeting your destined heroine. It's the ultimate adventure! Stop acting like a spoiled brat!"

"Fun, huh? My phone has no internet. No games. Nothing to do. And those people who dream about being sent to a world like this? I question their sanity." He sighed heavily, staring at his phone screen.

He had considered upgrading his phone with an item called Supercomputer Core, which would enable internet access even in this satellite-less world. But the cost was ridiculous, and besides, he planned to develop the technology himself later, combining ideas and materials from different worlds. 

Fran, noticing his frustration, gently poked his shoulder. "Is everything okay, Satria? You don't seem to be enjoying the trip."

Satria sighed, his irritation melting slightly at Fran's concern. "Sorry, Fran. I didn't mean to worry you. It's just... this whole trip is so boring."

Fran tilted her head curiously, but before she could respond, Naruto chimed in with a teasing grin. "What are you, a little kid?"

The sword, observing from Fran's hand, couldn't help but mock him. "To think I was once intimidated by this brat. What a fool I was."

"Shut it, Rusty Sword! And you, Blonde Playboy! Neither of you could possibly understand my pain!" Satria snapped, pointing dramatically at both of them.

"Who are you calling Playboy?!" Naruto shot back, visibly annoyed. "And why do you act like you've lived through some great tragedy?"

The sword bristled at the insult. "Rusty? I'll show you rusty! Give me your hand, and I'll carve that smug face of yours into a statue!"

Satria smirked mischievously. "Oh? If Rusty Sword doesn't suit you, how about the Lolicon Sword? Or maybe Perverted Blade?"

"What did you just say?!" The sword practically vibrated with fury, but Fran quickly tightened her grip, holding him in place.

Naruto glared at him, torn between indignation and resignation. "Why do I even bother with you?" He muttered, shaking his head. "No wonder I feel like an idiot arguing with this guy."

The sword, however, was not so willing to back down. "Let me at him, Fran! I'll teach this disrespectful brat a lesson!"

"No, Shishou," Fran said firmly, holding the sword steady. "You can't attack him. He's my friend."

Satria let out an exaggerated yawn. "When are we getting there? I'm so bored!"

Fran, noticing his childish complaint, smiled softly and patted his head. "Don't worry, Satria. We're almost there, right, Rendou-san?" she asked the merchant.

"Yes, just a little longer, Satria-san. We're almost at Allesa City," the merchant replied with a polite smile.

Fatalis groaned, facepalming in disbelief. "I can't believe this. My bearer, being consoled by a 13-year-old girl. Truly pathetic." She shook her head. "If you didn't make that deal to escort this merchant, you could've used your Speed Force to zip to the nearest town. But no, here we are, stuck on this boring adventure."

"You're not wrong…" Satria admitted, before shaking his head. "No, wait, I mean—this isn't just for me. It's for the safety of this old man and his family. If I abandoned him, he'd probably die on the road, and his loved ones would suffer. I can't call myself a Hero of Kindness if I let that happen. Do you understand now, Fatalis?"

Fatalis paused, momentarily stunned by his response. "I... I don't even know how to argue with you. Fine, you win, you softhearted fool. Do what you want." She sighed in defeat and retreated to her usual slumber.

"The way you three handled all the enemies we encountered on this journey…" the merchant began hesitantly. "Can I presume you're adventurers?"

Naruto scratched his head. "Actually, no, we're not adventurers. But…" He glanced at Satria, who looked intrigued.

"Can you explain what adventurers are and how their guild system works?" Satria asked, his curiosity piqued.

The merchant explains the 8 categories of monsters according to their threat level and gives a corresponding rank.

==============

S: Global Crisis

Example: Fenrir & Divine Dragon.

A: Continental Threat

Example: Demon Lord, Lich, Monarch Dragon

B: National Crisis

Example: Greater Demon & Giant

C: Citywide Crisis

Example: Tyrant Saber Tiger

D: Townsites Crisis

Example: Hydra & Blast tortoise

E: Village Crisis

Example: Wyvern

F: Can be dealt by a party of low-rank adventure or mercenary

Example: Pack of Wolves & Horde of Goblin

G: Can be dealt with by normal adult 

Example: Goblin 

=================

And of course, if there is a monster adventure surely exists too. Next, the merchant explains the rank of adventure in this world.

================

S: Legendary Adventure only 8 in the world

A: Heroes, Only a few in each country

B: Highest Rank of Adventure

C: Veteran

D: Skilled

E: Beginner

F: Fledging

G: Trainee

======================

"Adventurers hunt monsters to earn their living," the merchant explained. "With your skills, I highly recommend joining the guild. Not only will you earn a certified rank, but you can also sell the materials you gather from the monsters you slay."

Fran's eyes lit up with determination. She clenched her fists. "Then I want to become an adventurer!"

Naruto panicked. "What?! You're too young! It's dangerous—Auch!" Satria smacked Naruto's head, silencing him.

"Stop being overdramatic, dobe," Satria scolded before turning to Fran with a serious expression. "Are you sure about this, Fran? The life of an adventurer isn't just about defeating monsters. It's full of danger, especially for someone your age. Out there, you'll face not only enemies but also betrayal, rivalry, and even lunatics. It's not a world for the faint-hearted. Girls like you should be living a happy, carefree life—not walking a path full of hardship."

Fran looked down, crestfallen. Satria sighed, kneeling to her level. "Don't misunderstand me, Fran. I'm saying this because I care about you. You're brave and incredibly talented—there's no doubt about that. But the world is harsh, and I want you to be prepared for it."

He placed a hand gently on her shoulder. "So here's my proposal: follow me or this dumb blonde over here until we decide you're ready. If you agree, we'll provide training, education, food, and a home. Or, if you prefer freedom, you can choose to travel on your own and grow stronger through your experiences. Both paths have their own benefits, so think carefully. Whatever you decide, Fran, I'll support you."

To be continued...