A/N

Hellooo everyone!

Glad to see everyone's happy that we're back up and running again, fresh from Switzerland and ready to go!

This chapter is juicy!

There's so much to do, so much to see, you know how it is! But first, let's dive into some reviews since it's been a while -

taiwoeretan1 – I'm definitely trying to diverge from canon in my own way while keeping the key events from the season. You'll see more of that balance in this chapter.

arcenasangelo05 – Noxus, huh? A mini-arc? Naruto fights Noxus when? Maybe, lol. And yes, Naruto will mature as he steps into more of a leadership role. As for the AU, I've got something special in the works...

Mando-Vet – More goodness is on the way just wait.

killrsloth – That's exactly my goal: keeping the story natural and flowing seamlessly. Will Naruto hide? Hmm... maybe, maybe not. But trust me, the AUs will be fire.

Jagsboy – No spoilers, but you're definitely cooking, dude. You're kinda on the right track.

The Crazy Boxboy – Glad you're enjoying it!

PudgySasquatch – One thing about me is I love chaos. May chaos take the world! Fr though, I thrive on madness and sadness let it all burn!

Lichi Sechino – Lol, Princess Isha is adorable, right? And yes, King and Queen just like my old HoT fic! I remember you liked that one. Shame I couldn't keep it going.

amavgupta0 – You're absolutely right. Naruto doesn't have clear goals yet it's all about Jinx for him right now. But that's why we're here, to develop the characters and help him find his purpose.

KaidoFett – We're back indeed! Singed and Vander will be making appearances next chapter.

Ravage88atlas – A lot happens in this chapter, but you're right more trouble is brewing for Zaun. The big question is, will they back down or fight?

Archer headass – Happy to be back! It's so cool to see you're still reading, especially since you were one of the first to check out this story. My goal is to blend original content with the main plot, and you'll see more of that as we progress. Caitlyn's anger is about to hit new heights, and Naruto will have his big moments, just like Silco. As for Vander... well, let's wait and see! Cute stuff? Maybe. Or maybe just death. Who knows? Well... I do.

Paradoxity – Doing my best to shake things up. . *cough* May chaos take the world! May chaos take the world!

Bambombie – Thank you, glorious reader, for enjoying my story! Hehe.

FanFictionman43 – Happy to be back! You'll definitely see the changes, along with more Naruto and Jinx moments, and, of course, Isha. But time is running out, so let's make it count.

Nicolo Bezzetto – Want a war? Maybe. Idk. Read this chapter and find out the title kind of gives it away, lol.

niideadequenombremecoloco – Mercy, these chapters are super long. I'm doing my best to keep it engaging, though!

Sons of Death – King, Queen, and Princess... what a lineup!

That's it for the reviews!

A few quick notes -

Everyone's asking about the AU content, and while I won't spoil anything, I will say this, my AU will have its own arc, probably 3–5 chapters. Expect some good stuff.

Also, I'm a sucker for madness and sadness. I love exploring the mental side of things, and the ending I've planned should please everyone. But, as always, things can change!

Enough talking let's get to it!

Chapter 17 - The Spoils of War

Naruto stood silently before Silco's grave, a makeshift marker hidden in the depths of Zaun where no topsider would dare tread. The crude engraving on the stone a symbol of the undercity stood stark against the cold, muddy dirt. Beyond it, Piltover's skyline gleamed with its oppressive brilliance, a constant reminder of the world above that seemed determined to crush everything below.

Can someone like me really change anything?

Can you redeem yourself after the blood on your hands has dried?

Or do you just keep piling it on until there's no hope left at all?

The thought twisted in his chest, wrapping around the crystalline core embedded there, the cold reminder of his own corruption and second chance. Naruto's hand absentmindedly brushed against it as his eyes narrowed at the glimmering city in the distance.

They call me a monster. A demon. Maybe they're not wrong. I've killed, hurt people, watched lives crumble because of my choices... because of her choices too.

His thoughts flickered to Jinx. But if we're monsters… what does that make them? The ones who turn their backs, who step on us to keep their golden streets clean?

Naruto crouched down, tracing a finger over the engraved stone with Silco's name.

Silco… You believed in this place. Believed that Zaun could be more than a shadow under their heel. You gave me a purpose when I didn't have one, showed me how to fight for something bigger than myself. And now, here I am, trying to live up to your dream.

But how do I redeem myself in the eyes of a world that only sees us as filth?

The wind shifted, carrying the acrid scent of smoke and chemicals from the deeper slums. Naruto closed his eyes, trying to steady his breathing. His mind flickered with images his mother's face from the hologram, Jinx's grin when she smiled just for him, Isha's innocent eyes looking up at him with trust he wasn't sure he deserved. And the countless faces of those he had hurt, haunted by his past choices.

Redemption, he thought bitterly, standing again and clenching his fists. What does that even mean? If I save one life, does it outweigh the ones I've taken? If I fight to protect Zaun, does it erase what I've done for it?

His eyes drifted back to Piltover, its lights glinting like stars in the polluted night sky. They'll come for us. Caitlyn, Vi, the whole damn Council... and that woman. They'll tear this place apart if it means getting to me and Jinx. And I… I'll do what I have to. Because in the end, someone has to stand for this place. Someone has to believe in its future.

He exhaled sharply, the electricity in his veins sparking faintly as his resolve hardened. Silco, you thought I could lead. Jinx thinks I can protect her. Isha looks at me like I'm some kind of hero. But maybe I can't be any of those things. Maybe all I can do is survive long enough to give this city a chance... a real chance.

Naruto turned away from the grave, his hood casting a shadow over his glowing eyes. His voice was a low whisper, carried off by the wind as he began walking back into the chaos of Zaun.

"I'll redeem myself in my own way. Not for them. For you… and for her."

Naruto sat at a corner table in the Last Drop, his hood drawn low, the faint blue glow of his core illuminating the shadows around him. The usually boisterous bar was quieter than usual, the weight of Zaun's current state pressing down on everyone inside. Across from him, Sevika nursed a glass of amber liquid, her new prosthetic arm resting heavily on the table courtesy of Jinx and Isha. The faint clinking of glasses and hushed murmurs of the few patrons present provided a muted backdrop to their conversation.

"How do we make it better, Sevika?" Naruto asked, his voice low, but the urgency in it unmistakable. He ran a hand through his hair, his glowing blue eyes meeting hers. "Zaun's tearing itself apart. Every chembaron is clawing to fill the void Silco left behind. They're dividing the city instead of uniting it. If this keeps up, we'll all be dead before Piltover even has to lift a finger."

Sevika leaned back in her chair, her gaze steady as she swirled her drink. "You're not wrong. But it's not like this place was ever united, Naruto. Silco kept them in line, sure, but only because they feared him. And now…" She gestured around the room with her glass, a bitter smirk tugging at her lips. "There's no one to fear."

Naruto sighed, his hands balling into fists on the table. "I don't want them to fear me, Sevika. That's not how we fix this. We need to rally them together, not scare them into submission. Zaun deserves better."

Sevika raised an eyebrow, her expression sceptical but not dismissive. "Rally them together? And how do you plan to do that, huh? You think those Chem-Barons are going to hold hands and sing songs of unity because you asked nicely?"

"I'm not saying it's going to be easy," Naruto shot back, his tone sharp. "But there has to be a way. We can't just sit back and watch them destroy each other. If we don't step in, that woman will just march in with her army. We'll be doing her job for her."

"Wait... you're telling me some woman is planning to march an army down here?" Sevika asked, her tone sceptical but laced with concern.

Naruto nodded, his expression grim. "I've seen her, she's not bluffing. She's got the soldiers, the power, and the resources to wipe Zaun off the map. If Piltover doesn't finish us first, she will... if they don't join forces first."

Sevika exhaled, her brow furrowing as she processed the information. "We don't have the numbers to fight back, let alone the resources. This city's already tearing itself apart without Piltover breathing down our necks."

Naruto turned his glowing eyes to her, his voice heavy. "That's exactly the problem. Zaun is divided always has been. No one trusts each other. They're too busy fighting over scraps to see what's coming."

Sevika leaned forward, her tone sharp. "So how do we fix it, then? How do we rally them together?"

Naruto fell silent, his fingers tapping lightly on the counter as he stared at the faint glow of the neon lights reflecting off the bar. "I don't know," he admitted. "No one believes in Zaun anymore. Not after Silco. Not after everything."

Sevika was quiet for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. Then, with a deliberate motion, she sat up and placed both hands on the counter. "Maybe they don't need to believe in Zaun," she said slowly, her voice firm. "Maybe they need to believe in a person."

Naruto blinked, confusion crossing his face. "What are you saying?"

Sevika leaned closer, fixing him with a piercing gaze. "I'm saying people don't fight for ideals, Naruto. Not in a place like this. They fight for someone they can believe in. Someone who'll give them hope when everything else is gone. Someone who can carry this city on their shoulders and lead them out of this mess."

Naruto frowned, shaking his head. "You're talking about a leader. I'm not—"

"Yes, you are," Sevika interrupted, her tone sharp but not unkind. "You've already been leading, whether you realize it or not. The kids in Zaun they whisper about the blue eyed demon. They believe in you, Naruto. They think you'll protect them from Piltover, from the enforcers, from everything."

Naruto looked down at the table, his fists clenching. "I'm just trying to keep everyone alive, Sevika. That's all."

"And that's exactly why you're the one, Naruto," Sevika said, her voice softening but losing none of its conviction. "I've watched you grow, from the day Silco brought you here to now. You've made mistakes, sure. But you've always fought for this city. For its people. If anyone can bring Zaun together, it's you."

Naruto turned to look at her, doubt flickering in his glowing eyes. "But what if I fail? What if I can't—"

"You won't," Sevika said firmly, cutting him off. "You're not doing this alone. You've got Jinx, Isha, me… We've got your back. But someone has to stand up and lead, Naruto. Someone has to make the first move. And that someone is you."

Naruto stared at her, her words sinking in like heavy stones.

As the door to the Last Drop creaked open, Jinx and Isha strolled in, their presence instantly breaking the tension in the room. Isha was munching on a piece of candy, her helmet slightly tilted on her head, while Jinx had that grin on her face, that could mean anything from a joke to a storm brewing.

She leaned against the table, her pink eyes locking onto Naruto. "She's not wrong," she said, her voice softer than usual. "Ever since the day we met, it's always been you. Fighting for Zaun, fighting for me… hell, fighting for anyone who needed it." Her grin faded slightly, replaced by something far more genuine. "You make me feel like there's always hope left in the world."

Naruto blinked, her words catching him off guard. "Jinx…"

"Without you, hope doesn't exist," she continued, stepping closer. "You're my reason for wanting to live, Naruto. Whatever you decide to do, I'm with you always."

Naruto's chest tightened, a surge of warmth and nostalgia washing over him. Those were the very words he'd said to her when they were younger, back when they had nothing but each other. "I'll be your blessing," he'd told her, again and again, back when hope was a scarce thing in the undercity.

Jinx's gaze softened, her voice dropping to barely a whisper. "You did say that, didn't you? That you'd be my blessing." A rare, almost shy smile spread across her lips, and her eyes shone with a mixture of affection and determination.

Naruto felt his cheeks warm, and for once, he didn't mind the embarrassment. "Yeah," he said, his voice tinged with both fondness and resolve. "And I meant it."

Sevika, who had been quietly observing the exchange, smirked and nodded approvingly. "About damn time," she muttered, leaning back in her chair. "Guess that's settled, then."

Jinx flopped into a chair, "So, boss, everything's ready," she said casually, twirling her hair in her hand. "Time to set things in motion."

Naruto exhaled, the weight of their collective hopes settling squarely on his shoulders. "Good," he said. "When we get back, we're rallying the city. We're sorting out the mess the Chembarons have made and pulling Zaun together. No more division. No more chaos."

Sevika folded her arms, her gaze narrowing. "And how exactly are you planning to do that? People are divided, scared. They're not just going to fall in line because you ask nicely."

Naruto's expression hardened, a dangerous glint in his glowing blue eyes. "I'll send them a message. Something they can't ignore."

Sevika leaned forward, intrigued but sceptical. "What kind of message?"

Naruto's lips curled into a faint smile. "I'm going to get the people of Zaun out of Stillwater."

The room fell silent, the weight of his words sinking in. Jinx's eyes lit up with excitement, while Sevika's face twisted in disbelief.

"You're insane," Sevika said, shaking her head. "Breaking into Stillwater? That's suicide."

Naruto shrugged, his calm demeanour unshaken. "Maybe. But if we pull it off, they'll see we're not just fighting for ourselves. We're fighting for everyone."

Jinx clapped her hands together, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Now that's my kind of crazy."

Naruto turned to Sevika, his voice steady. "We'll be back. When we are, we're rallying Zaun. No more Chem-Barons calling the shots, no more divisions. We'll build something better. But first, I need to do this."

Sevika studied him for a long moment before letting out a resigned sigh. "Fine. Just don't get yourself killed. We're counting on you."

Naruto nodded and turned to Jinx and Isha, his resolve clear. "Let's go."

As they left the Last Drop, Naruto glanced back one last time. He wasn't just leaving to start a fight; he was leaving to ignite a revolution.

The task force moved cautiously, the oppressive weight of the Undercity's deep chasm bearing down on them. Caitlyn's sharp eyes scanned the dim, damp environment, her rifle ready, while the rest of the team followed the trail of graffiti laden canisters leading them deeper into the heart of the Undercity. The haunting, manic laughter of Jinx's artwork covered the walls, each piece a twisted homage to chaos, each step a reminder of the trap they were willingly walking into.

The group came to a halt as they entered a large, ruined temple. Its once grand pillars were covered in layers of brightly coloured graffiti, mocking and defacing the symbols of the goddess Janna. The crumbling structure had an eerie, reverent silence to it, as if the temple itself held its breath in anticipation.

Vi stopped at the edge of the space, holding up her hand to signal a pause. "This is it," she muttered, her voice low and tense. Her gaze flicked toward Caitlyn, her tone sharpening. "Remember what I said. If you've got a clean shot, don't hesitate."

Caitlyn gave a reluctant nod, her grip tightening on her rifle. The weight of Vi's words hung heavily in the air, and Caitlyn struggled to suppress the swirl of emotions rising within her. She wasn't just hunting down Jinx; she was facing down a ghost from Vi's past and perhaps, in some way, her own.

Turning to the rest of the task force, Vi's voice became commanding. "Leave Jinx to me. You focus on Naruto."

The team exchanged uneasy glances but nodded. They knew what was at stake. Vi stepped forward, her boots echoing against the broken stone floor as she raised her voice, for the first time addressing her sister by the name she had chosen.

"Jinx!" Vi called out, her tone steady and firm, though her heart raced. "I know you're here. No more games. Show yourself."

A mocking giggle answered her, reverberating throughout the temple. It was Jinx's unmistakable voice, playful yet venomous. "Well, well, well. Look who finally decided to call me by my name," Jinx's voice echoed from every direction, making it impossible to pinpoint her location. "Guess you're finally catching on, Vi."

The team froze, their eyes darting around the space as the sound seemed to come from everywhere at once. Caitlyn's finger hovered over the trigger, her eyes scanning for a flash of blue or pink in the shadows.

"Come on out, Jinx," Vi called again, her voice more insistent this time. "I'm ready, let's settle this."

"Oh, settle this?" Jinx's voice dripped with mockery. "Like how you Enforcers 'settle' everything? The Gray sure does wonders, huh? Bringing it to Zaun, choking out the air, killing our people such a brilliant idea!" Her laugh rang out again, sharp and grating.

Vi clenched her fists, stepping further into the temple. "You've gone too far, Jinx. You're not the sister I knew anymore."

"Good!" Jinx's voice snapped, her playful tone replaced with venom. "Because I'm done being Powder. Powder's dead, Vi. And you killed her."

Caitlyn stiffened at Jinx's words, her rifle trained on the shadows as her heart pounded in her chest. She scanned the room, searching for any sign of movement. Then, in the flicker of her scope's lens, she caught sight of Jinx a flash of pink eyes, her chaotic grin reflected off the surface.

"Got you," Caitlyn whispered to herself, lining up the shot.

She pulled the trigger. The crack of the rifle echoed through the temple like a thunderclap.

The bullet struck true but instead of hitting its mark, the mirrored reflection of Jinx shattered into a thousand pieces, the shards falling to the ground like a cruel joke...

From somewhere in the shadows, another voice echoed. This one was colder, smoother, and tinged with a sinister edge.

"Swing and a miss… Caitlyn," Naruto's voice called out, his tone mocking as it bounced off the ruined walls. "Caitlyn… Caitlyn… Caitlyn…" he repeated, his voice drawing out her name like a taunt.

Caitlyn's eyes widened as she whipped her rifle toward the source of the sound, but Naruto remained unseen, hidden within the oppressive smog and shadows of the temple.

Vi grit her teeth, her knuckles tightening. "Naruto," she muttered, her tone low and seething, the name falling from her lips like a curse.

And then, the room fell silent, the tension so thick it seemed to suffocate the air around them.

Naruto's voice echoed through the cavernous temple, cutting through the tension like a blade. "I understand now…" he said, his tone calm yet laced with an undercurrent of restrained fury. "She wants to fight me. She wants to kill me."

His glowing blue eyes burned with a cold light, locking onto Caitlyn and the task force below. Jinx, perched on her own high vantage point, spoke at the same time, her voice overlapping with Naruto's, creating an eerie harmony.

"Well… here we are."

Naruto and Jinx stood on separate crumbling pillars, their figures illuminated by the faint light filtering through the cracks in the ruined temple. Jinx's pink eyes locked onto Vi's with a mixture of rage and a hint of longing. Naruto's gaze never left Caitlyn, the woman who once called herself his sister, now leading a team to hunt him down.

"Let's do this," Naruto declared, his voice carrying across the room like a war drum's beat.

With that, he launched himself from his pillar in a blur of crackling blue energy, the air sizzling in his wake. His target was Caitlyn, his speed like a thunderclap as he closed the distance in the blink of an eye.

Caitlyn barely had time to react. "Loris!" she shouted, her voice sharp and commanding.

Loris, armed with his massive riot shield, stepped forward to intercept Naruto. He planted his feet and braced for impact, the shield raised high.

Naruto's eyes narrowed. "The same trick won't work twice."

At the last moment, Naruto veered to the side, his electrified form slipping past Loris' shield like water around a rock. With a burst of speed, he slammed his shoulder into Loris' side, sending him sprawling backward into a pile of rubble. The massive shield clattered to the ground, sparks flying as Naruto stood over him, his movements fluid and precise.

Meanwhile, Jinx sprang into action, her manic grin lighting up her face as she aimed her minigun at Vi. The thunderous roar of bullets echoed through the temple as Jinx unleashed a relentless barrage, forcing Vi to take cover behind a hastily grabbed metal shield.

"You're fast, sis," Jinx taunted, her voice sing-song and taunting. "But I'm faster!"

Vi gritted her teeth, her muscles tensing as she waited for the right moment. The instant Jinx paused to reload, Vi lunged forward with the speed and power of the Atlas gauntlets. She raised the metal shield like a battering ram, closing the distance in a matter of seconds.

Before Jinx could react, Vi slammed into her, the force of the impact sending the minigun flying from Jinx's grasp. The weapon skidded across the floor, its heavy frame sparking against the stone.

Jinx stumbled backward but quickly regained her footing, her expression shifting from surprise to fury. "That was my favorite toy!" she snarled.

Vi tossed the battered shield aside, raising her fists as she advanced. "You've always hidden behind your toys, Jinx," she said, her voice cold and unyielding. "Let's see how you do without them."

The sisters collided in a flurry of movement, Jinx's unpredictable agility pitted against Vi's brute strength. Sparks flew as the Atlas gauntlets clashed with Jinx's hastily drawn pistol, their battle a chaotic dance of fists and bullets.

Above the chaos, Naruto stood amidst the smoke and ruin, his focus shifting between his enemies. He smirked, his body crackling with crimson lightning as he prepared for the next move.

Naruto lunged forward, his body charged with electrifying speed, but suddenly, a chaotic wave of energy erupted, spreading through the underground chamber like a pulse of raw, unstable power. His core flared erratically, glowing brighter than ever before, and he stumbled mid-attack, clutching at his chest. The crimson energy that once surrounded him flickered, then vanished.

"What… the hell?" Naruto muttered, his voice strained as his knees buckled beneath him. His body felt heavy, foreign, as if something was tearing him apart from the inside.

Caitlyn raised her hextech powered rifle, aiming straight for him. She pulled the trigger, but the weapon fizzled, its intricate mechanisms sparking before going silent. "What's happening?" she muttered, shaking the gun in frustration.

Naruto hit the floor hard, gasping for air as his core's glow flickered dangerously. The task force wasted no time. They swarmed him like vultures, landing brutal blows to his vulnerable body. Maddie's boot struck his ribs, while Steb's baton came down hard across his back. Loris swung his shield, slamming it into Naruto's torso with a sickening crunch.

Vi's gauntlets sputtered, their mechanical glow dimming as the chaotic energy filled the air. She froze mid stride, her arms dragged down by the dead weight of the deactivated gauntlets. "Damn it!" Vi hissed, struggling to lift them. She dropped to one knee, the immense weight anchoring her to the ground.

Across the ruined temple, Jinx's twisted grin grew wider as she stalked forward, her rocket launcher slung casually over her shoulder. The dim lighting of the chamber cast an eerie glow on her pink, shimmer tinged eyes. Her voice rang out, mocking yet cold, echoing off the temple walls.

"Aww, poor sis," Jinx said, tilting her head with mock pity. "Look at you, all stuck and helpless. Guess that's what you get for joining the bad guys!" She raised the rocket launcher, aiming directly at Vi. "But hey, don't worry. It's a good thing I brought more toys!" Her grin widened as she steadied her aim. "So long, Vi."

The rocket launcher roared to life, the missile spiralling out with a shrill whine. Vi's eyes widened as she braced herself, her body tensed for the inevitable impact. But just as the rocket closed the distance, the malfunctioning energy surged again. The gauntlets on Vi's arms hummed and glowed, roaring back to life in a burst of blue energy.

With a desperate yell, Vi swung her gauntlets upward, deflecting the incoming missile with a resounding clang. The force sent the rocket spiralling off course, narrowly missing her. It streaked across the room, its fiery trail illuminating the smoke filled air.

The taskforce were still beating into Naruto when the rocket hurtled toward them. Maddie turned, her eyes widening in horror. "Incoming!"

The rocket slammed into the wall near Naruto and the taskforce, detonating with deafening force. The explosion rocked the temple, shaking its crumbling foundations. Chunks of stone and debris rained down as the blast sent everyone in the vicinity flying. Smoke and dust filled the air, blinding and choking those nearby.

Naruto hit the ground hard, his ears ringing and his vision blurred. The glowing core in his chest pulsed erratically, the white energy flickering as he struggled to push himself up. Through the haze, he caught glimpses of the others, scattered and disoriented.

He rose from the rubble, his body taut with adrenaline, the glow of his eyes cutting through the smoky haze like a predator stalking its prey. His movements were swift, almost imperceptible, as he zeroed in on Maddie, who was attempting to recover from the blast.

Before she could react, Naruto was upon her. His hand crackled with crimson energy as he grabbed her by the face, slamming her head into the cracked wall with a bone-jarring impact. Maddie's feet dangled as she struggled, but Naruto kicked her legs out from under her, sending her crumpling to the floor.

"Stay down," Naruto growled, his voice calm but chilling, as though the fight had become second nature to him.

Without hesitation, Naruto turned his focus to Loris, who had been advancing with his riot shield raised. In a blur of motion, Naruto zapped across the room, reappearing behind Loris. With a savage leap, he landed on Loris's back, his weight and momentum forcing the larger man to stumble forward.

There was a sickening crunch as Naruto locked his legs around Loris's neck, twisting with brutal precision. The man dropped to his knees, the massive shield clattering uselessly to the ground as Naruto pushed off, flipping back into the shadows of the smoke.

Through the chaos, his glowing eyes gleamed like twin flames, radiating a dangerous, unrelenting intensity. The temple's air was thick with tension and smoke, but even through the haze, Naruto's presence was a beacon of fear for his enemies.

Behind him, the sound of rapid footsteps echoed. It was Jinx, her wild laughter cutting through the tension as she bounded forward, the massive rocket launcher hoisted onto her shoulder. She moved with an almost gleeful energy, her pink, shimmer-fueled eyes locked onto the remnants of Caitlyn's taskforce regrouping in the distance.

"Hey, Caitlyn!" Jinx called out, her voice sing song and laced with menace. "Catch!"

With a jump, she fired another rocket, the fiery projectile spiraling toward the group. Its roar drowned out all other sounds as it tore through the air, the light from its trail briefly illuminating the room in an ominous red glow.

The rocket detonated upon impact, the shockwave ripping through the room and throwing more debris into the air. The walls trembled, fragments of stone crumbling from above as the temple struggled to withstand the relentless violence.

As the smoke thickened once again, Naruto emerged from the shadows, standing amidst the wreckage. His glowing blue eyes shone brighter now, unyielding and cold, as though the destruction had only fueled his resolve. Behind him, Jinx landed gracefully from her leap, her maniacal grin etched into her face as she hoisted her weapon.

The two stood together, their silhouettes framed by the destruction they had wrought, the eerie light of their respective powers casting ghostly shadows onto the ruined walls. For a moment, everything was still, save for the faint crackle of energy and the sound of falling debris.

Naruto's gaze flicked to Jinx, who was already preparing for another shot. A small, almost imperceptible smirk played on his lips.

"This," he said quietly, his voice steady despite the chaos, "is just the beginning."

Naruto appeared behind Steb in a blur of motion, his glowing eyes narrowing as his hands wrapped tightly around the man's neck. Steb struggled, clawing at Naruto's forearms, but his strength was no match for the overwhelming force constricting his airway. Naruto's grip tightened, his face emotionless and cold as the fight drained out of Steb. The man's body went limp, collapsing to the ground with a dull thud.

Naruto stood there for a moment, breathing heavily, his chest rising and falling as the chaotic energy coursing through his body began to surge uncontrollably. The room flickered with pulses of white light emanating from his chest, his glowing blue eyes flickering erratically as the unstable energy fought for release.

"Stop!" Caitlyn's voice cut through the haze. She stepped forward, her weapon raised but shaking slightly in her hands. Seeing the destruction wrought around her the bodies of her taskforce scattered, the raw power emanating from Naruto her resolve hardened.

Naruto turned toward her, his expression unreadable. Before Caitlyn could fire, the malfunctioning began again. Her weapon sparked and jerked, and she dropped it in frustration. Determined, she charged forward and swung her fist, connecting with Naruto's jaw in a loud, satisfying crack. He staggered back, his head snapping to the side, but before he could retaliate, his body convulsed, and the glowing energy around him surged wildly.

Suddenly, Naruto's entire form pulsed with a blinding light. A wave of energy erupted outward, and in an instant, he was gone...

Naruto found himself standing in an all white void. It was eerily silent, the vast emptiness stretching out infinitely in every direction. He looked around, disoriented, his hands clenching and unclenching as he tried to make sense of his surroundings.

"Where am I?" he muttered, his voice echoing faintly.

"Naruto?" A familiar voice broke the stillness. He turned sharply to see Jayce, Ekko, and Heimerdinger standing a few feet away, their expressions a mixture of confusion and wariness.

Jayce took a step forward, his hammer slung over his shoulder, his brow furrowed. "What are you doing here?"

Ekko glanced at Heimerdinger, who seemed just as baffled. "This… doesn't make sense," Ekko murmured, his voice low. "He's not supposed to be here."

Naruto opened his mouth to speak, but before he could respond, the world around him flickered violently. The light shifted, rippling as if it were trying to reject his presence. His chest burned, the unstable energy within him surging to dangerous levels.

The next moment, Naruto was yanked back into reality.

Naruto's body hit the temple floor with a hard thud, Caitlyn standing over him, her breathing ragged. Before he could fully regain his bearings, her fists came down on him with unrelenting force. Her punches landed on his face, his chest, anywhere she could reach, fueled by her rage and despair.

"Look at what you've become!" Caitlyn screamed, tears streaming down her face. "You were supposed to be better than this! You were supposed to be one of us!"

Naruto didn't fight back. His glowing eyes, now flickering with instability, locked onto Caitlyn's face as she continued to pummel him. Each blow echoed through the ruined temple, her voice trembling with a mixture of fury and anguish.

"I trusted you!" Caitlyn shouted, her voice cracking. "You had a chance to stop all of this! To stop her! And instead… instead, you chose this!"

Naruto's chest heaved as the surges of unstable energy began to subside. His lips parted, but no words came out. His body lay still, his mind racing with fragmented images of his past, his choices, and the faces of those he had lost.

Nearby, Vi and Jinx clashed once more, their battle a chaotic blur of fists, gunfire, and raw emotion. Jinx's screams of rage and Vi's shouts of determination filled the air, but Naruto could only hear Caitlyn's words ringing in his ears.

"Look at you," Caitlyn whispered, her voice now trembling. She paused, her fist hovering mid-air as tears dripped onto Naruto's face. "What have you done?"

Caitlyn's fist collided with Naruto's face again, the impact sending a sickening crack through the temple as his head snapped to the side. Blood trickled from his mouth and nose, his body trembling as he tried to push himself up. But whatever energy pulsed erratically in his chest had sapped his strength, leaving him vulnerable and struggling to even lift his arms.

Jinx, on the other side of the temple, had her rocket launcher aimed and ready to fire. Before she could, the explosion from her last attempt sent debris flying her way, throwing her to the ground. Vi, not missing a beat, charged at her sister with raw determination, tackling her into the wall. The two wrestled viciously, Jinx screaming in frustration as she fired her pistol in desperation. Her shots went wild, missing Vi as the older sister landed a heavy blow to her midsection, pinning her with sheer force.

Naruto lay on the floor, trying to move but unable to gather the strength. Caitlyn loomed over him, her rifle now slung over her shoulder as she continued to pummel him with her fists. Each strike carried years of pent-up anger, pain, and betrayal. His face was bloodied, his breathing ragged, but still, he managed to lift his head slightly, blood dripping from his lips.

"Stop…" Naruto croaked, his voice barely audible. "Don't…do something you'll... regret"

Caitlyn ignored his plea, landing another brutal punch. "You've made your choices, Naruto," she hissed, her voice trembling with fury. "And this...this is what you deserve."

On the far end of the temple, Vi and Jinx were locked in a ferocious fight. Fist met fist, knee struck knee, each sister refusing to back down. Jinx screamed in rage, her pink eyes glowing unnaturally as she threw wild punches, while Vi, with precision and strength, countered every move.

Naruto's vision blurred as Caitlyn finally stopped her assault, standing and stepping back. She reached for her rifle, her face set with grim determination. "This ends now," she said coldly, her gaze flicking between Jinx and Vi. "I won't let her hurt anyone else."

Naruto's heart pounded weakly in his chest as he watched Caitlyn lift her rifle, the barrel aimed squarely at Jinx. Panic surged through him, his body shaking as he forced out a desperate cry.

"No… wait…" Naruto gasped, spitting blood. "Don't…"

Caitlyn's hands steadied as she lined up the shot, waiting for an opening in the chaotic fight between Jinx and Vi. Her focus was unyielding, her finger tightening on the trigger. Naruto clawed at the ground, trying to pull himself toward her, but his limbs felt like lead.

Jinx let out a guttural scream, landing a solid punch on Vi's jaw. The older sister staggered back, giving Jinx a moment to pull out another weapon. But as she raised it, Caitlyn fired.

The sound of the shot echoed through the ruined temple.

Jinx's scream pierced the air as her pistol clattered to the ground. Blood dripped from her hand, her pink eyes wide with shock as she stared at her severed finger lying on the floor. Time seemed to slow as Jinx cradled her injured hand, tears of pain and fury welling in her glowing eyes.

"JINX!" Naruto roared, his voice raw with emotion. But he was too weak to move, forced to watch as chaos erupted around him once more.

Vi's fist hovered in the air, trembling as she looked down at her sister pinned beneath her. Jinx lay still, her glowing pink eyes staring up at her older sibling, a sad smile curling on her lips despite the blood smeared across her face.

"Well, sis," Jinx said softly, her voice trembling but still laced with that familiar manic tone, "I guess this is it. Funny, isn't it? Of all the people who could do it, it's you. My big sister." Her voice cracked, and she laughed weakly, her breath hitching.

Vi's face tightened, her teeth clenched. "Jinx…" she growled, though her voice betrayed her hesitation.

"I'm glad, you know?" Jinx continued, unbothered by the fist hanging over her. "If it has to be someone, I'd rather it be you. Better you than some enforcer or Piltover pawn. At least… it means something." She laughed again, a hollow, bitter sound. "But it's kind of poetic, don't you think? Like Romeo and Juliet…" Her gaze shifted, locking onto Naruto lying weakly on the ground, bloodied and watching her with wide, panicked eyes. For the first time, her confidence wavered. She swallowed hard, her voice dropping. "But... you know, I don't think I want to die. Not yet. Not here."

Vi's arm shook as she looked at her sister, her breathing ragged. Jinx's words dug deep, tearing at her resolve. Her hand faltered, and in that moment of hesitation, the temple filled with the sound of rapid footsteps.

From above, Isha had seen everything unfold, her small frame trembling as she watched Jinx beaten, Naruto struggling, and Vi preparing to deliver the final blow. Tears streamed down her cheeks, she couldn't stand by any longer. With a sudden burst of speed, she sprinted down the stone steps, her boots clattering against the uneven surface.

"Isha, no!" Naruto croaked, his voice cracking as he tried to rise, his arms trembling with the effort. "Stop!"

But Isha didn't listen. She darted past him, her small frame a blur of motion as she picked up Jinx's pistol, and threw herself onto Jinx, wrapping her arms around the older girl in a protective embrace. Her trembling hands gripped the pistol tightly as she held it out, pointing it at Vi. Her tear-streaked face remained locked on Jinx, her expression filled with raw emotion.

Vi froze, her eyes wide as she stared at the tiny girl. The tension in the air was suffocating, the sound of Isha's heavy breathing the only noise in the vast, ruined temple. The gun in her hand shook, but her stance didn't waver.

Jinx blinked in confusion, her wide, glowing eyes meeting Isha's tear filled gaze. "What are you… doing?" she whispered, her voice faltering for the first time.

Isha didn't respond she couldn't. But her actions spoke louder than words. She pressed her small body against Jinx's, shielding her, the pistol unwaveringly aimed at Vi. Her message was clear, she wouldn't let anyone hurt Jinx...

Naruto dragged himself to his knees, his body weak but his voice desperate. "Isha, stop! Please, just... don't do this!"

The three of them Jinx, Vi, and Isha remained locked in a standoff, the air heavy with tension. Jinx stared down at the girl clinging to her, a strange warmth flickering in her usually chaotic eyes. For the first time in a long time, she felt something she didn't quite recognize a quiet, painful feeling of being cared for.

However, Caitlyn manages to unarm Isha with a clean shot knocking the pistol out of her hands. Isha flinched, bracing herself against Jinx's chest, her small frame trembling but refusing to move. Jinx held her tight, her fingers digging into Isha's arms as she hissed through clenched teeth, "Get off me, kid. You'll get yourself killed!" But Isha didn't budge.

Naruto, bloodied and barely standing, staggered forward, his glowing blue eyes locking onto Caitlyn. His voice, hoarse and filled with resolve, echoed through the space. "Go on, Caitlyn. Do it. Shoot me. It's what you've wanted all along, isn't it?"

Caitlyn's hands steadied on her rifle as she levelled it at Naruto, her face a storm of fury and grief. "No," she spat, her voice trembling with emotion. "I want you to feel what I felt, when my mother was killed. I want you to know what it's like to lose everything."

"Caitlyn, stop!" Vi's voice cut through the chaos, desperate and strained. She stepped forward, her hands outstretched in a plea. "You'll hit the kid too. Don't do this! It's not worth it!"

But Caitlyn shook her head, her eyes narrowing. "You think I care? After what he's done? After what they've done?!" Her finger tightened on the trigger, her aim steady despite the tears welling in her eyes.

Naruto stood firm, his chest heaving as he shifted his weight in front of Jinx and Isha, his broad back shielding them both. His voice softened, filled with a mix of resignation and defiance. "Go ahead. Take the shot. You want revenge, don't you? Here I am. But leave them out of this."

The tension in the air was suffocating. For a moment, no one moved. No one dared breathe. And then Caitlyn fired.

The shot tore through the air, finding its mark in Naruto's shoulder. He let out a guttural hiss of pain, staggering but refusing to fall. Blood oozed from the wound, staining his already battered frame. Jinx gasped, her glowing pink eyes wide with shock as she whispered, "Naruto…"

Caitlyn lowered her rifle, her lips trembling as she quickly began to reload. Her fingers worked with mechanical precision, her face devoid of hesitation. "I'm not done yet," she muttered, her voice shaking with barely contained rage.

"Enough!" Vi's voice rang out, raw and commanding. She surged forward, grabbing the muzzle of Caitlyn's rifle and yanking it downward just as the shot discharged. The blast struck the stone floor, sending up a cloud of dust and debris. Caitlyn struggled against Vi, the two grappling as the rifle clattered to the ground between them.

Naruto groaned, clutching his shoulder as he turned to look at Jinx and Isha. His voice was weak but steady. "Get out of here. Both of you."

Jinx, however, wasn't paying attention to him. Her lips curled into a small, manic smile as she leaned in close to Isha and whispered, "You remember those bombs we set up?"

Isha nodded, her eyes wide but determined. She shifted slightly, her small hands working their way toward the hidden detonator..

Naruto caught the faint movement and his eyes widened. "Jinx… what are you doing?"

Jinx's grin only widened as she whispered, "Giving them the fireworks show they deserve." Her voice was soft, almost playful.

The room plunged further into chaos as Caitlyn and Vi wrestled for control, their voices drowned out by the rising tension. All the while, Isha's trembling hands crept closer to the trigger.

The stage was set. The bombs were ready, and the clock was ticking.

The explosion erupted with a deafening roar, shaking the very foundations of the temple. The massive vault, which had held back the ominous Gray, cracked and shattered, releasing a torrent of smoke and energy. A powerful gust surged through the ruined space, sending Vi and Caitlyn tumbling backward, their bodies thrown violently toward the temple's entrance. The air filled with swirling colours as the Gray rapidly climbed upward, triggering the hidden canisters Jinx had planted.

The transformation was immediate. The once murky Gray began to swirl with vibrant hues, its noxious essence twisting into dazzling, kaleidoscopic plumes. The colourful mist surged upward through Piltover's vast network of underground vents, bursting into the city above. For the first time, Piltover's pristine streets were painted with the chaotic colours of Zaun's underbelly, its residents caught off guard by the surreal beauty of the spectacle.

The people of Zaun, untouched and accustomed to the Gray's effects, gathered in awe at the sight. They stood on rooftops and alleyways, watching as their city's torment became Piltover's reality. What was once their bane now became Piltover's reckoning a surreal form of poetic justice.

Vi groaned as she pushed herself up from the rubble near the temple's entrance, coughing violently as she tried to clear her lungs. Caitlyn was already on her feet, frantically clawing at the blocked entrance with her bare hands. Her rifle hung limply at her side, forgotten in her desperation.

"They're in there!" Caitlyn shouted, her voice cracking with fury and despair. "I can't let them escape! Not after everything they've done!"

She grabbed her rifle and started slamming the butt of it against the rubble, the metal clanging uselessly against the stone. "Open! Open!" she screamed, her words tinged with helpless rage.

Vi staggered to her feet, her heart sinking at the sight of Caitlyn's frantic state. She rushed forward, grabbing Caitlyn by the shoulders. "Cait! Stop! You're not going to get through that! It's over!" Vi's voice was pleading, raw with emotion.

Caitlyn whipped around, her tear streaked face contorted with anger. "It's not over! It can't be over! You stopped me! You let her live, and now look at what they've done!" She pointed wildly at the swirling colours overtaking Piltover above them, her voice cracking under the weight of her grief.

Vi's expression darkened as she stood her ground. "You were going to shoot a kid, Cait. A child. I couldn't let you do that."

"That child is protecting Jinx! Do you even care what they've done?" Caitlyn's voice was venomous, but her hands trembled on her rifle. "My mother is dead because of them. How can you stand there and defend her?"

Vi's voice dropped, her tone sharp and unwavering. "I'm not defending her. But you're turning into something worse someone who'd shoot an innocent just to get revenge."

Caitlyn's shoulders stiffened, her face hardening as she took a step back. "Don't you dare compare me to them. You've been defending her this whole time. Maybe you're no different than Jinx."

The words hit Vi like a punch to the gut. "That's not fair," she whispered, her voice barely audible, her heart breaking under Caitlyn's glare.

Caitlyn turned on her heel, her movements rigid and mechanical. "I can't do this anymore. Stay here if you want, Vi. I'll do what needs to be done."

Vi reached out, grabbing Caitlyn's arm. "Cait, please, don't do this—"

Caitlyn spun around, her face a mask of pain and anger. Without hesitation, she struck Vi with the butt of her rifle, the force sending Vi staggering to the ground. Caitlyn froze for a moment, as though realizing what she'd done, but her expression remained cold as she turned and walked away.

Vi clutched her jaw, tears streaming down her face as she watched Caitlyn disappear into the colorful mist. "Cait…" she whispered, her voice trembling with sorrow.

Left alone, Vi sat on the ground, her body shaking with quiet sobs. The temple loomed behind her, and the vibrant plumes of Gray painted the city above, but all she could feel was the growing distance between herself and Caitlyn a chasm that now felt impossible to bridge.

The aftermath of the attack left Piltover in shambles. Streets once gleaming with innovation and power now stood coated in a haunting array of Jinx's vibrant colours, spread by the Gray. The citizens wandered the streets, their faces etched with confusion, anger, and fear, as the effects of the unexpected chaos weighed heavily on their shoulders.

In the Council chambers, Elora and Mel sat in silence, surrounded by the remnants of their fractured government. The air was heavy with unspoken tension, the weight of recent losses and mounting pressures hanging over them like a storm cloud.

Elora exchanged a knowing glance with Mel, her expression hard and resolute. They both understood what needed to be done. The chaos and disorder had reached a tipping point. Piltover's fragile structure was teetering on the brink of collapse, and they needed to act swiftly.

Mel reached into her pocket and retrieved the Shimmer Dart, holding it up to the light. Its iridescent glow reflected her conflicted expression as she prepared herself for the next Council meeting. "It's time," Mel said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Elora nodded but froze mid-movement, her hand clutching the edge of the table. Her eyes widened in sudden panic as her body began to stiffen. She struggled to speak, her lips trembling as though fighting against an unseen force. "Mel… something's—"

Before she could finish, a dark, inky magic seeped into the room, swirling around Elora like living shadows. Mel sprang to her feet, but the dark tendrils moved too quickly. They coiled around her wrists and ankles, yanking her back as she screamed in defiance. Her attempts to resist were futile, the magic tightening like a vice as it engulfed her entirely.

"Guards!" Mel shouted, her voice echoing through the empty hall, but no one came.

Elora's body convulsed as the dark magic consumed her. Her expression twisted with pain, and her eyes flickered with unnatural darkness before the tendrils dragged her toward the shadows. Mel gritted her teeth, trying to twist free, but she too felt her strength waning as the magic began to pull her under.

The last thing Mel saw before her vision was swallowed by darkness was a figure emerging from the shadows, their silhouette cloaked in ominous power. The figure raised a hand, commanding the swirling magic with a cold, unyielding authority. Mel's muffled scream echoed in the room before the shadows consumed her entirely, leaving the Council chamber silent once more.

All that remained was the faint glow of the Shimmer Dart, now lying abandoned on the floor. Its light flickered briefly before fading into the stillness, a grim symbol of the impending storm about to engulf Piltover.

Some days later, Naruto sat in Silco's old office, the air heavy with the weight of decisions yet to be made. Jinx leaned against his desk, her fingers idly spinning one of her customized grenades as she hummed softly. Sevika stood near the door, her imposing figure guarding the room as Chross and Margot entered, exchanging wary glances before taking their seats. Sevika closed the door behind them, her movements deliberate and careful, still bearing the aches and bruises from the chaos of recent days.

Naruto didn't waste time. His voice was calm but firm as he addressed the Chembarons. "Before we start, you might've noticed that Smeech is no longer with us," he began, his piercing blue eyes sweeping over them. "Let me be clear Smeech was selling us out to the Enforcers. I dealt with him."

Chross shifted in his seat, his expression unreadable, while Margot raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Dealt with him?" Chross asked, his tone measured.

Naruto nodded. "Gone, permanently." His words hung in the air, the unspoken weight of them enough to silence further questions.

"Now," Naruto continued, "we've been tearing ourselves apart fighting each other while Piltover sharpens their weapons. That ends here. I'm offering you both new territories, opportunities for work, trade, and legitimate businesses. No more pointless bloodshed. We stand together, or we fall alone."

Chross leaned back, crossing his arms as he regarded Naruto. "I can agree to that… provided the terms are favourable."

Margot smirked, her tone laced with amusement. "You make an interesting offer, but what guarantees do we have? What happens if Piltover decides to wipe us out anyway? What's your plan?"

Naruto leaned forward, his eyes burning with determination. "If the king doesn't move, then how does he expect his subjects won't follow."

Margot blinked, sitting upright in her chair. "Piltover?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Naruto nodded. "Yes. No more hiding. No more running. We'll stand together as a unit and fight for what's ours. But I need you to trust me. I'll handle the heavy lifting—all I ask is that you truly stand by me."

The room fell silent as Chross and Margot exchanged looks. Margot was the first to break the silence, her lips curling into a sly smile. "If you're serious about this, I can work with you."

Chross nodded reluctantly. "Fine. As long as the terms hold, I'm in."

Naruto exhaled softly, his resolve strengthening. He turned to Jinx, who had stopped playing with her grenade, her full attention on him. "It's time for the final part," he said quietly, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "I have to leave for now, but I'll be back soon."

Jinx's expression flickered with uncertainty, but she nodded. Naruto bent down and ruffled Isha's hair gently. "Take care of her, okay?" he said before zapping away in a flash of blue light.

Margot watched the afterglow of his departure, a sly smile playing on her lips. "I wonder how his powers work in bed," she mused, her voice teasing.

Jinx froze, her grenade slipping from her fingers and bouncing harmlessly on the desk. Her face flushed crimson as her pistol was suddenly in her hand, aimed directly at Margot. "What did you say?" she growled, her voice low and dangerous.

Sevika crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing at Margot. "You're pushing it," she said, her tone a quiet warning.

Margot raised her hands in mock surrender, grinning. "Relax. I'm just joking… mostly. But really, Jinx, if you ever do find the time, do tell me."

Jinx's eyes widened, her blush deepening as her grip on the pistol tightened. "I wouldn't tell you even if I did know," she spat, her voice rising.

Margot's grin only grew wider. "Oh, so you don't know how the blue demon is in bed? Maybe I do have a chance after all."

The sharp crack of a gunshot echoed through the room as a bullet grazed the edge of Margot's ear, narrowly missing her head. Margot chuckled nervously, standing from her seat. "Well, I think that's my cue to leave."

She quickly exited the room, Chross following close behind with an exasperated shake of his head.

As the door closed behind them, Jinx sank into her seat, her mind swirling. "Bed… Naruto…" she murmured, her voice barely audible. Her blush deepened as she buried her face in her hands, her thoughts spinning wildly. "What does she know?" she muttered, her voice rising with irritation.

Sevika smirked from her place by the door, shaking her head with amusement as she muttered, "Kids."

The Council Room of Piltover stood draped in somber colours, its atmosphere laden with tension and anticipation, it was still destroyed from Jinx's attack but today all the great families gathered.

Salo spoke as his voice carried a tone of solemn gratitude, an acknowledgment of the weight each House bore in the face of recent tragedies.

"We are gathered here, as we have countless times before, not as divided interests but as a singular entity, united under the shared prosperity and safety of Piltover," Salo began, his hands gripping the edges of the podium. "In these trying times, we honour our resilience. But now, I yield the floor to General Ambessa Medarda, who brings us a vision of how we might secure our city's future."

The room fell silent as Ambessa stepped forward, her imposing figure and sharp military attire commanding the room's full attention. Her expression was firm, her gaze sweeping over the assembly like a hawk surveying its prey. She placed her hands behind her back, her voice cutting through the quiet with precision.

"Esteemed Councilors, noble families, and protectors of Piltover," she began, her tone carrying both authority and a hint of calculated sympathy. "The events that have unfolded over the past weeks have shaken the very foundation of our city. The destruction, the terror, and the loss we have suffered cannot go unanswered."

She paused, letting her words settle, then continued, her voice dropping to a grave register. "I regret to inform you that Amara, has fallen. She was struck down not by random chaos, but by the deliberate actions of Zaunite assassins, directed by none other than the so called Blue Eyed Demon."

Gasps rippled through the room, whispers following in their wake as the weight of her words sank in. Caitlyn, seated among the attending Councilors, stiffened, her mind racing as she processed the implications.

Ambessa pressed on, her voice rising to command their attention. "This was not an isolated act of aggression. It was part of a coordinated effort to destabilize Piltover. We have suffered not only in our streets but in our very halls of power. The explosion at this Council's chambers was a declaration of war."

She let the silence that followed her words deepen, watching as the Councilors exchanged worried glances. Then, her tone shifted to one of rallying determination. "To ensure Piltover's survival, I propose we declare a state of Martial Law, effective immediately. We must bring order back to our streets and prepare to retaliate against Zaun with all the strength at our disposal."

Caitlyn's hands tightened into fists as she sat rigidly, every instinct screaming against the path Ambessa was laying out. She glanced at Mel's empty chair, her mind clouded by the weight of what this would mean for Piltover—and for Zaun.

Ambessa continued. "This effort requires leadership, discipline, and strategic clarity. We must appoint a General, someone with the foresight to protect our city and lead our forces to victory. I, alongside my Noxian army, will serve as an advisor in these efforts."

Salo leaned forward slightly, a faint smirk of self-assurance playing at his lips. His posture suggested he was already preparing to rise, assuming he would be the natural choice for the position.

Ambessa turned to the assembly, her voice firm. "For this crucial role, I nominate Caitlyn Kiramman."

The room erupted in whispers and startled gasps. Caitlyn's eyes widened in shock, her composure faltering for a rare moment as she registered the weight of what had just been said. Salo's expression froze, his self-satisfaction morphing into a mask of thinly veiled outrage.

"I—" Caitlyn began, but Ambessa raised a hand, silencing her as she turned to face the stunned families.

"Caitlyn Kiramman has shown exceptional resilience, strategic acumen, and a deep understanding of both Piltover and Zaun. In these unprecedented times, we need a leader who can bring both fire and reason to the table. Her recent actions in the field prove she is capable of making the hard decisions required to secure Piltover's future."

The whispers in the room grew louder as the Councilors deliberated among themselves. Caitlyn's mind raced, torn between her instincts to reject this nomination and her desire to protect Piltover in her own way.

One by one, the ruling Houses began voicing their agreement. "For Piltover," one said. "For stability," another added. The consensus began to build, leaving Salo seething silently as the tide turned against him.

Caitlyn looked around the room, her heart pounding as the weight of their decision settled onto her shoulders. Ambessa met her gaze, a flicker of something unreadable passing through her sharp eyes.

"Do you accept this responsibility, Commander Kiramman?" Ambessa asked, her voice carrying both a challenge and an unspoken demand.

Caitlyn swallowed hard, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil. "For Piltover," she said, her words carrying the weight of a vow.

Ambessa stood tall, her towering presence commanding the room, and with a sharp motion, she brought her fist to her chest in a resonating salute. The gesture rippled through the crowd as her soldiers and soon the Enforcers echoed it, their fists pounding against their armor in unison. The sound filled the chamber, a deafening signal of solidarity and resolve.

Caitlyn's task force, battered and bruised but unbroken, stood to the side, their silent support a testament to their loyalty. Maddie, Steb each bore their scars from the battles that had brought them here, but their determination matched Caitlyn's as they watched her step into her new role, but Loris walked away without anyone spotting him.

Ambessa turned to Caitlyn, her piercing gaze locking onto the young commander. "Your mother will have justice," she said, her voice solemn yet resolute. The weight of the promise carried through the air, leaving no room for doubt. Caitlyn, with a mixture of hesitance and pride, returned the salute. Her hand pressed firmly against her chest as she raised her chin, cementing her acceptance of the mantle bestowed upon her.

The room fell silent as the Councilors, soldiers, and task force all stood at attention, their eyes on Caitlyn. Ambessa turned toward the jagged hole in the Council Room's wall, the gaping wound left by Jinx's rocket. The sight of Piltover stretched out before them, its streets and structures bathed in the orange glow of a setting sun, painted an ominous backdrop for what was to come.

Caitlyn joined her at the edge, her eyes scanning the city. She could feel the weight of Piltover pressing down on her, the responsibility now resting squarely on her shoulders. Just as she exhaled, attempting to steel herself for what lay ahead, a figure on a distant tower caught her attention.

Ambessa noticed it too. The blond boy stood tall against the skyline, his blond hair whipping in the wind. Naruto's figure was unmistakable, no longer hiding in the shadows. The glowing blue of his eyes pierced the distance, locking onto Ambessa with a sharp intensity that sent a ripple of unease through the room.

Ambessa's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Is he doing me a favor and surrendering?" she mused aloud, her voice laced with challenge.

Naruto's laughter carried through the air, low and mocking. "Me? Surrendering?" His voice rose, cutting through the tension with clarity and confidence. "No," he said with a dangerous smile. "I'm here to warn you."

Everyone in the room stiffened, their eyes narrowing as they watched him. Caitlyn's expression hardened, her anger boiling just beneath the surface.

"I am Naruto Uzumaki," he declared, his voice echoing over the city. "The Blue Eyed Demon of Zaun. I am its protector in its darkest hour, and if you wish to attack us, then prepare yourselves. Because we are ready."

His grin widened as his words hung in the air, an open challenge that sent shivers through the onlookers.

Caitlyn's cold glare locked onto him, her hand gripping the edge of her rifle. "We're ready," she said under her breath, her voice filled with icy determination.

Naruto's glowing eyes turned to her, meeting her gaze with unwavering confidence. "You're not ready yet," he said, his tone almost mocking as if he could see through her composure. His gaze shifted back to Ambessa, his smile fading into something far darker. His voice dropped, laced with venom and quiet rage.

"And you," he said, pointing directly at her, his hand steady despite the distance. "I haven't forgotten that night. When the time comes… you will die by my hands."

Ambessa's smirk vanished, replaced by a flicker of annoyance and anger. Her fists clenched at her sides as her sharp eyes bore into him, but Naruto didn't flinch. Instead, he let his words linger for a moment longer before vanishing in a flash of blue lightning.

The silence that followed was deafening. Caitlyn stood frozen, staring at the spot where Naruto had been, her face a mix of fury and frustration. Ambessa turned her gaze back to the city, her lips pressing into a thin line.

"This was it," Caitlyn muttered to herself, her voice barely audible but heavy with determination. "Let the games begin."

Chapter 17 - The Spoils of War End

A/N

And that's the end… Talk about an ending, huh?

So, what did you think? Was the fight any good? How about Naruto? Last chapter, he said he'd step up as a leader, but this one felt more like him truly sitting down and accepting that role, don't you think?

Also, how do you think Naruto ended up in that room with Jayce? So many questions, right?

First though, I have to ask would you guys like a Christmas special? The idea would be Jinx and Naruto competing to find the best present for Isha. It'd be funny, cute, and a bit shorter, but I think it'd be a nice little moment to share as a one shot chapter.

Let me know what you all think!

Until next time,

Byebye!