Hey here's chapter 4 as well. I'm having fun writing this fic as well. Enjoy!
The journey back to the capital of Vantaria was filled with a mixture of relief and the lingering sense of something more profound. The Hall of Mirrors now lay safely behind them, fortified against the intruders, and the echoes of that chilling revelation had begun to settle into something bearable.
Naruto had spent the first few hours of the return journey in relative silence, his thoughts drifting over all that had happened. He leaned back against the edge of the open carriage, the landscape rolling by in a blur of green and misty grey. He sighed, his fingers drumming absentmindedly on his knees.
"Feeling sorry for yourself, are we?" Kurama's deep voice rumbled within his mind, half-amused and half-chiding.
Naruto smirked, his gaze lifting to the distant mountains, their peaks hidden by the ever-present veil of mist. "Not exactly, Kurama. Just… thinking." He paused, then added, "I never thought I'd end up in a place like this. I mean, it's got magic instead of chakra, mirrors that show other worlds, and princesses that shoot blue fire. And then there's the fact that I'm stuck here."
Kurama let out a snort. "You've faced worse than this, Naruto. You survived Madara, Kaguya, and the Fourth Great Ninja War. Compared to all that, being stuck in a world with a bunch of wizards is practically a vacation."
Naruto chuckled, his spirits lifting a bit at Kurama's words. "Yeah, I guess you're right. And it's not like I've lost anything that makes me who I am. I still have my chakra, my Rasengan, my Shadow Clones—and I've still got you." He grinned, adding with a hint of mischief, "Who knows, maybe I'll teach these wizards a few things about how we do it back home."
"Just don't forget," Kurama warned, though there was no malice in his voice, "this world has its own set of rules. You may have your chakra, but the connection to our world is gone. Whatever we do from now on, we need to be prepared for things to go differently."
Naruto nodded. He knew that despite his powers being intact, the loss of connection to his own realm meant he had limits he couldn't fully predict. He glanced around, then an idea popped into his head, and his eyes lit up. "Hey, I wonder if I can still summon the toads."
Kurama's curiosity was piqued as well. "Give it a try, then. Let's see if those frogs of yours are bound by the same rules."
Naruto shifted to a more open space in the carriage, catching Hatsuya's curious glance from across the way. "What are you doing?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Naruto grinned at her. "Just trying out something cool. Watch this!" He bit his thumb, the familiar sting of blood as he made the required hand signs. He slammed his palm onto the wooden floor of the carriage, calling out, "Summoning Jutsu!"
For a moment, there was nothing, and then a puff of smoke appeared, curling around his hand. Naruto's grin widened in anticipation, but as the smoke cleared, he frowned. Nothing had happened—no toad, not even a small one. Just the faint smell of burnt air and disappointment.
Hatsuya blinked, her expression a mixture of confusion and amusement. "Was… something supposed to happen?"
Naruto sighed, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, I was trying to summon one of my friends. Usually, a toad pops out, but…" He looked at his palm, the symbols from the summoning circle already fading away. "I guess that connection is gone too. Just like Kurama said."
Hatsuya smiled softly, her eyes filled with understanding. "Maybe your friends are connected to your old world, and without that link, they can't reach you here. But that doesn't mean you're alone." She gestured towards herself and the soldiers around them. "You've got new allies here, right?"
Naruto returned her smile, a warmth spreading through his chest. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Hatsuya." He gave her a thumbs-up, and she returned the gesture with a small laugh.
Kurama grumbled. "See, kid? You're not as lost as you think. Let's focus on learning the rules of this world instead of longing for the ones you knew."
Naruto nodded to himself, a sense of resolve building in his heart. If he couldn't rely on the old connections, then he would create new ones, forge new bonds, and continue to do what he did best: protect the people who needed him.
The gates of Vantaria opened before them, the city bustling with activity as usual. Naruto's eyes widened as they entered—there was something enchanting about this place. The magic that wove through every brick of the ancient city made it seem almost alive. Bright banners waved in the wind, shopkeepers called out their wares, and children ran through the streets, their laughter ringing out like bells.
"Alright, Naruto," Hatsuya said, jumping down from the carriage as it slowed. She turned to him, a twinkle in her eyes. "We're back, and I have someone I'd like you to meet."
Naruto hopped down beside her, his curiosity piqued. "Oh yeah? Who is it?"
Hatsuya smiled knowingly, leading him through the streets. "A friend of mine. I think you'll get along just fine."
They navigated through the winding streets of Vantaria, passing market stalls that sold shimmering crystals, enchanted trinkets, and even magical fruits that changed colors depending on your mood. Naruto stared at everything, wide-eyed, his excitement growing with each new sight.
Hatsuya finally led him to a small open square, where a young woman stood, leaning casually against a stone fountain. She had sharp features, bright green eyes, and her long black hair was tied back with a red ribbon. She wore a dark tunic with red accents, and a black katana with a red handle was strapped across her back.
"Akane!" Hatsuya called, waving. The young woman looked up, a grin spreading across her face.
"So this is the one causing all the fuss?" Akane asked, her eyes locking onto Naruto. She pushed herself off the fountain and approached, her gaze appraising him. "Naruto, right? I'm Akane, a friend of Hatsuya's."
Naruto grinned, holding out a hand. "Nice to meet you, Akane. I guess you heard about me, huh?"
Akane took his hand, her grip firm. "Oh, I heard a lot. You're the one who took on a Mistwyrm. And from another world, no less. You must be pretty impressive."
Naruto laughed, rubbing the back of his head. "I just do what I can. Honestly, it's all about teamwork, you know? Couldn't have done it without Hatsuya and General Marus."
Akane smirked, glancing at Hatsuya. "He's modest, too. I like him." She looked back at Naruto, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "So, how about we show you around the city? I'm sure you could use a new look if you're going to blend in around here."
Naruto looked down at his orange and black outfit, then back at the bustling streets filled with people in flowing robes, tunics, and magical adornments. He chuckled sheepishly. "Yeah, I guess I do stand out a bit, huh?"
Hatsuya nodded, her smile brightening. "Come on, Naruto. Let's get you something a little more… Vantarian."
xxx
The shopping district of Vantaria was vibrant and filled with an incredible array of clothing, ranging from traditional robes to more modern, fitted outfits that still carried the flair of magic within their designs. Hatsuya and Akane led Naruto from shop to shop, each store a burst of color and activity.
Akane, with her keen eye, picked out various options—dark tunics embroidered with runes, pants that seemed to shimmer with an enchantment to protect against the elements, and even a few cloaks that could apparently adjust their length at will. Naruto tried on outfit after outfit, each time emerging from the fitting room to the approving (and sometimes laughing) eyes of Hatsuya and Akane.
Finally, they settled on something that seemed to suit Naruto perfectly: a tunic of deep blue that matched the color of his eyes, with orange accents that paid homage to his original look. The sleeves bore intricate, spiraling embroidery that resembled the chakra swirls of the Uzumaki clan. Paired with fitted black trousers and sturdy boots, it was practical, comfortable, and fit well with the aesthetic of the kingdom.
Hatsuya clapped her hands together, her eyes shining with approval. "Now that's more like it! You look like you belong here, Naruto."
Akane nodded, a grin on her face. "And it's still got your style. I'd say you're ready to take on whatever comes next—at least without looking like a complete outsider."
Naruto looked at himself in the mirror, turning to get a better view of the outfit from every angle. The deep blue tunic and orange accents definitely had a flair that felt like him, but it also made him feel more like a part of this world—like he was stepping away from the past and into something new. The embroidery along the sleeves even felt like a nod to his heritage, and he couldn't help but smile, feeling the warmth of belonging in this strange place.
"Not bad," Naruto said, giving himself a thumbs-up. He turned to Hatsuya and Akane, grinning widely. "I guess I look the part now, huh?"
Hatsuya nodded enthusiastically, her eyes filled with approval. "You look great, Naruto. It really suits you. You'll fit right in around here now."
Akane, with her hands on her hips, gave a satisfied smirk. "You're definitely less conspicuous now. Plus, with that kind of look, you'll be able to go almost anywhere in the kingdom without people staring. At least, they won't be staring because of your clothes." She winked.
Naruto laughed, rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah, I've gotten used to standing out wherever I go. It's kinda my thing. But blending in for a change doesn't sound too bad either."
They paid for Naruto's new attire, the shopkeeper—a jovial older man with twinkling eyes—throwing in a dark hooded cloak at Hatsuya's request. "This one will keep you safe during travel," he said, his voice warm. "Woven with protection spells to guard against the elements and minor curses. A fine choice, young man."
Naruto bowed his head in thanks, his eyes wide with appreciation. "Thank you, sir. I really appreciate it."
The shopkeeper chuckled, waving him off. "Any friend of the Princess and Lady Akane is always welcome. Take care out there—Pergrande has many wonders, but it can be dangerous too."
As they stepped out of the shop and back into the bustling streets, Naruto felt lighter—like a burden had lifted from his shoulders. He was still grieving the loss of his home, the people he had left behind, but this small step—this new attire, the acceptance from the people around him—felt like a way to start over. It was a reminder that he could still be himself, even in a world that was so vastly different.
The trio wandered through the streets of Vantaria, taking in the sights and enjoying the lively atmosphere. They passed stalls selling enchanted trinkets, potions bubbling in glass vials, and even a stand where a wizard was demonstrating magical illusions—creating tiny dragons that flew in circles before vanishing in a puff of smoke. Naruto watched, his eyes wide with amazement, his curiosity getting the better of him.
"Whoa! Look at that!" Naruto exclaimed, pointing at the illusionary dragons. He watched as they twisted and looped through the air, their scales shimmering in shades of blue and gold. "I've never seen anything like that. It's not a jutsu, right?"
Hatsuya shook her head, smiling at his excitement. "No, it's magic—purely for show. There's no practical use, but it brings joy to people, and that's what makes it special."
Akane crossed her arms, nodding thoughtfully. "There's more to magic than just power and combat. Sometimes, it's about creativity, about making the world a little more beautiful." She looked at Naruto, her eyes studying him. "I get the feeling you know a lot about making people smile, too."
Naruto grinned, a warmth spreading through him at her words. "I've always believed that the best way to protect people is to bring them hope. Whether that's through fighting off the bad guys or just making them laugh… it's all important."
Hatsuya looked at Naruto, her expression softening. "You really are something else, Naruto. You come from a different world, but it feels like you understand us better than most."
Naruto shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed at the compliment. "I've just been through a lot, that's all. I know what it's like to feel alone, to feel like you don't belong. I don't want anyone else to feel that way if I can help it."
Akane and Hatsuya exchanged a look, their expressions touched by his sincerity. For a moment, the three of them stood in comfortable silence, the sounds of the bustling market filling the space between them. It was as if the weight of the world had lifted, if only for a while, and they were just friends enjoying the day.
xxx
Later in the day, Hatsuya insisted they stop at a small bakery at the edge of the market. The shop was cozy, with shelves filled with golden pastries and sweets that filled the air with a rich, comforting aroma. Naruto's mouth watered at the sight of a tray of small pastries dusted with sugar.
"These are a specialty of Vantaria," Hatsuya said, handing Naruto a warm, round pastry. "They're called crystal puffs. They're filled with a cream made from crystal fruit—try it!"
Naruto took a bite, his eyes widening as the sweet, creamy flavor exploded on his tongue. "Mmm! This is amazing!" he exclaimed, bits of sugar sticking to his lips. He immediately took another bite, savoring the unique taste. It was sweet but not overly so, with a hint of something cool and refreshing.
Akane laughed, taking a bite of her own pastry. "Glad you like it. You'd better get used to them, though—they're one of Hatsuya's favorite things, and she'll drag us here every chance she gets."
Hatsuya huffed, though her eyes twinkled with humor. "They're delicious! Besides, Naruto deserves a treat after everything he's been through."
Naruto finished his pastry, licking the sugar off his fingers, and smiled at the two of them. "Thanks, you two. I really needed this." He looked around, taking in the sights, the people, the warmth of the city. "I may not be able to go home, but I think… I think I'm going to be okay here."
Hatsuya reached out, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "You're not alone, Naruto. We're with you. And whatever the future brings, we'll face it together."
Akane raised her pastry, grinning. "To new adventures and new friends. Let's make this world a place worth fighting for."
Naruto raised his own hand, mimicking a toast, and grinned. "To new adventures. Believe it!"
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting the city in a warm golden glow, the trio made their way back towards the royal palace. Naruto, now fully clad in his new Vantarian outfit, felt an odd sense of belonging. He looked at the faces of the people they passed—merchants closing up shop, children playing in the fading light, citizens greeting each other with warmth—and felt a connection, a sense of home that he hadn't expected to find so soon.
Back at the palace gates, they paused, taking in the sight of the majestic building rising against the twilight sky. Hatsuya turned to Naruto, her eyes filled with kindness. "Tomorrow, we'll begin preparations for what comes next. There's still so much to understand about the Celestial Seal, about the enemies we faced in the Hall. But tonight… let's rest."
Naruto nodded, a sense of peace settling over him. He looked at Hatsuya and Akane, his new friends, and felt his heart swell with gratitude. "Yeah. Tonight, let's just enjoy the moment. Tomorrow, we get back to work."
Kurama's voice echoed in his mind, softer now, almost content. "You've found your place here, Naruto. This world may be different, but you'll make it yours—just like you always do."
Naruto smiled, feeling the warmth of Kurama's presence. He was ready for whatever lay ahead. With friends by his side and a new purpose in his heart, he knew that he would continue to grow and adapt, no matter what challenges came their way.
As they entered the palace and the doors closed behind them, Naruto felt something he hadn't felt since arriving in this world: hope. Not just for the future, but for the life he would build here—a life filled with friends, adventure, and new beginnings.
This is just a light hearted chapter. Letting Naruto getting support of being stuck in a new world. Thanks for reading!
