Rasa's / Narrator's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
A large pale tan translucent barrier shimmered formed around the courtyard. The dome had capped off the arena, slicing through anything between it and the match. Kakashi nearly was cut in twain as it formed, slicing off the courtyard with a quiet hiss.
The barrier was see-through, only adding a slight tan tinge to the sights within. It shimmered every now and then, pulsating with chakra as it did. The entire thing had a presence, filling the surrounding air with a thick foul chakra.
Perhaps sensing something was amiss, Kakashi jumped to the rim, cutting off the audience from the courtyard. He stared at it incredulously before firing off several kunai and shuriken at speed most couldn't see. Each bounded off it harmlessly, not doing any noticeable damage. Kakashi nodded before he reached into one of his many pouches and removed a kunai with a tag tied to it. Like the others, he threw it, clearly showing it was a Fuijutsu tag. But like the other, the kunai bounced off the barrier, the tag not reacting in any way. Clearly, the man was frustrated; as he lowered his stance and braced his arm with his other. Chakra and lightning surged around his hand as he powered up the technique. Kakashi wasted no time; he blurred forward and slammed his creation into the dome. It fizzled out the instant it came into contact, having no effect whatsoever. Kakashi jumped back narrowly, avoiding coming into contact with the barrier.
"What on earth is that?!" A asked incredulously. "What purpose could this serve?"
"Perhaps a setup for an attack?" Onoki mused calmly.
"No." Rasa interrupted their musing stand at his feet and with a flex of chakra, grains of gold shimmered off him and condensed into a thick strand that flowed around him. Despite his calm facade, he felt a naked panic fill him. This may very well ruin everything! "Pakura!" He roared.
Pakura appeared suddenly, her green and orange hair bouncing at the speed. Her head bowed respectfully as she dutifully waited for her Kage order.
Rasa felt dread grow throughout his body. But perhaps he worried for no reason; if it didn't, it'd make it clear how much trouble this was to the others. Save Rasa some time, time that would possibly save this situation. Gaara had always been a wild card, but one Rasa had believed he had it entirely in hand. He would ensure he tightened the leash after this incident.
Assuming Gaara hadn't doomed them and started the next Great Ninja War.
"Pierce that barrier," Rasa ordered.
Pakura merely nodded.
Hiruzen and Mifune both rose from his left. Mifune had reason to ensure things went peacefully. His intervention had been expected. Hiruzen, as well, had his own soldier down there. But Rasa felt some panic when A rose as well. Surely A, sensed the potential for violence and never being one to avoid such was likely exciting. "Now!" He hurried Pakura along. The loyal woman nodded again grimly as she set her hands into a sign, ready to do his bidding. The Kage, up and moving, was suddenly blocked off by two massive walls of gold. Rasa flinched when A smashed a fist through, even more so when Hiruzen's staff and Mifune's blade did as well.
But his stall tactic worked. Pakura barked out her jutsu triumphantly. The woman was likely beyond pleased to be of use to him. Rasa watched with a smirk as her jutsu activated, ensuring his attempt was successful.
"Scorch Style: Twin Propulsive Blast!" Pakura called out desperately. Two orbs appeared under her foot, carrying her from the ground below them and starting to lift her up from the ground. An instant later, the orbs pulsated, and a small explosion sounded off. The entire arena shook as the two booms went off at this explosion. But Rasa paid no heed to it, watching as the twin explosions shot Pakura off like a rocket. Rapidly propelling Pakura toward the dome, she smiled as she drew close and began making more hand signs.
"Scorch Style: Great Steaming Explosive Blast!" Pakura roared; as she did, several orbs formed around her, merging into one giant that writhed with energy that seemed to heat the air around it. Steam snaked off of it and gave its surroundings an orange glow. "My Kazekage has ordered this barrier down, Gaara! You forget your place!" Pakura lectured. With that, she shoved her hands toward the barrier. Sending the giant orb spiraling toward the barrier. Several shinobi and samurai alike cried out in surprise and fury. But none of them could move to intercept it or stop it meaningfully. But it was clear such an action was seen as criminal.
Rasa would usually brace for such a powerful attack, but his suspicions were confirmed when the orb collided. Instead of the powerful, fiery, and sudden explosion it traditionally produced, it merely hissed as it seemed to fade into the barrier. Slowly but surely, it disappeared entirely into the barrier, even the heat and steam fading into it.
"Explain yourself!" Mifune roared as he marched in front of Rasa. His usually relaxed but stern face was not stretched and contorted by rage. He had not bothered to sheathe his katana. In fact, he had the point of the blade thrust squarely in Rasa's face. "The gall to interfere with this match, as a Kage no less! You may not simply act as you please because your blood battles below. To disrespect the rules so brazenly is a mark on our very honor! You'll find we extract quite the toll for such insolence!"
He likely would've continued his endless rabble, likely giving Rasa a headache. But luckily, he trained his men well. Pakura burst into the box, facing down Hiruzen and A with a determined scowl. Mifune glanced over at such, allowing Baki to also dive into the box. Zooming through the air with a blade of wind in hand, he slashed at Mifune. The samurai readily reacted and blocked the strike, though the force made him slide back.
Rasa glanced around the room at the tense atmosphere. Mainly to ensure no further attacks happen. But the room was still as some of the brightest minds in the world debated what this moment meant. It was fortunate; despite his strength and the considerable talents of Pakura and Baki, they could not hope to survive a full-blown fight. Even the older samurai was someone to be wary of. He had never seen someone deflect Baki's Wind Blade. Yet alone so casually.
"If you offer me a moment to explain myself instead of killing me, you may find I have answers that suit your questions." Rasa offered to the room calmly. Such likely seemed absurd to them but he had learned confidence had a way of ensuring people listened.
"There is nothing to discuss!" Mifune roared as he lowered his stance, appearing to be readying himself to charge the group. "You have broken the rules of this establishment and the trust given to you. This is a grave offense in the Land of Iron." He warned.
"I always wanted to see that samurai go all out. Besides, the Kazekage here did act out of line." A remarked merrily. Conflict that did not involve him or his forces was always welcomed. It served to weaken his enemies. Rasa kept in mind the man seemed keen on such.
"Now, now," Hiruzen objected with forced calmness, standing between Mifune, A, Rasa, and his guards. "It cost us nothing to hear him out." The man turned and offered a harsh glare, filling the room with killing intent. "That being said, it had better be a good explanation for this nonsense of my own men being risked!"
"Ah, such conflict reminds me of home." Yagura chimed in whimsically. "A hero survives off of conflict."
Rasa sighed as he marched forward to stare at the barrier surrounding his son and his son's foe. His mind whirled to earlier days as he started his explanation. Rasa hoped to explain that this may offer him insight or, more honestly, time.
"As I'm sure many of you are aware. Jinchuriki are human weapons made by sealing a tailed beast into a human. Though we create them in many ways, their inner workings and mechanics are mysterious. Not to mention things like long-term physiology, the psychology of jinchuriki, and even the limits to their power. Through war and testing, we'd all like to pretend it didn't happen, but it allowed us to make various discoveries regarding them. One that was most recently discovered was that each jinchuriki seems to have unique abilities. It is different for each beast and notably is only present in jinchuriki form. The tailed beast never shows use of it, suggesting it is the bond between human and beast that produces this. It was the Cloud who discovered such." Rasa started.
"Aye, we discovered it late into the life of one of my own jinchuriki." A agreed. "The ability was something else."
"Indeed." Yagura said with a smile. "I, too, have access to such an ability. Though I question what this has to do with any-. Oh, how interesting…" He finished with a smile.
Rasa frowned but continued on anyway. Recognizing he was in a delicate spot and needed to get out of it before anything else. "Well, I actually made the discovery myself years ago. See, on the night of my son's birth, I had arranged for the best care possible. Nurses, doctors, guards, anbu, truly the best of the best. It was necessary; I had given Gaara his beast before his birth. Meaning it was due to be a difficult and life-threatening process. But all was going well; my wife was strong-willed. And despite the great pain and stress she was in, as well as the complications from my meddling, she was doing well. Gaara was nearly delivered flawlessly until a hiccup was had. Birth from a perspective of a child is a traumatic and stressful situation. Some infants even suffer some of the effects of trauma from such. Gaara must've been similarly spooked. Suddenly, the barrier we saw before us was erected around my wife and son. The nurse holding onto my wife lost an arm as the barrier cut through it. Even more, unfortunately, it had managed to wound my wife. This barrier was the same dome you see before you now. I, enraged and fearful for both my wife and son, attempted to bypass the barrier using all my might. It was unsuccessful, and I was forced to watch helplessly. Giving birth and bleeding profusely, without the aid of help or medicine, my wife delivered my son. But in the process, she lost her own life. I was enraged by such, and once I stopped weeping, I sought to avenge her. I hired assassins and killers alike to take care of Gaara. I couldn't do it myself, even I don't wish to kill my own spawn. However, he lived, and despite using it that night to kill my wife, Gaara never displayed the ability again. I assumed he did not even know he had it. Surely, the beast did, but that was no concern. Or so I had thought; it seems either he learned to wield it or Shikaku informed him."
"So he used it just now. I don't see how that is worth risking the life of my Genin." Hiruzen complained, marching closer. His gaze had not softened.
"Think about it, old friend. My son has hidden this ability and revealed it in a match he seems quite keen on," Rasa egged on.
Hiruzen shook his head in disbelief. "He's using it to trap him? For what purpose? It hardly hinders Naruto in any true way." He asked.
"He intends to use the power of his beast, potentially unleashing him. It wasn't to keep Naruto in. It's to keep us out. He intends to kill or more than likely torture the Uzumaki and does not wish to be interrupted." Rasa explained. "To stop an international incident due to my son's impulsiveness, I hoped Pakura's powerful bloodline would free them. But it seems it will take more."
"I still fail to see the issue." A chimed in. "Why does it matter that it is within the rules of the exam?"
"The exams no longer matter," Rasa said bluntly. "My son wouldn't have sealed them off unless he believed we'd interfere. Even Kakashi's interference wouldn't have inspired such a harsh measure. I suspect he'll use the full power of his beast if need be, however. Despite the rules, I believe the blood of a jinchuriki by another may create some turmoil."
"I hold no true hatred for jinchuriki." Mifune said with a frown. "I hold them in pity, wretched beings they are. But to allow any creature to unreasonably die on my watch would shame me and my men. The price we extract for such would be costly." He warned.
"No need for your price." Jiraiya roared as he and Tsunade joined the group facing Rasa. "Should my student be killed because you're maniac of a son, I'll kill the both of you."
"He's a perfect jinchuriki?" Yagura asked with a smile. It served Rasa well, however, as it momentarily shut down the tension in the room. If ever leaked to any Kage, such news would be valuable enough to spill blood for.
"Not truly, but due to his… declined mental state, he is better attuned with his beast than most jinchuriki," Rasa answered honestly. The information being told was valuable, and usually, he'd never give such away with the ease he did. But such was unavoidable with the situation Gaara had created. Best to seek their aid and avoid further complications.
"Regardless, it would be best if we solved the issue first. Waiting may be costly." With this, Rasa snapped his thumbs. Pakura and Baki jumped toward Rasa, landing on a golden disc and hovering in the air. Rasa mounted his own. "As I said earlier, I am not sure this barrier can be breached. It would be best if we combined our efforts. The exams are not worth the trouble this could spell for the Elemental Nations." Rasa said quickly. The three shot off before anyone could question them, shooting into the air above the center of the dome barrier.
"Jiraiya, come on!" Tsunade roared as she leaped from the box and raced toward the barrier. She hadn't needed Jiraiya right behind her as they faced the west side of the barrier.
Jiraiya yelled out to the group. "It's best if we attack it from all sides! A series of simultaneous and widespread powerful attacks may be able to overwhelm it!"
As they did so, Mifune followed, leaping out in a streak of silver as they leaped to the east side of the barrier. He dropped into an absurdly low draw stance as he sized up the obstacle.
"As if I would allow one of mine to suffer on their own," Hiruzen remarked as he raced to face the north side.
A growled at the happening as he faced the south side of the barrier, furious. His men had been utterly shown up, and now a mere Genin had attempted to seal him off! No such insolence could stand!
The violent and now terrifying fight below shocked the crowd into silence. Gasping loudly, shocked to see so many infamous and powerful shinobi suddenly on the move. Each moved with such speed most shinobi and civilians alike could barely process their movements. Instead, they appear to be surrounding the dome. There was a nervous chatter as this carried on before the shocked silence returned as Onoki floated above the orb and loudly coughed. His voice was deep and loud, making the arena shake, obviously from using some jutsu.
"This damned jutsu, I can never tell when it-" Onoki muttered to himself, seemingly unaware of his jutsu working. Before he flinched, subtly smirking as he saw the audience seem to relax slightly, the humorous mistake allowed them to calm down. "Anywho!" Onoki continued heedless of the humor as if ashamed and bashful. "We need to stop this exam; we will dispel this barrier post haste and deal with these troublemakers. There is no need to fear or panic. The Five Kage are here and guarantee your safety." Onoki explained.
The crowd was silent as such. Even to the native Iron people, the word of a Kage or world leader was nothing to take lightly. But most could not help the anxiety slowly pooling. Everyone had heard tales of the power of jinchuriki. None wished to see it firsthand. However, if the Five Kage were to keep them safe…
The crowd roared in approval.
Rasa watched this all as he and his two most trusted men prepared their attempt to stop his son's plot. Seeing the barrier reminded him of the night his wife had died. The same pale glowing orb that had stopped him that night again sought to thwart his plans.
It would not.
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Naruto's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Naruto stared warily at Gaara, unsure of his new form or the barrier surrounding them.
"Dome of Forced Isolation!" Gaara cheered madly. It was as if he was overjoyed. He held his face as his roars turned into cackles.
"So, is there a point to this barrier?" Naruto asked as he eyed it curiously. "Some kinda ultra secret technique?" Naruto asked with a raised brow. Jiraiya had spent much of their training ironing out Naruto's strategic mind. Including how to use manipulation to farm information from his foes. Hopefully, Gaara wo-
"Probing for information already, brother!" Gaara howled, his voice deepening as it did. The transformation was complete. And Naruto's ploy had been detected. "But why not indulge you? We have plenty of time! This beautiful dome is a gift from Shikaku, unique to any normal jutsu you may encounter! Greater truly! With this technique, I have assured you there will be no interruptions, no more noisy interlopers denying me what is mine!"
Naruto was utterly perplexed by Gaara's behavior. He hadn't lowered his guard even now; he was certain Gaara had somehow become even more fearsome in this form. "And what is yours exactly?"
"You."
"Excu-" Naruto started but had to duck as suddenly Gaara closed in and attempted to slap Naruto with a massive sand hand. He was slowly growing in size as the sand seemed to aid his strength. 'He's strong!' Muri's voice sounded off in Naruto's head. It appeared he had switched to mental communication. 'Faster, too, I saw you attempted to repel him. He resisted it with raw strength. This really is the final stretch.' Naruto thought as he spun around in the air with absurd speed, a whoosh sounding off from the motion and wind working to empower the blow further, and kicked Gaara square in the face. But to his shock and Gaara's joy, the sandy monstrosity did not budge an inch. Nor did the sand seem to even indent from the power of the blow. However, Naruto had no time to be shocked, as Gaara grabbed Naruto's leg quickly and yanked.
Naruto was no stranger to physical might, yet was shocked by the ease with which Gaara whipped him from his feet. The entire time, Muri desperately attempts to blow Gaara away. 'Naruto! Be amazed later! I will not be a tanuki pancake!' Naruto focused back as he willed his chakra and will to double the power of the wind. But Gaara merely chuckled as they held on with ease. Naruto growled as, with a thought, Riptide flew back into his hand; Naruto growled as he filled it with chakra and managed to hack off the giant arm of Gaara's. Naruto and Muri worked in tandem to float above Gaara and stare down at the monster. Be careful not to touch the barrier. Barrier Ninjutsu was something the academy had briefly taught them, warning of their effectiveness and counter-defensive measures.
"Thank Kami, Uzumaki. For a second, I was worried physically and mentally crushing you would be boring!" Gaara roared. "It would've been a shame if this was boring! It is the start of your new life!"
"I won't be changing Gaara, but you will be," Naruto promised readily. He then started to slash Riptide rapidly, each strike transforming the air around him into blades as they rested above Gaara. "Starting now!" Naruto screamed as he hurled the storm of powerful blades toward Gaara. Naruto had seen these blades cleanly split massive boulders in two. This would slow him down, surely!
Gaara squatted down before he launched himself into the air. Each blade hit its mark, but each dispersed around his tough new skin. Gold shined within it. Showing the Golden Dust had been used to harden part of the hide even further. Naruto could only widen his eyes before Gaara roared triumphantly as his now-massive hand wrapped around Naruto. He had finished growing but was quickly three times as large as before. With a cruel chuckle, he whipped Naruto to the ground.
"Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit!"
"Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit! Shit!"
Naruto and Muri called out in tandem as they spiked toward the ground at a speed that both appeared to be nothing but a blur. With a wind boom, they both managed to stop their fall before suddenly Gaara flew in from above. Body fully outstretched, he tapped his hands to his knees before reextending and calling out with glee. "FROG SPLASH!" The massive Gaara smashed both Muri and Naruto into the ground. All three's enormous impact and weight smashed them through the ground's surface. Fully burning Naruto and Muri, Gaara chuckled as he climbed out of the hole.
"GET U-" It was Gaara's turn to be silent as Naruto burst from the ground, kicking the massive Gaara into the air. He was bloodied and furious. Even poor Muri was covered in dirt, his fur unkempt from the impromptu burial. Naruto and Muri raised both of their left hands and slapped Gaara as if he were mere inches from him. The effect was immediate as Gaara was violently slapped to the ground. The redhead is now buried. Naruto offered no respite to Gaara, and he and Muri punched at Gaara. Another massive and focused gust of wind smashed Gaara even more violently into the ground. Buried even deeper than Naruto and Muri had been. Gaara, though, seemed more annoyed than harm, leaping out of the whole as if he were unharmed. Naruto and Muri narrowed their eyes and, this time chopped their hand. The blow instantly cut a shallow line into Gaara's sand skin. However, the force managed to send him back to the ground.
"MURI LET'S KEEP THIS BASTARD DOWN!" Naruto roared as he and Muri continued their chops. Each unleashed a speedy, sharp line of wind slowly cutting through Gaara's armor. The force of each made him slowly stumble backward. 'I can't keep this up!" Muri complained. 'Set him up for the finish already-' Muri suddenly was ripped from Naruto's shoulder by a strand of sand. This ended the Personal Atmosphere Level Two, leaving Naruto off guard and falling toward Gaara. He paid no heed to such, instead watching in horror as Muri was being dragged to his sure death. To lose Muri was to losePersonal Atmosphere Level Two, which was the only thing keeping him in it. Surely Naruto should instead attack Gaara while he still could. But Naruto couldn't risk it, and with a small amount of hesitation, he activated the jutsu to dismiss Muri. Just as he had fallen into Gaara's massive hand, the redhead had attempted to crush him.
Naruto managed to stop his descent but was still at level one. Landing on the ground a short distance from Gaara, who was laughing even more uncontrollably. But as he stared at the monstrous Gaara, he knew this battle had become one-sided.
"So that was the secret, brother," Gaara laughed richly. "A summon would be the only way for you to catch up to my level so quickly—at least for a jinchuriki as untrained in our power as you. But it matters little now. I have removed your little summon. This fight is over. Now, we can begin with the true purpose of our clash today."
"Which is?" Naruto asked fearlessly.
"Well, first, I'll beat you senseless as I tear into your insecurities. It will surely be a long and debilitating process, but it is necessary to make you into what you should be. Fret not, Uzumaki, for soon you shall not be alone!" Gaara ranted.
"I'm not alone, you damn c-" Naruto was silenced as Gaara's massive foot smashed into his entire body. Skidding across the sand beneath, he stopped his painful flight.
"Silence, brother. I'm working. Scream or fight back if you wish. I will have to break you to make you see the light…" Gaara whispered as he stomped after the blonde.
Naruto screamed out as he activated Directional Surge, attempting to gain some distance. Gaara reached out with his left hand as if to grab him, and with his unique sand body, Gaara did just that, his limb stretching absurdly as it jetted out and grabbed Naruto by his left ankle. Naruto reflexively attempted to slice the hand off with a stroke of Riptide. But a crushing left blow to Naruto's back stopped such. As Gaara grabbed his other ankle and raised the blonde above his head, Naruto was stunned. Gaara smashed Naruto into the ground with a cruel laugh, which splintered and collapsed from the force. This left Naruto partially embedded in it as Gaara laughed at Naruto.
"I was a fool, Uzumaki! I thought I was wrong and might find proof of my cynicism! But here you are, Naruto! So close to being what I need but just unwilling to do so. Use it, fool!" Gaara ranted anxiously as if impatient to continue their battle.
Naruto faked a groan as he slowly allowed chakra to flow into Riptide. As soon as Gaara looked to grab him, Naruto lanced out, slicing Gaara's face. The redhead howled and stumbled back. Even with his enhanced hide, the combination of the powerful chakra and the sharp and durable Riptide had found its mark. A small amount of blood dripped from the tip.
Gaara had grown absurdly strong! Naruto had expected Gaara to use the beast. Jiraiya had assured him of such and offered some advice. Well, at first, they practiced the use of the Kyuubi. But Naruto had heartedly rejected such. It would've been hypocritical of him to use the beast chakra, not his own. Fuijutsu was his next suggestion, but upon seeing the Blonde's handwriting, it would take too long to use it safely. So Jiraiya had offered what little advice he honestly could. Hit them hard enough to take them out all at once (unlikely with Gaara's famed defense) or repeatedly hit them hard and fast until they faltered.
Jiraiya had warned Naruto this would change the scope of the fight, but it was ridiculous!
Gaara growled savagely as he faced the blonde, a cut flowing with blood even through his sand. It had narrowly missed his left eye, leaving a slightly deep line, making the redhead look even more fearsome. "Cut-"
Naruto did not waste time as he attempted to summon clones. But was knocked into the air suddenly. The blonde nearly passed out from the sudden and decisive blow to the chin. But through willpower, he stayed conscious. Only to cry out in pain as his ribs are kicked violently by Gaara. Naruto spat blood as he flew away, only to stop suddenly in his flight. Gaara had kept his grip, allowing his arm to stretch. Once he also noticed Naruto had, he reeled him in with a chuckle. Naruto willed his Personal Atmosphere to free himself. But Gaara's raw strength repelled such with ease. As he pulled in Naruto, he wrapped both arms around his head. Dropping his weight, suddenly Gaara slams Naruto's head violently into the ground. Naruto sees darkness again for a moment, but another painful blow rocks him from such. Gaara had stomped on his chest. He couldn't breathe! Gaara laughed cruelly at such, but Naruto managed to keep his focus and launched Gaara back with a sudden burst of chakra.
'I'll hit him with everything!' Naruto thought as Riptide suddenly beamed in chakra. He had been subtly doing this the entire fight, looking for an opening to unleash it. With a cry of "Directional Surge!" Naruto flew forward, closing the distance with Gaara.
Arrogant or confident, Gaara launched his limb forward, unconcerned with his uncontrolled flight. Naruto roared with frustration and triumph as Riptide quickly cut through it, leaving the limb falling off. Naruto closed the distance and began a series of fast and precise slashes. Each cut through Gaara's hide and made him roar in pain. Suddenly, Gaara caught Riptide with a sand globbed hand, simultaneously kicking Naruto back.
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Naruto allowed himself to do so as he summoned several clones. He flinched, however, and Gaara locked eyes with him and prepared to launch himself. The second he did, he boomed over in an instant. Any clone brave or foolish enough to be in the way dispelled from the collision but slowed Gaara down enough for Naruto to narrowly dodge it. However, his sleeve was caught by Gaara's regrown limb; instead of pulling it, he shoved it, slamming Naruto through some of the few remaining trees. Naruto skids across the ground from the shove, now beaten and bloody.
Gaara appeared above him. Confident and relaxed now that Naruto seemed to be slowing down.
"It's frustrating, isn't it?" Gaara asked simply. "Being so helpless, feeling targeted, it must be frustrating. But we have the ability not to be such; we are not mere humans!"
Naruto crawled to his feet slowly. "What is a human?" He asked numbly.
"Brother?" Gaara asked, confused.
"What makes a human a human? Is it looks, intelligence, or blood? When does a human stop being a human… you don't know, do ya?" Naruto continued, his voice growing in spirit and volume.
"What is your point!" Gaara asked with a raised sandy brow.
"You can call yourself whatever you want… be whatever, but we're all human." Naruto countered determinedly. "It's not something we choose to be or something that is amazing. But it's you, brother…" Despite his haggard and beaten-up appearance, he seemed sharp and ready to tango still.
'You intend to fight until you die? You cannot win; perhaps he'll have mercy if you surrender and agree to his terms.' A deep voice sounded from within Naruto. It was the Kyuubi!
'Would you ever surrender? Surely a monster like you can understand what it means to accept defeat!' Naruto mentally snapped back. His anger made his hesitation disappear. Two clones who had survived Gaara's earlier attack appeared behind Gaara, each thrusting Riptide towards his back. Naruto raced from the front as they did. Before they could land their surprise attack, electricity burst from the back of Gaara. The two bolts arced through the air before stabbing into the clones.
Seeing the electricity, Naruto attempted to stop, sliding as he drew closer. Gaara chuckled merrily as more electricity burst from his body and surged into Naruto, who screamed out in pain, stumbling back as he did. Unknowingly, the blonde dropped Riptide. But I had little time to consider things such as Gaara rammed into Naruto bodily. Sending him bodily rolling across the ground.
"You thought I was a mere brute? Relying on the strength of my beast? A one-trick pony? Brother, you are as foolish as you are stubborn." Gaara explained as he marched toward the slowly rising Naruto. "I discovered my element and mastered it years ago. Then, I came up with a technique for it, one that requires some setup. All this gold in the air and ground acts as a conductor of electricity, a superior one. In fact, these conductors act like lightning rods, attracting my lightning-nature chakra. It leaves me to blast a powerful burst of electricity that race it into the surrounding area. It leaves the victim helpless, as it were." Gaara blasted him again as he drew closer, but with a scream of pain, Naruto dived forward and unleashed a powerful haymaker at Gaara. Further boosted by a simultaneous blast of wind, Gaara did not react as he kicked Naruto down and blasted him again.
Naruto needed to fight back! To rally somehow!
'This One agrees that this one would not surrender in this situation. But I am practically immortal and powerful beyond comprehension; you are a slightly remarkable jinchuriki.'
'I have to win!' Naruto mentally bellowed back, though his voice screamed in pain as Gaara played with him. Switching from battering to shocking the blonde on a whim.
'This One has been called prideful… yet This One is more than you humans. If This One were to lose, it would never be slain. Pain and mortal injury are mere inconveniences to This One. For you, it is more than you can bear. This One believes winning these exams is not worth the peril and torture you are going through.'
'Your- d-amned point…' Naruto thought back in between screams.
"Why?"
'I don't care that much about winning these exams. I want to try my best, but… this is more than that! Gaara is just like me! I could've ended up like him; I can see it so plainly.'
'What does it matter what could be? Reality is much crueler than such.'
'But if I was him, I'd be desperate to be saved… to be proven wrong, for someone to stand against and make me see the truth…'
'You act as though acting selflessly is something to be commended. This One has always acted in its own interest. Such is the nature of life, all creatures do it to some extent. Acting like you do is what humans call self-destructive… what makes your way, right?'
'It isn't! But if we strive to better ourselves over time, things will improve! Even if they don't, we need to be better! Surely, with all this power and abilities we've been given, we can be more than weapons or freaks!'
Naruto heard nothing from the Kyuubi. For a while, Gaara kicked him around. It took all of his willpower to stay conscious…
'Touch your fist to Gaara's paw.' Kyuubi commanded simply. Naruto was delirious from pain and exhaustion, but he was determined to listen. He would not give up!
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Ino's POV (Audience Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
"We need to help him!" Ino cried desperately. She attempted to race forward but was stopped by Neji.
Ino nearly tore his head from his shoulders, but the intense look and aura around Neji gave her pause. Neji was as upset as her yet maintained his calm.
"Thank you," Neji started through gritted teeth. "We saw that the woman's impressive attack failed to breach it. Though we know the basics of barrier Ninjutsu, we know not how to breach it. We're useless…"
Fuu was being held back like Ino. It takes Both Samui and Tenten to hold back the powerhouse.
"This is bad," Sai said simply. The fake smile he normally wore was gone, and his face locked into a scowl. "The Sand has failed to keep their beast in check. We can't afford to lose Naruto. If only…"
"Shut it!" Tenten chimed in as she struggled to keep Sai in check. "God damnit, how strong is she!"
"It would be cool if you listened, Fuu," Samui stated as she barely managed to hang on.
"Screw that! Naruto needs help!" Fuu cried.
"There is no helping him. He either finds a way to survive or perishes." Sai replied dryly. The entire group of on-lookers seemed to tense at the sentence. Some are furious, and others fear its accuracy.
"Use your damn heads!" A voice snapped, silencing the turbulent group. To the surprise of the collected Genin, the lazy Shikamaru objectified. The ordinarily relaxed and droning voice had been replaced with a sharp loudness that pierced through their disagreements. His face, which was typically locked into a bored stare, was sharp and creased as he watched his best friend be beaten. "Sai is partially correct, WE, as in us inexperienced and unremarkable Genin can't help him." He continued as he marched to the railing and clutched it hard enough for the metal to creak. The odd sight of the intelligent and calm Shikamaru having an emotional outbreak kept objections from sounding out. "But he's not helpless. We have all five Kage here; at least some will be motivated to interfere. So hopefully, they can save him, but if I'm being honest."
"I think we've had enough of your honesty!" Ino snapped. Truthfully, she saw truth in his words but was beyond the point of reason. Seeing Naruto being victimized and unable to rush to his defense seemed to hurt her as much as the blonde did. "Maybe you should shut your fucking mouth!" Ino felt shame at her burning anger, but it did little to calm her. Shikamaru had been her friend before the formation of Team Seven. Their families were close. She thought she-
"IF I'm being honest!" Shikamaru snapped again. "You all need to have more faith in Naruto Uzumaki!"
"Faith?" Sai asked incredulously. "I recognize emotions have their place, but surely you recognize-"
"I recognize that Naruto was in the remedial exams mere months ago. I recognize he has repeatedly managed to prove those who look down on him wrong. I recognize Naruto Uzumaki has coasted his way through these exams!"
"I res-" Kurotsuchi started, but a hand over her mouth from Samui silenced her.
"I recognize Naruto Uzumaki doesn't understand how to quit or go against his word. He won't die today, nor will he fail. Naruto Uzumaki will show us all again the kind of shinobi he is. The kind I'm proud to call my friend." Shikamaru concluded.
Ino's and everyone else's stunned silence was enough to answer how effective Shikamaru's words were.
----------------------------------------
Rasa's / Hiruzen's / Tsunade's / Mifune's / A's / Narrator POV (Surrounding Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Rasa hovered over the barrier with a determined scowl. This ginormous dome was like someone had erected a monolith to his failures. A giant, unsightly reminder of a night he would give anything to change. Baki and Pakura hovered near him, both floating upon platforms of gold. Both had been present as guards the night of Gaara's birth. As such, they were wisely silent. Preparing themselves for their individual most potent techniques for what was next. Rasa had studied barrier ninjutsu after that night; it would've been foolish not to after his wife's untimely demise. As such, he knew it was theoretically possible to penetrate them with brute force. There were noted accounts in the olden, more bloody days of the past that showed such examples. However, they needed more specifics. Perhaps he should've sought council with one of the old goats-
'Can you hear me?' A male smooth voice sounded from within his head. Nerves snapped for an instant, but as a hesitant ally of the Leaf, he was familiar with this.
'Yes.' Rasa answered back simply.
'Good work, Inoichi. I had planned to ask you to set this up, but excellent work without my input,' Hiruzen answered as well.
'Ah, I've heard tale of this.' Mifune was apparently part of this as well. 'This is the unique jutsu of the Yamanaka, correct?'
'Indeed!' Inoichi sounded off. 'However, the reason I started the... A, can you hear me as well?'
'Been years since I been subjected to this.' A sounded off as well. 'Why was I even included?'
Rasa sighed mentally but was annoyed when such was somehow mentally audible.
'We merely figured a man of your stature would be insulted by the insulation that this mere barrier could bar your path?' Hiruzen saved them from a pointless argument with his blatant attempt at manipulation.
'HA! I see you as slippery as every you old fool!' A roared happily from within their heads. 'Fine, I will aid you pathetic lot just this once.'
'Jiraiya and I will as well.' Tsunade chimed in.
'Was gonna do a call entrance, but sure ruin it.' Jiraiya complained.
'The point of this.' Rasa cut to the chase. He could never stand how eccentric and powerful a shinobi tended to be. It was distasteful, to say the least.
'Right,' Hiruzen started. 'I have studied barrier ninjutsu for years; Inoichi runs my barrier department. My point is that I have the knowledge to give us the best chance to actually manage this.'
'Cowardly Leafs showing their true colors as always!' A taunted. 'My attack will breach this barrier with ease!'
'We shall see if your strike pierces true.' Mifune moved A along with a quick line. 'Continue Hiruzen.'
'If we all strike the barrier with various powerful jutsu simultaneously from our current position, we may just overwhelm the jutsu's chakra limit. Doing such should lead to the barrier collapsing, allowing us to end this farce,' Hiruzen explained.
'Wouldn't that risk the civilians?' Tsunade asked.
'Nah,' Jiraiya answered. 'That sexy explosive lady's attack was proof it absorbs chakra or at least energy. It's meant to keep it from being whittled away, but if we overwhelm it, it should keep the reactions to a minimum.'
'As good of a plan as any.' Rasa agreed. 'I shall give count.'
'Understood.' Mifune signed off.
'Will do, old bastard.' Tsunade agreed.
'We need to move quickly.' Jiraiya said his anxiety over his pupil being beaten was palpable from voice alone.
'I suppose I'll play along.' A hesitantly agreed.
'Excellent. On your mark, Rasa.' Hiruzen agreed.
Rasa's eyes had closed as he focused on the mental discussion. They now snapped open with intent. "Pakura and Baki, prepare to strike in tandem with me. Your best defensive bypassing attacks. Preferably ranged, as we do not know what contact with the barrier will entail. Likely a painful demise."
"Sir." Baki answered simply, as with a series of snaps, he wielded several blades of wind, each rotating around him.
"As you wish Kazekage-san." Pakura agreed. She began the same series of hand signs for the techniques she wielded earlier.
Rasa nodded as gold pooled above his head; it separated into large golden orbs, each floating in place as they started to swirl from within.
'1… 2… 3… Now!' Rasa mentally screamed as he began to bellow his next technique. Now was the time to redeem his past failure!
"Wind Style: Blades of Wind Revolving Wheel!" Baki called as he hurled the spinning blades of wind. Each buzzed as they zipped through the air.
"Scorch Style: Great Steaming Explosive Blast!" Pakura called a massive glowing orb of chakra, shooting off toward the barrier again.
"Golden Dust Manipulation: Golden Geyser Volley!" Rasa yelled in rage as each of his orbs shot their mass out in a beam of solid gold.
The combined blast of techniques rockets toward the dome. The audience gasps at the powerful techniques racing toward the center of the arena. Rasa watches as civilians scramble to escape. Informed samurai and shinobi rush to calm and contain them. But they will only settle once they are confident they will not be torn asunder.
Hiruzen's POV
Hiruzen, in many ways, felt as if he had failed Naruto Uzumaki. The boy's father had been Hiruzen's pride and assurance in many ways. Hiruzen retired quickly, knowing that such a capable and passionate young man would take his place. He certainly had been old enough for it.
Yet the man had fallen in combat as every Hokage had before him. Leaving a son and wife behind. Hiruzen had also lost people that day, and being forced back into his abounded post had been weary and unfocused. Kushina had always been independent and private. As such, Hiruzen had not worried much for Naruto Uzumaki. He had figured the boy would become someone he would treasure. But trusted it to happen without his interference.
The exams showed that despite the coldness of the decision, it worked out primarily for the best. Naruto was a mix of his mother and father and seemed to Hiruzen to be the following legend of the Leaf.
But his decision was clearly flawed… Naruto was now fighting a perfect jinchuriki. Hiruzen had battled the beast, and even jinchuriki ordered many to combat them. Usually an experienced Anbu squad, preferably, one with Fuijutsu knowledge. But this mere Genin was battling something that awfully resembled.
Hiruzen had made the mistake of allowing an asset to be risked. Now, he has rectified this mistake.
He allowed his chakra to flow in earnest. His power made the very ground creak. His mind, a weathered but efficient machine, whirled as it considered the best attack. Barriers were tricky; some were weaker to physical attacks, some more energy-based. Perhaps a mix?
He was called the Professor of Shinobi for a reason. It was time to do his duty and show these younger shinobi how the veterans do it.
'1… 2… 3… Now!' Rasa roared in his mind.
"Self Collaboration Technique:" Hiruzen bellowed as he began his hand sign sequence. He was the only ninja capable, well alive and known anyway, able to use two different elemental jutsu at once. It was… useful. "Fire Style: Great Dragon Flame and Earth Style: Mud Dragon's Roar!"
Two giant dragons burst to live behind Hiruzen. One was made of liquid, moving earth. It lazily moved as it gazed upon the barrier. The other was surging fire. It roared before it glared at the barrier. Both spat their terrible breath, one a mix of stone and mud, the other pure flames. The streams combined, creating a slurry of flaming mud and stone that raced toward the barrier.
Tsunade's POV
It was surreal standing in an arena like this. It had been a different one when she had been trying for Chunin. In fact, she was sure it hadn't even looked like this, certainly hadn't gone like this, yet it reminded her of the past all the same. Perhaps that was why she felt so motivated.
Naruto was a complicated pain for her. Tsunade was loathe to admit it, but Naruto was a remarkable young man. He had proved to be much more of a shinobi than she would've ever believed. But that was not what caught her attention.
Naruto was proud and determined like Nawaki had been. Naive to a lesser extent but with a will that made her sure they would persist regardless of the difficulty. Tsunade had always found this admirable and something she had once sworn to protect. It made Tsunade both yearn to speak to the blonde and want to avoid him—a conundrum.
Yet Tsunade could not be bothered by merely that. Somehow, the blonde also reminded her of… Dan. His high sense of morality, the open passion he had moved with, and the caring that made it so endearing, even his odd and, at times, masochistic sense of honor. It was nice to remember him, but like Dan and Nawaki, it seemed Naruto had bitten off more than he could chew.
Tsunade flinched as Naruto coughed up blood. As Gaara drew closer, he snapped up and managed to pick up and slam Gaara through a tree in an impressive show of strength. Though based on the laughter, it had merely bought him time.
Perhaps she was simply feeling her actual age. But Tsunade did not intend to let history repeat itself.
"I knew it!" Jiraiya cheered. "You like the brat too!"
"What of it?!" Tsunade asked haughtily. "He's… familiar."
Jiraiya frowned at such. "I figured he might be…" Jiraiya had always been respectful of Dan despite the fact he had won the woman he loved. It was one of the few reasons Tsunade put up with the man. "We gotta help him, Princess."
"Use your Odama Rasengan." Tsunade ordered.
Jiraiya, used to working with his temperamental teammate, did as she asked, raising it above his head. "I thought he said ranged attacks?"
"He did, and it will be… FOR ME!" Tsunade roared, barely able to contain the excitement in her voice.
"What does that-"
Tsunade didn't bother listening to the rest. Instead, she bent low, distracting Jiraiya from his dog-like tendencies. Leaving him defenseless as Tsunade suddenly grabbed an ankle and ripped Jiraiya from his feet as if uprooting a weed. Jiraiya screamed and barely managed to stop the Odama Rasengan from contacting them and killing them both. He was reliable like that; Tsunade threw the man savagely at the barrier.
Whoever said violence never solved anything obviously hadn't tried throwing them harder.
Mifune's POV
It had been a rough few days for the old samurai. Truthfully, Mifune felt each of his years as if they were weights tied to his back. The heaviest of which was undoubtedly the unavenged murder of Reizo. But the most recent two were just as shameful, leaving Mifune nearly shaking from rage.
The first several Leaf Genin disappeared during the exams. All of which were on the grounds of the Iron Arena. As all hosts do, Mifune had ensured, within reason, the safety of his colleague's men while on his land. Yet several had disappeared, all of which seemed to violently do so. It weighed heavily on Mifune to disappoint Hiruzen. Of the Five Kage, he always seemed the most reasonable. He is selfish for his land and manipulative as any politician. But the man acted with honor and had always been true to his word. Mifune could respect such and worked tirelessly to find his Genin.
Only for Hiruzen's arguably most valuable Genin to now be in peril and, despite their efforts, may perish. If Naruto Uzumaki were to die now, it would shame not only Mifune but the Land of Iron as a whole. Mifune could not allow such.
Gaara had seen fit to erect a barrier in the path of a samurai. While Mifune and samurai were intelligent creatures, they had never taken well to limits or been shamed. As Mifune lowered himself to the ground, he allowed his chakra to flow like it hadn't in years. His sheath vibrated with energy as he prepared his slash.
He would hold nothing back. A samurai did not allow obstacles to stand in his path unaddled. 'Let my blade strike true…'
"Severe Execution: Absolute Bisection!" Mifune roared as he drew his blade. A massive line of chakra raced through the ground in front of him. Surging toward the barrier in a brilliant showing of lights.
A's POV
A was not blind to Hiruzen's attempt to play him to get his aide. And as much as it made his blood boil, it did not make his words any less accurate. How could A, the greatest Raikage of the most extraordinary village, allow a mere upstart to impede him? Hiruzen had been right; it was a show of arrogance from Gaara. And as a senior shinobi, A would educate him on his folly. And if the little freak was killed in the process, all the well.
A allowed his chakra to flow into his left arm. It became coated in lightning so fierce that it made the room glow white.
Furthermore, it would lead them to believe A compliant. It was annoying to think these lessers thought they could never be on the same level but acceptable to further their goals. Besides, letting them go on was free PR for his enemies.
A could not let such stand.
A marched toward the platform outside the Kage box. He had no need for hand signs or any significant build-up. Such was beneath a man of his caliber. A would use a mere fraction of his power with only one hand and smash through this barrier and the jinchuriki inside. He would excused.
After all…
He was only trying to help…
A flicked his wrist, unleashing a massive storm of lightning that outshined even Gaara's.
Narrator
Civilians wildly slammed into the equally panicked samurai. Only the veteran shinobi among them held together the fragile morale. Even then, it barely managed to keep the crowd from stampeding. Even those among the audience who kept their cool flinched at the massive display of power being shown both within and outside the dome.
Anbu hastily formed their own barrier ninjutsu in case of significant splashback. But even some among them were stunned by the display before them.
The Chunin hopefuls watched in shock at the events before them. Some cheered at the chaos, others prayed for Naruto, and others even prayed for Gaara. Sasuke, the proud man, felt inferior watching the battle below. The two could even match his speed with raw speed!
Even Shikaku and Kurama watched from within their host. Both are interested in what will happen that day.
Each powerful attack collided with the barrier at the same time as expected. Unexpectedly, however, they were all into it. The dome glowed with latent energy, heating the air around it and evaporating whatever water was present. It looked as if, for the moment, the Kage's gambit had paid off. The dome did flicker, but it returned with the same glow.
The attempt had failed.
Even the Kage looked on in shock.
----------------------------------------
Naruto's / Gaara's / Narrator POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Naruto's entire body ached. His mind whirled with random thoughts, and his body moved independently, in sync with his mind. Determined to fight and struggle even if it killed him.
Naruto rolled through Gaara's impact, sending him flying again. Gaara had already closed the distance, so Naruto sidestepped the lunge and smacked Gaara in the face with both feet. It made the redhead stumble, but that long arm slammed into Naruto's ribs and knocked him down once again.
His ribs ached with sharp pain. Many were broken, and they had been broken multiple times now. Naruto supposed he was either extremely fortunate he healed or unlucky. At least it kept him in the game.
Gaara lunged forward again, and Naruto's mind raced to what the Kyuubi had said. His gut trusted it. Suddenly, Gaara stumbled as the dome around them flickered before returning to normal. Gaara had stumbled in pain and seemed stunned. It was now or never! Naruto raced forward and locked his hand with the sandy paw of Gaara.
"This One is glad you listened. Let's see if you can take advantage." The Kyuubi bellowed before Naruto's vision went dark.
Naruto's POV
It was as if Naruto blinked. Suddenly, instead of the Iron Arena, he stood in a desert. As far as Naruto could see, all he could see was sand. Some are in massive mountain-sized dunes, and the rest are flat. Unlike the desserts Naruto had been told of, there were no cactuses or minor green life among them. All of it was sand.
"So that's why this little shit did that! Kurama, you piece of shit! Shikaku had a plan with Gaara! Now, the little creep will complain!" An odd, shrill voice boomed. It made the sand tremble for its force, yet was not as deep or smooth as the Kyuubi.
"This One does not go by much anymore." The more familiar Kyuubi sounded off. Naruto turned around only to see an incredible sight before him. The Kyuubi, in all its tale, hadn't been justice. The beast easily outsized the dunes around him; it would likely be a disaster even if it moved quickly. Its eyes were red, and its nine tails twirled lazily. Just being by the beast made Naruto feel insignificant.
Amplifying the feeling was the massive beast beside it. Unlike the Kyuubi, it looked almost like a giant mishappen tanuki. Naruto was glad Muri did not see it; the little critter would likely disapprove of it. However, the likeness was only shaped as the massive beast was made entirely of shifting sand. Lines of blue, glowing chakra pulsed throughout it. It almost looked like…
"Hey!" Naruto said, calling them out. "Big fox and raccoon thingy!"
"Ah, this little ant is too cocky! Glad my Gaara is gonna torture you to insanity or kill ya! Insanity made Shikaku way better!"
"This One disagrees." The Kyuubi countered bitterly. "Watch yourself, by the way, brat. This is your only chance to win here, and This One is more than happy to take such a thing away."
Naruto went silent for a moment at that. "Where are we?"
"Inside my mind, brother." Gaara sounded off from behind Naruto. The blonde turned around to see a massive pyramid of sand before him. It seemed to stretch into the sky, yet somehow, Naruto could plainly see Gaara at the peak. "I suppose Kur-"
"This One is limited in what It can do here. But It can make your
feeble mind shatter. Gaara of the Sand."
"The Kyuubi." Gaara amended with ease, nodding at the beast. "Thought that if you were able to overcome me here it may give you the edge needed to win. I fail to see how, however. Assuming you could even do such, I'd crush you immediately following."
"Your mind?" Naruto asked, confused. "I thought only Yamanaka could do that."
"You being This One's host allows you access to a mental state humans cannot normally achieve. Furthermore, This One can allow you to share such with humans."
"Kyuubi convinced Shikaku to do such!"
"Why." Gaara demanded.
"Shikaku may work for you, but Shiaku does not care about your goals. Shikaku wants to be entertained!"
Naruto raised a brow, but Gaara merely nodded.
"As you wish." Gaara answered. "But will this truly entertain? It is meaningless."
"It would be." The Kyuubi agreed. "But Shikaku and This One have agreed that whoever wins shall be healed slightly. If Gaara Naruto is left unhealed, he will be at your mercy. If Naruto wins, he will be healed, and Shikaku will make you pay a toll. This One rather likes the idea."
"Shikaku does as well!"
"As it were—" Gaara suddenly deflected a blast of chakra with sand, glaring at Naruto, who knew he was floating at eye level. "Time to show you I'm stronger, mind and body, brother."
The pyramid writhed as countless strands raced for Naruto.
Naruto was gobsmacked; he could not dodge or counter all of them. There were hundreds of massive ones!
"This One will inform you, Uzumaki. You are not limited as you would be in your own world."
Naruto's eyes widened as he willed his mind. Suddenly, hundreds of Naruto's forme slashed a storm of chakra blades with their Riptides, each slashing through the sand with ease.
But Gaara merely chuckled as massive waves of sand surged forward. Each is well over a hundred feet long.
Naruto willed the clones away and growled at them. He was tired of being on the back foot!
"Get out of my way!" Naruto screamed as he slashed once. Each wave suddenly collapsed into itself, sliced in two. Gaara's pyramid was cut in two, leaving the redhead to fall into the desert and seek deep within the ground. Naruto imagined wind forming into massive hands that reached deep within the sand. He imagined them ripping Gaara free and beamed like Gaara had just done that. Looking as if he was held by an invisible massive hand. "I'm not done yet!" Naruto taunted. With a flick of his accurate wrist, Gaara was sent careening into the remnants of his pyramid.
"YOU CANNOT DEFEAT MY UZUMAKI!" Gaara bellowed as he rose from the sand, and two massive sand Gaara's formed. Each could not be seen fully as their heads stretched into the sky. It mattered little however because Naruto flinched as both raised massive fist and slammed them towards the blonde. "GIVE UP!"
Naruto felt a sliver of fear crawls into him. But gritted his teeth.
'Stand tall; your mental strength becomes true strength here…' A voice sounded off from within his mind. It gave him the confidence he needed.
Naruto lowered Riptide and instead raised a palm toward the giants. Right as the fists were mere inches from colliding, they froze. Suddenly, twisters formed from within their arms. The tornados tore the giant Gaaras apart and flung the real Gaara toward Naruto.
Naruto's mind raced for the right words to say. But he had never been a poet or anything. Naruto went for what felt natural.
"Shut the fuck up!" Naruto bellowed as he zoomed through the air and slugged Gaara as hard as possible. As soon as the fist connected, the entire realm seemed to darken. Naruto felt the odd darkness return to him, and as he did, two beasts conversing was all he heard.
"This One was right… he may be different…"
"Shikaku doubts it! But Shikaku's word is his word."
"This One agrees… lying is for weak humans."
Naruto's POV
Naruto blinked as he realized he was staring at a stunned Gaara. Not the monstrous form he had taken but his usual human self. Furthermore, Naruto realized that the barrier was gone. He still felt nothing but pains and aches as exhaustion settled in. Naruto had been at death's door before, so it was better.
Even with the boost, however, it took all of his strength to stand. Despite that, Naruto found more and marched forward, determined to see it through.
Gaara blinked, seemingly caught up like Naruto and aware of what had happened. "You, how did y-you?"
"I assume that place uses willpower or something from us as strength?" Naruto asked between pants. "If so, you never stood a chance, ya know?"
"N-no, stay away, you fool!" Gaara screamed as he fell back onto his rear. "I will lead our people to a better future. I recognize the true order of the world! I am change!"
"No," Naruto answered simply. He tripped slightly, the exhaustion getting the better of him, but managed to recover. "I know what you really are."
This shifted something in Gaara.
Gaara's POV
No.
No!
NO!
Gaara willed his sand to grab and crush the fool before him. However, for the first time in his life, his sand did not listen. Where had it gone?
'Gaara, you must listen! ' An odd voice called out. But it knew different from what it asked. He could not retake it!
Indeed, not even his own blood would reject him. Gaara had told him the truth, offered him a path he could've never found, and even now, he worked tirelessly to recruit him.
Now, even Naruto would say those accursed words!
"What a monster?! A beast?! A murderous psycho! I am what I have been made!" Gaara roared manically.
"Perhaps," Naruto answered as he drew within mere feet of Gaara.
Gaara had lost access to Shikaku and its powerful abilities. His gold was scattered and would take a while to gather enough to be useful. But Gaara had just enough chakra for one last jutsu! Let him draw a close! Gaara would end this!
"But more than anything," Naruto started as he drew back a fist.
Gaara did not let him finish. The fear would not let him. Instead, he called out shrilly.
"Lightning Style: Murderous Voltage River!" Gaara screamed. A massive flowing wave of lighting flew forward and enveloped Naruto mere inches from Gaara. Naruto froze as his muscles locked, and he screamed out in pain. Gaara cheered in jubilation as he maintained it, dropping every ounce of chakra into it! Gaara would not let this fool say it!
Gaara ran out of chakra, and Naruto, perhaps frozen in pain and shock, stood still. Gaara nearly mocked him before the blonde surged forward in a shocking burst of speed. Gaara cried out in fear as Naruto once again reared back his fist.
But instead of a powerful punch, Naruto's fist lightly rapped his forehead, specifically on his "love" tattoo. "You're incredibly lonely. Someone who feels like they have nothing to live for so you rejected your humanity. You lash out not because you're evil but because you're hurting. And in some weird and- slightly creepy way, you're my brother…" Naruto said softly before he collapsed onto the ground.
Naruto was breathing but did not stir or rise again.
'I… I won…'
Gaara didn't feel like he won, however…
Narrator
Kage, shinobi, samurai, and civilians were frozen in shock from the events. However, a certain cyclops marched forward dutifully.
Gaara watched as Kakashi Hatake drew close. If he was in a reasonable state of mind, he might've felt fear or moved, but Gaara was as stunned as everyone else.
Kakashi bodily shoved Gaara back, who was immediately grabbed by Rasa and surrounded by several samurai. But Kakashi paid no heed. Instead, he picked up the unconscious, bruised, and bloodied Naruto.
As he walked him toward the medical section, the signlessly activated a voice jutsu.
"G-... Gaara of the Desert Wins…"