Hello, Hello everyone welcome to Chapter 13. This chapter was a doozy to write mostly cause I needed cut this into two parts as much of I wanted to do would of put this at almost 20,000 words and that just bad for pacing. So here we go, I will say one thing before we move onto the chapter only Naruto used a false name cause at least in world of Naruto (not including that filler arc where some bandit uses Naruto's name.) he is the only one with his name I mean standard protag stuff but he was trying to not reveal himself, and Sasuke never used an alias only his demon counterpart does. With that being said the fight here so lets get to the chapter.
Disclaimer* I do not own either Demon Slayer or Naruto. Demon Slayer Belongs to Koyoharu Gotouge and Naruto is owned by Masashi Kishimoto. Please Support the Official release
"Talk"
'Thought'
Demon Slaying Shinobi
Chapter 13: A Between Demons Part 1
"Yo, Hashira-chan," Indra drawled, his tone dripping with mockery. "Can Naruto come out to play…?"
Shinobu instinctively positioned herself between Indra and the slumbering Naruto, her fingers subtly tightening around the hilt of her hidden blade. The air in the room felt suffocating, weighed down by the overwhelming pressure Indra exuded.
Her expression remained calm, but her mind raced. 'How did he get in without me noticing? I didn't even sense his presence…'
She inhaled quietly, keeping her voice measured. "I don't believe Naruto-kun is interested in playing with someone like you," she said evenly, her usual teasing tone laced with warning. "And you're trespassing. That's quite rude."
Indra chuckled darkly, tilting his head slightly. "Oh? And here I thought you were more fun. You seemed so motherly back there." His gaze flickered to Naruto before returning to her with amusement. "Taking care of him like he's your own child? Cute."
Shinobu's grip on her blade tightened. 'He's trying to provoke me…'
"If you think you will get Naruto-Kun or the Kyūbi, then you will have to get through me!" Shinobu said with a glare as she unsheathed her Blade. 'What can I do? Unlike the Slug and Fox demon we had faced before coming here this demon did not participate in the battle, I am fighting a complete unknown.'
She looked back at the sleeping younger Naruto, unaware of the danger. Shinobu's heart pounded as she shifted her stance, ensuring she was firmly between Indra and the sleeping Naruto. Every instinct told her that this man—this demon—was far beyond anything she had faced before. He was fast, impossibly so, and the air around him crackled with unseen power. Unlike the Slug and Fox demons, this one had observed, waited, and now chose his moment to strike.
Indra let out a slow, amused chuckle, tilting his head as he studied her. "Through you, huh?" His crimson eyes gleamed with an unsettling light. "You're amusing, Hashira-chan. But let's be real…"
In an instant, he vanished.
Shinobu's eyes barely had time to widen before—
CRACK!
A force like a battering ram slammed into her gut, launching her backward. She crashed into the far wall, shattering a wooden cabinet and sending plates and bowls clattering to the floor. Pain flared in her ribs, but she pushed past it, flipping onto her feet.
'Fast—too fast!' she realized, struggling to steady her breathing.
Indra stood exactly where she had been seconds ago, his smirk widening as he slowly turned toward her. "You Hashira are used to fighting low level demons, aren't you? Slow, mindless beasts that rely on brute strength. But me?" His Sharingan spun lazily. "I'm something else entirely."
Shinobu wiped the small trickle of blood from her lip, her grip tightening on her blade. 'His speed is unreal—no, it's more than that. He's reading my movements before I make them.'
Indra took another casual step forward. "You're different from the other humans here, I'll give you that. But even with your fancy poison tricks, what exactly do you think you can do against me?"
Shinobu exhaled slowly. 'Think. I can't overpower him, but I don't need to—I just need one cut.'
With a flicker of movement, she lunged forward.
Indra vanished again.
Her blade struck nothing but air.
Then—
WHAM!
A foot slammed into her back, sending her skidding across the wooden floor. She barely twisted in time to avoid crashing into Naruto's bed, landing on her hands and knees instead.
Indra let out a dramatic sigh. "This is getting boring, Hashira-chan."
'There's no time, I got to get Naruto-kun out of here, and try to signal the others.' Shinobu thought before she swiftly grabbed Naruto and jumped out of the window.
As Shinobu leaped through the window with Naruto cradled in her arms, glass shattered around them, glinting in the moonlight. The cool night air rushed against her skin, but she ignored it, focusing solely on getting away.
'He's too strong! I can't engage him alone!' she thought, her mind racing. Every instinct screamed at her that Indra was playing with her—that he hadn't even begun to take the fight seriously.
Naruto stirred slightly in her grasp, his small body shifting as he groggily opened his eyes. "Mmm… Shinobu-chan…? Wha's… goin' on…?" he mumbled sleepily.
"Shh, Naruto-kun," Shinobu whispered, her voice gentle but firm. "Just hold on, alright? We're going somewhere safe."
Behind her, a low chuckle echoed through the night.
"Oh, Hashira-chan," Indra's voice carried effortlessly, laced with amusement. "Did you really think you could run from me?"
CRACK.
The rooftop collapsed behind her. Indra appeared midair, having driven his foot into the structure with such force that the entire support beam gave way. His Sharingan gleamed like molten embers in the darkness, locked onto them like a predator sighting prey.
'Impossible.' Shinobu's breath hitched. 'He caught up instantly.'
Without hesitation, she twisted in midair, drawing a kunai laced with wisteria poison, and flung it at him. The blade whistled through the air, aimed straight for his heart.
Indra tilted his head slightly.
The kunai missed by mere inches.
Then he was gone.
Shinobu barely had time to react before—BAM!
A sudden force slammed into her ribs, sending her spiraling. The world blurred around her, pain exploding in her side. She barely managed to keep a grip on Naruto as she crashed into a rooftop, rolling across the tiles before digging her heels in to stop.
'He's toying with me.'
Indra landed effortlessly a few meters away, arms crossed. "Tsk, tsk. That wasn't very nice, Hashira-chan," he chided. "Throwing knives? Really? I expected more from you."
Shinobu's fingers twitched as she struggled to regulate her breathing. That last blow hurt. Her ribs were definitely bruised, if not cracked.
Naruto groaned, his small hands clenching her haori as he started waking up. "Shinobu-chan…? Who…?" His eyes widened as they landed on Indra. The intense pressure in the air—the sheer killing intent—froze him.
Shinobu forced herself to her feet, shifting Naruto behind her protectively. She had to signal the others. If she could just buy a little more time…
Indra sighed, tapping his fingers against his bicep. "Tell you what. Hand over the brat, and maybe I won't snap your spine."
Shinobu smiled—but it wasn't warm.
It was deadly.
"I'm afraid that won't be happening."
"Very well." Indra said before moving in for the Kill.
"Dynamic ENTRY!" Suddenly a green blur hit Indra as a Man that had a bowl shaped hair cut, the biggest eyebrows she has ever seen wearing what looked like a Green Outfit with green Flak Jacket over top.
Naruto, now fully awake, blinked in confusion as he clung to Shinobu. "W-Who's that…?" he mumbled, staring at the man in green.
Shinobu, equally bewildered, wasn't sure how to respond. The newcomer radiated an overwhelming presence, his stance exuding confidence and raw power. His odd green jumpsuit, orange leg warmers, and the enormous eyebrows made him unlike any shinobi she had encountered before.
The man straightened, giving a dazzling thumbs-up as his teeth practically sparkled under the moonlight. "Worry not, young one! For I, Might Guy, the Noble Green Beast of Konoha, have arrived to protect you!"
Shinobu felt a sweat drop forming on her temple. 'What… is with this man?'
Indra, now steady on his feet after being sent skidding across the rooftop, dusted himself off with an irritated smirk. "And what do we have here? Another fool getting in my way?" His Sharingan glowed ominously as he observed Guy.
Might Guy's expression hardened as he crossed his arms. "To raise your hand against a child and a lady? That is unacceptable behavior! A true shinobi stands to protect, not to harm!" His eyes burned with passion as he clenched his fists. "That is the true path of youth!"
Naruto stared blankly at him, then looked up at Shinobu. "Is… is he crazy?"
Shinobu didn't answer immediately. 'He's ridiculous… but… there's something about him…'
Indra let out a low chuckle. "Oh? And what exactly do you think you're going to do about it, Green Fool?" His tone was mocking, but Shinobu noticed his posture shift slightly. Even Indra wasn't brushing this man off completely.
Might Guy grinned, his stance deepening, his fingers curling into a perfect fist. "I will show you the flames of youth!"
The air around them shifted.
Indra's smirk faltered.
Then—
Guy disappeared.
A deafening shockwave followed as Indra barely dodged an earth-shattering kick. The sheer force of the strike obliterated the rooftop beneath them, sending tiles flying in all directions. A crater formed where Guy's foot had landed.
Shinobu's eyes widened in astonishment. 'He's fast—no, more than that!'
Indra clicked his tongue, flipping backward into the air, his Sharingan spinning wildly. "Tch… Maybe this will be entertaining after all."
"Lightning Blade!" A bright flash of blue crackled through the air as a second figure appeared in a blur of speed. A streak of lightning illuminated the night, its piercing glow momentarily revealing the astonished expressions on Shinobu and Naruto's faces.
Hatake Kakashi, clad in his standard Jonin attire, lowered his lightning-coated hand slightly as he assessed the situation. His single visible eye flickered from Shinobu, who was shielding Naruto, to the smirking Indra, who now stood several feet away, a faint trail of dust still settling from his quick retreat.
"Kakashi, my eternal rival, you've arrived just in time!" Might Guy declared dramatically, striking a thumbs-up pose as his teeth gleamed under the moonlight.
Kakashi sighed. "I was hoping for a quiet evening, but I should've known you'd be causing a ruckus, Guy." His gaze then settled on Indra, his usually relaxed expression sharpening into one of cold calculation. "But I assume this guy's the real problem?"
Shinobu let out a quiet breath of relief but remained tense. Reinforcements had arrived, but Indra was still unfazed. The way he observed the two Jonin, with that same confident smirk, made it clear he wasn't worried. If anything, he seemed amused.
"Well, well," Indra mused, his Sharingan gleaming ominously. "The infamous Copy Ninja, I was wondering when Konoha's big shots would start showing up." He then chuckled. "Looks like I get to play with more than just the Hashira."
Kakashi ignored the taunt. His fingers twitched near his kunai pouch. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying an edge of authority.
Indra smirked, cracking his neck. "Let's just say I'm someone you won't soon forget."
Might Guy took a fighting stance, his expression serious. "Then allow me to test the depths of your unyouthful wickedness! Kakashi, protect the lady and the boy—I shall engage him first!"
Kakashi sighed again. "You never change, do you, Guy?"
Shinobu tightened her grip on Naruto's shoulders. "Naruto-kun, stay behind me," she whispered.
Naruto, still trying to process everything, nodded but clenched his fists. "Shinobu-chan… I wanna fight too."
She glanced at him, seeing the determination in his young eyes. 'Even at this age… he's already so much like the Naruto I know.' She smiled slightly. "Not yet. Let's leave this to them."
Indra, growing impatient, rolled his shoulders. "Well then… show me what you've got."
Might Guy's stance deepened, and with a deep breath, he whispered, "The first gate… open!"
Might Guy's muscles tensed, his chakra flaring as the first of the Eight Gates unlocked within him. The air around him shifted, as if responding to the surge of power coursing through his body. His normally jovial demeanor faded, replaced by a fierce intensity that made even Indra's smirk falter.
"Now, let's see how your unyouthful arrogance holds up against my fists!" Guy declared, his stance solidifying.
Indra's Sharingan spun as he analyzed the sudden increase in speed and strength radiating from Guy. He had underestimated this one. 'This is different from before… He's restraining himself, but I can feel it. If he goes further, this might actually be a challenge.'
Without hesitation, Guy vanished from sight.
Indra barely had time to register the movement before—
BOOM!
A powerful kick crashed against his forearm as he barely managed to block in time. The sheer force sent shockwaves through the air, cracking the rooftop beneath them. Indra gritted his teeth as he was launched backward, flipping midair to regain his footing. He landed gracefully on another rooftop, his arm tingling from the impact.
Shinobu and Naruto watched in awe from a distance. Shinobu had seen fast opponents before, but the raw speed and precision Guy displayed were beyond anything she had encountered.
"Whoa…" Naruto whispered, his young eyes wide with admiration.
Kakashi remained steady, his gaze fixed on Indra. "Not bad, Guy."
Indra rolled his shoulder, testing the strength of his arm. His smirk returned, though there was a flicker of annoyance beneath it. "I'll admit, you're fast," he mused. "But let's see how long you can keep up."
With a flicker of movement, Indra retaliated.
He shot forward, closing the gap in an instant. Guy met him head-on, their blows colliding in rapid succession. Each strike sent gusts of wind blasting through the rooftops, shaking the structures beneath them. Their figures blurred as they exchanged attacks faster than the eye could follow, forcing Shinobu and Naruto to shield their faces from the sheer force of their battle.
Guy weaved through Indra's counterattacks, launching another devastating kick aimed for his ribs. Indra twisted at the last second, evading by mere inches, before retaliating with a precise jab aimed at Guy's throat.
Guy ducked, countering with an uppercut that Indra narrowly avoided by flipping backward.
Kakashi's eye followed their movements carefully. 'This is dangerous. If this guy has more hidden techniques, Guy might be forced to open more gates… and that would put his life at risk.'
Indra landed on a rooftop, breathing lightly. "This is getting interesting." He cracked his knuckles, his Sharingan still spinning. "But let's step it up, shall we?"
His body flickered.
Guy's eyes sharpened. 'He's going for a serious attack now.'
The moment Indra reappeared, Guy reacted instantly.
"Second Gate… Open!"
A new surge of power erupted around him as his movements became even faster.
Shinobu held onto Naruto tightly as the battlefield escalated. 'I need to find a way to get Naruto-kun to safety while they're focused on each other…'
But Indra, even in the heat of battle, hadn't forgotten about them.
His Sharingan flickered toward their direction for a split second.
A smirk.
Then he vanished.
Shinobu barely had time to react before Indra appeared behind her.
"Did you think I'd forget about you, Hashira-chan?" he whispered.
Before she could move, his hand shot forward—straight for Naruto.
"Beast Breathing Third Fang Devour!" A voice called out as Shinobu knew instantly who just arrived.
Naruto and Sasuke raced through the trees at breakneck speed, the urgency of getting back to the Village weighing heavily on them. The wind howled past their ears as they pushed their bodies to their limits, every second feeling like an eternity. Sasuke stole a quick glance at Naruto, noticing the way his fists were clenched so tightly that his knuckles had turned white.
"Shinobu will be fine. So will the others," Sasuke said firmly, trying to ground his friend's growing anxiety.
Naruto exhaled sharply but kept his gaze forward, his feet never faltering. "I know… but still," he muttered, frustration lacing his tone. "They're most likely fighting a demon version of you."
Sasuke's brows furrowed slightly, but his voice remained level. "You do remember that Kakashi is in the village. And the Third Hokage."
Naruto nodded, but his expression remained tense. "Yeah, I know, but… Kakashi-sensei doesn't have the Mangekyō Sharingan yet."
Sasuke let out a short scoff. "Even if they're fighting a demon version of me, I doubt he'll need it."
Naruto gritted his teeth, his frustration evident. "I'm not underestimating Kakashi-sensei, but you've seen how these demons fight. If this thing is anything like you—" he paused, glancing at Sasuke before continuing, "—then we can't take any chances."
Sasuke remained silent for a moment before finally responding. "Then let's move faster."
Naruto didn't need to be told twice. His chakra surged as he kicked off the branch with renewed force, the leaves and dust swirling in his wake. Sasuke followed right behind him, his Sharingan scanning the horizon.
Indra's gaze flickered to his severed arm, his Sharingan gleaming with cold fury as blood dripped from the wound. Slowly, he turned toward the one responsible, his expression shifting from surprise to a simmering rage.
Inosuke stood tall, his chest heaving with exhilaration, his serrated blades gleaming under the moonlight. His boar mask tilted slightly as he burst into mad laughter. "HA! Did you see that?! I sliced this bastard's arm clean off! Maybe he's not as tough as he looks!" His voice was filled with unrestrained excitement, his body practically vibrating with anticipation.
Naruto, still gripping onto Shinobu's haori, gaped at the wild swordsman in awe and confusion. "W-who is he?" he asked, his voice tinged with both admiration and wariness.
Shinobu, despite the tense situation, offered the young blond a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Naruto-kun," she said softly. "He's a friend."
Naruto blinked, glancing back at Inosuke, who was still cackling and stomping his foot in challenge. "He doesn't… act like a friend," he muttered under his breath.
Meanwhile, Indra exhaled slowly, his rage turning to something more sinister. "You…" he murmured, eyes narrowing. "You're an eyesore."
The blood at his stump began to bubble unnaturally. Dark energy pulsed through the wound, and before their eyes, flesh, sinew, and bone rapidly regrew, reconstructing his arm as if it had never been severed.
Shinobu's breath hitched slightly. 'That Regeneration is even faster than most Upper Moons.'
Naruto's jaw dropped. "That's… so unfair," he grumbled.
Inosuke, however, let out another thrilled laugh. "OHH?! YOU CAN DO THAT TOO?! NOW I REALLY WANNA CUT YOU UP AGAIN!" He crouched low, his muscles tensed like a predator ready to pounce. "Let's see if I can chop it off faster than you can grow it back!"
Indra flexed his newly restored fingers, then clenched his fist, his smirk returning—this time, devoid of amusement. "You're a fool," he stated flatly.
Then he disappeared.
Before Inosuke could react, a devastating force slammed into his stomach.
BOOM!
The impact sent Inosuke flying like a ragdoll, crashing through several rooftops before finally skidding to a brutal stop, coughing up blood. Yet, even as he lay there, he let out a wheezing chuckle. "Heh… not bad…"
Naruto swallowed hard, eyes darting between Inosuke's downed form and Indra, who now turned his gaze back toward them.
Shinobu immediately stepped in front of Naruto again, gripping her blade tightly.
Indra rolled his shoulders, seemingly unbothered. "Now… where were we?"
Guy stepped in front of Shinobu, his stance firm and unwavering. His presence alone felt like a shield, radiating an intensity that seemed to defy the oppressive weight of Indra's power.
Shinobu coughed into her hand, a small but telling splatter of blood staining her palm. She had taken more damage than she initially let on, and Naruto noticed immediately. His eyes widened in concern.
"Shinobu-chan!" Naruto reached for her, but she gave him a reassuring smile, though it was slightly strained.
"I'm fine, Naruto-kun," she whispered, straightening despite the pain lacing through her body. 'I have to be. There's no room for weakness here.'
Guy, however, didn't take his eyes off Indra. His normally bright and enthusiastic expression had faded into something far more serious.
"You've harmed a boy, and now you threaten a child," he said, his voice low but filled with restrained fury. "I cannot allow this to continue."
Indra smirked. "And what do you plan to do about it?"
Guy took a deep breath, and in an instant, his chakra flared, sending waves of pressure through the air.
"The Third Gate… Gate of Life… OPEN!"
A burst of emerald energy erupted around him, the sheer force cracking the stone beneath his feet. The veins around his temples bulged, his skin turning a deep red as his power surged.
Naruto felt his breath hitch. The very air seemed to tremble under the sheer force of Guy's strength.
Shinobu, despite her injuries, watched in awe. 'Such raw power… This is completely different from anything I've ever seen.'
Indra's smirk faltered for the first time.
In the next instant, Guy disappeared.
A thunderous BOOM followed as he reappeared, his fist connecting with Indra's gut.
Indra's eyes widened as the impact sent him flying like a comet, crashing through multiple buildings before finally coming to a violent stop, debris scattering in all directions.
Guy exhaled sharply, standing tall as his aura burned around him.
"That was for the young swordsman," he declared.
Naruto's jaw nearly hit the floor. "T-that was awesome!"
Shinobu, steadying herself, nodded in agreement. "His power… it's truly remarkable."
But then—
From the rubble, dark energy pulsed.
Indra stood up, cracking his neck.
He wiped the blood from his lip and rolled his shoulders, his crimson Sharingan glowing with renewed malice.
"Well… now you've got my attention." Suddenly a red skeletal being appeared around Indra as he smirked.
Guy's fiery aura flickered against the eerie crimson glow of Indra's Susanoo as the towering skeletal entity loomed over them. Its sinister energy pulsed through the air, making the battlefield feel suffocating. The once cocky amusement on Indra's face had morphed into something colder—calculating.
Kakashi's sharp gaze flicked between Indra and Guy. "Guy, we need to fall back," he ordered, his tone calm but urgent.
Guy, still in his stance, glanced at Kakashi. "Kakashi, you know that's not my style," he said with a grin, but there was no humor in his voice.
Kakashi narrowed his eye. "I know, but listen—this isn't just about winning. We need to protect them." His gaze shifted momentarily to Naruto and Shinobu, both watching with tense anticipation.
Shinobu, gripping her sword tightly, barely managed to steady her breathing. 'That technique of his… it's like that demon Naruto-kun and I faced, when we first met.' Her mind raced through possible countermeasures, but nothing she had in her arsenal—no poisons, no precise strikes—would be enough to shatter that thing.
Naruto clenched his fists. He could feel the sheer power radiating from Indra, something he had never witnessed before, but something deep inside him stirred—an instinct, a familiarity—as if a part of him recognized the overwhelming presence before them.
Indra rolled his newly healed arm, letting out a satisfied sigh. "I must say, that actually hurt," he mused, his Sharingan gleaming. His Susanoo shifted behind him, the massive skeletal hand flexing with ease. "But it won't happen again."
The ground shook as the Susanoo took a step forward.
Kakashi exhaled sharply. He already knew—they were at a disadvantage.
Guy nodded, reading his longtime rival's silent cue. "Fine," he muttered, his muscles still tense with youthful energy. "But I'm not leaving without a parting gift."
BOOM!
In an instant, Guy vanished, his movements now beyond human comprehension. Before Indra could react, another devastating kick connected—this time against the Susanoo's ribs. The sheer force sent a resounding shockwave through the battlefield, cracking the very air itself.
For the first time, Indra winced.
Naruto's eyes widened. "He… he actually hurt it?!"
The Susanoo staggered slightly, but it held firm.
Indra growled under his breath, his smirk disappearing. "Annoying pest," he muttered before his Susanoo's massive hand swung forward with terrifying speed.
"Guy, move!" Kakashi called.
But before Indra's attack could land—
A water projectile cut through the air, colliding with the Susanoo's arm and sending it off course.
Indra's eyes flicked to the side, his expression shifting into mild surprise. "What now—"
A figure landed between them, a long black nichirin blade dripping with water as he moved to make another attack.
"Water Breathing Tenth Form: Constant Flux." Tanjiro yelled out as he sent the Susanoo's arm away.
"Tanjiro-Kun?!" Shinobu said as Tanjiro ran up to her with Zenitsu and a reawakened Inosuke.
"Shinobu-san are you ok?" Tanjiro asked in concern.
"Don't worry about me-" Shinobu began as Indra came forward with the Susanoo when suddenly Nezuko jumped out of Tanjiro's box and kicked Indra away.
Indra crashed through a ruined wall, his Susanoo flickering slightly from the sudden force of Nezuko's kick. Dust and debris scattered in the air as he stabilized himself midair, his crimson Sharingan locking onto her with cold disdain.
Nezuko landed gracefully, her sharp claws twitching, fangs bared, and her burning pink eyes narrowed.
Tanjiro's grip tightened around his sword. "Nezuko!"
She let out a sharp, determined growl, positioning herself between Indra and the others.
Indra exhaled sharply, annoyance flickering in his gaze. "Damn it. I forgot Shingen told us that Kamado drags that failed excuse of a demon sister around." His tone was laced with contempt. "What an eyesore."
Nezuko huffed, unfazed by his words.
Tanjiro's expression darkened. "Don't you dare speak about Nezuko like that." His voice was firm, unwavering.
Indra's smirk returned, amused by Tanjiro's resolve. "Oh? And what are you going to do about it, boy?"
Tanjiro didn't answer immediately. Instead, he stepped forward, his breathing slow and controlled. His eyes reflected nothing but sheer determination.
"Tanjiro-Kun." Shinobu said, gaining Tanjiro's Attention. "I need you and the others to get Naruto-kun out of here."
Tanjiro looked at Shinobu. "But Shinobu-san, we can't leave you behind."
"Naruto-kun safety trumps everything you know this." Shinobu said with a pained glare.
"Kid, I'd do what she asks, don't worry, we'll watch over her." Kakashi said with an eye smile.
Tanjiro hesitated, his fingers tightening around his blade. He could feel the weight of Shinobu's words, the urgency in her tone. Leaving her behind didn't sit right with him. But deep down, he knew she was right. Naruto had to be protected.
"But—" he started, his voice filled with resistance.
"Tanjiro, don't argue, just go!" Shinobu snapped, her usually calm voice carrying a rare sharpness. The pain in her gaze was evident, but so was her resolve.
Naruto, who had been gripping the hem of Shinobu's haori, gritted his teeth. "No! I can fight too! I can—"
Shinobu knelt in front of him, gently placing a hand on his head. "Naruto-kun, listen to me. I need you to be safe. That's the most important thing right now."
Naruto swallowed hard, his small fists trembling. He hated this. He hated feeling weak.
Kakashi placed a hand on Tanjiro's shoulder. "Go. We'll watch over her."
Tanjiro looked at Kakashi, then at Guy, who stood beside him, his aura still radiating fierce determination.
Even Inosuke, despite his usual headstrong nature, clicked his tongue in irritation but didn't protest.
Zenitsu, who had been shaking since Indra activated his Susanoo, gulped and gave a stiff nod.
Tanjiro looked back at Shinobu, his heart twisting in his chest. Then he exhaled sharply, forcing himself to turn away. "Alright. Let's go."
Nezuko growled softly but obeyed, stepping back toward Tanjiro's side.
Shinobu's expression softened for just a moment. "I believe in you, Naruto-kun."
And with that, Tanjiro, Naruto, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke took off, disappearing into the darkness.
Indra, who had been watching silently, let out a sigh. "Sending the weaklings away? That's fine. I'll just kill them later." His Sharingan flared dangerously as he refocused on those who remained.
Kakashi's eye narrowed. "You talk too much."
Guy clenched his fists, his energy rising once more. "Shall we begin round two?"
Shinobu wiped the blood from her lip, standing tall.
Indra smirked. "Let's."
"We shouldn't have left her behind!" the younger Naruto protested, his voice filled with frustration as Tanjiro dragged him along the rooftops.
Tanjiro gritted his teeth, his heart weighing heavy with the decision. "I know!" he snapped, but his grip on Naruto didn't falter. "But we have to trust Shinobu-san and the others! Right now, we need to keep moving!"
Naruto struggled against Tanjiro's hold, his small fists clenched. "I'm not weak! I could've fought too! If we all stayed—"
"Then we all would've died!" Zenitsu suddenly yelled, his voice laced with rare urgency. "Did you see that thing?! That monster?! We barely even scratched him!"
Nezuko let out a soft growl of agreement, staying close to Tanjiro's side, her eyes sharp as she kept a watchful gaze on their surroundings.
Inosuke, who had been eerily quiet since being thrown aside by Indra earlier, suddenly grabbed Naruto by the collar, yanking him toward him.
"Listen up, brat!" Inosuke growled, his tone unusually serious. "That freak wasn't even trying. He played with us like we were nothing! You wanna go back and die? HUH?! 'Cause that's what would've happened!"
Naruto stiffened, his breath hitching.
Tanjiro placed a firm hand on Inosuke's shoulder, silently signaling him to back off. Inosuke huffed but let Naruto go.
Taking a deep breath, Tanjiro knelt in front of Naruto, looking him straight in the eyes. "I know you want to help. I know it hurts to run. But you have to survive, Naruto-san. We have to get stronger first. If we go back now, we'll only make things worse for them."
Naruto's eyes burned with frustration, his nails digging into his palms. "I hate this…" he muttered.
Tanjiro smiled softly, though it was tinged with sadness. "I know."
Naruto bit his lip, trembling with anger and helplessness. But he didn't fight anymore.
Zenitsu let out a relieved sigh. "Good, because if we stopped running, I was gonna pass out from sheer terror."
"Tch, don't be such a coward, Yellow-Baka." Inosuke crossed his arms.
"I'm being realistic!" Zenitsu snapped. "I value my life, thank you very much!"
Tanjiro stood, his expression hardening. "We have to trust them. But we also have to be ready. We are not out of the woods yet and Urashiki may be close."
Zenitsu, however, looked like he was about to pass out. "Oh crap, I forgot about that Ōtsutsuki guy! That freak is still out there?!" He dramatically clutched his head. "Oh, we are all gonna die young, starting with me!"
Inosuke smacked Zenitsu upside the head. "Then stop screaming! If that freak is close, you're leading him right to us, you yellow-bellied moron!"
Zenitsu flailed in panic. "T-That's easy for you to say! You're the one who rushed at that demon like a madman! Oh wait—you are a madman!"
Inosuke grinned under his boar mask. "Damn right! And I'd do it again!"
Tanjiro sighed, rubbing his temple. "Enough. We don't have time for this." He looked at Nezuko, who remained alert, her pink eyes scanning the area. "Nezuko, do you sense anything?"
Nezuko sniffed the air before shaking her head, though her tense posture made it clear she wasn't convinced they were safe.
Naruto finally spoke, his voice quieter than before. "So… where do we go now?"
Tanjiro straightened. "Somewhere hidden. We can't go back to the village, not yet."
Zenitsu paled even further. "Not the forest! It's always the forest! That's where monsters lurk in the dark, and people like me—the most handsome and promising ones—always die first!"
Inosuke scoffed. "Then hurry up and be useful, or I'll feed you to whatever's out there first!"
Zenitsu whimpered.
Naruto, still walking beside Tanjiro, suddenly muttered, "Who are you people?" His small fists clenched at his sides as he lowered his gaze. "Why is that guy after me? Why is everyone always after me?"
Tanjiro slowed his pace, glancing at the young blond. The raw pain in Naruto's voice struck something deep within him.
He wanted to tell him the truth. To explain why Indra and Urashiki sought him, why the village looked at him with such coldness, why his life had always been one of struggle. But he couldn't.
If Naruto learned about the Kyūbi too soon, if he found out about his burden now, it could alter the course of events—the future Tanjiro had no right to change.
So instead, he placed a firm, reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder and smiled softly.
"Don't worry, Naruto-kun," he said, his voice steady. "We will make sure no one hurts you."
Naruto looked up at him, his blue eyes searching for something—doubt, maybe, or a reason to believe him. For a moment, he hesitated, then slowly nodded.
"…Okay."
Tanjiro exhaled softly, relieved. 'For now, this is enough. But one day, Naruto-san, you'll learn the truth—on your own terms.'
Nezuko, who had been quietly watching, let out a soft, reassuring hum, stepping closer to Naruto's side.
Naruto blinked at her, confused. "Huh? What is it?"
Nezuko just patted his head gently, a silent gesture of comfort.
Naruto pouted, swatting at her hand. "Hey! I'm not a kid!"
Nezuko let out a tiny amused grunt, clearly unfazed by his protests.
Tanjiro chuckled lightly at the scene, while even Zenitsu, despite his usual paranoia, managed a small smile.
"Seriously, knock it off. Dattebayo!" Naruto grumbled, glaring at Nezuko as she continued to rub his head.
Nezuko's expression remained as calm as ever, but her persistent pats didn't stop. It was almost as if she was instinctively trying to soothe him.
Tanjiro's eyes softened as he watched the interaction. 'Nezuko…' he thought, realization dawning on him. 'She's doing what she used to do with our younger siblings whenever they were upset.'
Naruto, however, wasn't as touched by the moment. He grumbled under his breath, face turning slightly red as he tried once again to escape her persistent head pats. "I said stop it!"
Nezuko merely tilted her head, letting out a soft, amused huff.
Tanjiro smiled warmly. "She's just trying to comfort you, Naruto-san."
Naruto huffed, crossing his arms. "Tch. I don't need comforting! I can handle myself just fine!"
"Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, runt." Inosuke snickered from behind, grinning widely beneath his boar mask. "You look like a baby getting coddled by his mom!"
Naruto immediately spun on him, fists clenched. "Say that again, you boar-headed moron!"
"Ohhhh, what? You gonna cry about it?!" Inosuke taunted, leaning in closer.
Zenitsu sighed dramatically. "You should just accept it, Naruto. Nezuko-chan's affection is unavoidable. There is no escape."
Naruto shot him a glare. "You're one to talk, you simp!"
Zenitsu gasped in horror. "How dare you call me that in front of Nezuko-chaaaaan!"
Tanjiro sighed as the group kept moving, not noticing Urashiki smirking above them.
Indra's eyes flickered with irritation as he took in the growing number of Konoha shinobi surrounding him. His Sharingan gleamed under the moonlight, analyzing every movement, every breath, every potential attack.
"Tch," he scoffed, rolling his shoulders. "I didn't think this many ants would crawl out of the woodwork so soon."
Shinobu winced, her body aching from the accumulated damage, but she refused to let it show on her face. She kept her blade raised, watching Indra closely. 'This pressure… He's still barely trying. Even with all these shinobi, we're at a disadvantage.'
Kakashi, standing at the forefront, kept his gaze locked onto Indra, his Sharingan eye carefully studying him. "It's over. If you surrender now, we won't be forced to kill you."
Indra let out a low chuckle, amused by the statement. "Kill me?" His smirk widened, his Sharingan spinning lazily. "Tell me, Hatake, do you actually believe that? Or are you just trying to keep your troops from pissing themselves?"
Kakashi remained silent, his expression unreadable, but internally, his mind was racing. 'This guy… He's probably on par with the Shodaime-sama or Uchiha Madara. Even with all of us, I don't think we can actually do anything against him.'
Indra extended his arm outward, and his crimson Susanoo expanded, its skeletal form twisting into a more refined shape. The sheer force of its presence sent waves of pressure through the battlefield, shaking the ground beneath them.
Many of the Konoha shinobi instinctively took a step back, their nerves betraying them.
Shinobu's grip on her blade tightened. 'No… this is bad. His strength, his speed, his reflexes—this isn't just an ordinary demon or even an Upper-Moon Demon. This is something far worse.'
Indra glanced around at the assembled shinobi, his smirk turning razor-sharp. "You want me to surrender? Fine." He extended his hand as if offering himself up—before his fingers curled into a mocking gesture. "Come and take me."
Then he vanished.
Shinobu's breath hitched— too fast!
Kakashi barely had time to react before— BOOM!
A shinobi to his right was sent flying, blood spraying into the air as Indra reappeared where the man once stood, his arm dripping with fresh crimson.
The Konoha shinobi scattered, leaping into action.
"FALL BACK!" Kakashi commanded, his instincts screaming at him.
Indra's smile widened. "Good. Struggle for me a little longer." He dashed toward Kakashi, his Sharingan gleaming with malicious excitement.
Just as Kakashi prepared to counter—
"Rasengan!"
A voice roared through the battlefield, and in a yellow flash, Naruto suddenly appeared right in front of Indra, catching everyone off guard.
Before Indra could react, Naruto slammed his Rasengan directly into his chest, sending a shockwave through the battlefield as the impact sent the demon skidding backward.
Shinobu, despite her injuries, felt a sense of relief wash over her. 'Naruto-kun… You made it back.' A small smile graced her lips.
Kakashi's visible eye widened as he took in the sight of the blond-haired shinobi standing before him. 'Minato-sensei?!' His mind reeled at the uncanny resemblance.
Naruto turned his head slightly, his eyes locking onto Shinobu. "Shinobu-chan, are you okay?"
Shinobu exhaled softly, nodding as she wiped a bit of blood from her lip. "A bit worse for wear," she admitted, "but we managed to get the younger you away from the battle. Tanjiro-kun is with him."
Kakashi's mind raced. 'Younger version? What are they talking about?' His gaze flickered between Naruto and Shinobu before settling on the blond. 'And why does he look so much like Minato-sensei?'
A low growl echoed in Naruto's mind as Kurama's voice rumbled. "Naruto, that demon—"
'I know, Kurama,' Naruto responded, shifting into a battle stance. 'His Sharingan—it's the normal Mangekyō, not an evolved one like Sasuke's.'
Kurama let out a thoughtful hum. "Then it's safe to assume that this demon version of Sasuke is not as strong as we first thought."
Naruto exhaled sharply, his blue eyes narrowing at Indra, who had begun to recover from the Rasengan strike.
"Maybe not," Naruto muttered, tightening his grip on his Nichirin Sword and Kunai, "but he's still dangerous."
Indra, brushing dust off his torn cloak, let out a dark chuckle. "Interesting," he mused, his Sharingan still spinning wildly. "You're faster than I expected." His smirk widened. "But let's see if you can keep up."
With a flicker, he disappeared.
Naruto's eyes sharpened. 'Here he comes!'
Indra rushed forward, his Susanoo materializing around him in an instant, forming a massive arm that swung down toward Naruto with devastating force.
'This is bad I got to get the Hawk Demon away from the Village before more is destroyed.' Naruto thought as he dodged the blow he briefly looked towards Shinobu as she start to lose consciousness. 'Shinobu-chan!'
Naruto's heart pounded as he saw Shinobu sway, her strength failing her. 'Dammit, I can't let her fall now!'
With a burst of golden chakra, he vanished in a Yellow Flash, appearing beside her just in time to catch her before she collapsed.
"Shinobu-chan, stay with me!" Naruto urged, his arms tightening around her.
Her violet eyes fluttered open briefly, struggling to focus on his face. "Naruto-kun… I'm fine," she whispered weakly, though her breathing was shallow.
He clenched his jaw, furious at himself for not arriving sooner. 'No, you're not fine… and this battlefield isn't where you should be right now.'
Indra's booming laughter echoed behind them. "How touching," the demon sneered, his crimson eyes gleaming with malice. "You still have time to worry about others when I'm right here?"
Naruto gritted his teeth, forcing himself to focus. 'Kurama, we need to get Shinobu to safety, then I'll take this bastard away from the village.'
Kurama's deep voice rumbled in agreement. "Then quit wasting time. Get moving!"
Without hesitation, Naruto gathered his chakra, forming a Rasengan in one hand while holding Shinobu securely with the other. "Kakashi-sensei! Take her and fall back!"
Kakashi, still trying to process everything, snapped to attention as Naruto flashed behind him, placing Shinobu in his arms.
"Take care of her, and don't let her fight anymore," Naruto ordered, his voice firm. "She's done enough."
Kakashi hesitated but nodded, catching the determined look in Naruto's eyes. "Understood. Be careful."
Naruto turned back to Indra, his Tailed Beast Cloak flaring violently around him. The battlefield trembled as his aura surged.
Indra tilted his head with a smug smirk. "Finally ready to stop running?"
Naruto's blue eyes burned with resolve. "Oh, I'm not running," he growled. "I'm taking this fight somewhere you won't destroy innocent lives."
With a single blink, he disappeared in a golden flash—grabbing Indra by the collar and teleporting the both of them miles away from the village.
As the blinding golden light of Naruto's Flying Thunder God technique faded, the battlefield around them had changed drastically.
Naruto and Indra now stood atop a vast, desolate canyon, the roaring wind whipping through the rocky cliffs. The land stretched for miles, devoid of life—the perfect battleground to go all out.
Indra's crimson Sharingan gleamed in the dim Moonlight. His lips curled into a dark smirk as he shook off Naruto's grip, brushing the dust from his torn cloak. "How interesting… You really think isolating me will make a difference?"
Naruto clenched his fists, his chakra radiating like a golden wildfire. This fight was going to be brutal.
"You won't be able to hide behind innocent people now," Naruto shot back, his eyes sharp. "You and me, one-on-one. No distractions."
Indra's laughter was cold and sharp. "Hmph. A noble sentiment," he mused, his Mangekyō Sharingan spinning wildly. "But you're mistaken if you think I needed them to win."
A pulse of dark energy exploded from Indra's body, warping the air around him. His Susanoo, now fully formed, rose behind him—a towering entity of Crimson energy, its massive wings extending outward like the wings of a demon.
Naruto gritted his teeth, summoning Kurama's full power, golden chakra flaring around him as his Tailed Beast Mode roared to life.
"Let's go, Kurama!" Naruto shouted.
BOOM!
In an instant, the two clashed.
Naruto dashed forward with blinding speed, summoning a Rasenshuriken infused with Nature Energy. He launched it at Indra, the air screaming as it tore through the battlefield.
Indra's Susanoo slashed forward, cutting the attack in half. The explosion erupted, shaking the entire canyon, but Indra remained untouched within his ethereal armor.
"I expected more," Indra mocked, his eyes burning with amusement. "Now, let me show you true destruction!"
With a single command, his Susanoo raised its bow, forming a crackling black arrow wreathed in flames of Amaterasu.
Naruto's eyes widened. 'Damn! That's—!'
Indra let the arrow fly.
The air itself split apart, the sheer force creating a deafening shockwave as the projectile screamed toward Naruto with the power to annihilate an entire city.
"Kurama, now!"
Kurama's eyes blazed. "On it!"
A massive Tailed Beast Bomb formed in front of Naruto, its dark energy humming with overwhelming destruction. With a roar, he fired it at the incoming arrow.
The two attacks collided.
The explosion was cataclysmic. The very sky ripped apart, the ground splitting open from the violent clash of power. Rocks shattered, winds howled, and a dome of golden and black flames engulfed the canyon in a chaotic inferno.
Naruto barely had time to react before Indra appeared behind him, a lightning-coated blade emerging from his hand.
"Heavenly Spear!"
Naruto twisted just in time, raising his Kunai to block, but the sheer force sent him crashing through the canyon walls.
Indra's smirk widened. "Not bad."
Naruto emerged from the rubble, wiping blood from his lip, his blue eyes filled with fiery determination.
"I've dealt with bigger bastards than you," Naruto growled, golden chains beginning to wrap around his arms. "So if you think I'm going down easy…"
His Rasengan began to shift, growing larger, denser, more unstable—a Super Tailed Beast Rasengan, crackling with a mix of Kurama's energy and Six Paths power.
"…Then you've got another thing coming!"
A large explosion was felt in the distance causing Tanjiro and the others to get knocked on their feet.
"What was that?" Zenitsu asked terrified as Inosuke looked back in the direction of the Village.
"Donno sounds like that demon freak not in the Village anymore." Inosuke said as Tanjiro sniffed the air.
"You're right I don't smell the demon anymore, did it run away."
The younger Naruto latched onto Nezuko. "What does that mean?"
Tanjiro looked at the younger Naruto as he sighed. "That means we shouldn't move any farther just so Shinobu-san can find us."
"I hope she is ok." Naruto said as Tanjiro looked to the nine-year old boy as Nezuko started to pat his head.
Tanjiro kneeled down to the young blond. "She'll be okay. Shinobu-san is super strong, you know."
'Tanjiro.' Zenitsu thought before shaking his fear. "Yeah she'll be fine and she was with that weird green wearing guy and that one guy that looked like a scarecrow."
"I guess you're right, pervy swordsman." Naruto said, causing Zenitsu to look at as Naruto gave him a cold stare.
Zenitsu nearly choked on his own breath. "PERVY SWORDSMAN?!" he screeched, pointing a shaky finger at the younger Naruto. "What kind of slander is this?! Who's been telling you these horrible lies?!"
Naruto continued to stare at him unblinkingly, his arms crossed as he clung to Nezuko's sleeve. "You keep acting weird around Nezuko-chan," he muttered. "It's kinda gross."
Inosuke immediately burst out laughing so hard he had to clutch his sides. "PFFFFT! PERVY SWORDSMAN! THAT'S EVEN WORSE THAN SIMP!" He practically fell to the ground, howling. "THE LITTLE BRAT CAN SEE THE TRUTH! HE'S CALLING YOU OUT!"
Zenitsu looked utterly betrayed, turning to Tanjiro in desperation. "Tanjiro! Say something! Save my honor!" His voice cracked, his entire soul leaving his body at this humiliation.
Tanjiro sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "Well… Zenitsu, you do act a little—um—excitable around Nezuko," he admitted, his voice careful.
Zenitsu gasped dramatically, as if the world had ended. "Et tu, Tanjiro?!" He fell to his knees. "I can't believe this… I am being slandered by a nine-year-old!"
Nezuko, completely oblivious to Zenitsu's suffering, continued gently patting Naruto's head, looking rather pleased with the younger blond.
Naruto's cold stare remained locked onto Zenitsu, his judgment absolute. "Just saying what I see," he muttered.
Inosuke slapped Zenitsu's shoulder so hard he nearly fell over. "Face it, Thunder Wimp! Even the tiny blonde knows you're a creep! AH-HAHAHA!"
Zenitsu groaned into his hands. "This is the worst day of my life…"
Tanjiro, though amused, still felt a pit of unease in his stomach. The explosions had stopped for now, but the battle was still far from over.
"Man must be some joke, mind if I hear it?" A Voice called out as Tanjiro froze as he turned to see Urashiki floating above them with his Byakugan pulsing.
"Urashiki!" Tanjiro yelled out as he drew out his sword.
"GREAT I KNEW THAT HORNED GUY WOULD SHOW UP, Why me!" Zenitsu cried out in fear.
Tanjiro ignored his fellow demon slayer as he glared at the Ōtsutsuki. "We won't let you take Naruto-san!"
"Oh and Pray tell how are you gonna do that?" Urashiki before he felt something pull him away.
"Almighty Pull." A voice yelled out causing everyone to look to see Sasuke standing there, his right arm raised as his Sharingan and Rinnesharingan Flared.
Urashiki barely had time to react before Sasuke's Almighty Pull yanked him violently through the air. His smirk vanished as he was suddenly dragged forward with incredible force, his body unable to resist the gravitational pull.
"Chidori!"
Sasuke's hand crackled with lightning, his Rinnegan flaring with lethal intent as he shot forward like a dark streak of death.
Urashiki's Byakugan flared, and at the last second, he twisted his body to dodge. Sasuke's Chidori barely missed his head, instead slicing through part of Urashiki's robe, leaving a deep gash in the fabric.
Urashiki flipped midair and landed on his feet, skidding across the ground as his expression twisted into mild annoyance.
"Well, well," Urashiki muttered, adjusting his sleeve as he examined Sasuke with intrigue. "The last Uchiha… or rather, the one who always gets in my way." He smirked again, though there was a hint of irritation behind it. "How delightful and here I thought you would have gone with the older Naruto to take care of the demon Version of you. But alas it seems poor Indra did not want to wait for me. Talk about striking out in the allies department."
Sasuke's eyes narrowed, his Sharingan and Rinnegan fixated on Urashiki. "Naruto can handle the Hawk Demon just fine," he retorted, his voice cold and steady. "You're the bigger threat here."
Urashiki's smirk widened, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Oh, is that so?" he mused, his tone dripping with mockery. "And what makes you think you can stop me, Uchiha Sasuke?"
Before Sasuke could respond, Tanjiro stepped forward, his sword gleaming in the dim light. "We won't let you lay a finger on Naruto-san," he declared, determination burning in his gaze.
Zenitsu, despite his trembling, moved to stand beside Tanjiro, his own sword drawn. "Y-yeah! We're not afraid of you!" he stammered, trying to mask his fear with bravado.
Inosuke brandished his dual blades, a wild grin spreading across his face beneath his boar mask. "Bring it on, you horned freak!" he shouted, eager for the fight.
Urashiki chuckled, clearly entertained by their defiance. "How quaint," he said, his Byakugan eyes glinting ominously. "But do you really think you stand a chance against me?"
Without warning, he flicked his wrist, and a chakra rod materialized in his hand, extending rapidly toward the group. Sasuke reacted instantly, intercepting the attack with his sword, sparks flying as the two forces clashed.
"Stay back!" Sasuke ordered the others, his voice firm. "This one's mine."
But Tanjiro shook his head, his grip tightening on his weapon. "We fight together," he insisted. "That's the only way we'll win."
Urashiki's laughter echoed through the clearing. "Very well," he said, his tone laced with anticipation. "Let's see what you're capable of."
"Tanjiro… This is no time to argue." Sasuke said as he kept his eyes is on Urashiki. "Handling him is something only Naruto and I can handle."
Tanjiro gritted his teeth, gripping his sword tighter. "I understand that you and Naruto-san are strong," he admitted, his voice firm, "but we can't just stand back and do nothing! If we work together, we have a chance!"
Sasuke didn't look at him, his Rinnegan still fixated on Urashiki, tracking even the slightest movement. His voice was colder than before. "This isn't about teamwork," he said. "This is about winning. You saw how he moves. If you get in the way, you'll only slow me down."
Tanjiro flinched slightly, but he didn't back down.
Urashiki, amused by the argument, simply smirked. "Oh, by all means, please continue debating strategy. I can wait," he mocked, twirling the chakra rod in his hand lazily.
Zenitsu, still gripping his sword tightly, swallowed hard. "L-Look, I don't wanna die, but… I think we should listen to Sasuke-san. That guy is… terrifying."
"HAH?!" Inosuke shouted, stepping forward aggressively. "SO WHAT?! STRONG OR NOT, I'M NOT GONNA SIT BACK AND WATCH WHILE THE EYEBALL FREAK DOES ALL THE WORK!" He pointed his dual blades at Urashiki. "I SAY WE KILL HIM NOW!"
Urashiki tilted his head, his grin widening. "Oho? Please, do try."
Sasuke's patience snapped. "Enough." His chakra surged, and before anyone could react—
His Rinnegan flared.
Amenotejikara.
In an instant, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke were teleported several meters back, away from the battlefield.
Tanjiro's eyes widened as the world shifted around him. "Wha—?!"
Before he could move, Sasuke flicked his wrist, sending out a burst of chakra-infused force, pushing them even farther.
"Stay out of this."
Tanjiro stumbled but caught himself, his heart pounding.
Sasuke finally turned his head slightly toward them, his expression unreadable. "If you fight, you die." His eyes narrowed. "Naruto wouldn't forgive me if I let you throw your lives away."
Urashiki chuckled. "How touching," he mused. "But enough stalling."
With a sudden burst of speed, Urashiki rushed Sasuke, his chakra rod extending for a lethal strike.
Sasuke vanished.
In the blink of an eye, he was already behind Urashiki, his blade flashing toward the Ōtsutsuki's neck.
Urashiki smirked, twisting just in time, his Byakugan tracking Sasuke's movements perfectly.
Naruto gritted his teeth, weaving through the air inside his Kurama Avatar, dodging each of Indra's relentless attacks. The Crimson Perfect Susanoo soared above, its blade carving through the sky like a god of destruction. Each swing sent crimson shockwaves tearing through the land, obliterating mountains and splitting open the battlefield.
Naruto barely managed to twist midair, dodging another massive Susanoo slash that sent a burning energy arc ripping through the ground, leaving behind a scorched, bottomless trench.
"Damn it," Naruto muttered as he steadied himself, his golden chakra avatar shimmering against the night sky. "His demon abilities are strengthening his Sharingan. So he doesn't even need to evolve it further."
Kurama growled inside him. "Which means he's already at his peak. His reaction time is off the charts, and his attacks are getting stronger."
Naruto clenched his fists. Indra's Sharingan was unlike anything he had ever faced before. It wasn't just the power of the Uchiha—it was something twisted, something inhuman.
He had no room for error.
Indra hovered above, his crimson Susanoo's wings pulsing with raw energy, its massive bow forming once again.
Naruto's eyes narrowed.
"What's worse—" he muttered, his mind racing. "The only way we can kill the Hawk Demon is either taking his head off with my blade or waiting and holding him here till morning comes."
Kurama scoffed. "You really think you can hold him off that long? He's getting stronger by the second."
Naruto exhaled sharply. He knew Kurama was right.
Then, suddenly—
A flicker of chakra.
Naruto felt it.
Sasuke's chakra.
Far away—but unmistakably alive and burning.
Naruto's heart pounded. "Sasuke must've found Urashiki."
For a moment, his mind split into two battles.
One here. One there.
But he had no choice.
If Indra wasn't stopped now, everything else would be meaningless.
Indra smirked, his crimson eyes gleaming.
"Distracted again?" His demonic voice echoed, layered with something inhuman.
Naruto's pupils dilated.
Indra vanished.
Naruto's instincts screamed—
"Damn it—!"
BOOM!
A colossal fist slammed into Naruto's Kurama Avatar, sending it plummeting toward the ground like a meteor. The shockwave shattered the earth, sending mountains crumbling into dust.
Naruto coughed as he struggled back to his feet, his Kurama cloak flickering, but still holding.
Indra hovered above, his Susanoo blade burning with dark flames.
"This is where you die, Naruto."
Naruto wiped the blood from his lip, his eyes burning with renewed fury.
"You wish."
Naruto roared, pushing forward with all his might, his Kurama Avatar slamming into Indra's Crimson Perfect Susanoo with enough force to crack the very sky. The collision sent shockwaves rippling across the battlefield, the sheer impact shattering the remains of the land beneath them.
Indra's smirk faltered for the first time as his massive Susanoo staggered back, the unexpected force catching him off guard.
"What?!"
Naruto didn't let up. His chakra claws gripped onto the Susanoo's armor, golden energy flaring violently as he began to push Indra back, step by step.
"I'm not letting you destroy anything else!" Naruto bellowed, his eyes burning with an unshakable resolve. His Kurama Avatar's tails lashed out, wrapping around the Susanoo's arm and holding it in place.
Kurama's voice boomed inside Naruto's mind. "Don't let him regain control! Keep the pressure on!"
Naruto tightened his grip, his muscles tensing as he summoned more power from Kurama.
Indra snarled, his crimson eyes flashing with fury.
"You think brute force is enough?" His voice reverberated with something ancient and malevolent. "Foolish."
With a sharp movement, Indra's Susanoo wings flared, sending a shockwave of dark energy blasting outward.
Naruto gritted his teeth, feeling the force trying to push him away.
"Not happening!"
He dug in his heels, forcing his chakra avatar forward, resisting the repulsion with sheer willpower.
Indra's lips curled into a snarl. "Then perish!"
His Susanoo blade ignited with black flames, slashing down with enough force to tear through dimensions.
Naruto acted fast.
Summoning a massive Rasenshuriken, infused with Six Paths Chakra, he threw it at point-blank range, aiming directly for Indra's Susanoo core.
"TAKE THIS!"
BOOM!
The explosion engulfed the battlefield, the force so intense it split the heavens apart.
Naruto huffed, his breath ragged, as he steadied himself on shaky legs. His Sage of Six Paths form flickered away, leaving him feeling the full weight of exhaustion and pain. His body screamed in protest, every muscle burning from the brutal exchange.
He glanced upward, his blue eyes narrowing as the smoke continued to clear.
Indra hovered above, his Crimson Perfect Susanoo cracked and unstable, the dark energy within flickering erratically. The damage from Naruto's Six Paths Rasenshuriken had been severe—part of Indra's body had been blown away, revealing exposed sinew and raw, pulsating energy struggling to knit itself back together.
Indra scowled, his Sharingan gleaming with frustration.
'Why is my body not regenerating as fast as before?' Indra thought in annoyance, clenching his fist as he felt the sluggish response of his healing factor.
Then, it hit him.
His crimson eyes snapped toward Naruto as he finally realized the source of his slowed regeneration.
'The Kyūbi's chakra… it's interfering with my healing…' His gaze darkened. 'Damn it. The fox's chakra must cause demons to heal slower than normal.'
Naruto smirked despite his exhaustion. "Guess you figured it out huh, Kurama chakra teems with so much life energy it's almost like getting exposed to the Sun for Demons. Huh Teme."
Indra eye's widen at what Naruto just said. "Hpmh comparing me to my other self you're an Idiot, honestly you and Menma are so similar and different it pisses me off."
"So the Fox demon is my counterpart. I was wondering who the Slug Demon was talking about before she died" Naruto said as Indra glared at him.
"Blood Demon Art: Crimson Abyss!" Indra roared, spreading his arms wide.
Instantly, the sky above turned dark crimson, shadows spiraling outward like ink spilled onto the canvas of dawn. Reality itself seemed to distort as tendrils of blood-red energy surged from Indra's damaged form, weaving themselves together to form massive, razor-sharp spears aimed directly at Naruto.
Naruto's heart thundered, his instincts screaming at him to dodge. "Kurama!"
"I'm already on it!" Kurama growled urgently within him, his chakra flaring brilliantly as a protective, golden cloak surged around Naruto's exhausted body.
The crimson spears launched forward, each one leaving jagged trails in the air as they shot toward Naruto with terrifying speed. Naruto, tapping into every ounce of strength and chakra left in his battered body, surged upward.
"Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Naruto yelled desperately.
Dozens of Naruto clones burst into existence, scattering and moving with blinding speed to evade Indra's deadly attack. Spears crashed through some, exploding violently, while Naruto twisted, narrowly avoiding another that skimmed past him, grazing his side painfully.
"Gah!" Naruto winced, stumbling slightly but forcing himself upright. His chakra reserves screamed in protest, pushing him closer and closer to his limit.
Indra's ragged breath echoed in the crimson void above, frustration and anger burning deep within his crimson eyes. His demonic regeneration was still struggling against the oppressive presence of Kurama's chakra. Despite his overwhelming power, this fight had dragged on longer than he'd anticipated, and he felt the toll it was taking.
Naruto straightened himself, determination igniting fiercely in his blue eyes as he met Indra's gaze directly. "I'm not backing down, Sasuke! No matter how much you throw at me!"
Indra's eye twitched at the familiar name, fury blazing as he clenched his fists. "I told you—I am NOT Sasuke!"
Naruto shook his head resolutely. "You can lie to yourself all you want—but you can't fool me."
Indra's expression twisted, his rage battling against something deeper, something raw. "Shut up! I'll end this now!"
Naruto smirked defiantly, drawing upon the last dregs of Kurama's chakra. "Bring it on, Teme!"
'The problem is I don't have enough chakra…' Naruto thought before looking at the Nichirin Hiraishin Kunai in his hand. 'Unless…'
Naruto's eyes flashed with determination as he tightened his grip around the Nichirin Hiraishin Kunai, its blade humming faintly with a quiet, otherworldly resonance.
'I don't have enough chakra left to match him blow-for-blow…' Naruto realized. 'But maybe I don't have to.'
Kurama's voice rumbled thoughtfully in Naruto's mind. "You're thinking of using the kunai's unique properties combined with the Hiraishin, aren't you, Naruto?"
Naruto nodded slightly. 'Exactly. If I can't overpower him, I'll have to outsmart him.'
Kurama chuckled, approval evident in his tone. "Alright then. Let's show him how unpredictable you really are."
Indra's crimson Sharingan blazed with fury as he prepared his next assault. Chakra pulsed around him violently, building rapidly. "Enough games, Naruto!"
Naruto's smirk widened. He flipped the Nichirin Hiraishin Kunai in his grip, feeling its comforting weight settle naturally into his palm. His body relaxed, breathing steadied, as he entered a stance reminiscent of the Fourth Hokage.
Indra's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "What trick are you planning now, dobe?"
Indra's patience snapped. "DIE!" he bellowed, hurtling toward Naruto with speed and fury, a massive crimson spear materializing in his hand.
Naruto exhaled sharply. 'Now!'
With a flick of his wrist, Naruto hurled the Nichirin Hiraishin Kunai directly toward Indra. The blade spun through the air, glowing softly as it absorbed some residual chakra, slicing cleanly through Indra's violent chakra aura.
"Fool!" Indra growled, easily dodging the blade, his smirk triumphant. "You missed!"
But Naruto was already gone, vanishing in a flash of golden-yellow light.
Indra's eyes widened in alarm. "What?!"
He barely turned his head in time to see Naruto appear directly above him, hand already swirling with chakra gathered from the kunai's trajectory.
"RASENGAN!"
Naruto slammed the spiraling sphere directly into Indra's exposed back, amplified by the residual chakra gathered by the Nichirin blade and the Hiraishin technique. A colossal burst of energy erupted, the air around them exploding outward in shockwaves.
"GAAAH!" Indra screamed, driven downward by the sheer force of the attack, his damaged Susanoo finally shattering completely.
'This is my only chance!' Naruto thought as he grabbed his Nichirin Blade then with a swift movement to cut off the demon's head.
Naruto's Nichirin Blade flashed brilliantly under the morning sun, its razor-sharp edge infused with the last remnants of his chakra and the vibrant energy of the Kyūbis. In one swift, decisive motion, the blade cleaved through Indra's neck.
Time seemed to freeze as Indra's eyes widened in shock, disbelief etched across his face. A brief flash of confusion and vulnerability flickered in his crimson gaze as the realization sank in.
Naruto landed heavily on the ground, stumbling slightly as exhaustion took hold. His breathing was ragged, his muscles screamed in protest, yet he remained standing, gripping his sword tightly.
Above him, Indra's severed head spun briefly in the air, the expression on his face softening—no longer hateful, but resigned, almost relieved.
As Indra's body began to dissolve, disintegrating into ash and embers in the sunlight, his voice echoed weakly, filled with bitter regret.
"You... really are different..." Indra whispered, the red glow fading from his Sharingan, leaving behind dark, sorrowful eyes—eyes Naruto knew all too well. "I guess Shingen is right that we shouldn't have underestimated you."
"Why… Why are you doing this? Why did you, the other me and the other Sakura-chan teamed up with Shigen, Tamoe, and Urashiki?" Naruto said in frustration as Indra continued to dissolve into ash. "Why align yourselves with the Ōtsutsuki? What did you have to gain huh?!"
Indra looked at Naruto as he ranted before giving him a dark look. "Simple power… The Power of the Ōtsutsuki."
"What…"
"It doesn't matter. Menma will destroy you then he'll kill Shingen." Indra said as finished burning up. "Not before breaking that Hashira girl you love, and turning her into a demon too."
Naruto stared in shock as Indra's last statement as the demon finished burning up.
Naruto stood frozen, the morning breeze tugging at his torn cloak, but the warmth of the sun felt distant—muted beneath the weight of Indra's final words.
"Not before breaking that Hashira girl you love, and turning her into a demon too."
His heart pounded in his chest.
The mention of her—no, the threat against her—hit harder than any blow Indra had landed during the fight. Naruto's grip tightened around the Nichirin Blade until his knuckles went white.
Kurama's voice stirred in the silence, low and grim. "Naruto… are you alright?"
Naruto didn't answer immediately. He was staring at the last traces of ash scattering on the wind, still hearing Indra's voice echo in his mind.
"Yeah we gotta regroup with the others and stop Urashiki." Naruto said with a sigh as he turned to head to where Sasuke and the others were.
"Naruto… You know what that demon said…" Kurama began before getting cut off by Naruto.
"I know Kurama, I know he said that to upset me." Naruto said as he started to run. "But Right now that does not matter, protecting the younger me is."
Kurama looked down at Naruto within his mind. "Naruto, I know how you feel but you must keep a cool head or you will just play into their hands."
"I know.." Naruto said simply as he moved. "But I won't let them have their way."
And Scene. Man another cliff hangar what happened to Shinobu and why didn't Indra instant kill everyone. Simple Indra was toying with everyone having fun the only time he actually got serious in the fight is when Guy started using the Eight Gates and when Naruto showed up. Indra power is where Sasuke was at by the time of the 5 Kage Summit so mix that in with abilities of the demon he can push his sharingan further without needing to replace his eyes'. Now with Shinobu well ya gotta read the next chapter to see what happens. The Urashiki arc will becoming to a close soon I know I said that last time, but this time I do mean it. So Until then see ya.