Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or any of its characters as they are the property of Masashi Kishimoto. The author of the cover image is indy-riquez from DeviantArt. You can check the link for the original image in my profile.

Chapter 43: A Kage's Burdens

''Achoo!''

Naruto snorted loudly and wrapped himself tighter with his winter cloak, shaking off some of the falling snow. It was freezing! He hadn't known that the Land of Iron was this cold! It was almost as bad as the Land of Frost.

''Are we there yet, Kakashi-sensei?'' Asked Naruto, making his best effort to ignore the cold and keep his steady step up the icy cliff.

''We are almost there. Just passing this hill, in fact,'' said Kakashi, leading the way serving as a guide.

''I hope so. I'm tired of sleeping in cold-ass caves,'' said the newly appointed Hokage. They had been traveling for a few days now. At first it hadn't been too bad but the further and further they got into the Land of Iron's territory the worse the climate got.

''To be honest this does make me a bit nervous. I never thought I'd witness the five Kage coming together like this.'' Yugao followed closely behind them, guarding the rear. ''I'm honored that you chose me to be one of your two bodyguards, Naruto.''

''You mean, Hokage-sama,'' Kakashi corrected with a playful smile.

''Right. Hokage-sama.'' Yugao played along deviously.

''Cut it out, you two. Seriously, just Naruto is fine!'' Complained the young leader.

Both adults shared a chuckle. It never got old to tease Naruto about his new position.

''Still, I'm still surprised you picked me to come with you,'' said Yugao.

Naruto shrugged sheepishly. ''What can I say. You were always around me and Kurotsuchi for so long that you are kinda like an older sister,'' Admitted the blond.

Yugao stared oddly at the boy for a moment. It was a bit weird to have him think of her with such closeness but she couldn't deny that both Naruto and Kurotsuchi had also become sort of younger siblings to her too. Younger siblings that wanted to bone each other and were at fault for prematurely aging her from stress due to their irresponsible antics that threatened war between their nations, but younger siblings nonetheless.

It didn't take long for the trio of Konoha ninja to make it all the way to the top of the hill, revealing a pyramid-like structure that had been hiding from view using the mountain walls as cover that even had several more rows of gigantic stone walls around it for protection.

''Amazing! Who would have thought some building like this was here?'' said Naruto in awe. This could almost be its own hidden village.

''The samurai from the Land of Iron are just as resourceful as any ninja nation. Not to mention strong too,'' said Kakashi. ''There is a reason they have managed to stay neutral and hold on to their territory all this time. They are a force to be respected.''

With their destination in sight, they carefully made it down the slope towards the outer barricade serving as the first door of the entrance. In front of it, was a tall individual wearing a metal-plated armor covering his entire body along with a helmet that kept his face hidden.

''Wait a minute, is that Gaara?!'' Naruto asked upon spotting another three-man team also approaching the entrance.

Yugao and Kakashi were quick to confirm that Naruto was right. The Kazekage was indeed arriving along with them.

''Naruto, is that you?'' Temari turned around in surprise, brushing her unruly sand blond hair out of her face to see better in this hail.

''Indeed he is,'' Said Kankuro, just as surprised as his sister. ''What are you guys doing here?''

Gaara smiled with content at seeing his old friend. ''Naruto, nice to see you here, though unexpected.''

''I'm happy to see you guys, too,'' Said Naruto. He had had so many things on his mind that it had escaped him that coming to a Kage reunion meant seeing Gaara too.

''At least we won't be seeing just a bunch bitter old farts with you here,'' said Kankuro.

''I'm happy to get to see you again. It has been a while,'' said Gaara. ''However, I was expecting to meet Tsunade-sama here. Where is she? Are you escorting her?''

Kakashi and Yugao shared a knowing look while Naruto was briefly disheartened to be reminded of her comatose grandma figure. Still, he still managed to give the Suna siblings a look of amusement at their question.

''No, baachan couldn't come. She isn't feeling well you see,'' Naruto regrettably informed them.

''There was no time to wait for lady Tsunade to get better so we had to choose another Hokage at once,'' said Yugao.

''I see. That's a shame,'' said Gaara with genuine concern. ''Give her my wishes for a speedy recovery.''

''So, does that mean that you are the new Hokage, Kakashi-san?'' Inquired Temari, finding that to be the most logical conclusion given the Konoha members present in Tsunade's stead.

''Actually, I'm the Hokage now!'' Naruto finally revealed his new position.

Temari and Kankuro went agape in for several seconds, staring at Naruto in a mixture of surprise, disbelief, and awe. Meanwhile, Gaara for his part soon replaced his surprise with a proud smile.

''Congratulations, Naruto,'' said Gaara. ''I knew you would be able to realize your dreams someday, my friend.''

''Yeah...um, you left me without words,'' said Kankuro. ''Only thing I can say is congrats, man. I know you'll do well.''

''Who would have thought you'd make it so soon,'' said Temari just as happy for him as the rest of her brothers. ''I'm really glad you finally became a Kage.''

Naruto scratched the back of his neck, feeling a bit put on the spot. ''Well, the choice is not final yet but I'll do the best I can either way.''

''If you do end up as the undisputed Rokudaime Hokage, I know that you'll do a great job as I know you'll put everything you got into the job,'' added Gaara. ''Just try to be mindful of all the new responsibilities that come with the job. A lot of the choices you will have to make from now on won't be easy and you'll have to put your village and the people you love before you always, even yourself.''

''I know it won't be easy. I realize that,'' said Naruto. ''But just as you said, I won't ever back down even if it's difficult. I'll definitely do the best job there is!''

''I have faith in that.'' Gaara returned Naruto's smile. ''Just giving friendly advice. From Kage to Kage.''

''Ahem,''

All shinobi present directed their attention to the samurai guarding the entrance to the building that they had been ignoring until now.

''If you are finished catching up, I would advise that you proceed to the summit,'' the samurai said with a deep distorted voice through his mask. ''It is rude to keep people waiting.''

''Sorry sorry. We'll be coming in shortly.'' Kakashi shot the armored man a carefree smile.

''It seems that we will have to leave this conversation for later, Naruto,'' Gaara said.

''Right,'' agreed the blond.

With a mighty shove from the samurai, the towering gate spread open a passage of several more rows of barriers opening before them forming a sort of tunnel of metallic doors.

With no more time to waste, the two groups of ninja went through, steadily passing one after the other.

Naruto noted that the place was heavily guarded. Not only was the main building surrounded by all these outer walls but each one of them had more than a few samurai guarding each gate. It almost seemed overkill but he supposed that it made sense if all the Kage were to gather.

After a few minutes, they finally reached the pyramid-shaped structure. It was even bigger than they thought now that they had it up close, it seemed more like a fortified city rather than a simple building. However, they didn't have much time to admire it before they entered the wonderous structure.

Their footsteps echoed in the mostly empty and silent halls. For such a big building the interior was oddly barren save for the massive pillars supporting it and the occasional samurai stationed against a wall.

Finally they arrived at a specific room. It was big and had a large U-shaped table in the center with an additional desk at the head. True to the strongly fortified theme of the place the walls were lined with samurai and at the table were several individuals already sitting down and waiting for them.

Naruto took a moment to survey the room and take a good look at the people there.

At the head of the table sitting at the desk was an old man. The top of his head was wrapped in bandages, he had a rather long graying goatee and a thin, pointy, and almost as long, mustache.

A rather beautiful woman occupied one of the seats. She had long auburn hair tied into a top knot with a bang covering one of her green eyes; had pale, fair skin covered by a blue tunic that accentuated her figure. She shot the blond an inquisitive look, her crimson lips forming a slight grin as if content with what she saw. Before her, rested a conic hat almost identical to the Hokage hat that Naruto was accustomed to, except for the blue color and the Kanji for 'water' written on it, which had to mean that this pretty lady was the Mizukage, a realization that left Naruto a bit surprised.

Besides the Mizukage were two other people, presumably her escorts. They were two blue-haired men. One looked much older than the other and had an eye patch on one of his eyes and the younger one was wearing glasses, ear protectors, and had a large bandaged sword on his back which briefly reminded Naruto of Kisame. They were both looking at Naruto's group as if closely evaluating them.

Sitting across from the mature woman was a large muscular man with blond hair combed back and a small mustache and goatee. He was dark-skinned and had a stern almost aggressive look on his eyes. Just like with the Mizukage, before him laid a hat with the Kanji for 'lightning' revealing him as the Raikage.

At his sides were two men; one fair-skinned with unruly blond hair, and the other, was a man that Naruto knew from quite a while ago, Darui. Said man shot the young Hokage a look of surprise. Naruto responded with a wide grin that made both the Raikage and Naruto's companions to send him an odd look. Still, anyone refrained from saying anything about it for the moment.

Finally, Naruto took notice of the old man sitting next to the Raikage. It was incredibly short, so much so that he barely reached over the table. But for such an old man he was sending Naruto a look that almost felt it could freeze even the inhabitants of this land. Behind him, one of his guards was a tall, plump boy around Naruto's age. And beside him was a middle-aged man with a bandana on his head. And while the man didn't have the sheer look of hate that the tiny old man displayed, he still sported a harsh look directed at the boy. Naruto almost didn't bother to check the kanji for 'earth' on the old man's hat as it was obvious to even him that he had to be the Tsuchikage.

'That's Kuro-chan's grandpa' Naruto couldn't help but gulp at the thought. This man was Kurotsuchi's grandfather. He was his girlfriend's family. But also was the man that had ordered his capture and eventual execution and hated him with all his being for being the Yondaime's son. Naruto had always heard that meeting your girlfriends family the first time was hard but he was willing to bet anything that no other boyfriend in history had to deal with such a complicated situation.

''Thanks for joining us at last, Kazekage-dono,'' said the bandaged man politely. ''But this is curious. I see Konoha ninja here but Tsunade-dono is not with you.''

''I'm afraid that Tsunade-sama won't be joining us,'' Informed Kakashi. ''We have elected a new Hokage in her stead.''

''And that would be me! Uzumaki Naruto, glad to meet you all!'' declared Naruto proudly.

The revelation took the nation leaders aback. They hadn't heard about Tsunade stepping down. That had to mean that Konoha had kept the succession secret or the new Hokage had been appointed very recently.

''What kind of joke is this?'' exclaimed the Tsuchikage, the look in his eyes becoming even darker. ''Now any snot-nosed greenhorn can become Kage? This is a disgrace to the honor of what it means to occupy our sacred position.'' It was already shameful for all Kages that the Kazekage was a brat, now the Hokage was an even greener amateur and just as young. And not only that, he was the Kyuubi Jinchuriki. Tsunade had been bad enough but now he had to deal with the son of the yellow flash as if they were something akin to equals? The situation would be laughable if it weren't something so delicate.

''What did-'' Naruto's rebuttal was cut short by Kakashi's firm grip on his shoulder.

''Take it easy, Naruto,'' Kakashi whispered in his student's ear. ''Remember that you are the Hokage. You represent the leadership of our village, so try to keep a level head at all times. From this point on I won't be able to help you in the meeting so please be mindful of all you do.'' Kakashi knew that Naruto would be a great leader one day but he would really have liked for the boy to get some experience before being thrust so soon into such a delicate diplomatic affair as this one. Still, they never had a choice and Naruto would simply have to pull through. All that was left for Kakashi was to have faith in his student.

''Hmph, see? He even has to be babysat by his own cohort. Shameful,'' Ohnoki scuffed.

Even Yugao and the elder sand siblings couldn't help but shoot a glare at the diminutive man. Just who did he think he was?

''Please Tsuchikage, stop antagonizing the young men. You are just postponing the meeting,'' said the Mizukage, to which Ohnoki simply huffed in indignation but still relented.

With the Tsuchikage silenced, Naruto and Gaara went to take their seats, with their bodyguards following behind them and silently thanking the Mizukage for silencing the old man.

''Now that everyone is here let me declare the start to this five Kage summit,'' announced the bandaged man. ''I'm Mifune and I'll be the neutral moderator of this meeting.''

''Then let's get down to it,'' said the Raikage sternly. ''I called you all here to talk about the threat of Akatsuki and to see where your loyalties lie regarding them.''

''What's that supposed to mean?'' Said Naruto.

''I'll say it in terms that even a simple-minded runt like you can understand,'' said the Raikage, ignoring the annoyed stare that Naruto was giving him. ''You all have ties to Akatsuki. To be honest, I don't trust any of you, snakes. I didn't even want to talk to you if I could avoid it. But the Akatsuki threat has gotten too big and now its time to set things straight.''

''What basis do you have for these accusations?'' said Gaara. ''Surely you would have heard by now how they kidnapped me and tried to extract the Shuukaku. If it hadn't been for Naruto's assistance here I would have surely died and had my tailed beast stolen. To say that I'm on friendly terms with such an organization is irrational.''

''Right!'' Added Naruto in indignation at the suggestion. ''Those bastards have attacked me and my village multiple times! There is no way I would ever work with them!''

''I hate to agree with these toddlers of a Kage but are you out of your mind, Raikage?'' said Ohnoki. ''Have you not heard about their recent attack on my village and how they stole my Jinchuuriki? I'm offended you can even suggest I'm in liege with those terrorists.''

''Quit your bullshit!'' The Raikage brought down his massive gauntlet on the wooden table in from of him, carving a hole clean through.

In the blink of an eye, all the bodyguards from all nations appeared in defensive formation in front of their respective Kage, wielding a battle stance and weapons at the ready to act at a moment's notice. Even some of the samurai had their hands on their swords.

The tension was palpable now. Everyone eyed each other waiting for any move that would warrant lethal force.

''My, everyone is so jumpy,'' said the Mizukage coyly. ''Chojuro, Ao, it's fine. Go back to your seats.''

''You too calm down, Kankuro, Temari,'' Gaara informed his siblings.

''You too guys,'' Naruto called back his sensei and ANBU guard.

Seeing that everyone else was backing down, the Tsuchikage and Raikage's escorts also returned to their place at the side of their masters.

''Please Raikage-dono, refrain from such reckless actions during the meeting,'' Torune scolded the large man. ''We are trying to have a civilized discussion.''

''I won't simply sit idly by while I'm being fed lies!'' said the Raikage. ''I know that all of you have used or held relations with Akatsuki in the past so don't come here crying innocent!''

He pointed at Gaara. ''Kazekage. It is pretty well known that Suna used the aid of Orochimaru, a former member of Akatsuki, in their war to destroy Konoha! It is unknown if he was still a member at the time but as far as I'm concerned that matters little. You still used a known criminal to further your goals to attain power by betraying an ally.''

Gaara simply stayed silent for the time being, letting the Raikage make his point.

He then turned to the Tsuchikage. ''You Ohnoki. I know that you have used the Akatsuki's mercenary services extensively in the past and don't you dare deny it! Who knows how many dirty deeds the Akatsuki have done on your behalf. How do we know that you didn't have a hand in the taking of the tailed beasts?!''

''Did all your brawn finally start to affect your brain, Raikage?'' Ohnoki seethed with rage. ''We had our own tailed beasts stolen too!''

''Bah, for all we know maybe you couldn't keep them under control and they ended up betraying you,'' the Raikage said.

''Why you-''

''And you, Hokage brat.'' the Raikage turned to Naruto next. ''Your village has the most members who have deflected to Akatsuki as far as we know: Uchiha Itachi, Uchiha Sasuke, Orochimaru; and those are the ones we know about, there could be more. Your village either has connections with Akatsuki or you are utterly incompetent from keeping your shinobi from becoming missing-nin. Honestly, I don't know which of the two is more pathetic.''

''What did you say?!'' Naruto exclaimed.

Again, the Raikage simply ignored the outrage from another fellow Kage and continued to the next.

''And finally you, Mizukage,'' said the Raikage. ''It is believed that Akatsuki was formed in Kiri. Along with the fact that you have no diplomatic relations with other villages make you very suspicious.''

The Mizukage actually looked burdened by the Raikage's words as she got pensive.

''It's true that our former Mizukage, our Yondaime Yagura, was suspected of being manipulated. We personally believe that Akatsuki was to blame, and maybe there were ties with Akatsuki and our nation in the past if our suspicions are true but Yagura's reign is in the past,'' the Mizukage said with conviction. ''Yes, we don't have diplomatic ties with other countries yet thanks to Yagura's hand in isolating us but I'm working into fixing that in the future.''

''Don't act like you have nothing to be blamed for, Raikage,'' said Ohnoki at last. ''These are times of peace, times for disarmament. Yet, you continued to amass military might as if readying yourself for another confrontation. You left other nations with no choice but to also seek military growth. Other nations had to use Akatsuki for several of their most dangerous and delicate missions as they couldn't afford to risk their own militia. So as far as I'm concerned you are the reason the Akatsuki were so enticing to hire.''

''The Tsuchikage is right in this regard,'' said the Mizukage. ''You couldn't expect the other countries to sit by while you grew in power, did you? Especially since we knew that you couldn't be trusted to not use your power to slight other nations. Just look back at the failed Hyuga kidnapping affair a few years back for proof.''

''What my father did during his rule is no concern of mine,'' said the Raikage.

''What an asinine way to clean your hands of any fault,'' said Ohnoki.

''You are one to talk, shifting the blame to me just because I'm doing what any shinobi nation worth anything would do and continue to strengthen ourselves,'' said the Raikage. ''Is not my fault you are cowards shivering before my might.''

''Enough of this!'' exclaimed Naruto in exasperation, grabbing everyone's attention. ''We shouldn't be fighting amongst ourselves. The Akatsuki are the real enemy here. Don't you see we are on the same side here?!''

''Same side you say?'' Repeated the Raikage. ''As far as I'm concerned everyone is playing for their own side.''

''Also, don't go putting us together, tree-hugger,'' said the Tsuchikage. ''Like I would team up with Konoha.''

''Naruto is correct,'' added Gaara. ''All this is foolish. We should come together and form a strategy. The Akatsuki have already proven that separated we are vulnerable but working together we have a chance.''

''I get what you are saying, Hokage, Kazekage. And it isn't like I'm personally against the idea,'' said the Mizukage. ''But what you are proposing is basically a five-nation ninja alliance. Such a thing has never been done before. I can't even begin to imagine the complications it would cause with the disarray of not having a protocol for this and not to mention the tension between the ninja of our villages. I doubt most of our shinobi would be too happy to work with other nations when they feel they can't trust their allies. Honestly, it sounds like an extreme measure. It will be a while before the Akatsuki are able to use the Bijuu. They will have to find suitable hosts and infants on top of that if they want to properly control them, so why not wait before resorting to involving everyone?''

''The Akatsuki are not a bunch of amateurs,'' said Gaara. ''They can't have expected that the nations wouldn't want them to answer for taking their Jinchuuriki so they must have a way to put them to use right away even if we don't know what it is. In fact, I argue that exactly because we don't know what they are capable of doing with them that is even more imperative that we stop them as fast as possible. Besides, everyone is already involved, the Akatsuki have wronged each end everyone here and our homes so we are already in their sight.''

''I too, agree with the sentiment,'' said Mifune, diverting the attention to him. ''I also think that an alliance between the villages would be in everyone's best interests. I know that some of you would object, but this is only while we deal with the Akatsuki threat. In turn, I also offer the aid of the full might of the samurai forces of the Land of Iron. Are these conditions agreeable? Raikage?''

Mifune turned to the leader of Kumo, looking at him intently to make him ponder his answer.

The Raikage rolled his eyes and let out a huff of resignation. He hated to admit it, but they did have a point. He did want to get back at the Akatsuki for messing with him and taking his brother along with Yugito before him. ''Fine. If the rest of these weaklings agree to it I'll go along with it. But only until the Akatsuki is done for.''

Nodding in understanding, Mifune turned to the Mizukage.

''As I said I have nothing against joining forces. If this is the best course of action, Kiri will also give their full support,'' said the pretty woman.

Then, Mifune regarded the Kazekage.

''I accept this ninja alliance. Suna will give its full support too,'' said Gaara without a second thought.

''Hokage?'' Asked Mifune now that Gaara had cemented his position.

''Count me in. We'll definitely help get rid of Akatsuki!'' said Naruto.

''I see,'' said Mifune before finally turning to Ohnoki. ''And what about you, Tsuchikage?''

The short man let silence set in as he glared coldly at the Hokage. After a minute he finally gave an answer.

''I refuse.''

''What?!'' Naruto inquired in shock while the rest of the Kages stared in anticipation. Even Mifune was listening intently to what the Tsuchikage had to say.

''You heard me. I refuse to work with Konoha and with the son of the yellow flash no less,'' sneered Ohnoki. ''I'd rather be dead than cooperate with that detestable runt.''

Naruto grinded his teeth. Now he knew where Kurotsuchi had gotten her attitude from. However, rather than blow up, Naruto took a deep breath to compose himself before continuing. ''I knew this wasn't gonna be easy. So I want to take this chance to talk about some things with you if everyone is alright with it.'' Naruto had been intending to patch things up in any way he could with the Tsuchikage and it was now or never.

''Talk some things you say?'' repeated Ohnoki.

''Very well,'' said Mifune. ''I'll let you use this meeting as a chance to work things out. However, I implore you to be mindful of everyone's time here.''

''So you want to talk things through?'' said Ohnoki mockingly, almost incredulously. He couldn't believe how naive this silly boy was to think he could simply solve things between them by talking for a bit but the notion was too ridiculous it was amusing so he humored him. ''Then go ahead. Talk.''

Naruto sighed. He slid a hand down the largest pouch on his coat before he pulled out a rather large bag that had the Tsuchikage's guards tense up in anticipation of foul play.

''Take it easy. This isn't a trap, I swear,'' said Naruto as he put the bag over the table.

Not trusting the word of the blond, Ohnoki signaled Kitsuchi.

Kitsuchi nodded obediently and carefully went over to the other side of the table and carefully took the bag. He shot Naruto a wary glance before he gently opened it.

''What the- this is...'' Kitsuchi's words died in his throat as he looked at the contents, much to the curiosity of everyone else present.

''What is it, Kitsuchi?'' Ohnoki demanded to know.

''You should take a look at this,'' said Kitsuchi. he went back and handed his father the bag.

The Tsuchikage took it tentatively and promptly opened it. He widened his eyes at the sight of a large stack of cash inside. He pulled a handful of it out to examine it its authenticity which only served to confuse the onlookers that wondered what was the money for. However, the Tsuchikage needed no explanation of what it was. He knew perfectly what the money was for, or rather what it was supposed to be as he didn't have a clue why the Hokage was giving it back.

''What is the meaning of this?'' asked Ohnoki, still confused. ''What do you intend to do?''

''What it looks like. I'm giving it back,'' said Naruto.

Ohnoki stared long and hard at Naruto. ''Does this mean that our arrangement is over? Or rather, the arrangement I had with Tsunade?''

''Yeah, it's over,'' confirmed Naruto.

''What are you trying to pull here?'' Ohnoki narrowed his eyes dangerously. ''Does this mean that you won't continue to ensure my granddaughter's safety? Or are you trying to trade my cooperation for her wellbeing? Is that it?!''

''What?! No way, I would never do that!'' Naruto said. To say that he would dare put Kurotsuchi at harm to make a point, the mere notion was unthinkable. ''I just don't want to keep taking your money! Is just not right! I don't need you to pay me to keep your granddaughter safe!''

''How generous of you,'' the Tsuchikage mocked him. ''Do you think me so naive as to believe such nonsense?''

''Why would it be hard to believe?! I want to repair relations so it would only be natural for me to do something like this!'' Naruto shot back.

''How long do you think I've been doing this?!'' said Ohnoki. ''Even before you were born I was many years Tsuchikage at that point, you stupid boy. Like I would believe your word. Kurotsuchi is one of the ninja we sent for your head. Probably if you had your way you would have her executed and she hates your kind just the same. Obviously the only reason you don't is to respect the previous arrangement I had with Tsunade. You expect me to believe that you don't feel resentment at all for that and you will give me your word to keep her safe? Don't make me laugh. You are the last person I would trust to keep her unharmed.''

Naruto clenched his fists. Having the Tsuchikage relentlessly talk about him abusing Kurotsuchi was doing quick work on his temper by the minute. ''You are wrong...''

Ohnoki didn't let up, however. ''Without the payment you have no incentive to keep your word. You could easily try to fool me into helping you while you throw her body in a ditch somewhere-''

''Shut up! I'd die before laying a finger on Kuro-chan!'' Naruto's outburst silenced the entire room, garnering all kinds of odd looks from everyone.

Gaara and his siblings raised an eyebrow at the blond's reaction. They knew that he had befriended the girl but this reaction was quite extreme.

While the Raikage and one of his companions, C, weren't particularly thrilled by the exchange, Darui on the other hand, was trying to piece together what was happening here. He had been surprised to hear that both Naruto and Kurotsuchi were still getting involved together and that was suspicious. He wasn't totally sure what was happening here but if his earlier assumption when he first met Naruto was correct he guessed that it was nothing good. Naruto just seemed like the type to get himself involved in all sorts of bizarre trouble.

''Kuro-chan?'' mused Ohnoki in shock. What was with that nickname for Kurotsuchi? And what was the deal with the Kyuubi's reaction? Was he implying that he cared about her?

Even the usually absent-minded Akatsuchi had been taken aback by the exchange. This was a weird response from the Hokage.

Kitsuchi especially was wondering what the deal was with the yellow flash's son. What had he just called his daughter?

Naruto realized too late that he had slipped up. However, there was no going back now. He now had no choice but to explain himself. Leaving out the most important part of his relationship with Kurotsuchi of course.

Naruto took a deep breath and started explaining himself before the Tsuchikage could start his rant again. ''I know that logically, you have no reason to trust me. I know that reasonably I should have no interest in keeping her safe in your eyes. But she is not some enemy Kunoichi to me. I spent a lot of time getting to know her and I have come to see not only how great of a ninja she is but also how great of a person she is.''

Unlike her two guards, the Mizukage was enthralled in the conversation now. It was very endearing to hear the way the young Hokage talked about this Kunoichi, who appeared to be the granddaughter of Ohnoki no less. The affection he expressed seemed too genuine and warm that if she didn't know any better she would say that they were in love. But no one would be so irresponsible as to fall in love with the enemy and risk international conflict. Still, it was fun to think of this as one of the romance novels that she totally didn't cry herself to sleep reading despite what Ao said.

However, Naruto's companions couldn't say that they shared the Mizukage's enthusiasm.

Kakashi did his best effort to hide the sweat rolling down his brow. He hoped that Naruto chose his words wisely. Any misconstrued word could spell disaster.

Yugao was even worse off. She cursed the gods that seemed to like to torment her. Why did she always have to be in the front seat to witness these things? If everything was going to go to hell anyway she would rather remain ignorant of it if only for her peace of mind.

''I would do anything for my friends,'' Naruto continued. ''And she has become a dear friend to me. It might be hard for you to believe me but when I say that I have the best intentions for her I mean it.''

Like his father, Kitsuchi tried to put together what was going on here. The boy could be lying, and most likely was, but to his credit, he did a damn well job in sounding sincere. But he knew that his father would not let himself be taken for a fool. He himself felt apprehensive and offended that the boy could even suggest that Kurotsuchi would befriend him. But maybe she had fooled the boy into thinking she was his friend to get some sort of advantage while she was in Konoha. Kitsuchi wouldn't put it past her to use such a strategy.

Ohnoki stared at Naruto directly in the eye. What the Kyuubi boy was saying was preposterous. He and Kurotsuchi friends? A Konoha ninja and son of their worst enemy having the best of intentions for her? Unlikely. Not to mention that the Kurotsuchi he knew would never associate herself with a Konoha ninja much less her mission target. Everything had to be a ridiculous lie, it had to be. But surprisingly he could not detect any lies or ill intent coming from the boy which only made him angrier. But maybe he could use this and turn the situation in their favor.

''You say that you are friends? I find that hard to believe,'' said Ohnoki. ''And you claim that you have her best interests at heart?''

''That's what I'm saying and yes we are friends!'' Naruto shot back.

''I'm not convinced but I'll give you a chance to prove yourself,'' said the Tsuchikage.

Naruto was surprised momentarily but quickly cheered up. If the Tsuchikage was willing to give him a chance to prove that he was truthful he would gladly take it. ''Alright then! Tell me what I have to do to convince you.''

''It is very simple,'' said Ohnoki. ''Just give her back.''

Naruto's heart felt like it skipped a beat. ''What?''

''You heard me,'' repeated the Tsuchikage. ''If you really do care for her as you say then let her go back to her home. No more monthly ransoms and no more keeping her as a bargaining chip. That's what is best for her.''

Kitsuchi smiled at his dad. If this worked, they could get Kurotsuchi back. He barely even cared to take Konoha's main way to blackmail them, he simply wanted his daughter back safe and sound at his side.

Kakashi and Yugao stared at Naruto anxiously. They couldn't say that they were surprised by the Tsuchikage's demands but they didn't know if Naruto had been ready to give up Kurotsuchi just yet.

''Well?'' Ohnoki pressed the issue.

Naruto was having a hard time formulating any thought. The demand had taken him off guard but in retrospect, what had he expected? Of course that would be the first thing they would want. Still, he had failed to consider it. ''I...''

''What an interesting reunion we have here.''

All the Inhabitants of the room snapped their attention to a masked man perched on one of the ceiling beams casually looking down on them.

''Akatsuki!'' Yelled the Raikage upon noticing the man's robes.

''You bastard! Who are you!?'' Naruto added.

''How could you enter this place?!'' Mifune said.

Everyone readied themselves to engage in battle, with one samurai sending a beam of chakra with a swing of his blade, only for the attack to pass through the man and destroy a portion of the wall behind him.

''It's useless. Your attacks cannot harm me,'' said the man.

''Are you here to take the Bijuu?!'' Kankuro asked in rage. It would not be weird for Akatsuki to try. After all, they had two tailed beasts with them present.

''What business do you have with us?'' asked Kakashi. ''I'm guessing you had a good motive to give away your presence.''

''Indeed,'' said the Akatsuki. ''I'm simply here to talk so I had no reason to conceal myself.''

''We have nothing to talk with you!'' said the Raikage. ''I want my brother back! If you don't, I'll tear you apart limb from limb!''

''Your brother? How curious. It seems like you have not realized it yet,'' said the man. ''The Hachibi escaped our grasp due to an oversight from the one tasked to capture him. Even I don't know where he is now.''

''What did you say?'' exclaimed the Raikage. If what the Akatsuki bastard said was true, then Killer B had used the chance to escape from the village! The mere thought left the Raikage fuming. Oh, how he would make his brother lament worrying him that he will make him wish the Akatsuki had really taken him.

''Whatever the case you still haven't answered our question,'' said the Mizukage. ''Just who are you and what do you want with the tailed beasts?''

''If you must know, fine I'll tell you,'' said the man. ''I'm the one you know as Uchiha Madara.''

Several gasps were heard in the room at the revelation.

''Uchiha Madara?'' mused Yugao. Was it possible that he really was the legendary Madara?

''That's impossible!'' said Ohnoki. ''Uchiha Madara is long dead. I met him before and you seem nothing like the Madara of old to me!''

''Whether you believe me or not I don't care. It's true that my powers aren't what they used to be but I assure you that I'm Madara,'' said the supposed Madara.

''Fine. Let's say that you are Uchiha Madara. What do you hope to accomplish by gathering the Bijuu?'' asked Gaara.

''To unite everyone,'' said Madara cryptically. ''I'll use the power of the tailed beasts to cast a Genjutsu so powerful that it will affect the entire world.''

''You'll what?! What are you trying to do with that?!'' Naruto yelled at him.

''To bring peace to this world,'' said Madara. ''Under the Infinite Tsukuyomi all senseless wars would stop, all pointless deaths would be avoided from that day forward. Everyone in the world would live in an illusion inside their own mind, a perfect fantasy created by each individual. This will become a peaceful world with everyone living their own perfect life inside their own minds. It will truly be a paradise.''

''Are you insane? You call that a paradise?!'' Naruto shot back.

''You will eradicate all free will. The entire world would simply be a slave to your Genjutsu!'' said Ohnoki.

''You'll think we'll just sit idly by while you do whatever you want with our minds?!'' said the Raikage.

''You are just a bunch relics from a war-ridden world. I wasn't expecting you to understand my views,'' said Madara. ''I just came here to explain my reasons and to give you one last chance to turn the remaining tailed beasts to me peacefully.''

''You are out of your mind if you think we'll give you what you want,'' said Ohnoki.

''You preach peace but have brought unmeasurable suffering to countless people to achieve your goal. Someone like you would never bring peace to the world,'' said Gaara,

''That was the only warning I will give you. Don't say that I didn't give you a chance to avoid what is to come for you,'' said Madara before vanishing away into a spiraling dimension, leaving behind several distraught shinobi behind.


Tobi got out of the vortex, landing on a hill on a lush green field overlooking a dense forest, now miles away from the Land of Iron and the Kages after his blood.

''How did your little incursion go?'' asked Zetsu, appearing out from the ground already waiting for the masked man.

''Pretty much how we thought it would. It would have been too much to expect the ones who propagate the injustice of our shinobi world to want change,'' said Tobi.

''But was it a good idea to provoke them at this juncture?'' said black Zetsu. ''We are still missing three tailed beasts. Our military power is not yet where we want it to be.''

''We have part of the chakra of the Hachibi and the Ichibi. It is not optimal but it should be enough to use the Gedo Mazo,'' said Tobi. ''Besides, I don't believe that they will work together just yet.''

''What do you mean by that? You have something in mind?'' white Zetsu inquired.

''Tensions seem to be high among them,'' explained Tobi. ''If we make our moves right we can make their entire alliance crumble down before it even begins.''

''You seem confident. It would be correct to assume that you have a plan already?'' said black Zetsu.

''Indeed I have,'' said Tobi ominously.

''Tobi!''

Before he could explain himself, the leader of Akatsuki directed his attention to another member of his organization.

''Deidara. I didn't know you were here,'' said Tobi. ''Did you want something?''

The mad bomber jumped down from a branch and landed in front of the masked man, glaring heatedly at him.

''I want to know if it is true?!'' Deidara demanded.

''Elaborate,'' ordered Tobi, genuinely confused at why Deidara looked downright murderous right now.

''I'm referring to what you talked with the old man and the rest of those good-for-nothing Kages!'' yelled Deidara. ''What is that shit about casting a Genjutsu over the world?!''

Tobi widened his lone visible eye and even Zetsu's both halves seemed shocked to hear Deidara mention the eye of the moon plan that they had been careful to hide even from most of their members.

''How did you hear about that?'' Tobi narrowed his eye.

Deidara simply pointed to one of Tobi's sleeves and realization dawned on the masked man when he noticed a small clay bug coming out from his sleeve.

''I see,'' mused Tobi, so he had been listening

in. ''How did you put this on me?''

''I've been watching you closely. I know that you like to make us think that nothing can touch you but you have a time limit for how long at a time you can be invulnerable, am I right?'' Deidara didn't usually use his art for anything other than blowing stuff up but if need be he could use small clay figures to spy for him.

Tobi glared at Deidara. So now the mad bomber knew a bit more of his abilities and did his research behind his back. He was starting to have his doubts on how reliable Deidara really was.

''You asshole. You never said anything about any doomsday Genjutsu!'' yelled Deidara.

''You never objected to Nagato's plan to use use the Bijuu as a weapon of mass destruction. So we are threatening the world in other ways, why does it matter to you now?'' asked Tobi.

''Is true that I never particularly cared for the world's well being but I could respect blowing shit up in masse,'' explained Deidara. ''But I never signed up to end as some sort of zombie under a Genjutsu!''

''You would live in a paradise of your own making, a world specially made to realize your dreams,'' said Tobi. ''The eye of the moon plan was made for peace.''

''Yeah, inside my mind!'' Deidara retorted. ''I want my art to be remembered forever, by real people! Not by delusions inside my own head fooling myself that I amounted to jack shit like some loser!''

''What are you getting at then?'' asked Tobi, preparing a Kunai under his sleeve if this was going where he thought it was.

''I'm out, that's what I'm saying,'' Deidara declared.

''So you are betraying me like Konan and Nagato,'' said Tobi with a dangerous tone.

''This is getting hairy. I should get out of here just in case,'' Thought Zetsu in anticipation for a battle. If the conflict escalated he didn't want to be caught in the crossfire so without anything more to add, he disappeared beneath the ground.

''The way I see it, I'm the one betrayed here. I didn't sign up for this,'' Deidara flipped him off. ''That moon eye plan of yours or whatever its called, you can shove- ack!''

Deidara looked down to see an open palm coming out his chest. He turned his head to see Tobi behind him as the other one vanished in thin air. ''You piece of shit.'' So he had substituted himself with a basic clone at some point. He should have guessed that the bastard wasn't going to let him go just like that.

''I won't tolerate deserters, Still, I commend you for your service until now. You were a valuable asset but I'm afraid you have outlived your usefulness.'' Tobi buried his arm deeper into Deidara's torso, eliciting a cry of agony. ''Now you die.''

However, Deidara's grimace of anguish turned into a mocking grin. ''Right back at ya!''

The mad bomber's body shifted in color and turned white and Tobi barely had time to widen his eyes in realization before the clay sculpture detonated in his face.

Deidara glanced back, grabbing ahold of his giant clay bird tighter as he witnessed the ball of fire and smoke that his little escape stunt had caused. As he soared the skies he thought about what his next plan of action was going to be. As good as it would be to think that Tobi had died with his clay clone he knew better than to underestimate the Uchiha. No, something like that wasn't nearly enough to get rid of him, so now the question was what he had to do. One thing was for sure though, he wasn't going to let Tobi ensnare him in a fucking Genjutsu that would trap him inside his own mind for a lifetime.

After careful consideration, he could only come up with one place where he may be able to be safe for the time being. Hopefully, his old comrade would lend him a hand.


''Who does he think he is?! Coming here and making demands of us!'' The Raikage slammed his fist on the table, marring it with another hole. ''He is just a common criminal, scum!''

''Still, what he said about that plan of his is worrying,'' the Mizukage added. ''If he can pull it off he will have the whole world at his mercy.''

''I still have my doubts about who he says he is but if he really is Madara things could get ugly,'' said Ohnoki. ''I know what I'm talking about, I personally met that monster in his prime. If he has even just a small part of his former power he is trouble.''

''Not to mention that if he is Madara he has immediate use of the tailed beasts,'' said Gaara. ''This would only confirm our worst fears. Madara was known to be able to control the Bijuu. If the Akatsuki is able to control them at will this could spell disaster for all nations.''

''Madara or not he came here and personally threatened us and told us he was going to control the world!'' exclaimed Naruto. ''Regardless of who he is, we have to take him out as soon as we can!''

''Enough, all of you!'' Mifune ordered, momentarily putting a stop to their bickering. ''Please keep calm, especially during these times. We have to think things through.''

Mifune eyed each one of them until the disputes finally settled down and the room was calm once more.

Mifune took a deep breath before continuing. ''These recent developments have served to show us that the Akatsuki threat is very real and we would be fools to take it lightly. Even if we can't confirm that the identity of that individual was really Uchiha Madara, the fact that he managed to sneak in into our summing with several high-class warriors here is a testament of how dangerous he is not to mention that weird intangibility and teleportation he has. Now more than ever it is imperative that all nations come together to fight this enemy. So I ask you all again, will you be willing to form an alliance?''

The Kages regarded each other silently. Each one of them contemplating their answer.

After a moment, Naruto broke the silence.

''You don't have to convince me. I was willing from the very start,'' said Naruto.

''Same. This is no time for petty disagreements. We have to act together,'' said Gaara.

''This is unorthodox but I too believe that an alliance is best,'' concluded the Mizukage.

The Raikage was more reluctant than the three previous leaders but he still relented. ''Fine. I'll agree to work together just this time. The Akatsuki can't be allowed to get away with this.''

Everyone waited expectantly for the Tsuchikage's response who simply turned to look at Naruto sternly.

''My choice still stands,'' said Ohnoki. ''I want my granddaughter back if you want any hope of this ridiculous alliance coming to fruition.''

Naruto felt deflated. He had suddenly forgotten about that.

''Do you really have to be so difficult, Tsuchikage?'' the Mizukage said. ''We are wasting time here. Can't you settle your issues after we dealt with the Akatsuki?''

''I just want my granddaughter. What I'm asking is not unreasonable.'' Ohnoki turned back to Naruto. ''Prove to me that what you say is true. If you really care for Kurotsuchi's wellbeing and the possibility of any alliance I want her back with us in Iwa.''

Naruto sat back down and contemplated on the choice laid before him. He had to send Kutosuchi back to Iwa? He knew that she would have to leave eventually. It wasn't as if they were going to keep her there forever but for the day to actually make the choice to have come so unexpectedly was monetarily filling the blond with doubts.

He pictured the face of the girl he loved, and all the times they had spent together; their training sessions, their meals together, their first kiss. He felt he was losing all those moments along with Kurotsuchi.

But he had promised, he had swore that to her that he would find a way to get her back home and the solution was staring it right in the face and he was hesitating. He hated it. He hated himself so much right now for finding it so hard to make the right choice!

Anticipation was building in the room for the Hokage's answer while the hurt reflected on the blond's face served to worry his friends and disgust the Iwa ninja

"All right,"

"So you agree to my terms?" asked Ohnoki.

"I do," Naruto answered, resignated to the circumstances. "I'll arrange her trip as soon as I get back."

Ohnoki nodded triumphantly. "I better be hearing from you soon then."

Kitsuchi breathed a sigh of relief. It felt as if a huge burden had been taken off his shoulders. The thought of Kurotsuchi back with him at home filled him with longing. Still, it was still to be seen if the Hokage would actually deliver on his promises but at the very least he could see a light at the end of the tunnel.

The Kumo ninja were glad that this nonsense had been settled and they could go back to more important matters and while the Kiri ninja weren't as brash in their opinion of the situation they were also looking forward to get things into motion.

Gaara and his siblings shot Naruto a look of sympathy. They didn't know exactly how close Naruto and the Iwa Kunoichi were but it was clear that the decision had been hard for their friend.

Yugao and Kakashi also spared a concerned glance at Naruto. They could understand his pain the best out of everyone there as they knew the full extent of Kurotsuchi and Naruto's relationship. But they had already prepared themselves mentally for the eventuality of Kurotsuchi leaving them even if they would miss the fiery girl. They just hoped that Naruto didn't take it too badly.

''Not that things have been settled I recommend that you all go back to your respective nations and begin any preparations you have to make,'' announced Mifune. ''I know that there are still some doubts amongst yourselves so I won't force you to elect a leader for this alliance right now. However, I urge you to think impartially and logically of someone who should lead you and I recommend you do it fast. I'll contact you all soon for the next meeting.''

Naruto was barely listening to what Mifune was saying. He stared hard at the table in front of him and clenched his fists in frustration. He was distressed but also disappointed in himself. He had known that Kurotsuchi was going to leave him someday, heck he had promised her he would get her back home. But to actually send her off and having the possibility of not seeing her for a very long time if ever left him feeling lost. She not only had become the person he loved the most but also his family. She had taught him how it felt to come back home to someone waiting eagerly for you. And now he would be alone again.

It hurt. Having to say goodbye to the girl he loved and being the one to send her away personally was pure anguish. He hated being selfish. He had to think of what was best for her and not what he wanted, and she deserved to be with her family, in her nation. Despite that, he couldn't help but want her there at his side. There were so many more thoughts swirling inside his head but he tried to contain them. Right now he was the Hokage, he couldn't afford to break down in front of the other nations. This is what Gaara had warned him about earlier. These were the kind of choices he would have to make from now on if he was to be the Hokage. He would have to do what was best for everyone without mattering how he felt about it. He never thought he would say this, but right now he didn't feel like being Hokage.

Author's notes:

I was struggling with writer's block for a long time. Even now I still kinda am. But I kept postponing this more and more thinking it was no big deal. 'I have gone for months sorting my thoughts before' I said to myself. 'The next chapter will eventually come to me' I thought.

It wasn't until I realized that an entire year without updates had passed that I finally said 'no more excuses' and sat my ass down and forced myself to think and write the next chapters.

sorry for the long wait. I'm writing the next chapter now and I hope to have it relatively soon.

Also, I'm responding to PMs again. I deeply apologize for not answering those anymore but I didn't want to give you guys false hope that I was back only to disappoint you with no new chapters on the horizon. So, I refrained from saying anything until I made sure I had this chapter ready, so I promise that I'll respond back once more.