Hey, everyone!

Here's another one! Sorry, we were supposed to post yesterday but holiday is over and we had to prepare for work again.

Disclaimer: We do not own any Franchise. We just love being imaginative.

Chapter - 13

The biting Belobog wind whipped around the bustling figures as the Belobog Scientific Expeditionary Team prepared for their crucial mission into the Frostweave Foothills. Usually, these elaborate departures were a carefully choreographed ballet of efficiency, taking days of meticulous planning and execution. But today, an almost frenzied energy thrummed through the air, fueled by an unexpected stroke of luck and the sheer, tireless effort of a certain blonde ninja.

Officer Penya Sergeyevna, her silver uniform gleaming in the weak sunlight, pointed a gloved finger at a specific crate labeled 'Seismic Sensors.' "Naruto, over there. Make sure that one's secured tightly. We can't afford any equipment malfunctions this far out."

"And, a few more of the insulated tents on the far right, please. And make sure the emergency rations are easily accessible."

Naruto gave a thumbs-up, his clones dissolving in puffs of smoke as they completed their tasks. He appreciated Penya's directness, a refreshing change from the often convoluted bureaucracy he'd encountered in his line of work.

Around her, the usual organized chaos was amplified by the presence of dozens of Naruto's shadow clones. They zipped and zoomed, carrying boxes, tightening straps, and double-checking manifests with bewildering speed. The large snow truck, usually a bottleneck in the loading process, was being filled with almost supernatural efficiency. It was a sight to behold, and one Penya still found slightly unsettling despite its undeniable benefit.

A day early. They were leaving a day early. It still felt like a dream. The logistical nightmares that usually plagued expeditions of this scale had miraculously vanished. Missing permits, delayed deliveries, even a stubbornly malfunctioning engine on one of the transport vehicles – all problems mysteriously resolved overnight. Penya suspected the short appearance of a wide-eyed grin Landou girl, Serval had given her that morning held the key, alongside Naruto's baffling explanations of "shadow clones doing paperwork" and "substitution jutsu on a stuck valve." Whatever they had done, it had been a miracle.

Dr. Viktor Morozov, a man whose perpetually worried expression was etched deeper than the lines on his weathered face, approached Penya with a hesitant cough. "Officer Sergeyevna," he began, his voice thick with remorse, "I… I wanted to personally apologize again for my nephews behavior. It was unacceptable, and I assure you, his actions do not reflect the views of our family."

Penya nodded curtly, her gaze fixed on Naruto directing a small army of his clones. Lev Morozov, her ex-fiancé, had made a rather public and embarrassing scene just days before, fueled by jealousy and a bruised ego. Naruto, a newcomer to Belobog but surprisingly adept at understanding social dynamics, had intervened, his defense of Penya bordering on the theatrical but undeniably effective. It was a stark contrast to Lev's entitled arrogance.

"Thank you, Doctor," Penya said, her voice cool but not unkind. The apology was appreciated, even if it brought back unpleasant memories.

Officer Hamel Petrova, his keen eyes scanning the geological survey equipment, clapped Naruto on the shoulder as the ninja passed by. "Impressive work, lad! Heard you put that arrogant fool in his place. Anyone who stands up for Officer Sergeyevna has my respect." A rare smile touched the corners of his mouth. Hamel, usually reserved and focused solely on rocks and strata, seemed genuinely impressed.

A flurry of excited chatter announced the arrival of Amy, the expedition's photographer. Her camera, ever-present, clicked incessantly. "Naruto, was it really like in those stories? Did you really, like,vanishand then suddenly appear behind him? And did you make, like, a hundred copies of yourself? That's so cool! Is this the power of your pathstrider?"

Before Naruto could answer Amy's barrage of enthusiastic questions, one of her more pragmatic colleagues, a burly man named Boris, gently but firmly pulled her away. "Amy, focus. We need to document the proper loading procedures, not interrogate the… uh… young man."

"Excuse me, I have a letter for Officer Penya Sergevena." Just as the last of the supplies were being secured, a young Silvermane Guard approached Penya with a sealed envelope. The official seal of the Ministry of Resource Allocation was unmistakable. Penya took it with a sigh. Even with the unexpected early departure, she knew some headaches were unavoidable.

She waited until the immediate bustle around her subsided before tearing open the envelope. The crisp paper within held the confirmation of their expedition's approval, along with a detailed breakdown of allocated personnel. Penya's brow furrowed as she scanned the numbers. This was not right.

According to the initial proposal, they were supposed to have a security detail of fifteen Silvermane Guards, crucial for navigating the potentially dangerous wilds beyond the city walls. They were also promised ten experienced logistics workers to assist with the heavy lifting and camp setup.

The letter in her hand listed two Silvermane Guards, their names unfamiliar, and two logistics workers. Two.

A cold knot formed in Penya's stomach. This was sabotage, plain and simple. Despite Naruto and Serval's incredible efforts, despite the accelerated timeline, someone, somewhere, was actively trying to undermine their expedition. The lack of manpower was a critical blow, jeopardizing their safety and significantly hindering their ability to conduct meaningful research.

Rage warred with frustration within her. She had meticulously planned this expedition, tirelessly navigated bureaucratic hurdles, and even endured the petty slights and manipulations of those who sought to see her fail. And now, after all the hard work, after the unexpected luck, this.

Penya glanced at Naruto, who was now engaged in an animated conversation with his own clones, both gesturing enthusiastically at the snow truck's engine compartment. Their innocent enthusiasm was a stark contrast to the cold calculation evident in the official letter.

She crumpled the letter in her fist, the paper making a soft crackling sound. She wouldn't let this stop them. They would adapt, they would overcome. They had come too far to be derailed by bureaucratic machinations.

Taking a deep breath, Penya addressed the small group of remaining Silvermane Guards and workers. Her voice, though calm, held a steel edge. "Alright, everyone. Final checks. We leave in an hour. Despite some… adjustments, we still have a job to do. And we will do it well."

Her gaze swept over the small team, settling for a moment on Naruto, whose clones were now cheerfully disappearing in puffs of smoke, leaving him with a tired but satisfied grin. He had unwittingly cleared the path for their early departure, but now they faced a new, more insidious obstacle.

Penya knew this expedition would be far more challenging than anticipated. But as she looked out at the vast, snow-covered landscape that lay ahead, a flicker of determination ignited in her eyes. They might be shorthanded, but they had something their adversaries lacked: a relentless spirit, a touch of unexpected magic, and a leader who refused to be defeated. The Belobog Scientific Expeditionary Team, though smaller than planned, was ready to face whatever lay beyond the city walls. They had to be. The secrets of the Frostweave Foothills awaited, and Penya Sergeyevna would see them uncovered, one way or another.

"Penya, anything I can help with?" He didn't want her to stress out again, worried she her stomach might churned again.

"Naruto?" Penya sighs and understand the current circumstance might be annoying, he was still here. She was reluctant to use him like this but it was inevitable. She could also see he needed to rest too, "No, you've done enough, Naruto. Rest up before we head out."

"You sure?" Naruto lean into the letter she was given but Penya took a few steps away from him, "Yes, I'm sure." She want him to rest and anything else could be handle by the rest.

"Okay, but I'm available if you need any help." He replied back.

Rest. The word felt foreign on his tongue, yet the bone-deep weariness was undeniable. He wandered towards the convoy of armored trucks, their canvas covers flapping gently in the breeze. One, thankfully empty of supplies, seemed ideal for a moment of respite. He clambered in, the rough canvas smelling faintly of oil and something metallic.

Naruto, his chakra reserves humming comfortably after his shadow clone exertions, was told he could rest until departure.

From the small window, he watched Penya, still on her comm, her voice tight with frustration as she argued with someone on the other end about the abysmal staffing levels.

He watched her, a question forming in his mind. Why was she so worried? He could easily create enough clones to handle any task the missing personnel were supposed to fulfill. Lifting heavy equipment, setting up camp, even rudimentary security – his clones were more than capable. But something held him back. This was Penya's expedition, her responsibility. He was here as… well, he wasn't entirely sure what his official role was apart from being under probation, beyond a favor for a contact and a chance to see a new part of the world.

A wave of tiredness washed over him. He leaned back against the surprisingly comfortable padding of the seat. His thoughts shifted to things he wanted to recall or things he will face along way while staring at the roof of the trucks back interior.

Suddenly, two soft hands covered his eyes, and a familiar voice, laced with playful mischief, whispered, "Guess who?"

"…" Naruto paused, a lump forming in his throat. That voice. The gentle pressure of those hands. The faint, clean scent of antiseptic and something else… something uniquely hers from the clinic in the depths of the underworld.

A wave of emotion crashed over him, so potent it nearly stole his breath. He hadn't dared to hope. He'd unexpected left the Underworld with a promise to return to himself, a promise he feared he couldn't keep, not with the uncertainty of Belobog's intentions. The higher-ups or rather the Silvermane guards, they'd assured him the deal was struck, the people of the Underworld would be safe if he didn't make reckless actions. But doubt, a gnawing, persistent fear, had festered within him. What if they'd lied? What if they'd seen the vulnerable populace as leverage? What if they'd hurt…her?

His voice, when it finally came, was a soft, almost reverent whisper. "Natasha."

The hands dropped away, and he turned to see her, standing in the dim light of the truck's interior. Natasha. Here. A wave of overwhelming relief crashed over him, so intense it brought tears to his eyes. Bathed in the diffused light filtering through the canvas, her dark purple eyes, the color of rich earth, were wide with a mixture of relief and something akin to wonder. She was real. Not a memory, not a figment of his weary imagination..

"I-I…" The last time he'd seen her, he was collapsed on her lap, utterly drained after pushing his body beyond its limits to save the trapped miners. He hadn't dared venture back down, terrified of what retribution the authorities might have enacted.

"Oh, Naruto." Natasha saw the tears streaming down his face, uncharacteristic for the usually boisterous ninja. She pulled a small, slightly crumpled handkerchief from her pocket and gently dabbed at his wet cheeks. He just grinned at her, a wide, unrestrained smile that spoke volumes of his relief. She was safe. That was all that mattered.

Naruto, had to hide his worries, his longing to see them again since he will eventually do so. Never realizing Natasha would be here, he was over joy. Someone who always had his back and someone who listens despite his annoying banters.

"I… I was so worried," he choked out, the words thick with emotion. "I couldn't come back down. I was afraid… afraid they might have…" He couldn't finish the sentence, the thought too painful to articulate.

Natasha understood. She had seen the distrust in his eyes when he spoke of the Belobog Administration. She had witnessed the burden he carried, the weight of responsibility he placed on his young shoulders.

Natasha smiled back, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Thank you, Naruto," she said softly, her voice thick with emotion. "Thank you for everything you did. You saved our lives."

A wave of warmth, deeper than his fatigue, washed over Naruto. He'd always craved acknowledgment, not for glory, but for the quiet satisfaction of knowing he'd made a difference. Hearing it from Natasha, a woman he deeply respected, felt particularly profound. He started to protest, eager to downplay his actions, but Natasha cut him off, a small, knowing smile gracing her lips.

She pulled out a small glass vial, the liquid inside shimmering with a pale green hue. It emanated a sharp, refreshing mint smell that cut through the stale air. "This," she explained, her voice low and gentle, "is a mild relaxant. Just a single drop is enough. I know you're stamina is beyond average, Naruto. But you need to rest."

Naruto, ever trusting of Natasha's medical expertise and her unwavering support, nodded without hesitation. He respected her intelligence and her dedication, knew she wouldn't offer him anything harmful. He trusted her with his life, as he had many times during the war. He opened his mouth and allowed her to carefully administer a single drop onto his tongue. The taste was cool and invigorating, a stark contrast to the gritty taste of battle he'd grown accustomed to.

He hadn't realized but his mentality was not looking too good, she realize this as he tear up upon seeing her.

When he came to this world he'd simply been "Nameless," the strong, wanderer. No past, nothing but a torn up attire and his unusual traits.

Then, the floodgates opened. It was a sudden, brutal downpour of memories – the screech of metal and the roar of a tailed beast, the faces of his comrades, the burning agony of a final, desperate jutsu. He remembered Konoha, the Ichiraku ramen, the Hokage Mountain, the weight of responsibility, the joy of victory, the sting of betrayal, the love of his family and friends. He remembered Naruto Uzumaki. And with that remembrance came the chilling certainty: he was dead.

He'd given everything. He'd thrown himself into the path of destruction, channeling every ounce of chakra, every fiber of his being, to deflect the impossible. He'd saved them. But instead of oblivion, there was… this.

He'd woken up in this strange world, weak and disoriented, his chakra reserves a mere trickle compared to the ocean he once commanded. It had been a strange blessing, this enforced dormancy. He'd learned to live again, in a way, without the crushing weight of expectation, without the constant threat looming over his shoulder. But now, with the memories and powers slowly coming back, the joy of this brief respite was tainted by a gnawing unease.

What now? He was Naruto Uzumaki, a legend in his own world, reduced to a stranger in another. His power was still immense, even after the brutal transition. He could feel it coiled beneath his skin, eager to unleash. A simple flex of his will, a surge of chakra, and he could likely level this peaceful village. He'd seen glimpses of the local powers – knights in shining armor, few normal men and women wielding power, energies – and while formidable, none possessed the sheer, raw, destructive potential he held.

But the cost. That was what haunted him. His fights in his own world, even the victories, often left him on the brink. He pushed himself past the limits of human endurance, relying on Kurama's chakra and his own stubborn vitality. Here, without Kurama assistance, without the familiar support system, overexertion could be catastrophic. He could win, yes, but at what price to himself? And more importantly, at what price to the kind people who had offered him shelter?

They were simple folk, their lives woven with the rhythms of the land. He'd seen the way they looked at him sometimes, a mixture of gratitude and a flicker of something else – apprehension? He was different. Even without consciously using his chakra, there was an intensity about him, a latent power that they instinctively sensed. If he were to unleash his full strength, would they fear him? Would they see him as a monster? Would his presence bring unwanted attention, dangerous enemies drawn to his unique power?

These were battles he couldn't win with a Rasengan. He could punch and kick and chakra-blast his way through any physical threat, but the invisible walls of fear, the delicate threads of trust – those were far more fragile. He found himself holding back, even in simple tasks, afraid of accidentally revealing too much, of shattering the fragile peace he'd found.

He'd been staring out at the foggy snow cloud filled sky for days, the movements of such mirroring the turmoil in his murky heart. He hadn't slept properly ever since his past came back, the memories replaying like a broken record, the what-ifs and the whys echoing in his mind. He felt a gentle hand on his shoulder.

Doctor Natasha. She was a saint, a young woman with kind eyes and a quiet wisdom that seemed to see through the strongest of facades. She and his brother had been the first to tend to him when he'd arrived, a broken, amnesiac stranger. She'd seen him at his weakest, and now, she saw something else.

"You're troubled," she said softly, her voice a soothing balm.

He simply remained silent, unable to articulate the tangled mess of thoughts and anxieties that plagued him.

Natasha didn't press. She had a way of understanding without demanding explanation. Instead, she did something unexpected. She sat beside him, the cool air brushing against their skin. Then, without a word, she rested his head on her lap.

He blinked, surprised. Despite his appearance he was a grown man, a seasoned warrior, a Kage-level shinobi for crying out loud. But looking into her gentle, knowing eyes, something within him cracked. The weight of two lifetimes, the burden of impossible choices, the loneliness of being utterly adrift – it all threatened to overwhelm him.

He hesitated for a moment, a lifetime of self-reliance warring with a desperate need for comfort. Then, slowly, carefully, he relax his head and comfortable rested on her lap.

The soft fabric of her skirt was surprisingly comforting against his brow. Her hand gently stroked his hair, a simple, rhythmic motion that somehow managed to quiet the storm raging within him. He closed his eyes, the scent of herbs and lavender emanating from her clothes strangely familiar and calming.

She didn't ask questions. She didn't offer platitudes. She simply offered a haven, a moment of respite from the relentless onslaught of his own mind. In the quiet darkness, with the gentle rhythm of her hand and the unwavering kindness in her presence, Naruto Uzumaki, the hero who had saved his world, found himself unexpectedly soothed by the simple, selfless act of a village healer in a world he didn't yet understand. He still didn't know what he was supposed to do, but for the first time since his memories had returned, a sliver of peace settled within him. He wasn't alone, not entirely. And sometimes, that was enough to keep going, even when the path ahead remained shrouded in doubt.

He tried to voice his thanks, a jumble of apologies for needing to rest and questions about Natasha's well-being, but she gently hushed him, placing a soft finger on his lips. The light touch sent a strange, calming sensation through him. He felt his eyelids grow heavy, the world around him softening at the edges.

He closed his eyes, the scent of her hair filling his senses, the gentle rhythm of her hand a comforting weight on his head. The medicine had taken effect and for the first time in a long time, Naruto felt a sense of profound peace settle over him. He was tired, yes, but more than that, he was relieved. And in the quiet sanctuary of the transport truck, with Natasha watching over him, he finally allowed himself to drift into a deep, dreamless sleep.

…

The rumble and grind of the snow truck was a constant, almost comforting, white noise that vibrated through Natasha's bones. Sunlight, sharp and unforgiving against the endless white landscape, filtered weakly through the grimy windows. In her lap, Naruto stirred slightly, a soft sigh escaping his lips. His golden hair, usually a vibrant explosion, was now a sun-kissed mess against the dark fabric of her trousers. He looked younger like this, the usual fierce lines around his eyes smoothed out in sleep.

Natasha resumed her gentle stroking of his hair, her fingers tracing the familiar cowlicks. She had been humming a quiet, almost melancholic tune, a lullaby her grandmother used to sing, but the words faded as she found herself simply enjoying the stillness. It was an odd sight, she knew. The whirlwind that was Naruto, currently out cold and completely reliant on her. This was a side of him few saw, and she felt a strange protectiveness bloom in her chest.

Behind them, she could feel the curious gazes of the medical trainees. They'd arrived with a mix of awe and trepidation regarding Naruto. Whispers of his legendary strength and stubbornness preceded him, while other rumors, darker and less flattering, had also circulated. His probation officer, Officer Penya, had been tight-lipped, offering only cryptic pronouncements that suggested a complex history which the young doctor glad she did. Natasha understood their confusion. She herself was still piecing together the enigma that was Naruto Uzumaki.

One of the trainees, a young woman with wide, inquisitive eyes, finally mustered the courage to approach. "Dr. Natasha," she began hesitantly, "We were just wondering… your relationship with Mr. Uzumaki?"

Natasha met her gaze with a soft smile, her fingers still playing with Naruto's hair. "That, my dear," she said, her voice a low murmur, "Is a secret." She brought a finger to her lips, her eyes twinkling with amusement. The trainee blushed and retreated, exchanging confused glances with her colleagues.

Officer Penya, a pragmatic woman with a perpetual air of weariness etched onto her face, wasn't so easily dissuaded. She squeezed past the rows of equipment and leaned over the seat, her gaze fixed on the sleeping Naruto. She owed him, a debt he'd brushed off with characteristic nonchalance, but the weight of it lingered. He'd practically carried this expedition on his shoulders, his stamina and unwavering optimism proving invaluable in the harsh environment.

"Still out cold, huh?" Penya muttered, more to herself than to Natasha. She nudged Naruto's cheek with a gloved finger. His features twitched slightly, but his eyes remained closed. Penya poked him again, a little harder this time. Nothing. A small, almost imperceptible smile played on her lips. She liked this. This quiet, peaceful Naruto was a far cry from the whirlwind of chaotic energy she usually dealt with. "I'm glad you are normal in a way."

A genuine giggle almost escaped her. She quickly clamped a hand over her mouth, her eyes darting around to see if anyone had noticed. The trainees were still whispering amongst themselves, their curiosity piqued further by her reaction. Natasha simply watched, a knowing smile gracing her lips.

The truth was, even she wasn't entirely sure what her relationship with Naruto was. He was a force of nature, an unstoppable current of energy and determination. Yet, in unguarded moments like these, a vulnerability peeked through, a trust that was both humbling and deeply touching. She didn't bother to wake him anyway. No one hadn't questioned it, she hadn't offered to move him. It just… was.

The expedition continued its steady progress, the vast whiteness stretching endlessly before them. The lack of manpower was a concern, but Penya was right. Naruto deserved this rest. He'd pushed himself to his absolute limit, his unwavering spirit a beacon in the bleak landscape.

Natasha looked down at the sleeping figure in her lap. The soft sound of his breathing filled the small space, a counterpoint to the rhythmic rumble of the truck. Whatever their relationship was, she knew one thing for sure. She would protect this quiet moment, this rare glimpse into the heart of a hero, with everything she had. The secrets, for now, would remain just that. And as the snow truck continued its journey, swallowed by the immensity of the frozen wilderness, Natasha continued to watch over the sleeping Naruto, a silent guardian in a world of white.

"!?" Then, without warning, the world outside the truck seemed to crackle. A vibrant crimson beam, impossibly bright, sliced through the air, aimed directly at Natasha. Time seemed to slow. A collective gasp rippled through the truck. Before anyone could consciously react, a blur of motion erupted from beside her. Naruto's hand, previously limp in sleep, shot up with the speed of a striking viper. His fingers clamped around the incoming energy, the vibrant crimson flaring against his skin like a captured lightning bolt.

Naruto's hand fell back onto Natasha's leg, limp. His brow furrowed slightly, a ripple of discomfort passing across his face. The beam dissipated, the energy seemingly absorbed. His hand, still clenched, slowly dropped back to his side. His eyes remained closed. He was still asleep.

The silence that followed was thick with disbelief. Everyone stared at the sleeping form of the young man, their minds struggling to process what they had just witnessed. This wasn't a flinch. This was a deliberate, powerful act of defense, performed in his sleep.

Officer Penya, a veteran with experience that has many stories of countless battles against the Fragmentum, was the first to break the trance. She called out orders, her voice a gravelly rasp that cut through the lingering shock. "Fragmentum attack! Defense positions! Now!"

There number low but they can handle the situation as apart from the few new faces, no one was a rookie in battle.

The truck thick curtains swung open, revealing the harsh reality of their world. Twisted, bone-like structures clawed at the sky, and the air vibrated with a low, guttural hum that could only belong to the Fragmentum. These weren't mere monsters; they were the embodiment of chaos, creatures born from the rifts that scarred their world, their existence a constant threat to humanity.

The few Silvermane guards, despite the surprise of the attack and the bizarre display of their sleeping companion, snapped into action with practiced efficiency. They were warriors, forged in the crucible of constant conflict. Years of fighting the Fragmentum had ingrained in them a primal understanding of survival. Young and old, medic and social worker – anyone capable of holding a weapon or providing support rushed out, their faces grim with determination. This was their life. This was their fight.

Natasha's heart pounded in her chest. She gently maneuvered Naruto's head, placing it on a makeshift pillow of bundled cloaks. A fierce wave of protectiveness washed over her. He had shielded her, unconsciously, instinctively. This time, she would protect him. "Don't worry, we'll be fine."

"And this time," she whispered to the sleeping boy, her voice barely audible. The weight of past failures, of those she hadn't been able to save, pressed down on her. This time felt different. This time, the stakes felt higher. Maybe it was his unwavering optimism, even in the face of despair, maybe it was the echo of a lost innocence she saw reflected in his youthful face. Whatever it was, she couldn't bear the thought of him alone facing the Fragmentum, not yet. "I'll protect you."

Her gaze drifted to the corner where her scavenged weapons lay. Among them, the imposing form of a repurposed grenade launcher stood out. It was a beast, heavy and unwieldy, requiring a different kind of finesse than the usual pistols and knives. She'd spent the last few weeks learning its brutal language, the way it recoiled, the arc of its projectiles, the satisfying thud of its explosive delivery. It was overkill for most situations, but against the larger, more resilient Fragmentum, it was a necessary evil.

Her fingers tightened on the grip, the cold metal a familiar comfort against her skin.

Taking one last look at the sleeping Naruto, a mixture of awe and gratitude swirling within her, she followed the others. The roar of weapons firing already echoed outside, a symphony of defiance against the encroaching darkness. She knew the risks, the terrifying power of the Fragmentum. But she also knew the resilience of her people, the unwavering spirit that kept them fighting against impossible odds.

Outside, the battle raged. The Fragmentum, grotesque parodies of life, scrabbled and shrieked, their forms shifting and warping in unsettling ways. Officer Penya led the charge, her short blade and revolver a whirling dervish of steel and fury. The Silvermane guards fought with a ferocity born of necessity, their laser rifles spitting bolts of energy, their grenades erupting in bursts of blinding light.

Natasha found her position behind a makeshift barricade of overturned supplies and rubbles. She took a deep breath, the cold air filling her lungs. There was no hesitation in her movements as she stepped out into the ravaged landscape. The grenade launcher felt like an extension of her, a weapon she understood, a weapon she could rely on.

The first Fragmentum she saw was a hulking monstrosity, its limbs contorted, its body a patchwork of broken metal and pulsating crystal. It lumbered towards the shelter, its eyeless sockets seemingly sensing the warmth of life within. Natasha didn't hesitate. She braced herself, her stance firm, her eyes narrowed with focus.

"Take this!" The launcher roared to life, the sound echoing through the desolate cityscape. The projectile streaked through the air, a brief flash of light against the gloom, and slammed into the Fragmentum's chest. The explosion was deafening, a visceral burst of energy that tore through the creature, sending fragments of its unnatural form flying.

Natasha didn't wait to admire her handiwork. She knew there would be more. The Fragmentum were drawn to any sign of life, their corrupted senses attuned to even the faintest flicker of warmth or movement. She moved with a deadly grace, using the ruined buildings as cover, her senses on high alert.

She reloaded quickly, her movements precise and efficient. The adrenaline coursed through her veins, sharpening her senses, pushing back the fear. This was the reality they lived in, a constant struggle for survival. And tonight, they would fight to live. "Don't get careless." She reminded herself.

Back in the relative safety of the truck, Naruto remained undisturbed. The sounds of battle muffled by the thick metal walls, the tremors of explosions barely registering. He slept on, oblivious to the chaos he had momentarily interrupted, a silent enigma in a world consumed by conflict. He was right now a protected secret, a fragile hope hidden amidst the relentless fury. And somewhere in his unconscious mind, perhaps, lingered the echo of the crimson energy he had so familiarity with, a testament to a power he had long used, a power that belong to his friend, or what was left of it.

Naruto sat cross-legged on the damp, familiar ground of his mindscape. He blinked, the gritty texture of memory clinging to his eyelids. One moment he was drifting in the sweet, comforting darkness, the next he was here, back in the place he thought was forever lost. It was a disorienting shift. He vividly remembered lying down, Natasha's soft lap a pillow beneath his head, the faint scent of antiseptic and her comforting warmth a soothing presence. But that was a lifetime ago, or was it?

Before him loomed the colossal, crimson cage. Its bars, thick as tree trunks, were cold and damp, the familiar oppressive feeling returning full force. The seal, once a terrifying array of intricate glyphs, was now a simple, unlatched lock. It was a stark contrast to the intricate security he remembered. And yet, despite the open door, the massive form of Kurama, the Nine-tailed Fox, lay curled up in a deep slumber within. His fur, a raging inferno of crimson in his waking hours, was now muted, a heap of smoldering embers.

Panic flared in Naruto's chest. He leaped to his feet, his voice raw as he shouted, "Hey! Kurama! Wake up!"

"You stupid fox! Stop sleeping on the job!" He poured chakra into his voice, trying to rouse the beast with the sheer force of his will. Nothing. Not a twitch of an ear, not a flicker of those crimson eyes that usually held so much sardonic amusement.

Naruto had been frantic at first. He'd yelled, pounded on the cage, even tried to pull at Kurama's colossal tails, desperate to rouse his partner. But the fox remained stubbornly unresponsive, an immovable mountain of red fur. The frustration had given way to a strange sense of resignation, and now, a hollow ache settled within his chest. He was happy, no, overjoyed, that Kurama was still there. It was like finding a missing piece of himself he didn't even know he was missing. Yet, a deep sadness permeated that joy, a melancholy he couldn't quite place.

So, he sat. He sat with the quiet hum of the ever changing landscape of his mind, the low thrumming of Kurama's deep breaths filling the space. The joy of being here overshadowed by a growing dread. Kurama washere. Inside him. That was… amazing. After everything that had happened, after… But the silence was deafening. It was a silence that spoke volumes, a silence that felt heavier than any of Kurama's usual grumbles.

He slid down, his back against the cage, and stared at the sleeping form of his tenant. Years of their bond had taught him Kurama's every subtle shift, every twitch of a whisker, every low growl. This was different. This was… lifeless.

But he had to do something, and he talked.

"Hey, Kurama," he began, his voice echoing slightly in the vast space. "It's me, Naruto. You probably can't hear me, but... well, I just needed to say it, I guess."

He shifted uncomfortably, gathering his thoughts. "So, uh, you're probably wondering what's going on, right? I've been… gone, for a while. Like,reallygone. I, uh, I died. Again." He chuckled humorlessly, "You know, like we haven't done that enough," He paused, the echo of his past life ringing in his ears. He remembered everything now. The war, the loss, the victory, the peace. The pain was still real, still raw on some level.

He sighed, the air growing heavy. "I woke up… somewhere else. A completely different world. It's called... Belobog, It's… different. Like, super advanced, but also kinda old-fashioned. And cold. Really cold." He wasn't sure how to explain the strange city, the frozen landscape, the technological marvels. "It's… weird. I'm under probation there, yeah you heard that right, probation. And it's totally not my fault!" His voice rose in indignation. He tried to explained to a sleeping fox that he was being framed and he could prove that if he wasn't in probation. He snorted, before continuing on.

"But, I've met some amazing people, Kurama. There's this crazy doctor named Vache, he's brilliant! He's just... unconventional. He's experimenting with all sorts of weird stuff, things even I can't comprehend, and he's got this way of talking that makes you want to both follow him and run for the hills." He grinned, picturing his dubious face, his mind hatching plans.

He continued, his enthusiasm bubbling over. "Then there's Serval, this cool girl, she's super good-hearted and an even better prankster. She wants to follow her own path... even if her family try to stop her." He chuckled, remembering Serval painting the Hokage monument with glowing paint, only to then use a complicated series of levitation ninjutsu to make it look like the faces were spinning. "She's got this fire in her eyes, Kurama, like she's ready to take on the world. We've been… comparing notes on mischief lately."

"Oh, and there's Penya!" He rambled on about a indigo haired lady that was just as serious as Sasuke as he remember when he was a kid. He found her serious, funny and she was an absolute best boss… he meant probation officer he could have since he learn there were a lot of jerks in the administration. He chuckled, reminiscing about a situation where he got too friendly in his surroundings that it made her question him.

"And... and there was Natasha. She… really kind. She's the one who helped me when..." he trailed off, feeling a phantom ache in his chest, remembering the moment he last saw her. Remembering the warmth of her touch, the calm in her eyes, the comfort he found in her presence. He was glad she was safe and sound, "She's…she's really nice. She even let me rest my head on her lap."

His voice dropped to a whisper, the weight of unspoken emotions pressing in on him. "I wish you could meet them, Kurama. I wish you could have seen it all. Well, I guess you were. You were always here." He laughed again, but it didn't sound like it contained any joy. "It's just… it's not the same. I miss arguing with you, you big grumpy fox. I miss our little chats, the way you would give me your snarky comments. I even miss you calling me an idiot."

He looked at the still form of his companion. The red fur rose and fell with each breath, but there was no sign of recognition, no flash of crimson eyes. A deeper sadness settled upon Naruto, the earlier joy fading away, leaving behind a hollow ache.

He wrapped his arms around his knees, burying his face in them. "I... I don't understand. Why am I here? Why am I even still alive? I thought I was finally… gone. And yet… here I am, somehow still with you… and I was here when I came to." A single tear slipped down his cheek, tracing a lonely path through the grime. He was back in his mindscape, the place that was both home and prison, with his friend, his prison and his partner. And he was truly, utterly alone. "Just… wake up already."

The silence of the mindscape closed in around him, broken only by the rhythmic breathing of the sleeping fox and the soft sounds of Naruto's quiet sorrow. He sat there, lost in the strange limbo between two worlds, wondering what purpose this new life held, and if he would ever truly find his way again.

The rough canvas of the truck's interior felt jarring against Naruto's cheek as he blinked awake. Natasha's familiar warmth was gone, the space beside him on the makeshift bed of blankets and cushions, now chillingly empty. A knot of unease tightened in his stomach. He'd fallen asleep on her lap, the gentle rhythm of the engine lulling him into a deeper slumber than he'd intended.

He scrambled out of the truck, his movement stiff from prolonged sleep. The truck's covering was a meagre attempt to shield the occupants from the biting wind. He clambered out, his boots crunching on the frozen earth. The landscape that greeted him was a stark contrast to the bustling city he had left behind: an endless expanse of grey, cracked earth, punctuated by jagged rocks and dusted with a thin layer of frost. Not a single sprig of green dared to break the monotony. The sheer desolation was a testament to the brutal environment beyond Belobog's protective walls.

The expedition team was clearly setting up camp in a small clearing surrounded by thick, snow-dusted trees. But it wasn't the change in scenery that made his heart clench; it was the sight of his companions.

Panic clenched at his throat. He had slept far too long.

Bandages peeked out from beneath the sleeves of the team members' thick parkas, some sporting makeshift splints on their arms and legs. The air was heavy with exhaustion; their movements, usually sharp and efficient, were now sluggish and strained. His eyes scanned the scene, his breath catching in his throat when he spotted Officer Penya, her small frame usually vibrant and energetic, now visibly weary with bandages wrapped around her arm. Then he saw Natasha, her face pale beneath the morning light, a bandage wrapped around her forehead, and the sight made his blood boil.

Guilt, thick and suffocating, coiled around him. He should have been awake, should have been helping. He'd let them down. He rushed towards them, his voice tight with worry.

"What happened?" he asked, his gaze flitting from Natasha to Penya. "Why are you both hurt? What happened to everyone?"

Natasha managed a weak smile, her voice soft. "Naruto, you're awake. You should have rested more." Her voice was gentle, but there was an underlying weariness that didn't escape him.

"You're hurt!" He pointed to the bandages on her arm. "What happened? Why didn't you wake me?"

Penya tried to brush it off, "Just a small scuffle, nothing to worry about. We're already at the designated base point, after all. Just need to finish up with making our base of operation."

They were clearly lying to him, and he understands their intention but this wasn't right to him. He didn't have his strength to just sit back.

Naruto's fist clenched. Their words didn't ease his guilt, they fueled it. They were sacrificing themselves, pushing themselves to their limit to protect him, to compensate for his own weakness. He was supposed to be strong enough to protect them, not the other way around.

"No!" he roared, his voice cracking with frustration and self-directed anger. "This is... I could've prevented all of this!"

A searing streak of crimson energy ripped through the air outside, shattering the uneasy quiet. Instinct, honed by years of battle, took over. His body moved before his brain fully processed the threat. The energy beam, a concentrated blast of Fragmentum corruption, was heading straight for them.

Without hesitation, Naruto surged forward, a primal roar escaping his lips. He didn't have time for hand signs, didn't have time to summon a proper defense. He just reacted. His right fist shot out, intercepting the beam inches from hitting the girls.

Agony flared up his arm. The burning sensation was intense, the corrupted energy trying to burrow into his flesh. He gritted his teeth, his signature whisker marks deepening against his tan skin. He could feel his cells working furiously, the dense chakra flowing through his system already knitting the burnt flesh back together, but the initial pain was a shock.

"Multi-Shadow clone Jutsu!"

With a surge of chakra, a dozen identical copies of Naruto popped into existence around him. Their movements were fluid and practiced, a testament to years of relentless training. Four of the clones, their chakra signatures amplified, grabbed Naruto, two by the arms, two by the legs.

"LAUNCH!" one of the clones yelled, his voice echoing the urgency Naruto felt.

In a coordinated burst of enhanced strength, the clones hurled Naruto upwards. He soared through the air, a yellow blur against the grey Belobog sky. He spotted the attacker perched precariously on a steep, snow-covered wall overlooking their base of operation. It was a grotesque amalgamation of crystal and darkness, its form shifting and pulsating with malevolent energy. Another beam of crimson energy was charging in its maw.

Time seemed to slow. Naruto's eyes locked onto the Fragmentum monster. He channeled his chakra, the familiar swirling energy gathering in his right palm. The air around his hand vibrated, the raw power crackling.

He twisted in mid-air, using the momentum of his launch to his advantage. His battle cry ripped through the wind, fueled by guilt, anger, and a fierce determination to protect those he had failed.

"RASENGAN!"

The spiraling sphere of chakra, a miniature tornado of pure energy, slammed into the Fragmentum monster's chest. The impact was deafening, a violent eruption of light and force. The corrupted creature shrieked, a sound that grated on the very soul, before its crystalline structure shattered, disintegrating into harmless motes of black dust.

Naruto landed heavily on the snowy ledge, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He felt the stares of the remaining expedition members who had witnessed his explosive arrival.

"Naruto!?" Natasha cried, reaching out to him, her voice filled with panic.

But Naruto pushed her hand away, his blue eyes burning with an intensity she hadn't seen before. He wiped at the blood with the back of his hand, a strange, manic grin spreading across his face.

"I'm done… I'm done letting anyone get hurt because of me! I promise, I won't let it happen again!" he declared, his voice resolute, a touch of the wild fox seeping in.

And then, with a blur of motion and a puff of smoke, hundreds of Narutos materialized around him. The transformation was instantaneous, the sudden influx of bodies creating a chaotic whirlwind in the small clearing.

"Alright team!" he shouted, his voice amplified by the sheer number of his clones. "We're building a base! Remember what we discussed earlier? We're at the fixed point! Some of you gather timber! Others, get stones and rocks from ruins or any wreckage. Focus on speed and stability, we won't be moving again without a proper foundation!"

The clones scattered, moving with incredible speed and efficiency. The air vibrated with the rhythmic thud of axes felling trees, the clatter of stone being moved, and the combined energy of a hundred determined workers. In mere minutes, an army of Narutos were transforming the clearing into a hive of activity, their determination a stark contrast to the exhausted state of the expedition team just moments before.

Natasha stared, once again bewildered, at the whirlwind of blurs. It was like a whirlwind of pure, unbridled energy had descended upon them. Penya stood next to her, her expression a mix of awe and concern. She had always known Naruto was different, that he possessed a power that defied logic. But they had never seen him unleash it with such raw, visceral intensity.

As the dust settled, and the beginnings of a solid base started to take shape, Natasha understood. Naruto wasn't just angry at himself; he was angry at the world for trying to hurt the people he cared about. And that anger, channelled through his unique abilities, was a force to be reckoned with.

He stood there with blood still trickling down his forehead, watched his clones work. He felt a surge of purpose, a fierce protectiveness for these people who had become his family. He wouldn't rest until he had built a safe haven for them, a place where they could recover and prepare for the challenges to come.

And done...

Age:

Naruto: ?

Serval: 14

Gephart: 12

Natasha: 19

Penya: 23 (No, she will not be interested in Naruto)

Abilities

Rasengan

Multi-Shadow clones

Fire manipulation and ignition

Transformation technique (How he hid his fox features.)

Chakra mode

Bye!