A Sage's Mission

by EventualFallOut

The Shinobi world is finally at peace. But an attack from the unknown has put the Shinobi world on edge. Now Naruto and his friends need to get to the bottom on who these beings are, and where they came from. He's not going to let another war plague his home after finally achieving peace: Multi-Cross over. "No copyright infringement is intended."

6. Chapter 6

A Sage's Mission

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Thank you, everyone, who helped clear up the 'king' of a peerage for me, I appreciate it.

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"Speaking"

"Thinking/ conversation with Tailed beast/Sacred Gear within the mind, Scape."

"Tailed Beast/Sacred gear Dragon speaking."

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Chapter 6: The Monkey Sage.

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The sun shined bright over Urakyoto and its citizens, many Youkai of all walks of life going about their day. The sound of the bustling city and chirping birds covered the entire city. While over at the palace; a different sound could be heard.

Outside the palace, in one of its many gardens; that's used more for training than planting. Two people were going at it, the sound of their fists clashing.

Naruto was having a sparring session with his young student, focusing on his Taijutsu skills. "Keep up the pressure Konohamaru; don't give your opponent a chance to recover." Naruto blocked his student's high kick aimed for his face. Konohamaru quickly followed that up with a barrage of fast strikes, first his left fist, then his right; but he was unable to break through Naruto's guard.

Konohamaru then jumped over Naruto, attempting to strike his back. Naruto saw this a mile away and grabbed his leg, bringing him back down to ground level. Naruto slammed him into the ground, then brought him back up and kicked him in his chest, sending Konohamaru flying into the stone wall.

He impacted the stone wall, cracking its surface. Naruto wasn't worried for his student's health, because he knows what he's just done. The dust cleared from the impact. Just as Naruto expected, a wooden log was embedded into the stone wall instead of Konohamaru.

Naruto smirked to himself, before backflipping, dodging Konohamaru's Rasengan; he tried to take his back a second time. But before Naruto landed back on the ground, Konohamaru had a big grin; all part of the plan. Naruto looked at where he was about to land and saw his student's grand strategy. A Paper bomb, "He fully expected me to avoid his Rasengan, nice." This is good, small, but good.

Konohamaru is focusing on quick, simple plans and predicting what Naruto's next move will be. Nothing too complicated, which can be easily derailed if the situation changes. Naruto flipped in mid-air to instead land on the ground with his hands, and he avoided directly touching the paper bomb.

Seeing this, Konohamaru manually detonated it. The explosion covered the training field. Kicking up dirt, dust and scorching the walls surrounding them, the palace itself remained undamaged.

"How's that for pressure." Konohamaru felt great satisfaction, he just outmanoeuvred his sensei.

But just before he could get too full of himself, Naruto landed right behind him, with no injuries. "It was ok." Konohamaru was caught off guard and attempted to swing around to counter whatever Naruto's next move would be. But he was too slow.

Naruto grabbed both of his student's arms and swept his legs to bring him down to the ground. Naruto then pinned him down with his knee, digging into his back. Konohamaru was fully restrained.

"Ow, Ow, Ow!" He fidgeted underneath Naruto's knee, but Konohamaru couldn't break free, "Uncle, uncle!" He knows when he's lost.

"That was a good move Konohamaru, but never let your guard down, even when victory seems apparent, not until you see your enemy fully beaten. Never assume in battle." Konohamaru believed he got Naruto with that last strike and paid the price for it. Naruto was able to push himself off the paper bomb just before it exploded, using the smoke as cover to literally get the drop on his student.

Naruto got up from his position and released his student. Konohamaru shot up from the ground and started rubbing his back, trying to dull the pain. "If I didn't have to worry about my clones then you wouldn't have got me."

They looked to their left, on the other side of the stone walls, sitting on top of three stone pillars were Konohamaru's Shadow Clones. "Don't see them complaining." This was all part of the training Konohamaru needed to do.

Naruto then helped up his student. "You know why we're doing this, right?"

"Yeah, yeah, it's to help prepare me for Sage Jutsus training." Konohamaru moaned a bit about this type of training, but he persevered.

Naruto laughed a little at Konohamaru attitude. "Trust me, you'll be thanking me later, you won't have to get hit by that damn stick as many times as I did." Naruto still remembers all the times the Geezer Sage had to hit him with it to stop him from turning into a toad.

"I just really wish we could get right to the Sage Jutsus training part, becoming a Sage like you would be awesome." When his sensei told him what the plan for his training it, Konohamaru was beyond stoked. He's seen what Naruto could do with Sage power, to be able to do that as well; Konohamaru liked that idea a lot.

Naruto placed his hand on Konohamaru's head and rubbed his hair. "Konohamaru, Sage Mode training will give you great power, but it's dangerous and a huge responsibility. So don't take it likely." Konohamaru could die if he rushes the training. And even then, a Sage has power not many can safely say they can contend with.

"I...I know, sorry." Sometimes Konohamaru can get ahead of himself. "But I will show you, just like I learned the Rasengan, I'll learn Sage Mode too, just watch me." He could not hold back his grin, showing his resolve; he will master Sage Mode one day, just like his sensei has.

Naruto rubbed Konohamaru's head a bit harder this time, shaking him around a little before letting him go; as he walks passed him. "I can't wait to see you do it, but remember the golden rule Konohamaru."

"There is no short cut to power." Konohamaru understands, but excitement gets the best of everyone.

The training that Konohamaru is doing is twofold. One is to improve his Chakra control, and the other is to train him to be perfectly still. They can do this with Shadow Clones, and sparring sessions at the same time. Konohamaru would have training with Naruto, while his clones would focus on both controlling their Chakra, and reaming still on stone pillars. If they do this together and throw all their focus into it; then the clones would have to balance out what they're doing, while avoiding getting distracted by the original's actions. A simple way to improve one's Chakra control with added pressure; but even with this, Konohamaru is still going to have a challenging time learning Sage Jutsu. This is just to get him better prepared for it than Naruto was when he started it.

The duo walked over to the porch of one of the palace's sliding doors. A little break for them, they've been going at this for hours today. "So where are the girls right now?" Konohamaru hasn't seen them since this morning.

"Right now, Hinata is improving Raphtalia's swordsmanship."

"How? Hinata doesn't use swords."

"Yes but the gentle fist fighting style requires fast and precise strikes and movement, similar to many sword styles out there; so Hinata can give her some tips and tricks to improve on that point." Naruto and Konohamaru are brawlers, not elegant fighters like they are.

They both looked up into the sky, reminiscing on their time spent here. "Hard to believe it's been ten days since we left Konoha." Time sure flies.

Naruto brought his hands behind his head and lied down on the porch. "Did say this mission could take a long time, and we've barely started." The only faction they've met is the Youkai faction. They still need to see the three factions and some of those other guys.

"When do you think we'll seek out the Devils?" That's the faction their most wary off, you would think they would be a higher priority.

Naruto shrugged his shoulders. "Not sure, after the alliance has been fully formed, I guess." Once that's done, they will have a foothold here, then they can get to work for real.

"And when do you think that would be?" A new, gentle, elegant voice interrupted their one on one discussion. Looking to the side, they saw both Yasaka and Kunou. Kunou rushed over to the two Shinobi while Yasaka continued to calmly walk other.

"How is your training proceeding?" Yasaka heard the explosion and got curious; she could see the small amount of destruction on the training field.

Kunou then flumped herself onto Naruto's lap, forcing him to sit up, she's been doing this ever since their first meeting. "It's going well." Naruto had gotten use to Kunou sitting in his lap; it's been happing all the time now.

Yasaka looked on at the sight of Naruto and Kunou for a little while. For some reason, it seemed so normal now. If anything, she was happy that her daughter has a new close friend. "Have you had any word from your village?"

Naruto stroked one of Kunou's ears, and she started to purr a little; she becomes putty in his hands when he does this; he found this weakness of hers out a few days ago. "I know they're having a meeting later today to decided on if they're ready to send someone, and if they do; who they will send to represent the Shinobi Union." A representative will come from the Shinobi world to help push for the alliance.

"I'm glad to hear it." It's been a long week, talking to her councilmen and advisers, getting them all on board for the alliance. Both Naruto and Yasaka informed them about the attack from the Old Satan faction, and this unknown individual or group threatening both their people. But the representative from Naruto's world will be the one to tell them about the whole 'from another world' thing.

Yasaka then sat next to Naruto, this peacefulness was quite pleasing; even with what is looming other them all right now; and relaxing like this was pleasant. But she still had something on her mind. "Naruto, Konohamaru, might I ask you both something?"

"Yeah sure, what's on your mind Yasaka?"

"What are your opinions on the peerage system?" Yasaka knows that the Shinobi; Naruto especially, have issues with it. The more she sees Naruto learn about them, the more concerned he seems to get.

Konohamaru was the first to answer. "Well, to me it seems kind of cheap, you stick one of these pieces in you and gain power; don't like it, power should be earned." Konohamaru trains hard every day to get strong, strong like Naruto is. Sure Naruto was given power from Kurama and the Sage of Sixth Paths. But Naruto had to earn Kurama's trust to gain his; which took years, and Hagoromo gave both him and Sasuke power. But it was to save the world, he entrusted them to do the impossible and defeat Kaguya. "And I don't want to give up on who I am." His humanity, being a Shinobi of Konoha, and his dream to become the Hokage, he won't sacrifice what makes him who he is, no matter what.

Yasaka predicted that's what Konohamaru would say. It's a common thought shared by many. Most others see the peerage system as a form of glorified slavery or a way for the Devils to gain power over others. It doesn't help their reputation when the Devil's new culture and powerbase has been rebuilt around the peerage system. "And you Naruto?"

Naruto stayed silent as he looked up to the sky. Yasaka, Konohamaru and Kunou were all caught off guard by his silence. Yasaka, for the first time, could not guess at his answer.

"I hate what it has become," Naruto said in a surprisingly grim tone of voice. His eyes looked strained like he's disappointed in the Devil's actions.

"Naruto?" Kunou was getting worried about Naruto. Ever since they became friends, Naruto has always been uplifting to her. To Kunou, he's like a bright light, caring and warm to be around. To see him like this was kind scary in a weird way.

"When the Devils first created it, it was for saving their race from extinction, they can't reproduce like others, so it's understandable why they invented this system." Not like it's their fault it takes years for just one of them to get pregnant. It's just how their bodies work. "If it stayed like that, and those that did accept it and became Devils were treated as equals; and it was an offer, not forced. Then I would be ok with it; sort of." Naruto would still reject the system; he's a human and a proud Shinobi of Konoha, that's never changing.

"But look at what they've turned it in to. Competitions, people becoming weapons, tools, prizes, used by Devil households; to elevate their own standing, getting traded around from peerage to peerage like some kind of commodity. It's no longer about saving their race, but about massing power for one reason or another." Exact reasons could vary between good reasons or selfish reasons. From saving someone's life to getting power for your own gain. But if it's about saving ones race, then why are Sacred Gears users being targeted like they are. Wouldn't anyone do if it's about repopulation, and why make it a class system?

"When people become reincarnated Devils, they are given the rank of Low-Class Devil. The issue is; a Low-Class Devil is both a low rank in ability and in ones rights." Yasaka understood what Naruto meant. When compared to the ninja rank system they have. Genin which are low-ninja, Chunin which are mid-ninja, and Jonin, high-ninja; on the surface they're the same thing, but the meaning behind the ranks is where it differs.

The ninja ranks are never about class, but about ones, abilities to perform missions, and what can be entrusted to them. The higher your rank, the more responsibilities you have to your village, nation and people. Compare a High-Class Devil to a Jonin, the Devil gets the right to own up to fifteen random people in the world, they get riches and all this wealth. Yes, they will have responsibilities to uphold for their clan. However, it's still all about trying to elevate their own standing in the Underworld. A Jonin is entrusted to teach three Genin the skills they need to be proper ninja, as well as be assigned dangerous missions that they may not come back from. They don't get all this wealth and glory, hell; most missions are kept secret from the public. The best part is that none of these ranks are born into; you must earn each position, regardless of background or clan. The Hyuga Clan could be considered high class, but each and everyone one of them had to earn their ranks. None of them were born a Jonin.

Yet every single pureblood Devil from the thirty-two pillars are born into the rank of High Class, like hell they're all fit for such status; did any of them earn it? Yet at the same time, every single reincarnated Devil starts right at Low Class. Even if the one reincarnated is stronger and has way more experience as a leader. If that doesn't show a clear sign of bias and entitlement, then what does?

"Being a Jonin is a responsibility that one must always earn, being a High-Class Devil is a privilege that only reincarnated Devils have to earn."

Yasaka nodded at his answer. "What you say is true, but not all Devils are like that." Yasaka can think of some Devils that don't treat the system that way. But it's a small number. Gremory, Sitri are two examples, they may still go after Sacred Gears users, but they don't treat them like tools or weapons. Sairaorg is one of the few Devils who doesn't target people of other races like pretty much everyone else does. He's one of the few Devils Yasaka respects.

"I know, but the peerage system encourages this kind of behaviour. How bad will it get in a few more years? What do you say to someone who grew up in a world that said he or she has the right to go out and own up to fifteen random people?" It's your childhood that shapes who you are if people think that that's what they have a right to; then how far could they take it?

"Just because you say it doesn't mean they'll listen, nya." Kuroka's head appeared above them, hanging over the roof. Surprising both Kunou and Konohamaru.

"Maybe, but I won't get anywhere is I say or do nothing," Naruto smirked at Kuroka, and she smirked back. Over their weeklong stay, Kuroka has started to grow on Naruto, or maybe Naruto is just getting use to her antics. She's been hanging around them, or him more often. But her teasing has been even worse than Yasaka's; Kuroka uses more than just words. Hinata and surprisingly Raphtalia have not been very comfortable with her actions; she's a trouble maker, but then so is Naruto.

Kuroka has been trying to figure out Naruto more and more every day. She knows he's strong, but how strong? Why's his energy so different? Why can he use Senjutsu; her list of questions just keeps going. But Naruto either doesn't answer or dodges the questions. But rather than pushing Kuroka away, this only made her even more interested and determined to figure him out, like a cat on the hunt.

Kuroka hopped down from her perch and landed in front of the group. Her kimono kicked up in the wind; revealing her creamy long legs, all the way up to her thighs. She landed on the ground with grace. Naruto still hasn't gotten used to the fact that Kuroka doesn't wear anything under her kimono. She blatantly told him that a few days ago just to get a reaction out of him; great another pervert.

"Really Kuroka." Naruto had a strained and slightly red face; he didn't see anything he shouldn't have, but Kuroka keeps doing stuff like this. It's never an accident.

Kuroka bent down a little, letting Naruto get a clear look at her breasts; she couldn't hold back her sly smile. "Why see something you like; or are you hoping to see a little more?"

"Kunou is right here." Naruto pointed at the little fox girl in his lap.

"So, it's not like she will understand our; adult conversation, nya." She slowly approached Naruto, swaying her hips left and right, trying to draw his eyes to where she wants them.

But then Yasaka appeared right behind her and began pinching her cheek. "No, but I understand clearly, I would very much appreciate it if you didn't behave in such a manner while in front of my daughter; Kuroka." Yasaka had a dangerous smile, and a shadow covered her eyes as she put more strength into her fingers.

Kuroka started waving her hands around like a pouty child. "Ok, ok, I'll stop." Kuroka managed to free herself from Yasaka's grip; she rubbed her red cheek to dull the pain.

Kunou tilted her head in confusion. "Did Kuroka do something bad?" Her mother is chastising Kuroka, but Kunou still didn't understand what she did that was bad.

"Pay it no mind Kunou." Yasaka didn't want to explain the meaning behind Kuroka's actions.

"We'll Kuroka, other than napping or messing around, what have you been up to today?" Kuroka goes off on her own sometimes, to Naruto, it seems like she has much on her mind at times and needs to be on her own. But she never wants to talk about it; then again, Naruto doesn't tell a lot about himself so who is he to judge.

Kuroka placed her finger on her lower lip and got into a thinking pose. "Well, other than napping and messing around." Naruto sighed at that answer. "Watching you; handing your student his ass."

"Hey! I held my own, like to see you do better." Konohamaru got up and dramatically pointed at Kuroka. She wasn't fighting Naruto so she can't talk.

Kuroka grinned back at Konohamaru. "Not a bad idea, how about it Naruto, Senjutsu vs Senjutsu; let's see which one is better." Kuroka has been trying to figure out what kind of Senjutsu Naruto has. It's like Sun Wukong's, but he never talked about it. Before Naruto could answer her challenge, one of Yasaka's handmaidens showed up, she was a Kitsune Youkai.

She bowed down to Yasaka. "Lady Yasaka, a visitor, has come to see you."

"Who is it?" Yasaka wasn't expecting anyone today.

"He kept himself hidden under a hood, but asked me to tell you the phrase 'Victorious Monkey'." The handmaiden didn't understand what that was about.

"Monkey?" Must be a Youkai then, why hide their appearance though? "Very well, I'll see them now."

"Are you going to be ok, Yasaka?"

"I'll be fine, Naruto." Yasaka waved him off and left the group.

"Any idea what that's about Naruto?"

"No clue Konohamaru."

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Yasaka headed towards the meeting room, the same one when she first talked to Naruto. As she reached the door, she was thinking over the phrase 'Victorious Monkey'; it could mean multiple things. Species, name, powers, ideology; she could keep going. But when she just reached the sliding door to the room, she felt a presence; one she's felt before.

"Is that..." Yasaka opened the door; standing in the room was a short man wearing a black cloak. But Yasaka recognised this energy and that tail. "Is this the part where you do your grand entrance?"

Yasaka heard a laugh from the cloaked man before he spun around and flung the cloak off himself; revealing an old monkey with golden fur, wearing black shades. "It's been a while since I've come to this fair city, so I thought I would make an interesting entrance and surprise you."

Yasaka giggled little at that explanation. "It's been too long Sun Wukong."

"That it has Yasaka." Sun Wukong then took a puff from his pipe. "I hope I'm not crashing any pleasantries that may be going on around here." He had a habit of doing that in his youth.

"Oh, not at all. I'm surprised that I'm seeing you here; may I ask won't brings you over?" Yasaka hasn't seen Sun Wukong in years, why the sudden visit.

Both Yasaka and Sun took a set around the table in the meeting room. "How has your cat been doing?"

"Kuroka? She's doing fine, I have been able to keep her safe from any would-be justice-seeking Devils." They have long memories, and Kuroka is well known to any and all Devils. Some have tried coming here, asking; or demanding her to be turned over.

Sun knew all about the unfortunate situation she finds herself in. She did what she did for her sister, but most won't believe that's the case. "How has her Senjutsu progressed, has she discovered anything; say, new?" Kuroka was the obvious suspect for that power Sun sensed more than a week ago. She is one of the most skilled Senjutsu uses around.

Yasaka was both curious and wary of Sun's question. He's here to see if Kuroka's Senjutsu has improved; that indeed came out of nowhere. "Can't say that I know Sun Wukong, what makes you think she has?"

"About more than a week ago, I sensed an incredibly powerful Senjutsu user not far from Kyoto. The only Senjutsu user around here that has so much as a chance of reaching the heights I felt would be Kuroka." No one else comes to mind.

Yasaka was now in an awkward position. She knows what he's talking about. Sun Wukong is the most powerful Youkai, and Senjutsu user around; he became a Buddha because of it. But due to how far away he was, and the fact he's never seen Chakra before; Sun Wukong must have mistook Naruto's power for a Youkai. It won't take long for Sun Wukong to figure out what really happened, and that it was a human he felt. If he so much as sees Naruto; he will know. In fact, he must have already sensed his power.

Sun Wukong then flashed a toothy grin. "Yet I sensed an energy source more powerful than yours and mine combined the moment I came here; a power similar to ours. Oh right, there are two others as well, at lower levels." Sun rested his head on his hand with a smug look; seeing Yasaka flinch was all the proof he needed to know he caught her out.

"So who's the new guy, or guys?"

Yasaka knew she could not get out of this; she's friends with Sun as well, so kicking him out to protect Naruto won't work. It would be the same as confessing she's keeping a secret. So she needs to take a different approach "I can introduce you to him, but he wants to remain a secret to the rest of the world for the time being. If you swear to me here and now that you will not reveal his identity to others; including Indra. Then I will bring you to him." Yasaka needs to bring him on board to maintain their secrecy, and Sun Wukong is a very powerful individual. Having Sun as an ally will be beneficial for them. He's been a good friend to both the Youkai; and her personally, so she knows he can be trusted.

Sun Wukong curiosity skyrocketed at this, both this new guy and Yasaka wants this to remain a secret; to everyone, just who or what is she hiding? "Yeah, sure I accept, can't wait to meet this mysterious fellow who's got you so secretive." Yasaka is acting a little differently than she usually does, whoever this new guy is must have had quite the effect on her.

Both Yasaka and Sun Wukong stood up. "Then please follow me Sun Wukong, I'll introduce you to Naruto Uzumaki." It's better this way, and both Naruto and Sun Wukong are Senjutsu users, would he be able to tell how powerful Naruto's Senjutsu is. Are their differences between Senjutsu users from two different worlds.

"Naruto Uzumaki huh." That name is new to him; guess this guy took being a secret to heart.

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Naruto and Konohamaru met up with Hinata and Raphtalia so they could compare training results. Kuroka wandered off, and Kunou chased after her, saying something about Kuroka being her responsibility when her mother is absent.

"So Hinata, how would you say Raphtalia is doing?"

"She's improving on her speed and reaction time, but her attacks are still a bit too linear, a skilled opponent will be able to catch her out." Raphtalia is a speed type fighter, going in with fast and accurate strikes then backing off. She uses her speed to avoid the enemy's attacks and goes in for a single clean strike when they try to recover. But she attacks the same way too many times, if the opponent adapts and lands one solid hit, then Raphtalia will be in a grave position.

"So it's a matter of how she strikes." How she reaches her opponent will be vital for her fighting ability. "Then you're the perfect training partner for her, developing that skill while fighting a Byakugan user can work wonders if done right." If Raphtalia can improve herself enough to the point where she can get past the near three hundred and sixty-degree field of view of Hinata's eyes. Then she can do the same to many other enemies she'll face down the road.

"You make it sound so easy, Naruto." Raphtalia threw herself into the training since they started doing it. Every day she tried harder and harder. She needs to become stronger to stand by her new friends and team and take down the Old Satan Faction when the time comes.

Naruto saw Raphtalia's eyes were filled with determination, but it was for both a desire to become stronger for them and for getting back at Rizevim Lucifer. Naruto will have to keep on top of this. "I know, it's not easy, we've all been there. It takes time, effort, and a little bit of luck to grow in strength. Sometimes it's faster for others, or sometimes you just need an opportunity." Naruto would have never learned the Rasengan if he didn't meet Jiraiya.

"But remember Raphtalia, what you choose to do with your power defines who you are and who you will become. When the time comes, remember that." Naruto doesn't have the right to tell her what to do with her life. But that doesn't mean he will just let her go down a path that Naruto knows only causes further pain.

Raphtalia looked at her ninjatō, gripping the blade's handle tight. She mulled over Naruto's words. But she really didn't know or have an answer for them. How would she act, what would she be thinking in that very moment?

Hinata then grabbed on to Raphtalia's hand, she looked right at her with sympathetic eyes. Showing her support for Raphtalia and to help her deal with her inner turmoil. "Naruto, how was Konohamaru's training?" Hinata changed the subject to give Raphtalia some peace to think.

But while Naruto was talking about his student's training; they were being watched by two others.

Sun Wukong followed Yasaka to one of her training courtyards at the palace. The moment he turned the corner and saw the group of four, he suddenly stopped and focused onto the four he sees. "A racoon Youkai huh, pretty normal by the looks of her, but those three." He could tell their human, which made this even more fascinating; in all his long years, he never would have guessed that humans could gain the power that Youkai possess. Or in this case, a more powerful version of it. "The brown-haired squirt has got potential; the pretty girl has the wackiest eyes I've ever seen." Is she blind? Then Sun focused on the blond of the group.

"Hold on a tick, so it's him, huh." There's no question about it, he may not be using it, but the lingering sense of it clings to him like a soul would. This boy is the one he felt all those days ago; the Sage Mode user. "I take it that's the guy who's got you so wound up, eh Yasaka." Sun snickered a little when he saw her eyebrow twitch.

Yasaka maintained her posture and smile, not giving into Sun's teasing and troublesome behaviour. "That is Naruto Uzumaki, the Senjutsu user you came looking for." Yasaka was running over all the possible interactions and outcomes between these two in her head. She had to make sure it becomes a favourable outcome by day's end.

Sun took a few steps forward; he remained silent, confusion even Yasaka by how different he's acting right now when compared to a few seconds ago. Before she could ask him what he intends to do, Sun spins his staff. He aims it squarely at Naruto, at exceptional speeds that push asides the very air around them, the staff extends, racing right towards Naruto.

"Sun Wukong!" Yasaka called out to try and stop his sudden action. But Sun tuned her out; he intends to see this boy's reactions. Then the blond jumps into the air, and somersaults onto Sun's staff; the boy's strength and speed push the staff into the ground. The rock and dirt crumbles under the force of Sun's staff, and the earth shook; shaking the entire courtyard, but the blond didn't move. He remained there to keep the staff from being used again.

"You got a problem? Ya geezer chimp."

Sun had a toothy grin at the blond's retort. He liked this kid.

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Naruto sensed another Senjutsu user around but didn't think too much of it as he's already met Kuroka, so seeing another Senjutsu user was expected. But when this new guy entered the courtyard, they're in. Naruto locked all his senses on him; this guy was different. He's Senjutsu was much more powerful than Kuroka's, and he's Spiritual energy surpassed Yasaka's. Who is this guy?

Then all of a sudden, he attacks Naruto with his staff, but Naruto didn't feel any hostility from him; a trick, a bluff, what's his game? Naruto move fast to trap the staff and deprive him of his weapon. The rest of the team all took positions around Naruto, eyes, hand signs and blade at the ready. All four of them were prepared for whatever this monkey's next move would be.

"Hahahahaha, nice reflexes boy." The monkey just started laughing about the situation, the attack from before meant nothing to him. "No I've got no problem, just wanted to confirm something."

"Confirm something?" Naruto asked with hesitation, what was he confirming with that strike?

"Can I have my staff back?" Naruto was still keeping the staff in place.

Naruto was unsure of what to do; this guy doesn't mean any harm to them, but that just made it even more confusing on why he did what he did. If this monkey is a Senjutsu user, who's better than Kuroka, then he would have quickly figured out that Naruto can use Senjutsu too, so what's this all about?

Yasaka stepped forward, coughing loudly into her hand, grabbing everyone's attention. "Naruto, this is Sun Wukong. I promise you he means no harm; or trouble." Yasaka shot Sun a pressing look, her eyes were narrowed. "So please give him his staff back."

Naruto conceded to her request. "Fine." Naruto hopped off the staff. It then, just as quickly as it extended, receded back to its owner. "But don't do that again, ya hear." If that strike was aimed at Raphtalia or Konohamaru; it wouldn't have ended well.

"He won't," Yasaka answered for him.

"I won't?"

"You won't." She's not going to deal with his troublesome behaviour.

The team all relaxed their stances but kept up their guard around him. Naruto approached Sun while he did the same. They met halfway between Naruto's team and Yasaka.

Sun took a puff from his pipe before speaking. "So you're Naruto eh?"

Seems Yasaka told him. "I am, and your name was, what, Sun Wukong?"

"Yep, you're looking at the first-ever Monkey King turned Buddha." Sun boasted with pride.

"He has a similar name as four tails Son, and he's a monkey too." Naruto did ask if there was going to be doppelgangers for every Bijuu. But luckily this time, there was only one tail. "So you're a god?" He's a far cry from Hagoromo; it's not even funny.

"I am now, wasn't a while back." He became a god on his journey.

"You want to explain to me what that was all about?" Naruto pointed back at the destruction caused by that little scuffle. Was a 'hi, how are you?' so difficult.

Sun grinned at Naruto. "Just wanted to confirm that you're the Senjutsu user I felt several days ago." As well as that other thing.

Naruto flinched at his reasoning. He felt Naruto before? "Back when you flared your Chakra, or maybe when you entered Sage Mode, he must have sensed you back then." There's no other explanation that Kurama could think off.

"You felt me back then? If so then why wait so long, and what's the big deal anyway, others can use Senjutsu ya'know." Naruto kind of answered his own question; this Sun must have felt his similar energy and came to investigate.

Sun made an earnest look but remained stoic. His attitude changed all of a sudden. Sun walked over to Naruto until he was right in front of him. The monkey gestured with his figure for Naruto to bend down and lend him his ear. Naruto still didn't understand his intentions but chose to humour him and bent over.

Sun brought his mouth to Naruto's ear and whispered something that shook Naruto to his core. "Sage Mode, right."

Naruto's eyes widened in disbelief, it became harder to breathe. But Naruto quickly tried to get back his composer. He backed up from Sun with some difficulty, his face was still telling on how shocked Naruto was. "How?"

Sun pointed to himself. "Takes one to know one." Sun wasn't shocked by Naruto's reaction. He felt the same thing all those days ago, and he had a week to come to terms with it.

Hinata saw Naruto's distress and came to his side; she grabbed his arm and spun him around to face her. "Naruto, are you ok?" She asked with obvious concern edged into her voice. To help steady his breathing, Hinata brought her hand to his cheek to give him the comfort needed to help him.

Whatever Hinata did, it worked. Naruto was able to fully calm down, and he met her hand with his own. "Thank Hinata I needed that, sorry for scaring you like that."

"It's fine, but what happened?" What did Sun say that freaked out Naruto so much?

"Yasaka, can you come here please." If Naruto is going to explain, she might as well join them. Yasaka was also concerned about Naruto's reaction to whatever Sun just said, so she did so without hesitation. The new group of six were now altogether.

"To answer your question Hinata, Sun knows about Sage Mode." Naruto could hardly believe it.

Hinata and Konohamaru were complete flabbergasted at this. But Yasaka and Raphtalia could only share a look; they have no idea what's going on. Sun noticed the other two's reactions, they know about Sage Mode as well, but can't use it.

"But how is that possible, Senjutsu I can understand, but Sage Mode, he doesn't even have..." Hinata stopped herself from saying that last part. She was so shocked by this that she nearly let slip about Chakra. But her point still stands; you need Chakra to enter Sage Mode, right? So how can Sun do it without it?

If Sun did notice that Hinata stop herself from talking, then he didn't show it.

"Naruto, I don't understand what is Sage Mode?" Raphtalia has never heard of it, but her friends clearly know about it.

"Well, it's..." Sun tapped his staff on the ground, interrupting Naruto with a loud ringing sound emanating from his staff.

"I asked that this information doesn't leave the six of us, it can cause trouble if it gets out." One massacre was enough.

"Trouble? Why would Sage Mode cause issues?" Kuroka is walking around all fine and dandy, sure she can't use it and doesn't know it, but she can use Senjutsu. "Sure we can do that; as long as you agree to not tell anyone about us." Sun found him out, so Naruto needs to make sure he doesn't blab about him.

"Yeah sure, I already agreed to that request." Sun pointed at Yasaka, who nodded at Naruto.

"Ok..." Well, that worked out. "Yasaka already made sure Sun was in check, good."

"To answer your question Raphtalia, Sage Mode is what true Senjutsu is." What a master of Senjutsu can perform.

"I've never heard of it."

"Not surprising, before this kid, I was the only one to ever achieve it, but I kept quiet about it to avoid trouble," Sun informed them on why no one has ever heard of Sage Mode before. Because, only Sun, could use it and never told anyone.

"Well, Sage Mode is a state one can enter if they perfectly balance Senjutsu with their internal energies. If you do this, then you enter Sage Mode, a power that gives you many advantages that few can handle." That Super Devil lost to it.

Yasaka was perplexed by this. "But Senjutsu can't be mixed with your own energies; otherwise, you will succumb to the madness of nature and go insane." Senjutsu needs to be kept as a separate energy to prevent this from happening, and even then there is still a risk of succumbing to madness.

"That's true Yasaka, but if one can combine those energies together and overcome that madness, then they're able to get a hold of what true Senjutsu is. This was how I gained my true power and the strength that I've become so well known for." The titles Sun has were mainly for his own ego back in his younger days, but Sage Mode is what allowed him to hold on to those titles and make them a reality.

"This means that the fundamentals are the same in both worlds. So it stands to reason that he combines Senjutsu energy with his Spiritual energy to create something akin to 'Senjutsu Spiritual energy'." Sun must be skilled to pull that off with only one internal energy.

"He does that, but we combined Senjutsu energy with both Physical and Spiritual energy to create 'Senjutsu Chakra'." But in Naruto's world, they have to deal with a different issue, and that is avoiding becoming permanently one with nature. Maybe because these guys are already animals or animal-like they don't have to worry about that?

But then, what other differences can there be?

Naruto needs to know.

"Hey Sun, what would you say to a friendly spar between Sages?" Best way for Naruto to see the differences; by pitting the two against each other.

Yasaka was shocked, she knows how powerful Sun is, but can only guess on Naruto's strength; Raphtalia was confused by Naruto's unexpected challenge. Hinata and Konohamaru weren't surprised. Konohamaru smirked, he was happy about this turn of events; he wants to see this fight, to see not one, but two Sage Mode users going at it. It could help him understand it better for his inevitable training and use of it.

"It's been a while since someone openly challenged me like this, I accept; I'd like to see your use of it too." Sun really liked this kid now, as ballsy as he was; and still is. Sun also wanted to see the differences, since Naruto's power felt more complete and more powerful than his own; for some reason.

Yasaka knew this spar was happening one way or another, Naruto openly challenged Sun and he accepted. Not much she can do to stop them, so she can at least control the situation a little.

"Then I, as Queen of the Youkai, will act as the mediator in this spar. No killing blows, the fight ends if one concedes or can no longer fight." Yasaka gestured for the others to vacate the immediate area and stand at the porch of the palace, while she creates a barrier around Naruto and Sun, it covered the whole training field.

Now it's just them two.

Naruto stood entirely still and gathered up the needed Senjutsu energy to enter Sage Mode; it took him seconds to do it. Sun was intrigued by Naruto's skill with it. "He's clearly been able to do this for a while" Years at least. Sun could see orange pigmentation appear around Naruto's eyes, this is new. Then Naruto opened them, showing his yellow toad-like eyes. "Well now, this is definitely new, when I enter Sage Mode I don't get any physical changes, is it because he's human?" Sun gets a massive increase to his strength, speed, durability, sensing and Youjutsu techniques, but never changes to his appearance.

While the two fighters got ready, someone sneaked up onto the roof of the palace, she wanted to see this fight; more than anything.

Kuroka sensed Sun Wukong enter the palace and went to found out why he's here. Only to find out he's here for Naruto, he even managed to spook him in such a way that even she was somewhat freaked out by it. But then the group gave them two some space, and Yasaka formed a barrier around them; she tied it to the Leyline, why does she need it to be that strong?

But then Naruto did something she didn't see coming, something unreal; something that got her full attention. "This is...just like Sun's true power, no, it's more than that." Just like how these human's power feels more complete than the Youkai's. Naruto's Senjutsu feels more complete than Sun's. Kuroka could see Naruto's eyes change, and she could feel how his Senjutsu energy was practically mixed in with his own power, completely and utterly balanced.

"How can he do that? He should be foaming at the mouth from being so insane." But he wasn't, neither was Sun. They weren't affected by nature's madness. Kuroka stayed up where she was, this view is perfect, she will be able to see and sense everything that goes on down there. "Show me, show me who you truly are, Naruto Uzumaki." If he doesn't answer her questions, then she will just watch him fight from the sidelines.

Sun and Naruto have both finished their preparations for the spar.

"You ready boy?"

Naruto noticed that Kuroka was watching them, Sun must also know about it; this is a problem. Kuroka wouldn't have heard them talking about Sage Mode from up there. But that didn't matter now, because she's going to get a front-row seat of two Sage Mode users in action. Naruto will need to keep an eye on her. Sun still hasn't explained why Sage Mode needs to be kept a secret.

"I'm ready ya geezer chimp." Naruto won't back out of this fight, even with Kuroka watching them, Naruto made the challenge, and he will never back down, no matter what. He needs to see how Sage Mode is used in this world first hand.

With both of them prepared for the fight, they waited for Yasaka to shout the inevitable.

"BEGIN!"

.

---

The moment those words left Yasaka's mouth, Naruto moved. His natural speed and the speed given to him by Sage Mode. It allowed him to blitz right behind Sun. Naruto struck forward with his fist, aiming right for Sun's spine.

Sun, casually, brought his staff behind him and blocked Naruto's strike. Sun's back was still facing Naruto. However, Sun was pushed forward by Naruto's fist. He maintained his footing but was sent a few meters forward.

"That strike, it had more behind it than I expected." There is something different about Naruto's Sage Mode.

"He was able to sense my approach and blocked accordingly, let's see what else he can do." Sun didn't need to look for him to block Naruto's strike; this might just be like Naruto's Sage Mode.

Sun spun around with his staff extending, its end dug into the ground and kicked up the earth, it moved at high speeds, and it headed right towards Naruto. Naruto raced forward, aiming to close the gap between him and Sun. The staff neared Naruto, but Naruto grabbed onto it before it could hit him, but just as he was about to use it against Sun, the monkey shrunk the staff from his end. Sun speeded right towards Naruto.

Naruto was forced to let go of the staff and block the kick from Sun, but now Sun was in Naruto's face. The monkey readied his staff against the Shinobi. Sun strikes fast from many different angles, but Naruto was able to dodge each of them, he weaved his way through Sun's onslaught.

They both have now entered each other's personal bubble, a clash between staff and fist ensued. The air and ground shook around them, neither one wanted to back out of this brawl. But whether it was his age or Naruto's Sage Mode, Sun was getting pushed back, blocking Naruto's strikes was something he could do, but the power behind them was another story.

"Senjutsu surrounds his fist like a cloak, attacking alongside his strike." Naruto was getting more out of his Sage Mode; his strikes had more than just the strength increase of Sage Mode, but its Senjutsu energy too. Sun could not do that with his version of Sage Mode.

Naruto needed to get pass Sun's staff, the staff was being empowered by the monkey's Senjutsu. Naruto grabbed the monkey's staff and attempted to take it from him, but then the staff itself lit up in flame, and Naruto jumped back to avoid getting burned.

"Youjutsu." Sun was able to use it without setting up a magical circle, like Naruto's Rasengan.

"Let's turn up the heat, shall we!" Sun spun the staff within both his hands; it flew at speeds that kicked up a whirlwind, then a vortex of fire shoots out, it covered a wide area.

Naruto weaved the hand signs. "Sage Art: Water style: Water Bullet!" Naruto spat out a wave of water to meet Sun's vortex of fire; the two attacks collided, and the only sound that could be heard was the hissing of steam as the two attacks dissipated against each other. The barrier was quickly shrouded in mist; eyes are of no more use now.

The people on the outside could not see, only Hinata with her Byakugan and Kuroka with Senjutsu could still make out the fight.

Sun could no longer see Naruto, but he can still sense him. But then he heard something, something metal, spinning against the air, and it was heading his way. A shuriken covered in blue energy was hurled towards him, only for another twenty more to appear alongside it; right out of thin air.

Sun blocked each, and everyone one of them, the constant sound of clanging metal could be heard. Then an even bigger one appeared, this time it was covered in fire. Sun smirked; fire was all but useless against him with his near immunity to it. The monkey grabbed onto the spinning blade, stopping it in its tracks.

Only for it to puff into smoke, and for Naruto to appear before him, his hand firmly clasped around Sun's wrist; the one that was holding his staff. Naruto sent a mean right hook at Sun's face; it connected.

Sun was sent flying into the air, the speed and strength of the attack rippled the space around them and cleared away the smoke, revealing Naruto, and Sun soaring through the air. Shocking the audience before them; well, the ones who didn't know Naruto very well.

Sun felt that hit, and now he can confirm his suspicions, Naruto's Sage Mode, is greater than his. The monkey was able to stick the landing, the punch didn't impair him, but it left its mark.

"Good instincts, and powerful striking power, he's no kid." Sun was starting to enjoy this, they've only started, but it's already so much fun.

Naruto didn't intend to let up, now that Sun has been separated from his staff, he can push his advantage. But then Sun changed the game. His hair curled and flicked around, and several strands shot off. Each one of those strands then turned into one of him.

"A cloning technique." Naruto could see twenty Suns, including the original.

"Well, it's time we turn this into a real party right." Sun was in the mood for battle, but so was Naruto.

"Yeah, only for me to crash that party." Naruto weaved a sign, and with a smug look, did one of his favourite Jutsus. "Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!" nineteen clones puffed into existence around Naruto. Now the numbers are even; he could make more, but there's only so much space to work with, and Sun would just make more too, so there's no point.

Sun's eyes lit up behind his shades. "Oh ho ho. You can clone yourself too, eh." Kindred spirits alright.

The Suns and Narutos all charged headlong into each other, it became a massive scuffle, clone vs clone. But without the staff, the Suns were on the back foot. Until twenty more hairs came out of the original Sun, and each turned into weapons. Staffs, swords, spears, you name it, and he made it. Naruto's clones responded, each of them equipping Chakra blades, each one infused with Senjutsu Chakra, the clash of weapons began.

Hinata was silently watching on, having complete faith in Naruto's victory. Konohamaru cheered his sensei on. Raphtalia was amazed at Naruto's strength; she knows he beat Rizevim Lucifer, and now she sees why. Yasaka was beyond surprised, seeing Naruto stand toe to toe against Sun Wukong, the strongest of the Youkais now turned Buddha.

Kuroka, she was, well; intoxicated. To see this level of Senjutsu first hand, by someone so much younger than Sun; and yet he can overpower him and push him back in their clashes, despite that gape in experience. "Amazing, more; show me more." She needed to know how far Naruto has taken his Senjutsu, and if she can follow.

Sun had lost all but five of his clones, while Naruto has only lost fourteen; it's now six vs seven. The original Naruto still made sure to keep the Suns away from the staff, keeping his weapon away from him to maintain his advantage.

Sun's clones then all changed into various animals,they turned in to a panda, tiger, snake, crane, and a; mantis.

"A mantis, really?"

"The smaller ones are the hardest to hit."

The transformed clones went head to head with Naruto's. Each one attacked in a different manner.

The panda bounced around, getting the clone to give chase. The crane grabbed onto one of them, bringing that fight into the air. The snake started a grappling match, the tiger fought with new ferocity, forcing the clone back. While the mantis was throwing a clone left and right like a ragdoll.

Naruto and his last clone were about to move in, but they noticed the shift, the clones have all been moved to different areas. Clearing the way for Sun to try and get his weapon back.

Sun made good on this chance and rushed over towards his lost weapon. The real Naruto went to met Sun's charge head-on while his clone stayed back to guard the staff.

Sun created a magical circle and let loose a spell; one that caused a typhoon. Water and wind mixed together for one single attack.

"Sage Art: Earth Style: Mud Wall." Naruto creates a massive wall of stone to shield him against the incoming spell. The spell hit his wall, and the whole area was encased in wind and water, a storm within a barrier. All clones except Naruto's last clone that guarded the staff were taken out by the attack. The stone wall held but its outer edges crumbled away from the power of Sun's attack. The spell then subsided, but it gave Sun the opening he needed.

The monkey leapt other the wall and Naruto; he dashed off to recover his staff. The clone was caught off guard and Sun seized the opportunity, and struck the clone with his might. But just before the clone was hit and dispelled, Naruto appeared behind the clone. He uses Hiraishin just before its demise; that he already placed on said clone.

Sun didn't see it coming and was caught flat-footed. In that instant, Naruto's hands met Sun's. Naruto interlocked his figures with the monkeys and caught him in a steel grip. Already proving that Naruto's physical strength surpassed Sun's; all he needed to do was use that to his advantage and force him into submission. This was his chance to do just that. Sun could not break free, his hair was a no go because Naruto can counter it, and in this position, Naruto won't give him the chance to use it again.

Sun was impressed by this guy, incredible so. "I must admit, I'm not in a good position right now, if only I were a few years younger; naaa even then this would still be pretty bad." Even at this moment, Sun still enjoyed himself.

Naruto loved this thrill; a friendly spar in Sage Mode was not very common for him. "I don't know, ya still pretty spry for a fossil." Sun wasn't done, he can still keep going.

Sun started laughing hysterically. "Sure I still got a few years left under my belt, so let's start the end game shall we." Sun had gotten renewed vigour from Naruto's encouragement, and decided to step it up.

Sun's entire body was enveloped in a white glow, covering him like Naruto's Chakra cloaks do. Naruto was completely surprised by this action; he's never seen this before. "It's like a cloak of energy but not from Chakra; I feel so much life energy from it, what is this?" This energy is new, it isn't Spiritual energy; it isn't Chakra, and it isn't Senjutsu, what the hell is he looking at?

But Naruto got his head back in the game when he felt Sun's hands move; Sun was able to put up a much better fight against Naruto's physical advantage. "His strength has greatly increased; he's now proving a much better match for you." Kurama could feel Sun's power significantly increase; his body has new strength, speed and durability. Whatever this is, he's using it in conjunction with his weaker version of Sage Mode to now match Naruto's superior version of Sage Mode.

Sun was able to use this momentum to his advantage and broke free from Naruto's grip. Before hand-standing over his shoulders and kicking Naruto away; Sun got his staff back.

Naruto flipped off of the ground and got back on his feet, he was launched some distance away from Sun. "His strike hit harder than it did before." Sun has closed the gap.

Sun saw Naruto's confusion, which was interesting, he's got a more powerful version of Sage Mode, but he's never seen this before. "You look surprised sunny boy, never seen Touki before?"

"Can't say that I have."

"Really, what kind of Senjutsu user are you?"

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"I just expected you to be able to use it."

"Wait; use it, why would I be able to use it?" Naruto's got questions about that but now is not the time, besting Sun Wukong is his goal right now.

Naruto needed to see the new strength difference, as so he dashed off towards Sun Wukong. The monkey fired a few small Youjutsu attacks to halt Naruto's advance, but Naruto dodge all of them with ease.

Sun ready his staff and his white aura enveloped it, Sun then thrust his weapon forward, and his strike clashed with Naruto's punch; the attacks met, and the ground beneath them paid the price. The earth between them split as the shock wave from the attack spread outward. It travelled up and along the barrier, nearly shattering it; it left the barrier riddled with cracks; it couldn't take this much longer.

Yasaka was now getting worried about this fight continuing. "Even my Leyline barrier can't hold those two, they need to stop soon, or my palace is next." This barrier is not as powerful as the one covering the entire city. But it's still being fuelled by the Leyline, for these two to break it with pure strength alone, is scary and amazing.

Both Sun and Naruto could see that the barrier is just about done; one more attack will end it. They both silently nodded to each other, this will be the final move. They jumped away from each other, each preparing their last attack.

Sun increased the amount of Touki and Senjutsu that was in his staff and spun it behind his back as he spread his legs apart.

Naruto brought out his hand and create a Rasengan, this one was bigger than his head. But this one was fuelled by both Senjutsu Chakra and Wind Release; a Wing Style Rasengan.

The ground around Sun was breaking apart and crumbling by the strength of his staff, while the air around Naruto was caught by his Rasengan's vortex, and spun with it, kicking up winds that sliced up the earth around him.

Everyone watching held their breath; this is it, the final move.

A few seconds of silence was shared between the two. These seconds were dedicated to their newfound respect for one another. With speeds that broke the sound barrier, they both dashed off to meet each other head-on. The ground beneath them crumbled under the strength of their heels.

Sun let out a mighty scream as he thrust his staff to meet Naruto's attack.

Naruto shoved his hand into Sun's staff. "Sage Art: Wind Style: Ōdama Rasengan!"

The two attacks connected and the entire barrier lit up in blinding light. The barrier was on the verge of collapse, so much so that Yasaka then tried to hold it together, but it will prove to be a fruitless effort. Even with the barrier, everyone outside of it could feel the power, the winds, the shockwave and the impact of their clash. The earth quaked beneath their feet as the final few crakes that formed, shattered the barrier, but just as it shattered, the sheer force of the attacks subsided.

The spar was over, but who won?

.

---

The large cloud of dust was still present, so no one could really see who won, but then something impacted the side of the palace roof. Everyone turned in shock, hoping that, that someone is ok, but instead of a person, they saw an object, a staff; they saw Sun Wukong's staff.

Everyone turned to face the battleground, the dust finally cleared. Sun Wukong was without his weapon, and Naruto's hand was mere inches from the monkey's face.

Hinata and Konohamaru had faith or knew that Naruto would win. But Yasaka, Raphtalia and Kuroka were frozen in place. They all said the same thing. "He bested Sun Wukong." A human just overcame a Buddha.

Naruto and Sun were still standing in place, sharing shit-eating grins.

"That was some of the most fun I've had." Sun didn't care that he lost to Naruto; this whole experience has been breathtaking.

"Sun, you are strong; it would be a privilege to fight you again; if we do, let's bring everything we got, right at the start." They both held back in this fight, but it was still a fantastic fight to be a part of.

They both stood back up properly, dusting the dirt off themselves; before sharing an uncontrollable laugh. Sometimes to truly understand someone, words are not needed, but the sharing of fists can show you what is truly in their hearts; that is what Sasuke taught Naruto. They were able to ring in their laughter before it got too out of control for even them.

They both grinned at each other and shared a fist bump. "I'll be looking forward to it, kid."

"Me too, chimp."

.

---

The spectators looked on in shock at what is transpiring before their eyes. The fight has been over for a few minutes now; so they've gotten over the upset of Naruto besting Sun Wukong. But what they're now seeing is a new kind of scary.

"What are they doing?" Yasaka didn't see this as one of the outcomes. Sun and Naruto were just sitting down, in the ruins of the destroyed training field. Sun pulled out a bottle of sake, he had it underneath his sleeve; and surprisingly got Naruto to share a drink with him, not something Naruto typically does.

Now the two Sages were; sharing stories about each other, and the trouble they got up to in their lives. All the while, the spectators just looked at them in disbelief.

"Ok, ok, here's one, three Taoist were asking for some holy elixir; now I was disguised as the statue they were talking to at the time. I got them to leave the room while I prepared my 'Holy elixir'; and then I proceeded to piss in the cistern for them to drink out of!" Sun laughed hysterically at that prank he did all those years ago.

"Haha, you got them to drink your own piss!" Naruto's never done that one before. "Alright, so in my village, there are these massive stone faces carved out of the cliffside. These faces are bigger than that palace behind us." Each one on their own was bigger, and Konoha had six of them. "They represent the leaders of our village, so I decided to get everyone's attention by; and this was in broad daylight for all to see. Painted over all of them, and then escaped the guards that chased after me." Naruto desecrated one of the most important symbols of his home; worth it.

Naruto and Sun shared in their laughter, from all the troubles these two keep causing.

Hinata was filed with a sense of dread when she realised what these two have in common. "There are two of them now."

"Hinata?" Hinata's dreaded tone creeped Raphtalia out.

"They're both pranksters." Naruto and Sun have found an ally in each other.

"What am I watching right now?" Yasaka still didn't understand how a fight leads to this. It's like they just became best friends.

"I stole these five powerful treasures from two brothers, and then I kicked their asses with them; only for the 'owner' to show up later and take them from me." Sun wanted to keep those weapons.

Naruto swung his arm around Sun. "I feel your pain." Nothing worse than gaining something cool; only to lose it later. "I stole a scroll of forbidden techniques, but I was able to learn one of them before I got caught." No need to add the bit about being tricked into stealing it.

"Well aren't you the lucky one. But, I still have my staff, and that's all I need."

"It's a tough weapon, where'd you get it?" It's just like the Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi's 'Transformation: Adamantine Staff'. He summons the Monkey King Enma, who then turns into it. At this point, Naruto is or has gotten use to the similarities between their worlds.

"From a dragon under the sea."

"What!?" It's not a summon.

"I wanted a weapon, and this staff was better than all the weapons he showed me, so I took it." And they've been together ever since. "Ok, insecurities, go."

"Getting swallowed by giant animals; it just keeps happening. First, it's a snake, then it's a turtle, then a monkey; tomorrow it's a dragon." What is it with Naruto and getting eaten alive?

Sun laughed out loud at Naruto's predicament, getting narrowed eyes from the blond. "For me it's mountains, to get back at me, people just bury me under them." It's happened twice, and Sun is adamant about not letting reached a third time.

They went back and forth with stories and the antics they get up to, sharing moments of laughter with each other.

Hinata and Yasaka shared a look, they needed to stop this before these two unite and do something...problematic. Hinata walked over to Naruto's side while Yasaka did the same to Sun. They didn't notice their approach.

"How many times did he get kidnapped?"

"I stopped counting after twelve; I swear Tripitaka was public enemy number one, two and three."

"Well, luckily, you were there to keep saving him."

"I know, but why did we encounter so many 'would-be kidnappers' on our journey to the..." In that moment, Sun and Naruto felt great pain on their ears.

"Naruto-kun, we have more important things to do at this time, perhaps it's best for you do this some other time when we don't have pressing concerns" Hinata said in a tone that terrified Naruto.

"Sun Wukong, while I'm glad that you and Naruto are getting along; I asked that you don't corrupt him please." Yasaka's smile was anything but innocent.

"Sure/ok" The due stood up and were 'lead' other to the rest of the group.

"Way to go sensei." Konohamaru gives Naruto a big thumbs up at his display of strength. "You did alright, old man." He half-heartedly praised the monkey.

"Seeing you fight really opened my eyes, and helped me understand my goal." Raphtalia has seen a portion of Naruto's strength, the same strength he used to defeat the Devil responsible for her wows; she needs to aim for that level.

"It was a fight worth seeing, but it's good that the spar stopped before it got out of hand, I'd like my capital to remain in one piece." It could have kept going, never one was really all that injured, which then asks the question; would her home still be standing if these two duked it out, for real.

"I got to say Sun, you're good." He's stronger than Rizevim Lucifer, both in power and skill.

"You too boy, let's do this again sometime.

"No!" Yasaka is shutting that down. "Not here."

Naruto just rolled his eyes. "Ok, so Sun, what was that white aura you used before?"

Sun raised a single eyebrow "Touki, I'm still surprised you can't use it. But I've got my own questions, like why is your Sage Mode so different from mine?"

This brings Naruto to a dilemma; he brings Sun into the fold, and can learn more about this Touki, as well as gain a powerful ally, but risks the secrecy of his mission. Or he turns him away to maintain confidentiality but loses out on some vital information. But Naruto liked Sun, so bringing him in like he's done with Yasaka could become very beneficial.

"Yasaka, do you trust Sun?"

Yasaka saw where Naruto was going; she intended to bring him in on all this and wanted to get Naruto on board with it; now he's trying to do the same thing. "I do." Despite his mischief nature, Sun is someone Yasaka trusts, and he's surprisingly wise. "I'll explain to him what's going on, is that ok with you."

"Yeah, it's ok." Naruto trusts Yasaka, and she trusts Sun, and the monkey's strength can be a big help for them in the future. Yasaka nodded at Naruto and lead Sun away to explain to him what's going on; leaving Naruto and his team alone.

"Sun was pretty strong, any idea on why his Sage Mode is different?" Hinata had been around Naruto enough to know the ins and outs of Sage Mode, but the fight clearly showed there's a difference between them.

"I'm not fully sure; we'll have to ask him about it." Kurama believed that the difference was because Sun doesn't have physical energy, and so lacks Charka, so he can only mix it with his Spiritual energy alone. Naruto then noticed Konohamaru was near the destroyed training field, looking on with an unsure expression. Naruto walked over to his side. "What's on your mind?"

Konohamaru was acting a bit quiet right now, which is unusual, to say the least. "Do you really think I can reach that level?" Konohamaru knows the power of Sage Mode but has never really seen Naruto truly fight with it, let alone see two Sage Mode users fight. Seeing that level first hand showed him the power gap he needs to close, and soon.

Naruto roughly rubbed his student's hair, getting his attention. "Of course I do, after all, a teacher's job is to have faith in his student. It won't happen overnight, but you will achieve it."

Konohamaru looked on at the former battleground; he clenched his fist with determination. He will be right there with them one day, count on it.

Kuroka was still up at her perch, but still frozen in place from what she saw; she saw and felt everything. Naruto's and Sun's powers are similar, but Naruto is the superior Senjutsu user. Before today, if someone was to ask her who was the best at using Senjutsu, she would have said Sun Wukong hands down, but that's no longer the case anymore. A human has surpassed the Great Sage Equalling Heaven. Kuroka has been asking him, trying to figure Naruto out; instead, she got to see a demonstration of his power. Against Sun of all people, and he walked away a winner; and she knows that this was merely a taste of what Naruto is capable of.

Whether Naruto wanted it or not, he just got Kuroka's full attention. The cat was teetering between leaving to think over this development. Or going down there to talk with Naruto about everything. But then one of Yasaka's handmaidens showed up and called them inside to speak with Yasaka and Sun."Oh well, he's not going anywhere. It seems I may have found the perfect candidate." It didn't matter to her if he's already in a relationship with that Hinata girl. She still plans on making her; advances.

Naruto doesn't know it yet, but he may have entered an inescapable fate.

.

---

Yasaka and Naruto briefed Sun about what has been transpiring over the last few days; the attack, them coming from another world, the forming of a soon to be alliance; everything.

Sun was feeling a mixture of being shocked, excited, angry and intrigued all at once. "It seems that the Old Devils have been causing trouble for all kinds of folks." Sun detested the Devils of Old and the current Old Satan Faction. They killed many of his kind in the past as well as committed many horrors throughout history. But he's not that surprised that they're the ones to screw things up again.

"So that's why you went unnoticed for so long, you were never here, to begin with." There is no way that Naruto; with his powers would have been hidden for such a long time without someone finding him out. "So this Chakra of yours; it's why you guys are different from us, sadly I've never heard of it either."

"I expected that." Yasaka's research has turned up nothing, Chakra does not exist with any of the factions or in their histories. She's gotten rid of suspects that aren't behind this but has not once added any.

Sun needed clarification about something. "So the only people who know that you're from another world and about Chakra are in this room?"

"Yes, me, Hinata, Konohamaru, Raphtalia and Yasaka are the only ones, to everyone else we are just from a hidden village, and to the other factions we don't exist." Sun already agreed to keep all this a secret, but he now knows that only them six are aware of what's truly going on.

"Then I believe I should remain here for a time, I would very much like to learn about your world Naruto." Maybe there is some way for Youkai to gain Chakra; Sun would very much like to have a Sage Mode like Naruto's.

"It would cool to have you around, Yasaka your ok with this right?" Yasaka nodded; he should stay close to the source for now.

"So Naruto, can you explain to me how you came about Sage Mode and how yours works." Sun really wanted to know. "Tell you what, I'll start, during my travels and the many battles I had, my Senjutsu prowess grew. But I wanted to push it to new heights, by conquering the darkness of it. My journey with Tripitaka taught me valuable lessons and helped ease up my; attitude. So when I noticed that Senjutsu was no longer affecting me with its darkness, I brought it into myself and mixed it with my Spiritual energy. That's when I reached that new level and obtained Sage Mode." The name just came to him, almost like nature itself told him the name without him realising it, the name sounded cool enough, so Sun went with it.

"For me, I was taught it by the Toad Sages of Mount Myoboku." At one of the worst moments in Naruto's life; but also one of its most important.

"Wait, so it's not just you, there are other Sage Mode users?" A whole new world filled with them, that's crazy.

"Yes, the Toad Sages of Mount Myoboku, the Snake Sages of Ryūchi Cave and the Slug Sages of Shikkotsu Forest, these of the three unexplored Sage villages. You can only get there by being summoned to them, I've been to Myoboku many times, but I can't actually walk there." Naruto never tried too, out of respect for keeping the location hidden from even himself.

"So it's possible for someone who was never born with Senjutsu, to become a Senjutsu user?" To Sun, that's a game-changer right there, if every Youkai learned Senjutsu and in turn Sage Mode, it would have an impact on the power balance between the factions.

"Yes, but it's not common, the animals there are all natural Senjutsu users. But only those that have favour with them are taken there to be trained in it; they don't just teach anyone it. Other than me, I know a total of seven humans in history that have obtained Sage Mode." Which speaks volume to how hard and rare it is to have it. "Plus most people fail the training and die."

Sun wasn't surprised by that. "Yes, the chaotic nature of Senjutsu has serious complications."

Naruto shook his head. "Sun, it doesn't work like that where I'm from." Nature energy isn't crazy like it is here. "If people fail to use it properly, they turn to stone."

"What/huh." Both Sun and Yasaka were both surprised by this, Yasaka heard from Kuroka that Senjutsu makes people go insane, and Sun knows what happens better than anyone.

"In my world, we don't disrespect nature like this world does, we build our homes, villages and cities in nature itself, and so instead of worrying about going insane. We have to worry about becoming permanently one with nature and dying." Turning into an animal and then turning into stone.

"Interesting." The fundamentals of Senjutsu are similar and yet different, and it makes sense as to why nature isn't messed up in his world. Nature is alive in a way, so treating it with kindness would lead to a better outcome. "So how do you use it?"

"We bring nature energy into ourselves and mix it in with both our Spiritual and Physical energies all together, and then infuse them to create Senjutsu Chakra." The Shinobi do more than just mixing two energies together to enter Sage Mode.

"So that's why his is better than mine, he's got more to work with."

"Sun, what is Touki?" Sun was able to close the gap of power they had with it.

"Yet in his world, he hasn't heard of it." Maybe his world has never known about it. "It's your base of life. When you bring out your life force, and you use it as a form of power. It greatly increases your physical abilities." It sounded similar to what they do with Chakra which is a form of life force for them, if they run out of it they die. Which might be why the Shinobi don't know about it because they might mistake Touki for a form of Chakra and ignore it, but that's just a theory.

"Why did you think I could use it?"

"Because if you're a master of Senjutsu; which you are, you can use your Senjutsu to bring it out, not many can do it." They use Senjutsu to grab hold of their base of life and use Senjutsu as a conduit in order to use it as a form of power. "Or if your physical abilities are at such a high level, you can also bring it out that way." Even less have done it that way.

"Does this mean that me, the Toad Sages and Shinobi like Rock Lee can learn this power?" If that's the case then this is worth looking into, many Shinobi and Sage Users can get even more powerful with this, and to Naruto, this was a godsend. Finally, something new for Naruto to learn and master. What if he learned it, and mixed it in with his Senjutsu Chakra; what would Naruto then become?

"Sun, could you teach me this power?" This is something Naruto has been looking for, a new level to reach.

Sun looked at Naruto silently, and then he took a puff from his pipe. "Well, if I'm staying here for a while, might as well do something right. Sure, I'll teach it to you, maybe you can show me how you used Senjutsu energy along your attacks." They left a mark on Sun; he would like to learn that too.

"Sure, that's fair, thanks ya'know."

The Shinobi and the monkey shook hands, a sign of mutual respect and friendship between the two Sages from two different worlds. Now a new and powerful ally has joined them against this looming threat, whatever it might be.

.

---

It's been a few hours since Sun Wukong arrived in Urakyoto and learned about what's going on, during those hours Sun and Naruto shared thoughts about Sage mode and Touki; and maybe a few things they got up to when causing trouble. Naruto explained that the way he used Sage Mode was a unique fighting style that Toad Sages use. Where Senjutsu energy surrounds the user as both a form of protection and a form of attack that hits an opponent right along ones strike, it's called Frog Kata. Sun explained to Naruto how one trains to use Touki, Naruto will need to use his Senjutsu power to bring out his base of life and harness its power for his own use. He needs to form a bridged between his base of life and his Senjutsu.

"Touki doesn't make Youjutsus more powerful or increase your sensory abilities. But it offers a massive increase to your physical capabilities, depending on how strong your base of life is. The more powerful your life force, the more powerful Touki becomes." Touki is all about the body, you become faster, stronger and more durable; to the point that attacks that before would pierce your skin, would shatter upon contact instead.

Naruto would need to use Senjutsu to connect with his base of life first before he can even start to bring it out. From there, he would need to combine it with his Sage Mode, or better yet, mix it in with his Senjutsu Chakra to create a new form of Sage Mode. Either way, it won't be easy, but when has it ever been.

"Looks like you found something new to strive for Naruto-kun." Hinata joined the two who have been conversing on their own for a while.

"Yep, feels good to find something new to strive for, how about you; how's that secret training going?" Hinata always makes sure she's alone when she starts that training.

"I'm making progress, but it's still a large gap to cross." It's not something that Hinata can just force; it's an evolution she needs to cultivate, and even then it takes time. She's been able to touch it, even use it; for only a few seconds, so it's not ready for practical use yet.

"Power takes time to achieve, even if you quickly gain it; doesn't mean you can use it properly, trying to force an outcome will only backfire." Sun has seen it many times. People try to gain power too quickly, and it comes back to bite them in the ass.

"Which is why I'm taking my time with it, I don't want to try something I'm not ready for and become a liability." Hinata won't cripple herself just to prove a point.

"By the way Sun Wukong, you said before that you wanted the information about Sage Mode kept a secret, why is that?" Hinata remembered about that promise, but it must have slipped Naruto's mind because of the spar they had.

Sun smacked himself on the forehead. "Woops, my bad Hahahahaha; the reason is Hinata is that Senjutsu users aren't too popular with some factions."

"They aren't, why?" Senjutsu is powerful sure, but that alone doesn't explain why some factions would be wary of Naruto because of his Senjutsu.

Sun took a puff from his pipe and had a mournful look. "It's a sad day in Youkai history. But during the Great War, some Devils believed that the Youkai clans that specialised in Senjutsu could become a threat in the future, and so they began a genocidal campaign against them. My own kin were being killed by them, but we found safety with the Hindu Gods. But the Nekomata clan, they were not as fortunate. They didn't have any gods to aid them at the time when their home was attacked, only the few that were outside the village at the time survived." Some people in the factions fear or have concerns about Senjutsu users, due to the risk of madness. If they learned about Sage Mode, they could very well feel great concern with people having it's power and changing the power balance of the world.

Naruto eyes strained under this new information, the Old Devils really were pure scum, taking that faction down is starting to become a personal mission now. Then again, Naruto's own clan suffered the same fate, so evil isn't a Devil exclusive. Naruto will need to be careful around others when it comes to his Senjutsu, he doesn't need people trying to kill him or the Toad Sages under the misconception that they're or going to become insane.

But then Naruto caught onto something, 'Neko' means cat, Kuroka is both a cat and a Senjutsu user, does that mean...

"Kuroka, she's one of the last surviving members, isn't she?"

"Her mother was not in the village when it happened and so survived, fast forward several years, and she came to be, one of the last of a species." The Nekomata didn't deserve that fate.

"We're a bit similar then, I'm one of the two last surviving members of my own clan." Naruto and Kuroka can understand one another in that respect, does Naruto have to worry about Kuroka going off to kill Devils like he does with Raphtalia?

"Naruto, don't mistake the Devils of the past with the Devils of the present. They're not responsible for those atrocities." Many tend to forget that it was the actions of the Old Satan Faction that did most of the cruel things throughout their history that many hate the Devils for.

"I know Sun, but the New Satan Faction are the ones behind that peerage system. Not the Old Satan Faction; they don't even use it." It's the only reason why Raphtalia is still a full Youkai.

"True, but don't judge by the species, judge by the individual." Sun knows that the current Great Satans are trying to change the Devil faction.

"We intend to Sun Wukong, which is why we are hoping to one day met members of other factions, including the Devils to learn about them as people, rather than reputation." Hinata came to Naruto's defence, he would never judge by species, but the Devils haven't been making it easy for him.

"That's good to hear, just make sure you remember, you represent your people after all." Sun knows that these Shinobi have only seen and heard the worst things about Devils. When they meet them, they will need to give them a chance at least. "There is one Devil you should keep an eye out for Naruto." A Devil that even Sun respected.

"Who?"

"His name is Sairaorg, a unique Devil, trust me you'll like him when you meet him."

"Then I'll keep an eye out for him." If Sun likes him, then he must be quite a guy.

"But if you want to learn more about the Devils right now, then let's all gather around a TV and watch something interesting." Sun and many others heard about a particular thing that's about to go down tonight.

"Watch what?"

"You're first Rating Game."

"Huh?"

.

---

Apparently, the Devil faction broadcasts their Rating Games openly, so other factions can see it. Yasaka explained that they do this to showcase their strength to others, but to Naruto, it seemed foolish. If they're at each other's throats right now, then why show your hand to the other side, on TV. It's not like the Chunin exams where the hidden leaf tries to bring the different hidden villages together.

Ok then, if the Devils want to show what they can do, Naruto will oblige; thanks for the free Intel.

Naruto and his team, Sun, Yasaka and Kunou, as well as Kuroka were all together in a living room, all ready to see this Rating Game. Naruto was sitting on a sofa with Hinata to his left. Kunou was sitting on his lap again. Konohamaru was sitting on the floor with his back leaned up against the sofa. Raphtalia was sitting by Hinata's side. Kuroka was sitting on Naruto's right, she was rather close to him. Something that Hinata didn't fail to notice; Naruto didn't really care or notice all that much, his focus is on the game. Yasaka and Sun were sharing another sofa to the right of Naruto's. All set to see this match.

"So who's fighting who?" Which Devils are about to fight it out?

"Rias Gremory of the Gremory Clan and Riser Phoenix of the Phoenix Clan, both High-Class Devils of powerful clans." Sun knew the participants and their respected families.

"This is what we overheard those Devils talking about back at that train station."

"Seems so; man time has sure flown by hasn't it."

"What's their clan's strength?" Hinata would like to know where their power lies.

Yasaka answered her. "The Gremory Clan are born with good control over their demonic power, they also inherited the Power of Destruction from the Bael Clan."

"Power of Destruction?"

"It's a type of magic that destroys what it comes into contact with, it's powerful and it's the reason why Sirzechs Lucifer is as strong as he is."

"Power of Destruction, it sounds a bit like Dust Release." Not something you can really defend against. Naruto hopes to see this Rias use it to get a better understanding about it.

"The Phoenix Clan has power's involving fire and wing. But their main power is their regeneration, being able to restore lost limbs and such, making them hard to defeat." But it didn't make them immortal like they claimed to be.

"Well, let's see what they can do." They have abilities; now let's see how they use them.

The match soon started, they were all summoned to some kind of school. With a barrier like the one around Urakyoto, but much, much smaller. A list of names and images appeared on the side of the screen. Each showing the faces and names of the fighters.

Rias was the king of the team; she had long crimson hair and was admittedly quite beautiful. She was wearing some kind of uniform, school maybe, the rest of her team was wearing the same thing. What's with the short skirts?

Akeno Himejima was the queen of the team, and again, a beautiful girl too, she had long dark hair in a ponytail tied with an orange band. She was wearing a shrine maiden outfit.

Asia Argento was a pretty young blond girl; she looked innocent when compared to the others. So much so that Naruto doesn't think she could ever bring herself to hit anyone. How will Asia fight? Wait, next to her name was the name for a Sacred Gear, Twilight Healing, so she's the team's medic.

The Knight was a handsome blond boy named Yuuto Kiba; he had a Sacred Gear too, Sword Birth, the ability to create all kinds of blades at will.

The rook was a little white-haired girl called Koneko, but Naruto saw her eyes. "The same eyes as Kuroka's." She's a Neko too. Naruto looked over to his right and saw Kuroka looking at this new girl with an earnest look; actually, it was more of a longing look. "That girl is one of the last of her kind, guess it makes sense for Kuroka to feel like that." Naruto could feel a swell of emotions within Kuroka, hope, sadness, desire and even...regret. It was difficult to make heads or tails about what she was truly feeling.

Then Naruto saw the last member of Rias's peerage, a young brown-haired boy called Issei Hyoudou, and Naruto immediately thought that this guy really doesn't belong there. The way he moved and looked around, his physique, his clueless face. "That kid's a rookie among rookies isn't he?" No, he's not even that. Even Asia looked more composed than he does.

"Good eye Naruto, he was only reincarnated two or three weeks ago, and he had no knowledge of the supernatural world at all; barely looks trained. But he's the one with the most potential of that group." Sun could tell that this kid doesn't actually know how to fight, but he has a power that can change the tide in Rias's favour.

"He has a mid-tier Longinus Sacred Gear, the Boosted Gear; so he's the new Red Dragon Emperor." Yasaka knows that means this kid can become powerful one day, but it also means that he's fated to fight a certain someone.

"The ability to double one's power every ten seconds and transfer it, he also has this Balance Breaker which bypasses that time limit. But that means this kids foundations greatly affect his Gears usefulness, '1 x 2 is only 2'. This means he needs time to get the power he needs to fight." So just don't give him that chance, take him down immediately, and its problem solved.

"Also, the Gear strains the user, in a similar way the Curse Mark does, each time he uses it, his body takes a toll. Attrition is the bane of this kids existence." Even if Issei Hyoudou gets power, he's useless if he can't use it right. Guess they will see what he can do with it.

Naruto then turned to look at the opposition, a full peerage of sixteen, but only one guy, and it's the leader. When Naruto looked over his team, he really didn't get what this Riser was going for. "Only three of them look like they can do anything, the rest look weak." It became apparent that is was about variety, not power or skill when it came to Riser's team; each of the girls was wearing some wired get up; are those maids?

"Riser Phoenix, a foul mouth, arrogant Devil who thinks his bloodline makes him superior to others." Yasaka could confidently say that this Devil was one of the bad ones. A man child who was handed everything he has.

Naruto saw his face and could agree; this guy looked arrogant as hell, a smug, punchable face; Naruto was immediately rooting for Rias to win this.

Rias's team was station at some club room, while Riser's base was at the principal's office. The announcer; who sounded like a girl, said that if the pawns of each team make to the other side, they can promote to another piece.

"Pawns are the only ones who can promote, but only in enemy territory, a bit of a design flaw in a real right if you ask me. The rooks offer strength and durability, but at a cost to speed and manoeuvrability. The knight pieces do the opposite while the bishops give the user increased magical power and control but then is weak physically. Then the queen has all the benefits, but you only have one queen." Such a strange concept. It gives advantages, but also disadvantages. Unless you're a pawn, then versatility is not your friend. Each piece only goes in one direction; it's like a game of rock paper scissors, you know what you're up against depending on what piece they have. The queens on both sides look more like bishops than rooks or knights, bit of a waste.

The match was about to begin. "Let's see what the new generation of Devils can do."

.

---

Rias's team lost, but despite the number difference of six to sixteen, they were able to knock Riser's team down to three. But Naruto can honestly say he wasn't at all impressed by their performance in the fighting. "Amateurs, every single one of them; on both sides." Maybe fighting in Rating Games all the time has caused this. If you keep fighting the same kind of battle over and over, with a safety net in place; then this is bound to happen. In the real world; the Shinobi world, they would have been eaten alive, Gaara way back in the Chunin exams would have killed all of them on his own.

Riser's team was about variety, and that's it, the only people of note were Riser, his sister Ravel and his queen dubbed the 'Bomb Queen'. Riser may have won, but it was really Ravel and his queen that did the job; that clown had nothing to boast about, the queen was the one who took Rias's team out, leaving only Rias and Issei.

Speaking of Issei, that kid was something else. "And here I thought Jiraiya was the biggest pervert I knew." Isseis at a younger age too, how bad could he get? Then there is that dress break. Unlike Naruto's sexy Jutsu, which sets up a counter, like he did with Kaguya. But then again Naruto stopped using it after his training trip with Jiraiya and has only used it once since then. Issei used it just to see them naked; when he did that, all the girls in the room looked pissed. Hinata, Raphtalia, Yasaka and even Kuroka looked at him like he was the embodiment of disgust.

"Note to self, never let him near Hinata or Raphtalia. Or meet Sakura." If Issei tried that on his friends, Naruto would beat him to near death. If he did that to Sakura, she would actually kill him.

But he does have potential, the Boosted Gear was able to give him the strength he needed to fight, despite his apparent lack of skills. If the enemy stopped toying with him and tried to end the fight right away, Issei would have lost. "Not one of them tried grabbing him so they could break his arm." The Gear always formed on the same arm, so break that arm. Issei has potential, but he lacks any real direction; it's the difference between a want and a need. He wants to be a pervert, but he needs to protect his friends; he has to choose one, time will tell if he chooses right.

Naruto got a look at the other Gears in action too. Sword birth could create swords to match the enemy, so it's like a 'Swiss Army Knife' that means you don't fight the blade, but the guy swinging it. Asia was a healer, got to give her credit; she stuck around, even when she was riddled with fear.

Akeno used lighting all the time, and relied on flight, she was able to outmatch Riser's queen, but then the queen used something to heal herself and defeated the exhausted Akeno. Yasaka explained how those were phoenix tears, a powerful healing item that heals wounds and restores limbs but can't resort blood or organs.

Koneko showed decent close quarter combat and had good instincts. But she let her guard down and paid the price. When she was taken out, Naruto saw Kuroka flinch, her claws were showing, and they cut up parts of the sofa her hand's were holding on to, and her eyes were filled with rage at the queen who did it. What's strange was she didn't do that for the Neko's on Riser's team. What made Koneko different?

Then when it came to Rias vs Riser, he learned valuable Intel about their abilities. Riser can heal his wounds and limbs very quickly, but it's not regeneration, it's his fire. His fire came out and treated the injury or reformed the limb. "If we use a sealing Jutsu on him that seals away fire, or hit him with fire nullifying effects, then he can't heal." That or just vaporise him in an instant. Riser didn't have durability; one well-placed Rasengan would completely obliterate him. Can't heal when there is no body left to heal, his healing was not instant, fast, but not fast enough, and it won't stop the pain.

Rias's Power of Destruction had no trouble taking Riser's arms; it did remind Naruto of Dust Release. But Dust Release disintegrated its targets on a molecular level; this looked like straight-up destructive power. Which means it can be blocked if whatever it's hitting is more potent than it.

But what Naruto also learned is how these Devils fight; they do a lot of standing around, using magical circles as a defence, but they only block one way.

But in the end, Rias lost, but its how she lost that was telling. She surrendered to save Issei from being killed. She owned Issei, and even if he was killed, she could have still fought on, but she threw the match to save him. Rias valued Issei; a pawn, more than winning. The Devils that Naruto met back in his world would never have done that, not even on their nicest day; she did.

Naruto thought back to want Sun said; how the Devils of the new generation are different. But then there's Riser; one word to describe him; asshole, and the defeats of his peerage members never mattered to him, and he wasn't trying to beat Rias, he was trying to break her.

He even went to kill Issei; someone who clearly couldn't fight anymore, just to prove a point. Naruto heard his words. 'All Deaths in Rating Games are considered accidents.' What he tried to do was a straight-up execution on someone who could not fight back; how could anyone consider that an accident, he's not fit to lead anyone; let alone a sixteen member team. He did it in front of a live audience, with full confidence that he would get away with it scot-free because he's a pureblood Devil from a noble Clan. Makes you wonder, if Issei tried doing the same thing to him, would Issei get away with it.

It's clear that there are some good Devils, but still bad ones too. "Bit of a mixed bag, but it's clear that Issei was loyal to Rias, why though when he's now her 'property'." What does Rias mean to Issei? The other peerage members had a strong bond too. This won't change Naruto's opinion on the evils of the peerage system, but it gave him hope that there are good Devils, Sun was right.

"What did you think, Kurama?"

"Pathetic, every one of them, that Issei brat was the worst; Kami if he was my Jinchuriki..." But Kurama could acknowledge his bravery...a tiny bit. But would rip him to shreds the first chance he gets.

"He didn't give up, even on the verge of death; guys got potential." He can go far. When he gets his priorities straitened out.

"Arguably."

Everyone in the room was talking about their own opinions on the Rating Game, but Kuroka was silent, she was distant.

"Kuroka, what's on your mind?" She didn't respond. Instead, she got up and left the room. When she did that, both Yasaka and Sun had a pained look, they're the only ones who understand what's going on with her.

Naruto got up from his seat and chased after her, the others were about to join him, but Sun Wukong blocked them with his staff. "Leave them be."

.

---

"Where did she go?" Kuroka just up and disappeared on them, Naruto could feel distress within her, and it all began when that Koneko girl got hurt. Seeing one of her own kind like that must have hurt her a lot.

With Kurama's help, Naruto located Kuroka; she was on top of the palace roof, looking up at the moon. Naruto jumped up there to see how she was doing.

He reached the top in a single bounce; Kuroka was still looking at the moon, she never even bother acknowledging his approach. "Kuroka?" No answer, "She's going to be ok, she retired from the game, and she will receive healing." That's how it works.

"Only for it to happen again next time." Kuroka was rather bleak now, completely different from the Kuroka Naruto has come to know other the week.

She was right, the Rating games are the basis for the Devil's power now, there's no getting around that.

Naruto sat down next to her. "She looked happy to be with them."

"Or maybe it's because she has no choice; she has to behave or else." Naruto could feel the hostility in her voice, not directed at him, but the situation at hand.

"The bond that team shared together wasn't a lie, I'm not defending the peerage system, you know I don't like it, but that girl was happy to fight by their side, and she saw them as her precious people." That Koneko viewed them as her friends, maybe even family, there's clearly something going on with that peerage.

Kuroka didn't say anything for a bit, but Naruto did see a tear go down her cheek. Kuroka whispered something under her breath, but Naruto caught it. "What about me, then?"

"Kuroka?"

Kuroka then changed the subject. "Do you know what a stray Devil is?"

"where'd that come from?" Why did Kuroka suddenly ask Naruto that?

But Naruto decided to answer her random question. "They're Devils who ran away from their peerage and their 'king' for one reason or another. They're then hunted down as supposed traitors. But I think the motivation behind why they ran is important." It could've been to escape hell itself; no pun intended.

Kuroka had a quiet laugh. "There's a bit more to it." Kuroka was shaking her head, with a difficult smile. "Oh Naruto, you haven't seen what happens to strays, and I'm not talking about them being hunted and put down." Kuroka said in a condescending tone; Naruto hasn't seen what happens to strays, before the Devils finally find them and kill them.

"Don't ask me how I know this, but there're a lot of reincarnated Devils that would like nothing more than freedom from the peerage system. But they don't have an out, or anyone speaking for them." Those guys are trapped, in every sense of the word.

"Then maybe we need to be the ones to speak for them, to give them that out." Naruto always made it his mission to try and do something about the peerage system.

Kuroka stood up, and started to laugh, but she had tears in her eyes while laughing. Naruto could feel her emotions, it was faint, but Kuroka felt just like Raphtalia did when she saw her village, the sense of hopelessness. "You...you like butting into other people's business don't ya, cute; but stupid, you don't understand and you never will."

Naruto got up. "Kuroka I..." Naruto tried to say something, but she interrupted him.

"I have a sister, her name is Shirone, but because of this stupid world I may never be with her again." It's like the world was between them.

"You don't get it, helping the reincarnated Devils. There is nothing you can do once you become a Devil. Because once they stick that piece in you, that's it; your life will never be the same again, you will remain a Devil for the rest of your life; there's no escaping that fate." Kuroka still had tears in her eyes, not as bad as Raphtalia did, but she couldn't stop it; she was gritting her teeth in anger.

"It's not fair...we..." Kuroka flinched at her blunder. "I mean she, Koneko, she will never know true freedom, or go back to the way things were mean to be." Kuroka didn't ask for any of this.

Naruto reached out for her, but Kuroka slapped his hand away, her face was a mixture of sadness, stress and anger. "You don't understand anything." Kuroka then jumped off the roof of the palace and disappeared into the city; she wanted to be alone.

Naruto wanted to follow her, but that would only drive her further away.

One thing kept ringing in Naruto's head though.

"Why...why did she say we?"

Kuroka, what's going on?

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Back at the Shinobi world, the meeting for the proposed alliance was well underway, the Feudal Lords and Kage were all in attendance.

"Then we are all in agreement." There was no objection.

"Then the mediator between the Shinobi and the Youkai, the representative of the Shinobi Union, and the one who will officially propose the alliance between our peoples." The one who will spearhead this daunting task of diplomacy; along with Naruto.

"Is the Kazekage, Gaara of the Sand."

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Chapter 6: The Monkey Sage: Complete.

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Hope you enjoyed the interactions between Naruto and Sun Wukong and their spar. As well as some of the references to Journey to the West.

Gaara is coming to DXD as a diplomat.

Figured it's about time I let everyone know, but the fifth member of Naruto's harem is Yasaka.

This story will follow Naruto and his team, not Issei and the peerage he's in. Still, they are in this world and story, so I won't just ignore them entirely as if they're not even alive.

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Power of Destruction, Dust Release and Truth Seeker Orbs:

I'm clearing this up here and now but I'm in no way saying that Onoki is stronger than Sirzechs, not even close.

When comparing Dust release to POD, I'd say that Dust release is better at destroying whatever it's hitting, but POD is better in every other category due to its applications.

POD is great explosive power that annihilates what it comes into contact with till there's nothing left (A lot like Amaterasu; burns its target till there's nothing left.) Dust Release breaks apart its targets and disintegrates them on a molecular level; a similar conclusion but with different approaches.

POD destroys, Dust Release disintegrates.

Dust Release can't be blocked, it's never been done, or shown and can only be countered by using: Dust Release, absorbing it with the Rinnegan or using TSO. Dust Release was literally compared to the TSO and we all know how busted they are.

Onoki was able to erase 25 of Madara's full body Susanoos at once (not the perfect Susanoo) and these were Madara's Susanoos; who is way, way stronger than the five Kage combined.

However POD is better in every other way. Unlike Dust Release, POD can be used for defence, is more fluid, and has a greater range of use and versatility. (Sirzechs was able to cover himself in it like a Chakra Cloak.) But POD is not almighty like some people think, as it can be countered with range attacks, and can even be bodied. Kokabiel took a full charged up attack from Rias without any care in the world; Rias was buffed by Issei's power when she did this, and Kokabiel still came out of it pretty much unscaved and Kokabiel was way stronger than Rias and her whole peerage at the time. If he tried that against Dust Release then Kokabiel would be dead.

Sirzechs is way, way stronger than Rias, but if he was in the same position, and up against someone stronger than him, the result would be the same. (If not then what's stopping him from killing Indra in a fight; why does it take all the three faction's leaders to match him.)

TSO puts both of these powers to shame because unless you have Sixth Paths power. (Which only Naruto and Sasuke Do) If they touch you, you're getting erased by these without question. (TOD completely ignores all forms of defence, since they erase like Dust Release does, AND nullify at the same time.) and if your attacks don't have Senjutsu, then they will be erased and nullified too.

I don't want people thinking that I'm saying Onoki would beat Sirzechs. Sirzechs would murder Onoki.

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Next: Chapter 7: The Alliance.

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