[Post-war AU] Four years after the war's end, Kakashi assigns Naruto a long mission with the promise of becoming the next Hokage at its completion. Naruto sets out on his mission that may take years and participates in many adventures along the way. During his travels, he unexpectedly encounters a beautiful, pink-eyed woman from his past. [Edited]

One life changing decision early in Naruto's life has startling consequences further down the line. What changes? What cannot be changed?

Having been denied his birthright by the council of Konoha, Naruto forsakes the Leaf Village. He leaves for what he hopes is a better life among the shinobi of Suna, taking his family's scrolls and heirlooms with him.