THE YELLOW LIGHT THAT AWAITS THE RUINS.

The whispers of the wind in the desert intertwined like an ancient chant, filling the night air with its ethereal presence. Under the dark cloak of night, the moon rose majestically, shedding its pale light over the vast desert landscape.

Despite the prevailing darkness, a penetrating cold clung to the atmosphere. It seemed that the moon itself brought with it an invisible force that enveloped the desert, making the climate oppressive. There were no threatening clouds or furious winds to account for this heaviness; It was as if a subtle, indescribable presence permeated the air.

In the midst of the apparent stillness, the desert seemed to be populated by an invisible myriad of beings, ghostly entities that lurked in the gloom.

Each whisper of the wind seemed to carry with it a distant echo, a barely perceptible wail that echoed in the soul. As if the sands themselves held the secrets of forgotten times, and the whispers of the night were the echo of those that lay buried beneath layers of history.

As we descend, leaving the golden surface behind, we enter the depths of the desert. The ground becomes firm and dark, surrounded by bare rock walls. The air thickens, imbued with an ancient and mysterious energy.

In a hidden corner under the desert sands, in a labyrinth of tunnels and underground passageways, the children are reunited with the great old woman. The dim light of torches and campfires illuminates their faces, revealing a mixture of amazement and distrust. In this subterranean space, far from the whispers of the desert, secrets and revelations await, ready to be discovered in the gloom.

Like students in a wisdom class, the young ninja sit around the campfire, ready to listen to the old woman resting her hands on her knees. The staff he had used during his presentation to Boruto rests beside him, waiting to be wielded once more.

Although they were underground and safe from those who had attacked them for no apparent reason, the tension was still palpable in the air. The mustachioed blond's eyes widened slightly, revealing his growing uneasiness as he stared at the old woman by the campfire. His hands pressed firmly on his ankles, while his shoulders rose slightly, obvious signs of his uneasiness.

Around the warm campfire, the young ninjas settled in a circle, their gazes fixed on the old woman who rested her hands on her knees. Behind her, her staff waited silently, ready to be wielded once more. Despite the safe environment offered by the underground shelter, worry persisted, lurking in the corners of their minds and reflecting in the blond's tense posture.

The old woman, with an imperturbable calm, watched the dance of the flames with a serenity that seemed to transcend time.

His deep gaze was lost in the dance of light and shadow, as if he were looking for answers in the depths of the fire. Though silence reigned in the underground shelter, the air was charged with palpable tension, a latent expectation for the words that would emerge from the lips of the wise old woman.

The young ninjas, in respectful silence and filled with contained anxiety, waited with patience that was beginning to fade.

They longed for answers that would shed light on the mystery around them, but at the same time they feared revelations that could shake their foundations.

At that moment, in the midst of the gloom of the underground shelter, there was a delicate balance between uncertainty and the determination to unravel the hidden truth.

Mirai watched intently as Hako poured the hot soup into the rough wooden and thick ceramic cups.

A slight gesture of nervousness was reflected on the young woman's face, capturing the tension that floated in the air full of silence.

He knew the peculiarities of the old woman, understanding her mastery in the art of silence, leaving her interlocutors immersed in expectation, waiting patiently for her words.

Mirai's eyes drifted to the children around her, sensing the palpable anticipation that manifested itself in her restless gestures.

He was aware that what the old woman had to say could set off a series of events that would change their lives forever. He reflected on the challenges that awaited them, the difficult decisions they would have to make, and how they might face the uncertainties that lay ahead.

As the old woman maintained her silence, Mirai immersed herself in her thoughts, mentally preparing herself for the inevitable words to come.

He remembered the previous occasions when he had witnessed how the old woman wove each of his words with skill, as if she were weaving a riddle that needed to be deciphered. A mixture of nervousness and curiosity came over Mirai, wondering how the children would react when the old woman finally decided to speak up and reveal the secrets she was keeping.

Finally, the old lady broke the silence, pulling everyone out of their expectation and surprising even Sarutobi, who was able to breathe a little easier.

The young ninjas turned their attention to her, aware that it was now their responsibility to explain the situation. Mirai, her eyes reddened, focused on the task of distributing the hot food, recognizing that there were others more qualified than she was to tackle the subject.

The old woman, as if emerging from a trance, began to speak, revealing that Mirai had mentioned the children to them while they were sleeping.

This casual revelation generated a sense of relief in everyone, feeling a little calmer knowing that at least someone was informed about their situation. However, the old woman made it clear that there would be no favoritism or advantages for anyone. All were equally affected by the scroll, except for Mirai, whose effects appeared to be slower and less deadly.

The children began to ask questions in their minds, wanting to better understand the situation they were in. However, they were afraid to interrupt the old woman, who seemed to be the repository of answers they craved.

Doubts crowded in their heads, but they did not know how to approach them in a natural and respectful way. Mirai, aware of her classmates' restlessness, shared that same desire for answers, but she also understood the importance of respecting the old woman's rhythm and wisdom.

Everyone waited patiently for the right moment to ask their questions and clear up the unknowns that surrounded them. The old woman, in a calm and calm voice, began to unravel the mystery behind the parchment and how they had come to the past.

He explained how the adults, brave and self-sacrificing, had made a pact with the scroll to activate the Jutsu that transported them back in time. He detailed the risks and consequences of such an act, showing the love and determination they had to protect young people and ensure a better future.

The children's eyes widened with awe and melancholy admiration as they heard the adults' story of bravery and sacrifice. They understood the magnitude of the desperate act they had carried out to bring them into this new time.

Questions began to rise from the lips of the young ninjas, each expressing their curiosity and seeking a greater understanding of what happened.

Hoki, with his serious and determined expression, asked about the side effects of Jutsu and if there was any way to reverse them.

Tsuru, with his uneasiness evident on his face, questioned about the possibilities of returning to his original time.

Metal, with her determination and somewhat broken protective spirit, inquired about how they could prevent future cataclysms and protect their loved ones.

Wasabi, with his penetrating and thoughtful gaze, asked about the ethical and moral implications of changing the course of history.

Denki, with his nimble and insightful mind, inquired about the limits and scope of the scroll, and if there was a way to use it for the benefit of all. The old woman answered each of the questions wisely and patiently, summarizing her answers in a way that would not overwhelm the young people.

His words resonated in the hearts of the children, who experienced a mixture of emotions: confusion, decadent hope, uncertainty and determination. Although there were still many unknowns to be solved, the old woman answered each of the previous ones correctly.

"Its side effects migrate from time to time. The only people capable of surviving are those who are older than the time they came from. You are very young, and your existences are very fragile. They have to be careful with common diseases and scratches. I am sorry to say that there is no way to counteract the effects, so far." He replied to Hoki. 

"Parchment is a medium that calls for a technique forbidden even to the gods. Carrying it out comes at a great price. Their families, friends, acquaintances... All of them vanished along with their entire timeline. Being under fifteen years of age, they must be protected by the parchment that exists in the present time, and which lies hidden in an unknown place." He replied to Tsuru. 

"The consequences of parchment take us to a nucleus where all life is extinguished. However, parchment still exists at this time. Therefore, it is best never to touch it, and never to talk about its existence... Do you understand what I am saying?" He replied to Metal. 

"Any event that happens here and now, as long as it's not especially against you, won't do such a thing as eliminate you. Even if your parents do not get to know each other, you will still exist. But now that you are here, time accumulates slings that will be returned to you if you are not careful." He replied to Wasabi. 

"Limits... jum? That's a good question. But I'm terrified just thinking about it, since this has never happened. While my duty and obligation is to help those who are lost to time, this has never happened. However... I know it won't be long before we find out." When he answered Denki, the boy opened his eyes in surprise. 

The underground shelter is plunged into a dense silence, impregnated with mixed emotions. The children, with worried faces and eyes full of pain, assimilate the complex answers that the old woman has given them. The reality of their current situation begins to sink into their hearts, reflected in their anguished expressions.

Some, like Hoki and Tsuru, seek solace in the food they've been offered. With trembling hands, they grab the cups of steaming soup and begin to consume it anxiously, as if the act of eating might temporarily distract them from the heartbreaking truth they've heard.

However, others refuse food. Their gazes avoid the plates, their faces pale and tense. Mirai, showing empathy and support, quietly approaches them and offers them words of encouragement, urging them to eat despite the nausea they feel writhing in their stomachs.

Meanwhile, Sarada, with determination in her gaze, captures the attention of everyone in the room when she raises her hand. The weight of his surname, Uchiha, is palpable in the air, filling the space with an aura of mystery and concern.

With a seriously disturbed expression in her deep dark eyes, Sarada takes a deep breath and asks permission to speak. His voice, firm but full of uncertainty and fear, resonates in the cave.

"Let me ask another question..." says Sarada, her voice trembling but determined. "If we are now in a time and place that does not belong to us, what should we do with our surnames? Should we hide our identity to protect ourselves?"

The question reverberates in the cave, enveloping everyone in a tense silence. Each contemplates the significance of Sarada's words and how they will affect their fate in this strange world.

The old woman takes a moment to reflect before answering, her wrinkled gaze resting on Sarada with a mixture of understanding and wisdom.

The air in the cave becomes dense as everyone waits for the old woman's response. Although her wrinkled eyelids remain closed, there is an intensity in her gaze directed towards Sarada. It is as if he possesses additional knowledge, information shared in secret.

Finally, the old woman breaks the silence, her voice charged with a heaviness that reflects the gravity of the situation.

"Surnames are not just words; they are a seal that represents history and family lineage. However, in this new time and place, they no longer have a place. It's best to keep your last names a secret to protect yourself and your loved ones." The old woman speaks with a seriousness that echoes in the words and resonates in the hearts of those present. 

A slight movement of her eyes reveals that the old woman has noticed the clan's mark on Namida's sweater. However, in a low but clearly audible voice, he mutters a warning:

"Even the clans to which they belong must remain hidden. They must not display the symbols or markings of their clans at this time. It is a necessary precaution to maintain your safety in this unknown time." The old woman warns, her voice resonating with authority and wisdom. 

The atmosphere in the cave becomes even bleaker, and the children feel how reality is hanging over them. Their eyes intertwine, reflecting the concern and determination on their faces. The family ties and legacies of their clans, once sources of pride, now become a reminder of their vulnerability and the need to protect themselves in this new time and place.

The old lady's answer leaves a bitter taste in the air, but it also instills a sense of caution in the hearts of the young ninjas.

The silence that follows the old woman's words is overwhelming. The eyes of those present drift to Sarada, aware of the emotional charge that her question has left in her heart. Boruto, Mitsuki, ChouChou, and Mirai watch her out of the corner of their eye, worried about her reaction to the response she just received.

Sarada's countenance reflects the impact of the old woman's words. Slowly, his hand descends to rest next to his body, while his gaze is fixed on the ground. A whirlwind of thoughts seems to overwhelm his mind, as if he were going back in time in search of answers to his question.

His fists clench tightly over his thighs, revealing the internal struggle he is experiencing.

Chou Chou barely takes his eyes off Sarada, and his eyes seem to reflect his own concerns.

"And... How are we supposed to live now?" She asks, the desperation evident in her honey-colored eyes. "What should we do to not disappear?"

"You're a ninja, and I know you have the ability to take care of yourself." The old woman replies, watching the flames of the campfire. "But, as I told your friend, there are things that are beyond his control."

ChouChou sinks into his seat as he hears those words again. The soup in his hands no longer seems as appetizing as it once did. He purses his lips, showing an obvious gesture of frustration that does not go unnoticed by his teammate.

The pale-skinned Yamanaka watched beside him, showing a colder face at the situation, though equally affected. He was troubled by the thoughts of the one and only Akimichi, known for acting impulsively without considering the consequences.

She, who used to live life as if it were a movie, now seemed crumbling. The gap between the two became apparent, and the Yamanaka felt a deep regret as he realized that the only ties they had left were their teammates.

The old lady glanced sideways at the Ino-Shika-Chou trio. She knew that, despite their youth, these children might have different values and perspectives than hers. The experience of fifteen years in an unknown world could change anyone, and the old woman was aware of it.

After all, fifteen years is a long time. Anything could have happened in that time.

"Their ninja techniques may still be effective, but that doesn't give them any advantage." Iwabee and Wasabi were surprised to hear the old woman's words. "The amount of Chakra you possess has not been affected, but once you deplete it..."

"What can happen then?" asked Renga, Hoki's companion. 

The old woman took the floor, her eyes half-open observing each of the children, even those who were not looking directly at her.

"I warn you not to put it to the test. Any effect they experience on their bodies will be as if they have aged fifteen years." The ninjas inhaled in surprise. "But I trust you will be cautious enough. Please take my advice and refrain from using your Chakra for the time being."

"Huh?"

"It can't be..."

The children remained silent, absorbed by the weight of the reality they had just faced. The shadow of the uncertain future loomed over them, and uncertainty filled the cave.

Boruto kept his gaze fixed on the ground, his countenance reflecting a mixture of frustration and resignation. Mitsuki, with his characteristic calm but worriedness, intertwined his fingers and gently squeezed them in a gesture of containment.

Enko, the young woman with an unsettling technical ability, couldn't contain her uneasiness and broke the silence. His bright eyes met those of the old lady as he asked his question in a trembling but determined voice:

"How are we going to survive without using our Chakra? Isn't it fundamental for us as ninjas?"

The old lady focused her attention on Enko, her narrowed eyes reflecting a deep understanding. He took a moment to ponder before answering, choosing his words carefully.

"Don't worry. Living without Chakra is possible, as long as you avoid combat and remain discreet in this unknown world in which you find yourself. There is vast knowledge of traditional survival that they can acquire to stay safe and in harmony with nature."

The old woman's words aroused the children's curiosity. Mirai, with her sharp gaze, raised an eyebrow and asked with interest:

"What do you mean by traditional survival? Are there skills and techniques we can learn to protect ourselves? Techniques that don't reveal our identity as ninjas?"

The old lady nodded, allowing a small glimmer of hope to reflect in her wrinkled eyes.

"That's right, traditional survival encompasses a wide range of skills that allow people to live in harmony with nature and adapt to various situations. Learning the basics of hunting, gathering food, building shelters, and on-the-ground orientation can make the difference between life and death in times of need."

The children listened attentively, captivated by the old woman's words. As ninjas, they had basic survival knowledge, but the idea of applying it in a traditional way generated a certain uncertainty in some and a sense of adventure in others.

Boruto looked up determinedly and asked:

"Do we... Would you show how to do it without attracting so much attention?"

The old lady smiled benevolently, nodding approvingly.

"Of course. I am here to guide you and teach you everything you need to survive. But remember, you must be discreet and careful. Our main goal is to find a way not to attract those of the Past into their affairs, which means avoiding unnecessary confrontations and staying hidden."

In the cave, an atmosphere charged with determination and hope enveloped the young ninjas. They were determined to face the challenge presented to them and to acquire the skills necessary to survive in an unknown world. As the old woman began to impart her ancestral wisdom, a spark of determination flashed in the young Uzumaki's eyes.

There was something deeply personal about his commitment to that goal.

For him, it was more than learning to survive; It was an opportunity to defy the restrictions imposed by his own heritage.

Although the Chakra was essential for a ninja, Boruto was determined to prove that he could find his inner strength beyond that dependency. He knew that his true strength lay in the values passed down by those who came before him, those who sacrificed everything to protect and preserve those values.

For Boruto, this was an opportunity to prove himself, to show that he was capable of facing adversity and thriving, even without relying solely on the power that flowed through him. Her determination was a tribute to those who had sacrificed so much to bequeath her that legacy of courage and resilience.

With her calm and wise voice, the old woman continued to impart teachings on the basic principles of traditional survival. He explained to them the importance of resting after meals, allowing their bodies to make the most of the nutrients and recover properly.

He recommended that they be ready to leave at dawn, when the first rays of sunlight illuminated the horizon, to enter the intricate underground tunnels that would lead them to a safer place: the main base, where they could deepen the learning of these ancient skills.

Boruto absorbed every word attentively, etching every piece of advice and lesson in his mind. He was determined to acquire all the knowledge necessary to face the challenges that awaited them in this unknown world.

Adversity would not overcome him; instead, he would embrace it as an opportunity to grow and prove himself.

The night progressed in the cave as the young ninjas shared a modest but comforting dinner. The old woman reminded them of the importance of getting adequate rest and allowing their dreams to strengthen them, as at dawn a new chapter in their journey would open before them.

Once they finished eating, they settled into their makeshift sleeping spots, letting sleep embrace them and prepare them for the challenges that awaited them when they woke up.

However, Shikadai struggled to find sleep in the darkness of the cold, gloomy cave. His face reflected a mixture of concern and determination, aware of the weight he carried as heir to the shadows.

The responsibility of protecting her loved ones weighed on her shoulders, especially when it came to those she considered special.

Silently, Shikadai stared at the fuzzy shapes he knew so well: his father's shadow. Sitting serenely, his father caressed a smaller shadow beside him, whose gentle movements and caresses revealed the connection and affection between them.

Although he could barely make them out in the gloom of the cave, those gestures were like a stimulus to his vision and a source of inspiration to give them names.

Mirai's dark figure reassured Enko, helping her fall asleep while her companions slept at her feet for company. Although the cave wasn't spacious, it wasn't small either. Everyone could sleep separately, but some chose to be close to each other.

As he drifted into sleep, Shikadai's thoughts turned to his father's last words. He had complete confidence in Mirai, the last Sarutobi. This implied that Shikadai should place his trust in her as well, protecting her from the adversities that time might bring.

The young Nara understood that his role was not limited to preserving his own lineage and legacy, but also to protecting and supporting those he cared about. He could not afford to die in vain, nor allow his companions to face a similar fate.

He had to find the strength and wisdom needed to face the challenges ahead and protect Mirai, who had now become a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness.

He couldn't risk losing the one thing that kept him connected to his father's memory.

(~~~)

As the sun began to timidly illuminate the horizon, the old woman guided the group of young ninjas through the intricate underground tunnels. The air was humid and the light barely reached the narrow passages, creating a mysterious atmosphere filled with whispers from the shadows.

With impressive dexterity, the old woman lifted the heavy stone walls as if they were feathers, opening them with a smooth, controlled movement that left the children in awe. Each time, he revealed a new passage in the darkness, guiding them into the unknown with a confidence that instilled confidence in the group.

As they made their way through the dark underground passages, the young ninjas watched in amazement as the old woman manipulated the hard material with unearthly ease. In a short break, surrounded by the dancing shadows of torches, the young ninjas took the opportunity to pose some questions to their mysterious guide.

Enko, with palpable curiosity in his voice, broke the silence.

"Grandma, how can you move these stones so easily? It seems like you're not even making an effort." Enko asked curiously, watching in amazement as the old woman handled the heavy rocks as if they were leaves in the wind. 

The old lady smiled wisely and looked over her shoulder before answering in a calm voice.

"These tunnels have been my home for years. Over time, I learned to master the energies that flow in the earth and use them to my advantage. It is an ancient art that few master."

Intrigued, Boruto moved a little closer.

"You don't need to use Chakra to do that? And how did you learn all that? Who taught you?" He asked with interest. 

The old woman was silent for a few moments, while the sound of her shoes echoed in the underground passage. Finally, his voice was filled with nostalgia.

"It was my teacher, a wise and powerful man, who taught me the secrets of the earth. But that's a story for another time."

Boruto's brow furrowed in his direction. During the walk, he held back his growl in protest, remembering the repression he received in their first meeting. From then on, she felt as if her body automatically stopped every time she tried to contradict her.

Namida, looking back at the group, noticed Mirai's absence and worry took over.

"Wait, Mirai-san is not with us! Where is he?" He asked nervously. 

The old woman stopped briefly and turned to Namida. The unflinching seriousness in his wrinkled eyes was evident.

"Mirai is investigating the surface with my subordinates. Like an experienced Kunoichi, she knows how to take care of herself. There's no reason to worry about your safety." The old woman declared calmly. 

Iwabee and Boruto could not contain their discontent and protested in unison.

"But that's not fair! Why can she go and we can't?" They exclaimed. 

The old woman looked at them with a mixture of understanding and authority.

"Mirai is exactly fifteen years old, which makes her safer in this situation. In addition, she is accompanied by my subordinates, who will protect her in case of danger. We must trust their judgment and experience."

Despite the old woman's words, Shikadai sensed something in her attitude. Her sharp eyes noticed how the old woman cast fleeting glances at her own back as they advanced. Suspicion grew inside him, but he decided to keep quiet for the moment.

The group pressed on through the mysterious underground tunnels, uncertainty and unanswered questions lurking around every corner. Although the old woman guided them deftly, her behavior raised doubts about the secrets she kept.

Maintaining his lead, he tightened his grip on his candlestick.

"That young woman... He has been given a rather difficult task."