Shukaku isn't intimidated by the Nine Tails and uses Fuuton Renkuudan to attack the rapidly approaching fox. Kyubi easily dodges his attacks and finally grabs hold, catapulting Naruto onto Shukaku as Gamabunta transforms back to his toad form. Naruto is able to wake Gaara, but he immediately tries Desert Coffin. Gamabunta uses his tongue to protect Naruto.
Meanwhile, the battle between Orochimaru and Sarutobi continues deadlocked. Orochimaru taunts that Konoha is being attacked by the Sand and Sound. All his people will die.
Cut to the center of Konoha when the attacking ninjas realize that all the women and children have been evacuated. The signal is given and Konaha begins its counterattack. Hiashi Hyuuga byakugan's and takes out a number of his attackers, while the elder Nara-Akamichi-Yamanaka trio reunites to defend the village. The Hokage senses his villagers won't give up without a fight and explains that when you protect someone important, true strength will manifest.
Naruto quickly glances at Sakura's helpless body and remembers Sasuke's words - to rescue Sakura no matter what. He then asks Kyubi for help and powers up. He and Gaara continue to exchange blows until Naruto head butts Gaara, and Shukaku disappears. Gamabunta and Gamakishi head back to their own realms, and Naruto and Gaara fall to the forest floor, exhausted and depleted of chakra.
The Hokage realizes his time has come and he won't be able to take Orochimaru's soul with him. Before he dies, Sarutobi pulls one last technique - to bind Orochimaru's arms. He now will no longer be able to use any ninja techniques or form seals. With that satisfaction, Sarutobi dies with a smile on his face.