Another Word For Monster

by Kuma Akuma

Konoha's Boogeyman. Jinchuriki. Hero. Traitor. Murderer. These were the names of Naruto Uzumaki. He left Konoha 3 years ago a broken man, looking for a peaceful life. But the shinobi life doesn't let peace come so easily. It calls you back. Through violence. Through war. Through blood. Monsters didn't get peace. And shinobi? That was just another word for monster. Light AU.

20. Chapter 20

Naruto stretched on the field, looking up at the stands. Above them, in the watch room, everyone stood, eagerly looking down on the battle to come below. Even little Ashino was there. Fuka had suspected seeing the strength of his father and surrogate uncle on full display would be good for the young child after such a harrowing experience. He needed reassurance he was safe. Seeing these two spar hopefully should do that. The duo had decided to spar after their conversation last night. If they were going to train together and grow stronger together, if they were going to fight off darkness together, they needed to know exactly how strong they were.

"Does anyone want to take bets," Kamino questioned, a smile on his face. It would be good to get positive energy flowing.

"All of it on Nagato," Fuka and Karin stated instantly. Kamino looked at them strangely, as if he wasn't expecting that response.

"He's your family. Don't you have more faith in him," he questioned.

Both Uzumaki women shook their head. Kamino snorted at their disbelief. He glanced at Konan and Yahiko only to have them both look at him with deadpan expressions.

"What?"

"Nagato. We're all betting on Nagato."

Kamino glanced at Kisame, watching as the shark man nodded.

"Yeah, Nagato's got this, although I have an addendum."

"Oh, what's that?"

"Naruto's gonna land a blow on him," Kisame stated plainly. "In fact. I'd wager he actually pushes Nagato."

"Naruto," Fuka questioned. "I know he's strong, but push Nagato? I haven't seen Nagato fight seriously in years. No one is on his level."

"I'm not saying he's on his level. But he'll push him further than I did."

"Oh, you think he's stronger than you," Yahiko questioned.

"Not entirely sure," Kisame muttered. "But he's a better matchup against Nagato than I am. You'll see."

"I'm inclined to agree," Konan stated. That got the attention of the group.

"You too honey," Yahiko questioned, a shocked look on his face. "How could you?"

"Naruto is powerful. That is the entire reason you wanted him to train our shinobi," Konan stated plainly. "I think he lands a blow."

"Put me down for not landing anything at all," Fuka and Yahiko stated at the same time.

"Even Kisame didn't land a blow. There's no way Naruto does," Yahiko added.

Kamino nodded, turning to look at Karin.

"Is there anything you'd like to wager specifically?"

Karin frowned, looking at both men. Analyzing their chakra. She smiled.

"Naruto will land multiple blows," she stated.

"A bold one," Kamino said, smiling. "I trust you, my wife. Let us see."

Naruto rolled his eyes at their voices. They were annoying, betting on the outcome of the match. They were still going at it. Still, Naruto couldn't entirely disagree with the high praise of his opponent. Which led Naruto to look back at the man who stood before him, similarly stretching.

Nagato.

He would be lying if he said he wasn't interested in fighting him. Ever since Nagato had effortlessly dismantled his wind armor he wanted to get his revenge. His pride had been hurt from being defeated so quickly. That interest had only grown after Nagato had defeated the Konoha shinobi. He had defeated a squad of Jonin, without a blow even landing. That was something noteworthy, especially considering Sakura had failed to land a blow on him. That was something. He suspected it had something to do with that wave of force he could control. Gravity. What a ridiculously overpowered ability. He would have to figure out a way around that before he could even touch him. Silently Naruto ran through all of Nagato's abilities that he knew of. Manipulation of gravity. The ability to control Suiton (Water Release) at a level that no shinobi on the continent could match, without the use of hand signs no less. While he had never seen it he also knew he could grow extra arms, absorb ninjutsu, and create extra arms or weapons that protruded from his body.

Yeah.

He was definitely adding to his fuck Kekkei Genkai book.

That was a wide variety of skills, ones that made Nagato a pain to fight for any shinobi much less someone like him. The ability to absorb ninjutsu effectively made him similar to Samehada, and if he could force them into a ninjutsu battle with his gravity he was looking at an uphill climb. With that much versatility it was doubtful that Nagato was truly a master of anything, but it didn't matter. That much versatility could trump expertise. Naruto smiled. This would be fun. Kisame was a challenge, physically superior to him in every way, a likely match if not a slight step down in ninjutsu, a skilled weapons user like himself, and to top it all of Samehada had the ability to absorb chakra. The swordsman was a horrible matchup for him, but Naruto didn't consider Kisame his superior. No, a frustrating fight, one that he would rather run from than engage in, yes. One that would likely push him to his limits to win? Absolutely.

Nagato?

No, Naruto was sure he was staring down his superior.

And that excited him.

Not being the strongest in the room was a sensation he hadn't felt since he had killed Onoki. He wasn't used to being able to cut loose and realizing that even if he did that he still might not win. No, he could go all out, kill shots obviously not included, and someone could take it and more. His blood began to race. This was something he hadn't felt. This was what he was missing. Sure, it was a spar, but there was a thrill to it. An excitement. He couldn't quite place it, it had been too long since he had felt it, but this felt similar to what fighting Kakuzu had felt like only deeper. More powerful. Trickster appeared in his hand as he finished stretching, staring at Nagato with his blood pumping.

Yes. This was it. He could see where he ranked in the pecking order. Of course, that didn't mean he could act like an idiot. Nagato was no fool and he was certainly powerful. He would have to handle this carefully.

"Are you ready Naruto," Nagato stated, finishing his stretching.

Naruto nodded, his eyes never leaving the redhaired man's frame.

"Yeah. Let's do this."

"Remember, the match is over when we force the other person to admit defeat. No sooner."

Naruto smirked. "Right."

A voice called out from the watch room. It was Karin's.

"Well, if that's clear then both of you...begin!"

Naruto grinned.

He could finally cut loose.

His wind armor exploded to life, his scythe raging. Wind howled in the enclosed environment, Naruto instantly becoming a tornado of wind. Nagato's eyes narrowed as he saw the blonde.

"I've already beat this jutsu once Naruto. Surely you don't think I can't beat it again."

"Guess we'll have to find out!"

Naruto shot forwards, carving a trench through the ground as he shot towards his fellow Uzumaki. Nagato didn't bother raising a hand, his eyes glowing with power once again. Naruto wanted to try the same strategy and expect a different result? He would show him what insanity looked like. A wave of force shot outwards, carving through the ground before him and sending Naruto flying away. The blonde flipped through the air, before landing on the wall, his eyes snapping at Nagato. He grinned. He shot forwards once more, this time not covered in his armor. Nagato grunted, dodging Naruto's swipe with Trickster only for his eyes to widen as he saw the weapon snap upwards. Desperately his hands snapped upwards, catching Trickster in his hands. Naruto smirked, his leg swinging upwards to smash into Nagato's chest. Or it would have, had a third arm not shot from his side and caught Naruto's leg. Naruto's eyes narrowed.

"So that's made of chakra or something?"

"Something like that."

Naruto grunted, his wind armor activating around his leg to slash at Nagato only for it to suddenly be completely absorbed by the redhaired man. Naruto's eyes twitched, yanking his foot back and pulling away. He analyzed his opponent, twirling his staff in his hands. Nagato watched him as well, interested in what the blonde would choose to do. That way of fighting wouldn't work against him. Naruto shot forwards once more, causing Nagato's eyes to narrow. Naruto lashed out with his staff, Nagato ducking underneath it. Naruto grunted, lashing up with his knee only for Nagato's third arm to force it downwards, completely overpowering the blonde. Naruto's eyes narrowed, shifting into a punch that Nagato caught with his free hand. This didn't bother the blonde, palming Trickster forwards only for it to be caught by Nagato as well. His third arm shot upwards, threatening to uppercut Naruto only for a clone to appear wordlessly at the blonde's side and catch the punch, grunting as it was forced to use two hands for the job. The original Naruto pulled his hands free, instead lashing out with a punch at Nagato's side. The man blocked the punch with his elbow, only for Naruto to grunt. Trickster flew through his free hand, swinging at Nagato's head. The man was raised his arm to catch the blow only for Naruto to suddenly swing the weapon, using both hands this time to change directions and swing it at his knee. Nagato's eyes widened, and with a subtle application of force sent both him and his clone skidding backwards. The clone flipped, landing roughly on the ground, and disappearing in a puff of smoke.

Naruto grinned.

"Why are you smiling?"

"I'm getting a rhythm for things," Naruto stated plainly. "Those arms of yours. The ones you can create. They're stronger than your normal arms. Enhanced. They have some serious strength to them. Nothing like Sakura's or Baa-chan's, but I can't just take a blow from them. And" Naruto looked up, grinning.

"I'm pretty sure I'm physically stronger than you."

"The gap isn't large."

"Doesn't need to be," Naruto stated confidently. "You're not like Kisame. I can beat you in taijutsu."

Nagato's eyes twitched, slightly irritated on the blonde's brazen analysis of his skills. Did he really think he was that easy to beat in a taijutsu contest? He hadn't even solidly won that brief confrontation. Naruto seemed eager to prove it, shooting forwards once more. Nagato grunted, dropping into a defensive stance. Naruto reached him, Trickster whipping around at impossible angles in a desperate attempt to defeat him. Nagato's three hands flew at similar speeds, managing to deflect all of the strikes. The two seemed to reach a sort of equilibrium. The crack of the staff meeting flesh resounded loudly in the arena. Nagato began to feel his hands dull, even as they were reinforced with chakra. Naruto smirked, looking at Nagato.

"Ready to take it up a notch?"

Nagato's eyes widened as Naruto suddenly moved faster. The staff was almost impossible to keep up with. Nagato's blocks weren't clean anymore, they were desperate. The man was shifting his entire body, eyes wildly looking around to try and block all of the strikes. Naruto lashed out at Nagato's side, the man's third arm blocking it with its forearm, only for Naruto to spin around him with his foot leaking outwards. He snapped it around Nagato's legs, attempting to trip the man only for him to flip above the attempt. Naruto didn't hesitate, his staff lunging forwards in a series of thrusts that Nagato just barely managed to turn his head to dodge. The man landed, only for Naruto's fist to fly towards his face. Nagato checked it with his shoulder, but the force made his body turn slightly. That slight turn was all Naruto needed. The blonde grunted, swiping at Nagato's feet, forcing the man to jump. Naruto's foot lashed upwards, ready to plant itself solidly on the man's chest only for a wave of force to smash into Naruto's chest. The blonde flew backwards, rolling on the ground to disperse the force. He rolled to his feet, smirking at Nagato who was panting from the sudden increase in intensity.

"Told ya," Naruto muttered.

"And like I said it doesn't matter. You can't land a blow on me."

Naruto smirked.

"Maybe not from the front."

Two clones of Naruto shot upwards from behind Nagato, kunai in hand as they prepared to stab in him his shoulders to restrict his mobility of his original arms. Naruto smirked.

"I just need to get you from behind!"

Naruto charged; Trickster coated in wind to form a lance to spear Nagato through. Nagato turned his head, his eyes widening as he saw the clones ready to stab him. A pincer attack. Still, he was ready. His eyes glowed with power. Suddenly a wave of force shot outwards, sending both the clones and Naruto flying away. A cloud of dust rose in the air, smoke soon joining it as the clones dispelled. Naruto managed to land on his feet, but the constant blasts of force were beginning to annoy him.

"Almost correct," Nagato stated. "But I'm afraid the jutsu is omnidirectional if I so choose."

Naruto frowned.

"Those eyes are cheating."

"Add it to your book."

Naruto smirked, weaving through handseals. A clone appeared next to him.

"Gladly. Suiton: Bakusui Shōha (Water Release: Exploding Water Colliding Wave)!"

The clone leapt into the air as Naruto spat out the deluge of water, watching as Nagato casually leapt above the attack. Naruto's eyes narrowed. Why hadn't he repelled the water? Still, that was fine with him. It was better than if he had absorbed the attack in the first place. Naruto didn't stop there though. His hands continued to weave, watching as the water began to pool on the battlefield. Soon they would be fighting on a field of water.

"Fūton: Renkūdan (Wind Release: Drilling Air Bullet)!"

Naruto unleashed the explosive pressure of air, only for Nagato to raise his hands and absorb the attack before any of its danger could show. Naruto's eyes narrowed. Now he was absorbing the attack. With an explosive attack like Renkūdan that was better than repelling it he supposed. Still, did Nagato know that? He would have to use more predictable attacks to get a better measure.

The blonde grabbed Trickster, leaping onto the water as it submerged the bottom of the field. Wind surged around the weapon as he began to spin it.

"Fūton: Ōkakeami (Wind Release: Great Cast Net)."

The layers on layers of sharp wind shot towards Nagato, threatening to cut him in pieces. The redhaired man's eyes narrowed, raising his hands to absorb the attack once more. That was when Naruto's clone made himself known. Just as the familiar glow around Nagato appeared to absorb the jutsu he threw a kunai at the man. Nagato's eyes snapped up to the weapon, frustration forming on his face. His third arm snapped up, catching the weapon as he began to absorb Naruto's jutsu. The blonde's eyes frowned. The original leapt up onto the walls on the opposite side of the arena as his clone. Nagato looked at him.

"This is an effort in futility cousin. Surely there's more to you than these cheap tricks."

Naruto grunted, throwing a kunai, as did his clone. Both of them weaved through handseals at the same time, their eyes eagerly watching Nagato.

"Shuriken Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique)!"

Both kunai multiplied into dozens, threatening to skewer Nagato through. The man almost rolled his eyes at the A-rank jutsu, sending the kunai flying away in a pulse of gravity. That was when Naruto and his clone grinned. They had already pulled another set of kunai, throwing them and unleashing the jutsu once more. Nagato's eyes narrowed, before a wave of water beneath him shot upwards on either side, enveloping the storm of weaponry and stopping them cold. Naruto smirked. Nagato's eyes narrowed.

"Why didn't you reflect them Nagato," Naruto questioned.

The man was silent.

"That jutsu of yours is so powerful. The ability to manipulate gravity. To push things away from you. With an attack like that you shouldn't ever get touched. So why could I engage you in taijutsu? Why not repel that wave of kunai again? Why not repel the water or the wind? It's simple. You can't. The only thing to find out now is why? Care to share?"

Nagato's eyes narrowed, irritated at his jutsu being figured out so easily. Even the Konoha kunoichi had not figured at that secret. It was rare when someone fighting him did. The only people that were still alive to know about the secrets of the jutsu were his allies. Naruto was more perceptive than he let on. That was why he had tried all those jutsu that the blonde knew had no chance of working. They were to test his abilities.

"You miscalculated," Nagato stated. "You may understand my jutsu has limitations, but you have provided me with plenty of water."

The water around Nagato swirled, before two massive tendrils shot up towards Naruto and his clone, respectively. Both donned their wind armor, the water completely unable to pierce through it and merely scattering upon contact. Naruto smirked.

"Please. You think I'm worried about some water?"

Nagato frowned. It seemed he was the one who had miscalculated. His manipulation of Suiton (Water Release) would be useless as long as that armor was active on the blonde. He didn't possess the sheer power to overwhelm it and he couldn't rip it off from a distance. Troublesome. But manageable. Still, this was somewhat impressive. The last person to challenge him like this had been Kisame. Of course, he had proceeded to then completely eviscerate the man for the rest of their fight.

How would Naruto fare?

Nagato weaved through handseals, causing Naruto's eyes to widen. He had never seen the man utilize handseals. What was he going to unleash? Nagato smirked.

"Katon: Endan (Fire Release: Flame Bullet)!"

Naruto's eyes widened as he saw the flaming bullet shoot towards him. That was not a C-rank jutsu like the jutsu was classified as. The heat it was emanating and the size of it made it at least an A-rank technique, if not S. Nagato could do this with a chakra nature that he didn't even utilize often? It seemed he was far more than just his Kekkei Genkai after all. Still, it didn't matter. Naruto smirked, shooting through the orb of flame, his winds completely protecting him from the assault. He appeared next to Nagato in a burst of speed, his scythe swinging out to slash at his fellow Uzumaki. Nagato grunted, lashing out with a punch, seemingly unperturbed by the attack. The familiar glow highlighted his body, absorbing the attack as his third arm reached up and caught Trickster. Meanwhile, his punch shot forwards, forcing Naruto to block with his forearm. The blonde grunted as he was sent skidding backwards. Naruto's head snapped downwards as the water beneath his feet suddenly moved. He fell for a brief moment until he began to fly, not expecting the technique. The opportunity was not wasted by Nagato. The man was instantly in front of Naruto, a black rod in his hand. Nagato thrust the weapon forwards, only for Naruto's clone to appear, deflecting the attack with his scythe.

The original smirked, flipping over his clone and slashing downwards with Trickster once more. Nagato grunted, unleashing a wave of gravity that sent both of them flying away. Naruto and his clone grinned, pushing the attack even harder. This was their opportunity! For a time being Nagato couldn't use that ability! Nagato didn't seem particularly concerned by the lack of his gravity manipulation. His hands moved, forming handseals once more as his eyes shifted between the clone and the original.

"Fūton: Shinkū Taigyoku (Wind Release: Vacuum Great Sphere)!"

The crushing sphere of wind expanded in front of Nagato, forming a fast-moving wall of wind both the blonde and his clone would have to cut through to reach the redhead. Neither were worried. Wind was their specialty. Nagato was not going to surpass him at that. The two cut through the wind wall with ease, their scythes swinging at Nagato from opposite directions. Once more the glow around Nagato activated, beginning to absorb their ninjutsu as he reached out and caught their scythes. Naruto grunted, a clone appearing above the redheaded man. The clone roared, a spiraling orb of chakra in its hands.

"Rasengan!"

Nagato raised an eye at the strange decision. Another ninjutsu attack while his barrier was active? It was pointless. He absorbed the spiraling ball as well. Naruto grunted, irritation flashing on his face. So, he didn't need to move his hands for the technique to work either. Nagato smirked, a wave of force pushing him back once more. This one was stronger than the last, sending all three Naruto's smashing into a wall. Two of him exploded in a puff of smoke, leaving only the original to pull himself from the hole in the wall. With a grunt Naruto reactivated his armor, glaring at his opponent. The blonde grunted once more, charging forwards. Just as he reached Nagato he deactivated his armor, whipping the weapon around in a desperate attempt to land a solid blow on the Uzumaki. Nagato was forced to defend himself utilizing taijutsu, and Naruto suddenly had the advantage. He began to slowly push his fellow Uzumaki backwards. It wasn't easy. Nagato was no slouch in taijutsu, but it was working. Naruto swung Trickster, the staff aiming for Nagato's collarbone. The man grunted, grabbing the weapon with his hand only for Naruto to instantly let go of it. Naruto shot in close, his punch cratering towards Nagato's stomach. The man's third arm shot upwards, blocking the attack. Naruto grunted, a clone appearing behind Nagato and sliding in close. Its fist shot forwards, wind chakra coating its body briefly for the added speed. Nagato's eyes widened, but it was too late. Naruto's punch cratered into his side, causing Nagato to cough in pain before he flew to the side. The man grunted, grabbing at his side as he flew. He flipped, landing on his feet on the water beneath him, his eyes narrowing as he saw Naruto looking at him, a smile on his face.

A collective gasp could be heard in the viewing area, each of them watching with keen eyes. Yahiko and Fuka looked like they couldn't believe the result, meanwhile Kisame and Karin looked pleased with themselves. Kisame snorted.

"Told ya."

Back on the battlefield Naruto grinned.

"I hit you."

Nagato rubbed his side before he lowered his arm.

"So, you did..."

The Uzumaki's eyes suddenly glowed with power and a crushing weight settled on the battlefield. Naruto felt the air temporarily leave his lungs before he gathered it in once more. What was this pressure? Was this...Nagato? The Uzumaki man's shirt exploded off of his body, revealing a lithe body. Protrusion after protrusion rippled from his back, turning him into some strange anomaly. Naruto's eyes widened at the sight. What was that? Nagato was silent, simply allowing the transformation to take place. Naruto looked in horror.

"Are you sure you're not a puppet?"

Chakra orbs suddenly began to glow around the protrusions, causing Naruto to realize what they were. They were cannons. Nagato had created chakra cannons. The orbs slowly began to grow, a hum in the air as they charged. Nagato smirked.

"Let us see what else you're capable of cousin."

The orbs fired, searing beams of chakra that shot towards Naruto and his clone. The original shot upwards, barely avoiding the initial stream of chakra. His clone was not so lucky, the blasts of energy spearing straight through it, armor or no. The explosions from the contact were massive, deafening booms echoing across the battlefield. The force flung Naruto in the air wildly. The blonde desperately tried to regain control of his flight, channeling more chakra into his armor. He needed to create a layer of air to stabilize himself if Nagato was going to be throwing that around. Still, there was no way he would be able to keep throwing around attacks like that with no recharge, right? That had to cost a lot of chakra.

His question was quickly answered as several more beams of chakra shot towards him just as he got control of himself, forcing him to fly away from the attack. The beams hit the wall behind him, the massive explosions shaking the arena once more. It took everything Naruto had to keep control over his flight pattern, developing his protective layer of air on the fly. He grit his teeth as more of the beams chased after him, detonating as they missed their targets. Nagato's eyes tracked him all the while. It seemed he truly could keep this barrage up indefinitely. Naruto grunted, deciding to take matters into his own hands. He shot inwards, his body contorting as he began to barely dodge the attacks. The heat that radiated off them burned his skin, but he pushed forwards, desperate to get closer to Nagato. He had to force him to stop these attacks. Still, the window to dodge got smaller and smaller as he neared, and he knew he couldn't block one of these attacks. Still, he was managing. He could figure it out. There was a three second charge time to the attacks. If he could predict where it would go, he could dodge the beams.

Unfortunately, Nagato seemed to pick up on the fact that Naruto figured out the charge time to the attack. He raised his third arm, revealing several missiles on it. Naruto's eyes widened as they shot towards him. He was too close to dodge! They impacted, the explosions sending him flying backwards but otherwise not harming him. The blonde flipped through the air, slowly coming to a stop as he gained control of himself. Naruto grit his teeth. So Nagato would send him flying back if he got too close to him huh? He needed a way to break this assault. He didn't have much time to think as the beams fired once more, this time firing at a faster pace, although the attacks were weaker. Naruto's eyes narrowed as he weaved through the assault. So, the time to charge was relative to how much strength was put in the blasts. These were weaker, in fact the attacks probably couldn't significantly damage him, but the charge time was faster. It was less than a second now. It was like he was fighting a minigun, rare technology that it was. He could barely keep up with the pace. Eventually one struck him on his leg, failing to pierce his armor but disrupting his wind. He tumbled, allowing more of the beams to smash into him. They pushed him against the wall, the barrage continuing to bury him inside it. Naruto grunted, bringing his scythe in front of him and beginning to spin the weapon. He roared, the blasts smashing against the wall of wind he began to form in front of him. Nagato's eyes narrowed. Suddenly all one of the cannons stopped firing, instead beginning to charge. The others maintained their assault, causing Naruto's eyes to widen. He could control them individually as well. And judging by the size of the chakra orb that was growing on the central cannon he did not want to be hit by what Nagato was charging.

With a roar Nagato unleashed his jutsu, the massive beam rocketing towards Naruto. The blonde's eyes narrowed. He couldn't be hit with that. He would definitely lose. He spun his scythe, desperate to form any barrier to protect himself.

"Fūton: Yae Hayate (Wind Release: Multi-Layered Gale)."

Still, Naruto could tell that wouldn't be enough, beginning to fly through handseals. The beam cratered through the vacuum of wind, seemingly unaffected by the defensive technique. He needed more.

"Suiton: Suijinheki (Water Release: Water Formation Wall)!"

Naruto spewed a mass of water from his mouth, the water showering down on the beam to try and stop it. The wall of water desperately clashed against the beam, but it wasn't enough. Steam filled the air as the blazing hot beam superheated the water before it crashed into the wall. A devastating explosion rang out, shaking the entire tower. Smoke and steam clouded the area, causing everyone to watch on with worry. Not a sound could be heard except the crashing of rubble into the water. Nagato frowned, his eyes scouring the battlefield. His eyes briefly glowed with power, unleashing a wave of gravity that sent the smoke and steam flying upwards. It continued upwards, smashing into the ceiling with impressive force. A hissing sound could be heard before it settled, too high above the battlefield to impede vision.

In a pool of water Naruto kneeled, his shirt completely torn off. Half of his body was badly burned, and he was bleeding profusely. The blonde's body was shaking and for a brief moment it looked like he might keel over, defeated. Nagato looked ready to relax. However, suddenly his body stilled as if by a tremendous amount of willpower. His eyes were locked on Nagato, determination filling them. Nagato's eyes widened, before a smirk formed on his face.

"Ah," he said. "And here I was hoping for more from you. I suppose the stories of the legendary Naruto Uzumaki are overblown. The man I've heard of would never lose to simply one attack, especially not one of that magnitude. I was told the story of one of Konoha's most powerful shinobi. Where is that man?"

Naruto snarled, the determination in his eyes blazing. The blonde was furious. He was being defeated. Thoroughly. He had barely managed to land one blow. Nagato had controlled the entire pace of the fight. His wind armor was only useful for defense and to get in close. If he did get in close it was only in select intervals between Nagato's gravity control, and he couldn't use ninjutsu either. His repertoire was entirely too limited against him. He stood no chance.

'Is this really all that I taught you?'

Naruto frowned at the voice in his head. Where was it coming from?

'I didn't teach you to rely on one singular fighting style. And I surely didn't teach you to simply cow to your opponent's abilities.'

'You've fought me many times and yet you don't know how to counter versatility or someone who can counter your abilities? Maybe I did fail as a teacher.'

Naruto's eyes widened as he recognized the voices in his head. Hiruzen and Jiraiya. Words they had spoken to him all too often. Lessons they had beat into him. Every time he slipped into a habit, they promptly beat him out of it. Shinobi could never be predictable. Never be one-dimensional. They had to be varied. That was the key to being a shinobi in combat. They could never acquiesce to the opponents' abilities. Every jutsu had a weakness. Find it out and exploit it. And yet here he was, doing the exact opposite. Relying on his armor because it had allowed him to kill Onoki. Because few had ever managed to pierce it. Relying on his ninjutsu because he could name the shinobi on the continent that could match him in the department on one hand. Not utilizing his skills because he was afraid they would be countered.

When had he gotten so complacent?

Naruto stood, determination burning in his eyes. It was a shaky rise, but it was a rise. Fire fueled his being. This wasn't who he was. He was better than this. He had grown complacent over his retreat from the world. Fighting so one-dimensionally because it worked. Because he was still at the level of the elites when he came back. The world hadn't caught up. But why did that mean he should stop pushing? That wasn't who he was.

Never stand still.

Those were the words he had been taught. Those were the words he had strived to live by.

And yet here he was in the face of a superior. Standing still. Not progressing.

No more.

From here on out, it didn't matter what the opponent's ability was, even if they could counter his trump card. He wasn't reliant on wind armor. He was Naruto Uzumaki. Trained by the Professor and the Toad Sage. He didn't need to rely on one trick to battle.

He was the trick.

Nagato grinned. Good. That was what he wanted to see. Where was the shinobi from before Naruto had left the battlefield? The one that was a fighter. He didn't need the murderer. He didn't want the murderer. But to combat darkness there was a determination that was required. One Naruto had distinctly lacked.

It was back.

"Hey, Nagato," Naruto muttered, glaring at the man in front of him. "I'm back."

Nagato grinned, orbs of chakra forming on his cannons once more.

"Prove it."

They fired.

And Naruto moved.

The blonde disappeared in a burst of speed. Nagato's eyes narrowed, ignoring the shaking of the arena as the explosions of his attack went off. That speed...that wasn't natural. He looked to his right, watching as Naruto was covered in a tight coating of wind. It wasn't his armor. No, it likely didn't provide much defensive benefit if any at all. It was too tight. But it had clearly made him faster. The blonde shot forwards once more, his body a blur. Nagato's eyes widened as he saw his chakra. It wasn't quite that. Had his chakra control improved mid fight? That shouldn't be possible! Not to this extent! He had no time to think about the so-called impossibility, Naruto appearing in front of him. Trickster flew forwards, but they weren't aimed at the Uzumaki's body. Nagato grunted, trying to maneuver but he was slower than the blonde. The weapon smashed through his cannons, rendering them completely useless. Nagato grunted, raising his arm to try and blast Naruto away only for the blonde to leap over the attack. A massive orb of chakra formed in his hands; Naruto's eyes narrowed with a level of intensity Nagato had never seen before.

"Odama Rasengan!"

Nagato grunted, the familiar glow lighting around him just before the jutsu connected, allowing him to absorb the attack. Naruto didn't seem otherwise perturbed, slipping behind the man and lashing out with a punch. Nagato's third arm whipped forwards, desperately stopping the attack. It was close. Too close. Naruto took advantage, lashing out with a series of blows from his free hand. Nagato tried to deflect them, but Naruto was simply too fast. Where the Haruno was stronger the blonde was faster. And both surpassed him in taijutsu. He had no choice to but to admit it as blow after blow rained against his body. Up in the watch room Karin grinned at her fellow shinobi as if she had already known the result. The redhead on the battlefield grunted as his head snapped back from Naruto's fist. His eyes glowed with power and a grin cracked his face.

Good.

This would be fun.

A shockwave of force erupted from his body, sending Naruto flying backwards. The blonde skipped across the battlefield before he smashed into the wall. Nagato watched Naruto rise from the wall, his eyes still just as intense. His wind armor reactivated. Nagato's eyes narrowed. He couldn't rip that armor off of Naruto with his ninjutsu skill. It simply wasn't possible. The Deva Path allowed for it, as did the Asura Path, but the blonde could out speed him if he went back to that tight wall of air around him. He had no time to think about possible counters as Naruto dashed forwards. Another Rasengan formed in his free hand, Trickster fading back into the seal on his wrist. Nagato's eyes narrowed.

"This is foolhardy Naruto."

Naruto smashed the orb directly into the wall that formed around Nagato, watching as it absorbed his chakra. The blonde smirked, continuing to funnel chakra into the attack. It was directly in front of Nagato's face, blocking his vision. Behind his back he began to weave one-handed handseals. He grinned as he finished the seals.

"Ranjishigami no Jutsu (Wild Lion's Mane Technique)!"

Nagato's eyes widened as Naruto's blonde hair suddenly elongated. It shot forwards in the shape of jaws, snatching onto Nagato's body. Naruto smirked.

'He can't absorb ninjutsu if they're physical in nature! He can only absorb the elements and raw chakra!'

Naruto roared, swinging his hair around and dragging Nagato through the ground in the process. The redheaded Uzumaki grunted as he scraped against the ground. Naruto smirked at his attack only for his eyes to widen as he hair suddenly went slack and retreated to its normal length. Nagato rose, blood leaking from the cuts on his body. Naruto frowned as he realized what happened.

'He can still absorb the chakra in physical attacks. Still, they can land. It's better than nothing.'

"You are truly powerful," Nagato muttered. "However, allow me to start fighting more seriously as well."

Suddenly chains sprouted from Nagato's body before they shot towards Naruto. The blonde's eyes widened, leaping away only for the chains to pursue him. They were fast, faster than the blonde expected. Still, he was faster. They couldn't catch him. Nagato himself realized this. The man grunted, the chains digging into the ground before ripping up vast amounts of debris, smoke and dust filling the air. Naruto's eyes narrowed, slashing at the wind around him but it was too late. The chains reached him. They wrapped around the blonde, holding him still. Nagato smirked.

"Let me return the favor," he whispered, before he swung the chains. This time it was Naruto's turn to be dragged through the ground, the blonde grunting in pain throughout the process. Nagato smirked, his third arm transforming into a chakra cannon as he watched Naruto struggle against the chains. Deep carvings began to appear on them as his wind began to slice into them. They wouldn't restrain him for long. That was expected. It was an incomplete technique, nothing compared to his wife's utilization of the jutsu.

But it was enough.

He fired the blast of chakra, only for Naruto to look up at it. The blonde's eyes glistened with annoyance. The tornado of wind around him exploded, becoming more ferocious. It shredded the chains and managed to withstand the chakra blast as well. Naruto then dropped the jutsu, weaving through handseals in the smoke. He whispered as he landed.

"Tōton Jutsu (Transparent Escape Technique)."

Naruto waited until the smoke cleared to move, careful to not give away his position. However, it didn't matter. Nagato looked around, seemingly desperate to find the blonde. He weaved through handseals. Naruto's eyes narrowed as he did so. Those seals, it was one of two jutsu. As he approached, he realized just which one it was as Nagato turned to face him directly.

"I can see your chakra. Suiton: Mizurappa (Water Release: Wild Water Wave)!"

The redheaded Uzumaki unleashed a wave of water towards Naruto, causing the blonde's eyes to widen. It smashed into him, throwing him backwards and cancelling his jutsu. Still, Naruto wasn't done. Two clones appeared above the stream of water, each of them flying through handseals. They unleashed two different jutsu.

"Fūton: Shinkū Renpa (Wind Release: Vacuum Serial Waves)!"

"Fūton: Fūryūdan no Jutsu (Wind Release: Wind Dragon Bullet Technique)!"

The two attacks of wind surged towards Nagato, only for the barrier to form around him once more. He began to absorb the attacks, only for the clones to smirk. Both shot forwards, fists flying at Nagato from opposite sides. A fourth arm sprouted from his free side, allowing his two robotic arms to stop the attacks cold as he continued to absorb the jutsu. Just as he finished absorbing the attack he flung the clones in separate directions, watching as they disappeared in puffs of smoke. He smirked, only to feel a cold dread at his back.

"Where the hell are you looking?"

The back of Naruto's fist smashed into his cheek, sending the Rinnegan wielder skipping across the battlefield. Naruto wasn't done yet however, weaving through handseals before he smashed his hands onto the ground.

"Doton: Yomi Numa (Earth Release: Swamp of the Underworld)!"

Mud covered the already wet ground, submerging Nagato's legs and arms and bringing him to a jarring stop. He grunted, his head snapping upwards as he saw Naruto charging forwards. Nagato grit his teeth. The blonde would reach him before he could absorb the chakra in the technique and break free. He almost wanted to laugh. Naruto was proving to be more impressive than he had anticipated. When was the last time he had truly been hit? Been made to bleed? Hanzo?

It was exhilarating.

Still, Nagato knew how to counter the blonde now. Just as Naruto reached him to land a blow Nagato smirked. Chakra surged in his body.

"Shinra Tensei (Almighty Push)!"

Naruto's eyes widened as he felt an unopposable force smash into his body. He briefly tried to fight it before he was sent flying away. It wasn't just him. The mud Nagato was entrapped in blew away, as did much of the ground in the arena. Dust could not even fill the air when confronted with the mighty force. It flew upwards to the ceiling. Naruto grunted, smashing into the wall once more. He panted as the force began to fade, slowly pulling himself free from the stone prison. He had been so close. But Nagato still had been able to use that jutsu once more to free himself. Still, he had confirmed some things.

"That jutsu functions on a timer," Naruto stated. "I don't know how long it is, but that's why you can't use it all the time. It varies in length, but there's a time between where you can't use that jutsu."

Nagato grunted.

Naruto charged forwards, confirmed in his suspicions by Nagato's lack of response. He had to capitalize on the technique. That was the strongest blast he had used yet. This had to be the longest interval between the jutsu as well. This was his opportunity to hit the man! The blonde donned his tighter wind, shooting forwards in a blur once more. Nagato didn't seem concerned. Black rods dropped into his hands as Naruto approached, forcing Naruto to grunt. He unsealed Trickster before he swung. Nagato met the wind-shrouded weapon with his rods, their clash ringing out through the air. The ensuing clash was frantic. Nagato was desperately trying to defend against Naruto's assault, only able to do so thanks to his multitude of arms. Naruto grunted.

The blonde slashed downwards, only for Nagato to block it with one of his rods. Naruto didn't let up, lashing out with a kick that Nagato blocked with the forearm of his third arm, only for Naruto to push off of it, spinning his scythe. It twirled, becoming a buzzsaw that threatened to carve him in two. Nagato raised all four of his arms, grunting from the pressure as he managed to block the attack. Still, the force indented him in the ground. Naruto grunted, lashing out with another kick that made contact with Nagato's chest only for it to stick there instead. Nagato's eyes widened, seeing Naruto's chakra surge towards his foot. Just before the resulting overload could happen metal tendrils shot from Nagato's additional arms, wrapping around Naruto. The blonde let loose, the surge of chakra causing blood to spurt from Nagato's chest. The man grunted, blood dripping from his mouth but he withstood the attack. Naruto's eyes widened as Nagato grinned. Chakra surged in Nagato's body.

"Suiton Suidan no Jutsu (Water Release: Water Bullet Technique)!"

The torrent of water smashed into Naruto's chest, sending him flying backwards with a grunt. The blonde skid against the ground, pushed by the surge of water. When the attack finally finished Nagato grabbed Trickster, the weapon having slipped out of Naruto's hands when he got hit, and dashed forwards. Naruto grunted, slowly standing as he felt his chest creak. Suddenly he turned, his eyes widening as he saw Nagato appear behind him, lashing out with his own weapon. Desperately the blonde's hair grew, blocking the attack as Trickster slammed against his steel hard hair harmlessly.

"Hari Jizō (Needle Jizo)."

Nagato frowned. That technique should have caught him by surprise. He was in the blonde's blind spot.

"How?"

Naruto smirked, blood trickling down his mouth.

"The wind..." Naruto whispered. "I can sense you through the wind."

Nagato smirked at the blonde's words. What an impressive utilization of his element. It wasn't incredibly far off from what he could do with water. Still, it wasn't enough. Naruto's hair covered his entire body. That was fine. Once more the tendrils of metal shot from Nagato's arms, wrapping around Naruto's body without care of the steel hard spikes that were Naruto's hair. The man smirked.

"Raiton: Hiraishin (Lightning Release: Lightning Rod)."

The surge of electricity traveled through the rods, electrocuting Naruto in the process. The blonde screamed in pain, his hair slowly beginning to recede as he lost control of his jutsu. Nagato was unwilling to let the attack end there however, cannons forming from his back and pointing at Naruto again. They charged, taking their time as Naruto struggled to regain control of his body. Just as the blonde managed to do so they fired, an explosion ripping across the battlefield as Naruto was sent flying backwards. Blood shot from the blonde Uzumaki's mouth as his eyes rolled back. He snapped back to consciousness as he hit the ground, rolling with the impact. Nagato watched his opponent, eyes cautious. The amount of punishment the Uzumaki could take was impressive. Most shinobi would have fallen to the amount of damage they had acquired thus far in the battle.

Naruto instead weaved through handseals, his confidence not waning. Three clones appeared at his side. Naruto grunted, continuing to weave seals as one clone opened its mouth.

"Tenkyū (Heavenly Weeping)."

Senbon made of water shot forwards at lightning speeds. Nagato reacted on instinct, his real arms snapping upwards and stopping the attack at the price of them piercing through his hands. He hissed but ignored the damage. He had bigger issues to deal with. The original Naruto and the two remaining clones unleashed the jutsu they had been preparing.

"Suiton: Suigadan (Water Release: Water Fang Bullet)!"

"Suiton: Suidanha (Water Release: Water Severing Wave)!"

"Fūton: Daitoppa (Wind Release: Great Breakthrough)!"

The triple combination jutsu unleashed a typhoon of water towards Nagato, causing his eyes to widen. This combination attack was powerful, something he hadn't expected. He could not afford to get hit with that. It wouldn't kill him, but the damage done would not be negligible. Luckily, he didn't need to. He raised his arms, his barrier activating and beginning to absorb the jutsu. Naruto was unwilling to sit there and let him do that however, two of his clones appearing at Nagato's side. Both lashed out with their fists, only for Nagato's additional arms to stop the attack. However, that was within Naruto's expectations. He appeared behind the redheaded Uzumaki, Trickster in hand. He lunged forwards, the weapon cracking against Nagato's back. Or it would have. It had recharged.

"Shinra Tensei!"

The wave of force sent Naruto and his clones flying backwards, allowing Nagato to finish absorbing the typhoon. The blonde and his clones rose to their feet, determination on their faces. Nagato frowned as the two clones shot forwards, nearing the redhead. Naruto followed at a distance. The clones appeared at Nagato's sides, prepared to attack. However, just before the clones could land their blows a massive, rotating, metal tail shot from Nagato's back and slashed one of them to ribbons, the other just barely managing to avoid the buzzsaw. Naruto's eyes widened at the sight, leaping away from the attack. Nagato rolled his eyes, before he turned to look at the clone. He weaved through handseals before the ground around him rose up.

"Doton: Doryūdan (Earth Release: Earth Dragon Bullet)!"

A dragon-like head solidified next to Nagato before unleashing a storm of mud balls at the Naruto clone. However, Nagato wasn't done. He smired at Nagato. He wasn't the only one who could utilize more than one jutsu.

"Fūton: Daitoppa!"

The mud projectiles only moved faster thanks to the burst of wind. The Naruto clone tried to avoid the attack, but it was no use. It was speared through, disappearing in a puff of smoke. Naruto grit his teeth, leaping away as Nagato's eyes rested on him. Nagato's tail-like buzzsaw shot towards him, threatening to spear him through. Naruto grunted, weaving out of the way of the attacks. It was simply to slow to reach the blonde. Nagato shook his head.

"Can't have that."

The man raised his arm, smirking as the jutsu finished recharging. He was smart to have used a weaker variant earlier.

"Banshō Ten'in (Universal Pull)."

Naruto's eyes widened as he was suddenly pulled forwards by a force, directly into the path of the buzzsaw.

'He can pull me in too!'

The blonde desperately swung Trickster in front of him, the staff blocking the otherwise lethal attack. Still, the force was nothing to scoff at. Naruto felt his muscles scream in protest as he tried to stop the powerful attack, eventually being thrown backwards. He landed on his feet, but he felt it. His arms were screaming at him. He would need time to rest. Time Nagato had no intention of giving him. The tail turned into cannons, firing another barrage of chakra beams. Naruto weaved through the attacks, not activating his armor. He had to save it. He would need it. He needed an opening...

There.

He shot forwards, his wind wrapping around him tightly as he carved into Nagato's space. The man desperately tried to defend himself from Naruto's onslaught, but it was no use. The gap in taijutsu had been apparent throughout the fight. Naruto's blows kept managing to sneak through, landing glancing blows on Nagato, even with the additional arms. Nagato grunted, feeling another blow smash against his shoulder. The blonde was targeting his original arms, trying to slow him down. A fine strategy. But it wouldn't work. The two additional ones shot upwards, threatening to grab him only for Naruto to pull his body at an awkward angle. Nagato's eyes widened as the blonde flipped, his shoulder rotating. He had attached himself to his shoulder using the Tree Climbing Practice? Impressive. The blonde's knee shot downwards, smashing into Nagato's head and snapping it downwards. Naruto grinned, Trickster lashing out and smashing into Nagato's shoulder. The man was forced to his knees by the force. Naruto landed behind him, a Rasengan appearing in his hands. This was his chance!

Nagato's eyes glowed with force and then he was sent flying away once more. The redhead stood, turning to glance at the rising Naruto who was grinning. Nagato was confused. Why was he grinning? He had stopped him from landing another decisive blow, just as he had all battle. What was there to smile about? That was when it clicked. It had destroyed two of Naruto's clones.

The blonde had made three.

A horrifying screech filled the arena, causing everyone except Naruto to briefly cover their ears. Even Nagato was affected. The man looked upwards, his eyes widening as he saw the clone descending. It had hidden in the smoke and dust above! It must have leapt up there when he began to absorb the typhoon. In its hands was the source of the sound, a storm of chakra. Just what was that? It was so...dense.

"Congratulations Nagato," the original called. "My apex technique isn't something everyone sees. I call it..."

"Rasenshuriken!" The clone finished, swinging the attack downwards. Nagato's eyes widened. He could not be hit with that. He didn't even want to absorb it. That was too close for comfort, but he couldn't repel this attack. No matter, this technique wouldn't work on him. It was ninjutsu in nature, and he had another counter for ninjutsu. His barrier flared to life, beginning to absorb the technique. He smirked. It seemed Naruto had still not learned his lesson.

The original smirked. A clone popped into existence next to him before he shot forwards, his wind armor tightly hugging his body for the additional speed. He appeared next to Nagato, his armor dissipating so as to not get absorbed. Nagato grunted, his robotic arms spearing out to spear him through only for Naruto to slip the attacks, receiving only a cut on his cheek for his trouble. A punch flew out.

"Fuck you."

The blow smashed into Nagato's stomach, causing him to heave. It broke his concentration for just a second. That second was enough. His barrier faltered and the Rasenshuriken broke through. Naruto activated Kawarimi no Jutsu (Body Replacement Technique), switching places with the newly formed clone just before the jutsu detonated. A massive vortex of wind exploded to life, denting the ground as the screeching increased. Nothing inside the vortex could be seen. Both clones dispelled as the attack shot outwards, choosing no favorites. The screeching slowly began to die down, the vortex weakening before eventually it disappeared. Smoke and dust covered where it once was. Everyone, Naruto and those in the watching booth, waited with bated breath.

When the smoke cleared Naruto was disappointed.

Nagato stood, breathing heavily. Blood leaked down his body, and he looked significantly injured. His additional arms had been destroyed, as had the cannons he had summoned. His right arm hung limply at his side, seemingly completely useless for the time being. Still, that was less damage than what was expected. Frankly speaking Nagato should be dead. At least, that was what Naruto had thought. Sure, he had weakened the attack somewhat to not truly kill the man, but this was not what he had expected.

"How?"

"I activated my barrier just after it detonated," Nagato whispered raspily. "It didn't save me from the initial explosion, but the rest of the damage didn't make it through."

Nagato wanted to laugh.

"What an incredible jutsu cousin. That jutsu...that is your apex? I see why. It's a killing machine. I could see it with my eyes. The blades of wind. They were countless. I couldn't track them all. But if they had landed...I'd be dead now, wouldn't I?"

"I limited the power of the technique to not do that," Naruto stated. "But you still shouldn't be standing."

Nagato smirked.

"Ah, but I am. And it's about time I brough this fight to its end."

"What are you talking about," Naruto yelled. "I'm hurt, but not like you are. That jutsu made its mark."

Nagato smirked.

"Ah but cousin you see..."

A weight unlike any other settled onto the battlefield. Naruto's eyes widened. What? Nagato had more?

"I still haven't used all my strength yet either."

Naruto shot forwards, desperate to stop whatever Nagato was planning. He had already given Nagato everything he had and more. Sure, he hadn't used every jutsu he had. But he had fought with everything he had. There was no way Nagato had something that could trump that...right? He couldn't risk it. His body was a blur, desperate to reach the redheaded man in time. Nagato traced him the entire time, his eyes glowing ominously. The man raised his hand, his eyes glowing with even more power. Naruto snarled, recognizing the motion. A Rasengan burst to life in his hands. This was it. His coup de grace. Nagato wouldn't get up from another blow. He just needed to land this! He thrust the attack forwards, the orb just centimeters away from Nagato before the man finished gathering chakra.

"SHINRA TENSEI!"

The world went white. Naruto slipped into a brief unconsciousness as his body was sent flying away. He rag dolled away from the omnidirectional wave of force before he smashed into the wall. However, the blast didn't end there. The ground ripped itself apart from the force, massive chunks of rock and stone carving into the air. The walls of the arena cracked. The roar of the walls trying to maintain their structural integrity underneath the wave of force was deafening. The ceiling of the arena cracked before it was shattered entirely, the rubble flying high into the sky. Dust towered out of the arena, filling the area. The tops of the building cracked, peeling outwards with the lack of the roof as additional support. Even the glass covering the watch room shattered, forcing Konan to quickly activate her jutsu to protect the group from the shards of glass that flew by. Dust filled the entire booth, leaving the watch party entirely reliant on Karin's and Kisame's sensory abilities. Outside, the citizens of Ame looked up at the destruction, confusion on their faces. What exactly was going on inside?

Nagato panted as his attack ended, sweat pouring down his face. He had to hope Naruto was put down from that attack. Using more powerful blasts from the Deva Path was exhausting, and it would take him a while to recover. That combined with his injuries put him in a very precarious situation. If the blonde had somehow managed to survive that he would have to lean into some of his other abilities. Cautiously, he waited. Would he have to utilize the other paths? His answer came as the smoke cleared, drifting into the air above the tower. Naruto was on the ground, completely unconscious. The battlefield was a wreck. It looked like the structural integrity of the entire tower was hanging on by a thread. Perhaps he should have held back. Nagato looked back at Naruto, shaking his head. No. The blonde had demanded this level of effort. It was disrespectful to assume he could have defeated him without risking the tower. He would just have to build it back better. It was a sign of just how powerful Naruto Uzumaki was.

'Consider me impressed...cousin.'

"I told you," Karin stated, laughing at everyone as they leapt to the ground. As the group landed Fuka let Ashino down on the ground, although the child was still quiet. He clutched onto his mother's leg like his life depended on it. Still, his eyes were switching between Naruto and Nagato.

"Whatever," Fuka muttered, rolling her eyes.

"I can't believe he actually did that," Yahiko muttered, looking at the blonde. A new emotion flashed in his eyes. He couldn't believe the battle he had just seen from the blonde. He had done...better than anyone had in a long while.

"Nagato," Yahiko whispered. "The closest person to push you to the extent he did..."

"Was Hanzo," Nagato confirmed. "Naruto is strong."

"He didn't show me that side of him when we fought," Kisame muttered.

"Yes, I believe he was fighting more cautiously previously," Nagato stated, looking at the blonde. "He seemed to let go of those reservations against me."

Karin smirked.

"I'll be expecting those payments you know. Kamino and I were the only ones who bet he'd hit Nagato multiple times."

"You were betting?"

"Don't worry about it honey," Fuka stated, waving her hands placatingly. Nagato deadpanned at the woman, but she just whistled, avoiding his eyes. As the two had their moment Karin approached Naruto, kneeling next to him. She placed her hand on his chest and sent a quick pulse of chakra through his body. His eyes snapped open, and his body jerked upwards before he groaned in pain.

"Easy there buster. I wouldn't move so quickly."

Naruto looked around, taking in his surroundings. Everything clicked not long after. He smirked, looking at the ground with a disappointed look on his face.

"I lost."

"Yes," Nagato stated, approaching the blonde. He reached out a hand to help him up. "But there is no shame in that. You fought more brilliantly than even I expected."

Naruto laughed, shaking his head. "Well...I suppose asking you for help would be pointless if I thought I was stronger than you anyway." The blonde reached upwards, taking Nagato's hand.

"Good battle."

"A very good battle."

The redhead pulled the blonde upwards, only for Naruto to wince as he got to his feet. His entire body felt like a giant bruise. He could barely move. Nagato seemed to pick up on this. The man raised a hand, his eyes pulsing with power.

"Jigokudō (Naraka Path)."

Naruto's eyes widened as the ground next to Nagato erupted in purple flames and a massive head arose from the ground. The creature had a strange crown on its head and robes that adorned the side of its head. However, perhaps most peculiar, was the Rinnegan the creature also had. Nagato smiled.

"Go inside."

Naruto looked at him like he had grown a second head.

"What?"

"Just trust me," Nagato stated. "It will heal you."

Naruto frowned, cautiously approaching the disembodied head. Just as he got close the creature opened its mouth and two massive hands sprang forwards and grabbed him. Naruto instantly began to fight back, shock on his face. However, he was to hurt to do anything before he was placed in the creatures' mouth, and it started...chewing? Not long afterwards it opened its mouth once more. Naruto eagerly leapt out, although he looked at his body as he did so. All of his injuries were completely gone. He didn't even feel phantom pain from them. How had that happened? He didn't even remember the occurrences that had gone on inside the creature's mouth. One second, he was pulled in, and the next he felt perfectly healed of all his injuries. The creature shot back into the ground. Naruto looked up at Nagato, a look of shock on his face.

"What the hell was that?"

"One of the abilities the Rinnegan grants me," Nagato muttered. "The Naraka Path. I can repair any damage with it, although not to my own body. It's very helpful for healing others as you might imagine."

Naruto frowned, his eyes locking onto Nagato's. "Gravity manipulation, chakra absorption, the ability to replicate the abilities of a puppet, healing others, and to top it all of the ability to use every single elemental nature as though it was your specific nature. What the hell are you?"

"The wielder of the Eye of Samsara," Yahiko interjected, smirking. "Which is exactly why it's so impressive you fought so well against him. The last person to push him like this was Hanzo. The guy who even your own sensei failed to defeat, with the help of the other two Sannin."

Naruto looked at Nagato. The man sighed, rubbing the back of his head. Yahiko had a habit of trying to make him seem larger than life. Naruto frowned.

"You're...that strong," Naruto whispered, frustration clear in his voice. It took Nagato by surprise. "You had more abilities you didn't even show while we were fighting. I couldn't push you to use them."

"Like I said, I can't use the ability on myself. You made me use most of my combat abilities."

"Most," Naruto stated, frustration in his voice. Nagato was taken aback by the frustration. It burned in Naruto's heart. He thought he had pushed Nagato and was not as far away as he seemed from the man. Sure, Nagato had clearly not gone all out during the battle with the abilities he used, that was clear from the last wave of energy he had utilized, but he had been able to withstand Nagato's abilities. All of them. The man's ninjutsu was ineffective on him, forcing him to rely on his Kekkei Genkai to defeat him. To truly utilize the Rinnegan. He had taken satisfaction in that.

And yet he was wrong.

"How strong are you," Naruto whispered.

Nagato struggled to find the voice to answer him.

Naruto met his eyes.

"If we had fought seriously, both of us going for the kill...how close would I have been to defeating you?"

Nagato frowned, looking at the blonde with apologetic eyes. He truly hadn't meant to cause this level of conflict in his cousin. He understood it. The man had pride. He was one of the strongest shinobi in the world. One did not reach the apex of this world without pride in their abilities. And yet here he was, being told he had been thoroughly outclassed. Of course, it would be frustrating.

"...You would not have had the opportunity to land that jutsu you utilized," Nagato stated. "You would be dead right now."

"How close?"

Nagato frowned.

"I have seven abilities granted to me by the Rinnegan, but only six are combat related. Six Paths. You made me utilize half of them. The most combat applicable ones, bar one. My summoning. The other two abilities...are more suited to interrogation. To torture. To murder. I refuse to utilize them."

Naruto frowned, his eyes narrowing. So Nagato could summon as well, and hadn't utilized the ability against him? Along with two other abilities that were more akin to torture and interrogation techniques? Ones that would kill the victim? Naruto clenched his fists. Here he had utilized a technique designed for murder against Nagato and it had failed. Meanwhile, Nagato had not even considered using the abilities to defeat him.

It was frustrating.

An awkward silence settled over the group, only for it to be broken not long afterwards.

"Speaking of injuries," Karin muttered, approaching Nagato. "You have plenty. Here."

The woman reached her arm forwards, only for Nagato to look at her in disgust. The arm was covered in bite marks, but they all looked very old.

"I told you I will not do that."

"And I told you that when you have urgent medical needs to do so regardless. You're the only person who can't use your magic healing abilities mister! Use mine!"

Nagato rolled his eyes, shaking his head.

"I refuse."

"You stubborn asshole."

Nagato shrugged.

Naruto glanced between the two, confusion in his eyes.

"What are you talking about?"

"Karin's ability," Fuka stated, approaching. Ashino still clung to her. "Karin possess the unique ability to heal others if they bite her. They can...consume her chakra. It functions as iryojutsu."

Naruto looked at the woman, shook on her face.

"Those bite marks..."

"Are from people utilizing my ability," Karin stated. "It's really not a big deal. It's just a little draining."

"Honey," Kamino muttered. He frowned at her. Karin sighed.

"It...has a bad history. But I'm fine with using it for those that I care about."

Naruto nodded, slowly. He still felt rather confused, but at least he understood what they were talking about.

"Anyways," Nagato muttered. "I have a good idea of where you lie cousin. We can begin our training in earnest tomorrow. I have some ideas about the abilities you can utilize."

The group turned, beginning to leave. Konan was conversing with Nagato on how to repair the damage done to their training arena. Karin and Fuka were playing with Ashino, trying to keep the child's mind occupied. Kamino was simply walking behind them all. Naruto could only watch Nagato, a slight bit of annoyance in his heart. Just how strong was he? He was brought from his thoughts when Kisame placed a hand on his shoulder. Naruto glanced upwards to see Kisame grinning.

"I know what you're thinking...he's impossibly strong. It's a little frustrating how far above us he is. We trained hard to get to this position. To be at the apex of the shinobi world. We might not be the strongest but we damn sure should have a reasonable chance against anyone...and he completely destroys that idea. I've felt it myself."

"It's not a fun feeling," Naruto whispered. "Realizing just how far I am from being among the best."

"No, you are among the best. He's just on a completely different level."

Kisame looked down at his fellow weapons user.

"Remember what I told you. He's the strongest shinobi in the world."

Naruto frowned, remembering the conversations the two had had on their way to Amegakure. He hadn't believed Kisame then. But now he did. He understood exactly what Kisame had said. Naruto had given Nagato everything he had, and he hadn't even been required to go all out against him. That man...perhaps he truly was the strongest shinobi ever.

Naruto watched him retreat, his eyes wide. He had seen the apex of the shinobi world.

And something new sparked in his chest.

---

Yahiko stretched as he closed the door in his house, making a loud moaning noise as he did so. Konan looked at him, a soft smile forming on her face.

"Tired?"

"A little. That fight drained me even if I wasn't in it."

"This coming from the man who thought Naruto wouldn't land a blow."

"Can you blame me," Yahiko questioned, going to sit on a reclining chair in the room. Konan approached, sitting in his lap, and leaning into him. Yahiko grinned, planting his hand firmly on her rear and while his other hand wrapped around her. He rubbed circles on her with his thumb and she sighed in enjoyment.

"I really wasn't expecting him to be that strong. He's stronger than Jiraiya-sensei."

"He did kill Onoki."

"Yeah, I heard but," Yahiko sighed. "I guess I misjudged his strength at least. He's really impressive. But...that just makes me want him to train our shinobi more."

Yahiko groaned in annoyance, his hands going up to his head.

"Ah, what would it take to get him to train Ame shinobi? Think of the powerhouse we could become if he did that!"

Konan frowned, pulling away to look at her husband.

"Yahiko...honey...have you considered that Naruto doesn't want to fight anymore?"

Yahiko frowned.

"He's a shinobi."

"A runaway."

"Konoha will not let it's Jinchuriki go."

"No, but that doesn't mean he has to go picking fights."

"Training our shinobi doesn't mean he's picking fights."

Konan frowned, her eyes piercing her husbands. Yahiko looked away, afraid to meet her eyes.

"You know better," she lectured. "And you know the conflict he'll feel. If he trains our shinobi that means he is also helping our shinobi kill others. Kill Konoha shinobi. People he fought and bled with. People he killed for."

"I'm well aware," Yahiko grumbled, thinking back to the interaction with Konohamaru. "His loyalties are compromised."

"They're not," Konan stated firmly. "They're right where they should be. With his loved ones."

"Konan-"

"Naruto was not raised here Yahiko," Konan interrupted. "Nagato and his family are his. And Naruto will protect them. He'd give his life for any of them, and he's barely known them. But he'd do that precisely because he knows what it's like to lose the people he loves. He isn't too different from us you know."

"Oh please," Yahiko stated with his eyes rolling. "What does a shinobi of the initial five Great Powers know about our struggle? He grew up in the most powerful village on the continent."

"His parents died the day he was born Yahiko. He never got to meet them. All of us knew our parents, even if they died when we were young."

Yahiko frowned, looking downwards.

"Then, his godfather, our sensei, died. Then his wife. Naruto knows death just as much as you and I. He has felt pain. You would do well to acknowledge that. He isn't a warmonger. He isn't the shinobi that killed our families or held us hostage. You can't keep placing that hatred on him. He isn't responsible."

"Maybe he isn't," Yahiko muttered. "But he represents everyone who is. He's killed countless shinobi. Probably orphaned children before. And he got to go home and live with his family. He led the annexation of Kusa. He is a warmonger. He's done it. His actions are part of the reason this whole bloody war began!"

"And that's a burden he has to bear," Konan stated. "And a decision he has paid the price for. Twice over. Stop being so hard on him."

Konan stood, looking at her husband with a disappointed look on her face.

"Besides, like you said. He's the Jinchuriki. How much choice in the matter did he really have? Can one individual truly fight the entire world? Their entire village? Their shinobi in arms? He isn't what you hate. He's just a convenient punching bag."

Yahiko frowned, looking at the ground. Frustration on his face. Konan placed a hand on his shoulder before she began to walk away.

"You and he aren't so different you know. The sooner you realize that the sooner you two can get along."

Konan walked off, headed to the bedroom. Meanwhile Yahiko sat on his bed, annoyance festering in his heart. Naruto and him were alike? What a repulsive idea. He was nothing like him. A shinobi that annexed countries. All for the name of glory and power of one's own village. No higher goal. There was no justice in that. It was just slaughter. Yahiko was nothing like that.

He had a cause.

Peace.

And Naruto was a piece of the system that fought against that. First when he was a shinobi of Konoha, and now when he refused to train Amegakure shinobi to better defend themselves from the threats outside. From the war that threatened to encroach on their borders. From Bijuu. Throughout his entire life the blonde had fought against the creation of peace. He had fought for the antithesis of Jiraiya's dream. To Yahiko, it was as simple as that.

---

Hours after the battle between the two titans of the Uzumaki Clan Nagato and Fuka sat, both of them in their bedroom. Fuka sat near the window, looking out intently. Rain pattered downwards, cloaking the village of Amegakure. Nagato approached her, his hand resting on her shoulder.

"You're worried."

"And you're not? He had no reaction to the battle."

"It will take longer than that to heal the scars on his mind."

"He shouldn't have them," Fuka cried out, looking at him. Nagato's eyes met his wife's, a frown forming on his face as he saw them redden. "I'm his mother. And I failed to protect him. I wasn't even there."

"You cannot blame yourself," Nagato stated. "They snuck into the village. It will not happen again."

"How," Fuka whispered. "How can we be sure? The rain can only do so much. Karin can't keep her jutsu active indefinitely. What can we truly do to stop them Nagato?"

Nagato tenderly grabbed his wife's face, having her look up at him.

"Nothing will happen Fuka. The kage know my fury. The shinobi will tell the tale of our battle. They will not risk invading."

The man gave his wife a smile, one that tried to fill her with confidence.

"I'm here love. I'm here."

Fuka seemed unreceptive, tears streaming down her face. She was shaking, terror clearly in her eyes. She was vulnerable, a vulnerability Nagato had not seen in the woman in a long time. Not since he had first met her. Not since she had learned he was Uzumaki.

Nagato frowned, kneeling to be level with his wife. He wiped away the tears that fell down her face, a kind look on his face.

"I will never let anything happen to Ashino. I promise you Fuka."

"Even if you have to slaughter Konoha shinobi," Fuka questioned. Nagato frowned. "You let some of them live. They can report back to Konoha. Find ways to break in again. They know we have a child. They know we're vulnerable."

Fuka shook her head.

"That's not you Nagato-kun. And I love you for it. But...you're not a killer."

"If I must be," Nagato stated. "If they come for Ashino again, I will be."

Fuka looked at him, shock in her eyes only to see a hardness in Nagato. It was resolute. Firm. He meant it. He brought his wife in, holding her as she clutched onto his body.

"I will not allow anyone else to harm our home. Our son. Konoha, Kumo, Kiri, Suna, Iwa, it does not matter. If anyone tries to take our peace from us, I will show them what it means to cross Amegakure. To cross the Uzumaki."

"I'm scared," Fuka whispered, shaking in her arms. "My mother...my father...my family. I saw our homeland burnt to the ground. Razed. I...I can't go through Uzushio again."

Nagato shook his head, holding her even more tightly.

"When you came here did I not guarantee your safety? From Kumo and from Kiri? From those you had crossed in the past? And I have I not always made good on my promises? I will protect you all until my last breath. Whatever the price may be. Whatever techniques I must use. I will not allow you all to suffer."

"You're home here," Nagato whispered in the woman's ear, holding her tightly. "And I will protect our home. Forever."

Nagato pulled back, Fuka looking him in the eyes. His eyes glowed in the darkness of the room. Fuka could only stare into them. The Rinnegan. They were ever-present. Powerful. They allowed Nagato to accomplish amazing things. Terrifying things. It was proof that he was a greater class of shinobi than the rest. And as she saw her husband, Fuka had faith. His words only strengthened it.

"I will never permit anything like Uzushio to happen ever again."

---

Danzo walked into the testing chamber once more, a frown on his face. He glanced at Blank, the scientist currently working passionately throughout the room. Danzo followed him with his eyes, trying to understand everything the man was muttering. He was well-versed in genetics, in all aspects of being a shinobi really, but the conversation was far above even his own expertise. That was fine. Blank was the leader of his research team for a reason. If the man did not surpass his knowledge, he would have been a waste of assets. And Danzo did not do wasted assets.

"I presume the Haruno's notes were helpful?"

Blank looked up, somewhat shocked to see Danzo there. However, the response from his tone was as monotone as ever. Good. The training was working.

"Sir! Yes, her notes have been quite helpful. Her analysis on the utilization of bacteria for rapid growth and reproduction of genes has been rather enlightening. Restriction endonucleases would be a far better method than what the snake was doing. Utilizing this as a template would be helpful. Of course, it is rough around the edges, likely due to her not having full information. Still, being able to isolate the DNA at specific sequences should help me better splice the genes utilized in the creation of the Sharingan and Byakugan. If I can isolate the plasmids in the bacteria, I can stop the body's natural fighting of the Kekkei Genkai. It is a major breakthrough! If I can have more samples of the Sharingan and Byakugan I am positive I can get you working replicas for shinobi!"

"Good. As for the Shodai Project?"

"Still a struggle. Sakura Haruno's genius will still help with the replication, but it is not easy. Hashirama Senju was the only known person to awaken the Mokuton (Wood Release) naturally. Kinoe has proven uniquely capable of handling the Shodai's genes, but his genetic code has not proven to be sufficient to create replica's. Of course, I have analyzed the genes of Hashirama's direct descendants along with Tobirama to see if there were any significant differences but I have yet to find any. The man was truly unique. It will take me time to create the clone."

"We need the clone more than ever," Danzo insisted. "We cannot remove the thorn in our side that the Uchiha are until we have another method of contesting the Bijuu from other villages. We are in a precarious situation."

"I will try my best sir."

"Your best is clearly not good enough."

Blank seemingly had no response to the insult, instead continuing on with his comments.

"If I may sir, if we took more of Kinoe's cells they may be more useful in finding the right genetic sequence required to replicate the Mokuton. Of course, that may result in his death."

"I similarly cannot kill him until we have a guaranteed replica of the Kekkei Genkai, from a shinobi who is capable of utilizing it at a much higher level. He is still the only one with the slightest capacity to use it to calm a Bijuu."

"Can I have a sperm sample then? Perhaps his children could generate the required genetics..."

"Consider it done," Danzo stated. The elderly warhawk turned, walking towards the door.

"Just get me my army. I am old Blank. I will not live forever, even with my enhancements. I must create a generation of shinobi capable of fighting the threats to come soon. Konoha will not stand otherwise."

"Yes sir."

---

"Hey little guy," Karin stated, walking into Ashino's room. The child was quiet, sitting on his bed. He didn't acknowledge her. Karin didn't care, approaching and sitting down next to the child.

"Still not talking much huh? I get it. It's scary huh."

Ashino was silent.

Karin smiled, reaching out to rest a hand on Ashino's shoulder.

"Although I wonder how much of that is your feelings, and how much of that is someone else's."

Ashino looked up at her confused. Karin smiled, winking at the child. He sat up completely.

"You can feel it too?"

"Yep," Karin stated. "Those emotions you're feeling right now. It's a lot huh. Worry. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. It's easy to get overwhelmed if you don't know what you're doing. Especially when you awaken it like you did."

"What is this? What is this feeling?"

"It's one of our clans Kekkei Genkai," Karin answered. "The Kagura Shingan (Mind's Eye of the Kagura). It's a sensory technique, and part of its abilities mean you can feel the emotions of others. I can use it too."

Ashino stared up at his elder cousin, his eyes wide. Something...inticed him. She felt warm. Comforting. Protecting. Slowly he crawled up to her, clinging to her desperately. Karin smiled, wrapping an arm around him and bringing him in close.

"It's scary," Ashino whispered. "I hear so many thoughts going on in my head. So many emotions. I don't know which are mine and which aren't."

"Let's do an impromptu lesson," Karin whispered. "Close your heart. Focus only on your breathing."

Ashino tried to do as she said, his eyes closed as he focused. He kept taking deep breath after deep breath, the subtle shaking of his body stopping. As he was in the process of doing that Fuka entered the room. Karin smiled at the woman but said nothing. Ashino hadn't looked up. It was working. The child let out a deep breath, his shaking finally completely stopping.

"I...I can't hear anything."

"Good job. You turned off the jutsu. It's a lot to handle at first."

Ashino's eyes snapped open smiling.

"Thank you, auntie!"

"Of course."

Ashino's eyes turned, widening as he saw his mother.

"Kaa-chan!" he said, rushing over to the woman. He smashed into her, causing Fuka to smile. She wrapped her arms around him.

"I was so worried about you," she whispered.

"I know," Ashino said. "I could feel it."

Karin raised an eyebrow at the comment. That was interesting. Was he already capable of picking out individual's thoughts? He had utilized the jutsu for a little over a day. That was...somewhat impressive. A faster rate of learning than her, even if she didn't awaken it through such a traumatic experience.

Fuka gave a soft chuckle. "I'm sorry for putting so much stress on your little shoulders. You've had entirely too much thrust onto you these past few days."

"It was scary," Ashino whispered. "I'm still scared. I thought I would never see you again."

"You never need to worry about that," Fuka insisted, hugging him tightly. "I'll always be there for you honey. I promise."

Ashino smiled, hugging his mother tightly. Fuka smiled, reciprocating. Karin smiled, standing. She didn't want to intrude. However, as she prepared to leave Fuka called out.

"Thank you, Karin."

"Don't mention it."

Karin opened the door to leave only for Ashino to grab her hand. She turned, raising an eyebrow at the child. He looked at her with a hopeful look on his face.

"Are you gonna train me how to control it auntie?"

Karin smiled.

"Of course. We can start whenever you feel ready."

"Then let's start tomorrow!"

Karin raised an eyebrow. Fuka herself was confused.

"Honey, don't you think that's a little too soon?"

Ashino shook his head.

"Nope! I need to control this as much as possible so it can never happen again! Naruto-oji and Tou-san can't even use this, and they were so amazing today. But they won't always be there. They can be outsmarted. I don't want to be the cause of that ever again."

Fuka frowned.

"Ashino, that's too much."

"Everyone's doing their part," Ashino cried out. "I felt it Kaa-chan. Naruto was so scared, but not for himself, but for me. And Tou-san...he was so angry. I don't want them to feel like that ever again."

Ashino looked at his mother firmly.

"I'm gonna be a shinobi someday. I should be the greatest shinobi I can be. Like Tou-san!"

Fuka looked taken aback, shocked at the powerful words from her child. He was asking for training? After what he had just experienced? He should be requesting the right to be a child, not to participate in this war-torn world around them. Unlike his mother, Karin smiled at the child.

"Well, I'm not a great shinobi," Karin stated. "But I can train you how to control our ability."

"That's fine," Ashino said, turning to her. He then turned back to his mother.

"And you Kaa-chan. You're strong. Can you teach me how to be a shinobi?"

"But the Academy-"

"Is too slow," Ashino interrupted. A determination was written on the child's face, a determination that was too powerful to be purely his. Out of curiosity Karin opened the Kagura Shingan and a smile rested on her face. The child's determination was his own. But his thoughts were filled of his father and uncle fighting to protect him. Doing everything they could to make him safe.

What a brave child.

Karin nodded at Fuka, causing the woman to frown. She knelt before her son.

"Are you sure about this? It won't be easy."

Ashino smiled.

"Naruto-oji says nothing is easy."

Fuka smiled.

"I guess he does."

---

The Raikage smirked as he read the report. The Ichibi was running wild on Konoha's western flank huh? Good.

"Samui," he called.

The blonde entered his tent, looking at him.

"Sir? Is there something I can help you with?"

"Mobilize a force to march on Konoha's border. Something large but keep it under wraps. Mobilize the forces slowly. We can't have Konoha picking up on our plans."

"Sir, are you planning on fighting Might Gai and Shisui Uchiha?"

"No," the Raikage muttered. "I will push harder towards the southern end of their border, towards the Kiri area. Below Locust Bay into the Hotpsrings. B and I should draw the attention of Shisui Uchiha and Might Gai."

"But sir, an assaulting force on Konoha without you is doomed to fail."

"Not if it's large enough. They can puncture Konoha's line and force either Gai or the Uchiha to retreat. Preferably both. That lets us collapse them in a full-scale route from their eastern flank. That is why it's critical this is kept under wraps. If they catch wind of it the strategy won't work."

"I see. And of our southern border sir? Against Kiri? A large group of shinobi will drain from that side of the war."

A frowned.

"Send Dodai. He won't be helpful pushing, but his defensive specialty with the Yōton (Lava Release) should help them hold. Still, we will have to simply hope that Darui and Yugito are strong enough to hold while we push on Konoha. This is an opportunity we cannot allow to slip through our fingers."

"Yes sir!"

A watched as Samui left the tent. A smile crept onto his face. This was good. Konoha was vulnerable. No Jinchuriki. No Uchiha capable of handling a Bijuu. And no Mokuton. A rogue Bijuu at their border was a disastrous situation for them. And all he needed to break them was one well-placed surprise attack.

Yes.

This was very good.

---

Hey guys! Thanks for the reviews from last chapter. I'm glad y'all are theorizing things and excited to see where stuff goes. Couple things I want to address.

Generally speaking, this is a light AU, so most things from canon are here, but some things are different (for example Yahiko is alive and the Akatsuki doesn't exist, the reasoning for that will be explained later). There are a couple key events that have already been shown/are obvious that should be known, for example the Kyuubi Attack still happened, Naruto has already met with Minato in the seal, and the Uchiha Massacre did not happen. The Chunin Exams were obviously a tad different considering Gaara was a Jonin during them and wasn't in the exams. However, power scaling isn't one of the things from canon that apply. Obviously, there are people who are relatively as strong as they were in canon, but there are many more that aren't. So, generally speaking, I wouldn't use canon barometers of Nagato's, Kakuzu's, or Sakura's strength for example to see how powerful Naruto or any other character is. You'd have to compare them within the bounds of this world. For example, as I think I've made clear, Nagato is much stronger than he was in canon. He's older, has more experience with his abilities (on top of new ones), and is ya know...healthy. Side note, that's kinda crazy considering Nagato when he was revived was still bullying Naruto and Bee and had to get sealed by Itachi to win.

As for other major villains like Obito, Madara, Orochimaru, etc. I can't say much without spoilers but just keep reading. Maybe they'll show up. Maybe they already have.

Also, guys, no, Naruto isn't gonna fall in love gonna tell you that now. He's extremely traumatized from his wife and child dying. Nobody is getting through that. He's a single man.

That being said, some things you guys mentioned may very well happen. Who knows?

Well me.

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoyed Naruto vs Nagato along with some of the scenes as well. They were a little short, but the main point of this chapter was the fight. I've been waiting for that fight. There's two other Naruto fights I'm waiting on that I'm really gonna like writing. I finally got to show Naruto going all out, even if he did lose. A lot of people have been begging to see his full strength and I'm very glad I got to demonstrate that finally. He isn't as one-dimensional as he looks. He just has a preferred way of fighting. Nagato promptly beat that tendency out of him. Naruto is just like everybody else. He got comfortable with what generally works for him and got limited by it. That can happen to top tier fighters occassionally, and they need the piss kicked out of them to realize "oh shit I gotta evolve". Also, Naruto was the first person to land a blow on Nagato (at least that's shown. Jiraiya beat the shit out of him in training). So, props to him! That's not an easy thing to do.

Anyway, hope y'all enjoyed and review, review, review!