Monsters Are Made Not Born Chapter 3 – Sacrifices Arc 1, a Naruto + Arcane Crossover fanfic

A/N

Hello everyone,

Before we begin, I'll answer some reviews since people have been asking questions:

Camrin Finnerty2 – I will tweak the story a bit, but the first season will follow the main events for the most part. That said, I have plenty of plans in store.

kokichi2002 – You're absolutely right, but I'm not telling you which part was correct, haha!

Kabei – Thanks, man. I hope you keep enjoying the story!

Mathew5641 – No worries at all! I'm just glad you're enjoying it so far.

burnseyalex – We'll have all the answers by the end of Act 1.

Now, onto the chapter. It's a bit heavy with the other characters this time, but it also reveals a lot about Naruto. Jayce's part will mostly follow canon, but I've added some details hinting at Naruto's body and his connections to the crystals.

We only have two chapters left before the timeskip, so I hope you're ready, things are about to get crazy.

Now, let's begin...

Chapter 3 – Sacrifices Arc 1

The wreckage of Jayce's apartment still smouldered in places as Piltover enforcers sifted through the remains, cataloguing items scattered across the floor. Broken equipment, shards of volatile hex crystals, and Jayce's scattered notes painted a damning picture. Amidst the chaos, Grayson, the stern but fair enforcer, surveyed the scene with sharp eyes, her presence commanding.

Standing beside her was Viktor, a young but sharp minded assistant to Professor Heimerdinger, the dean of the Academy and head of the Council. Viktor's calculating gaze moved over the debris, his hands clasped behind his back as he analysed the situation.

"So," Grayson said, turning to Viktor, "this is the aftermath of someone tampering with powers far beyond their understanding. I hope Heimerdinger knows what to do with all this."

Viktor nodded, his tone dry but purposeful. "That is precisely why I am here, Enforcer. The dean sent me to ensure that any dangerous remnants of Mr. Talis's work are contained."

Jayce found himself in a cold, dimly lit Piltover jail cell. The echoes of distant footsteps and the clink of metal keys filled the silence as he sat on the edge of the hard cot, his head in his hands. The explosion, the trial, and the warnings he had ignored haunted him.

When the sound of approaching footsteps stopped outside his cell, Jayce looked up to see Professor Heimerdinger standing on the other side of the bars, his small frame barely visible in the dim light. The kind yet disappointed eyes bore into Jayce, and for a moment, neither spoke.

Finally, Heimerdinger broke the silence, his tone calm but firm. "Jayce, I'm sure you understand the gravity of what has happened."

Jayce sighed, his voice heavy. "Yes, Professor. I made a mistake. A huge mistake."

Heimerdinger nodded, stepping closer to the bars. "Mistakes are part of learning, Jayce, but some mistakes come with costs far greater than others. I've seen the consequences of tampering with forces beyond our understanding. The arcane is not to be trifled with."

Jayce frowned, his frustration breaking through. "But I wasn't trifling, Professor! I was trying to create something meaningful something that could change the world for the better."

Heimerdinger's ears twitched, his expression darkening slightly. "Magic," he said, the word hanging in the air. "You were attempting to create magic, weren't you?"

Jayce hesitated, then nodded. "Yes. I believed… I still believe it can be controlled. That with the right tools, the right understanding, it could—"

"Jayce," Heimerdinger interrupted, his tone sharp, "magic is not something that can be controlled through science or sheer will. It is wild, volatile, and dangerous. It has caused untold suffering across generations. If you truly understood its power, you would not attempt to harness it so recklessly."

Jayce's hands clenched into fists, but he said nothing. Heimerdinger sighed, his voice softening. "You are young, Jayce, and your ambitions are admirable. But the arcane… it is not the answer. If you continue down this path, you will face consequences far greater than you can imagine."

"What do you want me to do?" Jayce asked, his voice quiet but bitter. "Give up? Pretend I wasn't trying to create something that could help people?"

"No," Heimerdinger replied firmly. "What I want you to do is take responsibility for your actions. When you stand before the Council, speak nothing of magic. Admit to your mistakes, and they will let you off with a warning—a slap on the wrist, as they say."

Jayce stared at the yordle, his mind racing. Heimerdinger's words made sense, but they also stung. To deny what he was trying to achieve, to let go of the dream that had driven him—it felt like admitting defeat. Yet he knew he had little choice.

Heimerdinger stepped back, his small hands gripping the bars. "Think carefully, Jayce. This is not the end of your journey, but it is a moment that will define your path forward. Choose wisely."

As Heimerdinger's footsteps faded, Jayce leaned back against the wall of his cell, staring up at the ceiling. The weight of his failures pressed down on him, but amidst the regret, a spark of resolve remained. He had made a mistake—a terrible mistake—but he would not abandon his dream entirely.

For Minato. For Kushina. For Naruto.

The morning sun barely reached the depths of Zaun, but the hideout was stirring to life. Naruto woke up feeling more settled than he had since arriving here. Though memories of his past remained a murky blur, his connection to this new life and the friends around him was growing stronger. He stretched, shook off the remnants of sleep, and pulled his black and orange hoodie over his head. With his hood up, he set off to find the others.

He found Mylo, as expected, pacing around with a scheming look on his face, muttering to himself as he worked out yet another plan. Claggor was nearby, chewing thoughtfully on a piece of stale bread, watching Mylo with mild amusement as he tried to figure out how to make a profit. Meanwhile, Vi sat against a wall, arms crossed, her gaze distant and thoughtful.

Naruto approached her, giving a small wave. "Morning, Vi."

Vi looked up, offering him a quick smile. "Morning, Ruto. Feeling better?"

He nodded, a faint smile crossing his face. "Yeah, a bit. Still feels… strange. But I feel more like myself today. Whatever that means."

Vi's smile softened as she gave him an approving nod. "Good. You're fitting in here better than you might think."

Naruto glanced around at the hideout, then back at Vi. "What about you? You look like you've got something on your mind."

Vi sighed, glancing at Powder, who was tinkering with one of her gadgets at the far side of the room. The conversation with Mylo last night was still fresh in her thoughts. She'd defended Powder, knowing her sister had a strength that went beyond what others saw. But deep down, Vi also felt that Zaun was no place for a girl like Powder innocent, gifted, and constantly underestimated.

"I just… I keep thinking about this place, Ruto," she began, her voice low. "Zaun's all we've got, but it's not enough. Not for Powder. Not for any of us. I want to make this city a better place… a place where people respect us, a place that isn't always looking down on us because we're from the undercity."

Naruto listened, sensing the weight in her words. He didn't know what kind of future awaited him, but something in Vi's resolve sparked something inside him. He, too, wanted to make a difference. Even without his memories, he felt a need to protect, to stand up for those around him. Maybe it was his purpose.

"We'll get there," Naruto said, his voice filled with quiet determination. "We'll make this place better. And if anyone can do it, it's you, Vi."

Vi looked at him, surprised by the conviction in his voice, and gave him an appreciative nod. "You've got a good heart, Ruto. Stick with us, and maybe we can make something of ourselves. Make this city something it's never been."

Mylo wandered over, still grumbling about his latest plan to make money, and Claggor joined them, offering what was left of the bread. The group exchanged looks, united by an unspoken understanding. They were a ragtag bunch, bound by loyalty and shared struggles, and each of them had dreams that went beyond surviving in the undercity.

Powder joined them, holding up a gadget she'd just finished tweaking. Her eyes were bright, filled with pride as she showed it to the group.

"Look! I made some adjustments, and now it's even more powerful," she announced, her voice bubbling with excitement.

Naruto and Vi exchanged smiles, both of them proud of Powder's growing confidence. They knew, just as Powder was starting to realize, that she had a unique talent a talent that could one day be recognized beyond the confines of Zaun for better or worse, only time would have tell….

Mylo and Claggor wanted to discuss some things with Vander, Vi joined them, hoping to speak with Vander about her ideas for the future, about making Zaun a better place, a place where they could all thrive without being looked down upon.

But Naruto, still adjusting to his new life in Zaun, wasn't quite sure where he fit into the day's plans. Powder noticed his quiet uncertainty and, sensing an opportunity to cheer him up, suggested they go to the docks together.

"The docks?" Naruto asked, his curiosity piqued. "What's it like there?"

Powder smiled, her excitement infectious. "It's not exactly nice," she admitted, "but it's quiet, and you can see the water. It's one of my favourite places to go when I need to think. Plus, I can show you around."

Naruto's face lit up, and he nodded eagerly. "Let's go!"

Vi turned to them with a quick smile as they set off. "We'll catch up with you guys there. We just need to talk to Vander about some things. Don't get into too much trouble," she added, giving Powder a playful nudge.

Powder rolled her eyes, laughing. "We'll be fine, Vi!"

With that, Naruto and Powder headed off, navigating the winding streets of Zaun as Powder led the way.

The Kiramman estate was unusually quiet, the usual air of refinement and calm replaced by a heavy tension that hung over its halls. Tobias and Cassandra Kiramman sat in their grand study, the glow of the fireplace casting flickering shadows across their worried faces. Caitlyn, their daughter, stood nearby, her arms crossed as she leaned against a bookshelf, her expression somber.

The room had been filled with whispered discussions for hours. The devastating explosion at the Uzumaki residence and the news of Minato and Kushina's deaths had rocked Piltover's elite, but it was the mystery of Naruto's fate that had left the Kirammans particularly shaken. As patrons and close friends of the Uzumakis, they felt the tragedy deeply.

"We still don't know anything," Cassandra said, her voice trembling slightly as she broke the silence. "The enforcers have searched, but… there's no sign of Naruto."

Tobias exhaled heavily, his hands steepled in thought. "Until they find him one way or another there can be no funeral. No closure."

Caitlyn's gaze dropped, her fists clenching. She had grown up knowing the Uzumaki's, their home often filled with warmth and laughter. Naruto, though younger, had always been a source of joy for her. The thought of him missing, alone or worse left a knot of unease in her chest.

"Do you think… do you think he's still alive?" Caitlyn asked quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Cassandra hesitated, looking at her husband. Tobias's face was unreadable, but his tone was heavy when he spoke. "We have to hope, Caitlyn. Until we know for certain, we must assume he's out there. Somewhere."

The room fell silent again, the weight of uncertainty pressing on them all. But the conversation soon shifted to another matter the predicament of Jayce Talis. The young inventor's explosion had been a separate tragedy, but its timing and the danger it represented had drawn widespread attention, placing the Kirammans in a precarious position.

"As Jayce's patrons, we bear a responsibility," Tobias said, his voice steady but strained. "We've supported his work, sponsored his research. To abandon him now, when he needs us most, would be… dishonorable."

Cassandra nodded, though her expression was troubled. "But what he was doing those crystals, the risks he took it's not just dangerous, Tobias. It's reckless. And now, with the Uzumaki's… people will draw connections, whether they exist or not."

Caitlyn looked up, her sharp mind already considering the implications. "But Jayce isn't responsible for what happened to the Uzumakis. That explosion wasn't his doing."

"True," Tobias agreed, "but perception matters, Caitlyn. The Council will not look kindly on him, and his reputation has already taken a hit. If we defend him, we risk being associated with his failures."

Caitlyn frowned, stepping forward. "So what do we do? Leave him to face this alone? That's not who we are."

Cassandra reached out to place a reassuring hand on her daughter's arm. "No, Caitlyn. That's not who we are. But we must tread carefully. The Kiramman name is not just ours; it represents our family, our values, and our role in Piltover's leadership. We will defend Jayce, but we must do so in a way that does not diminish our credibility."

Tobias nodded. "We will speak to the Council, offer our support where we can. But Jayce must take responsibility for his actions. He must acknowledge his mistakes and prove that he is capable of learning from them."

Caitlyn glanced between her parents, her jaw set. "He's lost so much already his work, his reputation. We can't let him lose everything. He needs us."

Her parents exchanged a look, Cassandra nodding slightly. "You're right, Caitlyn. Jayce is like family to us, but we will have to find a way to help without ruining our imagine on Council."

The conversation shifted back to the Uzumaki's, the sorrow in the room deepening. Tobias leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on the flames in the fireplace. "Minato and Kushina… they were good people. They didn't deserve this."

"No," Cassandra agreed, her voice trembling slightly. "They didn't. And Naruto…"

Her words trailed off, the unspoken thought hanging in the air: Naruto didn't deserve this either.

Caitlyn stood tall, her resolve hardening. "If Naruto's alive, we'll find him. We owe that much to Minato and Kushina."

Tobias gave her a faint smile, a flicker of pride in his tired eyes. "You've always had their spirit, Caitlyn."

As the fire crackled softly, the Kirammans sat together, the weight of their responsibilities pressing down on them. They were pillars of Piltover, bound by duty and loyalty to the people they cared about. In the days to come, they would fight to protect Jayce from the Council's wrath while quietly mourning the Uzumaki's and searching for any sign of the boy they had loved like family.

The streets around them were bustling with Zaunites going about their daily routines, vendors calling out their wares, and groups of workers trudging to and from the factories. Naruto took it all in, fascinated by the sights, sounds, and colours that made Zaun feel so alive.

"It's different down here, isn't it?" Naruto mused as they walked.

"Yeah," Powder replied, nodding. "It's messy, and a lot of people are struggling, but… it's home, you know? There's something comforting about it, even with all the rough stuff."

Naruto smiled, admiring her perspective. He was beginning to understand the bond that Powder and her friends shared with Zaun. They had each other, and they had this place a place that may not have been perfect, but was theirs.

After a while, they reached the docks. It wasn't exactly scenic; the water was murky and dotted with rusted boats, and the air was tinged with the smell of metal and oil. But there was a certain peace to it. The vastness of the water stretched out before them, almost making Zaun feel small, a quiet corner of a larger world.

Powder led him to a spot near the edge, where they sat down side by side, dangling their feet over the water below. Naruto closed his eyes for a moment, taking in the cool breeze, the sounds of seagulls in the distance, and the rhythmic lapping of water against the docks.

"You know, I think I get why you like this place," he said finally, opening his eyes to look at her. "It's kind of… peaceful."

Powder nodded, her expression soft as she gazed out over the water. "Yeah. It helps me clear my head. When I'm here, it's like… all the worries just drift away."

Naruto studied her for a moment, feeling a warmth in his chest. Powder had been nothing but kind to him since he'd arrived, and he was grateful for the friendship they were building. Though he couldn't remember his past, he knew that here, with her and the others, he felt like he belonged.

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, each lost in their thoughts, until Powder turned to him with a sudden, excited smile. "So, Ruto," she began, her eyes sparkling, "what do you think you'd want to do here? Like, if you could do anything in Zaun, what would it be?"

Naruto pondered her question, realizing that his answer had changed over the past few days. When he first arrived, all he wanted was to remember his past, to understand who he was. But now… now he had something new. A sense of purpose. A desire to protect these people who had taken him in.

"I think I'd want to help protect you guys," he said thoughtfully. "To make sure you and everyone else in Zaun are safe. I know I don't remember much about who I was, but I feel like maybe that's what I'm meant to do."

Powder looked at him, her face brightening with admiration. "That's… really cool, Ruto. I think you'd be amazing at it."

Naruto laughed, rubbing the back of his head, embarrassed. "You think so?"

"Definitely," Powder replied, her voice filled with conviction. "You're already part of our family, and you've been looking out for me from day one. I think you'd be great at protecting people."

They sat there, sharing a quiet understanding, their bond deepening with every word as they watched the dark waves lap against the rusted hulls of abandoned boats. Naruto felt a familiar weight in his pocket, and on an impulse, he reached in and pulled out one of the Hex Crystals Powder had shown him earlier.

He held it up, the brilliant blue glow casting a soft light over his face. There was something about it something he couldn't quite explain. It felt like more than just a strange artifact. It felt like a part of him, something he was meant to wield.

"Didn't you say those were dangerous?" Powder asked quietly, her eyes flickering with concern.

"Yeah, they are," Naruto replied, but his gaze was fixated on the crystal. The faint blue light in his eyes seemed to brighten, almost mirroring the glow of the crystal itself. "But it's like… it's like I'm supposed to use it. I don't know why, but I feel like there's a connection."

Powder looked at him, unsure but trusting. But before she could respond, a mocking voice broke the quiet.

"Well, well. Look what we have here."

They turned to see a group of older street kids urchins from another part of Zaun. Leading them was Deckard, a rough looking boy with a crooked grin and a dangerous gleam in his eyes. Behind him stood a handful of his thugs, each looking at Naruto and Powder with greedy interest.

Deckard's gaze landed on the crystal in Naruto's hand, his eyes narrowing. "That looks like something worth sharing, don't you think?"

Naruto instinctively tightened his grip on the crystal, his expression hardening. "And why would I do that?"

Deckard's smirk faltered, and he tilted his head, sizing Naruto up. "I haven't seen you around here before. New kid, huh? Great. That'll make this a lot easier."

He took a step forward, his grin twisting into a sneer. Powder shrank back, gripping Naruto's arm as her eyes darted nervously between Deckard and his gang. Naruto could feel her fear and shifted to stand in front of her, his own gaze never leaving Deckard.

"Leave us alone," Naruto said, his voice steady and unafraid.

Deckard let out a mocking laugh, glancing back at his gang before looking back at Naruto with a smirk. "Or what? You think you can take us on by yourself?"

Without another word, Deckard swung at Naruto, but Naruto's body moved on instinct, dodging easily. It was as if his body remembered a skill his mind had forgotten. In one fluid motion, he threw a right hook, landing a solid punch on Deckard's jaw. Deckard stumbled back, clearly caught off guard by the strength of Naruto's punch.

"Get him!" Deckard snarled, wiping a trickle of blood from his lip as he staggered to his feet.

The other thugs charged at Naruto, fists raised and sneers plastered on their faces. Naruto braced himself, ready to fight, even as his main focus remained on keeping Powder safe. He moved with surprising agility, dodging blows and landing punches, his movements almost automatic, as if some long buried training was resurfacing in response to the threat.

"Powder, run!" Naruto shouted, but before she could respond, Vi, Claggor, and Mylo appeared, rushing in to join the fray.

"Looks like you could use some help!" Vi called, a fierce grin on her face as she tackled one of Deckard's thugs. Mylo and Claggor joined in, and soon the dock became a chaotic scene, fists flying, shouts echoing, and the sounds of grunts and scuffling filling the air.

The fight was intense, a whirlwind of punches, kicks, and dodges as they battled Deckard's gang. Each of them took hits, bruises beginning to show as they defended one another. Naruto's focus never wavered from protecting Powder, his body moving with a strange sense of purpose that felt almost foreign but entirely right.

Just when they thought they had the upper hand, Deckard staggered to his feet, his face bloodied and bruised. His hand went to his pocket, and he pulled out a glinting knife, his eyes fixed on Naruto with fury.

Naruto tensed, stepping back protectively in front of Powder. Vi, who was nearby, took a step forward, her gaze fierce. "Think about it, Deckard. Do you really want to see how this ends?"

Naruto's grip tightened on the crystal in his hand, its light flaring slightly as his own eyes began to glow a brighter blue, the energy seeming to pulse through him. For a moment, there was a strange, electrifying tension in the air, the power of the crystal humming in his hand. Deckard's eyes widened, his gaze shifting from Naruto to the glowing crystal and back.

Beaten, bruised, and now facing something he didn't understand, Deckard hesitated, his confidence faltering. With one last look at Naruto, he muttered a curse under his breath, lowered his knife, and turned, limping away as his gang followed in retreat.

The silence that followed was thick with relief and exhaustion. Powder let out a shaky breath, her eyes wide as she looked at Naruto.

"Thank you… for protecting me," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude.

Vi stepped forward, wiping the blood from her split lip as she gave Naruto an approving nod. "You did good, Ruto. I owe you one for looking out for Powder."

Naruto shook his head, a faint smile on his face. "Nah. It's what family does, right?"

Everyone fell silent, Naruto's words lingering in the air. They exchanged glances, each of them feeling the weight of that word, family. They had been through countless scrapes and fights together, but there was something different about this moment. Naruto had come into their lives unexpectedly, yet here he was, risking everything to protect them. To protect Powder.

Powder looked at him, her eyes softening, a shy smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah. Family."

The others smiled, nodding in agreement, and for the first time, Naruto felt a warmth spreading through him that went beyond relief or gratitude. It was the feeling of belonging, of being part of something bigger than himself a bond that didn't require memory or blood, only loyalty and trust.

As the group sat together on the dock, a semblance of peace settling in after the chaos of the fight, Vi's mind was somewhere else entirely. She glanced at Naruto, who was gently reassuring Powder, his calm presence steadying her frayed nerves. She watched the way he shielded her sister, stepping in without hesitation, a silent promise to protect her. And in that moment, a thought took root in Vi's mind, growing stronger with every second.

Vi clenched her fists, her gaze turning distant. She had always wanted something better for Powder, something beyond the endless cycle of survival and fear. But now, with the enforcers prowling Zaun, combing through the undercity in search of them, Vi could see the shadow of danger looming over them. Their scrape with Deckard and his gang was a reminder: Zaun was unforgiving, and being strong wasn't always enough to keep them safe.

Maybe she was selfish for thinking this way. Maybe it was foolish to want more, to think they could rise above the world Piltover had forced them into. But in her heart, Vi knew what she wanted. She wanted Powder to have a life where she didn't have to look over her shoulder, didn't have to live in fear of enforcers, or the relentless cycle of violence in Zaun.

Her thoughts raced as she imagined a future where Powder was safe, where she could use her gifts, her inventiveness, without worry. It felt like an impossible dream, but one she couldn't ignore. Vi glanced at Naruto again, feeling a surge of gratitude for the way he had protected Powder, defended her with the kind of loyalty that made him family. His strength gave her an idea, a possibility she hadn't considered before.

Maybe he could be the hero Powder needed.

The grand Council chambers of Piltover were filled with an air of tension and anticipation. The seven Councillors Medarda, Heimerdinger, Kiramman, Hoskel, Shoola, Salo, and Bolbok sat at their elevated seats, their faces a mixture of intrigue and severity as they prepared for the trial. The recent tragedies, including the explosion at the Uzumaki estate, weighed heavily on their minds, shaping their judgment.

Grayson, the steadfast enforcer, entered the chambers with Jayce Talis in tow. Jayce's shoulders were slumped, his face pale but resolute. He felt the weight of every gaze on him as he approached the centre of the chamber, standing in the spotlight before the Council.

"Bring the accused forward," Mrs. Cassandra Kiramman declared, her voice steady despite the internal conflict she felt. Her heart ached as she glanced at Jayce. She thought of Minato and Kushina, their lives cut short, and the potential connection between the tragedies. Yet she knew her duty as a Councillor required impartiality.

As Jayce stood, Cassandra began to read the charges against him. "Jayce Talis, you stand accused of illegal experimentation with volatile substances, endangering the lives of Piltover citizens, and causing widespread damage through your recklessness."

Jayce swallowed hard, his voice steady but tinged with regret as he addressed the Council. "I admit my work was dangerous. I allowed my ambition to cloud my judgment. For that, I ask for your forgiveness."

The Council murmured among themselves, but Jayce continued, his voice rising with conviction. "But I also ask for your permission to continue my studies. I know that what I've been working on can help Piltover help us all. I've seen it work before."

Cassandra's gaze narrowed slightly at his words. "You've seen it work?" she pressed. "What do you mean, Jayce?"

He wouldn't...

For a fleeting moment, Jayce hesitated, his mind flashing back to Minato's quiet warnings and the miracle of Naruto's birth. He had promised Minato never to speak of it, to keep that moment a secret, and even now, in the face of potential ruin, he honoured that promise.

Was he really, about to tell everyone about that night...

Shaking her head slightly, Cassandra thinks at her daughter with a heavy heart. "I'm sorry," she says softly, her voice trembling with resolve. She makes her decision, firm in her belief that it's for the betterment of the world. "Jayce cannot be allowed to continue..."

"It's just something I believe," he said, avoiding her eyes. "Something I feel in my heart."

The Councilors were unsatisfied with his evasive answer. The questions came fast and sharp, the Council hammering him with accusations of recklessness, selfishness, and disregard for safety. The weight of their judgments bore down on Jayce until he could hold back no longer.

"I was trying to create magic!" he blurted out, his voice echoing in the chamber.

The Council fell silent, their disbelief palpable. Even Heimerdinger's wise and composed expression faltered, his bushy brows rising in surprise.

Jayce pressed on, his voice trembling but determined. "I believe magic can be created, controlled, and used to benefit Piltover. I believe it can be harnessed through science. Imagine a future where we can wield its power for good to light our city, to protect it!"

Heimerdinger finally spoke, his tone heavy with the weight of centuries of experience. "Jayce, you do not understand the forces you are tampering with. Magic is not a tool to be controlled by science. It is wild, volatile, and devastating. I have seen the horrors it can bring wars, destruction, entire civilizations brought to ruin. Do not let your ambition blind you to its dangers."

Bolbok, the staunch Councilor known for his adherence to Piltover's laws, stood abruptly. "The Ethos is clear," he declared. "Jayce Talis has violated our trust and endangered our city. He must be banished from Piltover."

The Council erupted in debate, voices rising as the Councilors argued over the appropriate punishment. Jayce stood in stunned silence, feeling the world slip away from him.

Just then, a voice rose from the audience. "Please, stop!"

The Council turned to see Ximena Talis, Jayce's mother, stepping forward. Her face was streaked with tears, but her voice was firm as she addressed the Council. "My son is not in his right mind. He has suffered greatly from this ordeal, and his judgment has been clouded. I beg you, let him come home. Let me care for him."

Heimerdinger watched her for a moment, his expression softening slightly. He turned back to the Council. "Jayce's actions were reckless, but there is still hope for him. I move that he be expelled from the Academy and remanded to his parents' care. Let him learn the gravity of his mistakes, not through banishment, but through reflection and guidance."

Councilors Medarda, Kiramman, and Hoskel nodded in agreement. Cassandra, though conflicted, cast her vote in favor, swayed by Ximena's plea and Heimerdinger's wisdom.

Bolbok, Shoola, and Salo voted against the motion, but the 4-3 majority carried. The motion passed.

Jayce left the Council chambers under the watchful eyes of the enforcers, his heart heavy but beating with a flicker of hope. His dreams of changing the world had been shattered, his ambition tempered by the harsh reality of his mistakes. Yet, as he walked beside his mother, her comforting presence a reminder of the support he still had, he silently vowed:

"I'll make this right. For Minato, Kushina… and Naruto. I'll find a way to make this world better. I'll prove that magic, if handled with care, can bring light to the darkness."

Within the confines of the Academy, Viktor carefully assisted Heimerdinger as they worked to consolidate Jayce's research. The remnants of experiments, diagrams, and calculations lay scattered across the workshop. Heimerdinger moved methodically, his expression grim as he reviewed the materials.

"These findings," Heimerdinger muttered, shaking his head, "are dangerous. Ambitious, yes, but also reckless. Jayce's methods show promise, but they lack the restraint necessary to wield such power safely."

Viktor stood nearby, silently observing the work. He picked up a page of notes, his sharp mind quickly digesting the intricate diagrams of crystals and energy resonances. While Heimerdinger's disapproval loomed heavily over the room, Viktor's curiosity burned brightly.

"It is fascinating, though," Viktor finally said, his voice low, almost hesitant. "The way the crystals resonate… there's a method here. A pattern."

Heimerdinger turned to him, his expression stern. "Fascination has been the downfall of many, Viktor. Remember that these are not tools to be wielded lightly. We must ensure that this research is not used again."

The dean began packing the materials away, clearly intending to destroy them, and left Viktor with a simple instruction: "Lock up when you're done."

But as Heimerdinger exited, Viktor found himself alone in the room, staring at Jayce's scattered work. His fingers lingered over the notes, flipping through diagrams and calculations with growing intrigue. The young assistant's sharp mind pieced together connections and possibilities, his scientific curiosity overriding any initial reservations.

"Not all risks are failures," Viktor murmured to himself, his eyes narrowing in determination as he tucked one of the notebooks under his arm before locking the room as instructed.

Jayce's journey to the Kiramman estate was a quiet, pensive one. He approached the familiar gates with hesitation, unsure of what reception awaited him. As he neared the entrance, he spotted Caitlyn on the other side, her expression a mixture of surprise and guarded caution.

"Caitlyn," Jayce called, his voice carrying a note of desperation. "I need to talk to you."

Caitlyn approached the gate reluctantly, her hands gripping the iron bars. "Jayce, I don't think this is a good idea."

"I just… I wanted to apologize," Jayce said quickly, his words tumbling over themselves. "For everything. For the trouble I've caused your family. I didn't mean for any of this to happen."

Caitlyn sighed, her shoulders sagging. "It's not just about you, Jayce. My parents… they think your actions put everyone at risk. And after what happened to the Uzumaki's…"

Her words trailed off, and the weight of their shared grief hung heavily between them. Before Jayce could respond, Mrs. Cassandra Kiramman's voice called sharply from the estate.

"Caitlyn! Come inside."

Caitlyn hesitated, casting an apologetic glance back at Jayce. "I'm sorry," she whispered before turning and heading toward the house.

Jayce stepped closer to the gate, his hands gripping the bars. "Cassandra, please, I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I—"

Mrs. Kiramman appeared at the front door, her face set in a cold, composed expression. "Jayce, I suggest you leave. Whatever apology you're trying to offer is not enough to undo what's been done."

Her words stung, but Jayce didn't argue. He nodded silently, his heart heavy, and turned to leave.

Jayce returned to the wreckage of his study, his footsteps echoing in the hollow silence of the room. The walls bore scorch marks, and shattered glass crunched beneath his boots. The gaping hole in the wall overlooked the streets of Piltover, a view that had once inspired him with dreams of progress but now only reminded him of his failures.

He approached the edge, the wind tugging at his coat as he stared down. The weight of his guilt, the loss of Minato and Kushina, and the rejection of those he had once considered allies bore down on him. His dreams felt like ashes in his hands, his ambitions reduced to a source of pain and danger.

Jayce closed his eyes, the thought of letting go creeping into his mind.

"You're going to waste all this potential?"

The voice startled him, pulling him back from the precipice. He turned to see Viktor standing in the doorway, a book of Jayce's notes clutched in his hands.

Jayce frowned, his voice trembling with disbelief. "Why are you here? To remind me how much I failed?"

Viktor stepped forward, his calm demeanour contrasting with Jayce's turmoil. "No. I'm here because I've seen what you were trying to do. And I think you're onto something."

Jayce blinked, stunned. "You… you agree with me?"

Viktor nodded, holding up the notes. "What you said at the trial about creating magic through science it intrigued me. I want to help you. I think together, we can make this work."

Jayce shook his head, overwhelmed. "I don't even know who you are."

Viktor smiled faintly. "It's Viktor."

The name hung in the air as Jayce stared at him, a flicker of hope breaking through his despair. For the first time since the explosion, he felt a glimmer of possibility, a chance to rebuild not just his work, but himself.

"Alright, Viktor," Jayce said after a long pause, his voice steadying. "Let's see what we can do."

Vi's footsteps were heavy as she returned to the Last Drop, her mind swirling with a mixture of determination and dread. She knew what she had to do. The enforcers were closing in, and every moment she delayed put her family—especially Powder—in greater danger. She had seen Naruto's strength, his courage, and the loyalty that radiated from him. She could trust him, she was sure of it. And so, she had made her decision.

When Vi entered the hideout, she found Powder hunched over a workbench, completely absorbed in her latest project. The small table was littered with parts and pieces of discarded gadgets, all in various stages of completion. Powder was working on a set of smoke bombs and nail grenades, her face alight with excitement and focus as she twisted a small wire into place.

"Powder," Vi called softly, her voice tender.

Powder looked up, her blue eyes bright with pride. "Look, Vi! I think these will actually work this time! I'm going to make sure the enforcers regret ever coming here."

Vi smiled, feeling a surge of pride and sadness all at once. She stepped closer, her hand reaching into her pocket. She pulled out a stuffed rabbit, worn and a little frayed, but still beloved. Powder's face lit up in surprise.

"My rabbit! You… you got it down?" Powder gasped, her voice filled with awe as she reached out, cradling the stuffed toy in her hands.

Vi nodded, a soft smile on her lips. "I climbed up to get it. Thought you'd want it by your side, Powder."

Powder hugged the rabbit close, her fingers brushing over its worn fur. She looked up at Vi, her expression one of deep admiration and love. Vi took a deep breath, her heart pounding as she knelt down in front of her sister.

"Powder," she began, her voice soft but steady, "I want you to remember something. What makes you different, it makes you strong. You've got this spark, something special that no one else has. Don't let anyone take that from you, okay?"

Powder's smile wavered, sensing the weight in her sister's words. "Vi… why are you saying all this?"

Vi gave her a small, sad smile. "I just want you to know. No matter what happens, you're stronger than you think."

Before Powder could ask anything more, Vi stood up, her gaze turning toward the stairs. She had one more person to talk to.

Vi found Naruto outside, leaning against the wall, lost in thought. He straightened when he saw her approach, noting the serious look on her face. He immediately felt a flicker of unease.

"Vi? What's going on?" he asked, his tone cautious.

Vi took a deep breath, her gaze steady. "Ruto, there's something I need you to do for me."

Naruto's confusion deepened, but he nodded, sensing the urgency in her voice. "Of course. What is it?"

Vi looked away for a moment, gathering her thoughts. Then, with a steady resolve, she met his gaze. "I need you to promise me that no matter what happens, you'll protect Powder. You keep her safe, you hear me?"

Naruto's eyes widened in surprise. "Of course I will. But… why the sudden change? What's going on?"

Vi's expression softened, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and sorrow. "I'm glad we found you, you know. When we first saw you, you were hurt bad. It looked like… like something terrible happened to you. But you survived, and you've been here, helping us, being a part of us. I know you're different. You're a topsider."

Naruto's heart skipped a beat, her words hitting close to something he had always suspected but never fully acknowledged. He opened his mouth to respond, but Vi shook her head, continuing before he could speak.

"When your memories come back, and if you ever go back to them, don't forget us. Don't forget me, or Powder, or everything we've been through together. And if you ever get the chance… come back for us. Save us."

Naruto stared at her, his mind reeling. He had felt hints, flashes of another life, another place, but hearing her speak the truth out loud made it feel real in a way it hadn't before. He wanted to protest, to tell her that he wasn't going anywhere, that he would stay here and protect them all. But Vi's expression told him she had already made her choice.

"Vi…" he murmured, his voice shaky with emotion. "Why are you saying all this? What are you planning to do?"

Vi managed a small, bittersweet smile. "I'm just doing what I think is right. I'm going to give you all a chance. Just… look after Powder, okay?"

Naruto felt a lump rise in his throat, the enormity of her words settling over him like a heavy weight. He could only nod, the promise binding him to her with a gravity he couldn't explain. "I will, Vi. I swear I will."

She reached out, resting a hand on his shoulder, giving it a firm squeeze. "I know you will, Ruto. You're strong stronger than you know. Thank you… for being here. For saving her."

With one last lingering look, Vi turned and walked away, her steps purposeful as she disappeared into the shadows of Zaun. Naruto stood there, frozen, his mind struggling to process everything she had told him. His heart ached, his instincts screaming at him to go after her, to stop her from whatever she was planning. But he could feel the weight of her decision in every step she had taken.

Later that night, Naruto returned to the Last Drop, finding Powder alone, still clutching the stuffed rabbit Vi had given her. She looked up as he entered, her face lighting up for a brief moment before she noticed the worry etched into his expression.

"Ruto? What's wrong?" Powder asked, her voice small and uncertain.

Naruto forced a smile, sitting down beside her. "Nothing… nothing to worry about, Powder. I just… I want you to know that I'll always be here for you, okay?"

Powder's gaze searched his face, sensing the unease in his voice. "Where's Vi? She… she didn't say goodbye."

Naruto hesitated, the truth weighing heavily on his shoulders. He reached out, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. "She's… she's doing what she thinks is best for you. And I'm going to stay here to make sure you're safe. That's what she wants."

Powder's expression wavered, her eyes filling with worry and confusion. She hugged the rabbit closer, her voice barely a whisper. "But… she'll come back, right?"

Naruto swallowed, his chest tight with unspoken fears. "Yeah, Powder. She'll come back. And until then, I'll be right here."

In another part of the city, Marcus stood stiffly before Sheriff Grayson, his face flushed with frustration as he faced her scolding.

"Do you have any idea what you've done?" Grayson hissed, her voice tight with restrained anger. "Going into the Last Drop like that raiding Vander's place. You're a fool, Marcus."

Marcus's jaw clenched, his fists curling at his sides. "I was getting results. Those kids caused the damage up top. They're trouble, and if we don't put them in their place now, Zaun will think it can do whatever it wants."

Grayson's expression darkened. "And do you think stomping through their turf will solve anything? You've pushed them to the edge, Marcus. A violent outbreak is now inevitable because of your recklessness. Now we will never find out if Naruto is alive or not."

Before Marcus could respond, a small click echoed in the room, and both of them turned to see a pneumatic messaging tube click into place, delivering a sealed capsule. Grayson opened it, pulling out the capsule and examining it. Inside was a message, one she recognized immediately. Her face softened, a flicker of hope breaking through her frustration.

"It may not be too late," Grayson murmured, almost to herself. She turned to Marcus, a flicker of warning in her eyes. "This message is from Vander."

Marcus scoffed, folding his arms. "What makes you think Vander's going to change anything? The man is a criminal."

Grayson shot him a sharp look, her tone laced with both authority and trust. "Vander's more than that. He wants peace just as much as we do. He's a voice of reason in Zaun a voice you've disregarded too easily."

She tucked the capsule away, her thoughts racing. The message Vander had sent her earlier in the day played in her mind. They had met alone, Vander expressing concerns over the tensions bubbling beneath the surface, the way Zaun and Piltover's divide was growing ever wider. He had offered a reluctant truce, a chance to ease the pressure, to keep both sides from exploding. But Marcus's rash actions had pushed everything to the brink.

Grayson took a steadying breath, a plan forming. She needed to get to Vander before things escalated even further. If there was any chance to salvage this, to prevent the brewing storm, it was now.

"Ruto? What's wrong?" Powder asked, her voice small and uncertain.

Naruto forced a smile, sitting down beside her. "Nothing… nothing to worry about, Powder. I just… I want you to know that I'll always be here for you, okay?"

Powder's gaze searched his face, sensing the unease in his voice. "Where's Vi? She… she didn't say goodbye."

Powder's expression wavered, her eyes filling with worry and confusion. She hugged the rabbit closer, her voice barely a whisper. "But… she'll come back, right?"

Naruto swallowed, his chest tight with unspoken fears. "Yeah, Powder. She'll come back. And until then, I'll be right here."

Vander arrives as he poured himself and Naruto a drink, his mind elsewhere. Naruto sat across from him, nursing his own thoughts, worry for Powder and the ominous absence of Vi weighing heavily on him. As they sat, Vander's gaze drifted toward the stuffed rabbit

Vander's heart sank as his gaze shifted to Naruto, a creeping realization dawning over him. He locked eyes with Naruto, reading the boy's tense expression and the way he held himself, as though he, too, was grappling with something too big to voice. Silently, Vander pieced it together Vi had gone to turn herself in.

"Stay here with Powder," Vander said abruptly, rising from his seat with an urgency that left no room for argument. He didn't wait for Naruto's response, already heading for the door, his mind racing with both anger and dread. He knew what Vi was capable of, her drive to protect her family, to make things right at any cost. But this was too far, and he had to stop her before it was too late.

Chapter 3 – Sacrifices Arc 1 End

A/N

Small cliffhanger… I'm soooo sorryy

The next chapter is a long one, wrapping up our first arc and leading into the timeskip.

Things are about to get wild as Naruto and Powder grow closer, but it will come at a cost.

Until next time,
Byebye!