16
Author's Note:
Hello everyone! Welcome to this bonus chapter!
As some of my older readers may know. This story once had a pilot. I decided to remove it sometime after due to it feeling out of place at the time.
So why am I bringing it up again, well Its BACK!
If you are reading this after Chapter 11, you know that Naruto came clean to his new group. So to add more context, I feel like the pilot now fits better into the story.
This chapter is the exact same as the original pilot, just with a different Author's note and title.
With how out of place it was at the time, I was genuinely amazed that people liked it since it had nothing to do with street fighter yet.
Anyways, its return will now be permanent, giving both old and new readers a foundation as to how and why Naruto behaves the way he does in this story.
Thank you all so much for the support. It means a lot that you all care.
Once Again thank you for choosing my story and I hope you enjoy. ^_^
Bonus Chapter: Naruto's Last moments in the Ninja World
It was supposed to be over. They had won… so why does it seem like the universe wants to make things complicated. Why can't there be a simple end to a mission? Is this his own curse coming back to bite him in the ass again.
These are some of the thoughts that were happening in the mind of one Naruto Uzumaki. Standing in his black top and orange pants. Both concern and some frustration appeared in his bright sapphire-like eyes. His normal bright and cheerful attitude is replaced with frustration. Standing next to him was, well, he was hoping to be his future partner, Hinata Hyuga, staring at a floating orb like artifact right in front of them. She was as elegant and beautiful as ever. Her hair, a beautiful shade of blackish, dark blue. Her lavender eyes filled with worry and some fear.
Why do they have these expressions? For one, the artifact that they are staring at is radiating a massive amount of energy. After Hinata landed a blow on Toneri Otsutsuki giving them time to arrive at the Tensigan or energy vessel. Their intent was to destroy it, preventing Toneri from using it to destroy humanity. However, after their combined attack connected, instead of it being destroyed, it began a chain reaction. Soon the vessel began pulsating, releasing large amounts of nature energy. Some parts of it seem to be expanding, almost like it's about to burst.
"You fools! What have you done!" Looking away from the vessel, they turn around to see Toneri, holding his side and looking at them/the vessel in desperation, and fear.
"This vessel was never intended to be destroyed". Toneri stated, causing both Naruto and Hinata to reel back in shock.
"What are trying to say!" Naruto asked/demanded Toneri to continue. "Hinata said that only someone with Hamura's blood can interact or destroy it". Naruto said in frustration.
Toneri continues, "Interact with yes, utilize yes, but never destroy". He revealed as he walked closer to them. Seeing no intent of an attack, Naruto and Hinata let him continue, "This vessel has not one, but two security jutsu placed on it. One that prevents people that aren't descendants of Hamura from interacting with it, and one that occurs when someone, even a descendant, tries to destroy it". He continued. They are all now standing next to each other, staring at the vessel as it continues to release energy.
"S-so this other jutsu is what's causing this reaction! Is it going to explode?!". Hinata stated, connecting the dots.
Toneri nodded, "The Otsutsuki family have a history of fail-safes and protecting their sources of power." He states while still rubbing his side. "This room is now a prison. Seals and jutsu prevent even chakra users from leaving. When the vessel explodes, the blast is expected to severely injure if not kill the one that attempted to destroy it." A gasp escapes both Naruto and Hinata, "Afterwards, it will reset/shutdown, until a descendant of Hamura can reactivate it". Toneri finished his explanation as the vessel began to expand more, causing the three to jump back.
"Well, there has to be something we can do right, I mean, with us working together I think we ca-" Naruto was trying to say before he was cut off by Toneri, "Do what, tank the blast. Ha, even if we were able to withstand it, the resulting blast will still be enough to dislodge enormous amounts of debris. Since the Moon is now closer to Earth, its gravity will bring in those pieces, causing damage to your home and the world as a whole". Toneri stated, sitting down legs crossed no longer holding his side.
Naruto and Hinata remain silent for a little bit. This can't be real, they just rescued Hanabi, now they may have doomed the planet. Is it over?
"N-no, no, no, no! There has to be something that we can do, surely there's a way to conceal the blast. Something anything!" Hinata looks at Toneri, hoping for a response. He said nothing and merely looked back at the vessel as it continued to pulsate.
Meanwhile, Naruto was thinking over what Toneri stated. He asked him, "Toneri, you said that no chakra user can leave this room right"? Toneri looked back at Naruto and responded, "Anyone with Chakra that tries to break out by force will have their energy drained, speeding up their demise". He stated once again, returning back to looking at their impending doom.
So, we can't break out of this room, and this blast will destroy a large portion of the moon. As Naruto continues thinking, he notices Hinata collapsed on her knees and hands, tears, began to fall as she begins to sob. Naruto can't stand to see her like this. He needs to think of something, anything.
An idea began to surface. He looks at Toneri and states, "Toneri, I know that we weren't seeing eye-to-eye, but at this point in time, if we just accept our fate, then innocent lives will be lost. I for one will not go down without a fight! However, I can't do my plan alone, I need your help. So, I'm asking you, can you trust me".
Toneri stares at him hard, "How can you say that. Why mention others when you are the one to likely die first. Why do you think this way?!". Toneri's stare grew harsher the more he spoke.
Naruto with determination stated back, "because humans can, and have achieved peace, it isn't perfect, but for once, the world is safe and calm. My friends, my comrades, my family, they all died trying to achieve that. They placed their hopes and dreams in me. I never ran away, I never go back on my word, because that is my nindo, my ninja way!" With conviction, he restated his old phrase that made him famous across the world. If he was to die, then dammit, he'd put up one hell of a fight first.
Toneri, after listening to his speech, was left momentarily shocked. Suddenly, the message of Hamura ran through his head. Is this what you meant Hamura, Order … peace. For so long I thought that humanity was a plague full of selfishness, greed, and unworthy of its position. Yet here stands someone, that not only sounds like you, but has the same goal. Toneri, began continued to look at Naruto's ways whether it was a trick of the inconsistent lighting, or he was seeing things, but a figure that looked like Hamura stood behind him. Almost as if telling Toneri that this human, this man, can not only be trusted, but is proof that the brother's message of peace can be achieved.
Meanwhile, Hinata, still on her knees, stopped crying for a little bit after she began to listen to Naruto speak. With tears still in her eyes, she slowly but surely regains confidence. She is reminded of the reason as to why she fell in love with him. His unrelenting will to protect, and care for those he cherishes most.
N-Naruto-kun, you have no idea how much I needed you to say that. She rubbed her eyes to remove the tears and replaced her sad expression with one filled with determination.
Toneri responded to Naruto's request, "You know, you are the first human to ever come ask me for help. Never before would I even imagine that I would consider it". He gets up and walks towards Naruto staring at him to see any form of hesitation.
He Continues, "Naruto Uzumaki, you are one interesting man. Perhaps I was wrong about humans." He pauses, and then sticks his hand out, "I'll listen to your plan and see what I can do". He smiles at Naruto, as Naruto smiles back and firmly shakes his hand.
Both Naruto and Toneri look at Hinata, noting that she was quiet for most of this time. She looks back, finishes wiping the remaining tears, and firmly nods. A look of confidence is plastered on her face.
"Alright Naruto-kun, what is you plan?" Hinata asked as she got closer to the two.
Naruto begins to explain, "Kurama and I have been practicing a technique that conceals things. It was meant to be used for many different types of damage, ranging from natural disasters, to containing large amounts of chakra. With Kurama and me working together, we can wrap around the Vessel with our chakra". Naruto stated, then looked at Toneri's direction, "Toneri, I need you to assist with providing energy. While Kurama and I contain a lot, based on what I am sensing, I am afraid we need more. Can you do that?" Toneri looks at them a little perplexed at the idea of concealing the blast. Nevertheless, he nods, " I believe I can accomplish that".
Naruto nods and then looks at Hinata's direction. "Hinata, I want you to take these." He hands her two unique looking kunai.
Hinata gasps.
"Naruto-kun, aren't these your- wait did you actually master it!". Hinata stated with some level of excitement.
Naruto grins, "Well, it runs in my family. I guess you can say it was only a matter of time". Naruto regains his composer, "Anyways, what I want you to do is use this Kunai to teleport back to earth with the others and tell the Kage's that the mission was a success." Naruto stated as he points to one Kunai that has a different color seal on it.
"Ok, but how do I even get to the- wait. You want me to Leave you both behind!". Hinata at first seemed confused, but then realized what Naruto was implying.
"N-No, I can't leave you behind, there has to be another way". Tears that she once wiped away were now returning.
Naruto smiles softly at her and pulls her into a hug.
"I'm sorry Hinata, but I can't risk your life or the others if my plan fails from containing the blast. This is the only way for you and the others to get back safely. Don't worry about leaving the room, I placed a marker on Shikamaru so you will meet up with him. Once you gather all of them, including your sister, throw this specialized Kunai. I made it so that I can remotely send people from one of these markers to the other. Once that happens, you must find Kakashi and tell them that the mission was a success". Naruto states handing her the two Kunai and preparing the technique.
Hinata looks back at his face, specifically his eyes. There filled with confidence, determination, and love. Love for his home and for her. With her hands shaking, she grabs them and says what's on her mind.
"N-Naruto-kun, p-promise me that you will return, safe and sound". Her lavender eyes looked straight into his eyes, pleading him to respond.
Naruto closes his eyes as he smiles back, "I promise that I will make it back to earth". With his eyes still closed he stated what she wanted to hear.
Not entirely convinced, Hinata stares at his face, eyes still closed, and decides to make her move.
Her slender hand moves up to caress his cheek causing him to stop smiling and open his eyes again. "Hinata, what ar-". She leans forwards, and their lips connected. It was an innocent kiss, but it was full of passion, love, and warmth. She poured all of her feelings into it. She wanted Naruto to know what he meant to her.
Naruto froze. Is this what it feels like to have a partner, who loves you back, and to share their love with? He leaned into the kiss, but kept his eyes fixated on her teary, beautiful lavender half-lidded ones. After some seconds, Hinata ended the kiss.
"I'll be waiting for you at home". She holds one of the Kunai out for him to activate the technique. Naruto stares at the kunai, then places his hand on it. "I will Hinata-chan, I'll see you soon." Before throwing Activating the technique, he places something in her hand right as she disappears. The last thing he sees is her soft, sweet smile, with a healthy blush on her cheeks.
With the rest of the group:
Sakura, Sai, Shikamaru, and Hanabi were in a race to leave the palace. The walls were rumbling, the floor was cracking, pieces of the place were falling on them.
Shikamaru asked "Damnit! Where is Naruto and Hinata? this place is about to collapse!". Sakura, who was holding onto Hanabi, responded, " Wherever they are, I hope they are safe. We need to get out now!".
Meanwhile, Sai was preparing one of his paintings to get them out of there. None seemed to notice the glowing mark on Shikamaru's arm. Well, except for Shikamaru himself.
"Huh, what the?" Shikamaru looks at the marking and tries to figure out what it is. However, he doesn't get a chance to before Hinata appears before them, with another Kunai in her hand.
"Hinata, how did you get here? And where is Naruto?". Shikamaru and Sakura asked both shocked at Hinata's appearance.
"Never mind that now". She states looking around making sure all were in the same place. "Right now, we need to go back to the Nations and notify them of our mission." She stated as she quickly looked over Hanabi's condition.
"Huh, wait Hinata, we can't leave Naruto here, it's not safe!". Sakura said in both panic and worry.
"I can explain it as soon as we get on the move, for now, everyone grab onto each other. I'm taking us home!". She says as she grasps Sakura shoulder, Sai grabs Shikamaru's shoulder, and Shikamaru places his hand on Hinata's back, and Hanabi is being held by Sakura.
"Ok here goes nothing." With one quick throw, Hinata throws the Kunai on the ground, and they teleport away.
With Kakashi:
While the events on the moon are transpiring, the 6th Hokage is currently in a call with the other Kages discussing/debating over the use of a new weapon that the Raikage has created.
The Raikage spoke, "Listen, we haven't heard anything from the leaf squad that went to the moon, for all we know they have failed. This is our chance to stop this doomsday once and for all". A completed after revealing his plan. The other Kages, whether it is a combination of the news about the new weapon or the plan itself, were left speechless and shocked.
"Are you even listening to yourself lord Raikage. Not only does that sound dangerous but let's not forget that the moon has stopped moving". The Mizukage added.
"That is true, not only has the moon stopped, but our clocks are paused as well". Gaara continued the line of thought.
"We haven't even received any messages nor any updates from the leaf squad, for all we know, Naruto and the rest are dead, thus we need to destroy the moon, to be sure nothing else tries that stunt again". A argued back with a sterner tone.
As the Kages continued to bicker and talk, a shinobi's voice alerted Kakashi, "No wait, lord Hokage is in a meeting. Y-you can't enter now". The low-rank shinobi was heard saying before footsteps were heard and the door was open to reveal one of Kakashi's old students.
"Sasuke, what are you doing?" It was Sasuke Uchiha, the Strongest Shinobi not including Naruto look at his direction and walk to him stopping about 10 ft before reaching him.
"I have an update on the current situation on the moon, can the rest of the Kages see behind you?" Sasuke asked. Kakashi, confused, moved away from the monitor, and pointed it at Sasuke.
"Lord Hokage, where did y-, oh, its you." A brought the other's attention to Kakashi's screen seeing Sasuke standing a little way away.
Sasuke walked closer to ensure they heard him. The Tsuchikage asked, "We are currently in the middle of a discussion of the ut-most importance, what is it that you want?".
Sasuke began to speak, "I have an update on the Leaf squad". The Kages, as well as Kakashi looked surprised. "Please allow me to continue". Sasuke, steps to the side of the camera, showcasing a very familiar looking Kunai to the Kages.
"A Kunai, what's so special about it". The Mizukage stated, being not too familiar with it. However, Tsuchikage reacted a little differently, "Wait a minute, the shape, the seals, why do you have one of the Fourth Hokage's Kun-. No, he didn't.". The Tsuchikage appears to be in shock. A little bit of fear is also seen in his eyes as he's realized what Sasuke is trying to say.
"Are telling me that Naruto mastered HIS technique". The Raikage finished what Tsuchikage was thinking. He shifted his gaze to Kakashi and continued, "So I wasn't the only one keeping secrets huh. When were you planning on telling us that Naruto has learned HIS techniques".
Kakashi, while still shocked at what has been stated, responded, "I had Naruto train to develop his critical thinking skills so that he can develop into the mindset of a proper Jonin. This is the first time I heard that he was also using that time to train in other aspects". Kakashi stated truthfully, realizing what this means for them and the mission.
Ever the Cautious one, the Tsuchikage nearly shouted, "Another secret! I'm starting to think that we need to have more of these meetings and reconstruct our previous treaties". Understandably, this started another argument amongst the Kages. Gaara spoke up to regain order.
"Enough. I know this is a lot to take in, but right now, we have more urgent matters. When this is over, we can find another time to meet again. Let's have Sasuke continue ." Gaara spoke sternly, almost yelling to get the Kages to quiet down and regain order.
After a bit, the Kages calmed down, looked back at Sasuke waiting for him to continue. Before Sasuke could speak, the Kunai in his hand began to glow. Sasuke continued, "I'm not going to explain anything, rather, I think I will let the squad update you all personally". He threw the glowing Kunai just a few feet in front of him, enough so that it appears in the middle of the screen.
As soon as the Kunai imbedded itself into the floor, a black blur appeared in front for a brief moment, only for the leaf squad and Hanabi to appear right on top of the Kunai.
Almost everyone the was in the room gasped. The kages all showed signs of shock, in some cases, frustration. There they were, Hanabi, Sakura, Sai, Shikamaru, and Hinata, all standing there, all showing little to no battle wounds. All of them were on the ground, slowly getting up to hold their heads.
Sakura was the first to speak, "Ugh. My head is killing me". She and the others were slowly regaining their senses and realized that they were back on earth. "We made back to earth, how di- oh Hokage-sama." Sakura alerted the others that Kakashi, as well as the rest of the Kages on the monitors., were looking at them.
Hinata after recovering, walked towards Kakashi and the rest of the Kages on the screens and began to talk. She explained everything. From Naruto rescuing her from her brainwash to the Tensigan detonation, as well as Naruto's plan to contain the blast. While all of this was happening, Hanabi was given to the medical team to ensure she could recover properly. However, Hinata continued to finish what she was told by Naruto.
"With the combined strength of Naruto and Toneri, Naruto claims they will have enough power to contain the blast. However, he also told me that, if debris were to be dislodged from the moon, that the Nations should prepare for the damages". After completing her report, she bowed her head and returned to stand with the others.
"Grr, so you're telling me that we can only sit here and hope for the best! Garrh!" The Raikage responds, clearly angry at the situation and being unable to do anything.
"It always seems like no matter what the crisis is, Naruto ends up being the one to rescue us". Gaara sighs.
As the Kages continued to talk, Kakashi gained their attention again. "Alright, no use in feeling bad now, we must prepare for the worst-case scenario." He looks back at Hinata, "We must trust that Naruto will do everything he can to contain the blast." He then looks at the Monitor that has the Raikage in it, "Since we have it, we might as well prepare to use it in case debris does reach us. I trust that the Raikage can make good judgment on when to use it." The Raikage grunts but nods, nonetheless.
Kakashi continues, "As for the rest of us, we must prepare as if this were a natural disaster emergency. Gather food, supplies, Rescue and Medical squads, workers, and water. Also start preparing for potential refugees should this incident cause any damage. As of right now, the mission to Rescue Hanabi is a success." Kakashi stated as each of the Kages, all nodded to confirm their agreement to Kakashi's plan.
Kakashi nods back, "Alright, since we are all in agreeance, please spread news of this new revelation to your respected villages and armies. Also, I ask all of you to be available for a meeting at a moment's notice for the next two to three days. This way we maximize our coordination and assistance. Are all in Agreeance?" Kakashi finishes, while waiting for a response.
Gaara was the first to respond, "The Hidden Sand Village will prepare workers and raw materials for construction, and medical teams/supplies". The Mizukage followed, "The Hidden Mist Village can also provide raw materials and rescue/tracking squads." The Tsuchikage followed after, " The Hidden Rock Village can provide food portions, water, as well as rescue teams". Last the Raikage stated " The Hidden Cloud Village can provide food, water, tools, and rescue squads".
Kakashi finishes, "Alright then, for now this meeting is concluded. Be sure to be available for another meeting at a moment's notice. I'll keep you all updated. Good luck everyone". With that, the meeting was finished and Kakashi looked back at Sasuke and the rest of the Hanabi rescue squad. " Thank you all for your contribution, however, now we must wait on Naruto". With everyone regain their serious looks. Yet, the room gained an air of worry for the blonde ninja.
Hinata says, "Come on now guys, I believe that Naruto can save us. He's done it before; he can do it again". With that Her the rest walked out of the room to continue to monitor the moon.
Back on the Moon:
Naruto and Toneri stand side by side, preparing to contain the blast that is to come. Naruto is currently talking with Kurama, having both himself and the Nine Tails gather their chakra to perform the containment technique. Toneri is sitting in a meditating position, gathering his own reserves and nature energy.
"Naruto, there is still a chance that your plan won't work. I'm not too confident that even Our combine efforts can full contain the blast". Toneri stated, without opening his eyes.
"Yeah, I know. But still, we have to try. We have the whole world counting on us succeeding. Now's not the time to doubt." Naruto responded, opening his eyes which now are colored hazel/gold with what looks like a cross for his Iris. He also stands up, and forms hand signs for his signature technique. Roughly 8 shadow clones appear next to him. Then they ran around the Tensigan, encircling it.
Finally, Toneri Gets up and activates his full power. His chakra covers his entire body, creating a green glow that surrounds him. He begins to float above the Tensigan then forms a hand sign and gather his energy again.
Naruto, taking that as his que to transform as well, actives his Kurama form. His body gets covered in an orange glow, as black markings surround his body. His clones all follow suit. Naruto once again begins talking.
"I am wondering, what made you change your view on me?" Naruto asks while also gathering his chakra.
Toneri looks at a Naruto, "To put it simply, you reminded me of someone. Someone that I view as the best my clan ever was. When you were talking about your friends, your precious people, it reminded me the selflessness and passion that this man also had". He pauses, remembering his words and message. "I believe that he would want me to ensure that you not only survive but continue your journey on maintaining peace."
Naruto feeling touched responded, "I see, well I hope to live up to his image and your expectations." Naruto says. "But I'm over here, you were looking at a clone". Toneri blinks than looks behind him and sees the original waving and grinning at him.
I see. Your technique is very good at deceiving". Toneri Commented. Naruto was about to respond, but the Tensigan began to expand once more.
"Enough conversing, if you want to activate your technique, now's the time to do so. " Toneri yells as he finishes gathering his energy.
"Alright then! Kurama! Now's our time to shine, I hope you're ready!". Inside Naruto's mind, the tailed beast is currently gathering all of his power. "Hnh, don't doubt my power. In fact, I should be asking you the same thing". Kurama states before sending the energy he already gathered to Naruto.
Naruto feels the power enter his body. He begins the technique. With a roar, a pillar of orange chakra exploded out of Naruto. The other 8 clones release a similar pillar as well. Slowly, these pillars get wider and take the form of Kurama's tails in the Avatar form. Slowly but surely, the Tensigan is encircled by these pillars of chakra.
Toneri, once he sees the Tensigan is wrapped up, Touches the chakra, filling it with his own. In a moment, half of orange chakra pillars turned into a greenish color matching Toneri's form. All the while the vessel continues to expand.
Meanwhile back with the Leaf:
As they continue to stare at the moon, they feel a tremendous amount of chakra being released. Some of the shinobi began to comment.
"Oh Kami, what is this chakra!", "Who or What can even release this much chakra.", "This chakra, it feels familiar", "Is it coming from the Moon!" Suddenly, all the shinobi were trying to figure out what exactly is releasing this much power.
Sakura comments as well, "N-no way! Is this Naruto. I knew he had a lot of chakras, but this, this even more than I could ever imagine". Placing her hand over her heart, she looks over at Sasuke, who is also looking at the moon.
"When we battle at the end of the war, I had the advantage in techniques, but one thing that I new I could never beat him in is capacity." Sasuke comments with a blank/serious expression but looks down at Sakura. Realizing she is worried over their teammate; he wraps his arm around her. She looks surprised at the notion.
"Don't worry so much. If I couldn't defeat him then, that thing on the moon wouldn't either. Did you forget the number one rule when it comes to Naruto". He states loud enough for the rest to hear him.
Shikamaru, Sai, Ino, Kakashi, and Hinata smile and or chuckle a little. Hinata finishes the comment while also looking back at the moon.
"Never, ever underestimate Naruto Uzumaki".
Back on the Moon:
It has begun. The Tensigan finished expanding, then it burst open. Immediately, the containment technique held strong, but soon, it too began to expand as well. Both Naruto and Toneri can be seen struggling to contain the blast.
One of the pillars was punctured by the explosion. Releasing energy to the room. With another roar, Naruto begins to close the hole, however, more holes begin to appear. Toneri, who was at first hovering above the Tensigan, was now seen much closer to the pillars, placing his hand on it to give a more direct source. He is also grunting in effort.
"Naruto! I think this isn't enough! We need more power!". Toneri states as both heat and the blast itself begins to burn his hand.
Naruto was fairly much better. With one eye closed, he responds, " Hang on Toneri, I going to try something!" Naruto begins channel more chakra, he creates another clone that maintains the pillar, Naruto, slowly, uses his strength to leave the pillar, towards the Tensigan.
Toneri sees this and shouts, "Naruto, what are you doing, that's suicide!" Naruto is seen jumping under the vessel. A moment later, he sees the Kurama avatar wrapping its arms around the blast as well.
I see. He is using direct contact to try and absorb some of the blast. He does seem like he is trained in Senjutsu. Toneri thought while observing Naruto's actions.
With another roar, Naruto begins to compress the blast using the Avatar form. Slowly, the blast gets smaller, and gets absorbed by Naruto himself. However, there are still holes in the pillars, and they are no longer closing. Beams of energy begin cutting up the room, the palace, and the surface of the moon itself.
Toneri, realizing its now or never, dives into one of the pillars and makes his way towards the original Naruto. Once he made it, he assisted Naruto with absorbing the energy.
Slowly but surely the explosion's intensity was decreasing as the two continued to absorb the blast. Suddenly, Naruto begins to cough, blood is beginning to power out of his mouth.
Concerned Toneri states, "Naruto are you ok". While also grunting at the effort he was exerting. Naruto didn't respond. Instead, he stopped coughing, let out another roar, and continued to compress the chakra.
Toneri couldn't believe it. This human was in a great deal of pain, yet he is willing to go even further, sacrificing his body to protect what's important to him. The same figure that he saw before appeared again, this time with two other figures alongside him. It's also as if he can see the people that Naruto not only admire but strives to be like.
A loud coughing spree followed by a yell of pain broke him out of his thought when he saw that Naruto's expression changed into that of pain, yet he continued to do his job.
No. No! I will not let this man die! With Conviction, Toneri stepped in front of Naruto, before placing his hand in Naruto's chest. Naruto opened his eyes and stared back at Toneri.
"Toneri, argh! What are you doing!" In between grunts Naruto asks Toneri. All he got in response was a smile and a nod.
Toneri took his Hand off of Naruto's chest. A green orb is seen stuck to his chest. Then Toneri begins to speak. "Naruto, I am sorry for all the trouble I have caused you." Naruto looked at him in shock. What, he was apologizing, now? . Toneri continued.
"You really are one special human being. I can't let this be your demise. Take this as my way of repaying you for my misdeeds". Toneri begins to head closer to the point of contact between the Avatar form and the explosion.
Naruto sees this and yells out, "Wait Toneri you can't walk out there. You know that being exposed to that much nature energy can damage you right?" Toneri didn't react to that comment instead, prepared to breach the Avatar form. Before that he turns around on last time.
"Naruto, I know this may not be a good time, but can you promise that you will continue to be yourself. To always fight for the goodness of others. To try and be a protector and a defender. Can you also do your best to maintain peace on the Earth. I know I don't have a good view of you humans, but I do believe you are destined to be the one to save it." With that he begins to leave the Avatar form and face the blast himself.
"Wait, Toneri, don't do this". Naruto says wanting to chase after him but was stopped by another coughing fit, reminding him that he needs to maintain focus on stopping the blast.
"Forgive me Naruto. I now see that you are already carrying the burden of so many. As well as try maintaining your expectations set by those you try to be like. I apologize, but I'm asking you to carry my more expectations. Please do your best and never stop improving". He finally says almost all of his body is out of the form, leaving part of his head still inside.
Naruto tries again to stop him. "You don't have to do this; I can still do mo-" He was cut off by Toneri.
"Naruto, I've made up my mind." He pauses before continuing, "This is the only way." Right before he full leaves he says, "Good-bye Naruto". He leaves now facing the blast.
Slowly, Toneri's figure gets absorbed by the blast itself. Then, after a bit, the mass of chakra lost size significantly. The strain that Naruto feels starts to diminish. Then, a pulse was sent out from the center of the mass. This blast did a bit of damage to the Avatar and Naruto had the wind knocked straight out of him.
Then, after somewhat recovering, Naruto sees Toneri body at the very center of the explosion. The mass of chakra got smaller and smaller, as Toneri continued to absorb it. Moments later, the chakra mass completely absorbed Toneri. At first it was quiet.
Did he do it. Is he ok? Naruto thought to himself. Slowly his Avatar form was dropped but he was still in his Kurama cloak. The rest of the clones disperse and the pillars containing the blast also disappeared.
Right when he was about to move more, he heard Kurama's voice. "NARUTO! Get back!" Right as he said that. Toneri's body expanded and exploded. Without the containment technique, Naruto body was engulfed by the blast.
Back on Earth:
From their point of view all the Villages were sensing a mass amount of chakra. Then suddenly, it disappeared. For a moment nothing happened, however, after a bit, a large explosion was seen on the moon. A large piece of it began to float away.
Panic began to form. The Kages tried to maintain order.
With the Raikage:
"Aright Bee, Fire away! We must limit the amount of debris." The Raikage Ordered. The weapon, once again fully charged, fired at the chunk of rock with the aim of destroying it.
With the Leaf Village:
The large blast separated a small chunk of rock from the moon. Kakashi, seeing this happen began to order the shinobi to get prepared.
However, one individual's scream broke through the silence.
"NARUTOOO!". It was Hinata. Tears began to pour out of her eyes as collapses to her hands and knees.
As she begins to sob. The rest of the squad can only look on in both shock, and fear that the worst has occurred.
"Did he fail? Are we doomed?" Ino said as she saw the large rock heading towards them.
As soon as she says that they see the same chakra blast from before head straight for it. Then once it made contact, the large rock was broken up into much, much smaller meteorites that begin to pepper the surface of Earth.
"It seems that the Raikage's weapon did its job". Kakashi stated. Then, he turns to his shinobi and start ordering them around.
"Alright, Rescue and Medical squads, begin mobilizing. The rest of you, prepare for damage control". He finishes his orders. He receives a loud "Hai" from the shinobi and once again, everyone begins to move.
Kakashi then turns to those next him, hearing the comment that Ino said. He was going to respond but Sasuke beat him to it.
"Don't worry Ino. Naruto succeeded. If I remember correctly, Hinata said that the blast was strong enough to destroy the moon entirely. From what we see, the blast pales in comparison.". Sasuke finished it by moving slightly further, trying to sense out the energy.
He continues, "If you paid attention there were three energy sources coming from the moon. Right now, only one is left. It's faint, but I recognize it as Naruto's ". Hope was brought with that statement.
Hinata and the rest gained a look of relief and happiness with those words. With determination, Hinata stood up, wiped her tears a began to speak.
"Right, this means that we need to go back and get him home. We know where the passage is located. We use it to get back and bring Naruto-kun home."
With that the rest of Konoha 11 run off to bring Naruto back home.
At the Passage:
"N-No, this can't be happening." Hinata's voiced what everyone was thinking when they arrived at the pool that led them to the moon.
"It's all dried up". Sai commented when he approached the crater that was once filled with water.
"Then how are we even going to get to Naruto". Kiba pointed out followed by Akamaru barking alongside him.
The rest of the Konoha 11 talked amongst themselves trying to come up with something.
Then, Shikamaru spoke. "Wait, Hinata, don't you have one of his Kunai. Maybe we can use it to teleport to him". Everyone brightened up at the realization. However, Sasuke followed up after Shikamaru.
"I'm sorry to be the downer but do any of you even know how to use the kunai to begin with?". None spoke up. Then Sakura turned to him and asked.
"Wait, you had one of those Kunai right. Do you know how to use it since it was your kunai that got us back". She pointed out. Now everyone was looking at Sasuke for his response.
He shakes his head, "I was given it by Naruto himself. He stated that it was for emergency use only. The seal he placed on it would only work once. Meaning that unless anyone hear can remaster the Fourth's technique, its no use." With all, morale went down.
Hinata, once again fell to her knees, on the brink of tears, she clinches the kunai that was given to her by Naruto. Sakura, Ino and Tenten approach and try to comfort her. As they were doing this, Tenten saw something red attached to the kunai.
"Hey Hinata, what's that red thing hanging onto the kunai." she asked while pointing at it. Hinata looks down and sees that there was a piece of red cloth wrapped around the kunai. She opens her hand and grabs the cloth with the other.
"This is a piece of the scarf I made Naruto-kun". Last she saw it; it was ripped to shreds by Toneri before she was brainwashed.
She twirls the cloth around, noticing a black seal on the other side. Seeing this, she channels Chakra into it.
*Poof* a small box that looks like a ring box appears in her hands.
"Woah, what is it Hinata". Ino asks. The rest of the Konoha 11 notice this and turn to see what Hinata has in her hands.
"Look Hinata there's a note on the top of the box". Choji said. Hinata looks at the note and begins to read it out loud.
"Hello Hinata. If you are reading this, then it means that I was resorted to using a very dangerous technique that may have put my life on the line. If that is the case, then inside this box is a special gemstone. I believe it's called amethyst . Anyways, that stone has seals that I placed on it that tells you, my heartbeat. If the gemstone is glowing bright purple, and pulsating like a heartbeat, then it means that my heart is beating. If it's dull and no light is seen, well, you can guess what that tells you about my status. Hinata, no matter what happens, or what that stone says, please do your best to enjoy life. Continue growing strong, explore the world around you, and never stop caring for others. I know I was an idiot for so long. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. Stay safe and I hope to see you soon. – Naruto Uzumaki".
After reading the message, everyone stared at Hinata, specifically, the box. The girls backed up a little from Hinata, giving her some space. Soon everyone was waiting for what Hinata might do next.
"Um, shouldn't we open it now to get an update on Naru-" Sai was cut off by a punch to the arm curtesy of Sakura.
"This isn't something that can be rushed". Sakura replied. Effectively ending that train of thought in almost every male member of the Konoha 11.
With shaking hands, she places her right hand on the lid, she rubs it with thumb, then gets the thumb under the lid, and slowly raises it. The tension was rising as all the members of Konoha 11 were waiting to see the stone.
Finally, she fully opens the box, and the stone is revealed.
All the members, except Sasuke, gasped when they saw the stone. It was beautifully cut into a circular shape. Attached to it was a silver chain with small details engraved into it. Despite its beauty, what caught everyone's attention was the stone itself. Or rather what it wasn't doing.
No glowing, no pulses, just a lifeless, motionless stone stared back at them.
Hinata, once again, had tears in eyes, this time, zero protest was given as they started to fall and run down her cheek.
She begins to cry.
The rest of the girls in Konoha 11 weren't fairing any better. Sakura, also was sobbing next to Sasuke, burying her face in his chest. Ino, had free flowing tears as she stared at a heartbroken Hinata. Tenten wasn't trying her best to be a stable mind and try and comfort Hinata, but soon she too can't stop her tears.
As for the rest of the members, all lowered their heads with a look of sadness in their eyes. Choji, like Ino, didn't really stop the tears from falling. Kiba closed his eyes with also had tears in them, trying desperately to keep them from falling. Akamaru next to him was seen whining, then started to howl. Lee was also crying and was rubbing his eyes to try and stop.
Shino, Shikamaru, and Sasuke were the only ones not crying. Shikamaru only had a face filled with sadness. While Sai didn't really display much emotion, he too showed signs of depression upon realizing Naruto's fate. Sasuke, while trying to comfort Sakura, looked over towards Hinata, who at this point collapsed onto her knees. His face, while also sad, had a look of mourning and acceptance as well.
Shikamaru, looking over at Hinata, decided to try and comfort her. He quickly wiped away a few tears he had, approached Hinata's form and kneeled down to her. Once she saw him there, stopped crying for a moment. He reached out and took the stone in his hand. He looked back at Hinata and stated.
"I remember once, before we went on the mission, that he asked me to assist him in picking out a piece of jewelry. I refused since I myself didn't know much about it, but I did point him in the direction of a store where my mom got her stuff custom made. I guess he had this made for you and was planning something." He stated, causing Hinata to sit up right again.
He continued, "Naruto is a simple, dense, man, but he really cares for those he deems precious, and no offense to Sakura, this is the first time he has EVER tried to by a girl jewelry. You meant something special to him. For his sake and memory, I think it's only best that you try to follow his last words". He finally started, unclipping the chain, causing it to extend to form a necklace.
He hands the necklace to Tenten, who was the closest to Hinata. She nods, grabbing the necklace, and begins to wrap it around Hinata's neck. Once she connected the necklace together, she walked back to the others to admire the jewel.
She wiped away her tears as well. She then spoke in a soft tone, "You know, for a complete idiot, he knew what to get you exactly. It looks stunning on you." She commented, as the rest nodded in agreement.
All the while Hinata was having flashbacks to all of the most important moments she had with Naruto. They came and went with a blur, but the one that stayed in her head, was the first and only kiss she gave him before she teleported away. For once in her life, she had exactly what she wanted.
With wobbly legs, she stands up, straightens her back, looks at the rest of her friends and speaks,
"If there is one thing that Naruto says that I truly believe is his nindo. Crying right now and mourning his death will not do anything. Instead," She grasped the necklace, "we must continue his dream, his legacy, and ensure that a better tomorrow is achievable."
With that morale was once again rising. Soon they made their way back to the Village and reported back to Kakashi. There the message was spread across the nations.
Naruto Uzumaki is dead.
A grand funeral took place 2 weeks after that day. All Kages, and diplomatic leaders arrived to say farewell and pay their respects to the man that did so much for so little in return. For one day, the whole world stopped their activities. No crime, no theft, no murders, no work, no chakra usage, nothing.
All paid respects to Naruto Uzumaki, the kid that wanted to be Hokage.
End Note:
There you have it. Man time sure does fly. I remember when I wrote this, I was so nervous on how people react to my first written work.
I'm glad tha it was well received though. Now it is here to stay! For my new readers, I hope you enjoy the origin of this story. And for my older readers, I hope this was a nice throwback to when my story just came out.
Chapter 12 is in the works as we speak, so please bare with me. Feel free to comment, and provide me feedback/constructive criticism.
Until then, thank you for time and I hope to see you in the next chapter! ^_^