For Neji Hyuuga, it all happened in less than a blink of an eye, but for his companions and new made friends, everything went excruciatingly slow before their eyes. The dark light beam drilled a perfect circle on his chest, the empty void quickly filled with the color of crimson and tainting the pure white of his cloth. A pair of bandage-less arms caught his limping body before it hit the cold hard dirt, and a roar of rage shattered the tranquility of dawn. Raph stormed over the culprit like a tornado, emerald fingers encased around the neck of the shadow sorcerer.

- HOW DARE YA!? - He howled.

- Serves you right... insects - The dark wizard choked, coughing out black blood - Enjoy... the sight of your friend's... death...

With that, what's left of his shadow body evaporated into the wind, leaving the warrior ninja's hand gripping thin air. Raph spun back at the sight of the white eye boy in the arms of his comrades, Tenten's tear streaming down her battered cheeks:

- No! Please Neji! Don't do this to us! - She desperately beg, holding his hand in her own shaking ones.

- You can't die here, Neji-kun. We haven't settled our match yet! - Lee lightly shook the limp body of his friend and rival, trying his best to hold back the tear.

- We have to do something! Anything! - Ue urged.

- Leonardo-san, please! - Tenten turned to him - When you transformed, your light healed him. Please save him!

Leo didn't even need for her to ask. He immediately kneeled down next to Neji and focused his ki, one hand hovering above the fatal wound. Blue lightning mark started to spread over him, but its light was no more than a weak glow. It flickered for a short moment, then dimmed for everyone's despair. Leo could feel the mystic ki drained from him, but he refused to give up. Shutting his eyes, the blue clad turtle called up till his last neuron to concentrate. His body screamed its protest, but Leo ignored them all. Even if he was to collapse, as long as Neji was saved, he didn't give a damn.

- Come on... come on... - The repeating mantra flowed out Leo's gritted teeth, encouraging himself.

The light shone and flickered once more, but the healing effect, as Tenten had seen, did nothing to heal the bleeding wound.

- We should all join in - Don suggested - Leo's exhausted. We have to do this together.

All three of his brothers swiftly sat around him in lotus position, and focused. In the astral plane, Leo could feel three more streams of ki flowing to his, pouring in what's left of their energy to save their friend, while his own desperately search for a weak, dimming ki, the one which belong to Neji. Sitting beside them, Tenten, Lee, Ue and Usagi could do nothing but pray for them in a hopeless race against death...

:::

Where... where am I...?

Why is everything so dark...?

Am I... death?

Neji found himself wandering around in the dark, his famous Byakugan saw nothing but a pitch black veil. Memroy started flowing back to his mind, and he realized he no longer existed in the realm of the living. The Hyuuga prodigy unconsiously put a hand over his chest, only to find it completely unscathed. The wound on his side also disappeared, as if it was never there. Panic lurked somewhere in the back of his head, but his concern for his teammates and friends was far greater than that. In the haze of victory, no one noticed the remnant of the shadow sorcerer had landed behind them. If it wasn't for the 360 degree vision of his Byakugan, Leonardo would be the one in his place right now, and he would never forgive himself.

It's better this way - He thought - I'm sorry, Lee-kun. I'll have to miss our rematch.

Continued in a straight line, Neji soon saw from afar a faint glow. The warm light guided him toward it, revealing itself to be the light from a candle. On its other side, a man was sitting there, looking at him with a gentle smile.

- Hello, Neji. - He said.

- Greeting... chichue - Neji respectfully bowed.

Hizashi Hyuuga waved for his son to sit next to him. He looked the same as Neji's last memory of him when he was alive: young and passionate, except for the enduring pain that was no longer there. Both father and son sat in silence for a while, enjoying each other's company before Hizashi spoke:

- You saw me, knowing where you are, yet you are not afraid.

- Not at all, chichue. Ever since you sacrifice for the clan, I was prepared for this day - Neji calmly said.

- It's a shame you have to come here at such a young age - His father replied with a sad smile - There's so much your eye have yet to see.

- I suppose so, but then, if my life can save another, I bear no regret.

- Just like me when I died for your uncle - Hizashi crossed his arms - I see a different look in your eyes, Neji. Did something happen?

- I came a long way, and it took me a lot to realize how blind I've been.

- I'd like to hear all about that, son. We have all the time in the world.

And so Neji told his father about the unique rival that was Lee and Naruto, how the blond, gusty ninja in orange suit had opened his eye and erased the grudge between him and the main branch with just one punch. Then there was the epic rescue of a fallen friend who was lost in the path of darkness, Sasuke Uchiha. Lastly, the strange showdown between his team and the turtles, along with the retrieval mission which result in him coming here, joining his father in the afterlife. Hizashi listened closely without saying a word, his face brimming with pride.

- ... And before I knew it, I'm already here - Neji concluded his story.

They both fell silent afterward, letting the story linger around. Hizashi contemplated over his son's adventure, knowing that from now on, the Hyuuga clan would never be the same.

- My only regret is that I left you alone, knowing that you'd hold a grudge against Hiashi and Hinata, but now I can be at peace. I'm proud to call you my son, Neji Hyuuga.

- And I'm glad that I was born your son, chichue - Came the reply.

The light from the candle, after the long story, had started to dwindle. Its flickering light drew both the Hyuugas' attention.

- I think it's time for us to move on, son. - Hizashi stood up, along with Neji.

- Yes, chichue. We can finally rest in peace.

As both father and son set to a slow stroll, a warm disturbance in the air washed over them, making them turn around. A faint stream of light coming from above approached them, with voices echoing from afar.

- ... Neji...

- ... Neji-kun...

- Did you hear that? - Hizashi turned to his son.

- Yes, chichue. Someone is calling me.

As they were still marveling at the light, it suddenly burst out, enveloping them both.

- Neji! Come back here ya son of a bitch! - A rumbling voice shook them to the core - Don't make me go there and kick yer ass!

- I assume this is the Raphael you spoke of? - Hizashi said, looking amused.

- Yes. He has a rather... colorful language - Neji couldn't help but chuckle.

- Hurry up Neji-san! I cannot keep this up for much longer - Ue's strained voice came next.

- I will never forgive you if you give up on us! - Lee yelled.

Followed with the endless calling was a hurdle of ki. It wrapped around the white boy and pulled him further away from his father.

- I'm sorry chichue. - Neji resisted the force, trying to stay with Hizashi for a few seconds more - It seems I have unfinished business there.

- Then go, son. It still too soon for you to be here anyway. Go! Go and make your own destiny! - Hizashi called up to him.

- I will! I love you, chichue!

With a strong jerk, the light pulled Neji away.

:::

The crowd all stood on their feet as the Gyoji solidify on the arena, waving his fan to erect the barrier for the ring:

- Welcome to the final round of the Battle Nexus! We deeply apologize for all the suspense and inconvenient. Let us rejoice and welcome our two final contestants!

The crowd's cheer was muffled where the Daimyo was, but for the younglings before him, it was more than enough to fill their heart with fighting spirit.

- Are you both prepared? - The Daimyo asked.

- As prepared as I'll ever be. - Leo bowed.

- Yosh! I'm ready for the final match! Please proceed! - Lee punched the palm of his hand, his face slightly red, probably due to the excitement - Please fight me with everything you have, Leonardo-kun.

- I will hold nothing back. Word of honor! - Came the reply.

- Then fight with all of your power! - The Battle Nexus ruler raised his staff above them - May the best, most honorable warrior wins!

All of them was transported into the spectator area, saved for Leo and Lee who appeared in the ring, just as the magic screen above showed their names:

LEONARDO HAMATO

VS

ROCK LEE

Beside the turtles and Tenten, Usagi eagerly pushed a wheelchair forward, allowing Neji the best view possible. The white eye boy still looked pale from the recovery, but his face immediately brightened up at the sight of his teammate in the ring.

- Thank you, Myamoto-san - Neji said.

- Please, call me Usagi - The rabbit samurai moved to stand beside him - I would not miss this match for anything in the world, were I you, my friend.

- Definitely. I have all of you to thank for that, though.

That didn't even begin to express how grateful Neji was, as he recalled the memory of his resurrection. The pain in his chest as he pried his eyes open was agonizing, but it was gone the moment he saw the faces of his friends, all wore the same relieve expression. A miracle had happened when Ue called forth the power of the War Staff, channeling its energy and linking everyone's ki together. All of it was poured into Leo so he could activate his mystic force. For a brief moment they were even able to connect their conscious, calling Neji back to the world of the living. It was a risk Leo and his brothers had to take, despite their past encounter with Draco and the Ultimate Ninja when they tried to control it. Consider Ue's inexperience, it was truly a miracle.

Don lightly tapped on his shoulder, his face full of concern:

- Are you sure you're well enough? The Daimyo could let you see it in the infirmary anyway.

- I'm alright, Donatello-san. Lee-kun is both my friend and rival. I have to witness this and not missing anything.

- Speaking of him - Tenten frowned, her eyes never left her green teammate - Don't you think he's a little... odd today?

Everyone turned toward Lee as the gong sounded. Leo didn't waste any second to activate the mystic ki, ready for Lee's move. To his confused, the boy in green just stood there, immobile, if he wasn't a bit... swayed.

- Tenten, you don't think - Neji quickly darted his eyes over her.

- I... I think he did it - Tenten mumbled, her face drained of blood.

- What's with him? - Raph asked - He looks like he's drunk.

- Did anybody saw him drinking anything? - Neji asked, his face marred with panic.

- I did - The red clad turtle said, to Team Gai's horror - We went and grab a beer since I saw him a little thirsty. That stuff ain't that strong.

But the reaction from Tenten and Neji told another story. Slowly, Tenten put a hand on his emerald shoulder:

- Raphael-san, what have you done?

- Come again?

Tenten was about to answer when a roar from the crowd cut her off. Within the protected barrier, Leo was doing nothing but staying in defense position. An after-image of Lee could be seen occasionally here and there, but the actual body of the boy was a green blur darting in and out, toying with the blue clad turtle with the speed that put his lightning bolts to shame.

- What's happening? - Mikey widened his eyes in absolute shock - He wasn't that fast when he fights me! And he isn't even using his"gate" thingy!

- It's the alcohol - Neji explained, his face drenched in sweat - Raphael-san, please don't tell me there's alcohol in this 'beer' you speak of.

- Duh, it's just a little, but yeah, there is alcohol in it.

- Just as we feared. Lee reacts extremely bad to alcohol. When he consumes just even a little bit of it, he turns into... that.

Neji motioned his hand to show them. Leo had decided that he'd had enough and switched to offense, but even with Lee completely stood in one place, Leo couldn't land a single hit. Twisting around and leaning over, even bending backward, the drunken boy evaded everything Leo throw at him.

- Lee-kun isn't aware of this himself - Tenten quipped - But he's a genius at drunken fist. If Leonardo-kun can't bring him back to his senses, he's done for.

In the ring, Leo already figured out that he's not fighting the usual Rock Lee. Not only the angular attack oddly reminded him of Mikey, but the brute strength resembled his hothead brother a lot. With this speed and power, Leo could only think of outwitting Lee in order to win. Letting go of his ki, he deactivated the mystic force and took stance. Lee's still swaying around and seemed to attack randomly, but suddenly he lunged forward and threw a punch right at Leo. The forest green turtle swiftly spun on his heel and let the fist slide past him, one hand right over Lee's head, intending to strike the back of his neck. But out of nowhere a foot came up from behind the green boy, and if Leo wasn't quick enough to block it with his free hand, it might landed right at his face. Leo didn't hesitate to bring his hand down, knocking Lee out of consciousness, but his hand chopped into thin air, as Lee's head dropped and out of the chop's trajectory. With the momentum, another foot came up and hit Leo square in the face. Staggering back, Leo rubbed his beak before a grinning Lee.

- Whaaaaatdaya staring at? - The boy slurred - Don't you know it's rude to stare at people?

- Snap out of it Lee, you're drunk! - Leo called out to no avail.

- DON'T JOKE WITH MEEEH! I'm underage, I'm not allowed to drink alcohol!

With that, the green boy launched himself forward, head-butting Leo right in the stomach. Leo didn't waste any moment to grab the boy in a bear hug, immediately let the mystic ki surge up and give Lee a good jolt. But...

- What... do you think... you're doing? - Lee continued to slur, drooling all over Leo.

Using ridiculous flexibility, Lee brought his legs up and locked between them, prying him out of his arms and propelling him back using Leo as stepping stone. The crowd was definitely entertained, since mixed with the cheering, they could make out some laugh at the drunken fist genius.

- Alright Lee - Leo growled, patience going out the window - You asked for it. No more Mr. Nice turtle.

Brought forth the full power of his mystic ki, Leo unsheathed his katana and coated it nicely with blue lightning. He took stance and closed his eyes. Lee's still swaying, one foot kicking another, then the next second, he was gone. Spectators all stood on their feet as the green blur shot around, closing in on the blue clad turtle. Leo was doing his best to maintain maximum power for his katana, all the while follow Lee's movement through his ki. It was embarrassing enough to have a drunkard giving him a hard time, he refused to lose. It was another similar trait he shared with his hothead brother, though he never admit it. This was either sink or swim, he had only one shot.

- Hoooooaaaaarrrhhhhh! - Lee yelled right at his ear, everything else throwing to the wind.

It took the blue clad turtle everything not to flinch and swing his katana. It was just a feint and Lee was still zipping in an unpredictable course, raising the speed and also the heat from the arena. Up above, their friends all but held their breath, praying for the best.

- What's he waiting for? - Raph impatiently slammed s fist to the balcony - Lee can finish him any moment if he don't attack first.

- Leonardo-san has only one chance, he has to time it right - Neji strained his eyes to follow his green teammate - It will end very bad for the both of them if he misses.

Just as Neji finished his sentence, the arena exploded in a roar as Leo struck his katana forward, while the green blur was going on a perpendicular line. The blast smashed a large line on the ring and almost made the barrier collapse. Dust and debris flew everywhere, once again clouding what's going on, to the spectators' disappointment and to the turtles and co's horror, except for the Byakugan user. It happened in split-second, but Neji managed to capture the crucial moment that decided everything. Just before the blade of Leo's katana could do any harm, Lee already punched right to its side, blowing the blast away. With his free hand, the green boy dug his fingers to the ring to halt himself, launching his knee and the rest of his body right to Leo's temple. Before they both collided though, they heard a 'zap' and Leo reappeared on the spectator area, his face still drained from blood, but otherwise unharmed.

- Well, so much for the Battle Nexus Champion. - He breathed out after regaining his composure.

:::

- Rock Lee, Neji Hyuua and Leonardo Hamato. Step forward!

It was the ceremony to celebrate the new champion of the Battle Nexus. Lee still couldn't believe he made it with the state he was in, even after everyone told him how ridiculously amazing he was with his drunken fist.

- For the valiant demonstration of skill and power, I crown you, Rock Lee, the Battle Nexus Champion!

Lee felt a shudder of delight as a wave of applause washed over him, the trophy rested comfortably in his hands. Nevertheless, he won the competition fair and square. Leo even put a hand on his shoulder to congratulate him.

- For the noble sacrifice and unyielding spirit, I hereby award you, Neji Hyuuga and Leonardo Hamato, the Battle Nexus Medal, for unparalleled honour!

Another round of applause even louder cheered for the two young heroes, as the sapphire jewels were hung around their necks. All three bowed to the great Daimyo, then turned around to bask themselves in the glory of the winner's place. Mikey, who sulked just for the sake of losing his chance to become the Battle Nexus Champion, even cheered for Gai's favourite student, along with his brothers and friends.

Not too long after that was the time they all need to return to their own world. Ue tried his best to hold back the tear.

- Next year I'll be joining the Tournament as well. I shall not lose to any of you.

- I wouldn't expect anything less, Ue-san – Leo shook his trembling hand – Thank you, for lending me the power I need to save Neji.

- It was everyone's effort – Tenten reminded him – We can never repay you enough.

- I think I'll return to this Tournament again – Lee nudged Mikey – I'd like to challenge you all again without any interruption.

- Meep – Was all Mikey could manage. There's no way he could win with all these monstrous of a friend like Lee and Neji around.

- Thank you everyone – Leo turned to team Gai one last time, before walking into the dimensional gate – Hope to see you again.

- The feeling is mutual, Leonardo-san – Neji bowed – And it should be us to thank you, for the breath-taking adventure.

They bid each other farewell, closing the final page for their journey in the Battle Nexus multiverse…

… or so they thought.

- WHAT? The Daimyo cut the payment in half? – Tsunade shrieked – That damn old good-for-nothing geezer! How dare he?

- Well… he said it was all a set up, so the mission level would be in class A only, not class S – Gai was seating like crazy in front of a furious Hokage.

- I'm gonna rip his head off – The blond woman almost breathed out fire – SHOW ME THE WAY TO THAT GODDAMN MULTIVERSE!

A/N: That's all, folks. The final chapter. It was fun. Thank you for reading this far until the end. I may be back on some more crossovers ^^