A sharp glint flashed in Naruto's eyes.
If Sasuke and Sakura had known what he was thinking, they would have wondered if someone had taken over his body. This was nothing like Naruto!
But
this was what Naruto had gained from studying under Aogetsu Hyuga.
With any other teacher, Naruto would never have come up with a plan like this!
Tens of thousands of eyes were fixed on Naruto. His expression was resolute
as he pressed the kunai a little deeper. "Kurama, you have five seconds to decide!"
"Five!"
As Naruto began counting down, the Nine-Tails looked furious inside him.
He had been sealed inside many Jinchūriki,
but never once had he been threatened like this!
"Fine. You've got guts!"
After that, the Nine-Tails fell silent. Naruto stopped counting and waited for the change in his body.
Soon,
an immense power swept through Naruto.
The corner of his mouth lifted slightly.
Even his smile bore a hint of Aogetsu Hyuga's style.
"Thank you, Kurama."
Naruto meant it.
Cangyue had taught him,
not to use morality to force someone's hand.
So he didn't tell the Nine-Tails that helping him was simply the right thing to do.
He also knew
that he had acted without regard for the Nine-Tails' life.
From the Nine-Tails' perspective,
Naruto was trying to get him killed.
That was why
Naruto's apology was sincere.
The Nine-Tails snorted.
"I'm done worrying about it. I'm giving you all my power. But listen, brat: I can come back from the dead. You can't!"
Naruto tightened his forehead protector with a grin.
"You don't have to worry about me! Sasuke! Sakura! Let's go!"
Sakura wasn't afraid either. She punched one palm with her fist.
"Right!"
Sasuke smiled, though he still forced his mouth into a dismissive twist.
"I don't need you