A/N

Hello, I'm not sure if everyone received the last update.

I've heard that some updates have been missed, so I've revised this chapter.

However, it will be shorter than usual until notifications are fixed.

I found this chapter particularly enjoyable as it provides insight into the upcoming developments I have in mind.

I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Chapter 7 - Spider-Man Dead?

Some days later, In the quiet confines of the school library, Naruto and Peter sat side by side, textbooks and notes spread out before them. The soft glow of reading lamps illuminated the space, casting a warm ambiance over their study area.

Naruto furrowed his brow as he tackled a particularly challenging problem, his fingers tapping against the desk in deep concentration. Beside him, Peter flipped through pages with a determined expression, occasionally jotting down notes in the margins of his textbook.

Despite the occasional whispers and rustling of papers from nearby students, Naruto remained focused on his work. He knew that staying on top of his studies was crucial, especially with his recent absences due to his duties as Spider-Man.

As they delved deeper into their assignments, Naruto and Peter occasionally exchanged notes and helped each other with difficult concepts. Their camaraderie and shared determination created an atmosphere of productivity in the library, driving them both to excel in their studies.

With each passing minute, Naruto felt a sense of satisfaction knowing that he was making progress in catching up on his coursework.

Suddenly, MJ rushed into the school library, her urgency palpable, Naruto looked up from his books, concern etched across his features. Her words hit him like a jolt of electricity – the R.H.I.N.O. was on a rampage in the city, wreaking havoc with no one able to stop him yet.

Without hesitation, Naruto rose from his seat, his mind already shifting gears from academic to hero mode. He glanced at Peter, who nodded in silent understanding, ready to cover for him during language class.

"I've got to go," Naruto said to MJ, his voice firm with resolve. "Thanks for letting me know. Peter, I'll catch up with you later."

With a quick nod to his friend, Naruto dashed out of the library, his heart pounding with a mixture of adrenaline and determination. He knew that the safety of the city depended on him, and he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead as Spider-Man.

Naruto hurried out of the library, he found himself face to face with Tsunade, a sight that immediately put him on edge. A surprise parent-teacher meeting was the last thing he needed right now.

Tsunade's expression was a mix of concern and curiosity as she informed him about the meeting Mr. Depalma had arranged to discuss his progress in school. Naruto's mind raced as he tried to come up with a plausible excuse, but the truth was too complicated to explain.

Looking at his phone, Naruto hurriedly explained to Tsunade and Mr. Depalma about his involvement with Mr. Stark's tutoring sessions in computer science, hoping it would suffice as a plausible explanation for his distracted behavior. To his relief, both Tsunade and Mr. Depalma seemed to accept his explanation, offering him a reprieve from further questioning.

Tsunade regarded him with a mixture of understanding and concern. "Just make sure you keep up with your studies, Naruto. Education is important."

Naruto nodded earnestly, grateful for their understanding. "I will, Grandma. Thanks."

Mr. Depalma echoed similar sentiments, though with a touch more skepticism. "Don't let your extracurricular activities affect your grades, Naruto. We're counting on you to keep up."

With a final nod of acknowledgment, Naruto made a swift exit, while running out of the school, Naruto's heart sank as he discovered Gwen curled up amidst the refuse, her slumber disturbed by the harsh reality of her family's impending turmoil. He hesitated, torn between the urgency of the city's crisis and the desperate need to comfort his friend in distress. With a heavy sigh, he gently shook Gwen awake, concern etched into his features.

"Gwen, what are you doing here?" Naruto asked softly, his voice tinged with worry.

Startled, Gwen blinked sleepily, her eyes red-rimmed from tears. "Naruto?" she murmured, struggling to collect herself. "I... I just needed some air, some space..."

Naruto's brow furrowed with concern as he took in Gwen's dishevelled appearance. "Are you okay? You don't look so good."

Gwen managed a weak smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "I'll be fine, Naruto," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Just... dealing with the same family stuff."

Naruto's heart clenched at the mention of Gwen's family troubles. He knew he couldn't leave her alone in such a vulnerable state, but duty called, and the city needed him. "Gwen, I wish I could stay and talk," he began, his tone apologetic, "but there's something urgent I need to take care of. Can you... can you hold on here until I get back?"

Gwen nodded, her expression a mixture of understanding and sadness. "Of course, Naruto," she replied softly. "Go do what you need to do. I'll be okay."

With a heavy heart, Naruto left Gwen in the alley, her loneliness echoing in his mind as he swung away, knowing that he couldn't afford to let the city down, even if it meant leaving his friend behind in her time of need.

Naruto's heart raced as he darted through the school corridors, his mind consumed by the urgency of the situation with RHINO rampaging through the city. Just as he reached the exit, he heard MJ's voice calling out to him, her surprise evident in her tone.

"Naruto, what are you still doing here?" MJ asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.

Naruto spared her a quick glance, his expression tense with determination. "There's something I need you to take care of, MJ," he replied hastily. "I spotted Gwen outside. Can you check on her for me? She's not doing too well."

MJ's eyes widened in concern at the mention of Gwen. "Of course, Naruto," she said quickly, her voice filled with empathy. "I'll erm... make sure she's okay."

With a nod of gratitude, Naruto turned to leave, but before he could make his escape, a football came hurtling toward him, striking him squarely in the head. His temper flared, and without a second thought, he retaliated by flinging the football back with all his strength, sending it soaring onto the school's roof.

The football team erupted into a chorus of angry shouts, their pursuit hot on Naruto's heels as he raced down the school corridors. But Naruto was not one to be caught easily; with the agility of a spider, he reached a corner and swiftly scaled the wall, disappearing from view in a blur of motion as he swung away to confront the chaos unfolding in the city.

Naruto swung through the bustling city streets, his senses on high alert as he sought out the source of the chaos caused by RHINO's rampage. With each web-sling, he could feel the weight of responsibility pressing down on him, driving him forward with a fierce determination to protect the city and its people.

However, as he approached the scene of the chaos, his eyes widened in surprise to see Iron Man already there, standing tall and imposing beside the subdued form of RHINO. The mechanical behemoth was encased in a shimmering stasis field, rendering him immobile and powerless to cause any further destruction.

For a moment, Naruto hovered in the air, stunned by the sight before him. It was rare for someone else to beat him to the punch, especially when it came to handling dangerous threats like RHINO. But as he watched Iron Man effortlessly neutralize the situation, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of admiration for the armored hero's efficiency and skill.

With RHINO contained and the city safe once more, Naruto's shoulders sagged in relief. It seemed that his intervention was no longer needed, and he could finally take a moment to catch his breath. As he descended to the ground, he approached Iron Man, offering a nod of acknowledgment and gratitude for his swift action in quelling the chaos.

"Thanks for the assist, Iron Man," Naruto said, his voice laced with respect. "Looks like you had everything under control."

Iron Man gave a nod in return, his expression hidden behind the sleek visor of his helmet. "Just doing my part to keep the city safe," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement.

A civilian approached him with a mix of frustration and relief evident in their voice.

"About time you showed up, Spider-Man!" the civilian exclaimed, their arms crossed impatiently. "We were starting to think you'd taken the day off or something."

Naruto offered an apologetic grin, understanding the concern behind the civilian's words. "Sorry about that," he replied, his tone sincere. "Got caught up with a few things, but I'm here now. Everything okay?"

The civilian nodded, their expression softening slightly. "Yeah, everything's settled now, thanks to Iron Man," they explained, gesturing towards the armored hero who was now conversing with law enforcement nearby. "But it's good to see you here, too. Makes us feel safer knowing you've got our backs."

Naruto's smile widened at the words of appreciation. Despite the occasional frustration and impatience, he knew that the people of the city relied on him and trusted him to protect them. It was a responsibility he took seriously, one that drove him to always be there when they needed him most.

"Anytime," he replied, his voice filled with determination. "Just doing what I can to help."

With a nod of gratitude, the civilian bid Naruto farewell and returned to the safety of the crowd. As Naruto watched them go, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his role as the city's protector. No matter the challenges he faced or the obstacles in his path, he knew that he would always be there to answer the call of duty.

Iron Man gestured towards a nearby rooftop, indicating they should talk in private. "Let's have a chat over there," he suggested.

Naruto followed suit, leaping effortlessly across the gap between buildings and landing smoothly on the designated rooftop. Iron Man joined him moments later, the thrusters on his suit whirring softly as he touched down beside Naruto.

Once they were both settled, Mr. Stark turned to face Naruto, his expression serious behind the faceplate of his helmet. Mr. Stark turned to Naruto with a thoughtful expression. "You know, kid," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of concern, "you don't have to be here every time something goes down. You're still a kid, after all. You should be out there enjoying your childhood."

Naruto glanced at Mr. Stark his expression solemn. "I appreciate that, Mr. Stark," he replied, his voice earnest, "but I can't just sit back and watch when people are in danger. I owe it to my grandpa, and everyone else, to always be here, no matter what."

Mr. Stark nodded in understanding, his gaze softening behind the faceplate of his helmet. "I get that," he said, his tone gentle. "But you also need to remember to take care of yourself. You're no good to anyone if you burn yourself out."

Naruto's jaw tightened at the reminder, his resolve unwavering. "I didn't choose to be a hero to take time off," he replied, his voice firm. "I knew what I signed up for, and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to protect the city."

Mr. Stark placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, a gesture of support and understanding. "I know you are, kid," he said, his voice filled with pride. "But don't forget that you have people who care about you, too. You're not in this alone."

Naruto nodded in acknowledgment, a sense of gratitude washing over him. "Thanks, Mr. Stark," he said, his voice tinged with emotion. "I'll remember that."

With a final nod, Naruto swung away into the night, his determination driving him forward. Mr. Stark watched him go, a small smile playing on his lips. "Kids," he muttered to himself before taking off into the sky, his thoughts filled with admiration for the young hero he had come to know.

In the bustling chaos of the Bugle office, Peter Parker's senses were assaulted by the clamour of ringing phones and hurried chatter. Amidst the flurry of activity, a single headline pierced through the din, igniting a media storm: "Spider-Man Robs Bank."

Ben Urich, the seasoned journalist, debated the validity of such a claim, his scepticism evident in the furrow of his brow. But for J. Jonah Jameson, the sensationalist editor-in-chief, this was a golden opportunity. With fervour in his eyes, he seized upon the chance to sell more papers, leveraging Peter's own photographs of Spider-Man to fuel the frenzy.

As the Bugle offices buzzed with speculation and sensationalism, Peter's conscience weighed heavy. He knew the truth, knew that Spider-Man was no criminal. Yet, his efforts to combat the false narrative were drowned out by the relentless roar of the media machine.

In a moment of clarity amidst the chaos, Peter reached for his phone, dialing a familiar number with a sense of urgency.

relayed the troubling news to Naruto. He could hear the urgency in Peter's voice, a stark contrast to the chaos erupting around him at the Bugle office. Naruto listened intently, his mind racing to make sense of the situation.

"Someone's using my old mask?" Naruto repeated, his brow furrowing in concern. "But why? And how did they even get their hands on it?"

Peter sighed heavily on the other end of the line, frustration evident in every word he spoke. "I don't know, but we need to figure it out fast," he said, his voice tinged with urgency. "The Bugle's already spinning it as Spider-Man turning to a life of crime. We can't let that happen."

Naruto nodded, a sense of determination coursing through him. "I'm on it," he declared, his voice resolute. "I'll find out who's behind this and put a stop to it. Thanks for letting me know, Pete."

With a quick goodbye, Naruto hung up the phone and sprang into action. He knew that time was of the essence, and he couldn't afford to waste a single moment. As he swung through the city streets, his mind raced with possibilities, each one more troubling than the last. But one thing was for certain: he wasn't going to let anyone tarnish Spider-Man's reputation, not now, not ever.

Later in the night, Naruto returned home to find a police car parked outside Naruto's home sent a shiver of apprehension down his spine, his mind racing with dire possibilities. With a pounding heart, he rushed inside, his worst fears momentarily assuaged when he found Gwen resting peacefully on the couch.

Relief washed over Naruto as he realized the true reason behind the police car's presence - Captain Stacy's temporary absence and Tsunade's kind gesture of hospitality towards Gwen. Yet, his relief was short lived as he sensed Mary jane arrive.

Naruto welcomed MJ into his home with a warm smile. He had been looking forward to sharing the day's events with her, eager to bask in her comforting presence after a tumultuous day. But as MJ stepped inside, her demeanour seemed different, her usual warmth replaced by an air of tension, as she spotted a sleeping Gwen Stacy.

"Gwen? Why is she staying here?" MJ's voice was laced with uncertainty, her brows furrowing slightly as she regarded Naruto.

Naruto's smile wavered, a flicker of confusion dancing across his features as he tried to ease MJ's concerns. "Her dad's out of town, and Grandma offered to let her stay until he gets back. Isn't that nice?"

But MJ's expression remained guarded, her response tinged with frustration. "Nice? Are you serious, Naruto? You know how I feel about her."

Naruto's heart sank at the hint of accusation in MJ's tone, a knot forming in the pit of his stomach as he struggled to navigate the sudden tension between them.

"Come on, MJ. She's going through a tough time," Naruto replied, his voice tinged with pleading. "I couldn't just leave her out there."

But MJ wasn't swayed, her frustration evident as she voiced her concerns about their relationship. "It's not just about her, Naruto. It's about us. Do you even think about how I feel?"

Naruto's smile faltered, replaced by a furrow of concern as he tried to make sense of MJ's sudden shift in attitude. "Of course, I do, MJ. But Gwen needs our help right now."

But MJ's doubts persisted, her words hanging heavily in the air like a dark cloud over their relationship. "And what about me? Do I even matter to you anymore?"

Naruto's heart clenched at the pain in MJ's voice, the weight of her accusations hitting him like a punch to the gut. "MJ, that's not fair. You know how much you mean to me."

But MJ's resolve remained unyielding, her resolve firm as she confronted Naruto with her deepest fears and insecurities. "Do I? Because sometimes, it feels like I'm just second best to everyone else in your life."

In the silence that followed, Naruto struggled to find the right words, his heart heavy with the realization that their relationship was hanging by a thread. As MJ turned to leave, Naruto's heart ached with the knowledge that their bond was teetering on the edge of uncertainty, its fragile foundation shaken by doubt and insecurity.

Naruto's heart sank as he watched MJ leave, a sense of unease settling in the pit of his stomach. He couldn't understand why MJ was suddenly so distrustful of Gwen, especially considering they had been friends for so long. As he turned to Gwen, who was still asleep on the couch, he couldn't help but feel torn between the two important people in his life.

Gwen stirred slightly, her brow furrowing as she slept. Naruto approached her quietly, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, but he also didn't want to jump to conclusions about MJ's concerns.

Sighing heavily, Naruto decided to focus on the present moment. He gently shook Gwen awake, offering her a warm smile despite the turmoil raging inside him. "Hey, Gwen," he said softly, "you okay?"

Gwen blinked sleepily, rubbing her eyes as she sat up on the couch. "Yeah, I think so," she replied, her voice groggy with sleep. "Just a little tired, I guess."

Naruto nodded understandingly, his mind still reeling from the earlier conversation with MJ. "Well, you're welcome to stay here as long as you need," he said, trying to sound reassuring. "My grandma's out for the night, so it's just us."

Gwen offered him a grateful smile, her eyes filled with appreciation. "Thanks, Naruto," she said sincerely, her voice soft. "I really appreciate it."

Despite his lingering worries, Naruto couldn't help but return her smile. "No problem," he said, his words tinged with genuine warmth. "Just get some rest, okay? You look like you could use it."

As Gwen settled back down on the couch, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling that things were about to get even more complicated. But for now, all he could do was try to be there for his friend and hope that everything would work itself out in the end.

After a bit of more rest Naruto sat with Gwen, their textbooks spread out before them, the news of his "evil counterpart" wreaking havoc across the city interrupted their study session. Naruto's jaw clenched with determination as he listened to the details of the robbery, his sense of responsibility weighing heavily on his shoulders.

"Sorry, Gwen, I have to go over to Mary Jane's quickly ," Naruto said abruptly, his voice tinged with urgency as he gathered his belongings.

Gwen's brow furrowed with concern as she watched Naruto's sudden departure, her worry evident in her eyes. "Is everything okay, Naruto?"

Naruto flashed her a reassuring smile, though his expression betrayed the gravity of the situation. "I'll explain later. Just need to take care of something."

With a quick nod, Naruto hurried out of the door, his mind racing with thoughts of his doppelganger and the havoc he was wreaking across the city. He knew that he couldn't allow this charade to continue any longer, that he needed to confront his "twin" and put an end to the chaos once and for all.

Naruto arrived at the scene, the flashing lights of police cruisers illuminated the night, casting an eerie glow over the chaotic scene. With a sinking feeling in his gut, he realized that he had walked straight into a trap.

Raising his hands in a gesture of surrender, Naruto approached the officers cautiously, his voice tense with urgency as he tried to explain the situation. "I'm the real Spider-Man," he insisted, his words drowned out by the clamour of voices around him.

But his pleas fell on deaf ears as the officers levelled their weapons, their expressions grim and unwavering. "Hands behind your head!" one of them barked, the harsh command ringing out above the din.

Feeling the weight of their suspicion bearing down on him, Naruto's heart pounded in his chest as he struggled to make them understand. "You've got the wrong guy," he protested, his voice tinged with desperation.

But before he could say another word, a shot rang out, the piercing sting of the bullet tore through the fabric of Naruto's suit, sending a searing pain coursing through his left shoulder. Stunned by the sudden assault, he staggered backward, his mind reeling with disbelief.

Amidst the chaos, the NYPD moved in swiftly, their guns trained on him with unwavering resolve. Through gritted teeth, Naruto pleaded his innocence, his words lost amidst the cacophony of shouts and sirens.

But the officers remained steadfast, their suspicions hardened by the relentless media smear campaign. Ignoring his protests, they moved in to unmask him, intent on revealing the face behind the mask.

With a surge of adrenaline, Naruto fought against the restraints, his muscles straining against the unforgiving metal of the handcuffs. In a burst of sheer determination, he broke free, his body surging with newfound strength.

With a swift leap, he bounded across the rooftop, the world blurring around him as he sought refuge amidst the shadows. Finally, finding solace amid a pile of discarded refuse, he caught his breath, his mind racing with the realization that he was now a fugitive in his own city.

Naruto's hand trembled as he reached for his phone, fingers fumbling with the buttons as he dialled MJ's number. With each ring, his heart pounded louder in his chest, a desperate plea for help echoing in his mind.

"MJ," he gasped, relief flooding his voice as she answered. "I need... help."

Without hesitation, MJ sprang into action, her unwavering determination cutting through the chaos of Naruto's pain. Racing against time, she found him, her presence a beacon of solace in the darkness that threatened to consume him.

MJ's concern deepened as she watched Naruto struggle against the pain, his determination warring with his fear. "Should I call Tsunade?" she asked softly, her voice a gentle reminder of the support they could lean on.

But Naruto's resolve hardened, his gaze unwavering despite the agony etched into every line of his face. "No," he whispered hoarsely, memories of past traumas resurfacing with painful clarity. "I can't... not again. Not after Grandpa."

Understanding the weight of his words, MJ nodded in silent agreement, her unwavering support a silent promise to stand by his side through every trial.

"Lets, we have to get you to a hospital," she urged, her voice laced with concern as she took in the extent of his injuries.

Sometime later Naruto, awoke, the sterile scent of antiseptic filled his senses, and he found himself surrounded by the sterile white walls of the hospital room. His injuries had been treated, but a sense of unease settled in the pit of his stomach as he realized that the police were waiting outside, ready to question him about the events that had transpired.

Quickly, Naruto got out of bed and jumped into the air ducts, his heart pounded with adrenaline-fueled urgency. He knew that he couldn't afford to get caught - not when the consequences could expose his secret identity as Spider-Man. With each twist and turn, he navigated the maze of metal, his movements swift and precise as he made his escape.

Emerging outside, Naruto scanned the area for any sign of authorities, his senses on high alert for any potential threats. Spotting MJ in the distance, also fleeing from the hospital, Naruto's relief was palpable as he hurried to intercept her.

"MJ, wait!" Naruto called out, his voice urgent as he caught up to her.

Startled, MJ turned to face him, her eyes wide with surprise and relief. "Naruto, what are you doing here?"

"We need to go," Naruto replied quickly, his tone urgent as he glanced around for any sign of pursuit.

Together, they hailed a cab and made their way back to Queens, the tension in the air palpable as they navigated the city streets. With each passing moment, Naruto's anxiety grew, knowing that he needed to return home without raising suspicion.

As they arrived back in Queens, Naruto bid MJ farewell and made his way home, his mind racing with thoughts of the close call and the consequences of his actions. Sneaking back into his room, he carefully arranged himself in bed, feigning sleep as he waited for Tsunade to check on him.

When morning came, Naruto awoke to the sound of the news blaring from the television. His heart sank as he watched Captain Stacy vow to take down Spider-Man, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air, with a sense of dread settling over him.

The following day, Naruto's steps were heavy as he made his way through the crowded hallways of the school. The lingering pain from the bullet wound in his shoulder weighed on him like a heavy burden, sapping his energy and leaving him feeling sickly and weak. With a resigned sigh, he made his way to his locker, his movements slow and deliberate as he reached for the combination.

As he opened his locker door, a small slip of paper fluttered to the ground, catching Naruto's attention. His curiosity piqued, he bent down to pick it up, his eyes narrowing as he read the mysterious message scrawled across it. "Need help with that shoulder?" it read, the words cryptic and enigmatic.

Naruto's suspicions immediately flared to life, his mind racing with questions and doubts. Who could have left this note for him, and why? Could it be a trap, or perhaps a genuine offer of assistance? With a sense of caution, Naruto scanned the hallway, searching for any sign of the note's sender.

To his surprise, a figure emerged from the crowd, moving with purpose towards him. It was the Wasp from the Ultimates, her presence both unexpected and unsettling. Naruto's instincts screamed at him to be wary, to keep his distance from SHIELD and their operatives. But the pain in his shoulder was becoming unbearable, and he knew he couldn't afford to ignore the offer of help.

Reluctantly, Naruto nodded his assent, his expression guarded as he followed the Wasp to a secluded corner of the hallway. With practiced ease, she administered first aid to his wounded shoulder, her movements efficient and precise. Despite his reservations, Naruto couldn't help but feel a twinge of gratitude for her assistance, even if it came from an unexpected source.

As the pain began to ebb away, replaced by a sense of relief, Naruto's thoughts turned to Nick Fury and the Ultimates. He knew that he couldn't trust them completely, not after everything that had happened. But for now, he would accept their help, if only to ease the burden of his injuries and allow him to focus on the challenges that lay ahead.

The healing accelerator administered by the Wasp worked wonders, and Naruto felt a world better as the later hours approached. The nagging pain in his shoulder had subsided to a dull ache, and his energy had returned, albeit in a diminished state. As he made his way home, flanked by Peter, Gwen, and MJ, their concern for him was palpable.

Despite their attempts to keep up a cheerful facade, Naruto could see the worry etched into their expressions. He offered them a reassuring smile, grateful for their support and companionship during his time of need. Together, they walked the familiar path towards the Uzumaki household, the warmth of their friendship a comforting presence amidst the uncertainty that hung in the air.

But as they neared their destination, the sight of a large police presence sent a jolt of fear coursing through Naruto's veins. With a sinking feeling in his stomach, he quickened his pace, his heart pounding with apprehension. Bursting through the front door, he found Tsunade safe and sound, but the grim expression on her face told him that something was amiss.

Before Naruto could voice his concerns, the police delivered a solemn message - Captain Stacy's badge, a stark reminder of the tragedy that had befallen their family. Naruto's heart clenched with sorrow as he absorbed the news, the weight of the loss hitting him like a physical blow.

Gwen's anguish was palpable as she accepted her father's badge, her grief raw and unfiltered. Naruto reached out to offer her a comforting embrace, his own sorrow mirrored in her tear-filled eyes. In that moment, they were united in their grief, bound together by the shared pain of their loss.

As the police departed, leaving behind a sombre atmosphere tinged with sorrow, Naruto couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of determination. He vowed to honour Captain Stacy's memory, to carry on his legacy of courage and integrity in the face of adversity. And as he looked to his friends for support, he knew that together, they would find a way to navigate the challenges that lay ahead, united in their shared determination to seek justice and find peace amidst the chaos of their lives.

The evening draped the city in a shroud of melancholy as Naruto, Peter, MJ, and Gwen found themselves gathered on the rooftop, grappling with the weight of recent events. The spectre of the impostor Spider-Man loomed large in their thoughts, casting a shadow over their once peaceful existence.

"I can't believe what that impostor did... sacrificing Captain Stacy like that," Naruto murmured, his voice heavy with sorrow.

MJ's gaze was sombre as she nodded in agreement. "It's horrifying... poor Gwen. She's taking it so hard."

Peter's brow furrowed with disbelief. "I just can't wrap my head around it. How could someone do something like that?"

Gwen, tears streaming down her face, could barely contain her anger and grief. "That... that Spider-Man... I hate him. He took everything from me."

Naruto, his heart heavy with empathy, reached out to console her. "Gwen, listen... that impostor, he's not the real Spider-Man. He's just some sick copycat."

But Gwen's anguish ran deep, her anger boiling over. "I don't care! He's wearing the suit, he's... he's just like him!" With patience and understanding, Naruto and his friends tried to reassure Gwen, reminding her of the true heroism embodied by Captain Stacy and the real Spider-Man. Despite the pain and uncertainty that hung in the air, their bond remained unbreakable, a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

The following day brought news of the impostor once again, his brazen acts of violence a stark reminder of the danger he posed to the city.

Naruto swung through the bustling city streets, his heart raced with a mix of determination and apprehension. He had received word of the impostor Spider-Man's latest crime, and he knew that innocent lives hung in the balance. With each graceful arc of his web-slinging, he drew closer to the scene of the unfolding crisis.

Arriving at the bank, Naruto's senses went into overdrive as he took in the chaotic scene before him. Police cars were scattered haphazardly, their flashing lights casting an eerie glow against the surrounding buildings. Crowds of onlookers had gathered at a safe distance, their murmurs of fear and confusion filling the air.

But amidst the chaos, Naruto's focus was singular: the impostor Spider-Man, a dark shadow amidst the chaos, his sinister intent palpable even from a distance. With a steely resolve, Naruto landed on the roof of a nearby building, his gaze fixed unwaveringly on the figure below.

Taking a moment to assess the situation, Naruto's mind raced with strategies and contingencies. He knew that confronting the impostor would be dangerous, but he also knew that he couldn't stand idly by while innocent lives were at risk. With a silent vow to protect those in need, he leaped from the rooftop, his web-shooters whirring to life as he swung down towards the heart of the conflict.

Naruto descended towards the scene, his eyes narrowed in on the impostor Spider-Man and the innocent woman held captive in his grip. His heart clenched with a mixture of anger and determination as he witnessed the fear etched across her face.

"Let her go," Naruto's voice rang out with a commanding force, his words cutting through the tense atmosphere like a blade. He landed with a graceful flourish, his gaze unwavering as he faced down the impostor.

The impostor's gaze flickered towards Naruto, a cruel smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Ah, look who decided to join the party," he taunted, his voice dripping with malice. "But I'm afraid you're too late to play the hero."

Naruto's jaw clenched at the callousness in the impostor's tone, but he refused to be deterred. "You don't have to do this," he pleaded, his voice tinged with urgency. "Let her go, and we can resolve this peacefully."

But the impostor's laughter echoed hollowly against the walls of the bank, a chilling sound that sent shivers down Naruto's spine. "Peacefully?" he scoffed, his grip on the woman tightening. "Where's the fun in that?"

With a swift motion, the impostor pressed the taser closer to the woman's neck, eliciting a gasp of fear from her lips. Naruto's heart hammered in his chest as he watched the scene unfold before him, every fibre of his being urging him to act.

But he knew that one wrong move could mean disaster. With a steely resolve, Naruto steadied himself, his mind racing with possibilities as he sought a way to defuse the situation without putting the innocent woman in further danger.

With nerves of steel and reflexes honed through battles he's fought, Naruto acted swiftly, his web shooters unleashing a volley of sticky webs that ensnared the impostor's right arm, rendering it temporarily immobilized.

The sudden turn of events caught the impostor off guard, his grip faltering for just a moment as he struggled against the webbing. It was all the opening Naruto needed, his movements fluid and precise as he closed in on the impostor, determined to end the hostage situation before it could escalate any further.

With a swift and decisive movement, Naruto lunged forward, his hands closing around the impostor's form. With all the strength he could muster, he hoisted the robber into the air, his grip unyielding as he flung him across the bank with a forceful motion.

The robber's cries filled the air, a desperate plea for mercy as he sprawled across the floor, his body wracked with pain. But Naruto's fury knew no bounds, his anger boiling over at the sight of the innocent lives put at risk by the impostor's reckless actions.

With a surge of raw emotion, Naruto's hands closed around the impostor's throat, his fingers tightening with a vengeful grip. The robber's eyes widened in terror as Naruto's hold grew tighter, his airway constricted, his breath coming in ragged gasps.

As the robber pleaded for leniency, offering Naruto the stolen money in exchange for his freedom, Naruto's grip tightened, his fingers digging into the fabric of the impostor's costume.

"You think you can buy your freedom with stolen money?" Naruto's voice was low and dangerous, each word punctuated by a seething rage. "You endangered innocent lives for your own selfish gain. You don't deserve mercy."

"Give me one reason why I shouldn't end you right now," Naruto's voice was a low growl, his words laced with a deadly intent. The robber's struggles grew frantic as he clawed at Naruto's hands, his face contorted in agony.

But in the midst of his fury, a flicker of doubt crept into Naruto's mind, a reminder of the hero he aspired to be. With a trembling breath, he loosened his grip, his hands falling away as he took a step back, the robber collapsing to the ground in a heap.

For a moment, the air hung heavy with tension, the silence broken only by the sound of the robber's ragged gasps for air. And then, with a heavy heart, Naruto reached forward and unmasked the robber, revealing the face of a man driven by desperation and greed.

"I won't become like you," Naruto's voice was a whisper, his words a solemn vow. "But justice will still be served."

And with that, Naruto turned away, leaving the robber to face the consequences of his actions as he vanished into the night, a silent guardian watching over the city.

The weight of Gwen's sorrow hung heavy in the air as Naruto returned home, his heart aching for his friend's pain. Tsunade's words cut through the silence, filling in the pieces of the heartbreaking puzzle that was Gwen's family situation.

"Ginger Stacy... she's abandoning her own daughter?" Naruto's disbelief was palpable as he struggled to comprehend the depths of Gwen's despair.

Tsunade nodded solemnly, her expression mirroring Naruto's concern. "It seems so, Naruto. Poor Gwen... she's been through so much already."

Gwen's desolation echoed through the room as she sat, lost in her own thoughts. Naruto's heart went out to her, his desire to comfort her burning stronger than ever.

"Gwen, listen... they caught the guy who killed your dad," Naruto offered gently, hoping to bring her some semblance of solace.

But Gwen's anguish seemed to overshadow any sense of relief. Her eyes, heavy with tears, reflected a pain too deep for words.

"It doesn't matter," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "None of it matters..."

Tsunade's heart went out to the broken young girl before her, her resolve to offer Gwen a safe haven growing stronger with each passing moment.

"Gwen, dear... you're not alone. You're always welcome here," Tsunade assured her, her voice warm with compassion.

Gwen's acceptance of Tsunade's offer brought a flicker of hope to the somber atmosphere, a small ray of light in the darkness of her despair.

Tsunade's offer to take Gwen in weighed heavily on MJ's mind. She worried about the implications of having Gwen living with them, especially considering the strained relationship between her and Naruto. Despite her concerns, MJ couldn't deny the fact that Gwen needed support and stability, something she might not find elsewhere.

Naruto tried to comfort Gwen, MJ pulled him aside, her expression troubled. "Are you sure about this, Naruto?" she asked quietly, her eyes searching his for reassurance.

Naruto sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know, MJ," he admitted, his voice heavy with uncertainty. "But I can't just turn her away. She needs us right now, and I can't ignore that."

MJ nodded, understanding the weight of his words. "I know," she said softly. "But we need to think this through carefully. Having Gwen here... it's going to change things."

Naruto nodded in agreement, his gaze lingering on Gwen as she sat huddled on the couch, lost in her own thoughts. "I know," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

In the quiet of Naruto's living room, Mary Jane's pent-up emotions erupted like a volcano, her words a torrent of fear and uncertainty. Naruto listened in silence, his heart heavy with empathy as MJ poured out her deepest fears and anxieties.

"I just can't shake the nightmares, Naruto," Mary Jane's voice trembled with emotion as she spoke, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "Every time I close my eyes, I see it... the bridge, the fall... I can't escape it."

Naruto's brow furrowed with concern as he reached out to comfort her, his own heart aching at the thought of her suffering alone. "MJ, I'm so sorry," he murmured, his voice filled with genuine remorse. "I wish I could take away your pain..."

But Mary Jane's anguish ran deeper than just her own nightmares; it extended to her fears for Naruto's safety. "And you, Naruto... I'm terrified that something will happen to you," she confessed, her voice choked with emotion. "Being Spider-Man... it's too dangerous. You can't keep risking your life like this."

Naruto's attempts to steer the conversation back to Gwen's situation fell on deaf ears as Mary Jane's fears continued to pour out, her words a stark reminder of the harsh realities they faced.

The weight of MJ's words hung heavy in the air, suffocating Naruto as her accusations pierced through his heart like a dagger.

"You'll cheat on me, won't you?" MJ's voice trembled with insecurity, her eyes filled with pain and fear. "Just like my father did."

Naruto's heart shattered at the accusation, his mind reeling with disbelief. "No, MJ, you have to believe me," he pleaded, his voice choked with emotion. "I would never do that to you. You mean everything to me."

But MJ's resolve remained firm, her walls built high to protect her fragile heart. "I can't do this anymore, Naruto," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't keep living in fear of being hurt again."

The words struck Naruto like a physical blow, his chest tightening with the crushing weight of her decision. "But MJ, we can work through this," he urged, his voice filled with desperation. "We can overcome anything together."

But MJ shook her head, her eyes brimming with tears as she took a step back, her resolve unwavering. "I'm sorry, Naruto," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the pounding of his heart. "But it's over."

And with those final words, MJ turned and walked away, leaving Naruto standing alone in the wreckage of their shattered relationship, his heart broken and his spirit shattered.

In the aftermath of Mary Jane's emotional eruption, the room felt suffocatingly tense, the air thick with unspoken words and shattered dreams. Naruto stood frozen, his heart clenched in a vice of anguish as he watched Mary Jane's tears fall like silent raindrops, each one a painful reminder of their unravelling bond.

Her accusations cut deeper than any blade, slicing through the fragile veneer of trust that had once bound them together. The weight of her insecurities bore down on Naruto like a leaden weight, dragging him into the depths of despair with each passing moment.

"MJ, please, just listen," Naruto pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper as he reached out to her, his fingers trembling with the intensity of his emotions. But Mary Jane's gaze remained resolutely averted, her heart hardened against his pleas as she turned away, leaving him stranded in a sea of shattered promises and unfulfilled dreams.

Alone in the dimly lit room, Naruto crumpled to the floor, the weight of his heartache crushing him beneath its merciless grip. The silence was deafening, broken only by the echoes of Mary Jane's departing footsteps, each one a painful reminder of what he had lost.

In the solitude of his grief, Naruto knew that their love had been irreparably shattered, leaving nothing but the bitter taste of regret and the hollow ache of loneliness in its wake.

Caught in the grip of despair, Naruto's world had become a blur of anguish and regret. With each passing moment, the weight of his heartache threatened to consume him whole, leaving him adrift in a sea of darkness with no lifeline in sight.

Desperate for a sliver of solace, Naruto reached for his phone, his fingers trembling with the weight of his emotions. But as he dialled Mary Jane's number, the bitter reality crashed down upon him like a tidal wave. She wouldn't answer. She wouldn't even pick up the phone to hear his voice.

Frustration boiled within him, a tempest of emotions threatening to tear him apart from the inside out. In a fit of rage, he hurled his phone across the room, the sound of shattering glass echoing in the empty silence. But as the shards settled around him, a pang of remorse pierced his heart. He had destroyed his only means of communication, his last lifeline to the outside world.

With a heavy sigh, Naruto bent down to retrieve the shattered remains of his phone, his movements slow and deliberate. As he attempted to salvage what little remained, a sense of futility washed over him like a suffocating tide. What was the point? Even if he could fix his phone, it wouldn't mend the broken pieces of his heart.

Annoyed and defeated, Naruto decided to lose himself in the familiar rhythm of the night, seeking solace in the adrenaline-fueled chaos of the city streets. With each punch and kick, he poured his pain into the violence, allowing the physical exertion to numb the ache in his soul, if only for a fleeting moment.

But just as he began to lose himself in the rhythm of battle, a sudden disruption shattered the fragile peace of the night. Everything around him began to warp and twist, sucked into a swirling vortex of glowing purple energy.

Caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the glowing purple portal, Naruto's senses were thrown into disarray as the world around him seemed to warp and twist in its grasp. With a sense of urgency, he tried to resist its pull, but found himself inexorably drawn towards its swirling depths.

As he was pulled closer and closer to the portal's epicentre, Naruto's mind raced with questions. What could be causing such a phenomenon? Was it a new threat, or something even more sinister?

With a burst of determination, Naruto pushed against the force of the portal, fighting against its pull with all his strength. But try as he might, he couldn't break free from its grasp, and soon found himself being consumed by its swirling energies.

In the blink of an eye, Naruto was gone, disappearing into the unknown depths of the portal, leaving behind only questions and uncertainty in his wake.

Naruto hurtled through the swirling vortex of the portal, a cacophony of disorienting sensations assaulted his senses. Colours blurred and merged together, while the very fabric of reality seemed to warp and twist around him. He felt as though he were being torn apart and stitched back together all at once, his body subjected to forces beyond comprehension.

With a jolt, Naruto was suddenly expelled from the vortex, hurtling through the air before crashing onto the unforgiving surface of a rooftop. Pain exploded through his body as he collided with the hard concrete, his limbs protesting the impact with a symphony of agony.

Gasping for breath, Naruto struggled to push himself upright, his muscles trembling with the effort. Above him, the night sky stretched out in an endless expanse, dotted with twinkling stars that seemed to mock his plight.

Despite the throbbing ache in every fibre of his being, Naruto forced himself to his feet, his mind racing with questions and uncertainty. Where was he? How had he ended up here? And perhaps most importantly, how could he find his way back home?

Gritting his teeth against the pain, Naruto staggered forward, his movements unsteady as he surveyed his surroundings, The skyline of New York stretched out before him, but something felt off, like a puzzle with missing pieces.

His gaze fell upon a large screen flashing the breaking news headline: "Peter Parker, also known as Spider-Man, has died." Naruto's heart sank as he read the words, his mind struggling to comprehend the magnitude of what he was seeing.

"How... How can this be?" he muttered to himself, his voice barely audible over the din of the city below.

He stared at the flickering images on the screen, Naruto's mind raced with confusion as he tried to make sense of the surreal situation unfolding before him. How could Peter Parker, Spider-Man's alter ego, be dead when Naruto himself had just been swinging through the city as Spider-Man moments ago?

The dissonance between his own experiences and the reality presented on the news left Naruto feeling disoriented and unsettled. He cast a wary glance around the unfamiliar rooftop, searching for any clues that might shed light on his current predicament.

But the surroundings offered no answers, only a sense of eerie stillness that seemed to permeate the air. Naruto's instincts screamed at him to leave, to retreat from this strange place and find his way back to familiar territory.

With a furrowed brow and a sense of unease gnawing at his gut, Naruto took a tentative step forward, his senses on high alert as he prepared to navigate the unknown landscape that lay ahead. Whatever awaited him in this strange realm, one thing was certain he would need to tread carefully if he hoped to uncover the truth behind 'This' Peter Parker's shocking demise.

Chapter 7 - Spider-Man Dead End?

A/N

And that concludes this chapter. It's a bit sad that they broke up, but that's how things go sometimes with teenagers. As for whether they'll get back together, well, only time will tell—though I might have a few ideas up my sleeve! Now, we're moving on to the events of Into the Spider-Verse, which I've been eagerly anticipating.

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