(See notes at the end of the chapter)

Chapter 10 – Spider-Verse Part 3

Naruto and Gwen returned to May's house, the weight of their recent encounter still heavy on Naruto's heart. As they entered, Peter looked up from where he was tinkering with a new gadget.

"Did you manage to check on Miles?" Peter asked, his tone hopeful.

Naruto shook his head. "No, I couldn't find him," he replied, his voice tinged with worry.

As the group scattered, each finding ways to keep busy before the Kingpin gala, Naruto found himself talking more with Gwen and Peni. The three of them sat in the corner, sharing stories from their respective dimensions.

"So, what's your life like, Peni?" Naruto asked, genuinely curious. "I mean, piloting a giant robot and all?"

Peni's eyes lit up as she started explaining. "It's pretty intense. My SP/dr is my best friend. We fight together, side by side, against all sorts of villains. My dad built SP/dr before he passed away, so piloting it means everything to me. It's like carrying on his legacy."

Naruto nodded, fascinated. "That sounds incredible. In my world, I grew up without my parents. My grandpa raised me, and he was amazing. But being Spider-Man, it's my way of honoring my parents and making sure their sacrifice wasn't in vain."

Gwen listened intently, then added, "It's really interesting to hear everyone's stories. We all have such different paths, but we end up in the same place, fighting the same battles."

"Have you ever met another Naruto before?" Naruto asked Gwen, curious about her experiences.

Gwen shook her head. "No, I haven't. It's actually the first time I've heard that name."

Peni chimed in, "Same here. It's not a common name in my dimension, either."

Peter, overhearing the conversation, joined in. "Now that I think about it, I don't have any connection to a Naruto Uzumaki in my world either. It's strange."

Naruto's expression turned sombre. "I saw my own grave not too long ago," he admitted. "In this dimension, I died. My mother was there, mourning me. It was... heart breaking."

Gwen and Peni exchanged glances, their expressions softening. Gwen put a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "That must have been really hard. But you did the right thing by not revealing yourself. She's grieving and seeing you would have been too much."

Naruto nodded, his eyes misting over. "In my world, my best friend is Peter Parker. The day I got my powers, the spider was going to bite him. I wonder how different things would be if it had."

The room fell silent as everyone digested this new piece of information. It added another layer of mystery to their already complex situation.

"Maybe it was fate," Gwen suggested, breaking the silence. "Or some kind of multiversal anomaly."

"Who knows," Naruto said with a shrug.

Peter's eyes widened. "Wow, that's... heavy. I can't imagine how things would have turned out. But you're here now, and you're doing amazing things."

Peni smiled. "Yeah, you're making a difference, Naruto. Just like all of us."

Naruto smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie and understanding with his new friends. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot."

As they continued to share their stories and experiences, the bond between them grew stronger. They knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united by their shared mission and the strength of their friendship.

Hours later, they found themselves back in the main room, discussing their next move.

"We have to be ready for the Kingpin gala," Peter said, his voice determined. "It's our best chance to get to the collider and stop this once and for all."

Naruto nodded. "Right. We can't let him activate it. Too much is at stake."

Gwen placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "We'll get through this, Naruto. We have to."

Peni looked up from her work on the passkey. "I'm almost done here. We just need to make sure we stick to the plan."

With renewed determination, the team prepared for the upcoming mission, knowing that the fate of the multiverse rested on their shoulders. Together, they would face whatever came their way, ready to protect their worlds and each other.

The group headed out of the spider cave and into May's living room, Naruto was examining his new mask, which Peni had crafted with special lenses that granted him the ability to see farther and switch to heat vision and night vision. He marveled at the ingenuity and craftsmanship that went into it, feeling a surge of gratitude for Peni's skills.

Suddenly, the door burst open, and Miles came rushing in with a worried expression. "Guys, we have a problem," he said, breathless.

Peter turned to him, immediately on edge. "What's wrong, Miles?"

"It's my uncle... the Prowler. He's working for Fisk," Miles blurted out, his voice tinged with fear and urgency.

Naruto's eyes widened. "Your uncle? Are you sure?"

Miles nodded frantically. "I saw him. He tried to kill me."

Peter instantly asked, "Were you followed?"

Miles hesitated, looking uncertain. "I... I don't know."

Before anyone could react, the sound of footsteps and voices grew louder outside. The door was kicked open again, this time revealing Doctor Octopus, Tombstone, Scorpion, and the Prowler. They had come to retrieve the new USB stick.

"There they are," Doctor Octopus sneered, her mechanical arms extending menacingly. "Get them!"

Chaos erupted in the living room as the villains charged. Naruto quickly put on his new mask.

Peter, now fully alert, shouted, "Everyone, spread out! Don't let them corner us!"

Gwen flipped over the couch, landing a swift kick to Tombstone's chest. "Miles, stay close to us!" she called out.

Miles, trying to process the shock of seeing his uncle among the enemies, found himself face to face with Prowler. "Please... you don't have to do this!" he pleaded.

Prowler's resolve hardened. "It's too late for that." he said, launching an attack with his gauntlets.

Naruto intercepted, webbing Prowler's arm and yanking him away from Miles. "Leave the kid alone," he said firmly.

Peni, using her SP/dr suit, engaged with Doctor Octopus, matching her mechanical prowess. "We need to secure the USB stick!" she shouted, trying to fend off Doctor Octopus's relentless attacks.

Spider-Ham and Spider-Man Noir were taking on Scorpion and Tombstone, their unique fighting styles adding an unpredictable element to the battle. "Always wanted to squash a scorpion," Spider-Ham quipped, dodging a venomous tail strike.

As the fight intensified, Naruto's new mask lenses gave him a significant advantage, allowing him to coordinate with the others more effectively. "Gwen, on your left!" he called out, just in time for her to avoid a strike from Tombstone.

Peter was grappling with Doctor Octopus, trying to keep her from reaching the USB stick. "You're not getting your hands on this!" he growled, webbing her eyes to blind her temporarily.

As the battle raged on in Aunt May's house, the once cosy home now a chaotic battleground. Walls crumbled, furniture shattered, and the noise of the fight echoed through the neighbourhood. The Spider-People fought valiantly against their enemies, but the villains were relentless.

Again Miles found himself grappling with Prowler. The battle took them out of the house and up to the roof. Prowler, determined and deadly, cornered Miles. His gauntlet glowed ominously as he prepared to strike the final blow.

"No! Wait!" Miles shouted, tearing off his mask to reveal his face. "It's me, Uncle Aaron. It's Miles."

Prowler froze, his eyes wide with shock and horror. "Miles?" His voice trembled as he processed the realization. The mask that had dehumanized his prey fell away, revealing the boy he loved as a nephew.

"Uncle Aaron, you don't have to do this," Miles pleaded, his voice breaking.

For a moment, the hardened criminal vanished, replaced by a man horrified by what he had almost done. Aaron's hand shook as he pulled the mask back down over Miles' face. "Go, Miles. Get out of here."

Before they could react, a gunshot rang out. Kingpin, enraged and ruthless, had taken aim and fired. Aaron stumbled, blood pouring from his wound. Miles caught him, his hands shaking.

"No! Uncle Aaron!" Miles cried, trying to stem the bleeding.

Naruto and Peter, who had fought their way to the roof just in time to witness the act, rushed to Miles' side. Naruto knelt beside Aaron, his heart heavy. "Miles, you have to go. Now."

"But he's dying!" Miles sobbed, clutching his uncle.

Kingpin's voice echoed from below, shouting orders to his men. The situation was growing dire. Peter grabbed Miles' shoulder. "We'll cover you. Go!"

Miles, his heart heavy with grief and guilt, carried Uncle Aaron's limp body into a nearby alleyway. The dimly lit space provided a moment of privacy amidst the chaos. Aaron's breaths were shallow, his life slipping away with each passing second.

"Miles," Aaron whispered, his voice weak. "I'm sorry, kid. I never wanted this for you."

"Don't talk like that," Miles pleaded, tears streaming down his face. "You're gonna be okay. Just hold on."

Aaron managed a faint smile, his eyes filled with a mix of regret and pride. "You're a good kid, Miles. Better than me. You… you keep doing what's right. No matter what."

With those final words, Aaron's eyes closed, and he took his last breath. Miles clutched him tightly, his sobs echoing through the empty alleyway. The loss was overwhelming, a heavy weight pressing down on his young shoulders.

Just then, Officer Jefferson Davis, Miles' father, arrived at the scene. He spotted the figure dressed as Spider-Man kneeling over Aaron's body and his heart sank. To him, it looked like the vigilante had killed his brother.

"Step away from him!" Jefferson shouted, his voice filled with anger and pain. "Put your hands up!"

Miles, still in shock, turned to face his father. The grief in his eyes was palpable, but he couldn't reveal his identity. He activated his camouflage, turning invisible, and bolted out of the alleyway, leaving his father behind.

"Damn it!" Jefferson cursed, watching the invisible figure disappear. He immediately radioed in, his voice trembling. "This is Officer Davis. We have a new Spider-Man, and he's dangerous. Put out an APB."

Miles ran through the city, his mind a whirlwind of emotions. He had lost his uncle, his father believed he was a murderer, and now he was a fugitive. The weight of his responsibilities pressed down on him like never before. He found a secluded spot to catch his breath, his thoughts racing.

"You keep doing what's right. No matter what." Aaron's words echoed in his mind, a beacon of guidance amidst the turmoil.

Wiping away his tears, Miles took a deep breath and steeled himself. He knew what he had to do. He couldn't give up, not now. He had to prove himself as Spider-Man, not just for Uncle Aaron, but for everyone counting on him.

Miles slumped onto his bed at the Visions Academy dorm room, exhaustion and grief evident on his face. The events of the past few hours weighed heavily on him, and he struggled to process the loss of his Uncle Aaron. The door creaked open, and the other six Spiders entered quietly, their expressions sombre.

"We came to say goodbye," Gwen said softly, her eyes filled with understanding. "We're heading to the supercollider."

Miles looked up, his face a mixture of sorrow and determination. "I should be the one to shut it down," he insisted, his voice trembling with emotion.

Naruto stepped forward, his eyes filled with empathy. "Miles, we know what you're going through," he began, his voice gentle but firm. "We've all lost someone close to us, someone we couldn't save."

The others nodded in agreement. Peni spoke up next, her mechanical companion SP/dr whirring softly beside her. "My dad... he died because of a mistake I made. It's something I'll carry with me forever."

Spider-Man Noir added, his voice low and serious. "I lost my Uncle Ben. He was my rock, my guide. It's a pain that never really goes away."

Spider-Ham chimed in, his usually cheerful demeanour subdued. "My Aunt May... she was everything to me. Losing her... it broke something inside me."

Peter B. Parker, placed a hand on Miles' shoulder. "And my MJ... she left because I couldn't balance being Spider-Man and Peter Parker. The guilt, the pain... it's something we all share."

Miles looked around at the faces of the people who understood his pain better than anyone else could. Naruto stepped closer, his expression earnest. "I lost my grandpa, Jiraiya. He was my mentor, my father figure. It shattered me, but it also taught me what it means to be Spider-Man."

"But I have to do this," Miles insisted, his voice growing stronger. "I need to be the one to stop the collider."

Peter sighed, a mixture of frustration and compassion in his eyes. "Miles, if you can activate your bio electric ability or turn invisible on command, then we'll let you go. But you can't, not yet."

Miles tried, his face contorted with concentration, but nothing happened. Peter shook his head and webbed Miles up, restraining him gently but firmly. "I'm sorry, kid," Peter said softly. "But you're not ready."

Naruto stayed behind as the others prepared to leave. He crouched down beside Miles, his mask off, revealing his sincere expression. "Miles, I'm sorry for what happened to your uncle. I hope everything works out for you. This... this is what being Spider-Man means. It's about making sacrifices, doing what's right, even when it's hard."

Miles looked up at Naruto, his eyes filled with a mixture of frustration and understanding. "But how do I know when I'm ready?"

Naruto smiled gently, placing a hand on Miles' shoulder. "You'll know, Miles. It's a leap of faith. Once you take it, you'll understand why we do this."

With that, Naruto put his mask back on and jumped out the window, joining the others as they made their way to Fisk Tower. Miles, left alone, struggled against the webs that bound him, his mind racing with thoughts of what he needed to do. As the sounds of the city filtered into the room, he knew he had to find a way to prove himself, not just to the others, but to himself.

The Spider-Gang moved swiftly and silently through the city, their eyes set on Fisk Tower. The night air was crisp, filled with the hum of distant traffic and the occasional blaring of horns. Each member of the team was lost in their thoughts, the weight of their mission pressing down on them like a tangible force.

As they approached the towering skyscraper, they scaled the walls with practiced ease, their movements fluid and coordinated. Naruto led the way, his eyes sharp and focused as they reached the rooftop, peering through the glass windows at the lavish gala below.

Inside, the guests mingled in their finest attire, oblivious to the danger lurking outside. At the centre of attention stood Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin, his imposing figure dominating the room. His voice carried through the air, filled with false sorrow and feigned sincerity.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Fisk began, "we gather here tonight to remember the hero this city lost, Spider-Man. But we must also look to the future, to the possibilities that lie ahead."

Gwen, crouched beside Naruto, clenched her fists. "What a pig," she muttered under her breath.

Spider-Ham, ever the jokester, couldn't resist. "Hey, I'm right here," he whispered, trying to lighten the mood.

Naruto's eyes widened as he noticed something peculiar. The waiters, moving gracefully among the guests, were all dressed in Spider-Man costumes. An idea began to form in his mind.

Spider-Noir, voiced what they were all thinking. "Surely, it's not that easy..."

A few moments later, they were all inside, blending seamlessly with the other waiters. Each member of the Spider-Gang donned a their Spider-Man costumes, carrying trays of hors d'oeuvres and glasses of champagne.

Naruto, holding a tray aloft, couldn't help but chuckle. "Yep, it's that easy," he said, sharing a grin with Peter B. Parker.

As they weaved through the crowd, their eyes on their goal: the collider. Peter B. Parker's eyes, however, were drawn to a familiar face. Mary Jane, stood not far away, looking every bit as graceful as he remembered. He couldn't resist the pull.

"I'm going to talk to her," Peter said, determination in his voice.

Gwen tried to stop him, her hand on his arm. "Peter, we don't have time for this, It's not your MJ."

But Peter was already moving, his heart pounding in his chest. As he turned around, he found himself face to face with Mary Jane. She looked up, a hint of confusion in her eyes.

"Could we get some extra bread, please?" she asked, not recognizing him in the waiter disguise.

Peter swallowed hard, his throat dry. "I'm so sorry," he began, his voice trembling. "For everything I ruined between us. I...I just wanted to say that."

Mary Jane looked more confused than ever, but there was a softness in her eyes. "I don't understand..."

Peter forced a smile, blinking back tears. "I'll get you that bread," he said, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. The catharsis of the moment helped Peter regain a lot of his lost confidence.

Meanwhile, Naruto had been observing the scene from a distance. His heart skipped a beat as he realized who Peter was talking to. "What's the hold up?" he called out, but his voice faltered when he saw the older Mary Jane. His eyes widened, and he let out a low whistle. "Oh wow, she's even hotter when she's older..."

Gwen rolled her eyes and sighed. "Not him too," she muttered. Before Naruto could do anything more, Gwen pushed him away, steering him back on track. "Come on, we've got a mission."

The group refocused, making their way toward the collider with renewed determination. The path was clear, and their objective was in sight. As they moved, they exchanged silent nods, each understanding the gravity of the situation.

Spider-Ham's distraction worked perfectly, causing a commotion that drew the attention of the guests and security alike. As the chaos ensued, Naruto, Peter, Gwen, and the rest of the Spider-Gang slipped through the crowd, their eyes locked on the entrance to the collider room.

"We're almost there," Naruto whispered, his voice steady. "Let's get this done."

Peter glanced back one last time at Mary Jane, his resolve strengthened by their brief encounter. He knew what he had to do. "For the multiverse," he said softly.

The Spider-Gang made their way through the labyrinthine corridors of Fisk Tower, their hearts pounding with anticipation. The hum of the collider grew louder with each step, a constant reminder of the urgency of their mission. Just as they reached the massive doors leading to the collider, they were confronted by a formidable sight: Doctor Octopus, Tombstone, and Scorpion stood in their path, ready for battle.

"Looks like we've got company," Naruto muttered, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene.

Doctor Octopus sneered, her mechanical arms whirling menacingly. "You think you can just waltz in here and destroy everything we've worked for?"

"We've come too far to back down now," Peter B. Parker said, determination in his voice.

The ensuing battle was chaotic. Naruto, Peter, Gwen, Peni, Spider-Ham, and Spider-Noir each faced off against the enforcers with everything they had. Blows were exchanged, webs shot through the air, and the room echoed with the sounds of clashing metal and grunts of effort.

Naruto found himself up against Doctor Octopus, her tentacles lashing out at him with frightening speed. He dodged and weaved, his Spider-Sense working overtime to keep him one step ahead of her relentless attacks. But she was fast and ruthless, and he was struggling to keep up.

Gwen faced off against Tombstone, her movements fluid and precise. But Tombstone was relentless, his attacks fuelled by sheer brute strength. She found herself pushed to her limits, barely managing to dodge his lethal strikes.

Peter B. Parker and Spider-Ham were double-teamed by Scorpion and another enforcer, the sheer brute strength of their opponents nearly overwhelming them. Peter fought with the desperation of someone who knew what was at stake, but even his experienced moves were barely enough to keep the enforcers at bay.

Peni and Spider-Noir fought side by side against the other enforcers, their teamwork and contrasting styles creating a formidable defence. But the sheer number of their enemies and the ferocity of the attacks were taking their toll.

"We're getting nowhere!" Spider-Noir shouted, struggling to fend off a barrage of punches.

"We have to find a way to turn this around!" Naruto yelled back, ducking under a swinging tentacle and firing a web at Doctor Octopus's face, momentarily blinding her.

Gwen glanced around, her mind racing. "We need to split them up! They're too strong together!"

With renewed determination, the Spider-Gang shifted tactics, trying to isolate their opponents. Naruto managed to lead Doctor Octopus away from the others, using his agility to stay just out of reach of her grasping tentacles. Gwen used her acrobatics to lead Tombstone into a more confined space, hoping to use the environment to her advantage.

Peter and Spider-Ham doubled down on their efforts, using every trick they knew to keep Scorpion and the other enforcer off balance. Peni and Spider-Noir fought back to back, their movements synchronized as they held their ground.

Despite their best efforts, the battle raged on, and it was clear they were being pushed to their limits. The enforcers were relentless, their combined strength and skill threatening to overwhelm the Spider-Gang as the pressure was getting overwhelming.

Doctor Octopus, Tombstone, and Scorpion fought with a ferocity that threatened to overwhelm them at any moment. Despite their best efforts, the Spider-People were slowly being pushed back.

Naruto found himself caught in Doctor Octopus's grasp, her mechanical arms wrapping around him like a vice. She lifted him into the air, slamming him into the ground repeatedly. Pain shot through his body with each impact, and he struggled to break free.

"You're all outmatched!" Doctor Octopus sneered, her grip tightening. "You can't win this fight!"

Naruto gritted his teeth, refusing to give in. He glanced around, seeing his friends also struggling. Gwen was barely holding her own against Tombstone, Peter and Spider-Ham were being pushed back by Scorpion, and Peni and Spider-Noir were desperately trying to fend off the remaining enforcers.

Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, a sudden burst of electricity crackled through the air. Doctor Octopus's mechanical arms jerked uncontrollably, and she began to hit herself repeatedly.

"Who did that?" she snarled, looking around in confusion.

Out of nowhere, an invisible figure appeared, delivering a powerful kick to Doctor Octopus's face. She staggered back, releasing her hold on Naruto. The figure became visible, revealing Miles in his own Spider-Man suit.

"Miles!" Naruto shouted, a grin spreading across his face. "I knew you could do it!"

Miles landed next to Naruto, his eyes filled with determination. "I'm here to help."

Peter swung down beside them, his expression one of pride. "I'm so proud of you, Miles. I feel like I want kids now," he joked, making Naruto laugh despite the chaos around them.

"It's not over yet," Naruto said, getting back to his feet. "Let's get ready, guys."

The Spider-Gang regrouped, their spirits lifted by Miles's arrival. With renewed determination, they charged back into the fray. Miles's bioelectricity and invisibility gave them a much-needed edge, catching the enforcers off guard.

Naruto and Miles worked together to take down Doctor Octopus, their coordinated attacks keeping her off balance. Gwen and Peni teamed up against Tombstone, using their agility and teamwork to outmanoeuvre him. Peter and Spider-Ham focused on Scorpion, their combined efforts gradually wearing him down.

As the battle raged on, the tide began to turn in their favour. The Spider-Gang fought with everything they had, their resolve unshaken. Naruto's movements were a blur, his attacks precise and relentless. Miles used his abilities to disrupt the enforcers, creating openings for his friends to strike.

"Keep pushing!" Naruto shouted, dodging a swing from Doctor Octopus's tentacle. "We can do this!"

Suddenly, Kingpin activated the collider, and the entire room descended into chaos. Bright, swirling lights filled the space as different cars, buildings, and even fragments of other dimensions started to spill through the portal. The ground trembled as the collider's power intensified, throwing everyone into disarray.

Naruto's senses went into overdrive as he tried to keep track of his friends amidst the pandemonium. Suddenly, he spotted Peni being grabbed by Scorpion. The mechanical villain's claws were tearing into her SP/dr suit, leaving it in tatters. Naruto's mind flashed with thoughts of his own limitations, the times he'd held back. But not now. Not anymore.

"No more holding back," he muttered, his resolve hardening.

With a burst of speed, Naruto rushed Scorpion, landing a series of brutal blows that left the villain reeling. He didn't stop, his fists flying as he unleashed a beatdown on Scorpion, a fury driven by the need to protect his friend. Finally, Scorpion collapsed, defeated, but the damage was done. Peni's suit was ruined, its mechanical parts scattered and broken.

Peni crawled out of the wreckage, tears streaming down her face. Naruto immediately rushed to her side, wrapping her in a protective hug. "I'm so sorry, Peni," he whispered, his voice filled with regret.

Peni clung to him, her small frame shaking with sobs. "That was the last thing from my dad," she cried.

Naruto's heart ached for her. "I know, Peni. But you're strong, and you can build another one. Maybe even better than before."

Peni looked up at him, her eyes red and puffy. She nodded slowly, the hint of a determined smile forming on her lips. "Yeah, maybe I can."

Meanwhile, Miles, Gwen, and Peter had managed to take down Doctor Octavius in a flurry of webbing and acrobatics. Spider-Ham and Spider-Noir teamed up against Tombstone, their contrasting styles complementing each other perfectly until they had the villain subdued and webbed up.

Miles took the passkey from Peter, determination shining in his eyes. "Watch this," he said, a confident grin spreading across his face. He swung through the debris and wreckage, navigating the chaos with ease. He landed perfectly on the ceiling, right next to the collider's controls.

Peter watched in awe. "Wow, we taught him that, right?" he asked, still in disbelief.

Gwen shook her head, a proud smile on her face. "Nope. He definitely didn't learn that from us."

Miles called down to the others. "Guys, get up here! I'm about to send everyone home!"

Naruto, still holding Peni, looked down at her and nodded. "Let's go."

He carried her to the rest of the gang, each step careful but determined. As they reached the ceiling, Peni wiped her tears away, her resolve returning. "I'll build a new suit," she said, more to herself than anyone else.

Naruto smiled. "That's the spirit."

With everyone gathered, Miles prepared to use the passkey. "Alright, let's do this."

They all watched, a mix of hope and anticipation in their eyes. The collider roared, the lights intensifying as Miles activated the passkey.

With the portal open, Peni was the first to go, a bittersweet smile on her face. "I'm happy we all met," she said, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and sadness. "Thank you for everything."

Turning to Naruto, she added, "And thank you, Naruto. You've helped me more than you know." With a gentle smile, she leaned in and kissed his cheek. "Goodbye," she whispered.

Naruto felt a warm blush spread across his cheeks "You're going to do great things, Peni," he said softly.

Peni smiled through her tears. "You too, Naruto," as she jumped into her portal, disappearing into the swirling vortex.

Next was Spider-Noir. He stood tall, looking at each of them with a sense of deep affection. "I love you all," he declared, his voice steady. "And I'm keeping this cube thing. I don't understand it, but I'll figure it out."

Gwen and Miles chuckled. "Yeah, you will one day," Gwen said with a grin.

With a dramatic flair, Spider-Noir tipped his hat and jumped into the portal, vanishing from sight.

Spider-Ham stepped up next. "Thanks for the adventure, guys!" he said cheerfully, giving a little wave before leaping into the portal.

Gwen took a moment, removing her mask and letting her blonde hair fall free. "Do I get to like the hairdo now?" Miles asked, his tone playful.

Gwen smiled. "I'm older than you by 15 months," she reminded him.

Miles grinned. "Einstein said time was relative, right?"

Gwen's smile widened. "Nice," she acknowledged, clearly impressed. Miles held out his hand.

"Friends?" he asked.

"Yeah," Gwen replied, shaking his hand. "See you around, Spider-Man." With a final smile, she jumped into her portal, leaving only a shimmering afterglow.

Naruto and Peter, standing together, looked at Miles with proud eyes. Peter clapped a hand on Miles's shoulder. "You've come a long way, kid," he said, his voice filled with pride.

Naruto nodded, smiling. "Yeah, you did great."

Miles looked at both of them, a mixture of determination and gratitude in his eyes. "Thanks, guys."

With the others gone, Naruto and Peter, the people who had started this journey. Miles got Naruto's portal ready. As Naruto looked into the swirling vortex, he turned to face Peter and Miles.

"You know," Naruto began, his voice carrying a mix of emotions, "when I first came here, I was at one of my lowest points. My own MJ had broken up with me, and my time as Spider-Man wasn't going well. But... I'm happy I came here."

He looked at Peter, a deep respect in his eyes. "I've learned a lot from you, Peter. I know what to do next when I return."

Peter nodded, a smile of understanding on his face.

Naruto then turned to Miles, holding out his fist. "You remind me of my younger self, Miles. I feel like a big brother to you."

Miles grinned and fist-bumped Naruto. "I feel like you're an older brother to me, too."

Naruto's smile widened as he grabbed both of them into one last big hug. "Hopefully, we can meet again," he said, his voice full of warmth and hope.

Peter gave him a reassuring nod. "Take the leap of faith, Naruto. Talk to your friends about your feelings."

Naruto nodded, feeling a sense of peace. "I will, make sure to stop the collider. Goodbye, guys."

With that, he took a deep breath and, with a final wave, jumped into the portal. The swirling vortex enveloped him, and he was gone, leaving Peter and Miles standing together, watching as the gateway to another dimension closed.

Chapter 10 – Spider-Verse Part 3 End

A/N

Well guys, that's the end of the first Spider-Verse arc. From some reviews, I see people enjoyed Peni, so I wanted to focus more on her since everyone uses Spider-Gwen a lot. I wanted to be a little different. Peni will be very challenging to write (if you know, you know), but I'm up for it. We will see more of her in the future.

I will be adapting Across the Spider-Verse at some point as well, just not sure when. It depends on whether I do a timeskip to make it come faster. I haven't decided yet.

I just want to say thanks for reading this story. It means a lot to me that people enjoy it. When I started this story, I had so much planned, but I was following too much of my favorite version of Spider-Man.

So I took a step back to rewrite a lot of things, and in doing so, I found that my original plan wasn't the best. So, I want to thank everyone who gave me advice in PMs or reviews.

I was so dead set on doing 10k words a chapter that I felt any shorter was a failure. But now I know that as long as the chapter is well-written, any length is fine.

In the next chapter, Naruto will be back and ready to face everyone. But not everything is the same as when he left. As I wonder just how much time has passed since he left his dimension? :)

Sorry for the long note, but I just wanted to explain some things.

One more time,

thanks a lot for reading.

Until next time,

byebye!