A/N

Hello everyone, back with another update!

As always, before we dive into the chapter, I'll address a few questions since the last one seems to have left some readers a bit confused about my direction.

Solice XXX – I understand your concern that Wukong isn't typically driven by vengeance, and you're right he wouldn't kill without reason. But in my story, he has plenty of reasons for his actions. Before being sealed, many of his own kind were killed, and he was betrayed by former allies angels, devils, and gods all played a part. His quest for freedom was denied by the heavens, and they never intended to grant him any.

Remember, this is also a mix with the game.

Yes, at his peak, he was the strongest, but he was still had the binding when he was sealed.

Trying to balance power levels across different series is tough, but I'm doing my best Xd.

Thanks for the future ideas Naruto will definitely face some disrespect later on, just like we all did on that last boss…..

Let's get to some of the smaller ones.

SonicBlast4444 – It's possible he could learn it in the future, I hadn't thought about it, but maybe.

tanquihuynh74 – Yes, I'll make sure the technique is done right

Ashura the Infinite – Thank you so much for your kind words! I hope you continue enjoying the story.

Daua002 – More lore is always a good thing; I see you like it. Many more to come.

Samuel Santillan – As Naruto unlocks more memories, we'll see them begin to blend, which could lead to some fun personality conflicts. The factions will definitely play a big role in upcoming arcs, and I can't wait to write them.

The Faceless Wordsmith – Sona is best girl, no doubt!

RandoFox – I don't want to focus too much on romance and lose track of the story.

alvarolepa1511 – Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere.

AlphaWolf00117 – Thank you for the support, I hope you keep reading and enjoying the story!

R-king 93 – Have a great day too!

Valkoor123113 – Play the beat?

Alright, now that we've gotten through all that, let's dive into the chapter. Sorry for the long note, but I didn't want to leave any questions unanswered.

Feel free to PM me if you have anything else you'd like to ask.

Enjoy!

Chapter 8 - Pretender

Naruto spent many of his evenings listening to Zhu Bajie's endless stories about their shared history. The pig-like deity, who had once traveled alongside Wukong on the famous Journey to the West, was as much a storyteller as he was a warrior. Each night, after their training or casual discussions, Naruto would sit under the stars and let Bajie's tales of adventure, triumph, and mischief wash over him.

"Ah, those were the days," Bajie would say, often with a laugh or a sigh. "Wukong and I caused quite a bit of chaos back in the day. You should have seen the trouble we stirred up along the way. Erlang, Yellowbrow, Kang Jin... they were always on our tail, but Wukong never backed down."

Naruto, fascinated by the stories but also deeply curious about his own connection to this legendary past, found himself asking questions. "What about me? I mean… Wukong? What kind of person was he?"

Bajie chuckled. "You were wild reckless, but always with a purpose. You challenged the heavens, the gods, and even the Buddha himself. But despite all the chaos, there was always something noble in you, deep down."

Naruto absorbed the words, feeling a mixture of pride and confusion. He was still struggling to reconcile who he was now, Naruto Uzumaki, with the legendary figure of Sun Wukong. There was a sense of responsibility growing within him, a realization that his past would eventually catch up to him and that he needed to be ready.

One evening, as the two sat beneath the moonlit sky, Bajie took a more serious tone. "Naruto, there's something you need to find," he began, glancing at Naruto with a meaningful look. "Wukong had a lot of treasures, but there's one that's key to unlocking everything you've forgotten your Gourd."

Naruto furrowed his brow, instantly remembering what Wukong had mentioned in the past. "Wukong told me about that. He said it holds the key to all my memories."

Bajie nodded. "That's right. It's not just any treasure it's a sacred one, tied to your very soul. It has the power to restore your memories and awaken the full potential of Sun Wukong within you."

Naruto sat up straighter, intrigued. "So where is it? How do I get it?"

Bajie scratched his chin, his pig-like snout wrinkling in thought. "Well, that's where things get… complicated. Last I heard, the Gourd was in the possession of Yellowbrow, one of those self-righteous celestial pests we used to deal with."

Naruto frowned. "Yellowbrow? I think Wukong mentioned him once… but I don't remember much."

Bajie waved his hand dismissively. "Ah, Yellowbrow's just one of those gods who got a little too big for his boots. We clashed with him a few times, and somehow, he ended up with the Gourd."

Naruto stood up, feeling a surge of determination. "Alright, then let's go find this Yellowbrow and get the Gourd back."

But Bajie held up a hand, laughing nervously. "Whoa, hold on, kid! That's just where I think it was. You see, it might not be that simple." His eyes twinkled with mischief as he scratched the back of his head.

Naruto sighed, already sensing there was more to the story. "What do you mean?"

Bajie leaned back, rubbing his belly thoughtfully. "The thing is, it's been many years since then, and the Gourd might have… traveled around a bit."

Naruto crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. "Travelled around? Like where?"

Bajie nodded, his face growing serious for a moment. "Well, after Yellowbrow, it could've ended up with a few others. There was this rat in the desert who was always sniffing around for treasures could've gotten his hands on it. Or maybe that stupid bear we used to fight with he was obsessed with collecting sacred items."

Naruto blinked, feeling his frustration grow. "So, you don't know where it is."

Bajie continued, as if Naruto hadn't spoken. "Or it could've gone to one of my old flames… Ah yes, Violet Spider! She was always fascinated by Wukong and had a thing for his treasures. You know, Me and Violet Spider had quite the complicated past lots of feelings there." Bajie shook his head, grinning to himself as he remembered those days. "She always liked keeping things close."

Naruto's eyes twitched as he listened to Bajie's increasingly vague list of potential treasure-holders. "So basically, you have no idea where it is."

Bajie finally stopped, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Well, it's been a long time, Naruto. The Gourd could've been passed around more than I remember. These things have a habit of changing hands."

Naruto let out a long, exasperated sigh, running his hands through his hair. "Great. So we're back to square one."

Bajie slapped Naruto on the back, nearly knocking him over. "Ah, don't worry about it! We'll figure it out. We've got time, and with Wukong's power growing in you, I'm sure we'll come across it sooner or later."

Naruto looked up at the sky, his thoughts swirling. The Gourd was important he could feel it deep in his gut. It wasn't just about the power it could unlock; it was about discovering who he truly was. But with no clear direction and only Bajie's scattered memories to guide him, it felt like chasing shadows.

As the night wore on, Naruto stood up and stretched, his resolve slowly hardening. "I guess we'll just have to start somewhere. Maybe Yellowbrow is still the best lead we've got."

Bajie grinned, standing up beside him. "That's the spirit, kid. I knew I could count on you to take things seriously."

Naruto smirked. "If Wukong's memories are locked in that Gourd, then I'll find it no matter where it's been passed around to. I'm not letting the past control me, but I need to understand it."

Bajie nodded, his grin full of pride. "Good thinking. With me by your side, and Wukong's power growing within you, we'll find that Gourd whether it's with Yellowbrow, that rat, that bear, or even The Spider."

Naruto laughed, shaking his head. "Let's just hope it's not with her. I don't need any more complications."

As they made their way back to town, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling that this was the beginning of something bigger. His journey was far from over, and the more he learned about Wukong's past, the more he realized how intertwined their fates were. Finding the Gourd was only the next step, but it was a crucial one.

Naruto stood at the edge of town, looking up at the sky as he prepared for the journey ahead. His mind was racing with thoughts of finding Wukong's Sacred Gourd the key to unlocking his memories and tapping into the full extent of his powers. Ever since Wukong's power had begun awakening within him, Naruto had become the owner of the Somersault Cloud, a legendary mode of transportation that allowed him to soar through the skies at incredible speeds. He had used it before and was now growing comfortable with the strange, exhilarating experience.

"Alright," Naruto muttered to himself, summoning the golden cloud with a thought. It appeared almost instantly, swirling and shimmering in front of him, ready for the journey.

Just as he was about to hop on, Zhu Bajie, let out a hearty laugh behind him. "Ah, the Somersault Cloud. Brings back memories!" Bajie said, slapping his belly. "You've gotten used to it, huh? Faster than anything on the ground, that's for sure."

Naruto grinned. "Yeah, it's pretty handy. We'll get to where we need to go in no time with this thing."

Bajie chuckled, clearly impressed. "You're lucky to have it, kid. Wukong always kept it close, and it never let him down. We'll be flying over deserts and mountains before you can blink."

Naruto gave a nod but then hesitated, a thought crossing his mind. "Before we go, though, I need to let someone know where I'm heading."

Bajie tilted his head, still not quite understanding. "Why would you need to tell anyone where you're heading? You're Sun Wukong reincarnated! The great Monkey King didn't need to answer to anyone."

Naruto sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah, well, I'm also Naruto Uzumaki. I don't like leaving people in the dark, especially with everything going on with Rias and the Rating Game."

Bajie's eyes twinkled mischievously, a grin spreading across his face. "Ahhh, now I get it! You've got someone you want to say goodbye to, don't you?"

Naruto blushed, his face turning red as he waved his hands defensively. "It's not like that! I just want to let someone at school know in case something else happens. That's it!"

Bajie chuckled to himself, but didn't push the matter. "Alright, alright. Go ahead and say your goodbyes, lover boy."

Naruto gave him a sidelong glance but said nothing as they quickly made their way to Kuoh Academy. Bajie, however, couldn't stop grinning, clearly enjoying teasing Naruto.

Naruto rushed through the school halls, eventually making his way to the student council room. He knocked on the door, and after a moment, Sona Sitri, the stern and composed Student Council President, opened it. Her expression softened slightly when she saw him, though she still carried her usual air of formality.

"Naruto," she said, her voice calm but curious. "What brings you here?"

Naruto scratched the back of his head nervously, already feeling awkward about the situation. "Hey, Sona. I just wanted to let you know that I'm heading out of town for a few days. There's something I need to take care of."

Sona raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Heading out of town? For what purpose?"

Before Naruto could come up with an explanation, the door behind him swung open, and Bajie came walking in with his usual swagger. He looked around the room with a smug grin on his face before his eyes landed on Sona. His eyes widened slightly, and then a mischievous smile spread across his face.

"Ahhh, now I understand why you wanted to say goodbye," Bajie said, stepping forward and looking Sona up and down. "This one's quite the looker, isn't she?"

Naruto's face flushed bright red as he waved his hands defensively. "Bajie! That's not ! I just came here to let her know in case something happens while I'm gone!"

Bajie laughed heartily, clearly enjoying Naruto's embarrassment. "Wukong wasn't much for romance back in the day, but it looks like Naruto has a softer side. You've got good taste, kid."

Naruto covered his face with his hand, shaking his head in disbelief. "It's not like that. I just don't want anyone worrying if I don't make it back before the Rating Game. That's all."

Sona, who had been watching the interaction with a mixture of amusement and curiosity, adjusted her glasses slightly. "I appreciate the notice, Naruto, though I'm curious what is it that requires your attention?"

Naruto sighed, grateful for the chance to steer the conversation away from Bajie's teasing. "There's something I need to find something important. It's part of Wukong's past, and I think it'll help me get stronger. But it might take a while."

Sona studied him for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. "I see. I can respect that, Naruto. I'll make sure to inform Rias of your absence, and if anything happens while you're gone, I'll let you know immediately."

Naruto smiled, feeling a sense of relief. "Thanks, Sona. I appreciate it."

Bajie, still grinning, stepped forward again, winking at Sona. "Well, we've got to be off. Can't keep the journey waiting. But hey, if you ever want to tag along, I'm sure Naruto wouldn't mind the company."

Naruto turned bright red again, pulling Bajie back by the collar of his robe. "We're leaving now, thanks!"

Sona smiled slightly, clearly entertained by the situation. "Good luck, Naruto. I hope you find what you're looking for."

Naruto gave her a small wave as he dragged Bajie out of the room. "Thanks again! I'll be back soon!"

As they left the student council room, Naruto could hear Bajie chuckling to himself, still thoroughly amused by the entire encounter.

Once outside the school, Naruto finally let go of Bajie's robe, glaring at him as they stood in the courtyard. "What the heck was that back there?"

Bajie laughed, his belly shaking with amusement. "Come on, kid. I'm just teasing you. It's obvious you care about her, and I have to admit, She's got quite the sharp wit. Wukong may not have been much for romance, but there's no harm in making connections."

Naruto sighed, still embarrassed but no longer angry. "I just didn't want anyone worrying while we're gone. I'm not looking for anything else right now."

Bajie gave him a sly grin. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say."

Naruto rolled his eyes, but a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. Despite Bajie's teasing, he couldn't deny that the pig-like deity's company was making things a little easier. "Alright, enough of that. We've got a journey ahead of us. Let's get moving."

With a thought, Naruto summoned the Somersault Cloud, which appeared instantly, swirling with golden light. It hovered just above the ground, shimmering in the moonlight, ready for their adventure.

Bajie's grin widened as he hopped onto the cloud. "Just like old times. Hop on, kid we've got some treasure to hunt!"

Naruto followed suit, jumping onto the cloud next to Bajie. As soon as they were both aboard, the cloud shot up into the sky, speeding through the night faster than Naruto could have imagined.

The town quickly disappeared below them as they soared through the sky, heading toward unknown lands in search of Wukong's lost treasure. The wind whipped through Naruto's hair, and despite everything that had happened, he couldn't help but feel excited.

Naruto and Zhu Bajie flew swiftly across the sky on the Somersault Cloud, the land below them a blur of mountains, forests, and deserts. The wind whipped past them as they soared through the sky, but Naruto's mind was far from the beauty of the world beneath him. The more time passed, the more the weight of his responsibilities as the reincarnation of Sun Wukong pressed down on him.

Bajie, sitting comfortably beside him, leaned back and folded his arms behind his head. His usual carefree demeanor was present, but Naruto had begun to notice a more serious side to his companion the longer they traveled.

"Kid," Bajie said, breaking the silence. "You've got to start focusing on becoming stronger. You may have inherited Wukong's powers, but the title of Sun Wukong isn't something you can carry lightly. There are a lot of people beings, really who'd love to take a shot at you. Wukong made plenty of enemies back in the day, and they won't hesitate to come after you for a little payback."

Naruto frowned, staring ahead as the clouds whipped past them. "Yeah, I know. I've already had a run-in with one of them… Red Boy."

Bajie's expression shifted slightly, his usual grin fading. "Red Boy, huh? That brat's always been trouble. So, what happened?"

Naruto shrugged, remembering the fight clearly. "He challenged me. We fought, and I managed to hold my own, but he wasn't trying his hardest. In the end, he left, saying he'd be back."

Bajie nodded, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Red Boy's no joke. If he walked away from a fight, that means he's biding his time, waiting for the right moment to strike again. And trust me, he won't come back alone next time."

Naruto clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the situation even more. "Yeah, I figured as much. He's not the only one, is he?"

Bajie shook his head, his tone more serious than before. "No, kid. Not by a long shot. Wukong had plenty of enemies demons, celestial beings, even gods. They all hated him for what he represented: defiance. The Monkey King didn't play by the rules of the heavens or the earth. That's why they feared him. And now you've inherited that title."

Naruto's mind wandered back to the devils he had grown close to Rias, Issei, Sona, and the rest. He cared for them, even if he wasn't a devil himself. But the reality was starting to set in, his responsibilities as Sun Wukong weren't just about helping his friends in their battles. He had his own war to fight a war against enemies from a past life, beings who would come for him whether he liked it or not.

Bajie glanced over at Naruto, reading the tension in his posture. "Look, kid, I get it. You care about those devils you've been hanging around with, and that's fine. But don't forget who you are now. You carry the mantle of Sun Wukong, and that comes with a lot of baggage. You can't afford to get distracted."

Naruto's eyes flickered with frustration. "I know. I'm not trying to forget who I am. I just don't want to abandon the people who've helped me."

Inside his mind, Wukong's voice echoed, a mixture of wisdom and amusement. "Bajie's right, you know. You've got a big responsibility now, Naruto. You've done well to stand by those devils, but the truth is, you have to get stronger. The enemies from my past won't wait for you to figure things out. They're coming, and they won't care who you've made friends with. You'll be the target."

Naruto sighed, his hands gripping the edges of the Somersault Cloud. "So what? I'm just supposed to focus on training and let everything else fall apart around me?"

"It's not about letting things fall apart," Wukong replied, his tone firm but not harsh. "It's about surviving. You're carrying the title of Sun Wukong, The Great Sage, Equal to heaven , and that means you have to be ready for anything. If you don't get stronger, the devils you care about won't stand a chance when my old enemies start showing up. And they will show up."

Naruto closed his eyes for a moment, letting the words sink in. He had always wanted to protect his friends whether it was back when he was just Naruto Uzumaki or now, as Sun Wukong reincarnated. But he couldn't deny the truth in Wukong's words. The title of Monkey King carried with it more danger than he could have imagined.

"I understand," Naruto said softly. "I'll focus on the task at hand. I'll get stronger. I have to."

Bajie, who had been watching him quietly, nodded in approval. "Good. That's the right attitude. We'll track down that Gourd, and along the way, we'll make sure you're ready for whatever's coming. Wukong's enemies are crafty, and they'll come at you from every angle, but we've got time to prepare."

The air grew colder as the Somersault Cloud approached its destination. The vibrant greenery and rolling hills had given way to a stark, frozen landscape. The towering mountains ahead were covered in a thick blanket of snow, their peaks lost in the swirling mists above. The temperature plummeted the closer they got, and Naruto could feel the cold biting at his skin, despite the supernatural speed at which they travelled.

Naruto could feel it. The air here was heavy with old memories, and the closer they got to the peak, the more he could sense Wukong stirring inside him. This wasn't just any mountain. This was a place where Wukong's past had left a mark, and now Naruto was about to revisit it.

As they landed on a ledge halfway up the mountain, the biting wind blew snow and ice against their faces. Bajie stepped off the cloud and looked around, shaking his head as his breath fogged in the frigid air.

"This place…" Bajie muttered, his voice more serious than usual. "Wukong's got history here. Bad history."

Naruto nodded, gripping the Ruyi Jingu Bang that was now resting at his side. "I know. I've already seen some of it in the memories. This is where he fought Kang Jin Star."

Bajie's face darkened. "Ah, so you remember. Yeah, Kang Jin's no pushover. She's powerful, tied to this mountain's very core. But that's not the only problem. We're here for something far worse."

Naruto glanced at Bajie. "Yellowbrow."

Bajie grunted, rubbing his arms to fend off the cold. "That bastard's the real danger. He's been lurking around these mountains, and I wouldn't be surprised if he still has the Sacred Gourd. He's always been slippery, and now that you're back, he's going to come after you."

Naruto's expression hardened. Yellowbrow, the true enemy. He'd seen glimpses of him in Wukong's memories an ambitious and cunning celestial being who had clashed with Wukong in the past. And now, Yellowbrow was likely aware of Naruto's reincarnation, making him an even bigger threat.

"Let's get moving," Naruto said, starting up the mountain path. "The sooner we find the Gourd, the sooner I can deal with Yellowbrow."

Bajie followed, his usual light heartedness gone. "Just remember, kid, this isn't just about finding the Gourd. Yellowbrow's probably set traps, and Kang Jin Star… she's not going to let you pass without a fight."

As they climbed further, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. The wind howled around them, carrying with it an eerie silence that only heightened the tension. The snow beneath their feet crunched loudly in the otherwise quiet mountain, and the mist that hung over the peaks seemed to conceal something more sinister.

Suddenly, Wukong's voice echoed in Naruto's mind. "She's here, Naruto. Kang Jin Star."

Naruto's grip on his staff tightened. He had seen her in his memories Kang Jin Star, the White Dragon who once fought alongside Wukong but later became an enemy. The memory was vivid: a mountain consumed by flames, Kang Jin soaring above it, her serpentine body coiling in the sky, filled with fury.

As if summoned by his thoughts, the snow around them shifted, and a powerful gust of wind swept through the pass. In the distance, Naruto could make out the outline of something massive moving through the mist long, serpentine, and glowing with an ethereal light.

"Get ready," Bajie muttered, stepping forward. "She's not one for polite conversation."

Before Naruto could respond, the fog parted, revealing Kang Jin Star in all her glory. Her body, covered in shimmering white scales, coiled through the air above them like a massive serpent. Her eyes, glowing with ancient power, locked onto Naruto with an intensity that sent chills down his spine—though whether from the cold or her presence, he couldn't tell.

"So, you've returned," Kang Jin Star said, her voice echoing across the mountains like a roar of thunder. "Sun Wukong… or rather, his shadow. I can sense his power within you, but you are not him."

Naruto stepped forward, the Ruyi Jingu Bang in his hand humming with energy. "I'm not Wukong. I'm Naruto Uzumaki, and I'm not here to fight you."

Kang Jin's eyes narrowed. "You seek the Sacred Gourd, do you not? The artifact that holds the key to your past?"

Naruto nodded. "That's right. I need it to unlock Wukong's memories and power."

Kang Jin let out a low growl, her serpentine form twisting through the air. "The Gourd is not so easily claimed. It was lost to these mountains long ago. But before you seek it, you must prove yourself worthy. Show me that you are not just a shadow of Wukong but his true successor."

Naruto tightened his grip on his staff, knowing what was coming. He had no intention of fighting her, but if that's what it took to prove himself, he wouldn't back down. This wasn't just about the Gourd it was about proving to Kang Jin, and to himself, that he could handle the responsibilities that came with being the reincarnation of Sun Wukong.

"Fine," Naruto said, his voice steady. "If that's what it takes, then let's do this."

Kang Jin's eyes glowed with approval as she descended from the sky, her long body coiling around the mountain like a snake preparing to strike. "Very well. Prepare yourself, boy. Show me the strength of the Monkey King."

Without warning, Kang Jin lunged forward with blinding speed, her body moving like lightning through the air. Naruto barely had time to react as he swung the Ruyi Jingu Bang upward, blocking her first strike. The force of the impact sent shockwaves through the snow, scattering ice and debris in every direction.

Naruto gritted his teeth as he pushed back against Kang Jin's overwhelming strength. Her power was immense far greater than anything he had faced before. But he wasn't about to give up. Channelling Wukong's energy through his staff, Naruto extended the Ruyi Jingu Bang, striking out toward Kang Jin's serpentine form.

The staff grew rapidly, glowing with golden energy as it slammed into Kang Jin's body, but she twisted out of the way with incredible agility. The White Dragon retaliated with a blast of icy wind, freezing the ground beneath Naruto's feet and sending shards of ice flying toward him.

Naruto leaped into the air, dodging the attack and landing on a nearby ledge. The cold bit at his skin, but he focused, channelling more of Wukong's power. Inside his mind, Wukong's voice echoed.

"She's testing you, Naruto. Don't hold back. Use the power you've gained. The Ruyi Jingu Bang is your weapon, use it!"

Naruto nodded, his eyes glowing with determination as he spun the staff in his hands. With a burst of energy, he summoned multiple clones using his hair the technique Wukong had taught him and sent them charging at Kang Jin from different directions.

The clones attacked in unison, but Kang Jin's agility was unmatched. She slithered through the air, dodging their strikes and swiping them away with ease. Her tail whipped through the snow, sending several clones flying as she turned her gaze back to the real Naruto.

"You fight well," she said, her voice cold as ice. "But is it enough to carry the mantle of the Monkey King?"

Naruto smirked, his confidence growing. "I'm not just fighting for Wukong's legacy. I'm fighting for my own."

With a shout, Naruto extended the Ruyi Jingu Bang once more, the staff growing larger and larger as it shot toward Kang Jin. She darted to the side, but Naruto was ready. Using the momentum, he launched himself toward her, landing a strike against her side.

Kang Jin let out a roar of pain, but her eyes gleamed with approval.

Kang Jin, now more determined than ever, lowered her serpentine form and began to shift. Her scales shimmered with a radiant glow, and her massive body began to shrink and contort, taking on a new shape. Before Naruto's eyes, the White Dragon transformed into a human dragon hybrid her upper body that of a fierce woman with long, flowing white hair, and her lower body still wrapped in the coils of her powerful dragon form. Her eyes glowed with an otherworldly light, the mark of an ancient force ready to unleash her full power.

"Sun Wukong," she said, her voice deeper, more dangerous. "You passed the first test, but now you must face me at my full strength. Let's see if you truly carry the mantle of the Monkey King."

Naruto's heartbeat quickened. He had sensed this coming a second round, a real test of his abilities. This wasn't just about proving himself to Kang Jin, it was about embracing the power that Wukong had left within him. If he couldn't overcome this, he would never be ready to face Yellowbrow or the trials ahead.

Inside his mind, Wukong's voice rumbled with approval. "She's testing you again, but this time, she's serious. Don't hold back, Naruto. Show her what you've learned."

Naruto's grip on the Ruyi Jingu Bang tightened, his determination surging. "Alright," he muttered, his voice steady but filled with energy. "No holding back."

With a surge of power, Naruto transformed once more, his body enveloped in a golden glow. The Loop of Binding around his head reappeared, and his eyes shone brighter, a mix of deep blue and golden pupils. The ground beneath him crackled with raw energy, and the wind roared as he fully embraced the power of Sun Wukong.

Kang Jin, now in her hybrid form, smiled wickedly. "Good. Let's see if you can handle this."

Without warning, Kang Jin lunged at Naruto, her movements impossibly fast for someone her size. Her dragon tail whipped through the air, aiming to crush him beneath its weight. But Naruto was ready. With a single thought, he summoned his hair clones, and in an instant, several identical Narutos appeared around her.

The clones moved in unison, charging at Kang Jin from all angles. They attacked with the same ferocity and precision as the real Naruto, their staffs striking at her from all sides. Kang Jin gritted her teeth as she swatted them away, but for every clone she destroyed, another took its place.

Naruto leaped into the air, soaring above her as his clones continued to attack, their combined efforts overwhelming her defences. Kang Jin roared in frustration, using her dragon tail to whip the snow around her into a flurry of icy shards, hoping to disrupt the clones. She unleashed her powers, freezing the ground beneath them and sending blasts of icy wind to try and break free.

But Naruto wasn't about to let up. He had learned from their previous fight, and this time, he was going to finish it. As his clones pressed in, surrounding her, Naruto descended from above, his staff extended and glowing with a fierce golden light. The air around him crackled with power as he came down on Kang Jin like a meteor.

"Take this!" Naruto shouted, slamming the Ruyi Jingu Bang down on her with all his strength.

The impact was earth-shattering. The force of Naruto's strike created a massive crater in the snow-covered ground, sending shockwaves through the mountain. The snow exploded outward, and the ground shook as Kang Jin was slammed into the earth, her body buried beneath the force of the blow.

For a moment, the world went silent. The only sound was the wind, howling through the mountains as the snow began to settle.

Inside his mind, Wukong's voice echoed with approval. "Impressive, Naruto. You're really starting to get it. That was a proper strike. She's gonna feel that."

Naruto stood at the edge of the crater, panting as the golden glow around him began to fade. His eyes scanned the dust and snow for any sign of Kang Jin, unsure if the fight was truly over. After a tense moment, the snow shifted, and Kang Jin slowly rose from the crater, her human-dragon form battered but still standing.

She looked up at Naruto, her expression a mixture of pain and admiration. "You are indeed powerful, Sun Wukong... or rather, Naruto Uzumaki," she said, her voice strained but filled with respect.

Naruto remained cautious, but he could sense that the fight was over. "Kang Jin Star," he said, lowering his staff slightly. "I'm not your enemy. I'm not here to challenge you or anyone else. I just need to find the Sacred Gourd."

Kang Jin took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing as she considered his words. "You have the strength of Wukong, but your spirit is your own. Perhaps that is what makes you different. But tell me, Naruto Uzumaki, if you gain the Gourd and unlock the full power of Sun Wukong… will you challenge heaven once more? Will you reignite the war that Wukong once fought?"

Naruto shook his head, his eyes clear and resolute. "No. I'm not here to wage war on the heavens. I don't want to challenge anyone like that. I just want to protect the people I care about. I'm not your enemy."

Kang Jin studied him for a long moment before nodding slowly. "I see. You are not Wukong, but you are something more. Perhaps… you are worthy of the Gourd after all."

Naruto felt a wave of relief, though he remained focused. "Do you know where it is?"

Kang Jin's eyes softened slightly. "The Gourd... it is said that Yellowbrow has taken it. He always coveted Wukong's power, and it is likely he has hidden it away in his temple. But I cannot be certain."

Naruto clenched his fists, the name Yellowbrow sending a surge of anger through him. "So, he's the one I need to find."

Kang Jin nodded. "Yes. But be warned he is not to be underestimated. He will not give it up easily."

With that, Kang Jin's form began to fade, her body dissolving into mist as she prepared to leave. "I will watch your journey, Naruto Uzumaki. You have proven yourself strong. But the path ahead is filled with greater challenges than even I could present."

As her presence vanished into the wind, Naruto stood alone in the snow, his heart pounding from the battle and the weight of what lay ahead.

Bajie finally approached, patting Naruto on the back. "Well, that was one hell of a fight, kid. You really gave her a beating."

Naruto smiled slightly, though his thoughts were already focused on the next step. "Yeah, but now we've got a bigger problem. Yellowbrow."

Bajie nodded, his expression darkening. "Yeah. And he's not gonna go down easy."

Naruto stared at the snowy horizon, determination burning in his chest. "We'll find him. And when we do, hopefully we get the Gourd."

After parting ways with Kang Jin Star, Naruto and Zhu Bajie continued their trek through the snow-covered peaks of the mountain. Each step felt heavier now, as Naruto's mind buzzed with thoughts of the looming confrontation with Yellowbrow and the retrieval of the Sacred Gourd. They were getting closer, but the path ahead was far from clear.

"Keep your eyes open, kid," Bajie grunted as they climbed higher through the rugged terrain. "Yellowbrow isn't dumb. He'll have his cronies watching every inch of these mountains."

Naruto nodded, gripping the Ruyi Jingu Bang at his side. The cold wind lashed against his face, but he barely noticed. His focus was entirely on the task at hand. They had already come too far to be stopped by mere minions.

Sure enough, not long after they entered a narrow pass, the first signs of trouble appeared. Shadows darted between the snow-laden trees, their movements swift and silent. Naruto tensed, feeling Wukong's instincts stirring inside him.

"Yaoguais," Bajie muttered, his pig-like snout twitching in annoyance. "Small time demons, but they're pesky. They're probably scouting for Yellowbrow."

As if on cue, a group of Yaoguais emerged from the treeline, their bodies hunched and their eyes glowing with malice. These demonic creatures were small but numerous, their twisted forms slinking through the snow like predators ready to strike. They carried crude weapons clubs and jagged blades but their real threat came from their numbers.

One of the Yaoguais stepped forward, a sneer twisting its face. "What's this? The mighty Pigsy and the so called reincarnation of Sun Wukong? Yellowbrow will be pleased to hear we found you so easily."

Naruto rolled his eyes, unimpressed. "You guys again? Haven't you figured out that I'm not interested in small fry?"

The lead Yaoguai hissed, its teeth bared in a twisted grin. "Arrogant little monkey. We'll see how cocky you are after we tear you apart."

Naruto smirked, his eyes glowing faintly with Wukong's power. "Oh, I don't think so."

With a flick of his wrist, Naruto summoned the Ruyi Jingu Bang, extending the staff in an instant. The staff gleamed with golden energy, and before the Yaoguais could react, Naruto launched himself at them with lightning speed.

The battle was over before it even began. Naruto's clones summoned from his hair swarmed the Yaoguais, overwhelming them with sheer numbers and precision. His staff moved like a blur, striking down the demons with pinpoint accuracy. Each swing sent the creatures flying into the snow, their crude weapons shattering under the force of his attacks.

Within minutes, the entire group of Yaoguais lay defeated, groaning and twitching in the snow. Naruto didn't even break a sweat as he lowered his staff, looking back at Bajie.

"That was… underwhelming," Naruto said with a sigh.

Bajie chuckled, his snout twitching with amusement. "You're getting too good at this, kid. These Yaoguais are nothing but a warm-up compared to what's coming."

Naruto grinned, though he could feel the weight of the looming battle with Yellowbrow pressing on him. "Yeah, but they're just scouts. Yellowbrow will have stronger forces waiting for us."

As they moved on, the path ahead became steeper, and the cold more biting. But Naruto's resolve only grew stronger. He was ready for whatever Yellowbrow had in store.

the snow-covered path twisted higher into the mountains, Naruto and Bajie came across a clearing. It was serene, almost peaceful compared to the violent encounters they had just faced. In the center of the clearing sat a small stone Buddha statue, its gaze fixed on the horizon, as though contemplating something far beyond the physical world.

But there was something unusual about this statue it wasn't just any ordinary Buddha. This one seemed to emanate a faint, golden light, and there was a distinct presence about it, almost as if it was alive. Naruto could feel it a subtle, calming energy that stood in stark contrast to the harshness of the snowy mountains.

Bajie stopped in his tracks, his expression twisting into one of annoyance. "Oh, great… it's him."

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "Him? Who's that?"

Bajie crossed his arms, glaring at the Buddha statue. "That's no ordinary statue, kid. That's the boy Maitreya. The future Buddha, they say. And let me tell you, I'm not his biggest fan."

Naruto blinked, confused. "Wait, the Maitreya? The one who's supposed to succeed Buddha in the future?"

Bajie grunted, nodding. "That's the one. He's all about peace and enlightenment and all that stuff. But he's got a holier,than,thou attitude that really grinds my gears."

Before Naruto could respond, the statue suddenly shimmered, and the air around it rippled like heat waves. In a blink, the stone form shifted, and standing before them was a young bald headed chubby boy dressed in simple robes, his face calm and serene. His eyes, however, carried a knowing glint one that suggested he had seen much more than the surface of the world.

"Well, well," Maitreya said, his voice smooth and full of amusement. "Look who's made their way up the mountain. Pigsy and the New Monkey King. What an interesting pair."

Naruto blinked in surprise. "You know who we are?"

Maitreya's smile widened. "Of course. Word travels quickly in these parts, especially when it comes to the reincarnation of Sun Wukong. But I must say, you're making quite the impression."

Bajie grumbled under his breath. "I've had enough of your games, Maitreya. What are you doing here?"

Maitreya chuckled softly, stepping down from his perch. "Oh, just enjoying the view, Pigsy. It's not every day I get to see such a… colourful cast of characters."

Naruto crossed his arms, already sensing that Maitreya wasn't here just for idle chatter. "We're looking for Yellowbrow. Do you know where he is?"

Maitreya's expression remained serene, but his eyes sparkled with hidden knowledge. "Yellowbrow, you say? I've heard rumours. He's a slippery one, always moving between his temple and the hidden sanctuaries he's set up around these mountains. But who can say where he is at any given moment?"

Naruto frowned. Maitreya's answer was frustratingly vague, and it felt like the boy was playing them for fun. "So, you don't know?"

Maitreya shrugged, his smile never fading. "Oh, I might know… but then again, it's not my place to interfere. I'm just here to observe. After all, the mountain has many secrets. You never know who or what you might run into."

Bajie rolled his eyes. "Typical. Always dodging the question."

Maitreya's smile widened further, as if he were enjoying the game. "It wouldn't be any fun if I just told you, would it?"

Naruto sighed, clearly annoyed. "Alright, fine. We'll find Yellowbrow ourselves."

As they turned to leave, Maitreya's voice drifted after them, his tone still playful but carrying a hint of something darker. "Oh, by the way… I've been hearing some interesting stories lately. Rumours of another Monkey King running around. I wonder… could there be a pretender among us?"

Naruto froze, turning back to face Maitreya. "Another Monkey King? What are you talking about?"

Maitreya's smile widened. "Oh, just a story. Word travels fast in these parts, and it seems someone's been going around claiming to be the great Sun Wukong. I thought you might find that interesting."

For a moment, Naruto's mind raced. Another Monkey King? How was that even possible? But before he could ask more, a sudden surge of rage flared inside his mind, cutting through his thoughts like a knife.

"A fake Monkey King?" Wukong's voice thundered in Naruto's head, his usual calm replaced with barely controlled fury. "That's a joke. A bad one. No one takes my name and title for themselves. No one!"

Naruto felt Wukong's pride and anger flooding through him, the weight of the legendary Monkey King's reputation burning in his chest. "Wukong…" Naruto began, but the deity's voice cut him off.

"You listen to me, kid," Wukong growled, his tone laced with venom. "I earned my title. I defied heaven, battled gods, and tore down the Celestial Court. I am the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, and no imposter will tarnish my name. If there's someone out there pretending to be me, I want you to find them. And when you do, you remind them who the real Sun Wukong is."

Naruto's heart pounded as Wukong's words echoed in his mind. The intensity of Wukong's anger was palpable this wasn't just about pride. It was about honour. The idea of someone else taking the name of Sun Wukong was an insult to everything the Monkey King stood for.

"Got it," Naruto thought, feeling Wukong's approval simmering beneath the surface. "I'll deal with it."

Maitreya, still watching with that infuriating smile, seemed to sense the internal conflict. "Oh, it seems I've struck a nerve. Don't worry, Naruto Uzumaki. I'm sure you'll find the answers you seek soon enough."

Bajie, clearly fed up with the conversation, waved a hand dismissively. "We don't have time for your cryptic nonsense, Maitreya. Come on, Naruto, let's get going."

As they turned to leave, Maitreya's parting words echoed through the air, his tone still playful but carrying an ominous edge. "Good luck with Yellowbrow. And with the other 'Monkey King.' You'll need it."

Naruto and Bajie moved further up the mountain, the cold winds howling around them, Naruto could feel Wukong's lingering anger boiling inside him. The thought of someone else claiming the title of the Monkey King was a deep wound to Wukong's pride.

"You're really mad about this, huh?" Naruto thought, trying to calm the deity down.

"Damn right I'm mad," Wukong snapped. "My name isn't just a title. It's who I am. I didn't fight the heavens and crush my enemies just for some coward to start playing dress-up and pretend they're me. If someone's pretending to be the Monkey King, they're challenging everything I stand for. And I won't let that slide."

Naruto sighed, the weight of Wukong's rage pressing down on him. He understood Sun Wukong had built his reputation through battles, defiance, and sheer willpower. The title of Monkey King wasn't something that could be passed around lightly.

"Alright," Naruto thought, his resolve hardening. "We'll deal with Yellowbrow first, but after that, we'll figure out who this imposter is."

Bajie, walking beside him, glanced over. "You alright, kid? You've been quiet since we left Maitreya."

Naruto nodded, still deep in thought. "Yeah, just… processing. Wukong's not too happy about what Maitreya said."

Bajie chuckled. "I can imagine. Wukong's got more pride than most gods. Someone running around pretending to be him? That's not something he's gonna take lightly."

As they approached the temple, the storm seemed to grow fiercer, as if the mountain itself was warning them of the danger ahead. The looming presence of Yellowbrow weighed heavily on Naruto's mind, but now there was another threat in the back of his thoughts a pretender, someone bold enough to take Wukong's name.

"I'm ready," Naruto muttered, gripping his staff tightly. "Let's deal with Yellowbrow first. Then we'll deal with the fake Monkey King."

Bajie grinned, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Now you're talking, kid. Let's finish this."

Chapter 8 - Pretender End

A/N

That's the end of this chapter! I just wanted to mention that I might go back and rewrite parts of the last chapter, focusing more on the Riser scene, depending on how this chapter is received.

Unfortunately, I have to say that there won't be daily updates for a while, as I have university to attend. I'll be spreading out updates for now, and I'm really sorry about that :(

I changed a bit of Kang Jin Stars Form.

Also, I know some people aren't fond of my portrayal of Naruto. Yes, he's OOC, but I like to start him off slow so his growth feels more natural. Hopefully, this chapter addressed some of the concerns about his lack of action and showed that he's starting to accept his responsibility of carrying the Sun Wukong title.

Until next time,

byebye!