A/N

Wow, I'm pleasantly surprised by the amount of feedback received. I honestly didn't expect this level of interest. While this won't be an extensive story, I believe it will be an enjoyable read.

As mentioned, there will be significant events from both the past and future, with each timeline offering something unique.

I hope you enjoy this chapter.

It's a bit longer than usual!

Chapter 2 - Alive

Two more years slipped by in a blur of moments, each one a precious opportunity for Naruto to cherish the time he had with his family. As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, a sense of normalcy settled over their lives, like a comforting blanket wrapped around them.

And amidst it all, Ai Hoshino's star continued to rise, her talent and charisma captivating audiences around the world. With each new role, each dazzling performance, she solidified her place as one of the brightest stars in the entertainment industry.

It was a sight to behold, watching his mother's career soar to new heights, her name whispered in hushed tones of admiration and awe. And as Naruto stood on the sidelines, a proud smile on his face, he couldn't help but marvel at the woman she had become.

But amidst the glitz and glamour of fame, Naruto never lost sight of what truly mattered the love and bond shared between him and his family. For in the end, it was the simple moments, the quiet moments spent together, that held the most meaning.

The kindergarten buzzed with excitement over the upcoming dance event, Naruto, Aqua, and Ruby joined their classmates in eager anticipation. But when the teacher announced the news, Ruby's reaction took them all by surprise. With tears streaming down her cheeks, she bolted out of the classroom, her sobs echoing down the hallway.

Concern etched on their faces, Naruto and Aqua exchanged worried glances before hurrying after their distraught sister. Catching up to her, they gently placed a hand on her shoulder, their voices soft and soothing.

"What's wrong, Ruby?" Naruto asked, his brow furrowed with concern.

Aqua nodded in agreement, his eyes filled with empathy. "Yeah, you seemed really upset. Is there something bothering you?"

Ruby sniffled, wiping away her tears as she struggled to find the words to express her feelings. "I-I'm scared," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know how to dance, and everyone will laugh at me."

Naruto and Aqua exchanged a knowing glance before crouching down to Ruby's level, their expressions gentle and reassuring. "Hey, it's okay," Naruto said, his voice filled with warmth. He placed a comforting hand on Ruby's shoulder, his eyes filled with reassurance, "Remember, our mother is Ai Hoshino. Of course, we can dance!"

Aqua nodded in agreement, a smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, Ai's an amazing dancer," he added. "She'll teach us, and we'll be the best dancers at the event!"

Ruby's eyes widened with hope as she looked at her brothers, a spark of confidence igniting within her. "You really think so?" she asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

Naruto and Aqua nodded in unison, their smiles warm and encouraging. "Absolutely," Naruto replied. "We'll practice together, and by the time the event rolls around, you'll be dancing like a pro!"

With newfound determination, Ruby wiped away her tears, her fears replaced with excitement. "Thank you, Onii-chan" she said, gratitude shining in her eyes. "I believe in us."

Naruto returned to the classroom with his siblings, a sense of determination settled over him like a cloak. Despite the joy of the past two years and the warmth of their family bond, he couldn't shake the weight of his mission—the reason he had been granted a second chance.

In the quiet moments that followed, Naruto's mind raced with thoughts of the impending tragedy. The date of his mother's death loomed on the horizon, a dark cloud threatening to overshadow their newfound happiness.

But Naruto refused to let history repeat itself. Armed with the knowledge of the future, he was determined to rewrite their family's destiny, to protect his loved ones from the pain and suffering that had plagued them before.

With each passing day, Naruto honed his plans, meticulously plotting every move. He would confront their father, Hikaru, and put an end to his reign of terror once and for all. No longer would they live in fear, shackled by the shadows of the past.

As the date drew nearer, Naruto's resolve only grew stronger. He would do whatever it took to ensure his family's safety, to carve out a future where they could live without fear or regret.

Naruto's heart clenched with fury as he recalled the name of his mother's killer Ryosuke, the deranged fan whose obsession had led to her untimely demise. The mere thought of that fateful day sent a shiver down his spine, his eyes darkening with a steely resolve.

He remembered it all too well—the terror in his mother's eyes as she opened the door, the sudden flash of steel as Ryosuke's blade sliced through the air. The image was seared into Naruto's memory, a haunting reminder of the cruelty and senselessness of it all.

But this time would be different. This time, Naruto was prepared. With the knowledge of the future burning bright in his mind, he knew exactly how to stop Ryosuke before he could claim another innocent life.

With each passing moment, Naruto's determination hardened like steel, his thoughts consumed by the singular goal of thwarting his mother's killer. He would be ready when Ryosuke came knocking, armed not just with the strength of his fists, but with the power of his foresight.

And as the days melted away, bringing them ever closer to that fateful moment, Naruto steeled himself for the battle ahead. He would not rest until justice was served, until he had vanquished the darkness that had haunted their lives for far too long.

For Naruto knew that the time for reckoning was drawing near, and he would stop at nothing to ensure that his mother's death would not be in vain. With determination burning bright in his eyes, he swore to himself that this time, Ryosuke would not escape justice.

As the days passed and the date of his mother's death drew nearer, Naruto's nerves were stretched taut like a bowstring, his anxiety mounting with each passing moment. Though he was just a four-year-old child in body, his resolve burned with a fierce intensity that belied his tender age.

With every heartbeat, Naruto's determination grew stronger, his mind consumed by thoughts of protecting his mother at any cost. He knew that he couldn't afford to hesitate, couldn't allow fear to hold him back not when his mother's life hung in the balance.

Even if it meant confronting Ryosuke head-on, even if it meant resorting to violence, Naruto was prepared to do whatever it took to keep his mother safe. No one would hurt her, not this time, not while he still drew breath.

With every fibre of his being, Naruto steeled himself for the battle ahead, his hands clenched into fists as he braced for the inevitable confrontation. He knew that the road ahead would be fraught with danger and uncertainty, but he refused to falter.

For Naruto knew that the love he held for his mother was a force stronger than any weapon, a beacon of light that would guide him through the darkest of nights. And with that love burning bright in his heart, he set out to face his greatest challenge yet the fight to save his mother's life, no matter the cost.

The Hoshino family gathered in the living room, laughter and chatter filled the air, a symphony of joyous voices blending in harmony.

Naruto, sitting cross-legged on the floor, glanced up at his mother with a wide grin. "Kaa-san, are you excited for the concert next week?" he asked eagerly, his eyes shining with anticipation.

Ai's face lit up with a radiant smile as she nodded, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Of course, sweetie! I've been practicing non-stop, and I can't wait to share the stage," she replied, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

Aqua, sprawled out on the couch beside Naruto, chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Yeah, Ai's going to be a superstar!" he exclaimed, a playful twinkle in his eyes.

Ruby, sitting on the floor beside Naruto, nodded enthusiastically. "I can't wait to see you perform, Mama!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement.

Naruto glanced around at his siblings, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. "We're all so proud of you, Kaa-san," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "You've worked so hard for this moment, and we'll be cheering you on every step of the way."

Ai's eyes glistened with emotion as she looked at her children, a wave of gratitude washing over her. "Thank you, my darlings," she said softly, her voice choked with emotion. "Your support mean everything to me. Together, we'll make this concert one to remember."

Naruto cast a furtive glance at Aqua, his expression serious as he leaned in close. "Hey, Aqua, can we talk alone for a second?" he whispered, his voice barely above a hushed murmur.

Aqua, sensing the urgency in Naruto's tone, nodded solemnly, his brow furrowing with concern. "Sure, Naruto," he replied quietly, his eyes darting around to ensure they wouldn't be overheard.

With a shared glance, the two brothers silently slipped away from the bustling living room, sneaking down the hallway to find a quiet corner where they could speak freely.

Once they were safely out of earshot, Naruto turned to Aqua, his gaze intense. "Listen, Aqua," he began, his voice low but determined. "I can't shake this feeling that something bad is going to happen."

Aqua's eyes widened with concern as he listened to his brother's words, a sense of unease settling in the pit of his stomach. "What do you mean, Naruto?" he asked, his voice tinged with apprehension.

Naruto hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts before speaking again. "I think... I think we need to be prepared," he said finally, his voice steady despite the tremor of fear that ran through him. "Whatever happens, we have to stick together and protect Kaa-san at all costs. I won't let anything happen to her, not again."

Aqua's confusion deepened as he listened to Naruto's words, his brow furrowing with uncertainty. "Again?" he echoed, his voice tinged with disbelief. "What do you mean, Naruto? "

Naruto took a deep breath, his gaze unwavering as he met Aqua's stunned expression. "I know it sounds crazy, but it's true," he explained quietly. "I was reborn just like you, but instead of being reborn into another body, I was sent back in time,back to when we were just kids."

Aqua stood there in shock, his mind reeling with disbelief at the revelation. "But... how is that possible?" he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Naruto reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Aqua's shoulder, his expression sombre. "I don't fully understand it myself, but somehow, I have been given a second chance," he said softly. "And with that chance comes a responsibility to change the course of our lives, to protect Kaa-san from the danger that lies ahead."

A flicker of recognition crossed Aqua's face as Naruto's words sank in, confirming what he had long suspected but never dared to voice aloud. "How...?" he began, his voice barely above a whisper, his eyes wide with disbelief.

Naruto met Aqua's gaze head-on, his expression solemn but resolute. "I know, Aqua," he said quietly, his voice tinged with empathy. "I know that you're Gorou Amamiya. I'm from the future, and I remember everything."

Aqua's breath caught in his throat, a mix of emotions swirling within him shock, confusion, but also a strange sense of acceptance. "From the future...?" he repeated, his voice trailing off as he struggled to comprehend the magnitude of Naruto's revelation.

Naruto nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yes," he replied simply. "But right now, the only thing that matters is that at this very moment, we are brothers. And we need to save Kaa-san."

Aqua's eyes softened as he met Naruto's gaze, a sense of determination shining in his eyes. "You're right, Naruto," he said, his voice steady despite the turmoil of emotions swirling within him. "No matter what may have happened in the past, we're here now, together. And together, we'll do whatever it takes to protect Ai."

And with that silent vow between them, Naruto and Aqua stood shoulder to shoulder, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Aqua's gaze was filled with urgency as he turned to Naruto, his voice trembling with anxiety. "So, What's the plan, Naruto?" he asked, his tone tinged with desperation. "What do we do to stop this?"

Naruto's expression was resolute as he met Aqua's eyes, a sense of determination shining in his gaze. "I need you to stay with Kaa-san and Ruby," he said firmly, his voice unwavering. "Keep them safe, no matter what happens."

Aqua's brow furrowed in confusion, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "But Naruto, what about you?" he protested, his concern for his brother outweighing his fear for their mother's safety.

Naruto's jaw clenched with resolve as he spoke, his words measured and deliberate. "I've been waiting for this moment for years," he said quietly, his voice tinged with determination. "And today, I'll finally act on what I've thought about doing over and over."

Aqua's eyes widened with realization as he understood the weight of Naruto's words. "You mean... you're going to confront him?" he asked, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and fear.

Naruto nodded solemnly, his gaze unwavering. "Yes," he replied simply. "I have to. It's the only way to stop him and protect Mom. But I need you to promise me, Aqua, promise me that you'll keep Kaa-san and Ruby safe, no matter what."

Aqua's throat tightened with emotion as he met Naruto's determined stare. "I promise, Naruto," he vowed, his voice filled with conviction. "I'll do whatever it takes to protect them. You can count on me."

And with that solemn vow between them, Naruto and Aqua shared a silent understanding, their bond as brothers stronger than ever. For in the face of danger, they knew that their love and determination would guide them through even the darkest of times.

Before heading back into the Livingroom, Aqua's voice trembled with apprehension as he turned to Naruto once more, his eyes searching his brother's face for answers. "Naruto," he began, his voice barely above a whisper, "who is it? Who's going to... hurt Ai?"

Naruto's expression hardened with resolve as he met Aqua's gaze, his jaw set with determination. "His name is Ryosuke," he replied quietly, his voice tinged with bitterness. "He's a crazed fan who's been obsessed with Kaa-san for years."

Aqua's breath caught in his throat at the mention of the name, his mind reeling with shock and disbelief. "Ryosuke..." he echoed, the name heavy on his tongue. "But why? Why would he do something like this?"

Naruto's eyes darkened with anger as he spoke, his voice tinged with frustration. "Because he's sick, Aqua," he said bitterly. "Sick and twisted, consumed by his obsession with Kaa-san. And now, he's willing to do anything to make sure she's his and his alone."

Aqua's heart clenched with fear as he processed the gravity of the situation.

Naruto and Aqua re-entered the living room, a scene of warmth and love greeted them. Their mother, Ai, stood at the centre of the room, her graceful movements guiding Ruby through the steps of a dance.

Naruto's heart swelled with pride as he watched his mother's gentle guidance, her love for Ruby evident in every gesture. And beside him, Aqua's eyes softened with emotion as he took in the sight, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

For a moment, the worries and fears that had plagued them faded away, replaced by a sense of peace and contentment. In this moment, surrounded by the ones they loved most, everything felt right in the world.

Ai and Ruby danced together, their laughter filling the air, Naruto and Aqua shared a silent understanding. No matter what dangers lay ahead, they would do whatever it took to protect their family and preserve moments like these—moments of joy, love, and unbreakable bonds.

Ai finished teaching Ruby the dance steps, she turned to Naruto and Aqua with a warm smile, her eyes bright with affection. "Do you boys want to join us?" she asked, her voice filled with warmth.

Naruto stifled a yawn, his eyes drooping with exhaustion. "I'm feeling a bit sleepy, Kaa-san," he replied with a sheepish grin, giving Aqua a subtle look.

Aqua caught Naruto's glance and nodded in understanding, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. "I'll join in!" he exclaimed eagerly, rushing over to Ai's side.

Ai laughed, her heart swelling with love for her sons. "That's the spirit, Aqua!" she exclaimed, pulling him into the dance with a playful twirl.

Naruto watched his brother and mother dance together, a sense of warmth and contentment washed over him. Despite the weight of the impending danger that loomed over them, this moment of joy and togetherness was a reminder of what they were fighting to protect.

Naruto closed his eyes and took a deep breath, a sense of resolve settled over him like a cloak. He glanced at the clock, noting the time with grim determination. It was time.

Leaving the warmth of the living room behind him, Naruto made his way to the front door, each step echoing with purpose. This was the moment he had been preparing for, the moment that would define their future.

With every fibre of his being, Naruto steeled himself for the confrontation that lay ahead. He knew the danger that awaited him on the other side of that door, but he refused to falter. For the sake of his family, for the sake of his mother, he would confront Ryosuke head-on and put an end to the threat once and for all.

As he reached for the door handle, Naruto's heart pounded in his chest, adrenaline coursing through his veins. This was it the moment of truth. With a steady hand and unwavering resolve, Naruto flung open the door, ready to face whatever awaited him on the other side.

For in this moment, he knew that the fate of his family hung in the balance, and he would stop at nothing to protect them. With every breath, every step, Naruto marched forward, determined to rewrite the future and carve out a path to safety and redemption.

As Naruto walked down the corridor, memories of his past life flashed through his mind like fragments of a shattered mirror. He couldn't help but marvel at the twists and turns that had led him to this moment—how had his life changed so much?

In his first life, he had been Naruto Uzumaki, the Hero of the Leaf, a shinobi who had fought tirelessly to protect his village and his friends. But even heroes were not immune to fate, and Naruto had met his end at the hands of Kaguya, the ancient being who sought to rewrite reality itself.

And then, inexplicably, he had been reborn as Naruto Hoshino, a seemingly ordinary boy living in a world far removed from the ninja villages and battles of his past. Yet even in this new life, tragedy had found him, as he had faced death once again, only to be granted a second chance a chance to go back in time and rewrite the course of his destiny.

It was a story straight out of an anime a tale of loss, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of hope in the face of despair. But as Naruto sat down and waited for Ryosuke to appear, he knew that this time, things would be different.

Armed with the knowledge of his past lives and the determination to protect his family at all costs, Naruto was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. For in this moment, sitting alone in the corridor, he understood that his journey was far from over. And no matter how many times fate sought to test him, he would never give up not until he had rewritten the tragic story of his life and emerged victorious against all odds.

Naruto heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps approaching, his heart pounded with a mixture of anticipation and dread. He glanced down the stairs and saw Ryosuke ascending, a bouquet of flowers clutched tightly in his hand.

Locking eyes with the man who had caused so much pain and suffering, Naruto felt a surge of anger and determination wash over him. This was the moment he had been waiting for the moment to confront his mother's killer and put an end to the threat once and for all.

With every step Ryosuke took, Naruto's resolve hardened. He stood tall at the top of the stairs, his gaze unwavering as he met Ryosuke's eyes for the first time.

In that moment, time seemed to stand still as the two adversaries faced each other, locked in a silent battle of wills. Naruto's heart raced with adrenaline as he prepared to confront the man who had threatened everything he held dear.

For Naruto, this was more than just a showdown between two individuals it was a clash of fate, a moment that would determine the course of their lives and the lives of those they loved.

Naruto's voice was steady and resolute as he addressed Ryosuke, his gaze unwavering despite the tension crackling in the air. "I know what you're about to do," he said, his tone firm and commanding.

Ryosuke's expression hardened into a glare, his eyes narrowing with hostility as he met Naruto's gaze. But Naruto remained undeterred, his determination shining brightly in the face of danger.

"You should just turn away now," Naruto continued, his voice tinged with warning. "Before things get messy."

The air between them crackled with tension as Ryosuke stood his ground, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. But Naruto stood tall, his resolve unshakeable as he prepared to face whatever came next.

Naruto's voice softened, a note of pleading entering his tone as he continued to address Ryosuke. "What you're about to do won't make your life any easier," he said, his words carrying the weight of truth and empathy.

He took a step forward, closing the distance between them, his eyes searching Ryosuke's for any sign of understanding. "Ai Hoshino loves all her fans," Naruto continued, his voice tinged with sincerity. "She's brought joy and happiness to countless people, and her love knows no bounds. Would you really take all of that away?"

There was a moment of tense silence as Ryosuke's gaze wavered, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. Naruto held his breath, hoping against hope that his words would reach the man's heart and stay his hand.

But as the seconds stretched on, it became clear that Ryosuke's resolve remained unbroken. With a steely glare, he shook his head, his voice cold and unwavering. "She betrayed everyone by having kids," he spat, his gaze boring into Naruto with unbridled hostility.

Naruto's jaw clenched with anger, his fists tightening at his sides as he met Ryosuke's glare with a steely gaze of his own. "That's not true," he shot back, his voice ringing with defiance. "My mother's love knows no bounds, and neither do mine or my siblings'. We are her family, and nothing you say can change that."

But Ryosuke's words had struck a nerve, and Naruto felt a surge of anger and frustration coursing through him. "You look just like her," Ryosuke continued, his voice laced with venom. "You have Ai's eyes."

Naruto's gaze hardened as he locked eyes with the older man, his own eyes flashing with determination. "And I'll do whatever it takes to protect my family," he vowed, his voice firm and resolute. "Even if it means facing the likes of you."

Ryosuke's maniacal laughter echoed through the corridor, sending shivers down Naruto's spine as he watched the older man's twisted demeanour with growing alarm. His heart pounded with adrenaline as Ryosuke's words filled him with a sense of impending danger.

"I won't stop until she's mine" Ryosuke exclaimed, his voice filled with malicious glee as he made a sudden move towards the stairs, his eyes fixed on Naruto with an unsettling intensity.

With a surge of panic, Naruto turned on his heels and bolted down the corridor, his footsteps echoing loudly against the floor as he raced away from the impending threat. Fear and urgency propelled him forward, each step bringing him closer to his family and the safety of their embrace.

But as he ran, a sense of dread gnawed at his insides, the memory of Ryosuke's crazed laughter echoing in his mind like a haunting refrain. He knew that danger lurked just around the corner, and he couldn't shake the feeling that Ryosuke's sinister intentions posed a grave threat to everything he held dear.

Naruto ducked into a nearby corner, his mind raced with frantic thoughts. He knew that confronting Ryosuke head-on would be a dangerous gamble—he was in a four-year-old's body, and Ryosuke's strength posed a formidable threat. But Naruto was determined to protect his family by any means necessary, even if it meant resorting to desperate measures.

With his heart pounding in his chest, Naruto waited in tense anticipation as Ryosuke drew closer to the apartment. As soon as the older man came within striking distance, Naruto sprang into action with swift and calculated precision.

Emerging from his hiding place, Naruto lunged forward, a makeshift weapon clutched tightly in his hand. With a fierce resolve burning in his eyes, he aimed for Ryosuke's leg, knowing that disabling him would buy precious time to enact his plan.

The makeshift weapon found its mark, sinking into Ryosuke's flesh with a sickening thud. A sharp cry of pain tore from Ryosuke's lips as he stumbled backward, his leg wounded but his rage undiminished.

Despite the fear coursing through his veins, Naruto stood his ground, when Ryosuke's powerful grip closed around Naruto, the young boy's breath caught in his throat, his heart pounding with fear and desperation. Before he could react, Ryosuke's brutal assault began, each blow raining down on Naruto with ferocious intensity.

Naruto cried out in pain as Ryosuke's fists struck him relentlessly, the force of each blow driving him to the ground with bone-jarring impact. Through the haze of pain and confusion, Naruto could hear Ryosuke's deranged screams, his words dripping with possessive rage and twisted obsession.

"Ai is mine, and mine alone!" Ryosuke bellowed, his voice filled with manic fervour. "Her kids don't deserve to be with her they're nothing but obstacles in the way of our love!"

Each word felt like a dagger to Naruto's heart, fuelling his determination to protect his family even as he struggled to withstand the onslaught of Ryosuke's violence. Despite the pain and fear coursing through him, Naruto refused to yield, his spirit unbroken even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

With every ounce of strength he could muster, Naruto fought back against Ryosuke's assault, his fists swinging with desperate resolve. Though he knew he was no match for Ryosuke's brute strength, he refused to give up, determined to buy precious seconds for his family to escape to safety.

Through the haze of pain and chaos, Naruto's thoughts turned to his mother and siblings, his heart swelling with fierce love and protectiveness. He would do whatever it took to keep them safe, even if it meant sacrificing himself in the process. Naruto's vision blurred and his consciousness began to fade, a faint sound echoed in the distance—the unmistakable wail of police sirens drawing nearer with each passing moment. In a panic, Ryosuke's relentless assault came to an abrupt halt, his eyes widening with fear and uncertainty as he glanced around frantically.

With a weak smile playing on his lips, Naruto's voice was barely above a whisper as he spoke, his words laced with determination. "Finally," he murmured, the relief evident in his tone. "I called the police before you arrived."

In that moment of clarity, Naruto realized that his plan had worked, he had bought precious time for his family to escape to safety, even at the cost of his own well-being. Though the pain was excruciating and his body battered and broken, Naruto felt a sense of satisfaction knowing that he had succeeded in protecting those he loved most.

But as darkness threatened to claim him, Naruto's last conscious thought was of his family of their safety and well-being in the face of danger. With a final surge of strength, he held onto the hope that they would find refuge from the storm that threatened to engulf them.

As Ryosuke's panicked gaze met Naruto's, a flicker of fear crossed his face, his resolve crumbling in the face of impending consequences. With a desperate cry, he released his grip on Naruto's battered form, casting him aside like a discarded rag doll.

With one last fleeting glimpse of consciousness, Naruto watched as Ryosuke fled into the darkness, leaving him behind on the cold, unforgiving floor. As unconsciousness claimed him, Naruto's thoughts turned to his family, his heart heavy with worry and hope for their safety in the tumultuous moments that lay ahead.

Naruto's eyelids fluttered open, he found himself in a hospital bed, the sterile scent of antiseptic filling his senses. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he slowly took in his surroundings, his mind still foggy from the ordeal he had endured.

But as his gaze settled on the figure seated beside him, a rush of warmth flooded through him, banishing the lingering shadows of fear and uncertainty. It was his mother, Ai Hoshino, her gentle presence a comforting anchor in the midst of chaos.

With a soft smile, Ai looked up from her vigil, her eyes shining with relief as she met Naruto's gaze. "You're awake," she said, her voice filled with love and concern.

Naruto's heart swelled with emotion at the sight of his mother's familiar face, her presence a beacon of hope in the darkness that had threatened to engulf them. Despite the pain and exhaustion that still lingered, he felt a sense of peace wash over him, knowing that he was safe in her care.

Reaching out a trembling hand, Naruto grasped his mother's gently, the simple touch a testament to the unbreakable bond between them. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of his mother's love. With a grateful smile, Naruto whispered, "I'm okay, Kaa-san," his voice barely above a whisper. "Are you okay? Are you hurt?" he asked, his voice trembling with emotion.

Ai's eyes softened with love as she reached out to brush away the tears that trickled down Naruto's cheeks. "No, sweetheart, I'm fine," she replied, her voice filled with tenderness. "I should be the one checking on you."

Naruto's tears flowed freely now, a mixture of joy and gratitude overwhelming him. He had done it—he had thwarted his father's plans and saved his mother from harm. In that moment, surrounded by his mother's love and warmth, Naruto felt a sense of peace wash over him, the weight of the world lifted from his shoulders.

Wrapping his arms around his mother in a tight embrace, Naruto whispered words of thanks and love, his heart overflowing with gratitude. For in that hospital room, in the embrace of his mother's arms, Naruto knew that he had found his true strength the unbreakable bond of family and the unwavering power of love. And with his mother by his side, there was nothing they couldn't overcome together.

the door to Naruto's hospital room swung open, a wave of familiar voices and laughter filled the air. In walked Aqua and Ruby, their faces lit up with relief and joy as they caught sight of their brother lying in the bed.

Naruto's heart swelled with emotion as he locked eyes with Aqua, a shared smile passing between them—a silent acknowledgment of the bond that held them together through thick and thin.

Beside Aqua and Ruby stood Ichigo and Miyako, their presence a comforting reminder of the strength of their family's love and unity. Together, they formed a formidable wall of support and solidarity, ready to stand by Naruto's side no matter what challenges lay ahead.

As they gathered around Naruto's bedside, their voices filled with warmth and affection, Naruto felt a sense of peace settle over him. In the company of his beloved family, surrounded by their unwavering love and support, he knew that no obstacle was too great to overcome.

With tears of gratitude shimmering in his eyes, Naruto reached out to his siblings, pulling them into a tight embrace. In that moment, as they stood together in the warmth of their shared love, Naruto knew that no matter what trials the future held, they would face them united—as a family, now and always.

Naruto and Aqua found a moment alone together, the gravity of their recent ordeal hung heavy in the air. Naruto's voice was soft but tinged with weariness as he spoke, his words carrying the weight of their shared history.

"It's all done now," Naruto murmured, his gaze fixed on his brother. "We stopped him. We saved Kaa-san."

Aqua's brow furrowed in confusion. "Is that it?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Naruto nodded slowly, a sombre expression crossing his features. "Well, yeah," he replied. "In the future, Kaa-san... she died. And we... we had a really hard time, the three of us."

A heavy silence settled between them as they both grappled with the weight of Naruto's words. The spectre of their mother's death loomed large in their minds, a reminder of the trials they had faced and the sacrifices they had made to protect their family.

But as they stood together in that moment, the bond between them stronger than ever, Naruto and Aqua found solace in the knowledge that they had changed the course of their destiny. They had rewritten the tragic story that had once threatened to tear them apart, forging a new path forward filled with hope and possibility.

Aqua's eyes widened in surprise at Naruto's declaration, a mixture of determination and uncertainty flickering across his features. "What happens now?" he repeated, his voice filled with uncertainty.

Naruto's expression softened, his resolve unwavering as he met Aqua's gaze. "Now," he said, his voice steady and resolute, "we stop our father from hurting anyone else."

With a determined nod, Naruto extended his fist towards Aqua, a silent gesture of solidarity and unity. Aqua hesitated for a moment before returning the gesture, their fists meeting in a brief but powerful connection.

But as their hands came into contact, Naruto's senses were overwhelmed by a sudden surge of energy, a strange and inexplicable sensation coursing through him. In an instant, the world around him seemed to shift and blur, and then...

Suddenly, Naruto found himself in a different place entirely, lying in a bed that was unfamiliar to him. Confusion washed over him as he struggled to make sense of his surroundings, his mind reeling with the suddenness of the change.

As he blinked away the disorientation, Naruto realized that something extraordinary had just occurred a shift in time and space that defied all logic and reason. And as he lay there, trying to piece together what had happened.

Naruto's heart raced with confusion and disbelief as he stood before the mirror, his eyes widening in shock at the reflection that stared back at him. Gone was the face of a child; in its place stood a teenager, his features older and more mature than they had been moments before.

With trembling hands, Naruto reached out to touch his own face, as if to confirm that what he was seeing was real. The sensation of his fingertips against his skin sent a shiver down his spine, a surreal reminder of the inexplicable events that had led him to this moment.

Confusion clouded Naruto's mind as he grappled with the sudden and inexplicable shift in his surroundings. Just moments ago, he had stood beside Aqua, filled with determination and resolve to confront their father and protect their family. And yet, now he found himself back in the future, a place he had fought so hard to escape from.

As he struggled to make sense of this bewildering turn of events, Naruto's thoughts raced, searching for answers that seemed frustratingly out of reach. How had he returned to the future so suddenly, and what had caused this unexpected disruption in the fabric of time?

Naruto's mind swirled with questions and uncertainty, he found himself consumed by a flood of memories—memories of a past that seemed distant yet achingly familiar. And at the centre of it all stood his mother, Ai Hoshino, her presence a beacon of love and warmth in a world fraught with turmoil and uncertainty.

But before Naruto could delve deeper into his thoughts, the sound of footsteps broke through the silence, drawing his attention to the doorway of his room. There, framed against the dim light filtering in from the hallway, stood a figure a girl whose face stirred a sense of recognition deep within Naruto's soul.

Akane Kurokawa.

The name echoed in Naruto's mind like a distant melody, evoking memories of a time long past a time when their paths had crossed in a world that now felt like a distant dream. And yet, here she was, standing before him once again, her presence a poignant reminder of the bonds that transcended time and space.

As Akane stepped further into the room, her eyes met Naruto's, and for a moment, the air between them crackled with unspoken tension. There was a weight to her gaze, a silent question hanging in the air—a question that Naruto knew he must answer, though he could scarcely fathom where to begin.

Akane regarded him with a patient expression, her eyes soft with affection. "It's about time you got up," she said, her voice infused with gentle insistence. "It's time to go."

Naruto's head spun with confusion at Akane's words. "Go where?" he repeated, his voice tinged with uncertainty as he struggled to grasp the situation unfolding around him.

Akane's puzzled expression mirrored Naruto's own bewilderment. "To see your mother," she replied, her tone tinged with concern. "Remember? You said today you would tell her about us."

Akane's words sank in, Naruto's mind raced to catch up with the conversation. He wracked his brain, searching for any memory of such a promise, but came up empty-handed. How could he have made such a commitment when he couldn't even recall the events leading up to this moment?

Anxiety gnawed at Naruto's gut as he grappled with the unsettling realization that he seemed to have lost a chunk of time, his memory fragmented and disjointed. Yet, amidst the confusion, a flicker of determination ignited within him. If he had promised to confront his mother about his relationship with Akane, then he would honour that commitment, no matter how bewildering the circumstances surrounding it might be.

As the realization dawned on Naruto, a wave of relief washed over him, dispelling the lingering shadows of doubt and uncertainty that had clouded his mind. His mother alive, well, and waiting for him. It was a revelation that filled him with an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude, a beacon of hope in the midst of turmoil and confusion.

A smile spread across Naruto's face, lighting up his features with an unmistakable warmth as he turned to Akane. "My mother is alive?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief and wonder.

Akane nodded, her own expression softening with relief as she met Naruto's gaze. "Yes," she confirmed, her voice gentle and reassuring. "She's been waiting for you, Naruto. And now, it's time to go see her."

For Naruto, the news was nothing short of a miracle a second chance to reunite with the woman who had shaped his life in more ways than he could count. With a renewed sense of purpose coursing through his veins, Naruto's heart swelled with gratitude as he prepared to embark on this long-awaited journey.

With each step he took towards his mother's side, Naruto felt the weight of the world lifting from his shoulders, replaced by an overwhelming sense of hope and anticipation for the future that lay ahead.

As they journeyed, Naruto remained lost in a haze of confusion. When they eventually stopped, he stepped out of the car, the reality of their destination hitting him with sudden clarity. The imposing structure before him, with its stark, clinical architecture, revealed their arrival at a hospital.

Naruto cast a bewildered glance at the towering structure before him, its imposing facade a stark reminder of the reality he now found himself in. As he followed Akane through the bustling corridors of the hospital, his senses were assailed by a cacophony of sounds and sights, each one adding to his growing sense of disorientation.

Faces passed him by, their expressions a blur of concern and urgency, yet Naruto couldn't shake the feeling of detachment that clung to him like a shadow. What was happening in this time? Why did everything feel so unfamiliar?

Naruto stepped into the hospital room, a sense of awe and disbelief washed over him at the sight before him. There, lying peacefully on the bed, was his mother Ai Hoshino her gentle breathing a comforting rhythm that filled the room with a sense of tranquillity.

Beside her, nestled close, was Ruby, her form a serene presence in the dim light of the room. For a moment, Naruto simply stood there, unable to tear his gaze away from the sight of his mother and sister, alive and well before him.

As he approached the bed, a flood of emotions threatened to overwhelm him joy, relief, gratitude, and a deep sense of longing for the family he had lost and found once again. Kneeling beside the bed, Naruto reached out a trembling hand, gently brushing a strand of hair away from his mother's face.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as Naruto took in the sight of his mother's peaceful expression, etching it into his memory as if to never forget this precious moment. And as he looked upon her sleeping form, a sense of determination welled up inside him a resolve to cherish every moment with his family, to protect them at all costs, and to never again take for granted the gift of their presence in his life.

Naruto's tears of joy flowed freely as he gazed upon his sister, Ruby, and his mother, Ai. It was a moment he had longed for, one that seemed like a dream come true. As they stood before him, alive and well, Naruto felt a wave of relief wash over him, dispelling the uncertainty and confusion that had clouded his mind.

Ruby, roused from her slumber by Naruto's tears, looked at him with a mixture of concern and curiosity. "Why are you crying, Onii-chan?" she asked, her voice soft and innocent.

Naruto's heart swelled with emotion as he gathered his sister into a tight embrace. "I'm just so happy to see you both alive and well," he replied, his voice choked with emotion. "I thought I'd lost you forever."

Ruby's voice cut through Naruto's reverie, bringing him back to the present. "Mama isn't well, she's in a coma, remember..."

Naruto's mind went blank, the weight of Ruby's words hitting him like a ton of bricks. All the confusion and disorientation melted away, replaced by a deep sense of sorrow and concern for his mother.

Chapter 2 - Alive End

A/N

That concludes this chapter, and I hope you all enjoyed it. As mentioned, we'll be exploring various timelines as we venture into both the past and the future.

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