Chapter 2: Bonds in Desolation


As the sun rose over the Tower of Heaven, its first rays cascaded through the barred windows, casting long shadows across the cold stone floor. Naruto, still groggy from a restless night, found himself thrust into the heart of the tower's relentless labour. The air hung heavy with the stench of sweat and despair, mingling with the sounds of chains rattling and exhausted sighs.

"Hello, young man. Welcome to our humble home. You slept for a while so you probably don't know the rules. So let me educate you." A guard brought his hand up and punched the boy into the ground, grunting at the force.

"Get up you little shit! Time to work!" He grabbed his staff and unleashed a wave of thunder on the small child. The boy shook in pain at the sudden attack. The attack ended and the boy tried to lift himself but was kicked forward to join the crowd. He moved along with the tall slaves and came into an open cave.

On his first day, Naruto was worked to the bone, subjected to the cruel demands of the guards who revelled in their authority. They barked orders with sadistic pleasure, forcing him to toil endlessly under their watchful eyes.

"Move faster, you worthless slave!" one of the guards snarled, a sadistic grin etched across his face. "If you don't pick up the pace, we'll make sure you regret it."

While the work wasn't anything that would overwhelm Naruto, he had to make appropriate gestures from time to time to blend into the hordes of the working class and avoid unnecessary attention.

The boy gritted his teeth, his hands blistered from the rough labour. He glanced at the other slaves, their faces etched with exhaustion and resignation. They moved with a defeated slowness, their spirits crushed by the weight of their chains.

A frail elderly man caught Naruto's attention. He shuffled through his work with a quiet determination, despite the hunched posture that spoke of a lifetime of hardship. Naruto admired his resilience, and his unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.

"You keep going, old man," Naruto whispered to himself, inspired by the elder's fortitude. "I won't let this place break me either."

As the day wore on, Naruto's empathy to his fellow slaves increased more than it should have, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a keen observation. The cries of pain and exhaustion echoed through the halls, intermingling with the guards' cruel laughter.

"Look at these weaklings," one guard sneered, pointing a finger at a slave struggling to carry a heavy load. "Pathetic. They're not even worth the dirt on our boots."

Naruto clenched his fists, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He longed to speak out, to defend his fellow slaves, but he knew that any act of defiance would only invite harsher punishment.

Days turned into weeks as Naruto and Angel, along with their cellmates, toiled under the relentless weight of their captivity in the Tower of Heaven. Each morning, they were awakened by the harsh ring of bells, their bodies weary and their spirits dampened. Their work consisted of backbreaking labour, their hands calloused and sore from the repetitive tasks assigned to them.

Naruto observed his fellow slaves, taking in the sensory details of their struggle. The elderly individuals, their faces etched with wrinkles and eyes filled with resignation, moved with slow and deliberate grace. Their steps were measured, yet their endurance shone through in their unwavering resolve. They were the ones who had endured the longest, their spirits tempered by years of hardship. Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for their resilience.

The children, much like himself and Angel, wore expressions of innocence mixed with confusion. Their eyes held a spark of hope, however faint, and their laughter echoed through the corridors of the tower, a fleeting reminder of the joy that still flickered within them. Naruto made it a point to befriend them, engaging in playful banter and sharing stories of their dreams and aspirations. In return, they offered him glimpses of the world outside the tower, painting vivid pictures of lush landscapes and bustling towns.

The adults, worn down by the weight of their burdens, moved with a weariness that seemed to seep into their very bones. Their faces, once filled with youthful vigour, now bore the weight of despair and lost opportunities. Naruto witnessed their unspoken acts of kindness, as they shared their meagre rations and whispered words of encouragement to their fellow prisoners. In their eyes, he saw a flicker of determination, a desire to protect and provide for their loved ones in the face of unrelenting oppression.

As Naruto adapted to the tower's atrocities, he found solace in his interactions with his fellow prisoners. They became his source of motivation, his companions in this desolate world. Together, they learned from each other, drawing on the experiences and knowledge they possessed. The elderly shared tales of resilience and survival, passing on wisdom accumulated over a lifetime. The children, with their boundless imagination, reminded Naruto of the importance of holding onto hope and embracing the small joys amidst adversity. The adults, despite their weariness, offered guidance and support, teaching Naruto the importance of unity and solidarity.

Through these connections, Naruto began to understand the true power of bonds forged in the darkest of times. Together, they found moments of respite amidst the harsh reality of their captivity. They shared laughter and tears, finding solace in each other's presence. Naruto's sensory perception sharpened, allowing him to grasp the subtle nuances of their emotions. The softness of a comforting touch, the warmth of a shared smile, and the silent strength that emanated from their collective spirit.

Within the confines of the tower, Naruto's determination to escape grew stronger with each passing day. He realized that their freedom was not just a personal quest but a collective one, intertwined with the hopes and dreams of those around him. He began to formulate a plan, utilizing the knowledge he had gained from his fellow prisoners, their insights becoming pieces of a puzzle that would lead them to liberation.

In the midst of darkness, a glimmer of light had emerged. Naruto knew that their journey towards freedom would be perilous, filled with risks and sacrifices. But with their bonds forged in desolation, he had faith that they would overcome every obstacle and rise above the tower's oppressive grasp. Together, they would reclaim their lives and chase their dreams, leaving behind a legacy of hope and resilience.

'It is necessary…' He thought. While many may argue over his approach of intermingling with the others too much while he should be dedicating more time to mapping out their escape, he thought otherwise.

The plans would work only if the people had their spirits intact during the decisive moment.

A soulless rebellion is like a husk of a beast, deadly by appearance but still dead in the true sense of any notion of effectiveness.


Amidst the grim landscape of the Tower of Heaven's rebuilding site, a blue-haired boy stood, his eyes determined despite the weariness etched on his face. A red tattoo adorned his right eye, a mark that seemed to symbolize his past and the struggles he had endured. He was separated from his cellmates and assigned to a spot of labour meant for an ill slave being treated at the infirmary.

At the crack of dawn, he was called off from his usual work and given a new assignment on the ground-level rubble collection site. The boy hesitated, not familiar with this area of the tower. The guards showed no patience as they prodded him forward, urging him to get to work immediately.

As he wandered through the labyrinthine ruins, the boy stumbled upon many wrong leads, causing further delays in reaching his destination. His heart pounded with anxiety, knowing that the guards would show no mercy for tardiness. Desperation began to creep in as he tried to find the correct path, but time seemed to slip through his fingers like grains of sand.

In his rush, he skipped the little breakfast that was offered to the slaves. Hunger gnawed at his stomach, but he pushed it aside, knowing he had to focus on his task. Finally, he arrived at the designated site, but the guards, who had been watching his every move, sneered at his excuses for being late.

"Thirty seconds late? That's no excuse, boy! You should know better," one of the guards barked, their faces twisted with cruel amusement.

The boy's heart sank at the guards' harsh words, and his face turned a shade paler. In an act of punishment, they confiscated his tools, leaving him defenceless against the unforgiving rubble he was meant to move.

"You'll finish your work with your bare hands, and you better be done before the lunch break," another guard chimed in, clearly relishing the opportunity to torment the blue-haired boy.

"B-Bu-"

"Was I going to hear "but" there? You know what happens when we hear that word here, right boy?"

Defeated but not broken, the boy nodded, his pride refusing to show the turmoil within him. He got down on his hands and knees, working with a denial for the misfortune born of the harsh reality of the Tower of Heaven. Each rock he moved, every piece of debris he lifted, weighed on his already aching body.

The sun climbed higher in the sky, its blistering heat adding to the boy's exhaustion. But he didn't relent, refusing to give the guards any satisfaction in seeing him falter.

As the morning dragged on, the boy's body grew weaker, his movements slower, and his spirit waning. He was hungry, tired, and feeling the weight of his separation from his cellmates. But he pressed on, finding strength in his resilience.

With every passing minute, the guards' eyes remained fixed on him, their cruel amusement growing with each sign of struggle. Yet, they couldn't break the spirit that burned within the blue-haired boy. He had faced darkness before, and he knew he would face it again. His cellmates may be far from his side, but their camaraderie lived on in his heart, fueling his determination to survive.

The lunch break neared, and the guards inspected his progress. Though he had completed the extra work they had assigned him, they found a way to taunt him further by sending away the other slaves working in the area.

The boy's heart sank, a mix of disappointment and hunger washing over him. But he knew better than to protest. The Tower of Heaven showed no mercy, and he was merely another cog in its unforgiving machinery.

Exhausted and weary, the boy sought respite under a nearby ceiling, seeking a moment's relief from the scorching sun that had drained him. As the guards moved away for some preparations at the dock, he thought he might steal a few moments of rest. However, his attempt at solitude was short-lived when his eyes locked with a purple hissing snake that glared at him with malevolence.

Fear gripped the boy's heart, and he couldn't help but let out a piercing scream that echoed through the rubble-filled space. The sound of his terror alerted nearby slaves, who rushed towards the scene, ready to lend a helping hand. But as they got closer, a sense of self-preservation gripped them, causing most to cower away from the boy, afraid to snatch him from death's embrace.

The snake remained still, seemingly under some hypnotic spell, its eyes locked onto the trembling boy. Some brave men among the slaves tried to warn him, urging him to remain unmoved and still. They devised a cautious strategy, encroaching towards the unfolding scene while staying outside the snake's peripheral.

The boy stilled, his instincts for survival and freedom driving him to hold his ground. He knew he had to remain calm, even as fear threatened to consume him. The weight of his imprisonment and the desire for freedom welled up inside him, giving him the strength to face this new challenge.

The boy's mind raced, trying to find a way out of this perilous situation. He felt trapped, cornered by the snake's gaze and the exhaustion that ensnared him. He knew that the Tower of Heaven offered no mercy, no escape. But deep within him, a flicker of defiance burned bright, a spark of determination to survive and defy the tower's cruel grasp.

But just as the boy started to gather his composure, his ears caught the sound of a sneering laugh…

The echoes of a young boy's laughter reverberated through the rubble-strewn site, causing the slaves to shudder in fear. The young boy with wild brown hair, slanted eyes, and a single sharp tooth jutting out of his mouth wore an amused and arrogant smirk.

Eric seemed to revel in the power he held over his fellow slaves.

Ignoring the protests and silent defiance from the crowd, Eric approached Jellal, who was almost limp from exhaustion and fear. He offered his hand with a mocking tone, taunting the blue-haired boy, "Ho, can you stand up now, scaredy-cat? Ha! I know maybe you'll piss yourself off if you move even an inch!"

Jellal's gaze smouldered with a mixture of fear and anger as he glared at Eric, slapping away his hand. Annoyed, Eric sneered back, "You should be thankful I even bothered helping you..."

To everyone's shock, Eric thrust his hand towards the purple snake, who obediently slithered up his arm and settled around his neck. "But then again, you didn't need it, right? Cubellios doesn't bite."

The sight of the venomous snake coiling around Eric's neck sent a shiver down the spines of the onlookers. The once abuzz site fell silent, all eyes fixated on the unfolding spectacle.

"Unless of course, you piss me off!" Eric's arrogant proclamation only further instilled fear in the crowd, and he relished their reaction.

Attempting to goad and instill even more fear, Eric tried sneaking his arm around Jellal's shoulder to let Cubellios take a closer look at his prey. The snake hissed melodically, closing in on the blue-haired boy.

Just as fear threatened to overwhelm Jellal, a calm voice broke through the tension. "You shouldn't use Cubellios as a terror weapon, Eric. He is your friend, isn't he?"

The crowd turned to see a calm blonde-haired boy, Naruto, stepping forward. He intercepted the snake's slithering path and took it onto his own arm, staring straight into the venomous serpent's golden eyes. A moment of intense silence followed as Naruto and Cubellios seemed to share an unspoken understanding.

"What do you want, Naruto?" Eric snapped, irritated by the blonde's interruption of his fun.

Ignoring Eric's anger, Naruto continued to focus on the snake. With just a slight narrowing of his eyes, he seemed to assert his dominance over Cubellios, who succumbed to Naruto's superior will. The blonde gently caressed the underside of the snake's mouth as it slithered over his shoulder, its hissing reduced to a mere murmur.

Frustration and annoyance were etched on Eric's face as he was confronted by Angel, the pale-haired girl had stomped up to him, her eyes blazing with fury.

"Why are you causing trouble again, Eric? I thought we weren't supposed to tell anyone outside our cell about Cubellios!" Angel scolded, delivering a swift chop to Eric's skull.

Cubellios hissed in a flinch, worried for his master. Eric retorted defensively, "It's not my fault the blue boy blew our cover."

Angel shot back, "It is your fault! Who even keeps a snake as a pet, anyway?"

Unwilling to back down, Eric challenged Angel's authority. "Look girl, I don't take orders from you."

Angel's voice grew sharper, "As if I'd have a subordinate as useless as you! I have better alternatives!"

The exchange between Eric and Angel further intensified the tension in the air, leaving the other slaves as uneasy bystanders to their power struggle.

"Don't worry, Cubellios, it's a daily occurrence," Naruto assured the snake with a calm smile, addressing the venomous creature as if it were a mere pet.

The blonde shinobi turned his attention to Jellal, who still watched the exchange between Eric and Angel in a strange trance. Smiling warmly, Naruto spoke to the blue-haired slave, "Well, you seem new here. Since there haven't been any new slaves taken in a while, I assume you're from a different working area. What's your name?"

"I'm Jellal," Jellal replied, his voice still shaky from the encounter with Cubellios.

Naruto's presence seemed to alleviate some of the fear and tension in the crowd, and Jellal felt a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of the Tower of Heaven.

"Hey! What's the matter, you pieces of shits? Clobber up your equipment and start digging or else I'll have one grave dung for each one of you by the night!"

The head guard's menacing voice echoed through the rubble-strewn site, causing the slaves to tremble with fear. The threat of brutal punishment hung heavy in the air, and the young boy with wild brown hair, Eric, didn't waste a second before grabbing his tools and resuming his work.

"Cubellios, hide inside my shirt! Hurry!" Naruto swiftly hid Cubellios inside his shirt, hoping to protect the snake from the wrath of the guards.

The snake seemed to understand the urgency and complied, slithering out of sight. Naruto couldn't help but marvel at the strange connection he seemed to have with the creature. 'It's great that the little guy understood me, even though I can't fathom how exactly...it doesn't even have ears,' he mused to himself, pushing away his curious thoughts as the guards closed in on the group of children.

"So, will you tell me what the hell was going on here?" The guard garbed in a knight armour, spoke with a terrifying undertone and the awe-stricken undercurrent among the crowd took an abrupt turn towards a terrific foreboding.

The panicky slaves backed away from the imposing squadron of guards as they made their way towards the centre, interrogating any unfortunate stragglers from the group of workers.

"It-it was those boys!"

One of the most terrified slaves, a woman in her mid-twenties, cried out as a guard tried taking hold of her son, who cowered back in fear of the gauntleted guard's fist.

The disciplinarian of the Tower of Heaven turned toward the group of children with a disdainful and disgusted gaze, "Cockroaches, the lot of them! What do you have to say for yourself?"

"T-The new boy! He messed up with my work! So I just pushed him away a bit! He lashed back!"

Eric splendidly dodged his punishment with a witty diversion.

Sorano frowned but kept quiet. No matter how annoying, Eric was still her cellmate and she wasn't going to make him suffer for an unknown boy who appeared out of nowhere.

"Hmm? I smell something fishy here. What's with the blonde brat?" The head guard pointed at a slightly crept-out Naruto who was getting used to the sensation of a serpent crawling over his torso.

"I-I'm Sorry sir!" Jellal exclaimed quickly, trying to divert the attention from his saviour.

"Hey, that's the brat who was late today."

"Yeah, boss that's the kid we punished with no breakfast today" The patrol guards were eager to gleam any sadistic joy they could from the situation.

"You cause disturbance during work hours, on this day no less! Do you know what would happen if they knew about this? The leaders are arriving today!", The head guard punched the blue-haired boy across the face with a hard punch that sent him into the rubble collected nearby.

The hungry and tired boy slowly rose on shaky arms to look up at the head guard but what he witnessed instead was mass panic, as the implications of the guard's words settled a dreadful realisation upon the slaves. Stories and experiences of past tortured slaves flashed through their vision.

At that moment, the boy witnessed something he never wanted to witness. He didn't know this could affect him on such a deep level. The sight of everyone losing hope and wallowing in despair brought about a numb and vulnerable sensation within the boy.

At that moment, not only was his body broken but so was his soul...

And more importantly, his will for freedom was in shambles.

The head guard strode towards the downed boy hellbent on breaking more than just a few bones in his body.

His gait however was intercepted by a scrawny blonde boy.

" That's enough!"

A sharp intake of air was all that was heard for a long period.

"What the hell did you just say, brat?" The head guard was astonished beyond belief by such transgressions from this lowly trash, but his rage overwhelmed his actions soon, as he quickly took out the broadsword from its sheath.

'Another slip up' The blonde exhaled quietly, but soon saw a golden opportunity beneath the murky hopeless atmosphere.

"S-Sir, I am very sorry. B-But this guy tried to steal my tools. I don't know why, but then my friend there just started fighting with him. You know, how hard it is to complete our daily work without those tools..hehe", Naruto said in a placating manner while stepping behind rapidly as the guard approached him relentlessly until finally, he took a pause.

" Is that so?"

"Y-Yes, sir!"

"Explain to me, why? Sumichi, Tsukichi?" The head guard questioned his subordinates in a chilling whisper.

"B-Boss it was his punishment" The two immediately ducked under a slash that cut off half their hair in a single slash.

"The most important thing is the completion of our dreams! Our heaven, The Tower of Heaven! Your personal amusement has no room!" The head guard brutally killed both of the responsible guards by slitting their throats in front of the crowd.

Gasps and gurgling, choking voices filled the air as the gruesome sight froze everyone in terror and concern for the two boys.

"Now.." A jolt of lightning struck Naruto.

Struggling to contain his amusement against such a weak attack and his own resistance to the element, the shinobi screamed in agony and tried being as natural as possible in doing so by wriggling over the ground.

"...rats shouldn't make such loud noises!"

"Naruto!" Sorano tried helping her friend in a desperate attempt by trying to breach the perimeter created by the guards around the scene.

"Wait! Sorano, don't!" Eric latched his arms around the struggling girl, effectively stopping her with his superior strength, "..That bastard, he's stronger than this!"

"But why is he acting so rashly, if you do the same, you wouldn't hold out as much as him"

Ignoring the little runt from before, the head guard picked up the downed boy, "Throw this kid into the isolation ward. I hope he lives, I'll personally kill him after the leader is gone."

With a menacing glare at the slaves huddled together, the head guard started strolling back toward the tower with another warning.

"This place is a jungle, the predators rule and the prey obey. That is the rule of the Tower of Heaven, so remember to bow before your rulers, you trash!"

'Just as expected and executed flawlessly..'The supposedly knocked-out Konoha shinobi smirked slightly. He deftly weaved a one-handed sign that a shadow at the corner of his peripheral nodded at and took off, '...Now onto the main plan.'


'I wonder what the predators would do when turned into a prey'


[With Jellal]

Jellal slowly stirred, his eyes blinking open to find himself in his cell, surrounded by his fellow cellmates. Erza, Rob, and the others looked at him with concern and relief.

"Jellal! What happened? You were brought here by a guard," Erza asked, her voice filled with worry.

"Yeah, he even gave you a free lunch," Rob added with a hint of amusement in his voice.

Jellal took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding. "I encountered someone outside the tower, a strange blonde boy. He helped me escape from the guards, but then he got caught himself."

The others exchanged puzzled glances, clearly intrigued by this mysterious newcomer.

Jellal felt a lightweight in his pocket and retrieved a letter from his pocket and unfolded it, reading its contents to his curious cellmates:


=

To Jellal,

I am sure you want to know why I helped you, It is because that is what we are here for. Even if unwilling, we help the leader in building this tower, but that makes us miserable, to loathe not just those who wronged us, but ourselves as well.

That is why we must act in some way to make sweet memories. This place is grimy, dark and full of evil people, it is a bleak world. But if consumed by it, we would become bleak too. My friend...Oh can I call you my friend, I hope you recover well.

We spend time at this tower, unwillingly, in slavery but regardless we do so. But to weave this time into a cherishable memory, we must have such sweet moments amongst ourselves, a glimmer of hope in this bleak world would shine the brightest. Our bond, so simple in the outside world, is so warm and necessary in this cold world, dead of sympathy.

Don't worry about me, if you wish to help me, remain hopeful and make those you have bonded with hopeful as well. Make memories of this fleeting time, as pleasant as they can because you are about to taste something sweeter, something you yearn for. I have seen it in your eyes, the urge to taste freedom. But for the time being, please accept my gift, this lunch...although stale it will nourish you enough to live, to see this world, free from those bounds placed by this accursed place.

For the time being, be a kind and sympathetic soul amongst these cruel, sadistic ghosts. Because even if you are miserable in the future, my friend, these memories you share with your close ones will shine brighter than ever

I hope the food I shared with you and the memory of our time together will bring more hope to you. Perhaps, in the future, we might be miserable, but deep down we will be hopeful for the taste of real freedom that surpasses all restraints, evils and misery placed upon this world.

Maybe, this hope would become a beacon for those who seek freedom within this tower, please inform Sorano that I will free you all. That is my only wish, Jellal, my friend.

~Naruto, the lunch boy."

==


"My such fine words…Who is this boy, Jellal?" Rob questioned his old eyes having a glimmer of curiosity.

"He-He was a blonde boy, he works at the rubble site." The blue-haired boy mumbled, eyeing the lunch that somehow seemed warm.

"But what does he mean by 'something much sweeter'?" Erza voiced her contemplation in a hushed voice, not interrupting her other cellmates' slumber.

"I don't know."

'That guy, he was a good person, but he'll probably die soon. Being good isn't enough to achieve freedom..', Jellal clenched his fists tightly, the snap he heard before succumbing to unconsciousness still ringing in his mind.

Something was broken, but he didn't know what.

Rob closed his eyes, ' That boy is onto something. God, please keep him safe'


[The Isolation Ward]

The isolation ward loomed before Naruto, an ominous place filled with darkness. He sat there, bound by chains, his mind racing with questions about the tower and its enigmatic leaders. The air felt heavy with unspoken secrets, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something sinister lurked behind the walls.

The heavy metal door creaked open, and the head guard stepped in. His face hidden beneath the shadows of his helmet, he exuded a malevolence that would send shivers down anyone's spine but Naruto's.

"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" He sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "A little rat caught in the trap."

The man moved forward exposing his dirty face littered with wrinkles and scars all over, with grey hair. The only thing distinguishing him from the slaves in the tower was his knight armour which shone even in the darkened room.

The man sneered, running his rough fingers through his greying hair. "I am Garou, of the Viking tribe. And let me tell you, boy, there's nothing I enjoy more than toying with weaklings like you."

Naruto remained silent, only moving his head enough to stare at the man, who wobbled around the room as if drunk in the sadistic anticipation of torturing him.

Garou laughed, the sound echoing eerily in the small room. "Ah, I see you've never heard about my reputation. Good. It's more fun when my victims don't know what's coming," he taunted, his eyes glimmering with wicked glee. "I love to kill and toy with the trash in this tower. It brings me great joy."

Just as Garou was about to launch into another sadistic tirade, Naruto seized the opportunity. He had been working on freeing himself from his restraints, and with a burst of strength, he broke free. In one swift motion, he grabbed Garou's own broadsword and slashed it across the guard's throat.

The room fell silent as Garou clutched at his throat, blood pouring from the wound. His lifeless eyes met Naruto's unfazed stare. Naruto felt no remorse for killing such a despicable man, a man who had taken pleasure in torturing and killing others.

With a frown, Naruto recalled how Garou had previously killed his own teammates. The thought disgusted him, but he knew he had no choice but to take on Garou's appearance if he wanted to escape undetected.

Using his transformation jutsu, Naruto assumed Garou's appearance. Stepping out of the isolation ward, he was met by the other guards, unaware of the change.

"What happened there?" one of them asked, eyeing Naruto curiously.

"The kid put up a fight, but he's taken care of now," Naruto replied, his voice cold and calculated.

As he made his way toward the meeting room of the tower, Naruto's heart pounded with anticipation and mystery. He was determined to uncover the truth, to peel back the layers of deceit, and to ensure the safety of his fellow slaves.


[The meeting Hall]

Garou entered the meeting room with a calm facade, though his mind was racing with curiosity and suspicion. The fat and short mage, along with the tall and skinny mage, were deep in conversation when they noticed him. He bowed respectfully, keeping his true identity as Naruto hidden, and awaited their acknowledgement.

"Well, well, who do we have here?" the fat mage said with a smirk, eyeing Naruto up and down.

"I found a slave causing trouble in the isolation ward," Naruto replied, maintaining the charade.

The tall and skinny mage nodded approvingly. "Good work. We can't have any rebellious slaves running amok in the tower."

As Naruto stood there, he noticed the large lacrima in the middle of the room, emanating a mysterious voice. It was clear that the true power in the room lay with whoever spoke from within it.

"About those scrolls, we found," the fat mage began, "I believe they contain some powerful magic. It would be a shame to let them go to waste."

"Yes, indeed," agreed the tall and skinny mage. "And that ring we confiscated from that slave earlier, it seems quite valuable. We could make a nice profit selling it."

At the mention of the ring, Naruto's heart skipped a beat. He knew that the ring belonged to him, a precious memento of his mother. Anger flared within him, but he held his composure.

"You fools," the voice from the lacrima boomed suddenly, startling everyone in the room. "Do you not realize the importance of what you possess? Show it to me immediately!"

The fat and short mage scrambled to present the ring, his hands trembling as he held it out for the unseen speaker to inspect.

As the room fell into an uneasy silence, the lacrima's voice echoed once more, resonating with an air of dark authority. "You have no idea what lies within that ring. It holds the power of an ancient clan, the Uzumaki clan, known for their incredible abilities and the wrath they brought upon their enemies."

Naruto's heart pounded in his chest, the revelation sending shockwaves through his entire being. He dared not make any sudden movements, fearing that even the slightest hint of surprise might give away his true identity.

"The Uzumaki clan," the fat mage stammered, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. "I-I thought they were wiped out in the Great War."

The same voice emanated with a sinister chuckle. "Oh, indeed, many thought that. But there were a few survivors, hidden away in the shadows, preserving their bloodline and their secrets. And it seems you have stumbled upon one of them."

The tall and skinny mage swallowed hard, his eyes darting nervously between Hades and his fat buddy. "What do you want us to do, Lord Hades?"

"For now, keep the slave under close watch," Hades commanded. "And make sure nothing happens to that ring. It could prove to be quite useful in our plans."

The fat and short mage nodded vigorously. "Of course, Lord Hades. We will ensure everything is prepared for your arrival. Will you be commanding Grimoire Heart's ship here?"

"No, I will send one of our kin."

With that, Hades' presence faded from the lacrima, leaving the room filled with tension and uncertainty.

As the leaders continued their discussion, Naruto's mind raced with new questions and a burning desire to uncover the truth. He knew that time was of the essence, and he needed to act quickly to ensure the safety of the other slaves and escape from the tower.


[Next Day]

Naruto stood on the rooftop of the tower, his clones moving stealthily below, each one assigned a specific task to prepare for the upcoming revolt. The cool breeze ruffled his hair, and he couldn't help but look back on his time in this wretched place.

He looked down at his cellmates working in the fields trying to compensate for his absence. It had been just yesterday when he was taken away to the isolation ward. All of them looked a little disoriented by his absence but Sorano seemed to have lost the usual haughtiness she possessed. He hoped she would return to her usual self soon enough.

Over the months, he had learned to survive and adapt in the Tower of Heaven. His interactions with his cellmates had been a mix of frustration and camaraderie. Zabrock and Erik's negativity had often annoyed him, but he tried to tune them out and focus on the bigger picture.

Richard and Sawyer, on the other hand, had been a source of inspiration for Naruto. Their dreams and determination to achieve them had struck a chord with him. He admired their tenacity and silently wished for their success, hoping they would find their freedom someday.

Macbeth's insomnia worried Naruto. The toll of constant sleep deprivation on the boy's mind was evident, and Naruto tried to comfort and support him as best as he could. The sounds in the tower haunted Macbeth, and Naruto often found himself patrolling the cell at night to keep him company.

But it was Angel who had become his confidante and the closest thing to a friend in this desolate place. Naruto shared his knowledge of celestial spirits with her and promised to help her find her little sister. In return, she had earned his trust.

Despite the occasional conflicts with Zabrock, Naruto refused to let his spirits waver. He had a mission to complete, and nothing would distract him from it. His clones had retrieved his sealing supplies, and he had carefully used counter seals to disarm the traps in strategic locations.

Today was different; he sensed it in the air. The tension in the tower had escalated, and rumors of an attempted escape had reached his ears. The guards' reaction to this act of "treason" was harsh, and Naruto couldn't bear the thought of someone being tortured for seeking freedom.

He knew he had to act quickly, strike while the iron was hot. He was going to save the girl caught in the jaws of the cult's punishment.

He would use his clones to create a diversion and chaos, making sure the guards were distracted. Then, he would use Ascalon, to deal with any opposition.

With his face concealed by his costume, Naruto would become the shadow in the chaos, taking out the guards swiftly and silently. He had learned from his shinobi training, and he would put it to use now.

As the minutes ticked away, he felt a surge of adrenaline rushing through his veins. He had planned meticulously, but he knew that nothing ever went exactly as planned. The unknown variables were always there, but he couldn't afford to hesitate.

This was his chance to not only rescue the girl but to set the wheels in motion for a revolt. To sow the seeds of rebellion among the slaves and show them that they could fight back against their oppressors.


[Inside The Tower]

In the dimly lit corridor, the young girl with scarlet hair continued to cry, her body trembling with fear and exhaustion. The group of people around her watched with concern and sadness, all feeling the weight of their harsh reality.

A girl with brown hair and cat-like features wiped tears from her eyes as she spoke softly, "Erza... you're back... Thank goodness."

The boy with black hair, supporting a younger boy, looked at Erza with a mixture of relief and worry. "You scared us, Erza," he said, his voice tinged with concern.

The older boy, with a body shaped in geometric figures, held onto the pants of the old man with the long white beard, who sat in a cross-legged position. His face showed a mix of emotions as he gazed at the red-haired girl. "It's alright, Erza. We're glad you made it back safely."

Erza's tears continued to flow as she sobbed, "I-I'm sorry, Rob-jii-san. Because of me, Jellal had to go through all of this!"

The guard holding her laughed hysterically, cruelly mocking the group's distress. "HAHAHAHAH! Do you think the boy's gonna make it out alive, old coot? You just need to count your days, that boy will die today. You can apologize to him in the afterlife."

Erza's emotions erupted, and with unexpected strength, she forced her hands apart, breaking free from the guard's grip. She turned around and delivered a powerful punch to the guard's face, sending him stumbling backwards to the ground.

The other guards reacted with anger, one of them raising his magic staff to strike at Erza. However, another guard, who had been silently observing everything, swiftly intervened. He drew a crimson-sheathed sword and sliced through the guard's arm, causing blood to spurt from the wound.

Silence enveloped the corridor as everyone watched the scene in shock. The other guards lay unconscious on the ground, and the slaves working nearby were frozen in fear, witnessing the lone figure standing amidst the chaos.

The figure wore a white cloak and a bandanna covering his entire face, revealing only his bright azure blue eyes, which held a mix of playfulness and seriousness. Despite his seemingly childlike build, there was an air of power and authority about him.

"Ew! Your blood is so disgusting! Ascalon is going to vomit fire for sure this time!" a childish voice sounded from within the guard's helmet, expressing disdain for the spilt blood. In a flash of smoke, the guard vanished.

The figure with the white cloak approached the group, his eyes still fixed on Erza. His presence exuded both mystery and confidence. "So, it seems the task is complete. I wonder if I should report this to the boss now," he mused aloud.

The guard who had been hit by Erza's punch stuttered, his voice trembling with fear, "W-Who the hell are you?"

The figure chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Names don't matter right now," he replied enigmatically.

Erza, still shaken but finding a spark of hope, looked at the mysterious figure and asked with a mix of curiosity and desperation, "Can you help us escape? Please!"

The boy grinned under his bandanna. "Escape, you say? Well, I guess I can't resist a little adventure. But first, let's get you all to safety. Follow me!"

"Thank you, young man! From the moment I saw you, I had a feeling you were up to something, but I wasn't sure if it was for good or bad," the old man, named Rob, said with relief.

Tears of joy welled up in the eyes of the captives. They didn't fully comprehend what was going on, but the prospect of freedom overwhelmed them with happiness.

Yet, some among them worried about their companion, Jellal, who was trapped on the top floor. The red-haired girl, Erza, spoke with unwavering determination, "I won't leave without Jellal! I'll go with you to the top floor."

The figure considered the request. "Alright, only the mage, Rob, can come with me. The rest of you head out to the boarding ships."

Erza was about to protest, but Rob's reassuring squeeze on her shoulder silenced her. Reluctantly, she agreed, putting her trust in her father figure.

As the captives cheered in anticipation of their freedom, Naruto remained vigilant, scanning for any potential threats. The group entered the main hall cautiously, making their way towards the exit.

Naruto stayed behind with Rob, both determined to reach the top floor and rescue Jellal. Suddenly, a magical beam pierced Naruto's skull from behind, causing him to disappear in a puff of smoke.

Amid their newfound hope and the prospect of freedom, the atmosphere in the main hall quickly turned grim as hordes of magic troops and guards flooded in, brandishing their deadly weapons.

"Now that the brat is dead, let's take those traitorous slaves back and make them work until they drop!" one of the magic troops sneered, relishing the opportunity to exert their authority once more.

The slaves, who had moments ago been filled with hope, now felt a deep sense of despair and fear. Erza's group was particularly devastated by the apparent loss of their savior.

Just as the troops prepared to launch a deadly spell at Erza, Rob swiftly intervened, positioning himself protectively in front of her. With a burst of energy, he cast a reflective spell to defend everyone in the vicinity.

The magic spells collided with the barrier of Rob's protection, causing a dazzling display of light and power. Rob could feel the strain on his old body as he channeled all his remaining magic power, which was essentially his life force, into the defense.

Facing the encroaching darkness of death, Rob glanced back at Erza, his eyes filled with love and determination. As his life force began to fade, he spoke his final words to his beloved charge, "I may be old, and my magic may not be as strong as it once was, but I still have enough to protect my friends! I will not let you kill anyone anymore!"

Summoning every ounce of his remaining strength, Rob controlled the fire around him, transforming it into a blazing inferno. With a resolute shout, he sent the fiery onslaught back towards the magic troops.

"I never thought I could see a smile like that in a place like this…," Rob's fading voice echoed through the hall, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present," …freedom is in your heart!"

Erza's grief and rage were overwhelming. Witnessing her father figure dissolve into specks of light, she felt an unprecedented surge of magic power within her. A large magic seal materialized beneath her, and the swords scattered around the hall floated up and levitated around her in a mesmerizing dance.

" Gaaahhh", In a heart-wrenching scream of agony and determination, Erza's magic powers surged to unprecedented levels. The swords she controlled became her deadly projectiles, launched with precision and fury at the approaching guards.

The blonde kid in their group, sensing the immense power emanating from Erza, exclaimed with joy and renewed hope, "Magic...Nee-san just unlocked Magic!" The sight of the guards being swiftly decimated by Erza's newly awakened power filled everyone with awe and renewed determination.

Beside the blonde kid, the black-haired child observed Erza's prowess with a mixture of admiration and slight sadness, knowing that the price of their freedom had come at the cost of their beloved Rob-ji-san's life.


[Near the Meeting room]

Naruto pursued the magical signatures of the cult leaders he had encountered in the meeting room. Although the timing seemed off, the leaders seemed to have lost in the drowning magical pressure surrounding the tower.

Several magic signatures seemed to be exerting their powers over different parts of the structure. It startled him with their sudden appearance but the most shocking part of the situation was the presence of a familiar figure among the contesting magical entities.

He dashed along the towering walls of the fortress, his senses honed to track down the elusive presence of Ultear, who was rapidly getting away. Determined to intercept her before she vanished completely, he pushed his speed to the limit and leapt upwards, aiming to cut her off.

However, just as he was about to continue his pursuit, a sudden crimson blur burst through the upper floor, comically colliding with him. "Whoa!" he yelped as he tumbled through the air, entangled with the red-haired girl he had encountered earlier.

Mid-air acrobatics saved him from an embarrassing crash as he regained his balance and managed to catch the unconscious girl in a bridal hold. Hovering in the sky, he couldn't help but be captivated by the girl's stunning red hair, a striking resemblance to his kaa-chan's.

His attention quickly shifted from her appearance to the state she was in. He observed the magical power surrounding her and the sword clenched in her hand. It dawned on him that she was the one who had unknowingly completed his incomplete task.

Yet, his smile faded into concern as he noticed her bruised and battered condition. The exertion of her magical power had drained her significantly, and without immediate treatment, she could suffer severe or even fatal damage.

A large and ominous presence lurked into the sky. Naruto failed to see any signs of enemies in the vicinity but he knew that not only the new magical signature but a mysterious and highly dangerous power was approaching.

He just hoped everyone had already left with the ships as he had planned.

I

Casting a glance upwards, he realized that Ultear's presence had vanished, leaving him no choice but to prioritize the red-haired girl's safety. With determination, he decided to assist her first before investigating the sudden appearance and disappearance of Ultear.

Carrying the girl gently in his arms, Naruto flew away from the fortress, searching for a safe place to lay her down. His heart ached as he saw her in such a vulnerable state, and the memories of his own loved ones flashed before him. He couldn't bear to let another person suffer when he had the power to help.

Finally finding a secluded spot, Naruto gently laid the girl down, making sure she was comfortable.


[A day later]

As Erza slowly woke from her slumber, she was met with a splitting headache and sore muscles that made any movement unbearable. The warm glow of a blanket and the crackling sound of a nearby fireplace indicated that she was safe, but her surroundings were a blur. Attempting to sit up and assess the situation, she soon found her strength failing, causing her to collapse back onto the makeshift bed.

Suddenly, the chirping of birds and the sound of wings flapping caught her attention, drawing her gaze to a boy sitting on a log across the fire. He seemed to be feeding rice ball pieces to the birds, exuding a sense of calm and familiarity. Despite her grogginess, Erza's instincts sensed that she had met this boy before.

As the boy noticed her waking, he greeted her with a cheerful voice, "Oh! You're awake. You were out for about half a day. How are you feeling by the way?"

"E-Erza..." , Erza, still feeling half-asleep, managed to mumble her name and inquire about the boy's identity in return.

"I am Naruto Namikaze. But you're….," he started with a playful tone before noticing the sudden change in Erza's expression. Her eyes filled with horror and tears spilled down her cheeks. Naruto quickly realized that something he said triggered her distress.

Erza's memories of the past two days rushed back to her in a torrent of emotions. The failed escape attempt, the punishments they endured, the mysterious savior, and the tragic loss of her dear friends, Rob and Jellal, all came crashing down on her.

Unable to hold back her tears, Erza buried her face in her arms, trying to shield herself from this stranger who witnessed her vulnerability.

Naruto remained silent, giving her space to process her emotions. He knew that sometimes people needed time to sort through their feelings and thoughts, especially after experiencing such traumatic events. He felt a pang of empathy, recalling the pain he had felt when his own village was destroyed and the people who sacrificed themselves to protect him.

As Erza continued to cry and mumble incoherently, Naruto gently approached her trembling figure, coming into her view. He knew that words alone couldn't heal her wounds, but he hoped to offer some comfort.

"Don't cry, Don't be sad. Those who sacrifice themselves for us are expecting something from us…", Naruto spoke softly, offering his perspective on loss and remembrance,"…They place all their hope and faith in us, entrusting us with their dreams. To honor their sacrifice, we must carry on and live a life that would make them proud,"

Erza looked up at him, her tear-filled eyes locking onto his. She felt warmth spreading through her heart, a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. His charming smile brought a sense of solace that she desperately needed in that moment. She couldn't fully comprehend why she found comfort in this boy, but she accepted the feeling with open arms.

With a genuine smile, she nodded in gratitude, feeling her spirits lift slightly in response to his words.

Yet, as she listened closely to his last sentence, a jolt of realization struck her. Memories of Rob's words to the cloaked figure resurfaced, and everything suddenly became clear. Her eyes widened in astonishment, and her voice caught in her throat. Tears welled up again as she stared at Naruto, connecting the dots.

"Thanks, young lad. When I saw you for the first time, I knew you were up to something, but I wasn't sure if it was a good or bad thing."

It all clicked for Erza, and the pieces fell into place. Her surprise and gratitude mingled with the sorrow of their losses, creating a maelstrom of emotions within her. She looked at Naruto's face carefully, trying to comprehend the significance of this revelation.

"I-I understand now... You were the one who saved us, weren't you?" Erza managed to utter, her voice choked with emotion.

Naruto's face showed signs of panic, realizing that his attempt to console her had perhaps backfired. "Oi, what happened? I didn't mean to make you sad. I just wanted to cheer you up!" he exclaimed, his own self-doubt creeping in.

However, despite the initial wave of emotions, a sense of gratitude and admiration began to take root in Erza's heart. Her tears were now a mixture of sadness and appreciation for the boy who had come to their rescue and remained by her side during her darkest moment.

"No, it's not that... It's just... thank you," Erza said, her voice steadier now. "Thank you for saving us and for helping me through this. You remind me so much of someone dear to me."

As she spoke, she felt a newfound connection with Naruto, sensing that their paths were intertwined in ways she couldn't yet comprehend. The flames of gratitude and curiosity burned within her, urging her to learn more about the enigmatic boy who had shown her such kindness in her time of need.

Naruto handed Erza some rice balls, he gently began to unravel the dirty bandages covering her injured eye. Erza winced, hesitating to reveal her damaged eye to anyone, but eventually complied, trusting Naruto's intentions.

" Water Arts: Sacred Cure," he murmured softly, channeling his water slayer magic's healing abilities to the best of his ability. The wound hadn't been properly treated, but Naruto was determined to help her and prevent any infection.

A warm and soothing energy coursed through Erza's body, a stark contrast to her chaotic and energetic magic. She found comfort in Naruto's gentle touch and healing magic, feeling her pain ease away with each passing moment.

"You know, you shouldn't cry. I don't like seeing girls with red hair cry. It hurts my heart," Naruto confessed, his voice carrying a nostalgic and bittersweet tone. His azure eyes bore a tinge of sadness, hinting at the sorrows he carried within.

He continued, praising Erza for her bravery and the way she had stood up for her friends when his clone had died. "I admire such strength, and to be honest, I envy you for your ability to help your friends. I always bring misery to everyone around me," he added with a solemn tone.

Erza blushed furiously, her face nearly as red as her hair, captivated by Naruto's deep blue eyes and his vulnerable confession. She felt a strong desire to console him and let him know that he was not alone.

"No! You haven't caused misery to me. You inspired me. You are strong despite being so young, and you've helped me too. So don't be so hard on yourself. I think you're a wonderful person and you should treat yourself with kindness too," Erza spoke with a soft and caring voice, a stark contrast to her usual fear-filled or commanding demeanor.

Naruto looked up, meeting her gaze full of sincerity. Her words touched him deeply, and a genuine smile tugged at his lips. For a brief moment, he felt a glimmer of hope, knowing that he had someone who saw the good in him.

The conversation took a lighter turn as Erza asked about their plans now that they had achieved freedom.

"I've got no idea. What about you?" Naruto inquired back.

Naruto admitted he had no idea, prompting Erza to facepalm in a comical yet affectionate manner.

"I am going to join a wizard guild named Fairy Tail. Rob-jii-san told me about all of his adventures there. He said they are all great people and treat their members like family. So, I'm going to join this guild!" Erza exclaimed joyfully, her eyes shining with childlike innocence that her harsh past had often stifled.

Naruto couldn't help but feel a bittersweet tug at his heart when she mentioned the word "family." He had lost his family long ago, but seeing Erza's excitement about joining a guild that would become her new family stirred something within him. It reminded him of the warmth and bond he once had and the hope of finding something similar.

He pondered for a moment before deciding that he shouldn't let a girl like Erza go on this journey alone. After all, his father had entrusted him with looking after young ones like her. And yes, there was an odd familiarity about being around her, reminiscent of the feelings he had towards his seliah, it was like they shared memories from their past.

But he quickly dismissed such thoughts, convincing himself that he was doing this out of kindness and nothing more. He decided to accompany her to Fairy Tail, not to join the guild immediately, but to ensure she was safe and to explore this place that seemed nice.

"It's settled then! Eat up so that we can hit the road to Fairy Tail! This place sounds intriguing," Naruto declared, producing more rice balls and pulling out two white cloaks from his pack.

Erza looked up at him with a mixture of happiness and excitement. Somehow, the idea of being together with him brought her immense joy, and her heart fluttered with anticipation.

As they embarked on this new journey together, little did they know that their bond would grow stronger, and their destinies would intertwine in ways they could never have imagined.


[Months Later]

At the outskirts of the picturesque port town of Hargeon, two cloaked figures strolled along a narrow road, surrounded by lush trees. Erza Scarlet and Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze were on their way to the town, their cloaks swaying gently in the wind.

One of them seemed at ease, while the other appeared visibly awkward, struggling with the unfamiliarity of the cloak that shrouded her body. Erza found the cloak cumbersome and restrictive, but she kept her discomfort to herself, well aware of their current financial constraints that prevented her from buying new clothes.

Naruto noticed Erza's unease but remained silent, keeping his focus ahead. Despite the quietude, their journey had been eventful in its own way. Naruto had taken the opportunity to impart some of his knowledge about magic and swords to Erza, and he was genuinely impressed by her aptitude and control. While her magic might not have reached the level of Ultear's, he observed her potential and her remarkable physical strength.

As they approached the bustling town, Naruto began to feel restless. He was a spirited and energetic individual, unaccustomed to wandering aimlessly without a specific goal. Although he appreciated peace, he craved purpose and excitement. The current situation, devoid of any mission or task, did not align with his usual demeanor. Nonetheless, he suppressed his restlessness, mindful of Erza's company and their shared journey.

Lost in his musings, Naruto failed to notice Erza stopping in front of a shop named 'Heart Kreuz.' He walked a few paces ahead before finally realizing Erza's absence. Turning back, he found her standing entranced by the store's contents.

'Heart Kreuz' offered a selection of armors and swords, catering to the needs of mages. While not extravagant, the products were sturdy and of decent quality, reflecting the store's reputation as a reliable establishment.

Naruto knew of Erza's profound affection for swords and her perception of armor as not just physical protection but also a source of mental comfort. Her fascination with these items was unmistakable, and he decided that a small gift wouldn't hurt.

"Hey. Are you interested in that one, or should we check out other options too, Erza?" Naruto queried, approaching her from behind.

Erza was taken aback by his sudden appearance, snapping out of her daze. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment at being caught in her reverie.

Quickly dismissing the idea of purchasing anything due to financial concerns, she shook her head. "No! No need. We should save our money until we reach the guild. And you need not trouble yourself with such matters, Naruto"

Naruto snorted playfully, dismissing her protest. "Nonsense, something you're so passionate about isn't trivial at all. We're friends now, and it's only natural for me to care about your interests. As for money, don't worry, it's covered."

Erza looked down, avoiding his gaze as she pondered her decision. Whenever Naruto spoke so kindly, she found it difficult to refuse. Besides, she genuinely longed for a set of armor that would make her feel more at ease than the confining cloak.

In a nearly imperceptible nod, she agreed, and Naruto beamed at her, delighted by her acceptance. With a warm smile, he assured her, "Great! Let's go inside then."

At the entrance of the cozy shop 'Heart Kreuz,' Naruto and Erza were greeted by the shopkeeper, who seemed taken aback by their youthful appearances.

"Oh, welco-WAIT! Aren't you two a little too young to be here?" the shopkeeper started to greet but couldn't help but voice his skepticism.

Naruto, used to such reactions, waved him off casually and pointed towards Erza as he replied, "We get that a lot. But are you trying to imply that you don't have anything for her?"

The shopkeeper hesitated for a moment before responding, "Of course we have. But we don't have that many things suited for such a young lady."

Unfazed, Naruto brushed it off, saying, "Alright, it doesn't matter. As long as it is magically conductive, and strong, and Erza likes it, everything is fine."

Prompted by Naruto, Erza followed the shopkeeper further into the store to explore the available armors. Meanwhile, Naruto took the opportunity to read a sealing scroll and contemplate his own future. Though he was excited about the prospect of joining Fairy Tail, he couldn't shake the feeling that his next mission might hinder his plans.

While he waited, Naruto glanced up to observe Erza, who was deep in thought about her choice of armor. He couldn't help but be impressed by her transformation from a former slave to a determined mage, now adorning silver armor with the Heart Kreuz emblem, accompanied by a blue skirt, black boots, and diamond-shaped earrings. She was a living testament to strength and resilience.

As Erza finally emerged from the shop with her new armor, Naruto admired her appearance and complimented her, "It looks nice. Now carry on. I'll be coming after you once I pay."

With that, Naruto headed to the counter to settle the payment, leaving Erza to explore the town. She wondered how they would go about finding Fairy Tail but was soon greeted with an unexpected stroke of luck.

Just as she muttered to herself, "Now how do we look for the guild?" two civilians passing by engaged in a conversation about Fairy Tail.

"Oi, did you hear? A Fairy Tail mage destroyed half a city while fighting a dark guild." the first one exclaimed.

"Really! They always go overboard. One day they sure are going to get disbanded for doing so much damage," the second chimed in, and they shared a hearty laugh.

Erza couldn't help but grimace at the thought of her dream guild being associated with such destruction, while Naruto saw this as a golden opportunity to inquire about Fairy Tail's whereabouts.

Excusing himself politely, Naruto approached the men and asked, "Excuse me, but do you know where Fairy Tail is?"

The men were puzzled by the question coming from two seemingly young children, but they kindly provided directions, cautioning, "Sure, but why do you wanna know, kid? Although I don't know if they take in kids, if you wanna go there, take a train to Magnolia, and you can easily ask anyone to point out the guild."

Erza and Naruto exchanged knowing nods, their determination firm. Without hesitation, they headed towards the train station and quickly boarded a train to Magnolia.

On the train, Naruto shared his colorful vocabulary with Erza, referring to the vehicle as a "bucket of bolts," much to her amusement and bewilderment.

As the train chugged along, Erza couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement and anticipation. Her dream of joining Fairy Tail was finally taking shape, and she was filled with gratitude towards her new companion, Naruto, whose friendship had brought new meaning to her journey.


[Magnolia]

Naruto and Erza stood outside the grand guildhall of Fairy Tail, their expressions contrasting. Naruto wore a nonchalant facade, but inside, he couldn't shake his wariness. In his village, any guild, be it light or dark, was not well-regarded, and the magic council itself was seen as a dangerous organization. Erza, on the other hand, felt a mix of excitement and anxiety.

The guildhall before them was an imposing structure, a blend of architectural styles that made it both unique and striking. Its pagoda-like shape had three floors, each smaller than the one below it, topped with long arched tiles resembling a real pagoda. The highest roof held a round, pointed dome, while a banner with Fairy Tail's symbol adorned the middle one. Stylized heart shapes adorned the frames of large pentagonal windows on each floor, adding a touch of charm to the building.

Gathering their courage, Naruto and Erza opened the guildhall's gate and were met with an unexpected scene. Chaos ensued inside, with people engaged in a wild fight. Chairs and tables flew through the air, giving an air of unrestrained camaraderie. Despite the mayhem, a short old man sitting on the bar with a drink appeared unperturbed, as if he was accustomed to such a scene.

"AH! Whoever threw a chair at me, show yourself, you coward!" someone shouted amid the ruckus.

Naruto was momentarily taken aback, but he soon recomposed himself and scanned the surroundings. Near the counter, a waitress stood composed, and beside her was the short old man, seemingly enjoying his drink without a care for the chaos around him.

Turning his attention to the other end of the room, Naruto spotted two kids, not much older than themselves, engrossed in a card game. One was a girl with brown hair tied in ponytails, wearing an orange bikini and brown knee-length pants with sandals. The other was a boy with dark blue hair and black eyes, who bizarrely sat at the table in only his boxers. Naruto couldn't help but wonder why anyone would choose such an outfit in a guild full of mages.

He quickly shifted his gaze away from the strange sight and approached the short old man with Erza by his side. Naruto decided to put his mischievous side to use and couldn't resist teasing the elder.

"Hello! You seem to be the old-timer around here. You have more magic too. So, please, can you tell us who the master of this guild is?" Naruto questioned, adding a playful jab. Teasing old people had become one of his favorite pastimes during his time with Ablaze.

The old man, Makarov Dreyar, who happened to be the master of Fairy Tail, frowned in annoyance, while Erza reprimanded Naruto with a swift smack on the head, "Don't be mean to him, Naruto. Apologize now!"

Naruto chuckled mischievously and stuck out his tongue, further irritating Erza. Meanwhile, Makarov, despite his annoyance, nodded for Erza's politeness.

"Now, the girl seems to be the polite one out of you. As for your question, I am the master of this guild. My name is Makarov Dreyar, the third master of Fairy Tail!" Makarov replied, his surprise evident that Naruto could sense his magic. It was a rarity for people to acknowledge his strength due to his small stature.

"I, Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze, and my friend Erza are looking to join your guild. Can you please tell us about the test to ensure our entry?" Naruto's tone turned serious, and Erza couldn't help but feel a little nervous as she awaited Makarov's response.

Makarov, an extremely short and elderly man with black eyes and a thick white mustache, raised a brow at Naruto's change in demeanor. He was intrigued by the sight of two newcomers, clad in cloaks and armor, with the girl even wearing an eye patch. He couldn't help but wonder about their background and origins.

Without skipping a beat, Makarov replied, "Alright! You can join in. Where do you want your guild mark, and in which color?"

Erza was taken aback by the seemingly simple acceptance. "J-Just like that? You are going to let us join without even asking what kind of magic we use?" she asked in disbelief.

"I don't need to ask. I can sense your magic. You have a pretty large reserve for someone your age, while the boy seems to have none at all! Nonetheless, I will find out about your magic over time," Makarov said, surprising even himself as he sensed some faint magic emerging from Naruto.

Erza looked at Makarov like he was crazy. She couldn't fathom the idea of Naruto not having magic. To her, Naruto was the most powerful mage she had ever encountered, and she admired him like a hero.

Naruto simply smiled innocently while observing Makarov's reactions.

After recovering from his surprise, Makarov took the guild stamp and approached Erza. "Just tell me why you want to join the guild?" he inquired.

Erza's eyes filled with sadness as she replied, "I was told about your guild by Rob-jii-san, one of your friends. He took care of me like a father, and I want to join this guild so that I can be linked to him forever."

Makarov recognized the longing in her eyes and felt a pang of sadness. It seemed he wouldn't get a chance to meet one of his old friends again. However, he decided he would inquire about the events that transpired later.

With a soft smile, he stamped a blue guild mark on her upper left arm. He then turned to Naruto, standing silently beside her, and asked the same question wordlessly.

"I just wish to know if you have any more rules or conditions for joining," Naruto asked without directly answering the unspoken question.

Makarov replied sternly, "Only one, no killing!"

Naruto's expression fell, and he cast his eyes downward in shame. "Then I guess I can't join you. I have killed before, so it goes against your motto," he confessed sadly.

As Naruto's bitter reply echoed through the guild, a heavy silence enveloped the room. All eyes turned towards the ten-year-old boy, some with shock, others with fear. The idea of a young child having taken someone's life was incomprehensible and horrifying to them. They couldn't help but see him as a potential threat, a monster in their midst.

Naruto noticed the familiar look of fear and mistrust in their eyes, and a sense of desolation washed over him. It seemed that no matter where he went, he would always be judged and rejected because of his past actions. He understood why people reacted this way, but it still hurt deeply.

Makarov's thoughts were conflicted as he observed Naruto. On one hand, he felt sympathy for the boy, knowing that such a burden at a young age would have a profound impact on him. On the other hand, he couldn't ignore the potential dangers that Naruto's unique abilities and past actions posed to the guild.

Makarov observed Naruto's remorseful demeanor and couldn't help but feel a sense of compassion for the young boy. He knew there was more to his story, and he decided to give Naruto a chance. "The no-killing rule is essential, but it doesn't mean you can't atone and change. I see potential in you, Naruto. Join us, and let Fairy Tail help you become the person you want to be," Makarov offered, his voice gentle yet firm.

With hope in his eyes, Naruto nodded in gratitude.

Erza, who had initially been upset and confused, now looked at Naruto with a sense of pride and admiration. She had been hesitant before, but seeing her friend being accepted into the guild made her feel joy and relief.

As Naruto received his guild mark, placed on his left arm as he requested, Makarov affectionately ruffled his hair, much to Naruto's playful annoyance. Laughter and camaraderie filled the guild hall as a new chapter in Naruto's life began.

However, Naruto's serious expression soon returned as he felt this was the right time to ask for a favor from his guildmates. Everyone focused on him, intrigued by his determined demeanor.

"Can you guys do me a favor?", Naruto paused for a moment, feeling nervous.


[Author's Note]

I don't know why but the story seems to have been received negatively. All criticism is over the power leveling of a 10- year old. Admittedly, some think he's too strong others say I've portrayed him to be weaker.

There are thousand's of people reading and having regular interaction on quite literally trash stories with no substance to them, but when I try to write a plot and, admitteldy fail to deliver my best despite giving my all, its just dry cope and hate in pms.

I just don't understand this behaviour and I'm not hating or targeting anyone, but its just that I am confused. Is it some sort of trend here?

Well anyway, if you care read, comment and do all sorts of stuff.

If not, then just leave and don't pm me with negativity if you don't have anything useful to tell me.