Disclaimer: - I, SSG-Goku3397, do not own Naruto and any related matter. It all belongs to Kishimoto, the original brain behind the character Naruto. The only thing that I do own is the plot of this story and any original jutsu, seals, concepts and OC's that are present within the story.


A/N: Answer to a Review: -

Guest007, Review for Chapter 6, October 3rd: - Now I'm seeing that most of the people are more interested in pairing Naruto with Hinata more than to develop the story. I will say Naruto X Sakura will be lot better for this particular story or "no pairing" will be much more better. Because Naruto and Sakura are in this time travel together and have a lot, years of bonding between them. Although I prefer "No Pairing" would be better.

Now a days I noticed people come to fanfiction and demand their favorite pairing to the author and if it's gets fulfilled they like that story despite it has good content or not and if not fulfilled they will say bad things about it despite how well written that story is. people of current generation can't get's past their selfish mindset and sex. That's all they know while reading fanfiction, al lest most of the people, I will say 95% of them. And by doing that these people completely neglect the very core foundation of Naruto series and the idea behind Naruto's Character, who naruto is or what he wanted to be.

Now I think that stadium is too small for all this fight to happen there, especially with gai's all gate released.

Thank you for the review. Now to the case of the stadium being too small, I think that making everyone underestimate Naruto's true power without even using Kurama's power was an interesting way to go. Everyone decided to showcase Kurama's power, not Naruto's own. I went a little different. Besides, as you read, I had Naruto quickly finish the fight as soon as Gai released the gates. Gai's character is known to go overboard when he is excited. This was just another such case.


A/N: Thanks for all the reviews everyone! I really appreciate them!:)
Though it would have been better if I got more reviews.


"Thoughts / Telepathic Speech"

"Speech"

Letters / Jutsu notes


Chapter 6 – A step towards the Future

Kakashi and Sasuke were sitting on the porch of Naruto's house looking at the koi pond while waiting for their blonde haired teammate to get ready for the party the Fire Daimyō and the Hokage were jointly hosting. Sakura had already entered the house to make sure that Naruto did not try to wear something inappropriate.

Sasuke was wearing a formal navy kimono with the Uchiha crest proudly displayed on his back. Around the kimono sleeves, embroideries of golden flames were glowing in the fading light of the sun. Beside him, Kakashi was wearing a formal variant of his Ninja uniform. Over the uniform, he wore a grey haori with the Hatake clan crest embroidered on the back.

"Kakashi may I ask you a question?" Sasuke asked with curiosity. Kakashi stared at his student with his single eye before nodding.

"Sure thing Sasuke, what do you want to know?"

"Did all of you really give it your all, or was it planned to show Naruto as one of the most powerful shinobi of the village?"

Kakashi hummed of a few moments before saying, "Kurenai, Anko, Neko, and Tora underestimated him, so was unable to fully showcase their abilities against him, with Tora showing about seventy percent of their abilities. Only Gai and I gave it our all, well our all that would not have ended up with us dead in the end. Even then, Naruto easily defeated us with ease. I will bet my Icha Icha collection that we did not even phase him. In fact, I doubt that Naruto even showed a quarter of his true abilities. Then there was his speed. It reminded me of Minato-sensei and his Hiraishin, just but without the seals. I cannot even fathom how much more powerful he will become by the time the Chunin Exams come by in six months."

"I see. He really is at a level that is unreachable by most shinobi, isn't he?" Sasuke stated with sadness.

"My summons has said that even in the Summons World, he is an interesting subject. From what Pakkun said, Gamamaru-sama, the Ōgama Sennin said, Naruto is more talented than the Rikudō Sennin was and he is progressing at a level that makes us prodigies look like toddlers. From what I can see, Naruto learns by doing something, not by reading about it like us. Then again, it may have been a ruse to hide his abilities. Remember this Sasuke, while Naruto's strength seems unattainable and to a certain degree, it is, but he reached this height by himself, just as Sakura has. You and I have a lot of hard work to be able to keep up with them. If we do this right, our Team may become the next standard for teams just as the Ino-Shika-Cho formation and the Sannin were before Orochimaru betrayed us."

"I understand what you mean Kakashi. We should not ignore any advice Naruto gives us. Without even trying, he helped me activate the Sharingan in a single training session, then helping me master the Tree Walking Exercise and the Water Walking Exercise in the minimum amount of time. If this keeps up long enough we may have to start calling him Naruto-sensei!" Sasuke said with a small chuckle causing Kakashi to look at the former Avenger in shock.

Before Kakashi could say anything, the duo heard the sound of a shoji door sliding open. They turned around and saw Saukra walking out in her crimson red kimono with sakura petal embroidery done in silver thread. A simple hair clip made of blue crystal held her bangs away from her face. Surprisingly, unlike they expected, Sakura had only minor makeup applied to her face. Her lips painted a pale pink. Following her was Naruto wearing the white kimono he wore when his heritage was revealed.

"Shouldn't you wear something else Naruto? In high society, wearing the same formal clothes does not look good." Kakashi said getting a surprised look from Sasuke.

"First sensei, I was an orphan with no one to teach me that. Second, I do not have any other formal clothing that will fit me. Finally, this was commissioned by my mother, so it has some sentimental value added to it." Naruto stated in matter of fact tone causing Kakashi to nod in realization.

"What do you mean you don't have any other formal clothes? As a Clan Heir, you will need many more formal clothing, especially since the Uzumaki are a Royal Clan."

"I learned about my heritage just recently, officially. Besides, I have been busy studying my clan history, clan jutsu, and developing the new style of manipulating the elements. I did not have enough time to go shopping. In addition, until now, most of the shops had denied me access before. I do not know if they will allow now, and if I will even shop in those shops. Either all my previous clothes were gifted to me, picked up from dumpsters, or I was overcharged. I was unable to buy food as well. Some were kind enough to throw me some leftovers and the Ichiraku, who always welcomed me in their shop. Therefore, you tell me, do you think I grew up thinking different outfits were a necessity?" Naruto stated to Sasuke and Sakura's surprise. Kakashi looked down at the confirmation of his suspicions.

"Then why do you want to even protect the people who have treated you like this? Why not take revenge?" Sasuke said with anger. "You have the Kyūbi's power and your own. I am sure that you can easily erase Konoha from the surface of the world!"

"Revenge isn't everything. Yes I can take revenge, but what would happen after that? It would leave me hollow and filled the world with more hatred. In addition, I do not want to become like them. Hate them for hating what they do not understand. It is in human nature to hate that we do not understand. Now let us leave the past in the past. We should think about the future and live in the present."


Team 7 was walking down the road towards the Hokage Mansion when Team 8, Team 9, and Team 10 met up with them. Each of them was wearing formal clothing. The Sensei of each of the teams was wearing formal uniforms with Asuma wearing a medallion with the Fire Daimyō's crest engraved on it. Beside him, Kurenai was wearing a blood red short kimono with a large sakura tree embroidered on it. Gai was Gai, wearing a formal variant of his usual spandex uniform with the addition of his Jōnin Vest and a blue haori with the kanji for Beast embroidered on the back.

Team 8 was dressed in formal kimonos that were common in their clans. Hinata was wearing an ornate sky blue kimono that was similar to the robes Naruto had seen Hiashi wear in the council meeting, only designed for a female. Beside her, Shino was wearing a high-collared forest green kimono that hid his face, his eyes hidden behind his sunglasses. Kiba was wearing a brown and silver kimono that showed off a portion of his chest.

From Team 9, Lee copied Gai with his haori holding the kanji for Beast in Training. Tenten was wearing a white qipao with a black dragon motif. Her hair pulled up in her usual buns. Beside her, Neji was wearing a more ornate version of his usual robes.

From Team 10, Shikamaru was complaining about wearing the black and grey formal kimono his mother had forced him to wear. Beside him, Chōji was munching on bag of chips wearing a formal version of his usual uniform. Finally, Ino was wearing a dark purple kimono with a lot of make up on her face and her platinum blonde hair in a high ponytail.

"Hey everyone!" Naruto called out the attention of the other teams. After greeting each other, Ino asked the question floating around most of the Genin's minds.

"Why were we invited to this banquet?"

Nearly everyone shrugged, showing that none of them knew the reason. For some reason, Ino saw Team 7 and the rest of the Jōnin Sensei not reacting to her question. "Asuma-sensei, you know something, right?"

"It should be obvious Ino. Most of you are heirs' members of prominent clans. Then there are Tenten, Sakura, and Lee. Each of them are showing potential that is rare even among prominent ninja clans with Tenten's marksmanship, Sakura's position as the youngest fully certified combat iryōnin, and Lee's mastery of taijutsu that allowed him to pass the Academy even though he can't use chakra externally. These qualities always draw the attention of the nobles." Asuma said before Kurenai interrupted.

"You as the ones they will hire in the future. Your skills and your behavior are what they will be looking at. Know this; you are representing Konoha as a whole, not just your Clans and families, so we expect all of you to be on your best behavior."

"Besides, the Hokage and the Fire Daimyō, as a thank you to the foreign dignitaries for coming this far just to view a short half an hour evaluation arranged this banquet and so that they could personally meet Naruto." Sasuke said getting surprised looks from the rest of the Genin.

"What do you mean to meet Naruto? Then why were we invited?" Kiba questioned with confusion.

"And how would you know that Uchiha-san?"

Looking at Shino Sasuke smirked. "That's because Team 7 was there when the Hokage and the Fire Daimyō told Naruto about the banquet and his position of Guest of Honor."

"Naruto asked permission for the most prominent Genin for his generation to attend as his guests. That is why we are here. Teams 7, 8 and 10 are the only ones that passed the Genin Test this year. Team 9 is the only surviving team to pass last year. The rest lost members and reassigned to reserves or to other departments." Sakura said getting a glare from Sasuke.

"Did you have to ruin my fun? I was waiting for dog breath to crack!"

"This is neither the place nor the time for petty rivalry!" Sakura snapped getting surprised looks from her fellow Genin. Looking around, they saw that Sakura was right. They were already close to the Hokage Mansion, along with many civilians staring at them with scrutinizing gazes. Wrong behavior would bring shame to their clans.

As they approached the gates, a bald man with a severe face and wearing white and black robes with a sash similar to Asuma's. "Asuma my friend, it has been too long!"

"That it has Chiriku, are you here to greet the guests?" Asuma asked with a smile.

"Not exactly, that's what young Shuren is here for," the man named Chiriku said as he pointed to a young monk standing beside him. "I was asked by Hideyoshi-sama to await young Naruto-sama's arrival. It has come to his attention that not only is Naruto-sama the last know Uzumaki, he is also the grandson of the Uzumaki Hikaru-sama, the Third Uzukage and the last Daimyō of Uzu no Kuni. He wanted me to ask you Naruto-sama, will you be averse to releasing that information to the rest of the Daimyō. He has been administering Uzu as your mother requested when he asked her. Now he asks you the same."

Naruto looked startled at that revelation, while the others looked at the blonde Jinchūriki with disbelief. Naruto looked at Sakura, hoping she could give him some advice. "Don't look at me. This is something you need to figure out yourself and right now."

"Is he planning to announce that right away if I agree?" Chiriku nodded with an understanding smile.

"That's is what he hopes, but he will understand if you want some more time to make a decision"

Naruto was about ask for more time when Kurama finally spoke up, "Allow it Naruto on the condition that until you retire from your Ninja Career, The Fire Daimyō keeps administering Uzu no Kuni as your proxy while sending you monthly reports. It will allow you to grow into the position while still allowing you to prepare for the future."

Naruto nodded before saying, "I don't have a problem with my heritage being revealed, but I would ask that Hideyoshi-sama still serves as my proxy until I retire from being a Ninja." Chiriku nodded before turned to the rest of the group.

"Now before we enter, can I please get all of your names and Team Affiliations? We need to announce your entries. Each entry will be team wise with Sensei followed by students with the exception of Naruto-sama, who will be announced first with his team following him." Chiriku said before noting down the name and team affiliations of everyone.


"Naruto-san is an exceptional shinobi Hokage-dono. You should be proud of him. I just wish that my own Jinchūriki Gaara would have even a tenth of his abilities. Rasa failed in his creation." The Wind Daimyō said to Hiruzen. Beside him, Rasa clenched his fists in anger.

"I am sure that with proper training, even young Gaara would be able to easily control his Bijū's powers. Though from what Naruto-kun had said, Kyūbi always calls Shukaku an empty headed sand rat. So we can conclude that the only way for young Gaara to be able to use Shukaku's power to the fullest is to supress his will Yoshihiro-dono." Hiruzen said with a reassuring smile.

"From what Gyuki has said to my brother, Shukaku has intelligence but he is uncooperative at the best of times. Young Gaara would have a hard time coming to a compromise with the Ichibi. Besides supressing the will of a Bijū is nearly impossible unless one has a pure heart." Ē said with a grim expression.

A silence filled their side of the chamber when the River Daimyō approached the group. "I have heard rumours that Uzumaki Naruto is the grandson of the last Uzu Daimyō. Is that true?"

The Fire Daimyō was about to answer when Chiriku started announcing the entrance of new guests. "Announcing Uzumaki Naruto-sama, the present Head of the Uzumaki Clan, the Sixteenth Uzu Daimyō and Genin member of Konoha's Team 7 with his guests, Hatake Kakashi, the present Head of the Hatake Clan and Jōnin Sensei to Konoha's Team 7, Uchiha Sasuke, the present Head of the Uchiha Clan and Genin member of Team 7, and finally Haruno Sakura the final Genin member of Team 7 and the youngest fully certified combat Iryōnin."

Following the announcement, Naruto entered the room with his head held high with Kakashi following behind him with the rest of his team mates following behind Kakashi with heads held high.

"Announcing Maito Gai, Jōnin Sensei of Konoha's Team 9 and master of the Gōken Taijutsu Style with his Genin, Higurashi Tenten, the upcoming Weapon Mistress of Konoha, Rock Lee, Apprentice to Maito Gai, and Hyūga Neji, member of the prestigious Hyūga Clan."

Team 9 entered following the announcement. Gai and Lee entered with excitement while Tenten gave of nervous vibes. Neji, on the other hand, was completely stoic.

"Announcing Yūhi Kurenai, Jōnin Sensei of Konoha's Team 8 and Genjutsu Mistress of Konoha with her Genin, Hyūga Hinata, Heir Presumptive of the Prestigious Hyūga Clan, Aburame Shino, Heir Apparent of the Aburame Clan, and Inuzuka Kiba, secondary Heir to the Inuzuka Clan."

Team 8 entered with Kurenai calmly walking into the room though some could see the tensing of her back. Hinata was similar to her sensei, adopting a stern expression though small uncertainty could be seen in her eyes. Shino was stoic as ever while Kiba entered with an excited expression.

"Announcing Sarutobi Asuma, Jōnin Sensei of Konoha's Team 10, former member of the Twelve Ninja Guardians and Heir Apparent of the Sarutobi Clan with his Genin, Yamanka Ino, Heir Apparent of the Yamanaka Clan, Akimichi Chōji, Heir Apparent of the Akimichi Clan, and Nara Shikamaru, Heir Apparent of the Nara Clan."

Team 10 walked in with heads held high following their Sensei's example, though Naruto could swear that Shikamaru was muttering about the whole thing being troublesome.

"Ah, the Guest of Honor and his guests have arrived!" Hideyoshi, the Fire Daimyō said quickly detaching himself from the group of Kage and Daimyō that surrounded him and approaching Naruto. "Naruto-dono, I am happy that you have agreed to accept your rightful place on the throne, though I must confess, how you are planning to be both a ninja of Konoha and administer Uzu? While under us and our honoured father's administration, we have helped the refugees rebuild the country which now thrives once again."

"You and your honoured father have our gratitude for all the help you have given us and our country Hideyoshi-dono, but may I request that you keep administering Uzu until I retire from my ninja career, or at least until I have been able to finish the Ketsueki Bunshin no Jutsu." Naruto said with a presence of authority that isn't normally seen in someone so young.

"When did Naruto learn to talk nobleish?" Kiba asked the rest of the Genin when Sakura giggled and replied, "Its Noblesse, and I have no idea but he is doing quite well."

"Maybe it's because of his blood. He is of royal descent after all." Sasuke said with a grin. "I am actually afraid of what he would have already become if he had the proper training from birth."

All the gathered Genin, their Sensei, and the nearby Clan Heads shivered at the thought. All of them agreeing that any political enemy of the boy would be dead before anyone even realized what had happened.

"Forgive me for interrupting Hideyoshi-dono, but what do you mean by Ketsueki Bunshin no Jutsu Naruto-kun? You haven't been experimenting with kinjutsu have you? Any kind of blood clone would require too much blood to be of viable use. All research into blood clones were dropped when the Ninja Sage Noboru died from blood loss three hundred years ago."

"Mother and Father had already done most of the research. I just have to finish the jutsu. When I am done, it would only need about half-a-pint of blood to do the jutsu!" Naruto said causing all the Ninja's faces to pale in realization.

"Even if you succeed, I would like to tell you that your Ketsueki Bunshin would be marked kinjutsu. Come to me as soon as you succeed and make sure to not teach it to someone else unless I allow it." Hiruzen stated with a stern expression only for Naruto to shake his head.

"Sorry, can't do that. My Ketsueki Bunshin is a derivative of the Kage Bunshin, but I plan on declaring it Clan Jutsu. Besides it requires approximately twice as much chakra as the Kage Bunshin, so anyone outside my Clan would die out of chakra exhaustion anyway. Declaring it Clan Jutsu would also keep it away from unsavoury kinds of people like that bandaged old man." Hiruzen looked surprised but nodded in agreement.

"I can't stop you from declaring it a Clan Jutsu, but make sure to not teach it to someone unworthy. If it has the properties of the Kage Bunshin with the proposed properties of the Blood Clone's. I don't want to think what it could do in the hands of the unworthy."

"I agree with Hokage-dono, Naruto-dono! Such techniques should be taught and used as sparingly as possible." Ē said with a stern expression. Naruto nodded in agreement before he was pulled into a conversation with the Wind Daimyō.

Over the next three hours, Naruto walked about greeting Daimyō and representatives of the different countries Hiruzen had invited to watch Naruto's evaluation. From time to time, Naruto could be seen talking with his fellow genin and their Jōnin Sensei before returning to socialize with the nobility and their representatives.

Near the end of the night, the Raikage and Kazekage approached Naruto as he was speaking with a Daimyō. "Pardon us Tsuki Kakeru-dono, but may we steal Naruto-dono away for a moment?"

Tsuki Kakeru, the Daimyō of Tsuki no Kuni was an elder man nearing his sixties looked up at the two Kage with a suspicious gaze. After a couple of moments of silent contemplation, the man turned back to Naruto. "Then I shall take my leave Naruto-dono. Please give consideration to my proposal and if you are every in my country, feel free to call on me. Your Grandfather was a good friend of my fathers. It is always a pleasure to host an Uzumaki. All of your clan had a way of brightening up the people they are around."

"It was an honour to meet you Kakeru-dono. I promise to call on you if I am in Tsuki and I will put considerable consideration to your proposal." Naruto said with a respectful bow, a bow that Kakeru returned before leaving.

"Naruto-dono, I must congratulate you on mastering the power of the Kyūbi and at such a young age." Ē said getting a nod from Naruto. "But I must confess that I wonder how you achieved that feat at such a young age."

"I must agree with Ē-dono. It truly is an amazing feat. I just wish my own Jinchūriki, Gaara would be able to achieve a similar feat. It is disappointing that he can't even master the power of the Ichibi, when someone his age has already mastered the power of the Kyūbi."

Naruto and Ē frowned at Rasa's statement before Ē replied, "Isn't young Gaara your youngest son?"

Rasa nodded with an emotionless face. "That's right. I didn't expect him to be such a disappointment. It's too bad. He is an exemplary shinobi, but he easily succumbs to Shukaku's will. He is a liability to the village."

"May be the seal is not stable enough." Naruto stated getting an annoyed look from Rasa and an understanding look from Ē.

"You think the mind separation component is not working, right?"

"That's right Raikage-dono. Either that, or Gaara has himself damaged the separation component. My seal though is different now. Previously, it used to keep me and Kurama completely separate, only letting a sliver of his power through. Higher amounts would have corroded the Hakke no Fūin Shiki. When I befriended the fox and helped him overcome his hatred for humans, the seal changed into Torii Seal. It allows us to easily synchronize our chakra without restraint. Our trust in each other is the strength of the seal. If required, I can restrain Kurama and separate his chakra away from him, but lose access to Bijū Mōdō."

"That is quite fascinating Naruto-dono. It seems that you and my brother are very similar. I just wish Yugito would stop complaining about Matatabi's quirks and build a better friendship with her. Now may I ask how you shared Bijū chakra?" Ē asked with curiosity, beside him Rasa silently seethed at being ignored by the two.

"That depends on the Jinchūriki. If they can truly understand the nature of their Bijū, themselves and their merged chakra, they can easily share it with others. Is that all Raikage-dono?" Naruto asked with a grin. Ē looked surprised but nodded in respect. He could appreciate the subtle way Naruto declared the end of that line of questioning.

"Now Naruto-dono, you said something about Gaara himself damaging the separation component. Why would you think of something like that? I doubt Gaara is badly treated, I mean he is the son of their Yondaime Kazekage and a jailor of the Ichibi. He deserves respect for both his lineage and his burden." Ē said with a mocking grin directed at Rasa.

"Are you insinuating that I encourage the mistreatment of Gaara?" Rasa said with a cold voice causing Ē to shake his head, his mocking grin not fading.

"I would say that probably the separation component has been faulty from the start, though I may be wrong. I would say only a level eight and above Seal Master would be able to correct the seal, it what I suspect is true." Naruto said causing Rasa's attention to shift to the young Jinchūriki.

"Are you insinuating that my Seal Master has botched the job? I would like you to know that Elder Chiyo is the finest Seal Master in all of Suna!" Rasa gritted out in anger.

"I never meant any insult, but a seal designed to hold a Bijū in a Jinchūriki is far more complex than one that holds a lower Bijū in an inanimate object. I am only saying that we are human after all. We all make mistakes." Naruto stated causing Rasa to stiffly nod before storming away.

"He doesn't take too well to criticism does he, even if it is well hidden?" Naruto asked Ē with a small grin causing the Raikage to nod in agreement.

"Anyway Naruto-dono, I wish to hear your views on the political climate that permeates the nations at this current time."

Naruto appeared thoughtful for a few moments, but the far off look in his eyes gave Ē a minor hint that he was speaking with the Kyūbi. Nodding to himself Naruto stated, "The present climate that gives off the illusion of peace is quite loathsome. While an uneasy peace does exist, it is easily broken by the smallest of conflicts. And with each such infraction, we just create more hatred in the world, allowing the cycle of hatred to keep running. I believe that the only way we can achieve true peace is through complete understanding. We have the foundations, we just need to build upon it to achieve that peace. Some of the militant ideals, like the ones that lead to Gaara being cursed to become a Jinchūriki need to go, while better ideals need to be introduced. If we all are able to forget past grudges and live in the present, I believe that we can easily achieve a steady peace. So to tell the truth, while I barely like the uneasy peace, I would love the peace I just described."

Ē nodded in respect and understanding. "I agree with you to a certain degree, but I doubt we could forget past grudges so easily. It will be up to the next generation, particularly your own, to build that peace on the foundations that today's uneasy peace provides."

"I agree with Ē-dono, Naruto-kun. We will try and make the foundations as stable as possible, it will be up to your generation to build the everlasting peace that you wish." Hiruzen said as he came to stand behind Naruto, placing a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Now E-dono, I believe it is time that we all prepare to leave. It is already quite late into the night and many of us need to prepare for long journeys or in some of our cases, neglected paperwork."

"Of course Hokage-dono, goodnight and too you as well Naruto-dono." Ē stated as he walked away from the duo. Hiruzen silently motioned for Naruto to follow him.

After walking to a quiet corner, Hiruzen turned to Naruto with a proud smile on his face. "I have been observing you throughout the night Naruto-kun, and I must admit that you have caught everyone by surprise. Many here expected you to be a gullible bosting rookie, not the humble but powerful young man you proved yourself to be. When my fellow Kage came to speak with you, I was about to intervene, but Jiriaya stopped me. I was angry at him at first, but by the way you handled them, I can already see you as a monster of a Kage, in both power and political acumen. Jiraiya was right to trust you, I am ashamed to admit that I didn't. I think that with a couple of years of experience, you would easily be able to become the Godaime Hokage."

"Thanks for your confidence jiji. I will strive to achieve your expectations." Naruto stated with a formal bow.

Hiruzen bowed in return before grinning, "Now are you ready for your speech?"

"What? What speech?" Naruto asked in panic until Hiruzen started chuckling. Naruto looked up confused before realizing that Hiruzen hand just pranked him. With a flat tone, Naruto stated, "Beware Jiji, I will get you back for this prank!"

Hiruzen felt a shiver run down his spine. He had forgotten for a moment who he was talking too. Now he would have to keep looking over his back for Naruto's retaliation. Faking a cough, Hiruzen stated, "Just as well, you should gather up your friends and head home for the night. All of you have missions and training in the morning."

Naruto nodded with a foxy grin before rushing to gather his friends. "You do know that you are a dead man walking, right Hiruzen?"

Hiruzen turned his head to see his old teammate, Koharu standing beside him. With a sigh, Hiruzen replied, "I realized it right after Naurto-kun stated his desire for revenge. I should have kept my childish urge in control."

"Watch your back Hiruzen. I will inform Homura and Danzo to stay far away from you until Naruto is satisfied." Koharu stated with a grin before leaving the old Kage to wallow in self-pity.


Team 7 and their Sensei were walking towards the Hokage Tower wondering why they were suddenly called during their scheduled training session. They were working on some team formations when Boar the ANBU suddenly appeared in the middle of Training Ground 7 with a scroll from the Hokage. The surprising thing was that the scroll had only a single line in it.

Team 7, you are hereby summoned to the Council Chambers immediately, by orders of the Hokage.

"What did you do now baka?" Sakura had asked as soon as Kakashi had finished reading the scroll.

"I swear I didn't do anything, yet!"

"Sakura, I know how this looks, but the message called all of us. It didn't specifically single out Naruto. So it is prudent of us to assume that we are being called in for a special mission. It does happen to experienced teams, though it is rare for freshly minted Genin being assigned such missions. Then again, looking at the current strength of our team, we already surpass the strength of most experienced Genin Teams past, present and future." Kakashi said not taking his eyes of his copy of the Icha Icha.

"It can also be a diplomatic mission. Naruto is a Daimyō and the face of Konoha. Sending him on diplomatic missions is very likely," Sasuke said with a frown. "What I am confused about is our whole team being called in. Usually only the representative is called along with the team meant to escort him or her."

"Maybe, we are being assigned as the escort while Naruto is the Ambassador?" Sakura said causing Naruto to suddenly stop with a nervous expression on his face. Seeing the expression, Kakashi and Sasuke chuckled.

"You afraid for such a simple mission when you can take down a team of elite Jōnin, a Rookie Jōnin, a Tokubetsu Jōnin who is known to be strong enough to easily rival some of our elite Jōnin and two elite ANBU?" Sasuke asked with a smirk causing Naruto to growl.

"Who wants to spend hours discussing treaties when I can be out there taking down enemies of Konoha, protecting innocents and training!" Naruto exclaimed as they reached the Hokage Tower.

"Now, now Naruto. There is no need to be irritable. We all get diplomatic missions from time to time. With you being the face of Konoha, you will now be taking the brunt of the major ones." Kakashi smirked in amusement as Naruto started cursing. Beside him, Sasuke and Sakura were chuckling and giggling respectively.

As Team 7 reached the Council Chambers, Naruto still cursing under his breath, Kakashi offered the scroll to the ANBU guarding the entrance. After the ANBU read the message before nodding to Team 7. The ANBU slotted the scroll into the door frame behind him. The door glowed green before a click was heard before the doors swung open.

"Please enter now before the door close again!" Team 7 nodded to the ANBU as they entered the room. Naruto having adopted a mask of calm.

"Ah Team 7 welcome. You all must be wondering why you have been summoned here. Well no matter. You will be informed of the reason soon." Team 7 looked up at the raised seat to their left in surprise. Though everyone knew of the seats reserved for the Daimyō and his advisors, no one expected the Daimyō to be present at a council meeting that didn't deal with war.

"Good morning Hideyoshi-dono. I didn't expect to meet you here today!" Naruto said with a formal bow.

"No need to bow Naruto-kun and no need for formalities outside a gathering of Daimyō and their representatives. Now come and sit beside me. It is the least honour I can accolade you as an allied Daimyō." Hideyoshi said causing the civilian councillors to start whispering amongst themselves. Some of them wearing pallid expressions. "Hiruzen, after this, you must sanction the Uzumaki Seat to be on my side and at the same level and with the same number of advisor seats."

"As you wish Hideyoshi-sama!" Hiruzen said as he stood up and bowed. At the same time, Naruto walked up the steps to the unoccupied seat beside the Fire Daimyō.

"Good now to the reason for the summoning. Naruto-kun, you asked me to be your proxy till you have grown accustomed to your newly revealed station. As I said, I am honoured to accept. My advisor old Cheng here has already compiled all the scrolls and documents pertaining to Uzu. At the end of the meeting, he will personally accompany you to your home and help you understand all of it. At the end of every month from now on, Cheng will come to Konoha and handover the new month's documents, which is unless you are occupied in a long term mission. In such a case, it will be handed over to the current Hokage."

"I understand and accept Hideyoshi jii-chan!" Naruto stated with a small bow of his head.

Hideyoshi smiled at Naruto before continuing, "Now as your stature as an unattached Daimyō of young age, you will be sent many marriage contracts with some Daimyō and nobles trying to get you to verbally agree to such a proposal. I advise you not to commit yourself to any such arrangement, all the while gracefully and politely decline or redirect the talks, unless you are interested."

Naruto nodded his head in understanding while sweat dropping in realization of what he had promised Shion in the future that no longer exits. "Now as the last known male member of the royal line of the Uzumaki, you are already considered the Clan Head and Daimyō of Uzu. That you already know. Now what you don't know is that a law was passed by the twenty third gathering of Daimyō some four hundred years ago that states that the male heir of a Royal or Noble Clan are required to have multiple spouses to repopulate their clan, if the clan is nearly extinct. All the Ninja Village has a similar law that applies to their Ninja Clans. Both of them are called the Clan Restoration Act. The difference between the laws is that the Daimyō's version requires the target to marry multiple spouses without any choice in taking only a single spouse. The shinobi version, the target have the choice to only take a single spouse. Interestingly you are applicable for both laws with the Daimyō version taking precedence over the shinobi version."

Naruto nodded with an eerily calm expression gracing his face. "So I have no choice in whether I take a single spouse or multiple?"

"No you don't, though you have a choice in who will be your spouse. There is no limit to the number of spouses but the minimum is three. Now I hope that you are wise in choosing. As a Daimyō, you have a duty to your people. Marrying the wrong woman may cause a political de-stability. Marriage with us royals isn't always about love, we marry out of duty and political advantages as well. Many will send theirs daughters after you due to the promise of power a marriage to your family will grant them." Hideyoshi said looking at the civilian council.

"I see, thank you for your warning. I will endeavour to keep on my guard."

"I would expect no less of you Naruto-kun. Now I must say that even I was surprised when I received multiple contracts from the minor Daimyō pertaining to you, as your proxy. All of them are with Cheng. He will show you all the ins and outs of the contracts. You must pay attention to the minor details that are usually hidden within the flowery language used in such contracts. Again Cheng will be able to help you. I also advise you to seek out trust worthy people to act as your advisors. They can be shinobi, samurai, monks or civilians. It all depends on you. In fact, Cheng was a samurai before he became my advisor. Now on to other things. Normally you wouldn't be able to become a Clan Head until you become a Chunin, but I think it prudent that you and young Uchiha Sasuke become Clan Heads as you two are the last loyal members of your Clans."

"Excuse me Daimyō-sama, but may I decline in taking my position as Clan Head until a time in the future when I am much more experienced and comfortable with my skills before taking up such responsibility?" Sasuke said getting a gasp from the Civilian Council.

The Daimyō stared at Sasuke with a blank look causing the boy to squirm. After a couple of minutes of silence, Hideyoshi hummed as he replied, "You are wiser than your age portrays. Most would have accepted the rank without thinking of the responsibilities that come with it. I will accept your reasoning, but know this, as soon as you feel ready, you may take up your position as Clan Head of the Uchiha even if you are not a Chunin. Too long has the Uchiha and Senju Clans been unrepresented. Hiruzen, I also order you to call in Tsunade so that she may be of use to Konoha again."

"As you wish Daimyō-sama!"

"Now, Hatake Kakashi."

"Yes Daimyō-sama?" Kakashi asked with a bit of nervousness seeping into his tone.

"You are not fulfilling your duty to your Clan. The Hatake Clan has been citizens of Hi no Kuni since the founding of the country some nine hundred years ago. Your clan has been retainers of my family, and you have served us well. It is truly disheartening that the last heir would see his clan pass from living memory instead of making sure that there are members to carry on the grand legacy of their ancestors. All of your ancestors must be rolling over in their graves."

Kakashi hung his head in shame but nodded in agreement that he was in fact disappointing his ancestors. "I understand Daimyō-sama. I will strive to better myself and make sure that my clan carries on."

"Now Haruno Sakura. I would like you to head a department I wish to personally fund. It shall deal with the training of competent Iryōnin so that every team shall at least have one capable of administering first aid on the field on fatal injuries so that the rest of the team has time to bring the fatally wounded member back for intensive care. I know that you are young, but your accomplishment in gaining full certification is enough for me to appoint you to such a position. You are welcome to keep doing missions with your team while leaving behind a suitable temporary head. Hiruzen make sure that Team 7 doesn't get any mission that will keep them away from Konoha for more than eight weeks."

Hiruzen and Sakura nodded in agreement causing the Daimyō to smile at them.

"Then I believe that we are finished with the meeting. Now before we all leave to attend to our duties, I have something to say…" Hideyoshi said as he looked around the room. Seeing everyone's attention on him, he continued, "Naruto-kun has decided to become the face of Konoha and along with it the Uzu Daimyō. That means that he is representing two countries. As we all know, Uzu is still feared for their Fūinjutsu skills. Now Konoha must owe up to the image Naruto-kun is portraying. We all must do our part. The Shinobi Forces must grow stronger, both individually and as teams. There are many who fail the Genin Test. Those who have adequate qualities, don't throw them away, send them for specialized training. Sakura-chan I advise that you look for candidates for your department from that pool along with the existing Genin and academy students. The civilians should leave their greedy nature behind or be executed for treason."

"What do you mean Daimyō-sama?" A fat man from the Civilian council asked with confusion.

Hideyoshi nodded to the advisor sitting behind him. The old woman nodded as she took out a bundle of scrolls and started reading.

500000 Ryo diverted from the annual funds sent for infrastructure development to the personal coffers of Councillor Tanaka and Councillor Hitomi.

1000000 Ryo diverted from the annual funds allocated to the betterment of the Shinobi Academy to the coffers of Councillor Jimmu.

750000 Ryo diverted from the annual Royal donations to the Orphanages in Konoha to the coffers of Councillors Hitomi, Hokuto and Takaboshi.

"Should I continue Daimyō-sama, the rest are all permutations of the Councillors already stated."

"No thank you, have Chiriku go ahead and reclaim the stolen money along with 20% interest per annum. The traitors will be executed if they protest. Hiruzen, it seems that you have become a bit soft in your old age. You can do what you want with these five traitors any way you wish. I give them to you. Make sure to dissolve the present council and make note of the possible new members and send it to me. Naruto-kun, I would like a favour of you."

"How may I be of service Jii-chan?"

"I would like you to look over any propositions the new Civilian Council hands to Hiruzen so that he doesn't have to waste time in looking over unnecessary ones. It will also be good practice for the future when you take full control of Uzu."

"As you wish Jii-chan."

"Also, I would like you to spend a few hours of your free time to restructure the Academy Curriculum. Your training has borne fruit to amazing results. I hope that you will be able to devise one that will allow the future Genin to be highly trained from the start, instead of the useless soldiers the present curriculum produces."

"I was going to suggest some changes to Jiji already. Now I will make sure that the academy graduates will at least be low Chunin level when they graduate. In fact I was planning to help my classmates and a select few Genin from last year to learn the Ninshu I used during the test."

"That's a fine idea Naruto-kun!" Hiruzen and Hideyoshi exclaimed at the same time before Hideyoshi continued, "If you think it possible, why not add a few Jōnin and ANBU to your plan."

"I was going to suggest that our Jōnin and ANBU start training more anyway. After the test, I realized that while all of them are fine shinobi, they have all become complacent. My goal is to make sure that all of our shinobi reaches their full potential. Many become lazy after reaching a certain level, which is most common among prodigies. Then there are those who aren't naturally talented but make do with intense training. With proper regimes, I am sure that Kotetsu, Izumo and Iruka-sensei can easily become Elite Jōnin, though in cases of the two former, they have become lazy while in the case of the latter, he has little time to do personal training with the amount of history he has to teach. If the academy was more practical oriented, all the teachers could train right beside their students. It would motivate both the students and the teachers to do better."

"Then devise such a routine Naruto-kun. I will make it so that all Shinobi are required to compulsorily follow the routine as much as possible." Hiruzen stated getting a nod from Naruto and the Daimyō. From the corner of his eye, Naruto caught the happy expression on Danzo' face.

"If you need help in devising the routines, I would like to offer my help. Though I was wondering will you teach Ninshu to a young boy who is my ward. Young Sai has so much potential." Everyone looked at Danzo with scepticism.

Naruto closed his eyes and activated his Sennin Mōdō before releasing it. Within that one moment, Danzo knew that Naruto wasn't trusting him as much as he would like. Then again, Naruto seems to have similar ideologies to himself, and he wouldn't trust Naruto much if their roles were reversed. Danzo saw Naruto opened his eyes with a stern expression in them, "I would gladly accept your help in devising the routines and I will accept him, but make no mistake, if I find him lacking, I will forbid him from learning anymore from me."

Danzo nodded in agreement, "He won't disappoint you, and I can assure you of that. He is one of the finest I have ever trained."

Hiruzen and the rest of the Shinobi Council looked startled at the revelation. The only thing that was going through their collective minds was what game these two were playing against each other.

"That's good, but I must ask, is he a shinobi of Konoha, or just an orphan you decided to favour?"

Sweat flowed down Danzo's neck at the question. "He was an orphan that caught my attention. I decided to take him in and train him."

"The why isn't he a shinobi of Konoha yet, unless you think he is not ready yet for his duties? After all if the roots aren't strong enough the whole tree suffers."

Hiruzen narrowed his eyes at Naruto's particular choice of words. At the same time a shiver ran down Danzo's spine as he looked at Naruto in shock. He understood the hidden meaning behind Naruto's words. I know that he is a member of your Root Forces, and I will be keeping a close eye on you and your men.

"I was planning to introduce him to Hiruzen for induction into Konoha Ranks in a couple of more years when I was sure that he was high Chunin material. But if you won't train him until he is a Konoha shinobi, then I can have him inducted within the week."

Naruto nodded in agreement, "Then I want his full file. His abilities, his heritage, his mentality, everything!"

Hiruzen saw Danzo give a nervous nod and realized what Naruto was doing. He was making sure that Danzo took him as a threat, but only if Danzo stood against Naruto's plans for the betterment of Konoha.

Floating around the heads of the Shinobi Council was only a single thought, 'Don't piss of Naruto! If he can make Danzo sweat, they don't what Naruto setting his sights on them.'

"Now if all of you have finished, I think we should absolve this meeting before some other discussion comes up. I think that all of us would like lunch before heading back to our duties." Daimyō said as he and his entourage stood up to leave. Following his example, the rest of them prepared to leave as well.

As Team 7 walked out of the room, Naruto addressed Kakashi, "Ne Kakashi-sensei, I think it is time you throw away that perverted book and look for a bride before Daimyō jii-chan forces you to marry someone of his choice!"

Beside him Sakura started giggling, while Sasuke smirked. Kakashi grumbled out, "Mind your own business you troublesome blonde!"

"I am sure that Naruto can convince Daimyō-sama to ban Icha Icha from Konoha. Make sure to get a life before Naruto does that." Sasuke said with the smirk still present on his face.

"Don't worry Kakashi-sensei, I am sure there is a perverted woman out there who likes Icha Icha just like you!" Sakura exclaimed with laughter.

"Not very likely!" Kakashi mumbled under his breath before disappearing in a shunshin.


A/N:

Japanese Translations

N/A


A/N:

Japanese Jutsu, Style and Weapon Name Translations

Hiraishin = Flying Thunder God

Ketsueki Bunshin no Jutsu = Blood Clone Technique

Hakke no Fūin Shiki = Eight Trigrams Sealing Style


A/N: Hey Everyone! I hope you like this new chapter. Please remember to leave Reviews. The more Reviews I get, the faster I will publish another chapter, though I will try and keep it on a monthly schedule.

SSG.