As dawn's first light pierced through the dense canopy of Worth Woodsea, the colossal structure of Nirvana loomed ominously, its limited mobility causing tremors with each movement. Inside, the remaining members of the Allied Guilds—Natsu, Happy, Erza, Gray, Lucy, Ichiya, the Trimens, Wendy, and Carla—raced against time, strategizing fervently to halt its advance.

Outside, the aftermath of a fierce battle was evident. Zero lay embedded in a massive crater against a wall—the result of Naruto's devastating Rasen Fūin Gan. The technique, a testament to his mastery over chakra and ethernano, had severed Zero's connection to magic entirely. The once-malevolent aura that surrounded him had dissipated, leaving behind only a man—fragmented, yet inching toward wholeness.

Naruto exhaled, his breath steady despite the exhaustion creeping into his limbs. His golden, toad-like eyes remained sharp, scanning Zero's unconscious form with eerie precision—Sage Mode still coursing through him, sustaining itself without pause. The natural energy of this world flowed into him effortlessly, as if Worth Woodsea itself recognized him as part of its fabric.

Rasen Fūin Gan—a technique born from necessity, forged in the aftermath of Naruto's release from the Stygian Lacrima. His body, battered and worn from the overconsumption of Ethernano, had forced him to rethink how he wielded power in this new world. The inspiration struck him during his brief use of Faux Baryon Mode that got him out of the stygian lacrima, where he glimpsed both its overwhelming potential and its perilous consequences.

At the heart of this new Rasengan variant was regulation—control over the relentless influx of Ethernano that threatened to cripple him. A new sealing mark, a swirling singular dot etched onto both of his palms, acted as a regulator, constantly balancing the absorption and release of Ethernano. With this, he could avoid the burden of oversaturation while still harnessing the immense energy of this world.

But something else had begun to stir within him.

Oddly enough, Naruto was starting to develop insane utilities reminiscent of the Ōtsutsuki Clan. Faux Baryon Mode, while incomplete, had unintentionally awakened something far beyond raw power—a new type of dōjutsu, the couple of times he had used it.

It was something he did not anticipated when he first came to the idea of Faux Baryon Mode.

Naruto had expected something familiar—an explosive surge of power, a chakra cloak engulfing his body like a blazing inferno, just as it had in his original Baryon Mode. Yet, when he first tapped into Faux Baryon Mode, no such transformation occurred. Instead of raw, destructive energy wrapping around him, what he gained was something far more intricate—far more profound.

The Eyes of Blue Sky.

Aokugan.

It wasn't just sight. It was understanding. When he looked at something, he didn't just see it—he perceived it down to its most fundamental, most microscopic detail. The flow of energy, the composition of matter, the delicate threads binding existence together—it all unraveled before him in perfect clarity.

Whether this power was a side effect of his modified tetragram seal or something deeper, Naruto didn't know. But one thing was certain.

He was changing. And once his modified tetragram seal reached its final phase—absolute self-sustenance—he will acquire the Faux Baryon Mode— the Aokugan. No longer bound by limitations. He would be able to craft miracles with a mere sleight of hand, just as effortlessly as he had created Rasen Fūin Gan in a moment of inspiration.

Naruto stepped toward the unconscious figure, his expression a mix of resolve and quiet contemplation.

"I'm not a cruel person, you know..." he murmured, his golden toad-like eyes gazing down at Zero. "Your magic will return once the seal's conditions are met."

The seal woven into Rasen Fūin Gan functioned similarly to Naruto's modified tetragram seal, though tailored for this world. Unlike other wizards, Zero wouldn't gain any draining capabilities from it. Instead, his magic would be continuously siphoned away—an ironic punishment. The more he tried to use it, the faster he'd be drained. And the only way to break the seal was through change.

Regaining his humanity. Acknowledging his sins. A shift in mindset.

"Now that you're a blank slate once more, you'll see the world in a different light," Naruto continued. "You'll meet people just like you—arrogant, blind to anything but power. And you'll meet others willing to reach out a hand."

He let the words settle before delivering the final truth.

"It's up to you whether your magic returns. Find something more fulfilling than destruction—bonds."

He exhaled, the morning breeze carrying the weight of his words.

"When a person has something they want to protect, that's when they become truly strong."

Naruto's voice softened. "I hope you'll be a better person by then."

He turned, glancing at the sky, where the first traces of sunlight bled into the horizon. "After all… in true powerlessness, one's real character is revealed."

The sentiment echoed the teachings of Jiraiya, his late mentor. For a moment, Naruto could almost see him, standing there, offering those very lessons with that familiar, knowing smile.

A wry smirk tugged at Naruto's lips. "Damn… their stunt really did a number on me."

In the distance, a thunderous crash shattered the silence—Nirvana was finally crumbling. His comrades had done it.

Relief washed over him. The battle was over.

As the dust settled, the forest embraced the dawn, and with it came the quiet promise of renewal.

Chapter 10

As dusk's gentle light filtered through the dense canopy of Worth Woodsea, the remnants of the Allied Guilds made their way back to Cait Shelter. The battle against Oración Seis had been grueling, but their unity had prevailed. Among the returning warriors were Naruto, Wendy, Carla, Natsu, Happy, Erza, Gray, Lucy, Ichiya, and the Trimens of Blue Pegasus.

Roubaul stood at the entrance, his wise eyes reflecting both relief and gratitude as he welcomed them.

"You've all done us a great service—" he praised, his voice carrying the weight of wisdom. "Rest now—our home is yours for the night."

The weary group dispersed to find respite, but Naruto couldn't help but notice the subtle shift in Wendy and Erza. There was something in their expressions—something left unsaid. It was likely tied to their encounter with that enigmatic blue-haired man. Jellal.

Naruto didn't pry. Wendy had never spoken much about her past, and he never pushed her to.

Early on, Jellal and the unconscious leader of Oración Seis were taken into custody by the Council's 4th Custody Enforcement Unit, led by Lahar. He was accompanied by Lamia Scale's Jura Neekis, along with Lyon and Sherry, who escorted the remaining five members of Oración Seis.

Later that evening, as the soft glow of the campfire flickered under the starlit sky, Carla broke the silence.

"Naruto," the white feline called, her usually sharp voice holding an unusual softness. "There's something you should know about Wendy."

Naruto shifted his gaze from the fire to Carla, immediately catching the concern in her eyes. He listened as she spoke of Wendy's past—the "Jellal" who had cared for her, the same name that now carried such a dark weight.

Naruto listened carefully as Carla recounted Wendy's past. She spoke of Wendy's history with a man named Jellal, who had cared for her and eventually left her at Cait Shelter under Roubaul's guardianship.

"Wendy always spoke of Jellal as a kind, protective figure. But the man we encountered… he felt different," Carla admitted, frowning.

Naruto leaned back, thoughtful. "You think they're two different people?"

Carla hesitated before nodding. "It's possible. A part of me wants to believe that the Jellal Wendy remembers is real—that he wasn't the same man we met. But even so…" She sighed, her tail flicking with frustration. "We can't be sure."

Naruto hummed in thought, his mind piecing things together. Before he could respond, an old but firm voice called out.

"Naruto."

He turned, spotting Roubaul approaching with slow, deliberate steps.

"Old man! Still up?" Naruto waved casually, masking the unease he felt from the guild master's expression.

Roubaul stopped in front of them, his gaze solemn. "I need to speak with you both. It's about the guild."

Naruto's eyes narrowed. So, this is it.

He had known for a while now—Roubaul had told him the truth during his first week in Cait Shelter. But hearing it now, at this moment, felt heavier.

"I've already discussed this with the wizards of fairy tail, as they seemed to have been attached to Wendy."

"We're… moving to Fairy Tail?" Naruto's voice was steady, but there was a weight behind it. He glanced at Wendy's sleeping quarters, already dreading how she would take it.

Carla stiffened. "What's the meaning of this, Master?" she demanded, ears flattening.

Roubaul exhaled deeply. "It's time you both knew everything."

And so, he told them.

It was time for goodbyes.

As the first light of dawn crept into the room, Naruto gently shook Wendy awake. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his with a sleepy smile.

"Naruto? What's going on?" she asked, rubbing her eyes.

Carla perched beside her, her usual stern expression softened by concern. "Wendy, there's something important we need to discuss."

Sensing the gravity in their tones, Wendy sat up, her heart beginning to race. "What is it?"

Naruto took a deep breath, glancing at Carla before speaking. "It's about Cait Shelter... and Master Roubaul."

Confusion clouded Wendy's features. "What do you mean?"

Before they could continue, Roubaul entered the room, his presence commanding yet gentle. "Wendy, my dear, there's something I must tell you."

Wendy's eyes widened, a sense of dread settling in her stomach. "Master? What's happening?"

Roubaul motioned for her to sit, his expression somber. "Please, listen carefully."

As he began to speak, Roubaul revealed the truth about Cait Shelter. He explained that the guild, the members, and even he— himself were illusions, created to provide Wendy with a sense of belonging after she was left in his care. The weight of his words hung heavily in the air.

Tears welled up in Wendy's eyes, her voice trembling. "So... none of it was real?"

Roubaul's eyes softened with sorrow. "The feelings were real, Wendy. The love and care we have for you are genuine. But it's time for you to join a guild where you can have real companions, a real family."

Wendy's tears flowed freely as she attempted to cling to Roubaul, but her hands passed through his spectral form. The reality of the situation began to sink in, and she collapsed to her knees, weeping.

"Wendy," Erza and Natsu called out in unison, stepping forward to offer their support.

"Erza, Natsu..." Wendy sniffled, looking up at them through her tears.

Gray, Lucy, and Happy waved at her, their faces filled with concern and encouragement.

"Gray, Lucy, Happy..." Wendy's voice trembled.

Even the members of Blue Pegasus, including Ichiya and the Trimens, offered their own unique brand of support, hoping to uplift her spirits.

Roubaul smiled gently at Wendy. "You're not alone anymore, Wendy."

"Master..." Wendy's tears welled up even more, and she cried openly, feeling the profound loss but also the warmth of the newfound family around her.

Before Roubaul dissipated completely, the old man and Naruto had a silent conversation between old men.

"She's in your hands now Naruto."

Carla eyed the two's silent connection, then at long last Roubaul who finally got to leave it all behind.

Feeling some sort of a silent promise from the two Carla patted Naruto's right leg, and he leaned in to ruffle her head.

X784 - Fairy Tail

The lively atmosphere of the Fairy Tail guild hall was as raucous as ever, the chatter and laughter of its members filling every corner of the grand building. At the center of it all, atop the bar, Makarov stood proudly, puffing his chest as he gestured to the three newcomers standing before him.

"Listen up, you brats! Today, we welcome three new members into our family!" Makarov bellowed, his voice instantly silencing the guild as all eyes turned to the front.

Standing beside him, Wendy shifted nervously, her small hands fidgeting with the hem of her dress. Carla, ever composed, stood tall with a watchful gaze, making it clear she wouldn't tolerate any nonsense.

And then there was Naruto.

Despite the attention, the blonde stood relaxed, his arms crossed, an easy smirk playing on his lips. He had been through this before—the wary glances, the whispered conversations. His reputation had preceded him, and from the murmurs, it was clear that at least a few members of Fairy Tail had heard of the Orange Leech.

"Oi, oi, no way. That's him? The one from Cait Shelter?" A guild member muttered.

"You mean the guy who finished all those impossible missions? The one who—"

"Ahem!" Makarov coughed loudly, cutting through the noise. "Yes, him! Now, where was I? Ah, right! These three have already fought alongside some of you against Oración Seis, so they ain't strangers. Treat 'em right!"

Before anyone could react, the silence was shattered by Natsu's unmistakable roar.

"Naruto!" The pink-haired Dragon Slayer launched himself forward, fiery determination in his eyes. "We never got to finish our fight!"

Naruto blinked, then sighed with a tired grin. "Man, I was hoping you'd forget about that."

Lucy groaned, palming her forehead. "Natsu, can we not start a fight in the middle of introductions?!"

"Forget that!" Gray interjected, smirking as he crossed his arms. "I want a piece of him too. I saw how he handled himself back then. That kind of skill ain't something you see every day."

"Oi, you wanna go, ice block?" Natsu turned his fiery glare on Gray.

"Tch, like I'd lose to you, flame brain."

As their usual bickering escalated, Naruto merely rubbed the back of his head. "Y'know, I thought I'd be used to chaos, but you guys really go all out, huh?"

Erza, standing nearby with her arms crossed, simply nodded. "You'll get used to it." Then, her piercing gaze locked onto Naruto. "That being said, I would also like to test your skills myself."

Naruto gave an exaggerated sigh. "Great, I just got here, and everyone wants a piece of me. Some welcome this is."

Carla, watching from Wendy's side, scoffed. "It's not surprising, given your reputation."

Naruto chuckled, shooting her a look. "You really like hyping me up, huh?"

Meanwhile, Wendy tugged on Erza's sleeve timidly. "U-Um, Erza, do we all have to fight on our first day?"

Erza turned, her expression softening. "No, Wendy, of course not." Then she paused. "Well… unless someone challenges you. Then it'd be rude to decline."

Wendy visibly paled.

Lucy quickly stepped in before things spiraled even further. "Alright, that's enough of that! We're supposed to be welcoming them, not throwing them into a battle royale on day one!"

Makarov laughed heartily, slamming his mug on the counter. "Bwahaha! Now that's the Fairy Tail spirit! Welcome to the family, brats!"

A round of cheers erupted from the guild, and Naruto—despite the impending challenges—couldn't help but grin.

Yeah, he could get used to this.

A day after their official transfer to Fairy Tail from Cait Shelter.

In the outskirts of Magnolia, Naruto sat motionless on a rock, his keen eyes following the spar between Wendy and Carla—now in her human form. Wendy, as drilled, practiced the Gentle Fist style, her strikes precise and deliberate, aiming to disrupt internal flow rather than brute force her way through. Meanwhile, Carla displayed a more acrobatic flair, weaving through Wendy's offense with feline-like agility. Her movements were fluid, utilizing momentum and her surroundings to her advantage—a dynamic fighting style reminiscent of the teachings of Might Guy and Rock Lee.

Wendy lunged, her fingertips glowing faintly with ethernano as she aimed for Carla's center. Carla twisted midair, narrowly avoiding the strike, and used Wendy's extended arm as a springboard to flip over her. Landing lightly, she immediately transitioned into a spinning kick, forcing Wendy to duck just in time. Without missing a beat, Wendy retaliated with a palm thrust, sending a sharp gust of displaced air toward Carla, who flipped back to gain distance.

Both fighters panted slightly, their eyes locked in silent understanding. They knew what came next.

Naruto raised his hand.

"Finish it up," he called out.

In unison, Wendy and Carla straightened their postures and formed a familiar hand sign—one Naruto had drilled into them since they started sparring under his guidance. It was the same unison sign from his academy days, a symbol of mutual respect between two shinobi after a hard-fought training session.

Their hands came together, fingers interlocking in perfect synchronicity.

Naruto smirked. "Good. That's enough for today."

The two bowed respectfully to Naruto.

"In just a single mission, you two have grown tremendously," he said, his voice carrying both pride and approval. "Taking down one of the key members of Oración Seis—one of the three largest Dark Guilds on this continent—is a hell of a feat, especially at your age."

Wendy and Carla exchanged bright-eyed smiles, pride evident on their faces. Carla, ever the reserved one, tried to keep her expression subdued, but the slight upturn of her lips gave her away.

Naruto crossed his arms, nodding in satisfaction. "From this point on, I've already given you the essentials when it comes to close combat. The rest is up to you—to refine, adapt, and make it your own."

He then reached into his cloak and pulled out two wristbands—one blue, the other black. Holding them up, he said, "Here, wear these."

Carla took the black one, slipping it onto her left wrist, while Wendy secured the blue one around her right.

"What's this for, Naruto?" Carla asked, inspecting the band with mild curiosity.

"Training," Naruto replied simply. "Since you two like to train on your own, I put a seal on those wristbands. They can be activated or deactivated by imprinting your magic-infused thumb on them."

He demonstrated by pressing his right thumb to his left wrist, as if checking his pulse.

"It'll help with your growth," he added, a smirk tugging at his lips. "But I'll let you figure out how."

The two did just that, gathering magic into their thumbs before pressing them against their wristbands. The moment the seals activated, an invisible force weighed down on their bodies. Their knees nearly buckled from the sudden strain, and their breathing grew heavier as if the very air around them had thickened.

"What the—?!" Wendy gasped, her body tensing as she fought to stay upright. It wasn't just weight—it was something deeper, something pulling at her very core. "It's… syphoning my magic?!"

Carla clenched her teeth, instinctively adjusting her posture to distribute the pressure evenly. "Naruto, what is this?! My whole body feels like it's trapped in a whirlpool!" she exclaimed, flexing her fingers as even the simplest movement felt sluggish.

Naruto folded his arms, nodding approvingly. "Good. That means it's working." His expression remained composed, but there was a knowing glint in his eye. "This isn't just some regular weight training—it's endurance training at its finest. Your body isn't just dealing with added weight, it's constantly resisting its own depletion. Every motion, every step, every breath—everything will be more difficult. But as your body adapts, as your magic learns to flow under strain, you'll come out of this stronger, faster, better."

Wendy took a shaky breath, her hands clenching into fists. "So it's… kind of like increasing gravity? Like training in a stronger current to become a better swimmer?"

Naruto grinned. "Exactly. Just like how muscles grow stronger by breaking and healing, your magic will learn to circulate more efficiently. The longer you endure, the more you'll refine your control. But don't get reckless—this isn't a shortcut, it's a slow grind."

Carla scoffed, though sweat already glistened on her brow. "Of course it is. You would give us something ridiculous like this."

Naruto chuckled. "Hey, if it was easy, it wouldn't be worth it."

The two girls exchanged determined looks. Hard? Absolutely. But rewarding? That much was clear. With renewed focus, they straightened their backs, already preparing themselves for the long road ahead.

As soon as the two deactivated their wristbands, the invisible weight lifted, leaving them gasping for breath. Their muscles still burned from the strain, but a sense of accomplishment filled their chests.

Before they could say anything, Naruto reached into a small pouch and pulled out an ice cream bar. With a nostalgic smile, he snapped it in half effortlessly, handing one piece to Wendy and the other to Carla.

The two girls instinctively took their halves, exchanging a knowing glance before taking a bite. It had become a quiet tradition between them—a small, simple reward after training, a moment of peace shared between mentor and students.

Carla, ever the composed one, tried to act indifferent, but the slight twitch at the corners of her lips betrayed her. Wendy, on the other hand, beamed up at Naruto, savoring the cold sweetness that contrasted with the lingering exhaustion in her body.

Naruto leaned back on the rock, watching them eat. The sight brought back old memories—of a white-haired man with an easy-going grin, snapping an ice cream bar in half and handing the bigger piece to a scrawny, wide-eyed kid.

Pervy Sage…

He exhaled through his nose, shaking off the bittersweet feeling.

"Alright, enjoy it while you can," Naruto said with a smirk. "Because tomorrow, we're pushing it even further."

Wendy groaned dramatically, while Carla just narrowed her eyes. "Of course we are," she muttered.

Naruto just laughed, the warmth of the rising sun settling over them as their little routine continued—

Chapter End