Chapter 35: Know Thyself

Barren Land Outside of the Village…

Naruto was in his five-tails form lying on the ground in pain. Gaara made sure that Kankerou and Matsuri were standing behind him. Sasuke was on the other side helplessly watching over Naruto.

Sasuke's sharingan was active once again. "I will bring and end to this."

Gaara's sand wrapped around Sasuke's legs, "You will do no such thing. This is his battle, can't you see he's trying to fight it. See what happens."

Sasuke wasn't in the mood to deal with Gaara, but he knew that he was right. Besides, if it was him, he wouldn't want anyone interfering as well. "Hmph" was all Sasuke said.

Naruto was clutching his head. The pain, the mental anguish, everything he was going through was a huge strain on him. He was trying his best not to give in. But it was hard… harder then he could ever imagine.

Inside Naruto's head…

Inside Naruto's mind, where the den for the nine-tails lays deep in the depths of the sewers,… was the monster that had Naruto in the palm of his hand. Kyuubi was laughing as he squeezed Naruto.

"Foolish boy, did you really think that you could use my power without paying a price?" The Kyuubi said in a menacing voice.

"Let me go you bastard I'll…"

Kyuubi laughed, "You'll what, scream at me to you die? Don't worry, I had intended on making you do just that. Where is your charming wit at now Naruto? I don't hear the 'Fur ball' jokes, where did they go? I rather enjoyed them. You know what I'm going to enjoy more... I'm going to enjoy eating that bitch of yours. Now who's the one in control?"

Naurto continued to struggle to no avail. He tried to free himself but no matter what he tried it just wasn't happening. "I can't give up… Yumi… I have to… save.." Naruto yells resonated through the sewer.

"Yes, yes scream a little louder Naruto. I've been waiting for the right moment when you would be exhausted. I knew that would be the perfect time. Ryuuho told you that it's okay to use my power, he lied to you dear boy. My power can't be wielded by a weakling such as you." The Kyuubi words cause Naruto to look at the menacing demon with disdain, however this was only for a second. As soon his eyes met with the Kyuubi, the demon fox squeezed Naruto tighter in the palm of his hand. His screams echoed through the sewer.

Heading towards Naruto's location…

Neji, Tenten, Lee, Ino, Shino, Kiba and Akamaru all were heading towards Naruto's location. Akamaru however stopped, which caused everyone else to stop as well.

Kiba looked upon Akamaru with a worried gaze, "What's wrong buddy?"

The dog barked, Kiba understood what he said. Neji looked at Kiba, "What did he say?"

While kneeling down to comfort Akamaru, he turned his head toward Neji "He said that Naruto's power is filled with so much evil that Akamaru is scared. Going near Naruto may be dangerous."

Neji turned toward the direction in which Naruto was in and activated his Byakugan. From the chakra he was feeling and what he was now seeing, it was confirmed that Naruto was transforming. "He's looks like a miniature Kyuubi, this isn't good. I'm curious to why Sasuke and Gaara are just standing there. I wonder…" Neji didn't even alert the others that he was leaving, he just took off and headed in the direction that Naruto was in.

Ino yelled out, "Hey Neji! Shesh, the guy doesn't even give us warning. I hate men, all them idiots." Ino followed suit. Lee and Tenten both followed as well.

Shino remained with Kiba and Akamaru. With is hand in his pocket, he turned to Kiba, "Will he be alright?"

Kiba nodded, "Akamaru will be fine, I'm just trying to calm him." Kiba said while petting the shaking dog.

"My bugs are agitated by the evil contained within Naruto's chakra. Well we should probably catch up, worse comes to worse, we will have to stop Naruto."

Kiba laughed, "You did mean to say 'try' right? Some how don't think we can do anything at this point?"

Shino adjusted his glasses, "Catch up when he's ready to go."

When Kiba nodded, Shino sunshine's out of view. Moving through the forest, Shino thought about what Kiba said, "You're right Kiba… there is nothing we can do if the nine-tails gets free." Shino continued his trek towards Naruto.

Heading toward Naruto's location 2 minutes away…

Shikamaru, Sakura, Anko, and Temari had all caught up to Jiraiya who wasn't wasting time heading towards Naruto. Looking to his left, Jiraiya noticed Gai and Kakashi coming in fast.

"You felt it too, Kakashi?" The Sannin asked the man who appeared next to him.

"Yes. Do you have a plan Jiraiya-sama? We might have to seal it?"

"I'm sure we will, but even then I'm not sure the seal I used three years ago would even suffice."

Gai, who was on Jiraiya's right looked down, "Then there isn't anything we can do."

Sakura, who was behind them, was curious, "What are you all talking about? Kakashi-sensei you know something about Naruto don't you? Tell me!" She said in a demanding tone.

Shikamaru, who was looking dead ahead with a serious face spoke, "You will find out soon enough Sakura. All I will say is brace yourself for what you are about to discover."

Sakura was getting annoyed. She wanted to know what was happening to Naruto. Why was it so hard for them to tell her that, more importantly how was it that Shikamaru and Temari were more informed about Naruto then she was? She was the Hokage's student, she knew things that not even ANBU knew. Now thinking about it, she realized that everything about Naruto was top secret. All of his records were sealed, only the Hokage had access. Since this was true how come Shikamaru seemed to be clued into what was going on. More importantly, how did Temari, someone who wasn't even a Leaf shinobi know more about the situation then she did?

Jiraiya was thinking of ways to conceal the fox, reverting Naruto back to his regular form. "I could use the suppressor seal, but I would have to strengthen it. Kakashi and myself could do it. I wonder where Naiya is? I could use her right about now."

Turning to Kakashi, "You sealing abilities Kakashi…"

The sharingan eyed Jounin cut the sannin off mid sentence, "Are better then what they were when I was a kid. Besides that, I can copy the seals you form with my sharingan so synchronization isn't the issue."

Jiraiya was grateful for the sharingan right now. He wanted to create a barrier that would contain Naruto. If this could be done then they would have enough time to use that in conjunction with a suppression seal that would take him out the five-tails form.

The nine-tails… Jiraiya couldn't even imagine what would happen if the demon were to get free once again. It would be difficult to contain the demon once again. "Arashi…I hope your seal is strong enough… now I hope your son is strong enough or else, I might have to kill him if he goes too far. I'm sorry, but there is no alternative if I can't seal of the nine-tails."

Looking in the direction of the stadium, Jiraiya couldn't help but worry about Tsunade, "I hope you can hold on a little longer friend, don't die on me."

Everyone continued their trek towards Naruto.

The stadium…

The Hokage, a title given to the strongest shinobi within the Hidden Leaf Village, was never giving without reason and certainty. No one questioned the ability of the Hokage, they weren't Hokage for nothing. The Godaime Hokage, known throughout the world as one of the members Konoha's Legendary Sannin, was showing why she deserved the title.

But despite all of her efforts, Tsunade efforts were useless against a power like Aisu's. Standing before the Hokage, who was breathing hard, Aisu extended his sword out to his side then brought it slowly in front of him.

"You are reaching your limit, Tsunade. I can see it in your breathing, your strikes have declined in force, and your body language is telling me you can't go on. All of this tells me one thing… and that is you have lost." Aisu didn't even wear a smile as he spoke his summation of the situation.

Tsunade cracked her knuckles, "At my limit? You really think I'm at my limit? Well I'll show you who's at their limit."

Leaving her spot and appearing in front of him in an instant, she brought forth her fist with the necessary force to take him down. Before the fist could make contact with Aisu's face, it was blocked by 'Dragon's Fang'. Tsunade winced went unnoticed to Aisu, but she now felt pain surge through her balled up hand.

Quickly moving behind Aisu, she went to place a punch in his back but this was also block by the Dragon's Fang that he held over his back. Giving her a side-glance, Tsunade's eyes widen when she realized she had to move immediately.

Jumping back, she saw a slash with a black fire trail. Had that technique connected it would have tore her in half. Landing after jumping a few yards back, it only took a few seconds till she fell to her knees. The pain she felt in her abdomen let her know that she had failed in avoiding the attack.

Holding her stomach with a grimace on her face, she looked into Aisu unemotional eyes. "I wasn't even able to follow his movement. His movement have slowly increased. Was he playing with me from the beginning? I'm not out of this yet, I still have more to give."

Aisu begin to speak, "Tsunade what happen to your speed and the power of your attacks? Is this all you have to show me? Surely this isn't all of your power? If it is then so be it"

Aisu disappeared from everyone's view. Appearing on Tsunade's right, he brought his sword, with his right hand, down with extreme force. The strike was aimed at the head of the beloved Godaime. Tsunade may have been injured, but not to the point where she couldn't block the strike, which she did by bringing her arms overhead into an "X", shielding herself. She succeeds in her attempt to protect her life, but she failed in her attempt to block without receiving injury. A cut formed on both forearms that were used to shield from the strike.

Aisu face was blank, the way he was looking at Tsunade was eerily scary. His eyes showed no emotion, they were lifeless. Seeing those eyes she knew that she couldn't let him live. She had seen them many times before. She saw those eyes in every shinobi that killed anyone for power, she saw it in her teammate, Orochimaru, and now she has seen it in Aisu; The man that has been responsible for all of this mayhem.

Tsunade couldn't let him get away… she just couldn't. Grabbing hold of the sword that rested on her for arms, she pulled Aisu forth by tugging on his sword. When his face got within striking distance, Tsunade cock her balled fist back and launched a punch that made contact with Aisu's jaw. The strike was loud enough that everyone in the stadium took notice and heard it.

Not to mention that the strike made Aisu airborne sending him into the wall of the stadium. Upon making contact with the wall, the impact created a small cloud of dust. Tsunade was huffy and puffing. Her wobbly knees buckled under her and she fell to her knees, using her hands to catch her from falling flat on her face.

"This jutsu… it seems that I'm running out of energy. This should have been enough to finish him off. The 'SouseikiHokyoukonki' I have created was done with the intention to face all foes… To meet someone who can stand up to me without Heaven's blade or a Jinchuuriki is truly amazing in itself. What I am saying is he has the Dragon contract and the 'Dragon's Claw', this should be no surprise but even so… his strength is unbelievable." Tsuande was in awe by Aisu's abilities.

The youthful looking Hokage's eyes widened when he appeared behind her. With the sword that was in his right hand extended to the far left, so much so that his forearm bicep was covering his mouth, Tsunade knew that this was the end. She didn't have enough time to counter, she was done for.

Or so she thought.

Aisu's blade didn't connect with Tsunade's neck; it connected with a stainless steal blade. The semi shock expression on Aisu's face revealed that he had not anticipated anyone stopping him, let alone Shinji.

Applying force, Shinji pushed Aisu back a few feet away from Tsunade. Kurenai and Asuma both landed in the ring next to Tsunade. Shinji's eyes were fixed on Aisu but his words were directed to Kurenai and Asuma, "Get her out of here, she is finished."

When Asuma went to help she slapped away his hand and struggled to her feet, "what the hell do you mean I'm done for you brat? I'm just getting started."

"Cut the act Tsuande, you are not in the physical condition to continue; Anymore and it would be suicide besides… he's going to pay for what he did to my family." Shinji's eyes were now blue as the morning sky. The thin sky-blue outline along with the eyes was indicators that Shinji had activated 'Naiteki Reikon'.

Aisu wasn't really interested in the boy. It did really matter in his opinion; he would crush him and then kill her. But he had something else in mind, he would play around with the boy for a little then he would crush Tsunade.

Hiyakaka watched as the Minashu charge without hesitation. Shinji's stainless steal blade was aimed at Aisu's head, but was effortlessly stopped short by the Raikage's sword.

Tsunade, who was now standing, balled her fist with her remaining strength. Speaking so only Kurenai and Asuma could hear, "You two get out of here. I will end this with one blow."

"Hokage-sama, you are worn and it isn't a wise decision to keep…"

Tsunade's glare stopped Kurenai from finishing what she was about to say. She was going stop him, this was her fight. Due to a lack of strength, Tsunade fell back to her knees.

Kurenai went to help her but Asuma held his arm out to hold her back, "Don't, she has to do this. As shinobi we have to respect her decision even if we are against it. She is the Hokage, it is her job to protect the village even at the cost of her life, and you know this."

Kurenai put her head down, "I do but… we will not only lose a Hokage, for some a mother will be lost if she continues."

Asuma turned to see his friend in the barrier, "That may be true but it is the price that a shinobi can possibly pay when putting their life in harms way. She knew the risk and even now she doesn't seem to regret her decision."

In the stands…

Konohamaru was in awe of Shinji's power. With his eyes glued to the sword duel between the two, he spoke with amazement in his voice "That guy… I can't believe there are people this strong. I mean I knew Tsunade was strong but… there really is a major difference in the levels of Kage and the other tier of shinobi."

Genma was watching closely. He noticed the transformation, "It seems our friend has transformed slightly."

"He's activated 'Naiteki Reikon'" everyone turned to Hayami who was just as glued to the fight as Konohamaru.

"Naiteki Reikon? What is that?" Genma questioned.

"It is my family's blood-line limit. Father once told me that we have two spirits… our regular one and our fighting one. When Naiteki Reikon is activated, our spirit works in conjunction with our fighting spirit, thus doubling, tripling, or even quadrupling the power of the person who uses it. In my clan, there weren't that many that could use it. I know for a fact That Father and Shinji-nii's 'Naiteki Reikon' form exceeds everyone elses by far." Hayami explained.

Hanabi's words hit everyone with the cold hard truth, "He doesn't stand a chance against Aisu."

Hayami turned to Hanabi and went on the defensive, "Shinji-nii does stand a chance, and he will win for sure. He is as strong as father and Naruto-niisan. Shinji-nii will win for sure."

Konohamaru pumped his fist in the air, "Hell yea, that's the spirit Hayami. Your cousin is great, no way he will lose."

Hanabi's eyes narrowed at the boy she cared for deeply, "Why are you lying to her? You know as well as I do that Shinji doesn't stand a chance at all."

Hayami protested, "Shinji-nii will win he's really strong. He won't…"

Hinata's voice drew everyone into her, "Shinji… doesn't stand a chance. I wish he was strong enough but he's letting his pride get in the way of him from seeing that. I want to help him but this is his decision, not mine. I think he knows he doesn't stand a chance, but he is without a doubt the only person here besides Tsuande and Senzairu who has a remote chance against Aisu."

Hayami started to get worried. She grab the metal rail and watched her cousin fight the man who killed her father, "Shinji-nii, don't die."

Konohamaru turned to Rin who was kneeling on the floor tending to Yumi, "Is she okay?"

Rin who was looking at the girl grimacing, "I don't know. That depends on Naruto."

"How so?" Konohamaru asked.

Asuma and Kurenai landed next to Konohamaru. Asuma answered, "It's obvious… they are connected, that is why she feels his pain."

Genma observed the girl then commented, "If that's the case, Naruto must be going through hell."

Hayami heard Naruto's name and turned to Genma, "What is going on with Naruto-niisan?"

Konohamaru placed a hand on her shoulder, "Nothing. Naruto-niisan is strong and he is alright."

Makeinu chimed in, "That guy is strong that much is true. I can't believe what he did. I mean he just disappeared, reappeared, and disappeared it was like that guy couldn't be beat. I see why he's feared. I want to be strong like that guy, he's awesome."

"I'm sure Neji-niisan could take him, no question." Ranpu said putting in his two cent.

"No way, did you see what he did? That guy took down all of those shinobi; I don't think that Neji guy could do that. He loses easy." Makeinu said.

Ranpu was getting frustrated, "Neji-niisan crushes that guy."

Hinata's slight giggle caused the two boys to turn to her. When their attention was hers completely, she decided to inform them of what transpired six years ago "Actually, Naruto and Neji fought before. It was close but in the end… Naruto was the victor."

Makeinu pointed his hand in his face and started laughing, "Ha, told ya."

Ranpu turned away ignoring Makeinu to look back down at the fight.

The Battle Field…

Shinji sword clashed against Aisu's black blade. The Raikage forced him back with his sword. Shinji flew back a few feet. When he landed, he disappeared in that instant. Had he not disappear, the sword would have split him in two from the waist. The last male member of the Minashu clan appeared above the raven haired Raikage striking with great force behind the swing. Raising his sword above his head with one hand, he shielded himself from the attack. With his sword, he sent Shinji heading toward his right.

Landing on his feet, he wasted no time in disappearing from view once more. This time he appeared in front of Aisu. With his left hand touching the ground and his right sword extended to the right, he performed a diagonal swing with as much power as he could muster.

Everyone was shocked when Aisu caught the blade with his hand. The initial shock caused the Naiteki Reikon user eyes to widen. Holding eye contact, Aisu spoke, "You are pretty fast and you seem to have your Naiteki Reikon mastered. You truly are the Legendary Shinshiro's kid and I don't doubt that you would have surpassed your uncle and father however..."

Letting go of his sword as quickly as possible to jump back, he realized that Aisu was planning to cut him half. He did avoid the slash… but he wasn't so 1ucky in avoiding injury. Blood exploded from the large gash on his chest. Falling to his knees, the Naiteki Reikon faded and his normal eye color returned. Aisu pointed his sword at Shinji. A black flame with a dragon head shot from the sword at Shinji with every intent on killing him dead. Shinji, who was conscious but in too much pain to move was waiting for the end.

A large wall with strange carvings appeared out of nowhere directly in front of Shinji shielding him from the attack. Aisu's eyes shifted to his right as he caught Tsuande standing a few yards away.

Tsunade still had Souseiki Hokyoukonki activated. She was standing but was drained of energy and fatigued. Tsunade was ready to fight. She addressed the younger shinobi, "Aisu… this has gone on long enough, and I will stop you."

He couldn't help but laugh, "Stop me… Ha ha. You will die; I'm done with this ridiculous fight. You really never had a chance against me."

Materializing in front of Tsunade with both of his hands gripping the handle of the sword, he swung the blade that Tsunade blocked by raising here forearm. Her eyes peered into his soul. He could now see the determination renewed. That still wouldn't help her. Using the open that was created, her fist was aimed at Aisu's jaw. That fist never connected and he faded away from view.

Inches away on the ground, two dragons broke through the earth and came at Tsunade from both sides. She used her remaining energy to jump in the air and the dragons followed her as she went up. Performing a front flip she avoided the dragon that was in front of her. She then executed a 180 spin then leant back slightly to avoid the dragon that was behind her. Her eyes went wide as a presence appeared behind her. Turning around as quick as she could, the Godaime was only able to shield herself from the vicious kick that sent her to the opposite side of the stadium, where some of the fans where still lying unconscious.

"Shit, at this speed and the force in which he kicked my body, he'll cause that whole area to collapse. I have to stop myself but I can't move" Tsunade didn't have to worry about the fans, she had herself to worry about, seeing as he appeared above her and placed a kick to her head, sending her down to the ground.

Her body left a small crater in the ground below. Hiyakaya landed a couple yards away. He placed his sword back in its sheath and slowly walked toward Tsuande. She climbed out of the crater breathing heavy. She turned her head to meet his eyes. She could see him in the distance. "Shit… I don't know how long I can keep this up." She had no clue how long it would be but one thing was for certain, she wasn't going down without a fight.

Outside of the Village…

Sasuke watched as Naruto was struggling to keep the nine-tails at bay. He didn't want to interfere but he was certain that he would have no choice but to do so. He knew that his best chance was now. He could sense people closing in and from the chakra signatures, he already knew who they were and their purpose. Sasuke, who was standing a distance away along with Gaara, Matsuri, and Kankerou, left them and appeared in front of Naruto.

Before Gaara could act, Sasuke threw two kunai in both hands to the ground forming a box perimeter around himself and Naruto.

Gaara appeared in front of the barrier, "What is the meaning of this Uchiha Sasuske?"

"It's quite simple; I'm going to stop him."

"You…"

"Quiet! I'm not going to kill him; actually I'm not going to do anything right now. The fact of the matter is we will have company soon and well... let's just say the sharingan is more then what you or anyone could ever perceive it to be." Sasuke didn't care if Gaara understood. He knew that at this point he was the only that could stop Naruto.

It didn't take long for Kakashi to appear along side with Sakura Jiraiya, Temari, Anko, and Shikamaru. Everyone gathered around the barrier. Jiraiya was livid; he wondered what were the intentions of the Uchiha, "Sasuke, what is the meaning of this?"

"I already told Gaara, I am the only who can stop him."

Kakashi had to question why he didn't, "So why didn't you?"

"This is his battle… it will only become mines when he becomes a threat." Sasuke informed his former jounin sensei.

Neji, Shino, Ino, Tenten, Lee, and Kiba appeared and gathered next to everyone.

Shino spoke, "So it seems he has transformed."

Sakura who was listing to everyone talk like they knew what was going on had enough; she needed to know, "What is going on here? Why does Naruto look like a miniature fox?"

"Are you so blind that you can't figure out why girl." Everyone looked up to see Naiya sitting on the barrier.

Jiraiya smiled, "Great, you're here. Let me break this barrier so we can seal him off."

"Not a wise decision." Everyone turned around to see a female Mist shinobi.

They all ready themselves but Naiya appeared in front of them. "She's not the enemy."

"How can you be so sure" Gaara asked.

"Because… she's my daughter" Shock was shown by everyone except Jiraiya, Gai, and Kakashi, who knew her reason for retiring as a Leaf Shinobi.

Safaia continued as she walked up to the barrier, "Interfering is not something you would want to do."

Neji was curious to why, "Why not? We have to stop him before he loses control."

"Exactly, this is why Uchiha Sasuke is probably the best solution."

Sasuke turned to the girl, "So I see you are familiar with the sharingan and its ability. I'm curious to know how that's possible."

"Much like Gaara and Naruto… I also have a Bijuu within me."

Her last three words resonated with the uninformed Rookies.

"Naruto has a demon inside of him?" Tenten asked not really expecting to receive and answer.

"How come we didn't know this?" Kiba questioned.

Sakura who was looking at the ground in shock mind went on a little trip to the past. Everything about Naruto started to make sense. Getting kicked out of shops for no reason, the hateful glares, and the fact all of the adults called him a good for nothing demon. Her own mother was angry when she informed her that Naruto was a member of her team. Now it was all clear.

It was because he had the nine-tails inside of him.

Sakura turned to Kakashi, "Kakashi-sensei, the stories we were told about the nine-tails were false."

Kakashi nodded. Neji addressed Sakura, "There is a reason why we weren't told this."

Shikamaru decided to explain so he interjected, "More specifically, it was to give Naruto a chance at a peaceful life. However… with all of the hate he had accumulated from the older, bitter generation, it trickled down to the youth. So in turn what did he do?"

Shino picked up where Shikamaru left off, "He became the class clown, seeking attention by any means, and even it was negative. To become Hokage… was his dream."

Sasuke, who was now looking at Naruto addressed Sakura, "Hokage is a title that is giving to the most gifted, the most talented, the bravest, and the most respected shinobi. Being Hokage was more than just being able to protect his home… it was a way that would help him reach his ultimate goal, which was acceptance. Bonds… he holds on to them with everything because at the end that's all anyone really has. Naruto grew up without any; he was alone from the beginning. So to have a dream such as that in a village where that dream is impossible made me respect him as a shinobi and a person, even though I thought he was an idiot. He had every reason to turn out like Gaara, but he didn't. Instead he continues to form bonds which he holds onto. Yumi, Mai, Hayami, Jiraiya, Naiya, Tsunade, Kakashi, Team 10, Team 8, Gai's group, you, and even me, these bonds have made him stronger."

Jiraiya addressed Sasuke, "You're sharingan has to be on a level of …"

Sasuke tilted his head and smirked, "Exactly."

"What is so special about the sharingan other than its ability to copy techniques?" Kiba questioned.

Shino, Ino, Neji, Tenten, Gaara, Temari, and Shikamaru were all curious. Kakashi felt he should explain.

"The sharingan eye has many abilities. The most common known is the ability to copy all jutsu types, see through all genjutsu, use genjutsu, and insight. What most people don't know is that the sharingan has the ability to do much more. For this particular situation, Sasuke is the only one who can stop the nine-tails from releasing; his sharingan has the ability to suppress bijuu. More particular..."

"The evolution of sharingan eye is rooted in a dark and secretive past. There is so much to the power and the abilities within that eye. Uchiha Sasuke's potential far exceeds any sharingan user to date. Not even Itachi's potential went as far as Sasuke's and that's saying a lot considering how gifted he was and why Akatsuki recruited him in the first place." Jiraiya informed the group.

"So Kakashi-sensei also has the ability to stop Naruto as well since he has the sharingan?" Sakura wondered.

Safaia answered, "Hatake Kakashi acquired his Sharingan in an unnatural way. He wasn't born into the Uchiha so he will never gain the full scope of abilities that are granted to a true heir of the Uchiha."

Everyone's attention was diverted to Naruto who started to scream. Jiraiya was slightly on edge, "This isn't good this is exactly what happened before he went to six-tails."

Sasuke looked at Naruto with his sharingan active. The sharingan met with sinister red eyes. Sasuke continued to look deep into the boy's eye.

Inside Naruto's Mind…

Naruto was sent flying through the bars, crashing on the wet ground of the sewer hall. A chakra manifesting of the nine-tails appeared in front of him. Smiling "Uzumaki Naruto you are pathetic and too weak. I am going to kill you and take this body of yours. But before I do that, I will make you suffer as much as your pathetic father has made me suffer."

Raising his chakra paw Naruto used his elbow to brace himself from the attack that was coming. There was no way he could avoid it. He was a little surprised to see that Sasuke had appeared and moved him out of harms way.

Naruto looked up at Sasuke who was kneeling down near him, "What are you doing here Sasuke?"

"To stop you from going AWOL. A six-tail is forming on the outside. Not quite there yet but its getting there. Don't worry though; I will handle the fox so just rest.

Kyuubi's eyes shifted to his left, when he saw Sasuke, "Who are you and how did you get here?"

Sasuke, who was kneeling down met the nine-tails gaze, "Uchiha Sasuke and you are the nine-tails I presume."

"Uchiha… to get to a place like this you must truly be gifted. That's the power of that accursed sharingan and that forsaken bloodline of yours."

"So I can assume you have gazed into these eyes before." Sasuke said.

"Eyes with such power and chakra more sinister than my own… Not at all unlike what I saw once in a certain Uchiha Madara" The Kyuubi informed Sasuke.

"Hmph, then you know the power and the abilities that come with the sharingan. Well its time to end this."

Kyuubi laughed at the Uchiha, "End what? You will be only delaying the inevitable. If you suppress me now I will only continue until I have control over this weak vessel."

"For once, I agree with Kitsune." A new voice caused Naruto and Sasuke to look back.

Naruto recognized this person, it was … himself again. Naruto's alter ego, who was wearing the same clothes as Naruto, just a different color variation, red and black to be exact, walked toward the group.

Kyuubi eyes narrowed and a frown appeared on his face, "You… so you're here as well. Taking on the form of that bastard kid, think I wouldn't recognize you."

"Longtime Kyuubi, don't tell me that there is still a grudge. I see that arm of yours grew back." said Naruto's doppelganger.

"First that Uchiha brat who has even more potential then Uchiha Madara and now you, the spirit trapped within 'Heaven's Blade'. Well you both are too late."

Sasuke's sharingan was spinning fiercely. He was inching his hand to Kusenagi but the doppelganger grabbed his hand.

"Sorry Uchiha Sasuke, but this isn't your fight, its Naruto's." Sasuke looked into the eyes of the man, but he didn't hold the gaze for too long. A shockwave of pain sent him to his knees. He slowly faded away from realm of Naruto's mind.

On the outside…

Sasuke fell to his knees and started breathing hard. "What the hell happened?"

Jiraiya yelled out, "Sasuke… Sasuke what the hell happened? Did you stop him?"

Speaking in between breaths, "I couldn't… the sword… the sword rejected me."

Kakashi wondered what he was talking about. "The sword… what are you talking about Sasuke, you're not making any sense."

Sasuke pointed to the blade that rested in the ground in front of Kyuubi-fied Naruto. "That blade… the spirit… it forced me out. And even now… I can't get back in."

"So Naruto is on his own?" Sakura asked out of concern.

"So it would seem." Kakashi said. Everyone watched Naruto to see what was to become of him.

Sasuke glanced at his formed teammate, "You're on your own Naruto."

Inside Naruto's mind…

The doppelganger, or the sword spirit gazed at the injured Naruto. "Get up. You come this far just to be beaten by the nine-tail, who is sealed within you. That should say something Naruto. Out of tons of infants in Konoha, you were chosen and out million in the world, I entrusted you with me. The trials were obstacles that you overcame with the greatest of ease, this is no different. Stand Naruto, you aren't a weakling."

Naruto slowly picked himself up off of the ground. He glanced at the spirit of the sword and smirked, "You know… you suck as a motivational speaker. Either way, don't quit your day job."

"I see we're ready to fight."

Naruto nodded, "I never stopped."

Turning to the Kyuubi, Naruto gave the chakra manifestation of the Fox a hateful glare. "You bastard fox. I will show what happens when you bite the hand the shelters you."

"Boy, show me. Show me how weak of a vessel you are. Show me that without me you are nothing. Show me Naruto." Kyuubi threw out the challenge.

"I'm starting to understand little by little. Why I was chosen by my father, why I was entrusted with the responsibility to wield 'The Sword of the Heavens'. I now know the reason for it all." Blue chakra started to leak from Naruto.

The doppelganger smiled at the man he looked like, "So it would seem you are starting to understand who you are and accept it. Good, now you can show this fox your true strength."

The sword spirit raised his hand in front of his body. Small particles started to form in front his hand, this continued until a familiar looking sword appeared. Grabbing the handled of the sword, he planned to toss it to Naruto but he told him to hold onto it.

The Fox wasn't happy by this at all, "You fool. When I'm done with you you're going to be begging for that damned blade. Time for you to die."

Raising his Chakra paw a strong swipe was made and was aimed at Naruto's right side. Naruto raised his hand and when the paw got close but an invisible shield stopped it. The Kyuubi wondered what happened. He believed that the sword was the culprit.

"Using a power that isn't yours again, you are good for that Naruto. See you are drawing your power from that sword to stop me. You are pathetic."

Raising his head slowly and giving the nine-tails a serious gaze, "Actually the sword had nothing to do with me stopping you. I told you I understand the reason why I was selected. It wasn't because I was weak; it was because I was strong. Kouen was right about one thing, control… is what I determine it."

"Shit, he figured it out. I have to take control before I lose my chance."Kyuubi thought with a little fear, not of Naruto, but of losing.

Using one of his tails as a weapon, he swung it at Naruto, but again, it was stopped before it hit Naruto's face. The boy smiled, "Control… yours goes as far as I allow it. My fear of being controlled and my fear of losing control, made me forget that control was mine to begin with. You … your power… are now mine. You can't stop me and you never could. Kyuubi you say I was weak but the fact of the matter is you have always been depended on me. So who is weak?"

"You little shit you will…"

Naruto stopped him from finishing, "Enough!" The Kyuubi's left arm exploded, causing the manifestation to fall off his left shoulder. He then aimed his right hand at the nine-tail's right chakra arm, causing it to explode. Raising his left hand he took out the left leg and he did the same thing with the right hand and the right leg.

Kyuubi glared at the boy, "You need me you bastard. You will never be able to control my power. Never, you are too weak."

Naruto walked toward the nine-tails who struck at him with his tails. The first tail dissolved as it came down on Naruto. The same happened to the second tail, and the third tail, the fourth-tail… the fifth-tail… the sixth-tail… the seventh-tail… the eighth-tail, and when the nine-tail came down, Naruto was standing face to face with the nine-tails.

"You have been the bane of my existence since the day you were placed in me. I always saw you as a negative, you have always wrecked havoc everywhere you went, you use your power to cause pain. You were ruthless and did what you wanted because you were stronger. Well I am stronger, so I will do what I want with your power and show you the same mercy that you have shown everyone else, which was none. I will use your power however I see fit. Stop me if you dare."

The Kyuubi went to bite Naruto but his head exploded into chakra particles. The real nine-tails behind the cage appeared at the gate "So you can suppress my chakra manifestation. You still can't stop me. Release the seal and then show me how strong you are."

Naruto bought his hands together and closed his eyes. When he opened them instantly, the nine-tails behind him was forced to the ground. He cursed Naruto, "You son of a bitch, how dare you?"

Naruto's expression showed no emotion at all, "I told you… I am in control. As long as you are within me, you have no control. I am in control. Not you, weakling."

That word set the kyuubi off but he was still pinned to the floor. The Kyuubi let out a loud scream, "Mark my words kit, when I get free I will make you suffer."

A brick wall was forming in front of the cage. Before the brick wall completely sealed, the Kyuubi spoke, "Don't think this is over boy. I will become free, that much you can bank on." Bricks formed until the Kyuubi was gone from view.

Naruto took in a deep breath. The doppelganger voice caused him to turn his head, "Well done Naruto, but I'm curious. Why didn't you want use the sword?"

"There was no need. I had control all along, this is my subconscious which means I am the King here, what I say goes. The fact I didn't realize that sooner was the reason I couldn't control the power of the nine-tails. But I'm curious… you are the spirit of the sword?"

"Yes, I am. To be more specific, you can say I am Heaven's Blade." The spirit of Heaven's blade informed him.

"So why do you look like me?" Naruto asked.

"I don't. My appearance is what you see because you are not ready to see me yet; but when you are ready, you will see how I truly look." The doppelganger informed the young man.

"Well I guess we will be getting to know each other after all. Well I guess I better return and help baa-chan" Before Naruto could come back to real world, the spirit of the sword placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Before you go here is a present." Grabbing the tip of the blade, the spirit grinned at Naruto. The clone, the sword, and Naruto all started glowing. Naruto couldn't believe the power that he was feeling, he felt stronger then he did when he was in his five-tail form.

When the glow faded from both the sword and the clone, Naruto could still see the white glow covering him from head to toe. He scanned his body then he looked at the spirit, "What did you do? Did you transfer your powers to me ?"

"Naruto, you really have no clue of what you are capable of. You're not the only one though, most humans have no idea. Haven't you ever heard the saying that the human spirit is the strongest thing a person can have? This isn't my power, this is your power. I just merely released a fraction of your true potential. Do understand now?"

Naruto shook his head, "Not really, but does it matter? The fact is I can use this to protect Hayami, Yumi, and everyone."

The spirit slapped his head," You are an idiot but I guess you will understand when you start to utilize me. At least you understand why I have selected you. Naruto, this world needs a champion. There is one for every generation. I don't select just anyone to wield me Naruto, I choose the candidate I feel is worthy. You have proven your worth; now show the world your strength with me at your side. I will guide you and I will do your bidding as long as it is in the name of justice. So as long you draw me in the name of justice you will never have to fear anything or worry about losing."

"Even without you, I don't plan on losing and as for fear… well I pretty much got over that hurdle. So I guess the only thing left is to take down the Raikage. I think it's time to end this war."

"Before you go know one thing though, you cannot wield me while drawing the power of the nine-tails. I say this to you because our powers are not compatible. His is of the demonic nature and mine are of the divine nature. If you tried to use me while drawing nine-tails, nothing will happen. You would be fighting with a regular sword. If you are using the sword and try to draw the nine-tails the nine-tails power won't come forth. Do you understand?" The clone asked.

Naruto nodded, "Yes."

"Good, now get out of here. Remember what I said Naruto, I'm by your side." Touching the boys head Naruto started to see everything fade from view until he was back in the real world looking at the ground.

On the Outside…

Everyone watched as Naruto started to slowly revert to his normal form. Sasuke, who was still inside the barrier with Naruto, along with everyone else could feel the power die down. "So he stopped him. And his power is…"

Safaia who was standing on the outside of the barrier observe Naruto. The sound of her voice grab everyone's attention, "It seems that Naruto has won his battle with the nine-tails. He now has total control of his bijuu powers and abilities. But that's not even the good news… the good news is that there is someone who can possibly stop Aisu, his power has just increased exponentially."

Naruto slowly rose to his feet. Looking around, he could see everyone staring at him. He noticed that he was trapped in a barrier with Sasuke, but it came down when Sasuke dispelled it with a hand sign.

Everyone walked up to Naruto, who was now back completely to his regular form. Sakura was the first to ask, "Naruto are you okay?"

"I'm better then I've ever been Sakura." He said with a smile.

Sasuke noticed the confidence and the leap in power. Jealous no… envious… a little, motivated… always, admiring his former teammate's strength… without a doubt. Uchiha Sasuke directed his comment to Naruto, "I see you beat that fox. You lucky I didn't kick his ass, but I suppose weaklings can do almost anything nowadays."

Naruto returned the smirk that Sasuke gave him, "You're right, who would ever though a weakling like you could defeat that Cadaan guy, I guess miracles do happen."

The former teammates smiled at each other after exchanging witty sarcasm with one another.

Jiraiya was the next to speak, "How did you do it Naruto?"

"Easier than you think Ero-sennin."

"You had to fight your demon in a one on one battle, correct?" Naruto turned to a girl he had never seen before. He immediately noticed the Mist head band and the face looked familiar, almost like Naiya's but he wasn't sure if they were related.

To answer her question he shook his head, "Yes, how did you guess?"

"So it was the same for you as it was for me?" Everyone was following the conversation between the two.

Gaara interjected, "Which Jinchuuriki?"

"The eight-tails is sealed within me. I'm sure we went through different things but you did have to fight. Not as hard as you thought?" She asked.

He shook his head, "Not hard at all. If you don't mind me asking, what the hell is a shinobi of the Mist doing here; you do know you are the enemy?"

"I am no enemy of yours Uzumaki Naruto. The only reason I came was to stop you in case you loss control. You losing control would have been a catastrophe. I will be heading back to my village." She turned and walked away from the group.

"Just make sure you protect my mother." Before he could ask her who her mother was, she disappeared.

Naruto scratched his head, "Her mother… what the hell was that girl talking about and who the hell her mother is?"

Naiya stepped forth, "I am."

"You!" Naruto said surprised by it all.

"Wait a minute… you were a Leaf shinobi and your daughter is a Mist shinobi how can that…. OH MY GOD, YOU AND KAITO SENSEI HAVE A DAUGHTER!" Naruto yelled out.

Shikamaru whispered to Temari, "He sure is a fast one."

"I know, you would think he would have picked that one up instantly." Temari said.

Neji who wore a smirk shook his head with closed eyes, "It can't be helped, and I guess some things never change."

Back at the Stadium…

While Naruto and company were talking, Tsunade was in the fight of her life. Actually Aisu was toying with her. A kick to the face sent her skidding across the floor. The Raikage walked toward her slowly.

In the stands, Yumi's pain went away. She stood up, with the support of Rin and Iruka. Everyone turned to see Tsunade go all out. It was painful to watch her get beat to a pulp. Hayami who was holding on to the railing had tears coming down her eyes, "Tsunade-sama, Shinji-nii, somebody help them. Why won't anyone help them?"

For the first time in a longtime, Konohamaru responded in a serious tone, "To help them would show great disrespect to them besides… they wouldn't want us to. Tsunade-sama is fighting for all of us, the least we can do is respect that."

Hayami closed her tear filled eyes and looked away but Konohamaru's voice didn't go unheard, "Open your eyes and watch this. You will respect her for what she is doing. Pay homage to what she is doing."

Hayami didn't want to watch but she continued to through tear filled eyes. "Tsunade-sama… Shinji-nii… don't die. Please don't die."

In the barrier, Senzairu was thinking the same thing. He was watching his mother get humiliated. Aisu was just adding insult to injury. Every blow was a blow to Senzairu himself. He wished he could help her but he was useless. His mother was going to die and it was all because he made the mistake of acting on his emotions. He forgot that shinobi rule, bury all emotions. He continued to watch the onslaught.

Tsunade who just landed on the ground picked herself up. She charged at Aisu and punched at his face, but it sailed past the younger man, who grabbed her wrist and slammed her into the floor. He slowly picked her up by her long blond locks. Holding her by her head in one hand, Aisu punched her hard in the face. He punched her again, and again and again. Tsunade's head was moving back and forth at a fast pace. She knew that she was going to lose the fight and more.

It was just a matter of time. Aisu didn't even drop her when he was done, He flung her like she was worthless. When Tsunade hit the ground, the red glow around her finally died down. She slowly struggled to her knees.

Aisu smiled, "I see your technique has died down. You fought well Tsunade, worthy of the title Hokage. That jutsu of yours acted as a shield and power boost. I noticed the extra power increase in your attacks and the fact that you stopped my blow let me know that it was also a force field of some type. However, every blow with my sword weakened the technique. Had you fought any other shinobi you would have taken them down with no problem."

Outside of the Village…

Naruto, who was standing in front of 'Heaven's Blade', grabbed it from of the ground. When he heard a voice yelling out.

"She needs you!"Naruto heard a voice in his head. He ignored everyone around him talking, he was too focusing on Tsuande's fading chakra signature and the voice that told him she needed him.

Naruto looked at Sakura, "She is a medical nin. I will take her with me."

Sasuke was the only one to notice Naruto's facial expression change. When the blonde turned in the direction of Konoha, Sasuke put two and two together instantly, "Tsunade's chakra is low. I see what you're planning."

Jiraiya decided to say to Naruto, "We should head back to the village…"

Naruto didn't hesitate when he grabbed Sakura's arm, he just said, "Baa-chan is in danger."

Before he teleported with Sakura, he noticed Sasuke's hand on his right shoulder. Naruto didn't have time to waste, he just teleported his two former teammates and himself to Tsunade's location.

Jiraiya cursed the boy, "Damn it, he could have warned us. How the hell did Sasuke know he was going to teleport."

Shino spoke, "Though they hate one another… it seems that they know each other better than anyone else. Teammates usually know these things."

Kakashi smiled under his mask, "Seems like Team 7 is actually acting like a team for once."

Gaara didn't even bother saying a word; he took off towards the stadium. Naiya did so as well. Everyone took off in hopes of catching up with Naruto and his group.

In the Stadium…

Everyone watched as Aisu drew his sword. Holding it high above his head, he gave one glance at Senzairu before turning back to Tsuande. "You are truly a worthy shinobi Tsunade. The world needs more like you. Sorry, but if you aren't a part of the solution then you are the problem."

Bringing his sword down on Tsunade, time stood still. Everything was in slow motion. The blade descended slowly toward the Hokage's head.

Hayami tears were visible, Senzairu eyes showed fear, and everyone's eyes showed sadness. Asuma and the others knew that it was the end of an era. Tsunade's death would hurt everyone. It would be just as bad as his fathers. He didn't want to think like that but he watched as the blade came closer to slicing off her head.

Tsunade resigned to her fate closed her eyes and waited for her death to come. She only wished that she had more time with Senzairu and that she could say sorry to Naruto. She cared for the boy more than he knew. Senzairu would be devastated but she did what she had to, she did what any mother would do to protect her son… no her children, which was everyone in the village. She would give her life for theirs. "Naruto…Senzairu... I'm sorry."

A bright yellow flash appeared to the view of all in the stadium.

Tsunade was awaiting her death. She wondered why it was taking so long when a familiar voice said, "Damn baa-chan, you look like shit. I can't believe I'm saving your ass again, some Hokage."

Struggling to open her eyes, through a fully closed left eye due to the swelling and her right slightly shut, she saw Naruto with his back towards Aisu. He used his sword to stop the blade that would have claimed her life. She noticed Sasuke standing in a defensive position on her right, with his blade drawn. She then saw Sakura kneeling on her left.

Senzairu couldn't have been happier to see Naruto. Hayami was happy as well, along with Yumi and the others. Hayami thoughts were "Naruto-niisan!"

Asuma pulled out another cigarette, lit it, and took a long puff, "I'm too old for this."

Hinata smiled, "Naruto-kun."

Konohamaru yelled out, "Hell yeah, kick his ass bro!"

Naruto spoke again to Tsunade, "Rest baa-chan, I got it from here." Tilting his head toward Aisu Naruto spoke, "I have my own issues with you. Whatever issues you had with Tsunade you can take them up with me."

Aisu smiled at the young boy, "don't worry, I will."

Sasuke jumped away when Naruto turned around completely and applied force to his blade. Using his power, he pushed Aisu back about 20 yards with his sword. The Raikage landed on his feet unaffected by the display of power.

Naruto eyes never left Aisu when he addressed Sakura and Sasuke, "Sakura, heal baa-chan and Shinji, Sasuke you and everyone else should get these citizen out of the stadium."

Sakura grabbed Shinji and Tsunade before heading to where everyone was located.

Sasuke had something else in mind, "I can take care of that alone. You sure you can take this guy Naruto, if you can't I will be more than glad to take him."

"Sorry Sasuke, but this is my fight. Just make sure everyone is evacuated." Sasuke bit his thumb and summoned Three snakes, which he cast a genjutsu on instantly. Sasuke used the snakes to swallow up everyone in the stadium, except those that were conscious for the fight. Sasuke performed a jutsu teleporting the citizens away from the stadium. He then looked at Naruto from the top of the stadium wall. Nodding at his teammate, he disappeared from view courtesy of shunshin no jutsu.

Naruto turned his attention back to Aisu once Sasuke was gone and Sakura took both Shinji and Tsunade into the stands with the others.

Naruto gripped his sword, "Aisu…"

Heaven's Blade started to glow; Naruto had activated the first technique. The blade wasn't the only thing that was glowing, the white glow returned to Naruto's body. A strong gust of wind formed at the base on Naruto's feet and spread throughout the stadium.

Aisu felt Naruto's chakra level. He smiled, "So the wildcard turned out to be just that… a wildcard." The black flames around him rose and danced around his body. Both warriors' gaze met one another.

Naruto smiled showed his confidence. He was ready, he was going to win.

In the stands, Yumi was glad too see Naruto but that cold feeling she had about Aisu returned. Her facial expression showed how worried she was. "Naruto, please be careful, I have a bad feeling about this." She prayed that what she was feeling wouldn't come true. She didn't know if it would or not, but only time would tell.

A/N

The fight with Naruto and Aisu Finally begins. What will happen next? Tune in to find out.

Souseiki Hokyoukonki – Genesis Energy Reinforcement