Naruto: Paradox

by coronaprimo

Naruto is the prince of a once great empire, who becomes aware of his lineage at an early age. Naruto will use the gifts left to him by his parents and his ancestors, to become stronger. To become a king. To be a Paradox. This is the story of his ascension AU/ OOC Naruto/ OP Naruto First Story

13. Feelings

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or any other works that I use for inspiration.

"Speaking"- Speech

"Thinking" - Thoughts

"Speaking" - Non-Mortal Speech

"Thinking" - Non-Mortal Thoughts

Please read the Author's notes at the end.

Chapter Thirteen: Feelings

Hatred. . .

"Sasuke, please escort everyone out of the vicinity. They're in my way."

A deceptive emotion indeed.

Masquerading as an ointment to hurt when in truth it is no more than fuel for the flames. Its conception based on the beholder's perception for anything in the right mindset could breed hate. Being conceived when a father's concerns lie more with power and image rather than the well-being of his wife. Festering within the soul of the last, forced to deal with the devastation left behind while those responsible live freely. Growing in the heart of the damned, providing the warmth that no one ever felt the need to.

More hatred only guarantees more enmity, more pain, more death ahead, never more healing or an increase in our humanity. It can be passed like a sinister ember from one generation to the next, burning cold, waiting for the next opportunity for desolation and damnation. While conditions aren't right it bides its time in the shadows. Once the opportunity arises, it comes in fast to override one's better natures, making those afflicted more primal than person. Hatred, the twin of wrath, can never be one's friend. It makes one weaker, acting as a poison transmitted by reckless thoughts and words.

The world had this impression that hatred was simply a sickness that decayed all afflicted, but there were those who would argue that notion.

"You hate me? If that isn't precious."

"Don't get me wrong, I don't hate you personally. I hate everything you and your disgusting village embody."

It was as if the storm was feeding off his animosity, growing more violent with his deteriorating mood.

In the cover of the freezing rain and blustering winds, the teens moved out of their entrapment, to a safe distance out of the range of Fun'iki. As much fun as it was seeing the look on their faces, Orochimaru felt one wrong move might be costly.

"You're far too strong to harbor such an unnecessary emotion. . . If you come with me, I'll show you how to shed your burden's and obtain true power."

"How ridiculous. . . Having to sacrifice a part of yourself to obtain some shallow form of power. You really are pathetic."

He felt it stir within. His power, once again bending to his will, his desires, his wishes. As it grew within him, he felt more satisfied. More fulfilled.

"You've misused your hatred. Misunderstood what it is and how it's meant to drive you. You've fumbled about for so long with nothing to show but petty disdain because you felt cheated. It's insulting that the old man thought I could be anything like you."

The young man plunged his blade into the ground as his power exploded outwards.

Rattling tendrils emerged from the palm of his left hand. Each one letting off an inky black that only perplexed the serpent more.

"True strength is being able to turn all that would be against you to your advantage. Being able to turn poison into power, despair into domination. . . My hatred would never devour me, for it's meant to swallow all who would oppose me and mine."

The length of links began to bend and bond together, seemingly shifting the light around the new form they had taken. The bonds seemed to sing out as they merged.

Now, a hexagonal katana handle with a pitch-black finish, and a small severed black chain on its pommel stuck out of his hand. Its guard, with a black core and an overlapping vermillion border rested on the King's open palm.

"I will show you now, reptile. . . How one truly wields power. If it resides within me. It's mine. Mine to learn, mine to refine. . . And mine to control."

Naruto's right hand found its way to the hilt, freeing it from its confines.

Destruction.

Devastation.

Death.

The canyon flooded with these distressing sensations as a shockwave rocked Akagahara.

Orochimaru looked down to see the boy holding a peculiar looking nodachi. The blade looked as if it had been burned or better yet, as if it were still smoldering. An ominous miasma caked over Naruto's white haori, contrasting with its shifting colors.

Crimson and azure waltz wickedly within the void as the sickening substance continued to rise from the lad, seemingly unaffected by the arctic gales wildly blowing.

"King's Guard: Nikushimi(Hatred)."

Another of the King's creations, this one being the one of the most complex.

It was a feat that took the utmost concentration, forcing him to be in constant control of his chakra. It was so difficult in fact that he had only done it once before, but he had been training in his spare time, working to refine himself with all his empire had accomplished and felt he had made a breakthrough.

With the teachings of Tiamat to further his capabilities, he felt his connection to his power grow deeper. His chakra reached out to touch the world and he felt as it made contact. The lord felt more and more whole as his training continued, and his chains seemed to reflect his growth as well.

His Okaa-san always said that there were many secrets lying deep within. That he was a child of the vast and profound, all he needed to do was reach into the abyss and take hold of what reached back. He was seeing clearer, feeling more as he continued to use his power and communicate with it and with his improving insight this is what he pulled.

It was aptly named, for this saber symbolized the intricacies of his hatred. It resembled a weathered katana of no special importance, and its appearance did well to hide its secrets.

His hatred wasn't the philosophical drivel that the older generation seemed to be stuck on. It wasn't all consuming nor was he obsessed with it. In fact, his hatred was never held inward, but released out into the world, free to devour the thoughts and resolve of all those afflicted. He was the master of himself, emotions and all. In his hands, they would form a bow for him to play the strings of fate. Though fate's strings were the only ones the monarch managed to pluck.

It had been quite a while since this particular cord was struck for the Sannin.

He had only come across it several times in life, so few in fact that he could count them on one hand. The reverberated voice of one of the fiercest to ever exist. The crimson eyes of a true man slayer. The golden mane of the one chosen over him. Now, the stern stare of this so-called King planted its seed in the recesses of the snake's mind.

This boy, this child, was able to inspire fear within the heart of this war veteran. A man who prided himself of his callousness and brutality all for the pursuit of his ambition, felt a tremble in his resolve. It was at this moment Orochimaru felt it too. A new hatred had been born.

"More childish antics? If you-"

Naruto vanished from his position and appeared high in the sky, in the center of the snake pillars that once threatened his comrades.

"Uzumaki Sword Style. . ."

He rested in the air, both swords in his hand. Arms crossed across his chest with the blades passing over his shoulders. Upon descent, water like aura coated both Nikushimi and Fun'iki.

"Reaper's Rain."

A violent jerk transformed into a savage spin, cascading devastating waves.

Water blades decimated the snakes, leaving their severed sections to be scattered about, but it seemed the Sannin had slipped out of harm's way yet again.

"I must thank you. . . My detest for you was just the fuel I needed to help surpass my limits. I'm feeling better than ever."

His opponent landed some feet away as Naruto stood in the wake of his attack.

"Kehehe. . . You have been a delight so far. I'll have to take you back with me and rip you open to see what makes you so strong! Wind Style: Cyclone Jutsu!"

"Uzumaki Sword Style: Reverse Whirlpool."

The sannin produced a whirling windstorm while the sovereign swung his swords, creating a massive maelstrom.

The monstrous gales clashed, producing an opera in the skies. The instruments determined to sing out with the sand and debris as their percussion. The sound of it was a strange song, as if howling yearned for a melody, and all watched the landscape join in the unfolding scene, as if the change, though abrupt and startling, was as welcome as a visit from a long-lost friend.

Interestingly enough, the monstrous maelstrom exploded in size engulfing and assimilating the wind jutsu. The tearing force whipped up stones and boulders, sending them hurtling and crashing throughout the land.

*SHIIIIING*

*SHIIIIING*

*SHIIIIING*

*SHIIIIING*

Luckily for the onlookers, the knight was prepared for all dangers.

"Uh. . . Thanks, Sasuke."

"No need, I was simply performing my duties."

"This guy. . . I could've done that."

"You don't have a sword."

"Whose side are you on!?"

"Boys, please. You are starting to wane on my patience. Especially when I'm trying to behold such a magnificent display."

Hinata would be damned if she would let anything ruin a chance to view her majesty doing what he does best.

"Were you aware that his majesty was capable of this feat, Lady Hinata?"

"No, I was not, Lord Uchiha. I'm pleasantly surprised, but our King knows just how to keep me satisfied."

A shudder ran through her body at the very thought.

"I'm not happy that he hid this, or that he hid his dual wielding proficiency. . . That means he's been holding back more than I thought. He'll pay dearly."

"I'm sure he'll repay you for any trouble he's caused with interest and if not, I'll be sure to do so on his behalf."

Hinata had come to learn a great deal about the Uchiha, especially his disdain for being underestimated.

She was certain that Naruto hid these abilities more so due to how unrefined they must be due to the strain she could witness with her eyes. She also noticed something else going on with the young lord.

"Have you discerned it as well?"

"You're referring to Naruto-sama's chakra?"

"Yes, his chakra looks and feels different, yet all too similar."

A twinge, or perhaps a burning? Sasuke didn't know how to properly describe it, but it felt as if something within him was trying to reach out at the sight of his emperor's energy.

"But Naruto-sama appears to be in such a state of focus. . . A zone all his own. Just look at him."

Hinata's comment drew their attention back to the blonde before the bellowing gale.

"Certain Zero!"

His right arm took to the air and came down just as swiftly, severing the tempest as it reached its apex, and the very heavens themselves.

The forecast cleared and the sun peered through yet again into the dissolved wasteland, casting a clear light on the destruction this young man was capable of.

The ground laid baron, devoid of most of the sand that once rested atop. Now it was cracked and scarred, though enriched with a gracious amount of water from the storm. Across from the lad, laid his opponent seemingly lifeless, bisected by his left shoulder down.

"Look! He got em'!"

"If only it were that simple."

Sasuke's words prompted them to watch on.

The sight was a sickening one to say the least. From the mouth of the deceased, poured out fingers white and polished. They tore open the jaw with a wicked snap, then climbed out an ominous looking man covered in slime and bile.

Snake-like in appearance, he had very pale skin, golden eyes with slitted pupils, purple markings around his eyes and fang-like teeth. He also had pronounced cheekbones and slick jet-black hair falling down to his waist, with some locks covering and framing his face or to his shoulders. Cladded plainly in grey garbs with a black polo and pants underneath, a thick purple rope belt tied in a large knot behind his back, blue Tomoe-shaped earrings, and shinobi sandals with bandages around his calves.

"To think you would have me-"

"Low Tide."

The Uzumaki appeared in a burst of wind and proceeded to perform low simultaneous horizontal slashes. His brilliant blades greeted by that of his opponent, spewed out his elongated maw and impaled in the ground.

"Mid-Tide."

A quick step back and he was back on the offensive without hesitation.

This time with his surging swords simultaneously slashed horizontally towards the mid-section of his foe. Yet again, their weapons met with a defining clang. The Sannin felt the vibrations ripple throughout his body.

Orochimaru sensed its growth.

That damned look, those cursed eyes staring directly into his with no concern about the danger before him. This child was in the presence of infamy and continued forward, undeterred. It was infuriating. To be pushed back and put on the defensive so easily.

"High Tide."

Naruto took to the air, arms raised over his head. Then, a disconcerting double vertical slash came crashing down upon the blighted beneficiary.

It was a feat in itself blocking the assault. It was swift and powerful. In all honesty, it had been a very long time since Orochimaru had been forced to push himself this extensively.

A push off the sannin's sword helped him back into the air and with a breath his arms curled back. His own swords were submerged in the water-like aura that surged fiercely.

"Torrential Deluge."

Naruto unleashed a furious flurry of thrusts and stabs that rained down, decimating the ground below even further.

The snake man mustered up all his dexterity and finesse to be able to escape the onslaught with his Kusanagi no Tsurugi and his garbs taking the brunt of the damage. His sword was severely worse for wear, covered tip to hilt was cracks and chips. His clothing was torn and tattered, but miraculously he had avoided damage. At his first chance, the Sannin shot back as far as he could.

"Kushina never displayed this level of Kenjutsu! I can remember her using a few Uzumaki arts, though my impression is that her knowledge was limited due to the loss of her clan. It seems that there is more than just a Kekkei Genkai locked within the boy, but the secrets of such an enigmatic clan! Danzo failed to mention much of the information pertaining to this boy, so I'll return the favor by failing to inform him about his abduction."

As Orochimaru prepared his next technique, he felt an oppressive pressure yet again.

This pressure differed vastly from the previous, as if the air itself became denser. He looked over to the boy to see him emitting the most clearly visible chakra he had ever witnessed. He was sure he could run his scaly pale hands through the aura like the contents of a stream.

"My mind is free to dwell on those I cherish. . . I feel my connections growing deeper. . . Every movement of my body becomes a form of meditation. . . Removing thoughts that were never mine. . . I find myself in the deep. . . For I am the sea. . . I am water, and water is me. . . I'm in control of my flow."

The young lord spoke whispered words as his aura continued to pour.

Those familiar could spot the changes underway. The cerulean chakra had small spots appearing and disappearing as it continued to flow. A darker blue, and at times an ethereal vermillion resembling the night sky littered with twinkling lights and spectacular swirls tore its way into the world before fading back to the dense azure.

"My lord, you are burning through your reserves rather quickly."

Kurama would not receive an answer though. Her King stared at his foe as his aura continued its fluctuations.

"My Lord?"

"Our Lord is growing. . ."

Kurama scanned her surroundings. This domain was inaccessible to others, so what could she have possibly heard?

"We will be able to meet him now. . ."

She heard it once again. It was multiple voices that spoke harmoniously as one, their voice reverberating throughout the space.

"WHO'S THERE!? SHOW YOURSELF!"

"Soon. . . The king will truly show us off soon."

"MY LORD!?"

The vixen shouted with all her might to draw the boy's attention, but he was in some sort of trance and his power, some kind of metamorphosis.

"Our lord is more than just a monster or a beast. . . He's something more and he's growing closer to his truth…

"WHO ARE YOU AND WHAT DO YOU WANT!?"

"We want what our lord wants. We will give him the world."

The voices spoke at a low tone, yet it echoed dozens of times over before dissipating.

Kurama still couldn't feel any presence no matter how far in the confines of her container her senses reached. She was hellbent on getting answers, but with Naruto in this daze she had to pay extra attention in case she needed to step in with healing or energy. Back in the real world, the snake prepared to strike.

Orochimaru went on the offensive, sick of being overwhelmed by someone with a fraction of his experience.

"Formation of Ten Thousand Snakes!"

A countless number of summoned snakes squirmed out of the man's mouth, scurrying to strike down the sprouting sovereign.

They rushed rapidly like a harsh wave with many of the snakes taking an upright position, and from their opened jaws spat out replicas of their master's Kusanagi blade as if to skewer his foe. Orochimaru expected to receive some sort of reaction from the frightening sea of snakes he had sickened on the blonde, but all he got was a blank stare. It appeared that Naruto was in an intense state of focus, and that was true though it wasn't on the opponent before him.

Nikushimi cried out, humming as if to speak to him, but he couldn't make it out. As this bout continued however, it was becoming more legible. The more he pushed himself and focused the more everything felt right.

Every swing brought the satisfaction of fitting another piece in a puzzle. It was like stepping up a seemingly endless staircase and while he wasn't at the top, Naruto was starting to see the apex.

"Uzumaki Sword Style. . ."

The blades glowed brilliantly with fluid surging around them. The energy rushed with even more ferocity than previously.

"Torrential Tribute!"

Naruto once again spun, swinging his sabers with devastating force and results.

Ruinous rushing waves crashed against everything, even each other as they made their way forward. The waves of snakes met their gruesome end, being churned up and torn apart with even the replica blades breaking down like minded meat. All Orochimaru could do was watch as one of his most effective techniques, in terms of both offensive and defensive, was utterly eradicated by the herculean swells.

"Is this the power of the kyuubi!? To think that the boy would be able to utilize that much of its power at such a young age! Yet, he's still incapable of landing a hit on me, so I'll be sure to finish him off on first contact."

A massive tidal wave had amassed, racing towards the Sannin at a breakneck pace.

Through the wave, Orochimaru could make out the vision of the blonde. He rushed with swords in hand using the water as cover.

The snake had no intentions of allowing Naruto continued control of this battle. Adopting a triumphant grin, Orochimaru slid his fingers along his sword, gaining a bright white glow. He then unleashed a slash of his own, with his Kusanagi extending as it neared the wave. It carved into the canyon walls, slicing through like butter and continued to do so once it made contact with the surging swell. The elongated steel bisected the water, yet it was strange that it was met with zero resistance. He received an answer to why once his senses started blaring like a siren.

On the falling droplets of water, his slitted eyes could see the blonde's reflection. Kusanagi's length rapidly reduced to a fraction, closer to the size of a knife. Orochimaru switched to a reverse grip and just as fast as it shrunk, the sword stretched out just in time to take the brunt of Fun'iki's downward slash.

The airborne Uzumaki went to capitalize on his opponent's position. From his left hand, Nikushimi fell.

"Rogue Wave!"

Before it reached the surface, a powerful kick to the base of the hilt sent the sinister saber soaring to strike the snake's neck.

Thanks to his reptilian alterations, Orochimaru elongated and bent his neck to avoid being skewered.

Unfortunately, he couldn't completely dodge Nikushimi's edge, receiving a small nick on his neck's side. A small wound such as this was nothing to worry about, however everything that followed filled the deserter with much dismay.

His world was utterly discombobulated. His vision split and spiraled out of control to the point where simply having his eyes open felt like a disservice. His stomach went on a whirlwind and the Sannin thought he would soon be greeting more serpents. His legs buckled a bit as haggard breaths escaped his fanged maw. He felt as if a part of his very essence had been cleaved.

Another similar feeling washed over Orochimaru along with a memory of his past. A young genin on bent knees, looking up at his sensei. It had been after a training session in which he could do nothing to even harm a younger Hizuen. The man stood over him and regardless of the expression on his face or the words that followed, Orochimaru felt one thing. The same thing he felt now all these years later, brought to his knees yet again.

Weak.

"WHAT'S HAPPENING TO ME!? WHAT THE HELL DID THIS TWERP DO!? WAS IT THE SWORD!?"

Mustering as much strength as he could, Kusanagi flailed frantically in hopes of striking the boy, though Naruto quickly avoided the swings.

"You don't seem to be doing too well."

The blonde called out from a distance while Orochimaru propped himself up.

"MY LORD!"

"I'm sorry to have worried you, Kurama-san."

"Think nothing of it! I'm filled with great relief that you are alright, but there is something else to address."

"The voice. . ."

"You heard it as well, Naruto-sama?"

"Yes. It sounded so familiar, like all those years ago. . ."

"What do you mean, my lord?"

Naruto then appeared within the inner domain with his eyes tightly shut.

"Back when I was young and lonely, the whisper in my mind would guide me. When we first met, I believed you were the voice. Though after hearing this voice, the feeling. It was like I was being put together, closer to being completed."

The strange aura surrounded the boy once again, sparking a sensation Kurama hadn't felt in centuries.

Chakra waltzed around Naruto and though he had used a large quantity of his energy in this battle, he appeared more energized than ever. Kurama always had a knack for feeling others' emotions, but it was like she felt everything. His hopes, dreams, even his very thoughts floated before her.

"I saw the water encompassing me and it was marvelous! I was the water; I could feel every molecule. And then, I saw more!"

She noticed the world around them began to change.

"I can't even say I fully fathom what it was, Kurama. Microscopic stars twinkled elegantly. The void filled with almighty swirls and ethereal clouds that burned bright with a crimson glow. . . It all felt right. It was all mine, a sea vaster than the sea!"

The majestic scene that Naruto had described became that of the domain.

Water suddenly overtook most of the land, leaving the once vast desert as an astounding archipelago. The once blank sky was filled with vermilion visions, swirls and spirals. Sprinkled across this awe-inspiring canvas, was a slew of miniature light sources of varying sizes.

"And the whole time, I heard the whisper call out to me. . . I heard the soothing rattles of my chains. . ."

"Naruto. . ."

The world shifted to fit his whim and reflect his ever-expanding might. That's when the voices' words resonated within the vixen. As she gazed upon the Uzumaki monarch, all she could think was that. . .

"You're growing, my King."

Naruto's eyes opened to take in the spender of his surroundings.

His sky finally full, the sea water lapped on the shore and as the water graced his feet, he could feel the doubts and hesitation wash away. This world felt more like one he would create; one he would enjoy.

A world where he could be, completely.

"Whatever that voice was. . . Whatever these feelings are. . . They are a part of me, and I will hone it."

Chains sprung to life, caressing their creator gently.

He felt that his power was acting upon his desires, supporting him and caring for him as if it were its own entity, as if they had come alive. Though he loved it for whenever they came along, Naruto felt like everything was truly coming together. Like bonds were coming together inside him.

"Of course you will! There is nothing in this world that you aren't capable of, that I'm certain of. . . More so now than ever."

Kurama had watched the boy all her life and even within Kushina, she could tell he would be something else.

The sage and his children were certainly different from the rest of this planet's inhabitants and Kurama had recently met beings she had no idea existed like Tiamat and her Atlantians. The young man before her gave off a similar impression as they did, inspiring the vixen to feel a deeper kinship to him. She had always been, but never was she more so convinced that locked deep within him was a power that could make the tailed beasts weary.

"Thank you, Haha. . . As tantalizing as this development is, we can't forget about the reptile in the room."

In the real world, Orochimaru appeared to be regaining his composure.

"I know I'm low on chakra, but I feel like I can have a bit of fun before I wrap this up. . . I've been dying to try out a new technique Haku-chan helped me develop."

"Then go, my lord. I'll provide you with all I can if the need arises."

Her King disappeared, leaving her to take in the new state of her domicile. It was far more pleasant, especially the night sky with its shapes and colors. It was a cosmic garden for Kurama to take in at her leisure.

Naruto snapped back to reality to see his opponent on his feet, sneering furiously at him.

Kusanagi lengthened once more, racing through the air to rip the head off Naruto's shoulders.

Fun'iki's exceptional interception allowed for the King to parry the blade away. The distance between the two as well as the snake's sword shortened, and in mere moments they were locked in swordplay yet again. Slash after slash, clash after clash, closing the distance just to have it expand in a breath. It was a mad dash to land the first blow.

Naruto dipped and weaved right as he was about to reach him and slashed downwards with his sword. His opponent pulled off a parry, their blades clashing against one another with a shriek that sent sparks flying into the air.

The blonde swordsman swiftly went for an uppercut slash at the wayward warrior, attempting to cut Orochimaru from stem all the way to stern. A slither to the right was just enough for Fun'iki to pass a hair's breadth from his pale face.

Quickly, before the boy could continue his assault, Orochimaru sent a critical kick to Naruto's solar plexus, successfully stunning him for a brief moment.

"It seems he's spent a good deal of energy early. As long as I keep him away from that other sword, I'll be able to take him in. . . He's just a child after all."

The Sannin started feeling confident once again after seeing the results of his strike.

Orochimaru decided it would be best to rely on his physical prowess and experience to best the boy for his bigger jutsu might allow Naruto to retrieve his nasty Nikushimi.

The breakneck blow had opened the boy up for another attack and Orochimaru was delighted to oblige him. He went for a swift sidekick but found his leg in the crushing clutches of the King. His fist radiating a large dark glow shifting between a blue and blood hue.

For someone so young to be able to lift a grown man off the ground with the slightest of ease was obsessed enough, so it was only salt to the wound when Orochimaru found himself smashed against the canyon wall like an insignificant insect.

"He'll never touch you again. . . You are far superior to this simpleton."

Voices came through clearer than ever as he felt the power swell deep within.

"Show him what you can do, our lord. . . We will deliver you victory as we always have."

To the Sovereign's surprise, a transparent tendril came to life from his back. A plan appeared like the scenes of a film and from there he knew what to do.

"I think it's time for the final act."

Fun'iki cried out as a terrible frigidity fell upon the leveled landscape.

Orochimaru relieved himself from the wall he was embedded in. With chakra runnin through his heels. He attached himself to the wall's surface, then launched forward with Kusanagi thrusted.

Naruto adopted a grim grin, then crouched while holding his sword vertically before himself.

"Fun'iki: Mirror Maze."

Orochimaru rocketed forward, but before he reached his destination the venue underwent a transformation.

Finely translucent thin walls of frigid crystal erupted all over, with a particularly large once appearing before Naruto, though Orochimaru could still see the boy through it.

The snake smashed straight into the wall. Sure, he had landed a direct hit, but he found himself flying through only ice. He was quick to get back to his feet, and upon looking up he was greeted to the image of the blonde pain in his ass, plastered across the various crystalline panes. It resembles some sort of fantastical garden in a novel, one where a child could play to their leisure with the sea of doubles the ice created.

"It's wonderful, isn't it. . . It was very difficult to manifest this many of the ice panes before, but now it kinda feels like it's second nature."

His voice echoed in all directions within the confines of his mangled maze.

"Enough with your games, child. You're boring me."

"Then let's press on. Sharp wind."

The frozen screens all projected the image of Naruto swinging his blade, producing a loud whistle broadcasting from all directions.

The air wave hit its target before Orochimaru could pinpoint the direction of the projectile, sending a geyser of blood spraying from his left arm.

He couldn't even tend to his wounds as his slitted eyes noticed the screens reflecting his scaly image and behind him, the blonde and an unavoidable kick landing center in his back.

One.

Two.

Three.

Pane after pane after pane as the pain radiated from the impact point and the lacerations the ice was kind enough to gift him.

Back to his feet, the rogue-nin expected to see the genin on the warpath, but instead the panes that should've been broken were standing in pristine condition.

"Am I still boring you?"

"Very much so. . . Why don't you come out of hiding and let's end this boy? I'll make sure you don't feel too much pain."

"How kind of you. . . I think I'll take you up on that offer."

Orochimaru gained a matching gash to his right arm, courtesy of the blonde that blitzed by.

"Like what you see?"

"I think he's a bit confused, Naruto."

"You think so, Naruto?"

Though there was a blonde in front of him, the ice screens displayed copies of Naruto. Copies that he was having a separate conversation with.

Orochimaru was the one doing the blitzing this time around, earning a massive clang as their weapons met.

"Oh, someone is impatient."

There were no words as the Sannin seemed like he was taking this more seriously than before.

It was a scene of pure madness.

Two strange swordsmen slashing at each other with looks of elation plastered on their faces, spectated by visions displayed on ice in a desert. Snakes and shockwaves flew through the air, at times being joined by high-speed shuriken and shots of elemental energy. Gales gushed out from puffed paled cheeks while bolts blasted from the tip of the azure nodachi. The glacial garden shattering, then blooming anew as their bout raged on.

The two closed, Orochimaru cutting at his foe. Fun'iki intercepted, but Kusanagi's cut simply mutated into a thrust with the man's left arm following suit into a serpent. He cut and thrust while the snake hissed and bit at Naruto relentlessly, driving him around the maze, never letting him gain his balance. It was then that the king revealed the capabilities of his crystalline creation.

Frozen sheets shot up between the combatants, shielding Naruto from Orochimaru's assault. They shattered and much to his foe's surprise, the blonde was nowhere to be found. He'd then appeared without warning, successfully striking, either landing a blow or nicking the man further. Retaliation was met with the same defensive maneuver and thus started the game of guerilla warfare.

A punch here.

A kick there.

A slash to the leg.

A stab to the back.

All while under the foreboding gaze from each crystal pane, Orochimaru had the tables turned on him and now was doing his best to gain his balance. He could only guess that the child had some sort of army hidden in wait, for the boy would pounce and then, poof. What made matters worse is the power behind the blows. Naruto was either trained by Slug princess herself or blessed by the cosmos with physical might only to be grasped at by mortals.

Punch.

Kick.

Slash.

Stab.

He could heal from these wounds faster than your average, yet it was the principal of it all. Orochimaru was sick of this. He had experimented, trained, studied and it was amounting to not dying from this brutal bashing the blonde was dispatching.

"You hate me, don't you? I'm not the easy kill you thought I was going to be."

Their cutlasses clashed again, resulting in a struggle for dominance. Orochimaru sported quite the smirk though the facade was seen through with more ease than the boy had ever had prior.

"If that isn't precious. . . You can try to hide it, but I can taste it. The animosity you have towards me, a mere orphan."

"You're nothing more than a morsel for me to devour, albeit more entertaining and delectable than most."

"Pride truly is the devil but thank you for the compliment. You've certainly been more intriguing than your teammates. . . Such bores those two are."

"This village tends to breed the type, though once in a while they create those like you and me. You still have a chance to join Naruto-kun. We'll make this entire village pay for the atrocities you've suffered."

"Our injustices are not the same. . . We're not the same. My gaze hasn't fallen on this place regardless of the wrongs done to me and mine, yet you seek some ridiculous retribution because you lost a popularity contest years ago."

A sour subject indeed. That snide remark was a fine bit of nourishment for the pale man's amenity.

Orochimaru overpowered the blonde, slinging him forward through several ice sheets. He then transmuted from serpentine to dracontine. His head grew massive, gaining a pointed chin.

He opened his massive maw revealing rows upon rows of jagged teeth and fangs. A rattling hissed roared out before pulverizing plums escaped, devouring the ice entrapment in a wrathful stream of flames. Once the incendiary onslaught ceased, the land laid desperate for relief from the abuse. Cracks and creators now defined the smoldering canyon path, paying vestige to what took place here on this day.

At a distance the young lord was brought to a knee, yet evidently unharmed.

"It seems like our little game has come to an end and as you know, only one of us can be the victor."

"I'm well aware. . ."

"Well, you are a smart child, my boy. Too bad your little tricks, however entertaining, just couldn't cut it."

The elation that coursed through his sickly veins was the reason Orochimaru sought power.

To bring the mouthy morons that dared stepped to him to the ground desperate for air and a painless end.

"Guys, don't you think we should do something? Naruto doesn't look too good."

"After seeing what we've seen, and knowing who that is, what would you like to do, Kiba?"

This was not what any of them had expected.

One of the most dangerous criminals in their village's history spontaneously showed up, trying to kill one of their own. To make matters crazier, a mere rookie was matching that man's might.

Hinata and Sasuke had the utmost faith in their king and thus had nothing to fear, but that wasn't the case for the others. All they had witnessed gave them a clear understanding that they weren't in the same league as the other three. For one this revelation was motivating, for another it was infuriating and for the last, it was noted.

"You needn't worry about Naruto-sama. He's already secured the victory."

"Let what's about to happen be a lesson to you three. . . It's never over until it's over."

Perplexed by their cryptic words and even more so by their splayed doujutsus, Sakura, Kiba and Shino continued to watch the finale unfold.

"I'll be sure to use you to your utmost potential. . . It'll make up for the Uzumaki you stole from me earlier. And once I'm done with you, I can move on to securing my Sharingan. And to have a Byakugan as well, fate must be shining upon me."

"Trust me, you won't be laying a finger on any Uzumaki. Besides, Sasuke could take you easy. . . If you were facing him, you would've been dead already."

"Is that so?"

Orochimaru had the boy downed and out, so why not humor his last display of bravado.

"Your head would've been severed from your shoulders. That's his favorite way to end his prey."

"My, My! You children are more than meets the eye, it seems. Spectacular examples of shinobi, which is good for I wouldn't add anything other than the best to my collection."

"I do come from superior stock. Did you know my predecessors have held great positions of power? Seeing how desperately you yearn for that; I can understand why you'd want what I have."

"Seems you'll serve my purposes better if you were silent."

Orochimaru brandished his blade and regardless of the less-than-ideal state it was currently in, it was still more than capable of adding another body to its count.

"Then rush to your ruin, reptile. I'll be sure not to inflict too much pain."

That smile again.

Like there was no reason to be worried. As if he had already won. He was sick of the fools of this village sporting that damned smirk. Orochimaru would have his wish, to exterminate that look off the face of the planet, and he'd start with the upstart Uzumaki. In mere seconds, meters turned to centimeters. The threat, now a full-blown danger as Orochimaru flashed before Naruto with his blade thrusted forward.

It was an agonizing crawl as the blade neared closer to its destination, but the joy scurrying within him made the moment worth savoring for the pale man. That delight was cut short by the boy sickly beaming from ear to ear.

"Good! Die with a smile on your face!"

A significant sound engulfed the surroundings.

The sound could only be described as a monstrous bite out of a juicy ripe apple as the squelching rang out before silence overtook the land.

"What the hell just happened?"

Questioned the ever-curious Kiba as the events unfolded, or was it more accurate to say didn't unfold?

The scene was still and silent with the two combatants frozen in place.

"Didn't I tell you? Naruto-sama has secured victory."

A clang reached their ears, turning their attention to the fallen Kusanagi and the rising Uzumaki.

Along with his ascent, came the reveal. From behind Naruto, a phantasmic chain with swirling hues of roses and violets came to life. More and more of its length appeared until it began to morph.

The pummel, then the hilt, followed by its guard with finally, the sinister saber sticking out of the Sannin's sternum.

"That was a lot more fun than I thought it would've been."

As Naruto reached his full height, a ghoulish gasp escaped Orochimaru before he started slouching down.

"I didn't even think that I could summon up another chain while using Nikushimi, but this encounter has been stockpiled with surprises."

The man's appearance locked worse and worse as the moments passed.

His pale skin looked far whiter than ever, and severely dehydrated to boot. Orochimaru's body looked as if it were being drained through a straw, with there now being a malnourished shell of the man.

He was now on his knees as the young lord approached with Fun'iki at the ready. Naruto had decided to finish what his opponent could not.

"I'm sorry if it seems like I'm rushing this. Understand, I've already got a stern talking to coming my way from my knight about how I've conducted this battle and if I don't finish this soon, it's only going to be worse for me."

Naruto brought his blade down, but his sword switched targets as the Sovereign's senses flared.

Fun'iki glowed before a swing unleashed a cascade of razor winds that shredded a volley of soft and hard projectiles of white and gold respectively.

"What is it now?"

"My Lord, there's incoming from above."

With the warning, Naruto leaped back, tearing Nikushimi and allowing Orochimaru to fall over. Crash after crash after crash kicked up a great big dust cloud. With a forceful gale, three ominous ogres were revealed.

Their eyes and ears were covered, and their mouths sewn shut. They were hulking behemoths, masses of menacing muscle waiting eagerly to destroy.

The one standing to the right wore a dark green full bodysuit, with its dull grey hair covering its entire head and face. It began to swing a giant studded metal club to and fro, as if to get some practice in.

The left one had its upper body completely covered in bandages and its lower, in brown pants. It stood backwards with its head constantly titled to the sky, but most noticeably were the several needles protruding from its head.

The middle ogre stood shirtless, with dark pants. It was bald, yet his scalp was covered with scars and his eyes covered by a blindfold. It had sharp claw-like weapons, seemingly made out of bones, secured to each arm. This one also carried a passenger of slender build, with a kusa hat and wooden mask.

"Don't come a fucking step closer!"

"I would reprimand you for your unladylike language, but that is more or less what I would've said to you and your friend, whom I must say I'm surprised to see." Plums of violet mist popped onto the scene with Sasuke and Hinata stepping out of them, with the latter addressing the rider.

"Those freaky eyes allowed her to see through my disguise. . . What did the kid do to Orochimaru, and what's with this weird feeling I'm getting from him?"

"That's right, bitch! I don't know what that jutsu was, but it's gonna take way more than that to kill me!"

From behind the wall of ogres, a badly burned Kidōmaru, now sporting 4 extra appendages.

"Lord Orochimaru, please drink this."

The spider shifted the serpent, then dumped the blood red contents of a reptile skin flask down the man's gullet.

"Are you guys here to continue what your teammate started?"

Inquired Sasuke, earning him a series of growls from the gruesome giants.

"You little fucks like to talk a lot. . ."

"No more talk than. . ."

Sparks danced to life in his closed fist as the land was blessed by an orchestra of chirrups, cheeps and chitters. A swing seemed to be the needed catalyst for an opaque indigo sword to appear in his grasp.

Watts of wildly ultramarine electricity resemble a sentient saber, anxious trying to escape its captivity.

"When'd you learn to do that?"

"Probably around the same time you learned how to pull a sword out of your hand."

"You don't sound too pleased about that."

"We'll talk about it later, my lord."

"It's not like I was hiding it. . .This was only the second time I pulled it off!"

With the chained Nikushimi nodding up and down.

"This isn't the time."

"Hey, Kidōmaru. Grab Lord Orochimaru and hold on to the Doki. I'm gonna reverse summon us out of here while they keep having their couples quarrel."

The rider whispered to her injured comrade.

"You want to turn tail and run, Tayuya!?"

"Why the fuck am I the one using my head today!? One of them laid out Orochimaru and the other two seem just as cocky as him! The fuck do you want to do, barbaque boy?"

Those factoids were hard to refute.

"And are you gonna deal with Kimimaro if something else happens to him?"

That clinched it!

There was no other choice than to retreat and lick their wounds, especially with their leader hardly responsive.

"You're right. . . We're ready when you are."

Their murmur conversation came to an end as Kidōmaru followed Tayuya's orders.

"HEY!"

Before she could whisk them away from this once beautiful landscape, Naruto's shout pulled their attention.

"You guys are going to try and leave, aren't you?"

Tayuya didn't know exactly how to respond.

Her brash nature was screaming at the girl to use the harshest of her vocabulary and unless her hellhounds upon the brats, but she had to be wise.

"I'll take your silence as a yes. So, before you go, can I ask you for a favor?"

The King casually asked while sheathing his blade, reverting it to its base form and reabsorbing his earlier creation.

"A favor?"

"Yes. If you humor me, you're free to go."

"And your friends are cool with that?"

"If that's Naruto-sama's decision, I feel no need to question it. Besides, nothing he'll do now is about to compare to the training session that's ahead."

With a release of his grip, Sasuke's static sword died out in a flash.

"That's the spirit, Sasuke! I knew you wouldn't remain sour about this."

Hinata chimed with a snicker or two.

"Fine, Fine! What do you want?"

"Can you please remove your disguise?"

"What the fuck!? I knew you had to be some weird pervert!"

"Trust me, there's nothing that you have that Naruto-sama needs."

"What was that bitch!?"

"Tayuya was it. . ? I meant no offense and I'm sure you know what I'm asking."

His stern stare told her that he was quite serious.

"Alright. . ."

Tayuya fulfilled the request, removing the hat and mask covering her true features.

Alabaster skin wrapped around feminine details, accentuating auburn eyes that were and their accompanying luscious eyelashes. The most distinctive feature was the long, untamed, scarlet locs that fell past her shoulders with long parted bangs framing either side of her face and one between her eyes.

"This has truly been a fulfilling day!"

"Indeed, my lord!"

"What are you freaks talking about?"

Tayuya asked Hinata and her King as she was getting a strange vibe from them and their stupefied stares.

"It's just, I never would have imagined running into two Uzumaki on the same day!"

"Uzumaki?"

Tayuya's faces had an amalgamated look, being a combination of confusion and unease.

"That makes sense. . .Our clan was wiped out long before our time."

"Our clan. . ?"

"Yes, that particular shade of red that you're sporting is a clear indicator of your heritage. . . You are royalty."

"Tayuya! What the hell are you waiting for?"

The severity of the situation was not lost on the scarlet haired maiden, but she found herself far too curious. Besides, who was going to stop her?

"Enough with the cryptic shit. Tell me what you're talking about."

"The condensed version is that you belong to the same clan I do. I'm currently on a mission to bring back our once great nation and if you join me, you'll be a princess and want for nothing."

"Why am I even taking this seriously? There's no way I'm part of this kids' clan, but why the hell would he tell me this anyways? Is he messing with me or. . ?"

"I'm sure you're finding this hard to believe. You've probably been under the snake's employ for a while, regardless of you know what I'm saying is true. It might be upsetting but trust your instincts as you always have."

If there was anything that she could trust in this world, it was her instincts. Tayuya looked back to the despicable wretch that forced her to learn that lesson.

For as long as Tayuya could remember, it had been just her, the ruby rug on her head, and her worn out woodwind. Shoeless soles and a starving stomach were her signature as she would stumble through the slums of wherever she was, until a kind feminine face arrived offering to whisk her and the other transient children away from this hardship. At the time, her instincts told her to avoid this person at all costs, but her stomach was happy to accept the nourishing treats he brought along. Tayuya was a young girl who was far too hungry to reject a free meal, instincts or no. Unfortunately, that meal like any she had come across, wasn't free for it would cost Tayuya her freedom.

It was a bitter memory. A simple set of bites leading to a blackout. When the little girl regained her wits, she was in a large, candlelit room with the litter of kids that crawled the streets alongside her. That's when that kind and generous voice spoke out from all directions, informing them that all the meals and might was theirs for the taking. All that was required was the slaying of their fellow straplings. Tayuya never even had the chance to protest before being blessed with a barbaric blow to the head.

The memory was always a bit fuzzy after that. Red, due to her head wound perhaps, or maybe because of her hair splaying widely before her eyes. Though the more reasonable assumption was the blood the children were managing to spill.

They were not fighters.

They had known struggle, but not combat. The children devolved to their baser instincts, using their natural weaponry to do as much damage as possible. That sweet sounding voice ripped them from the only life they ever knew, just to have them take part in a bloody battle royal, and the pouncing prepubescents were forcing her participation. Tayuya didn't know how she survived against all those children, especially the larger boys that swarmed her. She summed it up to being sturdy and tough, summoning forth the strength to jab her flute deep within several of her now enemies. The red head knew when to duck and dodge. When to punch and kick. When to wait and when to kill, for she had her instincts and her trusty tool.

At the end of it all, laid before Tayuya was everyone she had ever known. Their eyes lifeless, the laughs taking from them, yet she remained and that meant hope. That was until, a searing pain soared through the side of her neck. Tayuya crumbled to the floor and before the scene ends, he appears. Chuckles, some stupid talk about being a good subject and being branded for something more.

Ever since, Tayuya hungered for those days where her stomach ached for sustenance and her flute hummed for fun. Now she was full, but so very empty, and it was all because of the snake.

"TAYUYA!"

"I see you're still having some difficulty processing your feelings, but I trust my instincts and they tell me you'll make the right choice."

Naruto reached into his haori, fished around and pulled out a thick black talisman with his clan insignia proudly splayed on top, along with some other characters.

"Take this. . . If you're interested, everything you need to know is inside."

Tayuya caught the paper and was instantly intrigued with what she could see hidden deep.

"If I'm right, we'll meet again, cousin."

Tayuya felt drawn to the smile. Drawn to the boy. Drawn to anything that wasn't this.

"TAYUYA! LET'S GO!"

Conflicting concepts ran through her mind before she begrudgingly reversed her summoning.

"Was it wise to let them escape, Naruto-sama? They'll be coming for you now."

"It's probably for the best, my lady. I would have hated for one of my clansmen to be harmed in a needless scuffle. That, and if I'm being honest, I could use a breather."

"It's over, right? No more crazy shit?"

Kiba, Shino, and Sakura approached the imperial trio, with the latter inquiring for their safety.

"It's over for now, but danger looms around every corner."

"Geez. . . You guys are some real freaks."

This experience weighed heavily on the Inuzuka, for his grasp on reality was torn away. He was left like all before him, drowning in a vast sea of questions.

Sakura placed a hand on Kiba's shoulder and once she got his attention, shared with him a stern look and a disapproving head shake. It seemed he understood her message.

"Well with all that nonsense out of the way, why don't we leave this forsaken place before someone charges us for the damages."

"A good call. I do wonder how the onlookers will react to all they witnessed."

Those with senses heightened enough noticed strange entities floating through the air.

Bats, zipping through the air, maneuvering around what resembled eyeballs floating like pollen in the wind.

"Before we leave, lady Hinata. Naruto-sama, what was going on with your chakra earlier and that chain you used in the end?"

"I don't really know anything about my chakra. I mean it felt a bit different while I was fighting. . . As for the chain, it was like one of my regular ones, but a bit different. . . It was lighter, yet it felt sturdier and more flexible. Also, it felt like it could go anywhere! As far as I want or appear from wherever. It was like I could envision chains everywhere."

"What an odd explanation, Naruto-sama. Though I hope it was satisfactory, Lord Uchiha."

"Yes, it is. I suppose we'll have to look into it further at a later time. For now, let's leave this desert."

"Agreed. Now, if you don't mind, I could use a hand. I'm pretty tired."

Naruto stretched out his hand expecting to receive his knight's in return, yet all he was given was Sasuke's signature stoic stare.

"Sasuke?"

*BOOM*

"What the fuck!? Isn't he your king or something!? Why the hell are you hitting him like that!?"

It had been a while since the pinkette's voice had reached this piercing decibel, and while it was infuriating, Sasuke was far too engrossed in all that had transpired in the brief moment.

Sasuke too had been training extensively when he had the time, pushing his Hatsu as far as his limits would allow. In that time, he felt the connection deepen with his own energy. His power was wild and took much to control it, almost like it yearned to be tamed and once Sasuke did so, it rewarded its master. Its reach extended, its speed hastened, its efficiency increased, and its difficulty of use lessened. He felt it communicate with him, trying to help him achieve the best possible outcome. All Sasuke needed to do was listen, so listen he did.

The knight looked down at his Ko enhanced fist and to his surprise, his aura encapsulated mitt had similar energy fluctuations as his lord had displayed. The deepest blues and richest purples flapped around, soaring throughout his aura as if it were the infinite night sky.

His head spiked with pain as he felt the back of his eyes burn in searing agony. Flashes of unknown entities with horns, covered in lines and eyes absorbed his thoughts. They were colossuses that drafted even the largest mountain ranges the boy had ever laid eyes on. They reached their gargantuan hands, with them approaching the boy quickly, but then mist similar to his, albeit far opaquer, surrounded all. The giants would be wrapped in the ultramarine miasma and with a bellow, the visions ceased.

"Now Lord Uchiha, was that really necessary?"

Everyone was now staring at the Uchiha, waiting for his explanation.

"That was strange. . ."

"Yea it was strange! The hell are you doing hitting your teammate!?"

"Kiba, hush! Now, please explain what was strange."

His tone of voice was what was really strange to Hinata, so she figured that instead of it being a bout of pettiness, he must have had a good reason for his actions.

"Lady Hinata, did you see how Naruto-sama blocked my attack?"

"Unfortunately, no. I'm not ashamed to say you were too fast in your assault, and he in his retaliation for me to have witnessed."

Hacking could be heard from the dust and rubble to the side of them. Sasuke's strike careened the King into the carved canyon wall, resulting in a decent sized dust cloud.

"Damn. Guess I deserved that one."

The dust began to clear, allowing all to see Naruto with one of his trusty chains on guard.

"Is that. . . An arm?"

Shino couldn't contain his curiosity this time as the dust cleared.

He had been witnessed a shinobi showdown that was leagues beyond anything he had thought possible and seen his former classmate perform feats that were mind boggling.

This one was certainly strange though, for lack of a better word.

Obsidian links held strong, glistening down their length until reaching the base of the structure. Just a bit past the elbow, to its hand, was one of his majesty's magnificent arms.

"That would explain why he isn't harmed. . ."

Maybe it was her woman's intuition or her heightened senses, but Hinata couldn't fight off the goosebumps rising on her person.

"I thought you said it was over!" Sakura cried as this was going to be such a tedious report to recount, especially with that scary scowl Kakashi developed whenever referring to his male students.

"That was then, this is now. As to what I asked you, Hinata. . . I've been by our lord's side for years now. We faced battle as each other's allies and opponents many times and yet, Naruto-sama has never once used Asura in that manner."

"Really? Is it so alarming that he would defend himself against someone of your strength through such means?"

"Very much so, for that technique is meant for offense and offense only. It takes too much energy and time to form. The reason he never blocks with it is because he can't."

"Yet he conjured an entire arm, on a chain no less."

Hinata turned her gaze to Sasuke staring down at his hand, with multi-colored flames of indigo hue cowling it.

"Yes. . . Things are going to get very interesting, and it's all thanks to his majesty."

"Hey! Can I get a bit of help here? I feel like I can hardly-"

Naruto began to rise off his rear, but darkness suddenly overtook him. He fainted, stumbling back into the small hole he just came out of, with the Asura chain receding.

"My lord!"

His attendants appeared by his side in no time at all while the others were left theorizing on why these three were the way they were.

On the surface all looked well. No wounds or bruises to cause alarm.

"My lord, wake up!"

As Hinata reached down to shake him awake, ebony waves emerged from every pore on the boy's body. Chain after chain looping around until all that was left was a rattling cocoon.

"This certainly is new."

"Indeed. . . I've never witnessed him do anything like this before."

The two curiously poked and prodded the shimmering swathe to no avail.

It remained still, besides for the links naturally swaying like waves on the sea. The only other curious observation were the prismatic pulses running up and down like static through neurons.

"Guys, I get that you're dealing with. . . Whatever the hell that is, but we've got incoming, and they've got the same stink as everyone that's been trying to kill us."

Kiba risked their wraths to deliver the warning.

"As much as I'd like my chance to embarrass Orochimaru's men, we have no idea what's going on with Naruto-sama. Getting out of here before it gets too dark is our safest bet."

The knight surveyed the cocoon for the best grips in which to hold it. As if to assist him, several chains looped around to make straps resembling those found on a backpack, allowing Sasuke to carry it on his back.

"You three, Hinata and I are about to move very fast. We need you to try your best to keep up. We'll be looking out for you, but we have our priorities, for we won't be able to move on without one another."

"What are you talking about? You guys might be friends or whatever, but we're friends with Hinata too and teammates! We've got each other's back, so you worry about your team, right Hinata?"

"It's as Lord Uchiha stated. . . He and I have our priorities, so see to it that you watch your own backs as much as possible."

Burst of debris and crashing rubble were becoming the norm for the exam. This time, the perpetrators happened to be two teens. The same Kiba had caught a whiff of, approaching from the end of the path.

"HEY! DON'T MOVE!"

It was hard to make them out, for one of them was responsible for the chain of explosions.

The screamer of the two could be identified by his spiky, black hair, dark eyes, and a beige shirt with two black stripes and three prints of the kanji for death down the front. By his side, his teammate stood hunched over. Bandages covered most of the teen's face, leaving only his left eye and eyebrow uncovered. He also wore a large poncho with long sleeves, a snake patterned scarf around his neck, a straw raincoat protruding from the back of his scarf, and a large metal gauntlet on his right arm.

"Zaku, relax! You're making it so we can't see a damn thing!"

"The mission's to kill the Uchiha, so why give him a chance to defend himself?!"

"Dumbass! All you're doing is giving him a better chance to escape!"

"Keep talking Dosu, then you'll end up being the one I kill."

The swarm of sand and scraps that overtook the air made it difficult for everyone to see, but when Shino, Sakura and Kiba looked around for the others, they had noticed Hinata and Sasuke far in the distance.

All they could do is push through and try to keep the grains from entering any unsavory areas.

"There's no need to worry about them, but what is happening with you, Naruto-sama? What were those visions I had? And what's this feeling?"

Again, his attention was brought down to his hand, alight with his chakra, with small embers with deeper hues then his usual.

"You've always kept things interesting. . .Helping me see a world I was never meant to…I suppose this is just the next step isn't it, my King?"

Unknown Location

It was perfect.

It stood there as if conjured from a storybook or a tale he would've heard as a child.

Slim ornate braziers surrounded twelve ebony columns, lighting up the lower levels of the hall and bathing it in an iridescent glow. The columns each had a network of lines, running with a myriad of multicolored lights. Walls and walls of pristine, shimmering gold, sharing the same line partnered that was carved into the columns. Naruto felt as if the gold surrounding him served as a reminder to the king that his heart and soul should always be the much like the marvelous metal, for it's true beauty peered though when lit by the loving light.

The ceiling was non-existent. In its place was a canopy of darkness enriched by optical light resembling a rosette, with so much richness and detail one would believe that gods had sculpted it. Its splendor reflected well on the dark mirrored surface the young man stood on. Light circulating veins on perfect parallels

Sharing the space were a series of gears and cogs, some with finishes matching the sky above while others had either a raven or golden varnish to them. Their teeth grinded away, fitting within each other's spaces perfectly, yet the gears were connected to nothing. They just turned away within the void.

On the peak of a long, obsidian slab rested a lavish throne, carved out of the same material. Fine gold accents and filigree wrapped around its glorious form with such precision. Light circulating veins of perfect parallels all converged on the emasculate throne, with the array of colors the glittered all over becoming several shades of crimson as they reached it. Floating directly above such a mighty seat, was what might have been the most captivating piece in the entire place.

A spherical framework of concentric gears, with their teeth fitting perfectly with each other, revolved at a steady pace around an object. It resembled an ancient device used by past generations for astrological studies. Upon further inspection, it was identified as an orb, containing an entire space-scape.

As the monarch continued to gaze into the sphere with its mystical rings circling it, he felt all become immaterial. Space and time themselves become more malleable, as if he could actually shape the fabric of reality to his design.

Every minuscule specification, every opulent ornament, all was borne before him. Naruto circled around to check the hall and regardless of him being thrown into a foreign land, he felt perfect.

"Isn't it glorious?"

Blood red pupils locked with eyes of blue as Naruto scanned for the voice's source.

In front of him was a feminine figure, floating in a black long-sleeved dress with vermillion linings. Patches of her neutral toned skin like her feet and legs were also covered in a similar red line pattern. There wasn't much to say for the girl's appearance, except for the pair of carmine-colored horns protruding from her head, translucent veins engrained surging with power.

"Who are you, and where am I?"

"You know there's no reason to ask such a question. . . You know where we are, and you know who we are. . ."

Her voice sounded as if there were many others lurking in the background of hers, like echoing whispers.

"This is our home, created by our almighty monarch. . ."

The woman pointed towards the top of the throne for Naruto to see a figure sitting on it.

The man was adorned in a black and white trench coat with a fur-lined hood, a pair of combat boots and pants to match. His hands were covered by gloves matching the rest of his ensemble, having a curious golden crest rising out of the back of each one. Even though he was some distance away and fully clothed, his slim yet muscular build peered through. His piercing large eyes and vertical pupils allowed his impressive mental fortitude and strength through sight alone. A spiky untamed mane with two licks of hair standing up like horns on his head, had such a luxurious sheen as expected from a man of nobility. What really caught the boy's eye was the color of these features, a dazzling red. A shade that could only be obtained by those blessed to be Uzumaki.

"Who is that. . ?"

What he couldn't wrap his mind around is why this entity looked so much like him. Besides a few differences physically and in wardrobe, they could pass for the same person.

"That is our Lord, our light, our life. . . This place is a reflection of the king's will. . . Created as a world for him to do whatever he pleased. A domain for him to be himself."

His eyes were fixed to this man, and a twinge of envy stung the boy's chest.

"While we are our lord's power. . . As long as he wills it, we shall exist to do his bidding, and provide him with his heart's desire."

Everything around him looked like something he would've dreamt up for this was most definitely a throne fit for a king. Though something was still amiss. Why was he here? He had just been sucker punched by his second in command, but was it enough to knock him into a dream like this?

"This feels all too right to be a dream, doesn't it? That would be due to this not being one. . . At Least, not in the traditional sense."

Was his expression that easy to read, or was it something more? Regardless, the girl was correct. All of this filled the boy with something he had searched for his whole life.

"This world. It's almost as if I had a hand at creating it. . ."

"You did. . . Our lord."

The mysterious madam bowed to the blonde who was still trying to piece this all together. Instead of shock or confusion though, his face grew into a look of intrigue and glee.

"You seem a bit overjoyed by this news."

"It's a bit embarrassing to say that I was jealous. . . This place is like a dream come true!"

"You are definitely a strange one, lord. . . Yes, you created all you see here through your desires. We took it upon ourselves to get the finer things ironed out."

"This is like an inner world? If this is within me, where's Kurama-san?"

"Unfortunately, there are still complications and while you are accessing this space, you don't seem to be able to do so freely. . . Not yet anyways."

"And you are a creation of mine as well? Wait, were you the voice Kurama-san and I were hearing earlier?"

"Of course. . . We've communicated before. You were even kind enough to bestow us with an epithet and a name."

"I'm sorry, but I don't remember ever seeing you before. I'm not sure what name I could've possibly bestowed you. Would you mind telling me?"

"Unfortunately, we can't. . . You must speak our name."

"It would only make sense that a creation of mine would be so cryptic. . . I do have another question. Why do you keep referring to yourself as if you're more than one being?"

"Because you wanted many trusted allies. . . We were happy to oblige."

How could he not enjoy such a cute smile?

"Alright, so if this is my world, why is someone else on the throne?"

"What you see before you are what I will become, same as our majesty placed upon the throne."

This comment earned a strong look of befuddlement from the king.

"It's been a while since I've been left this confused. . . Are you telling me that I'm looking at the future?"

A nervous chuckle escaped his lips.

"Our lord can be so silly. . . It would be more accurate to say that we are possibilities. . . A future to be created by your desires."

"You're starting to sound like Okaasan. . . She's always telling me that what I yearn for internally, my power will create externally."

"Even the course of history itself…"

Of course she would finish Tiamat's saying.

"Do you remember your first lesson under her instruction, Naruto-sama?"

"The concept of existence...That we are our essence first and foremost. All else is determined based on that essence. . . Those that understand this, can tap into a deeper sense of self, and be able to unlock that even fate would seal away."

It was something that Naruto thought about frequently.

It was like a mantra of sorts, motivating his strive towards a more profound understanding of all.

"Will. Resolve. Drive. Desire. . . There are many terms for it, but by harnessing this force, the essence of self and the essence of all, there is nothing that can't be bent to your design...And you will have that power, our lord!"

The woman floated around the chamber though they're vision never parted.

This was the strength he had longed for since he was a lonely lad. The boy wanted to be able to change everything, even the outcome of the future. Now, it was in sight! The future he wanted just needed to be created.

"I love that look in your eyes, oh lord! You look famished!"

He couldn't stop himself from laughing maniacally. Their demeanors matched each other well.

"I certainly am! I never imagined all of this in my wildest dreams, but it seems I have far more to reach for!"

"You are more than the beast trapped within you. You are more than the legacy your parentage left you. You are more than the kingdom that you've created, our dear lord…You are more!"

The red-haired copy suddenly crashed on the ground.

When he stood to his full height, Naruto noticed he was a bit taller but there was no mistaking it. They were one and the same.

"They tried to trap you, yet you were one step ahead. . . They tried to starve you, yet you were far too resourceful. . . They tried to kill you, yet they underestimated you and led them to a grueling demise, because you exceed anything these pathetic mortals could fathom."

The clone let out a breath that cooled down the entire hall. Otherworldly energy swirled in his crimson eyes, as he flexed the might of an emperor.

A thin veil of aura a hue darker than his mane, covered the man as Naruto felt utterly overwhelmed. It was less like the man was exuding power, and more like he was calling it to him. As if a stampede of strength from all directions was rushing to bow at his feet.

"This! I'll be able to. . . ?!"

The boy barely got the words out before the overwhelming pressure multiplied in intensity.

Naruto didn't notice when he was brought to a knee and struggled to look up, but when he did that majesty of the man was not lost on him.

The ruler's aura wafted around him in such a divine manner. Resembling the canopy above, he was adorned in the vermillion cosmos themselves, with the shining minuscule stars accentuating all his splendid features.

"Others meddle or amuse themselves in heartless ways. Yet, when one has fully tapped into the creative forces, the energy of existence, we all become one, one team more than one being, yet one that is so much more than many!"

The maiden approached the downed prince, and with a touch to the cheek all the weight lifted from his shoulders.

She lifted his head and abducted his focus. The young lord saw the scenes of his past play through her eyes. In each sequence, even if he hadn't known it at the time, he saw them.

Chains.

Link after Link.

Providing, defending, comforting and evolving, all for him.

"We've been here to help. We've always been. . . A tool to accomplish all of your aspirations. A being to provide you with all the care and attentiveness you would need. A bridge of sorts, to connect the reality you wish to create with the reality you reside in. . ."

She had been watching over him his whole life.

"King's Guard. . . !?"

Her response was a gentle smile and a corresponding head shake.

"That is the epithet. . . Our lord, say our name so we can become our true selves."

The struggle was evident on Naruto's face. He had no idea what she was talking about, and yet it was on the tip of his tongue.

"You are what is, but shouldn't be. . . You are everything destiny despises, for you can't be predicted and once set free, you'll never be controlled. . . You are Paradox! And we, are you keepers. . ."

The hall became more vibrant with dazzling lights. The sky above them sparkling with white shimmers as they danced.

Naruto's eyes adopted a similar effect as his doppelganger, but the swirling in his eyes matched his shade.

"Yes! That is your power, our lord! Something far greater than anything possessed by your predecessors. . . You will take what's yours. . . What's etched in your essence. Whether that be your Uzumaki heritage or. . . Whatever else might be locked within your infinite continuum."

The sensation overtook the boy, for he felt everything around him and beyond. As if his being was reaching out and back to him. Like everything was alive, and ready to be interacted with.

"All you need to do is take the controls…I know it still might be early, our dear lord, but your metamorphosis is already underwa. . . You've been pushing your being for quite some time and it's strange to see someone praise their power the way you do. . . Like you know how much joy it brings us!"

"P-p-p-"

The expression on her face was one of pure elation. The gears surrounding them sped up frantically as the young lass became flushed.

"Go ahead, Our lord. . . Our everything. . . Say our name and we will become everything you've wanted!"

His eyes expressed his revelation. The king wanted an answer so he willed one and the grin on the girl's face couldn't have been wider.

"Your name is-"

Naruto halted as all the strength left him abruptly. Consciousness was slowly slipping out of his grasp and so was his balance.

"It would appear that it's still too early. . . We need to grow a bit more, bond a bit more and in due time. . . You'll call for us and we will give you your world. . . For now, get your rest. . . Your body is in need of it."

His vision was fleeting, but before leaving him he caught a glimpse of more mysticism in this great hall.

Swirls of red, much like the ones floating above their heads, came to like all around him. From these tiny galaxies, birthed bindings of his favorite color. Melding together seamlessly and silently, they formed arms the same as the woman's left and right. Each grabbing onto their lord, ceasing his downward momentum.

"We are more than mortals, beasts or demons. . . We are extraordinary!"

It was a sweet lullaby. One that helped carry him to a dream land, though one could imagine it wasn't far off from this.

Akagahara

"What if we're too late!? You lazy bums sure took your time to come and get me!"

"Woman, now is not the time for your troublesome attitude of yours."

"Shikamaru's right, Ino. We just need to hurry and get something to eat."

"Both of you are absolutely hopeless! How did I end up stuck with you two bozos is beyond me! I bet everyone else is sitting pretty, laughing at how slow we are."

"You shouldn't be so hung up on what other people think. Besides, we are out of that hellhole. . ."

"And look! It's Asuma-sensei!"

Team 10 stumbled along through the rocky exit back to the mundane with the scarps, bruises and filth as a reminder of what went on.

Their time in the man-made desert came with its difficulties and stressors. After much deliberation at the beginning of the second part, the team had nominated Ino to be saved. They didn't have too much of a plan for finding her once the exam started but figured that Shikamaru and Choji would have an easy enough time doing so.

They didn't.

"Hey guys. . . Thought I was going to have to send in a search party."

The defeated look the boy's carried told Asuma that his joke wasn't received well.

The boys spent their time dodging and rolling out of mishap after mishap. Attacking teams, vindictive surroundings and dangerous wildlife left the two walking on eggshells the whole stay, always being one step away from demise. However, all they were getting for their efforts were comments and criticisms.

"If I knew that these idiots were going to take this long, then I would've suggested one of them get tied up like a damn pig for the roast!"

Even Though she was hollering her head off, their sensei knew that the choice of having Ino be hostage was probably best.

Shikamaru and Choji were respectively the brains and brawn of their team, with Ino acting as more of a wild card or a support. Sending either of the boys as the captive could've put them at a considerable disadvantage.

"Please, just tell us if we passed the stupid second part of the exam."

"Yes. . . Well, more like sort of."

"What the hell does "sort of" mean?" The lethargic tone that usually defined Shikamaru was replaced with one of rare anger.

"We're gonna have to walk and talk. You guys don't have much time left to dally."

The team broke out in a swift march, being led by their sensei.

"So, what did you mean when you said we sort of passed?"

"Well not to burst your bubbles, but a bunch of teams finished by the first night."

"SEE! I KNEW IT! You guys took way too long! Now we're gonna be laughing stocks in the village. . ."

"I doubt anyone cares about what place we finished. It wasn't a race." Shikamaru was correct, but Ino's comment had a bit more truth to it than the genin could ever know.

The instructors had some side action on how well the genin would do, and while Asuma was sure that Kakashi and Guy's stacked teams would finish quickly, he certainly thought his team would beat out others like team 8 to the finish. It would've been great to have bragging rights and some walking around money, but it must not have been in the cards.

"Besides, it was insane there the whole first day!"

"You sure you aren't exaggerating, Choji? No offense, but I've had you guys walking dogs and painting fences and that was insane. . ."

"Choji's serious, Asuma-sensei. The first day was us basically laying low and running for our lives while trying to find Ino. No matter how many times we try to explain it to her, she can't seem to wrap her head around it."

"I can wrap my head around plenty! What I can't understand is why we had to be the last team?!"

"Ino, several of the other captives were able to free themselves on the first day, without the assistance of their teammates. Any reason why you couldn't?"

The response was harsh yet warranted.

Choji and Shikamaru hadn't been under Asuma's care for too long, but he could tell when something was wrong. Their eyes were different. Stained with the harsh reality of their profession. The time within was short, yet Asuma could see its effects were everlasting. They didn't need any more stressors.

"But! But!"

Her teammates were clearly tired, and her sensei wasn't amused with her attitude. This was a team event, however she just more or less waited around to be rescued without contributing much.

"Yea, I get it. . . Sorry guys."

"It's cool. We get that you're upset, just remember we're on your team."

"Well said, Choji. But c'mon, it couldn't have been that bad?"

"In the first hour, all hell broke loose. . . A bunch of the teams started gunning for each other immediately."

"There were explosions, earthquakes and landslides until it got dark. We had to be really careful not to die in the craziness. Shikamaru and I wanted to move at night, but there were guards everywhere."

"Yea. We overheard a couple of them talking and apparently, a bunch of guards got killed earlier. Saw a couple bodies as we were moving too. . ."

Asuma was well aware of the situation and of its perpetrator. Nevertheless, he feigned his ignorance and continued to listen.

"A bunch of teams got the snot whipped out of them by guards, though there was one team that handled them like they were nothing."

"And who was that?"

Asked Asuma.

"Some mummy, a guy with sunglasses, and the other guy was so pale you thought he was a ghost. . . They took down three of the guards with minimal effort. It was so bad the pale one had to tell the others not to kill them."

"Guess no one can blame you guys for not rushing to your dooms. You handle things very well."

Try as he might, Asuma couldn't recall any genin fitting the description given.

Between the explosive rampage of the first part, the death of several of their guarding shinobi and having one of the most notorious men running around their village, the last thing they needed was uncertainty concerning who their allies were.

"Sensei, you never told us if we passed."

"Well, here's the thing. . . Turns out there's a bunch of strong contenders this year. So much in fact, that we've got too many people to proceed to the final part."

"What does that mean?"

Ino asked as they stopped in front of Konoha Academy's training hall.

"It means part two, has a part two."

The bearded man swung open the doors and led his team to an arena area.

The room could be compared to a keyhole. The center contained the battle arena. The blade, a platform leading to a massive screen and two large hands, forming a ram sign. There stood the purple haired woman that sent them towards chaos only a few days ago. Above, were floating bleachers with a balcony for one to get a closer look of the battles below.

"Took you long enough, Asuma. Usually, we're left waiting on Hatake's slow ass."

Anko quipped while tapping her heel.

"I'm here now, and I brought the last contestants."

The members of team 10 looked around to see who happened to pass and who was left behind.

The left side of the room held the participants whose identities they were unsure of, including the sand siblings and who could be assumed to be their Jōnin sensei. A significantly tall man, sporting two distinctive, red markings on the right side of his face. The rest of the man's facial features were hidden behind his turban-like headgear and a sheet hanging from it on the left side of his face. The man's attire looked much like that of their own sensei except for a couple of color differences and such, donning the standard attire of a Suna-nin, complete with a forehead protector and flak jacket.

Also present were the group of musical note flaunting shinobi. Beside them was a darkly cladded man with attire similar to the others with a flak jacket and all. A closer look showed that the man had dark hair he kept in a ponytail, somewhat feminine facial features, and a black pair or rimmed glasses.

Lastly, there was one more team that, while they wore Konoha's insignia, Asuma wasn't too sure who they were, but two of his own recognized the team just fine. The deadly trio of the mummy, the one with the glasses and their pale who just smiled and waved.

On the right, the team was happy to see most of the neighborly mugs they had come to know. The Jōnin instructors stood beside their teams. Team guy was scrapped up a little, nothing to worry about though. Team 8 looked well rested and refreshed which upset Ino as she could tell they were one of the early finishers. The smug look Hinata shot at her didn't help the blonde's mood at all, but she was way too tired from rushing over here to give it more thought. Then there was team 7, minus their resident ruler. Sakura and her pink dress, Sasuke in his grey and black skintight shirt and his giant metal backpack.

"Wait, what?" Ino abruptly blurted out, confused by the glowing object the Uchiha was carrying.

"What was that Ino?"

"Umm. . . Nothing, sorry Asuma-sensei."

"You idiots want to move your asses so we can get started!? Don't know if you notice, but we're waiting on you!"

Anko shouted.

A quick survey around the room had all eyes on them, and none of them looked all that friendly. After shrinking back and letting out a couple of sheepish chuckles, the team made their way up to the stands to join their comrades.

"Hey guys, glad to see you all made it."

"Same. You guys cut it pretty close."

Kiba and Shino were the first to greet the team.

They felt bad for the new arrivals, especially after getting a spoiler of what this part entailed.

"I don't know how you guys made it out so fast. Didn't you come across any of the crazy shit we did?"

"We went through plenty. . . Honestly, I think we just got lucky."

Kiba thought back on the deadly day they had in the desert.

They ran, they fought, and had front row seats while they were shown how weak they were. If it weren't for the people they had accompanying, the Inuzuka didn't know if he would've made it out alive.

"Speaking of luck, where's Naruto?"

The aggressive expressions on both Sasuke and Hinata's face was enough to make the blonde flinch. She quickly regretted her little comment.

"Chill out! They've been on edge for the past couple of days. . . That thing lighting up on Sasuke's back, that's Naruto."

Kiba whispered into Ino's ear to prevent her brash words from getting everyone punished.

"What!?"

"Shhhh. . . We'll tell you more later. For now, just relax and listen, Ino."

Once Sakura jumped in, the message they tried to convey had been delivered, causing Ino to shrink into the background.

"Alright boys and girls! You all did good getting this far and passing the second part. Some of you, better than others. Unfortunately, not enough of you bit the dust, so before the next part we're gonna have ourselves a preliminary round to thin the herd."

"Preliminary round?"

"What the hell would be the point of that? Let's just get right into the next part!"

Murmurs with blurts here and there took over the room before Anko seized it back.

"We're having a preliminary round for a couple reasons, kiddies. A bunch of important people will be coming from all over with the hopes of seeing what each village participating can do. We aren't gonna waste their time for anything less than the best. With that being said, whoever comes out on top today gets a shot at bigger and better things. The losers, shame. . . or worse. But if you want to avoid some of that pain, you can quit right now. It won't even negatively reflect on your teammates."

This news did nothing to deter those present.

It had been a struggle to get this far, so why throw in the towel now?

"You guys think you're a bunch of tough bastards, huh? Fine. The rules are simple. From this point on, each of you will have to rely on your own skills as you'll be going head-to-head with each other in one-on-one matches. The victor will be determined by knockout, surrender, inability to participate, or my favorite, death."

Various smiles and smirks appeared on several faces while frightened frowns latched on to others.

"The combatants will be randomly selected, and your names will appear on the screen above. Once called, you will have 1 minute to approach for your match or be disqualified. Any questions?"

None. Just a crowd of varied expressions.

"Before we get started, anyone want to volunteer for the first round?"

"ME! ME! RIGHT HERE!"

The uproar came from the right of the room where a green pinball bounced around.

"Lee! Cut it out!"

"You're making us look like fools."

"That's it, Lee! Believe in your youth and there's nothing you can't do!"

"Leave it to Guy and his weirdos to cause a scene."

"Settle down. . . It was just a joke, kid. The first match has already been decided."

Anko gestured to the massive monitor, calling it to life.

"First match of the preliminary round is Kiba Inuzuka Vs Kankuro. Make your way to the center."

"Damn. First and going against one of them. . . I don't envy you."

Shikamaru wasn't usually the type to chime in unnecessarily, though he couldn't help himself.

"According to Sasuke, each of those Suna shinobi are dangerous with the redhead being the worst. In a way, you kinda dodged a bullet."

Sakura trying her best to help calm the nerves.,

"Thanks guys, you sure know how to cheer a guy on. . ."

"Don't psych yourself out. You've been training relentlessly for this exam. Give it your best and I know you'll win."

Kurenai offered some reassurance and a supportive hand on the shoulder.

Kiba was always the type to hit the ground running, more so than ever once Hinata made her change and began using Naruto as the benchmark for all. He put in more effort than she'd seen from a genin in a while so she knew he was a lot stronger than most would assume.

"Kiba."

"Yea, Hinata?"

Her reminiscent tone immediately caught his attention.

"Give it your all. I'm aware that you're strong, but here's the chance to show it to everyone else. Just like you've always wanted."

This was the Hinata he had known, and though she had made some cosmetic changes, Kiba knew deep down she was still the Hyuuga he adored.

"Leave it to me, Hinata! Akamaru and I are gonna bring back the first victory for team 8!"

The excitement burst forth in a fit or energy.

With it, the boy with ninken in toe leaped off the balcony to land center ring.

"I get to have some fun first, then kick back and watch everyone else suffer? Not a bad setup."

"I suggest you take this seriously, Kankuro. You have no idea what your opponent is capable of, and you need to do everything in your power to make it to the next round. Failure isn't an option."

"Don't worry, Baki-sensei. The kid's as good as dead."

Kankuro took more of a slow and steady approach, arriving in the ring before his time ran out.

"Fool. . . If he fails, that will just mean he's less valuable than the Uzumaki's tagalongs."

Gaara saw no reason for his brother to be so arrogant, for his victory would be a matter of luck rather than one of merit.

"Just surrender and let's speed this along. You heard the fine young lady. Time is important."

"No way! I'm about to beat you up and down this arena."

"Good luck. You won't have the Uzumaki or Uchiha to protect you here."

Kankuro removed the large bandaged item from his back as he laid into the boy.

Thanks to his brother, Kankuro was aware that the kid had basically been escorted out of Akagahara by stronger allies. The case was similar to his own, though the boy didn't need to know that. Plus, that scrunched up scowl on Kiba's face was exactly what Kankuro was aiming for.

"Good to see you kids are full of energy! Why don't you use it to try and kill each other? Let the first match begin!"

Both teens hopped back towards the edges of the arena.

"Here's the plan. I'll go in first and you'll watch my back. We'll see what this guy can do, got it boy?"

Akamaru let out some lively yaps as affirmation.

"It's time! I'll make it so everyone's saying my name with my beast mimicry!"

He began a feral transformation once he finished a set of hand signs. Elongated canines, his finger and toenails grew sharper and thick like callus claws, and his eyes gained a beastly slit.

This beastly appearance was his strength. This was his chance.

Kiba wasn't going to be known as just some subpar shinobi with enough skill to skate by, he would be a legend for sure. And with Hinata's focus being on him for a change, he wasn't going to blow the opportunity to show it.

Those in the bleachers watched eagerly, waiting for either of the teens to make the first move.

"So Kakashi, I see you're missing a brat. What, he ran off before we got here?"

"Nope. . . I've been told it's more appropriate to think that he's sleeping."

The silver haired shinobi flipped through several pages of his, not paying a lick of mind to his colleague.

"That thing on the Uchiha's back happens to be Naruto."

"How? Why?!"

"Beats me. I don't get answers to those types of questions. Though it was reported to happen after a fight in Akagahara. . . From the time they made it out, he's been in that."

"Why don't you just get him out of there, Kakashi?"

"That is none of your concern. What is, would be your student down there, fighting for his future."

"Hinata, I suggest you mind your manners. I'm still your sensei."

"For now. . ."

"What was that young lady?"

"Let's let it go, Kurenai. All the kids are a little on edge from how tough the exam's been so far. I'm sure she didn't mean it."

Kurenai got very frustrated quickly due to Hinata's rude behavior but decided to take Asuma's advice.

She recalled the children weren't in the highest of spirits upon completing the second part. Plus, the Hyuuga had a point, she should be paying attention as Kiba's match unfolded.

"Anyways. . . let's watch on. I've got the feeling this will be an entertaining match."

Chapter Thirteen End

Author's Notes: Hello everyone thanks for reading the 13th Chapter of Naruto: Paradox!

This month was my birthday, hence why it took me a bit longer to put out this chapter, but I enjoyed writing many parts of it and just letting my imagination flow. I'm also really happy with the chapter length and hope that I'll be able to keep them in this range of length for the future.

Want to thank all the new fans and followers of the story, as well as the old ones for the continued support. It is always the motivation I need to put my heart and soul into this piece and has even got me thinking of maybe writing another story. I've been thinking about this Bleach X Kamen Rider Idea for a little now, but I definitely want this story far more developed before I actually publish another piece.

If you enjoyed it, please follow and or favorite the story. Please leave a review if you'd like and until next time, have a Paradoxical day!

For visuals:

Nikushimi's appearance is based on Giyu Tomioka's Nichirin Katana for Demon Slayer.

The water-like aura the swords emitted is based on Shinsu from Tower of God. If it makes it easier for some of you, you can base the visuals of the water breathing animations of Demon Slayer.

The space scene and many of the cosmic visuals are based on the Rosette Nebula.

The white-haired woman's appearance is based on Dark Sakura from Fate/stay night: Heaven's Feel, with red lines that resemble Blut Vene from Bleach instead of the red markings she would normally have. She also has horns instead of a ribbon/bow.

The ocular effect described is based on PSYqualia from CardFight Vanguard.

Hatsu List

Naruto Uzumaki- King's Guard: Seemingly sentient onyx chains that Naruto can control and will defend him automatically. They can meld and morph into different forms.

Sasuke Uchiha- Night's Shroud: Sasuke creates an indigo/violet mist he can manipulate and shift to form simple objects. Has a silencing effect.

Shizune- Authority's Assistant: By emitting her chakra through the vibrations in the atmosphere, Shizune forms a link with another person's brain and controls their actions.

Malice Rinha- Godmother: Taking the form of a large woman with puppet-like features, this ability allows malice to make "perfect" clones of those whose chakra she possesses.

Kagura- String Theory:

Bando- Arms Dealer: While dormant, it acts as Bando's left hand. It can transform into one of several forms to fit the needs of the situation.

Zabuza Momochi- Blood Demon:

Haku Momochi- Cold Killer:

Hinata Hyuga- Witch of the Realm:

Emperor's witch: The power of the ability depends on how close the user is to the "emperor".

Influence of understanding: The more Hinata "understands" something, such as its make-up and or its functions, the more she can influence it.

Koyuki Kazahana-?

Karin Uzumaki- All Seeing Eyes:

Tayuya Uzumaki-?

Nagare-?

Hokushin-?

Hōki-?

Hanare-?