NOVEL NEXT Chapter 8: Chapter 8: A Rift in Time
Ethan stood on the Hokage Monument, gazing at the peaceful village below. After the battle with the Rift Walker, the village had returned to its usual tranquility. Yet, Ethan couldn't shake the feeling of impending danger.
"System," Ethan muttered, his voice low. "What's the status of the dimensional rift?"
> "Rift activity remains unstable. New disturbances detected. Recommend immediate investigation."
As Ethan turned to descend, Hinata appeared behind him, her Byakugan active. "Ethan, I sensed something strange near the training grounds. It feels... unnatural."
Ino and Tsunade arrived moments later, their expressions tense.
"Kakashi sent us to find you," Ino said. "Something big is happening."
---
The Mysterious Ruins
Ethan and his companions followed the energy disturbance to the outskirts of the village. There, they discovered a strange set of ruins that hadn't been there before. The air around the ruins crackled with energy, and a faint, eerie hum resonated through the area.
Tsunade examined the structure with a critical eye. "This isn't from our world. It's like something out of legend."
Ethan activated his system to scan the ruins.
> "Analysis complete: Ruins are remnants of a collapsed dimension. They serve as a gateway to another world."
"Another world," Ethan murmured. "This could be our next destination."
Before anyone could react, the ruins began to glow. A portal formed at their center, its swirling vortex pulling them closer.
"We need to move!" Ethan shouted, but the portal's pull was too strong. One by one, they were sucked into the rift.
---
A New World
Ethan awoke to find himself in a dense forest, the air heavy with magic. Looking around, he saw Hinata, Ino, and Tsunade regaining their footing.
"Where are we?" Hinata asked, her voice filled with wonder.
The system chimed in.
> "Location: Fiore. This world is dominated by magical guilds and ancient mysteries. Objective: Establish alliances and uncover the source of the rift activity."
Ethan's heart raced. Fiore—this was the world of Fairy Tail.
As they explored the forest, they heard the sounds of battle nearby. Ethan led the group toward the commotion, where they found a red-haired woman fighting off a horde of shadowy creatures.
"It's Erza Scarlet," Ethan whispered, recognizing her instantly.
---
Joining the Fight
Without hesitation, Ethan and his companions jumped into the fray. Erza glanced at them briefly, her expression a mixture of surprise and gratitude.
"Can you handle yourselves?" she called out, summoning a new set of armor mid-battle.
"Don't worry about us," Ethan replied, unleashing a wave of energy that scattered several creatures.
Hinata and Ino coordinated their attacks, their teamwork flawless. Tsunade's raw strength decimated the remaining enemies, and within minutes, the battlefield was clear.
Erza approached, her crimson hair shimmering in the sunlight. "You're not from around here, are you?"
Ethan smiled. "You could say that. We're travelers looking for answers."
Erza studied him for a moment before nodding. "If you're seeking answers, you'll find them at the Fairy Tail guild. Follow me."
---
The Fairy Tail Guild
Walking into the Fairy Tail guild hall was like stepping into another world. The lively atmosphere, filled with laughter and shouting, was infectious. Ethan spotted several familiar faces: Natsu, Lucy, Gray, and Happy.
As Erza introduced the newcomers, Natsu bounded over, his enthusiasm palpable.
"New people? Awesome!" Natsu exclaimed. "Are you strong?"
"Strong enough," Ethan replied with a grin.
Lucy approached, her curiosity evident. "Where exactly are you from?"
Ethan decided to keep things simple. "A place far from here. We're just passing through."
The guild accepted them without hesitation, their warmth and camaraderie reminding Ethan of Konoha.
---
The Rift's Influence
Later that evening, Erza pulled Ethan aside. "I noticed something during the battle. Those creatures we fought—they're not from this world."
Ethan nodded. "They came through a dimensional rift. We're here to stop whatever's causing them."
Erza's expression hardened. "If that's true, you'll need all the help you can get. I'll join you."
The system chimed in.
> "Erza Scarlet has joined your team. Affection level: 10%. Strength bonus unlocked."
Ethan felt a surge of determination. With Erza on their side, their chances of success had increased significantly.
---
A New Mission
The next morning, the system provided a new mission.
> "Objective: Investigate the origin of the shadow creatures and close the dimensional rift in Fiore. Reward: Enhanced dimensional travel and increased team abilities."
Ethan gathered his team, now including Erza. The journey ahead would be perilous, but he was ready.
"This is just the beginning," Ethan said, his voice filled with resolve.
As they set out, the sky above Fiore seemed to shimmer, as though the multiverse itself was watching.
---
End of Chapter 8