Author's Note: Just realized I was mistaken about something: Granny Chiyo' name. I thought Chiyo was the clan name, not her first name. I was referring to her brother as Elder Chiyo, I thought his full name was Ebizo Chiyo and Sasori Of The Red Sand's full name was Sasori Chiyo. Just realized none of these people were given last names in the manga or show, at least not any I could find. Not going to change it back because it would be to confusing but realized me referring to Ebizo as Elder Chiyo was probably throwing people off a little. (Lady Chiyo and Granny Chiyo same person, one is formal speaking and one is casual friendly.)

…. Kazekage's Private Training Ground ….

Gaara stood silently with his father and siblings watching as Granny Chiyo attached Chakra Strings to the tanuki puppet; making it walk around the open field to see if everything worked correctly. The Sand Jinchuriki had been informed that Naruto Uzumaki had found away to move the Ichibi's psyche to the wooden construct last night. Both his siblings and father seemed unusual happy about this development and it put the moody-child on edge; he had good reason to distrust his family.

"Everything seems to be in working order." The old lady remarked allowing the wooden weapon to take a setting position by a training post. "Shikaku Nara explained that he, Naruto, Zisho, and the three Genin would be coming around noon to complete the project."

Glancing towards the sun Gaara figured the Leaf Delegates would be arriving soon. Temari approached him cautiously and asked. "How do you feel Gaara, are you excited? If this works the way we hope then the Ichibi won't be able to eat away at your Psyche anymore."

The Jinchuriki's greenish blue eyes gave his sister a searching look as he wondered about her angle. Temari never really showed concern regarding his mental health before; like everyone else her only worry regarding his moods was if he would kill her or not. Turning away from his sister the silent boy continued to study the immobilized puppet that would soon house his demon.

Rasa watched his daughter try and converse with his youngest son. Seeing her have no luck in getting her distrustful sibling to open up the Kazekage felt a stir of anger. 'If not for the damned demilitarization policies of that fat fool Seiji, I never would have agreed to Granny Chiyo's accursed plan.' Looking towards the old woman as she walked up the brunette's anger faded a little. 'I can't really blame Chiyo for my son's hardships though, she was only trying to keep Sand strong. Plus, she was also working in secret to help Gaara all these years; if only everything would have gone exactly like she planned it to.'

The old woman noticed the Kazekage's look and asked while approaching. "Is something wrong Lord Rasa?"

"No Lady Chiyo." The man assured in an official voice. "Just eager to be done with this. I'm curious how it will effect my son."

The woman gave her leader a searching look unsure of his thoughts and feelings. Looking at the small children that stood quietly to the side in matching black kimonos, Chiyo spoke. "Hopefully this will ease Lord Gaara's burden; that is all I hope for sir."

Looking up at the sound of an approaching cart everyone observed the Daimyo's usual procession of Samurai walking in a protective unit. Off to the side was Squad Five with Shikaku Nara, his son Shikamaru, and Naruto. The redheaded boy kept shooting worried looks towards the cart while the pineapple haired boy looked to be sleep walking. Curiously wondering why the redhead was anxious Rasa looked towards the object carrying the oversized load of Daimyo but couldn't see an issue. Finally the oxen came to a stop and the two leading Samurai pulled the curtain back for everyone to see Dai Chino, the Daimyo, Blossom, and Sakura inside.

As the guards ran to help their boss exit Rasa finally understood Naruto's concern. 'He was worried for the two Namikazes. Doubtful though anything bad would have happened except for some kind of insult from Seiji.'

After greetings were exchanged the Daimyo looked to Naruto and asked. "So little Uzumaki Heir, how long will this take? It's rather hot out here you know and I'm sure Lady Namikaze would agree to be somewhere cooler as soon as possible."

"It shouldn't take to long sir." Izumi quickly answered for her brother so to avoid him stuttering out a response. The Daimyo shot the girl an angry look but refrained from saying anything. A large puff of smoke soon appeared by the Uzumaki Heir though that distracted all conversation. When he saw his sister had everything under control the boy had produced a small storage scroll and unsealed the Kyuubi.

"How was that?" The redhead quietly asked as he glanced over his partner. "Was the scroll to stuffy? Was it to uncomfortable? I can make some adjustments if I need to."

"No it was ok." Kurama assured as he looked around. His red slitted eyes found the oversized tanuki puppet as he explained. "Felt a little awkward but livable. I wouldn't want to be stuck in there permanently, but it will do for moving around crowded areas."

Satisfied with the Bijuu's answer Naruto turned to talk with Chiyo, only to see everyone from the Land Of Wind giving him shocked or bewildered looks. Nervously he asked. "W-w-what?"

"Nothing." Rasa spoke. "Just we weren't expecting to see the Kyuubi; plus, you've already seemed to be capable of holding civil conversations between yourselves."

"Oh, well, I promised him he could see his youngest brother." The redhead explained blushing while doing his finger tap habit. "I also needed to test out my Bijuu Puppet Storage Scroll. I'm going to make one for Gaara as well but wanted to be sure the thing wasn't to uncomfortable."

"Why?" Seiji asked rudely. "The creature serves you, doesn't it? The whole point of this puppet jutsu is to dominate the demon, right?"

Blossom spoke for Naruto this time. "Establishing a solid and trustful relationship between host and Bijuu, that is what this jutsu allows sir; as stressed in the description. The only real control the Jinchuriki themselves possess is how much chakra the Bijuu get. If the Ichibi prefers complete imprisonment opposed to a partial freedom he doesn't have to do anything when Gaara unleashes him through the puppet. That is why a partnership is still needed."

"All right, let's get this over with." Granny Chiyo spoke quickly. She didn't want the fool Daimyo to get offended or angry and jeopardize the treaty. Turning to Gaara she asked. "Please come with me and Lord Naruto to help create the puppet."

Leaving everyone behind both boys followed the old lady to the wooden tanuki with Izumi staying close to her brother's side. Chiyo removed a back panel section and handed it over to Naruto. The redhead took it and turned to his fellow Jinchuriki. "I n-n-need to see your p-p-prison seal."

Emotionlessly Gaara pulled his shirt up to reveal the design. The young Uzumaki studied it for a second and began to burn his own design into the wooden panel. Chiyo looked over his shoulder curiously and saw the process used to generate the tag. 'Interesting, he is inverting my original prison seal upon the puppet while adding a chakra maintenance and cap within the construction. Looks like he's applying a special controlling tag over the whole design that is tide directly to a hand sign sequence. Wonder if the signs themselves are important or can any four be used to activate the jutsu so long as they are included in the matrix?'

"Sorry Naruto, I know you're busy, but the hand signs sequence, can others be used or only those four?" The old lady asked.

"Any four will do, so long as they are included in the control matrix." Naruto said absentmindedly as he concentrated on his work. Finishing he placed the plate back on the Ichibi Puppet.

"O-ok Gaara, t-t-this is the h-h-hand signs to activate the p-p-puppet." Naruto explained nervously to the intimidating boy as he showed him bird, boar, dog, ram. Taking a deep breath to calm his nerves the redhead continued more confidently. "You should feel his chakra leaving you and entering the puppet. I would close it of at a small amount for now. Don't worry about giving the Ichibi to much since the jutsu has a chakra cap that it can't go over."

Making the hand signs Naruto showed him Gaara activated the puppet. The boy felt the connection the moment the technique began; watching fascinated as the wooden construct began to give off a golden glow while magnetically gathering sand. After a short while the tanuki appeared in all his man-sized monstrous glory, complete with corner dotted golden diamond eyes and blue tattoo-like markings. "WOOHOO I'M FREE! HOPE YOUR ALL READY TO D….. HEY, WHEN DID YOU PUNY HUMANS GET SO BIG!"

Everyone watching waited patiently for the overgrown tanuki to figure it out. Looking around the truth finally dawned on the Ichibi. "HEY, WHEN DID I GET SO SMALL!?"

"For the love of all things holy well you please stop yelling." Kyuubi moaned. "Your psyche and a small amount of chakra have been moved to a puppet vessel; idiot."

"Kurama! What are you doing here?" The tanuki asked calming down as he tried to make sense of everything.

Without answering the fox pointed to Naruto as way of explanation. The Sand Demon studied the small redhead closely and realized his chakra was far to strong for a normal human. Mentally reaching out to his oldest brother Shukaku asked through shared thought. 'Kurama, does this boy possess our father's chakra?'

'Yes brother, my Jinchuriki and the first person in a thousand years to be worthy of Hagoromo's blessing.' The fox explained proudly. 'It is because of his Yin/Yang Release granting him Living Chakra, derived from upgrading his Uzumaki Chakra Instinct, that has allowed you and me to be in these puppets. He has an unnatural ability to learn Fuinjutsu which allowed him to create the jutsu both he and Gaara are now using.'

Everyone watched as the tanuki examine the Uzumaki silently. Not knowing the reason behind the Ichibi's starring the small boy stuttered out a greeting. "H-h-hello Sh-sh-shukaku, I'm N-n-naruto U-u-Uzumaki."

"What of it brat." Shukaku spoke offensively, embarrassed he had been so caught up gawking. "This body is ok and all but couldn't I have got something bigger, something more fitting to a creature of my esteem?"

"You mean your own held esteem fool!" Kurama growled as he launched himself at his brother. Grabbing him in a headlock he mentally thought to his trapped sibling. 'Speak to my Jinchuriki in such a way again and you'll be begging for the safety of Gaara's prison.'

"Ow, ow, come on, I'm sorry, ok, get off!" Shukaku pleaded. However just when the tanuki was about to start crying he felt more of his power flood his man-sized body. Turning his eyes to look in Gaara's direction he saw his redheaded vessel with his left index finger in front of his face.

Straightening up with renewed strength the sand spirit broke Kurama's hold and threw him across the training area. Sucking in a large amount of air the beast molded chakra in his stomach and smashed his hands down hard on his protruding belly. 'Wind Release: Drilling Air Bullet'

However, the moment his arms hammered down on his belly all the chakra left the jutsu and returned to the sand covered puppet body; resulting in Shukaku simply knocking his own breath away. Gasping the big creature managed to draw air and asked. "What happened!?"

"Um, you and Gaara need to practice that some before it will work correctly." Naruto explained with a nervous finger tap. "You tried to mold the very chakra you are using to generate your body, which maintains physical strength, into the jutsu. Gaara should have been channeling your Bijuu Chakra directly into the attack for you to mold; otherwise you lose your own physical presence and can't use jutsu anyway. This resulted in my Bijuu Puppet Technique to automatically correct the irregularity." (1)

"Hahaha." Kurama laughed darkly as he approached. "My chakra is so volatile I don't need much to generate a basic attack."

The large fox opened his mouth to unleash a bolt of Bijuu Chakra at his brother but only smoke came out. Annoyed the great beast turned to Naruto waiting for an explanation. The little Uzumaki hid behind Izumi's leg and explained. "Brothers shouldn't fight."

"I didn't see you stopping him from throwing me away like some mangy dog!" Kurama accused his Jinchuriki angrily. "Give me chakra so I can hurt the overgrown full-of-shit litter box!"

"That's enough!" The young Uchiha barked. Both Bijuu gave the girl affronted looks at being ordered by a human. "The demonstration is over. Let's get back to the Kazekage and Daimyo."

"You may bow to those two, girl, but Shukaku The Sand Spirit bows to no one." The tanuki definitely stated.

"You bow to them if you want to keep your freedom." Izumi stated coldly.

Shukaku focused his golden eyes upon the annoying girl, quickly growing tired of her disrespect; he was one of the mighty Bijuu after all. However, before he could say or do anything two things happened, a good deal of his chakra left him and an overwhelming aura of killing intent came from Naruto. Being completely immobile in front of someone that both possessed the same power that created you, therefore possessing the potential to possibly completely destroy you, and was angry enough to try just that, was a terrifying experience.

"That's enough Shukaku." Gaara spoke in his monotone voice. "I realize we have to work together because we simply have no choice, but I can't have you hurting random people; mainly because my father and siblings asked me to restrain your more violent tendencies."

Giving the tanuki a little more chakra to walk everyone made their way back to the main group. Seiji watched them approach and gave the sand demon a look over. 'As I figured, nothing compared to the other one.'

Turning to Shikaku the overweight man spoke trying to sound important. "It looks like the jutsu works as promised. We shall convene later today for dinner and to officially bind the treaty with our signatures."

Turning to Blossom the man asked. "Care to join me for lunch Lady Namikaze?"

"No thank you, Lord Daimyo." The pinkette refused kindly. "I need to talk with Lord Shikaku about Leaf Village matters."

Shrugging uncaring the man climbed back into his carriage. His Samurai took position on either side and marched off. Blossom watched them leave very grateful to not be setting next to that ridiculous man. Turning she saw the Kazekage examining the tanuki closely with his other two children. Gaara had given the Bijuu enough chakra to function properly again.

"So, you're completely made out of sand, well except for the puppet underneath you anyway, but in your natural form completely out of sand, right?" Kankuro asked purposely being annoying.

Deciding to humor the brunette Shukaku grumbled. "Yes."

"So does Gaara still have his Ultimate Defense now that your consciousness is outside his body?" The aspiring puppet user asked still being obnoxious.

"Yes." The giant tanuki spoke with an undertone of anger. Kankuro was generally surprised by the answer. "That issue is complicated, technically it wasn't me protecting Gaara all this time. I was the one that influenced him to lash out violently because of my anger towards humans though." (2)

Everyone was so distracted by the conversation between the brunette and demon, no one noticed Temari pull out a large metal fan from the sand covered ground; she snuck out last night to place the object discreetly. Gripping it firmly she launched herself directly above the tanuki, coming down with all her might and the weapons full weight. Landing a mighty blow right between the Bijuu's eyes the dark blonde screeched. "YOU WERE ALSO THE ASSHOLE THAT GAVE HIM NIGHTMARES THAT ROBBED HIM OF HIS SLEEP, SLOWLY DRIVING HIM INSANE!"

The assembled Shinobi could only watched stunned as the pint sized ten year old continuously bashed her fan into the tanuki's head. Shukaku reached up to try and pull the mean girl off but Temari kept dodging his attempts while smacking him harder. Crying out the Sand Spirit begged. "PLEASE, SOMEONE HELP ME!"

Gold dust circled the girl and pulled her off the crying demon. Giving her dad an angry look she screeched. "HEY, I WASN'T DONE YET!"

"Enough Temari." The Kazekage barked. "You will behave yourself in front of our guests." Looking towards the Leaf Delegates Rasa ignored the giant fox rolling around on his back laughing and apologized. "I'm sorry for my daughter's behavior."

"No need to apologize." Shikaku reassured the man. "Her actions were justified in my book." Turning back to the Leaf Delegation the Jounin Commander spoke. "Let's get back to the hotel and prepare for tonight." Bowing respectfully to Rasa the scarred faced man concluded. "Naruto should have a special storage scroll for the Ichibi ready by dinner."

The Leaf Delegates said their goodbyes and left together; Naruto sealing away Kurama. Rasa began getting a feeling as if he'd missed something. Turning to Chiyo he asked. "Did anything about what just happened seem unusual or wrong?"

The elderly woman gave him a cocky grin and joked. "Like what, Shukaku The Sand Spirit getting a smaller puppet body or your daughter coming close to knocking him unconscious with a large metal fan?"

The Kazekage turned to look back at his three children; Temari and Kankuro were trying to talk with Gaara while Shukaku stood of by himself enjoying being outside. It was as Rasa examined the demon's blissful face the answer came to him. "Granny Chiyo, do you know how to recreate the Bijuu Puppet?"

Shrugging the Puppet Master explained. "I suppose, it wasn't to difficult really. The main issue was figuring out the inverse seal and a way to lock in a hand sign code; something I've never seen before. Probably take me a couple attempts but yeah, I could reproduce the technique eventually. Why do you ask?"

The Kazekage turned to his elder and explained. "It was never agreed that we would be taught the technique, only that a puppet would be created for Gaara."

Chiyo looked from the village leader, to the children, then the Bijuu, and back to Rasa shocked. "That means we accidentally stole from our new ally; Hidden Leaf. If other nations were to ever learn this happened we would have an extremely difficult time in future negotiations. What do we do Lord Rasa?"

"I need time to think." The Kazekage stated simply. "Stay with my children; we can't just leave Shukaku to roam free and to take him back to the village might cause a panic. I need to gather the Advisory Council for a secret meeting. I'll probably have to convene with Lord Seiji afterwards as well."

However, both Shinobi turned as a loud BONK was heard coming from behind. Chiyo smirked amused at the sight of satisfied Temari standing on top of a laid out Shukaku. "Well what do you know, it is possible to knockout a Bijuu."

…. Advisory Council Chamber ….

Seiji sat eating a plater of boiled shrimp waiting for the emergency meeting to begin. Honestly these fool Shinobi didn't seem to have anything better to do than waist his time. Looking to Rasa the Daimyo asked. "Can we begin soon, I have other places to be."

'We can just bring the damned food to you, you greedy dickhead.' The Kazekage thought angrily. Getting control of his anger the man said. "Yes Lord Daimyo, we might as well get started."

Waiting for everyone to give him their attention Rasa began. "Thirty minutes ago Uzumaki Naruto completed one of the conditions of the treaty between Wind and Fire by creating a working Bijuu Puppet to house the Ichibi. Unfortunately, we over looked one issue with this action. Lady Chiyo observed everything that took place to assure safety for both Gaara and Hidden Sand and accidentally learned how to make the Bijuu Puppet herself; this was not the agreement between Leaf and Sand."

"What does that matter?" The Daimyo rudely asked. "The fault is on the boy for not better securing his jutsu."

"I agree with you Lord Daimyo, but The Land Of Fire and Hidden Leaf may see things differently." Rasa explained trying to placate the stupid man. "Naruto is inexperienced in Shinobi, um….. dealings you could say, where as Lady Chiyo is not; Leaf can say she used her learned skills to trick the unassuming boy. If other nations find out we stole from an ally right at the very moment of signing a treaty, our very word becomes questionable in every dealing we do from now on with foreign powers."

"So what do you suggest." Baki asked setting next to Rasa. "Do we possibly have something equal to trade for the jutsu? Maybe renegotiate the proposed treaty itself, give something up in a far exchange?"

"I can't reasonably say if we have anything of equal value." Ebizo Chiyo spoke up while thinking. Looking to Rasa a thought came to him. "It's possible Naruto Uzumaki shall be placed in the CRA, standard of all villages attempting to breed a clan back from the brink of extinction, perhaps a bride from one of the clans."

"There is a young girl in my clan that has the potential to awaken the Scorch Release." An older advisor through in. "Though I don't know if we really want to potential give Hidden Leaf another Kekkei Genkai. Also a potential problem with your own daughter Temari, Lord Kazekage. Her children and future generations would have the potential for Magnet Release."

Rasa thought it over and said. "The Magnet Release wouldn't be to much of a problem seeing as it exists in several villages already; however, I do have ancestors that possessed the Scorch Release. Several generations between me and them but anything is possible."

Baki drummed his fingers on the table saying. "It would probably be best to get ahead of this. If no one has an objection I'll go ahead and talk with the Leaf Village Delegation before they realize the issue themselves."

No one objected and the Sand Jounin left quickly. Elder Chiyo smirked at the Kazekage and said. "More than likely Shikaku Nara figured out the issue before he even left the training area. He's just waiting to see how we react."

…. Leaf Village Hotel ….

Blossom sat in the main room having tea and a light lunch with everyone. Team Five and the children were having lunch with Kurama in the underground training area. The Namikaze Matriarch was quietly drinking her tea because she was to nervous to eat. They would know soon if the plan to save Sakura from an arranged marriage worked.

Zisho, setting next to her, polished off his bowl of egg noodle and chicken. Placing the dish back on the table he wiped his mouth and asked. "Are you not eating Blossom."

"To nervous." The woman said. "I haven't even explained to my daughter her hand is a requirement for the alliance. I'm hoping I won't have to but there remains to much uncertainty."

"Try putting it out of your mind dear." Ikari kindly spoke. Activating his Byakugan the elder Hyuga observed Baki walking in to the hotel from the street. The Jounin hadn't bothered suppressing his chakra so the Leaf Village Elder felt him approaching. "I believe we will have an answer soon anyway."

Shikaku noticed the active Dojutsu but said nothing. Not long a knock came from the door and he stood to answer. Standing at the entrance way was the Baki, the left side of his face covered as usual. Bowing respectfully he asked. "May I please come in Lord Nara?"

"Of course Baki, I take it you're here to discuss the oversight." Shikaku asked casually as he allowed the man to walk in. "Lady Chiyo accidentally learning the Bijuu Puppet Jutsu."

Not showing surprise the Sand Jounin gave an affirming nod. "The Kazekage wanted me to assure you this was not done intentionally and we would like to make it right."

"Curiosity is not a crime." The Leaf Jounin Commander said dismissively. "Me and the other Delegates have been discussing it ourselves and have come to two reasonable solutions. Lady Chiyo can allow Kakashi Hatake to use his Sharingan to erase the information from her mind or we simply scratch out the arranged marriage between Sakura and one of Lord Kazekage's sons."

Baki thought it over carefully. He knew already Granny Chiyo would never allow a foreign Shinobi to enter her mind, so that option was out. However, the arranged marriage was the main selling point for Seiji Okubo's consent to the alliance; telling the fat fool his great victory would have to be sacrificed for the greater good would not go down well. Looking up the Sand Advisor asked. "What about a future bride for Lord Naruto? Surely Hidden Leaf will place the boy in the CRA."

"To my knowledge that is still an ongoing debate; plus , if Naruto were to be placed in the CRA his brides would be chosen from the Noble Clans of Leaf. Ridiculous as it sounds to many people would be concerned of a foreign influence against the future Uzumaki Clan." Lord Nara explained.

"So, a future bride is a definite no sell?" Baki asked for clarification. At the dark haired man's nod he sighed defeated. "Telling the Wind Daimyo the marriage is off will be difficult."

Shikaku felt a little bad about manipulating the situation for Blossom's benefit, especially since it put Sand in an awkward situation with a man that hated them, but Minato would prefer his only daughter marry for love like he had wanted to.

…. Golden Scorpion ….

Once more the Leaf Delegation made its way to the famous restaurant. Dressed in their finest kimonos everyone was eager for this to be over. Nobuko Kusumoto was standing out front wearing a light blue formal kimono with her light brown hair done up in an elegant bun. Bowing respectfully she spoke. "Greetings everyone, thank you for coming to the official signing of the treaty. Like before we have set up a kids table, perhaps the Genin can eat with them while the grownups conclude everything."

Following the woman inside everyone saw two large tables set up in the middle of the dinning area. The children and Genin walked to the one on the left to sit with the Sand Siblings. Temari smiled at everyone. "Hello again, we're waiting on a few appetizers and tea."

Naruto looked towards Gaara and asked timidly. "So, how are you and Shukaku getting along?"

Rasa's youngest child was still not used to people trying to talk to him, so it took him a moment to respond. "Fine, he would like more freedom but appears content with what he has for the time being."

The young Uzumaki pulled a small scroll from his inside chest pocket and unsealed two small puppets; on a small Kyuubi and the other a small Ichibi. He past the mini-Shukaku over to Gaara and explained. "I went back to the 'Puppet Show' and bought these two guys. I've already placed the necessary tags on them as well. Now you can have Shukaku out without causing alarm."

The moody child reached out and picked up the small toy. Studying the thing for a second he placed it on the table and began hand signs. Sugawara looked around nervously. "Is this going to be ok with people?" However, before anyone could give an answer a miniature Shukaku was standing on the table. The small tanuki looked around alarmed and squeaked out "What the hell!?"

Following his fellow Jinchuriki's example Naruto also produced a miniature Kurama. The fox looked around annoyed before grumbling. "Great, I'm back in a puny body."

"Don't be down Kurama." Naruto tried cheering the dejected Bijuu up. "In this form you can enjoy food."

Both miniature demons have the young Uzumaki amazed looks; they had never eaten before. Seeing as a Bijuu was just a mass of chakra the need for substance was never required. Still this would be a new experience for both brothers. (3)

Over with the grownups everyone was getting settled in. The Daimyo sat next to Rasa and appeared very unhappy. A waitress came over and gave him a cup of tea while another began placing starters. Seiji plated a good portion for himself and everyone else took a little after.

"So, Lord Nara…." Rasa began, only to glance over curiously at the children's table.

Shikaku noticed his look as he to felt Bijuu Chakra and explained. "It's nothing to worry about Lord Kazekage. I believe Naruto created small vessels for both his and Gaara's Bijuu. This way both boys can interact more with their individual partners."

"I see." Rasa answered slightly confused. Figuring Naruto knew what he was doing the man continued. "Anyways, how are things back in Leaf. We've been hearing odd stories from travelers; something happened to the Uchiha Clan?"

The Leaf Delegates said nothing as they waited for Shikaku to handle this. The Uchiha Clan was definitely a major military asset and to admit it was crippled wouldn't do well for Hidden Leaf's image. Coming up with a reasonable answer the Jounin Commander explained. "A few days ago an unknown assailant managed to infiltrate the village. We still aren't fully sure what his intentions were but they did bring him into conflict with the Uchiha. As the man possessed a Sharingan himself, as well advanced skills, he wasn't driven off easily and several Uchiha did parish in the battle."

"Sharingan!?" Rasa asked shocked. "Does Hidden Leaf at least have some idea of this man's origins?"

"No, but we believe the Sharingan was stolen and not his actual eye." Ikari spoke up quickly; no need letting slip the Uchiha had an actual rogue running around. "This was evident by the fact he never once deactivated the Dojutsu. Like Kakashi here a handy-me-down Sharingan can't be turned off."

The Copy Ninja looked up at his name but said nothing. Ebizo, who sat on the other side of the Daimyo next to his sister, asked. "How significant were the Uchiha's losses?"

"Minimal." The Hyuga stated with a sigh. "Unfortunately though several were young; also Uchiha Ojo."

"Ojo The Perceptive!" The Granny Chiyo exclaimed. "I fought that man in two separate wars. No tactic I tried ever fooled him and there was no way to sneak attack either; the man always knew when an attack was coming."

"Oh yes, he was one of the old legends from our day." Ikari acknowledged. Glancing down at his tea the old man soberly asked. "Care to join me in a bottle of Sake Lord Ebizo, Lady Chiyo, we can get drunk and discuss which of us came closer to actually hitting that old fool? Cant really recall seeing him take a blow after making Jounin."

"Why not." Ebizo stated as he signaled one of the waitresses standing by to get a bottle. The young lady quickly hurried off to do as asked. Returning she placed two ceramic cups and container between the older Shinobi. The grey haired Puppet Mistress filled their cups and toasted. "To the legends that left before us, may we meet again in the next world; if only to conclude are damnable battles and settle old scores."

Shikaku Nara, Lord Rasa, and everyone else looked on silently as the three old Shinobi had their moment to fallen friends and enemies, the Daimyo uncaringly waiting for the toast to be done. Attempting to have his own voice heard Seiji poured a cup of sake and stated. "To the new friendship between our two great nations; The Land Of Wind and The Land Of Fire." The assembled Shinobi allowed the fool to have his moment as everyone poured themselves sake or hosted up tea cups.

Over with the kids and Genin things were getting interesting. Both miniature Bijuu were hamming it up over a platter of various dressed shrimp and Gyoza.

"Kami, these are incredible!" The small fox squeaked as he chewed a sautéed shrimp.

Sugawara reached out to grab one and received a hostile growl from the little red demon. Chuckling a little he continued to reach for an appetizer only to gain a welp on his hand from Kyuubi's tail. "These are mine human brat!"

"Hey Kurama, you be nice." Naruto pouted. "Share."

"Share!?" The little red Bijuu squeaked in comical fashion. "I've never been able to enjoy any of these things in my entire one thousand years of living. You grubby humans have no idea what that is like. Now you tell me to share with some mangy runt that has probably eaten more than his far share of these delectable goodies, I don't think so!" To prove his intentions the small demon covered the whole platter with his body and nine tails.

Across the table Kankuro was attacking Shukaku with chopsticks. The pudgy Sand Spirit was guarding a plate of Gyoza stuffed with beef and pork; the aspiring puppet user's favorite food. The pudgy ball of sand held one in each hand while his mouth chewed a third quickly, cheeks bulging like a chipmunk. Every time the brunette attempted to take a dumbing his utensil was met by lightning fast and fancy tail work.

Growling the frustrated boy demanded. "Give me one of those already."

Shukaku swallowed his mouthful and gave out a sharp high pitched "No" before stuffing a second into his muzzle. One claw now free he shot Kankuro a rude hand sign before grabbing another Gyoza.

Back with Kurama the 'Battle For Platter Shrimp' was heating up. On the heavily guarded plate sat several Coconut Fried Shrimp amongst the various types, and Sakura wanted them. She tried using her chopsticks when the small fur ball was distracted by Sugawara but still failed. Kurama, who wasn't about to lay a hand on the little pinkette princess, gripped the edges of the dish with his four feet and used his tails to spider walk away; tongue sticking out. Definitely he boasted high pitched. "Mine!"

Sakura grumbled annoyed and made the sign of snake. Her straight back pink locks took on a more wilder look as several tentacles of hair shot out to take what she wanted. Kurama gave a squeak of surprise and readied his tails to fend of the girl's attack.

The grownups had noticed the commotion. The whole point of separating the children on the other side of the room was so they wouldn't annoy the Daimyo; judging by the man's wrinkling forehead it wasn't working. Having enough Ige activated his Byakugan to have a look and smirked. "Well there's something you don't see everyday. Sakura and Kyuubi are fighting hair and tail over a platter of various shrimp, while Kankuro is attempting to steal Gyoza from the Ichibi, the boy has actually attached chakra strings to two separate sets of chopsticks; he's very well coordinated but the Sand Spirit seems to be a tail welding expert."

Sighing aggravated Rasa made to stand. "I'll take care of this."

"Oh let them have their fun." Granny Chiyo said waving the man down. Her cheeks were quite red along with Ikari and Ebizo, all three had drunk a good amount already. "Your only young once; besides, I already signaled the waiter staff to pile on the food. Best way to keep kids quiet is with full mouths and bellies."

Looking up the Kazekage noticed several waiters and waitresses hurrying over to the kids table; platters of various foods and several trays of tea between them. Observing the scene for a few minutes he saw the kids finally eating while the two Bijuu coveted as many delights as possible; though because of their small bodies that amount wasn't very much. Seeing as the situation was handled Rasa relaxed to enjoy his own dinner.

Later, after everyone was feed and small talk was concluded, the leader of Hidden Sand produced the proposed final draft of the treaty and gave it to Shikaku to go over. The Leaf Jounin Commander glanced at the basic points being made and asked. "You wish to make right the accidental gaining of the Bijuu Puppet knowledge by forgoing the arranged marriage?"

"Yes, if that is ok?" Rasa asked. "The simple fact is Lady Chiyo knows much regarding our village secrets and such that we could never share, not even with allies. We discussed it amongst ourselves and believe this is the most reasonable decision."

Nodding his head understanding Shikaku explained understandingly. "We're aware the knowledge was obtained accidentally, an oversight on both Lady Chiyo's and Naruto's part. Unfortunately we can't let it go. I also understand the complications of Lady Chiyo allowing herself to be placed under another's Genjutsu, this method would leave to much unsettled; Kakashi could still valuable secrets or Lady Chiyo could have simply written the information down somewhere to have access to later."

The Daimyo looked sour at the Nara's words. The man had tried reasoning that Genjutsu would be an acceptable option only to have a similar explanation thrown in his face. 'Damn Shinobi, always over thinking everything and letting suspicion run away from logical thought.'

"So, are we in agreement with the treaty?" Baki asked. Seeing confirming nods the man banged his hand upon the table and exclaimed. "Good, Sake all around!"

…. Kazekage Manor Rooftop ….

Gaara sat looking up at the stars wondering about everything that happened today. First Temari had tried talking with him and then attacked Shukaku because she felt it justified. When he had asked her why she did it all Temari said was 'Your my little brother and that thing hurt you. I've wanted a way to clobber his ass for years and I wasn't going to let the first opportunity pass."

Kankuro had sat next to him during dinner, usually he tried to avoid being close so Gaara couldn't suddenly lash out and kill him. He tried talking about puppets and his other hobbies to engage a conversation. All Gaara could do was sit quietly and listen as he really didn't have much to talk about; he didn't have a hobby. 'Wonder how hard it would be for me to make glass?'

Hearing footsteps the young boy turned to watch cautiously as his father approached. The Kazekage's face was unreadable as he studied his youngest son. "May I join you?"

The boy gave no response to his father except to turn back towards the stars. Rasa sat next to him and gazed upwards as well. "Gaara, we need to talk."

"Is this where you try and convince me the assassination attempts weren't you?" The boy asked in a dead panned voice.

The Kazekage never looked away from the sky as he spoke. "I'm not going to lie, I ordered both attempts at the behest of the Advisory Council. Most believed you were to unstable, that the stronger abilities you showed in comparison to the other two Sand Jinchuriki that came before you was a double edged sword. They felt Lady Chiyo's plan to make the perfect Jinchuriki was a failure."

Gaara turned to his father angrily. "So, to appease the council you ordered my own uncle to kill me?"

The Kazekage looked away in shame as he admitted a foolish truth. "The words of hatred Yashamaru spoke to you were nothing but a lie crafted by me; he always loved you and your siblings more than anything and that's why he decided to sacrifice himself. The false assassination was a plan we both came up with together in hopes of protecting you. We hoped by showing the council you could keep control after such a betrayal they would realize you still had value. The plan failed though and your uncle died in vain; you lost control as the council predicted and I had to restrain the Ichibi when it was unleashed." (4)

Gaara studied Rasa for several minutes looking for tell-signs of deceit. Not recognizing any in his father's facial expressions, voice patterns, or body language, the Jinchuriki was forced to conclude he was telling the truth. Looking out over towards the horizon he asked. "What of the second attempt?"

"That fool." Rasa stated with contempt while rolling his eyes. "An idiot with strong family ties I was pressured by the Advisor Council to promote up the ranks. Though officially he was a low level Jounin the moron could have only past for mediocre Chunin at best. I sent him to kill you knowing he had no chance; just to buy time to save you."

"Save me?" The young boy asked confused.

"I was researching methods to better control Bijuu." The Kazekage confessed. "Apparently I wasn't the only one either as Granny Chiyo was also looking for a way. We knew your issues stemmed from the Ichibi eating away at your psyche and looked for a way to stop it. We hope this new Bijuu Puppet will allow you to regain mental stability with the Ichibi's own mind being isolated in another vessel."

The young boy thought it over but couldn't fully wrap his around everything. "So what happens now? Does the council still want me dead?"

"I'm not sure Gaara." Rasa sighed frustrated. "With the looming threat of possible war on the horizon trying to create a new Jinchuriki would be foolish; most on the council see that. Some though have asked Granny Chiyo if she could create a Bijuu Puppet a baby could use that Sand could control. The crafty old woman explained that she had only the basic understanding of the jutsu and needs time to fully recreate it; plus, she has no idea how an outside person could mold the baby's chakra to activate the Bijuu Puppet."

Both father and son sat quietly for a few more minutes before Rasa spoke again. "I know I don't deserve forgiveness Gaara, and your more than welcome to continue hating me, but Kankuro and Temari always loved you. Your siblings don't always show it but both resented me for the decisions I made regarding your mother's pregnancy; sealing Shukaku inside you killed Karura and they know it. They never blamed you for her death, only me and Granny Chiyo. They're both smart enough to understand why we tried what we did but that doesn't mean they forgive us."

Standing up the Kazekage looked down sultan his youngest sadly. "Why don't you try and get some sleep Gaara? You will no longer be plagued by nightmares."

"Shukaku doesn't sleep." The boy responded blankly as he thought about his siblings. "He's in my room looking around. If I go and lay down he will just annoy me."

Rasa hadn't thought of that, but it made sense. Shukaku would unleash nightmares upon his Jinchuriki whenever they slept to drive them insane; the whole point of the experiment with Gaara was to see if there was a way to make a Jinchuriki immune to the dreams. The Ichibi himself would have to be awake to manipulate the images. If he himself never slept than his host was never given a moments piece; no wonder they all go insane.

"I have some paperwork that I still need to do. I'll take him with me so he doesn't disturb you."

…. Leaf Village Hotel ….

Naruto sat on his bed petting Kurama's head. The small fox was sleeping in his lap and was quite content. The redheaded looked up as his sister walked in. He could tell she was uncomfortable about something.

"How's it going with the fur ball?" She whispered seeing the sleeping fox.

"You don't need to whisper Izumi, he's a real heavy sleeper." The boy explained in his usual quiet way.

Sitting on her brother's bed the girl asked uncertain. "Naruto, are you ok? What with the way you were forced to give up a jutsu you invented an all."

The boy's brown eyes looked down at the fox in his lap as he explained. "I didn't mind letting Lady Chiyo have the Bijuu Puppet Technique so Sakura wouldn't have to marry someone she didn't want to; I didn't like deceiving her though as that was mean."

Izumi rolled her eyes at the boy's statement; she knew something was bothering her baby brother but wasn't sure what exactly. The child still hid the majority of his knowledge from everyone, even those he fully trusted; granted if you asked him a specific question he wouldn't lie, but you still had to know what to ask.

"Should have known you would feel bad about that." The Kunoichi chuckled. "Naruto, we're Shinobi….."

"I know that already." Naruto said with quiet anger cutting his sister off. "But that can't always be the excuse to do dishonest things Izumi. Why did you kill that man? Because I'm a Shinobi it's what I do. Why did you still that jutsu scroll? Because I'm a Shinobi it's what I do. That broken system is the same one people have been using for a thousand years and we wonder why war and death follow each other so frequently. It's stupid and it doesn't work. Also, if 'Because I'm a Shinobi' is the ultimate excuse to do anything wrong to someone else, why do foreign Shinobi hate one another most of the time. Literally, the Fourth Hokage killed hundreds, maybe thousands, of Hidden Rock Shinobi during the last war and they hate him for it; when really they should except he was 'just a Shinobi' and let it go, but they don't. Do you know why Izumi? It's because as Shinobi we don't believe that shit ourselves."

Izumi studied her angry brother waiting for him to calm down. Growing angry herself the Kunoichi asked. "Well Naruto, what should we have done? Tried talking it over with the fat selfish Daimyo; he never would have agreed. Of course there were more darker Shinobi methods we could have employed; Genjutsu or assassination. I think a harmless trick on an old lady's curiosity was the gentler approach."

The redhead pouted at his sister's logic. He hated to admit she was right. Izumi calmed down and tried to think of a way to change the subject. Looking around she saw an odd looking puppet setting on Naruto's nightstand. "What's that, new body for Kurama?"

"No." Naruto explained looking over. "A type of guard I'm creating for Hanabi."

Standing up the Kunoichi walked over to have a closer look. The best description she could give was a solid looking wooden rabbit. The ears were tipped with metal blades and the eyes were coal black marbles. "What's it do? Oh, also I don't think the Hyuga Clan will be keen on Hanabi learning anything but Juken."

Naruto extended five chakra strings from his left hand and made the puppet open every hidden compartment. The sides were loaded with kunai and senbon launchers, the mouth had an odd looking contraption with the kanji for fire on the roof, and each foot extended hidden blades; it was quite a lot of weapons for such a small doll. However the thing that truly baffled Izumi was a small glass ball inside the chest cavity with the kanji for heart / essence.

"Hanabi won't need to learn the puppet technique to use my Live Essence Puppet." Izumi heard Naruto say as he released the chakra strings and began molding chakra. The girl watched as dust gathers over the little body and the doll soon resembled a live white snow hare. "I got a rabbit hart from a local butcher."

"Ok little brother, this is amazing, but how do you control…" The girl began asking only to stop as the 'rabbit' began acting life-like. It stood up nose twitching as it walked over to snuggle the Kunoichi's hand. Absentmindedly, Izumi petted it as she picked it up; surprisingly the girl felt body heat, a pulse, and artificial breathing.

"Right now my subconscious mind and memories control the puppet." Naruto explained. "Basically, I know how rabbits in the wild act from the pet shops I've visited, as well books. Those thoughts and memories are being transmitted to the puppet by the jutsu that creates it. There are also pre-made commands that exist in the puppet's design that can protect Hanabi; if she gets scared because someone's attacking her the doll will retaliate with a lethal response. When she gets good enough she will be able to direct the pseudo hare to attack as she wants."

Izumi looked down at the false rabbit in complete awe. "Naruto, why didn't you use this in trade with Hidden Sand? This is an Ultimate Jutsu if I've ever saw one."

The young Fuinjutsu Master thought of his response and explained. "When I made the Bijuu Puppet it was to help Gaara; I had no ulterior motive. When I came up with the Living Essence Puppet it was to give Hanabi a toy she would love that would also protect her. The truth, I made the Bijuu Puppet after coming up with the Living Essence Puppet; I just never saw them as bartering tools. They are jutsu that exist to help those I want to and nothing more."

Izumi laughed happily as she gave her baby brother a smile; it was so him. Everything Naruto had done throughout his live was to help others and keep his loved ones safe; even his own personal strength. He made the Bijuu puppet only to ease Gaara's burden because he too new the struggles of Jinchuriki, and the Living Essence Puppet to protect someone precious to his heart. First and foremost, before being a Shinobi, Naruto would always be the hero that strives to help those that needed him: for that is what made him Naruto Uzumaki.

Author's Note:

(1)- I know that confused someone so I'll make it simple. Shukaku needs chakra to maintain his body and he needs chakra to perform jutsu. Gaara was only giving him chakra to generate a body and greater strength, so when he tried to use wind jutsu he stole from his own physical presence. Had this worked like he wanted it to his hands would have smashed down on unprotected wood, resulting in the destruction of the puppet; so the Bijuu Puppet Jutsu corrected the error.

Another way to say it: Gaara and Shukaku must learn to work together so as to become stronger.

(2)- In 'Naruto Shippuden' it is revealed that Gaara's mom Karura's essence, or possible soul, never was really sure what they were saying, lived in his sand and protected him. Think it was a retcon so as to explain why Gaara maintained the ultimate defense after losing Shukaku to the Akatsuki.

(3)- Does make some weird sense. Maybe they get to experience food through the Jinchuriki but once again, to my knowledge, no manga answer.

(4)- I know I'm probably not completely in canon with my explanation but it's the best I can do. Rewatched episodes were Gaara killed Yashamaru and the one were Edo Tensei Rasa told Gaara the truth right before being sealed away, still makes little sense to me; also, really wish that fight had been bigger. Not sure but believe this was more retconning to make Rasa look less monstrous and more like a tragic character who made bad choices.