Ch-155 'Trash'.

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...

As the trio collectively turned their attention toward the origin of the sound, a revelation unfolded before them: the individual who had addressed them was none other than Jiryoku, currently suspended in mid-air.

"Jiryoku!" exclaimed Naruto, his voice tinged with shock, as his gaze fixed upon the levitating figure.

The presence of Jiryoku left the trio in a state of confusion, prompting Kakashi to inquire, "What brings you here?"

"I heard about Asuma's demise, and so I've come to converse with Ino and my other friends, ensuring her well-being. Simultaneously, I intend to confront and dispatch the immortal duo of Akatsuki. Despite Asuma being a 'trash' according to me, he served as the Guardian Ninja of the Fire Nation. Thus, his demise must not be in vain," articulated Jiryoku.

Naruto, now with a slightly angered tone, queried, "What did you just say?"

"In these years, have you, by any chance, developed any maladies in your ears or something of the sort? I've stated my position, and I don't find it necessary to reiterate myself," expressed Jiryoku.

"You labeled Asuma-Sensei as 'trash,'" Naruto pointed out.

"My apologies. I'm acquainted with only one word that aptly characterizes an individual who, in my perspective, is feeble, holds no value in my eyes, can be effortlessly crushed like an ant by me, and evokes a sense of disgust – and that word is 'trash.' Do you happen to have an alternative term that encapsulates these particular qualities? If so, please be my guest and share it; I'm more than willing to employ that term to describe your aforementioned Asuma-Sensei," elaborated Jiryoku. Jiryoku's intentions weren't to deliberately provoke Naruto, but his authentic sentiments towards Asuma portrayed individuals like Hiruzen and Asuma as hypocrites – projecting one image to the world while concealing a contrasting reality within themselves.

"Take back what you just said about Asuma-Sensei," demanded Naruto, his tone infused with visible anger.

"Hoo, and what leads you to believe that I would reconsider my statement merely because you request it? Are you so assured in your strength that you feel capable of challenging me?" inquired Jiryoku.

"While I may not have a complete understanding of my own power, there's one thing I'm certain of – you cannot speak about Asuma-Sensei in that manner. Take back your words or else..." Before Naruto could conclude his statement, Jiryoku casually flicked his finger in Naruto's direction. The force propelled Naruto through the air like a ragdoll, and he collided with a small hill. The impact was significant, causing rocks from the hill to tumble and scatter on the ground, obscuring the view of Naruto.

(A/N: New novel released title: Naruto: Sternritter Grandmaster of Konoha.)

"Or else?... Well, hello there. I'm all ears. Please, continue," said Jiryoku, extending his right hand in the direction where Naruto had been sent flying, a teasing smile playing on his face.

For the next few moments, a palpable calm settled over the surroundings. Kakashi and Sakura, their faces etched with worry, especially Kakashi, who wore a particularly solemn expression, sensed a profound shift in Jiryoku's power. It was evident that, compared to six months ago, Jiryoku had grown significantly stronger.

In a sudden burst of force, the rocks concealing Naruto erupted, releasing an immense surge of chakra. The once-obscured Naruto emerged, now transformed into the formidable four-tailed version.

With remarkable speed, Naruto swiftly disappeared from his initial position, materializing in front of Jiryoku in a swift blur of red. In a swift motion, he unleashed a flurry of punches toward Jiryoku.

"Excellent," Jiryoku praised. Following his words, he, too, clenched his fist and delivered a forceful punch towards Naruto. The collision of their fists was impactful, and the aftermath became apparent as Naruto, despite being in his four-tailed form, struggled to withstand the sheer force. He was propelled backward, dragged along the ground.

The glaring contrast in strength became evident in this moment. While engaging with Naruto, Jiryoku refrained from utilizing gravity or any form of Haki, relying solely on his unbridled, physical brute strength.

Defeated once again by Jiryoku, Naruto roared in a potent mix of frustration and anger. His intense emotional turmoil triggered the growth of another tail, elevating him to the five-tailed version. As Naruto readied himself for another assault on Jiryoku, his intentions were abruptly thwarted. A formidable gravitational force, wielded by Jiryoku, gripped Naruto, rendering him immobile and effectively sealing his ability to move forward.

"Do not embarrass yourself; you are no match for me. Just lie down there obediently," taunted Jiryoku.

However, expecting compliance from Naruto, who now embodied the formidable five-tail mode, seemed futile. Rather than pacifying the situation, Jiryoku's words exacerbated Naruto's anger. Another roar erupted from Naruto, this time accompanied by the growth of yet another tail, adorned with bones covering his outer body. In this dramatic transformation, the six-tailed version of Naruto emerged, signifying a surge in both his power and determination to face Jiryoku.

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