Naruto exited the store, his steps steady and confident as he rejoined Gaia and Ella outside. Gaia was perched comfortably on Ella's head, her small form relaxed but her sharp gaze assessing Naruto.
"How did it go?" Gaia asked, her voice carrying a mix of curiosity and expectation.
"It went better than expected," Naruto replied with a faint smile, his earlier tension melting away.
Gaia nodded approvingly. "Good. Now we focus on hunting more monsters to improve your strength—and, with some luck, find any useful weapons or items along the way."
"Yeah, that's the plan." Naruto turned to Ella, who stood patiently by his side. Her eyes gleamed with a mixture of determination and trust. "Come on, Ella. While we're at it, I'll teach you how to fight with your claws."
Ella's smile widened as she flapped her wings lightly, excitement evident in her posture. "Yes, Naruto! I'll do my best."
Gaia chuckled softly as she shifted her position on Ella's head. "Then let's not waste time. The faster you grow stronger, the better your chances against that dragon."
Naruto clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. "Let's go, then. Every step forward is one step closer to victory."
Together, the trio set off, leaving the store behind and venturing deeper into the city's ruins. The hunt for power and survival was far from over, but Naruto's confidence had been bolstered. With new allies, a clear goal, and unyielding determination, the path ahead seemed a little less daunting.
Zeus:
In the grand halls of Olympus, the flickering light from golden torches cast ominous shadows across the walls. Zeus strode into his personal palace, his presence heavy with a mixture of authority and seething frustration. His every step echoed through the vast chamber, the sound a reminder of the emptiness that surrounded him despite his dominion.
He approached his grand throne—a massive construct of gold and celestial materials, adorned with intricate carvings depicting his triumphs. With a deliberate motion, he sat, leaning back as his fingers drummed impatiently on the armrests. His piercing gaze locked onto a sign suspended high above, inscribed with bold letters: Sector 67.
The mere sight of it made his jaw clench and his heart burn with impotent rage. The words felt like a brand, a constant mockery of his failure, his limitations. He wished nothing more than to reduce it to ash, to erase its existence and what it represented. Yet, the truth was bitter and undeniable: he held no power over it.
Zeus's hands tightened, his knuckles turning white as his mind churned with thoughts of resentment. They do not understand me, he seethed internally. They never will. They have become soft, fragile like the mortals they claim to protect.
The immortal's gaze flickered with a mix of yearning and fury as he leaned forward, his fingers gripping the throne's edge. I need power. True power. But they would never accept the lengths I would go to attain it. Fools! Blinded by their arrogance and self-righteousness.
He let out a bitter chuckle, his voice echoing in the cavernous hall. "Hypocrites," he muttered under his breath, shaking his head.
Zeus's thoughts drifted to his past indulgences. I lost myself in my appetites, my endless lust, seeking to drown the pain and hatred that gnawed at me. But it was futile—a mere distraction from the truth. His eyes narrowed as he reflected on the revelation that had changed everything.
And then... the world smiled upon me. It handed me an opportunity, a way to break free. His lips curled into a predatory grin as the fire of obsession lit in his eyes. How can I resist such a temptation? To finally rid myself of this slavery, to destroy the chains that bind me?
Zeus's grip tightened until the armrest of his throne cracked and shattered beneath his hand. Splinters of divine material scattered to the floor as he rose to his feet, his towering frame radiating power and ambition. He paced with purpose, his golden robes trailing behind him like a storm cloud.
"Soon," he muttered, his voice carrying a dark promise. "Soon, I will have my dreams realized. No more strings on me. No more immortals, mortals, or anyone standing above me. I am Zeus! And the heavens will bow before me once more."
In the silence that followed, the air itself seemed to tremble with his declaration. Madness and intelligence burned equally in his gaze as he stared at the sign once more. Sector 67, he thought, his resolve solidifying. Your existence is temporary. I will not be denied.
Naruto:
Naruto staggered into the park under the warm hues of the evening sky, his body battered and aching from the day's relentless battles. Bruises marred his skin, cuts laced his arms and legs, and his once-pristine clothing was now torn and bloodstained. Ella, equally worn and battered, had landed moments ago, unable to maintain her flight any longer. The sound of her pained cry jolted Naruto from his thoughts, and he swiftly moved to catch her before she hit the ground.
"Ella, stop struggling. I've got you," he said, his voice soft but firm as he cradled her in his arms.
The golden-eyed creature gazed up at him, her pain evident, but she nodded, her trust in him unwavering. Though she had insisted on carrying her weight earlier, it was clear that her body couldn't take much more.
"You should've let me handle it from the start," he muttered as he shifted her carefully in his arms, his movements deliberate to avoid causing her further pain.
Above them, Gaia hovered with an exasperated expression, her tiny figure emanating an aura of disapproval. "You should've been more systematic about this. Charging into the fray like a berserk fool is a recipe for disaster," she scolded, her tone laced with irritation. "You still have two weeks. Even if you lost a couple of days, it wouldn't make much difference."
Naruto sighed, his resolve unshaken. "I can't afford to hold back, Gaia. If I don't push myself to the limit, I might not be ready when the time comes. Every life I fail to protect because I didn't try hard enough will haunt me. Those nymphs, their innocence, their hope… they're depending on me. I won't let them down."
Gaia softened at his words, though she let out a weary sigh. "Fine, but promise me you'll be more careful. I can't bear to see you in this state."
"I'll try," he replied, offering her a faint smile despite the pain etched into his face. "But sometimes, pain is the price we pay for doing what's right."
Gaia nodded, her gaze lingering on him with a mix of affection and concern. "Just don't push yourself to death, Naruto. Tartarus is not a place you want to end up. If you fall, you'll be reborn in his domain, and he'll sense our bond. He'll send legions after you, and I won't be able to help."
Naruto shivered at the thought, a cold dread washing over him. "Got it. Avoid dying at all costs," he said with a nervous chuckle.
Changing the subject, he asked, "Any news from Olympus?"
"They're occupied," Gaia said, a note of relief in her voice. "The Gigantes—my other children—are keeping them busy. Your presence hasn't drawn their attention yet."
Naruto's expression shifted to one of curiosity. "So the demi-immortal I saw fighting earlier was probably battling one of your children?"
Gaia nodded. "Most likely Porphyrion, the king of the giants and Zeus's nemesis."
Naruto's lips curled into a faint grin. "Interesting. If he's out there, maybe we can meet him after I deal with the dragon."
Gaia froze mid-air, her gaze narrowing. "Tame the dragon? You didn't mention that part."
Naruto shrugged, his demeanor nonchalant. "We need a ride. I can't fly, and I don't have my old speed anymore. The dragon would be a perfect solution. Of course, only if it surrenders."
Gaia crossed her arms, her tiny frame radiating exasperation. "And what if it doesn't?"
"Then I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it," Naruto replied with a determined look. "But taming it is the logical move. It's better to have a powerful ally than to destroy it outright."
Gaia studied him for a moment before nodding reluctantly. "Fine. Just… be careful, Naruto. You've already proven you can survive against impossible odds. Don't make me question if you'll survive your own ambitions."
With Ella nestled safely in his arms and Gaia floating alongside him, Naruto moved forward, determined to heal, regroup, and prepare for the trials yet to come. The dragon awaited, but so too did destiny.
As Naruto approached the park's entrance, Alice greeted him warmly, her expression lighting up with hope when she saw his battered appearance. Despite the bruises and cuts covering his body, she could see his determination and resolve, which reassured her that the champion was doing everything in his power to fulfill his duty.
"Welcome back, Naruto. How was your outing?" she asked, her voice gentle but filled with curiosity.
"Very productive," Naruto replied with a tired smile. "Though if you don't mind, do you have any fruits? The things I've come across out there are... unnatural. I can sense impurities in them, and I'd rather not scavenge the whole city when I'm already occupied."
Alice's face lit up at the opportunity to help. "Of course! The dryads can provide you with fruits that will increase your vitality and help heal your wounds," she explained, leading the way to a shaded area where they could rest.
Naruto gently set Ella down on the soft grass, his concern evident as he began using the last of his energy to heal her. Her wings twitched as he worked, and she whimpered in pain as the magic knit her injuries back together. By the time he finished, Naruto was completely drained.
He sat back with a sigh, muttering to himself, "Now I understand how normal people feel. How can they do so much with such low reserves of energy?"
Gaia, floating nearby, chuckled softly. "That's what the strong always ask when they see the weak accomplish great feats through ingenuity and determination."
Naruto shook his head, still struggling to adjust to his current limitations. As he brushed Ella's hair affectionately, she rested her head on his lap, giggling softly despite her fatigue. The pure innocence of her laughter eased some of his exhaustion, and he smiled down at her.
Around them, a group of wind nymphs began to gather, drawn to Naruto's calming presence and the faint energy emanating from him. Their wide-eyed fascination made the scene almost idyllic, but before they could swarm him, Alice intervened.
"Children, do not disturb them," she said in a firm but motherly tone, and the nymphs reluctantly retreated, casting longing glances over their shoulders.
Alice returned shortly, carrying a leaf platter laden with vibrant, fresh fruits. "Here you go. Please enjoy."
"Thank you," Naruto said gratefully as he took one of the fruits and fed it to Ella. The golden-eyed girl smiled weakly, savoring the revitalizing taste. Noticing Gaia's curious gaze, Naruto picked up a small piece and offered it to her. She hesitated for a moment before nibbling on it delicately, her tiny mouth making the moment unexpectedly endearing.
Gaia turned away to hide her pleased expression, and Naruto couldn't help but laugh softly. "Even immortals can be cute," he teased.
Alice hesitated for a moment before asking, "Naruto, do you require our help in facing the dragon?"
Naruto chewed thoughtfully before replying. "Yes. I'd like the wind nymphs to create distractions in the air and the water nymphs to prepare to counter any fire attacks. Ella and I will handle the rest."
Alice nodded, then hesitated again, clearly gathering her courage. "If I may, I'd like to offer additional assistance. The dragon is an aerial threat, and while Ella is strong, carrying you during combat could hinder her."
Naruto raised an eyebrow. "How would you assist?"
"I can combine with you," Alice said, her cheeks flushing slightly. "As a high-level nymph, I can transform into armor that enhances your abilities and allows you to fly."
Gaia burst into laughter, breaking the tension. "How romantic!" she teased, earning an accusatory glare from Naruto.
Alice looked mortified, but Naruto spoke gently. "Can you show me how it works?"
Alice nodded eagerly. She extended her hand, and as Naruto touched it, her form dissolved into a swirling breeze. The wind wrapped around him, forming a sleek, elegant armor with wings on his back and a crown on his head. Naruto felt a surge of power and a sense of warmth as if he were being embraced.
"You should be able to move like the wind," Alice's voice echoed in his mind.
Naruto tested the armor, taking flight and performing agile maneuvers in the air. The enhanced speed and fluidity of his movements filled him with confidence. "Impressive," he said, landing gracefully beside Ella.
The nymphs around them gazed at him with renewed awe, their faith in their champion deepening. Even Ella looked up at him with admiration, her golden eyes sparkling with excitement.
"I think we stand a much better chance now," Naruto said. "Thank you, Alice. Your help will be invaluable."
Alice separated from him, visibly fatigued but beaming with happiness. "I'll rest and recover so I can give my best during the battle," she said before excusing herself.
Naruto turned to Gaia with a pointed look. "So, why did you laugh?"
Gaia smirked mischievously. "Oh, nothing. It just seemed like an elaborate confession."
Naruto rolled his eyes. "It was nothing of the sort. Alice was simply offering her assistance."
"Sure, assistance," Gaia said with a knowing smile before perching herself on a nearby tree branch.
Naruto sighed, shaking his head but unable to suppress a small smile as he prepared for the challenges ahead.