"N-no, it can't be… You are lying!" Kushina cried out at Naruto, once she heard him say it, with him turning his eyes towards him. "Naruto… He was my son, I would know if you were him, the real him!" At that response, Naruto simply chuckled, while shaking his head.
"Kushina… What he told me just now… It was only something that Naruto himself knew." Jiraiya told her, with Kushina refusing to admit that this is her son.
"Perhaps, but you weren't exactly being subtle in your training, so obviously people have heard all about it, and he could've learned about it from second-hand sources." Shikamaru reasoned, as he turned to Naruto. "You are not who you claim to be, simply because facts don't add up. For instance, you are far too old to be Naruto Uzumaki, and you have a different color of eyes and tone of hair, one that is of lighter color than real Naruto's. And you also do not have the iconic whiskers, so yeah you are nothing more than a fraud trying to be someone you really are not."
"And prey tell me, Shikamaru, for what, exactly, purpose would I use the name of Naruto Uzumaki, if I were a fraud?" Naruto asked him the most obvious question. "What boons or advantages does offer to me? In fact, just how famous was he? I will tell you- he was not in any way famous, at least to the extent that it would warrant someone to adopt his persona."
"And yet you have adopted it for your own purposes." Shikamaru stated, with Naruto giving him a small smirk.
"To be perfectly honest, I did think about changing my name a couple of times, but then again, what would be the point, really? Name is only meaningful when you yourself give a meaning, and for me, Naruto Uzumaki means something that none of you would never understand." Naruto responded. "But I see that you are not convinced, or rather don't want to believe, that I am the same old Naruto you all knew before. Well, almost all of you knew, but the way I see it, I do not have to prove anything to you."
"Then what's the point of you talking to us all like that?" Kakashi asked of him, with Naruto turning his eyes to him. "Just kills us be done with it, if this is what you intend to do?" At that one Naruto laughed a little, confusing and surprising them.
"Kill you? And why would I do that? Because you've infiltrated my country, engaged one of my commanders and nearly tore apart this beautiful park?" Naruto asked of them almost sarcastically. "Normally, yes, I would just be done with you, but in all honesty, I'm actually in a rather amicable mood, and I have been looking forward to this meeting for quite a while."
"Yeah, and why is that? So you could torture and get us to spill our secrets to you? If you were real Naruto, you would know that we would never talk." Ino said daringly, with Naruto not even paying her any mind.
"Tell me, why did you assume my son's identity? Answer me, you fraud!" Kushina demanded to know the answer, with Rea deciding to chime in.
"He did not assume anything, Kushina Namikaze, he is merely using the name that you have given to him, though he has every right to change it." Rea answered for Naruto, as she stepped closer with Kushina turning her eye to her. "It has been quite a long time, dear cousin. I doubt you remember me, but I sure haven't forgotten you, Kushina, along with your snide remarks about my lineage." At that moment, Kushina's eyes widened, as she finally recognized who it was.
"R-Rea? You survived the attack? B-but I thought t-that all of your family and the main branch were wiped out in the attack." Kushina said with the shock, with Rea simply watching her reaction. "Minato's intel said that you lead the Uzumaki now, b-but how can this be? You are a bastard child and were excluded from the main branch, so how can you be their leader?" At that Rea simply chuckled and answered.
"The fact that you still cling to these things as purity of lineage and from which branch one is shows just how little you know and understand… I lead the Uzumaki because I was chosen to lead them, as was my father before me, and as for the main branch, trueborn and bastards- none of that has any meaning for the Uzumaki Clan." Rea stated to her. "The segregation and separation of the Clan into main and side is over as it should've been done away long before the attack. You were not there when the attack came, you didn't see how our land burned and people died, while the main branch tried to save itself, at the expense of everyone else. The destruction of Uzu destroyed more than our nation, but also our culture and identity, but it also cleansed us from what made us weak, and now the Uzumaki are united, as they should have been from the start. One clan, one family, one for all, all for one- that was once was our creed, and it is now again."
"More like serving under a fraud and a bastard child of a failed warrior. Do you really think that I'll ever believe that someone like you can actually command the respect and obedience of the Uzumaki Clan and its vassals?" Kushina asked of her. "Just because you have these chains doesn't mean that you can command anything. Dispel them and I'll show what a real Uzumaki is made out of."
"As tempting as it sounds, Kushina, I think I'll pass. Unlike you, I do not have to prove anything, and I have grown past the age when I get ticked off by even the smallest of things." Rea said with a mocking smile, before she turned to Naruto. "Milord, what is it that you wish to do with them?"
"If I may, Lord Naruto, I would suggest that we be rid of them this instance." Naomasa suggested, with Kushina looking at him with surprise.
"While it does sound tempting, Naomasa, I am not in the mood to draw blood, especially on the eve of the festival, and I am not all that interested in starting a war with the Leaf, despite everything that has happened." Naruto stated to him, as he snapped his fingers, and a 7-men squad appeared out of shadows, each of them wearing different arms and armor, yet all looking as ferocious and dangerous as they could get. "Instead, I think I'll just drop these guys off at their village, and while I out there, make my intensions as clear as it can get to them."
"If you would permit, milord, I would like to also accompany you to the Hidden Leaf." Rea asked him. "I would like to look into the eyes of those who had left my people to die, and make it clear to them, that the Uzumaki are not dead, and that we have not forgotten or forgiven those who had betrayed us."
"Very well, as you wish." Naruto told her, as he moved closer to Kushina and suddenly touched her neck.
"What do you think you are doing?" She asked of him, unable to shake him off.
"Just looking for that Flying Raijin formula that your husband has put on you, and there it is." Naruto said, as he found it, and then his free hand began to perform series of hand signs. "Hold on to me, Rea. This may be slightly uncomfortable." At that, Rea grabbed onto Naruto by hugging him closely with her free hand, placing it onto his chest with her entire body pressed into his side, while she had quite a smile on her.
The moment Naruto was done with the signs, the area filled with smock that cleared away almost instantly, revealing a completely clear spot in the park, where just moments before was the group of Konoha Shinobi, Naruto, Rea and Daimyo's personal bodyguards.
Konoha, Council Chambers.
The very next moment, a large puff of smock appeared right in the middle of the Council Chambers, and the next moment it cleared out, Naruto realized where he had found himself, and it brought quite a smile upon his face. He was right in the Council Chambers, right in the moment when they were having another one of their sessions, with the entirety of the Council members and even Shinobi Clans' heirs being present, not to mention the Elders and Hokage himself. This was even better than he could've asked, for Naruto was actually quite interested to talk to not just the man who had destroyed his life the first time, but also with all the people who had made his life as a child miserable and nearly unbearable.
He glanced around and noticed the shock and utter disbelief on everyone's faces, with the Civilian Council being unable to even fully comprehend what was happening, while the Shinobi Council acted in quite a different manner, as did Hokage and the Anbu that were stationed here. The Clan Heads and many of the present heirs already prepared for a fight, their training skills already kicking in, with only one exception, and that being Hinata Hyuga, who was unable to move even a muscle. Where her father and younger sister already activated the Byakugan and assumed fighting stances, she simply looked at Naruto and tears began to run down her face, with Naruto seeing clear realization and purest happiness in her eyes.
The sight of Hinata crying caused a small painful pang in his heart, for before his mind was altered and nearly broken, he did develop a something akin to crush for the soft-hearted girl. Looking at her now, he couldn't help but notice how she had matured and grew into a woman of beauty and grace, though it was also clear to him that this growth also came with sorrow and sadness for her. Out of all in this village, only she was undoubtedly the one to have mourned him, and he could clearly see how it led to her being ostracized and made into an outcast within her own clan and family. He knew even back then that the Hyuga Clan wasn't a place that fit Hinata and that she was always viewed there as a weak and meek person, unfit to lead their Clan in the future and deserving only to move away for the sake of her sister.
That sentiment extended to all of the Clan, not just the main branch, but also the side branches as well, for why else would Neji be so ready and willing to kill Hinata, a member of the Main Branch, if it also meant that he would likely be killed soon after for such a travesty? The answer was as simple as it could be- the Clan, or rather its elders and Hiashi, gave him their permission to kill her and therefore rid themselves of the problem that they saw Hinata being. And that thought made him rather angry, angrier than he would've expected himself to get, signaling to him that even after all this time, he still held warm feelings towards Hinata, and just from the way she looked at him, from what he could see in her beautiful eyes… He could tell that for her, he was far more than either friend or object of admiration, but what his wives and Rea saw him.
Turning away from Hinata and directing his sight towards Minato, he saw the surprise and shock in his eyes, which quickly retreated and gave way to the concentrated anger and preparation, as he saw his wife and the team he had sent bound by the chains of Rea. Naruto realized instantly that to expect him to be shook and staggered would be pointless, but the reaction of the two kids that were near him… Now they were not so quick to get rid of their anger and shock. A boy and a girl, each of them looking like a younger version of their parents, Menma and Natsu, were glaring daggers at Naruto, with Menma practically snarling and prepared to strike him at that moment, while Natsu was far more restrained in her actions and intentions. From just a casual glance it was clear that Natsu was the levelheaded one of the two, while Menma was more like him when he was younger, only even worse.
When looking at them, he could clearly see the resemblance between them and himself when he was younger, and while he could have thought about how things would have turned out if his parents had made a different decision, it was ultimately pointless and needless. The past was in the past and he had already died and was cleared away of any attachments towards this family, so beside from anger and controlled hatred that he felt for Kushina and Minato, there was no room for anything else. He was here for a purpose and one that he intended to complete now. The moment Anbu had appeared and prepared to strike him, his bodyguards surrounded him and Rea in a protective manner, while Naruto simply raised his hand spoke the first.
"Let's not be so hasty, shall we? I understand that this may be a bit… surprising and confusing for you, but despite how it looks, I am actually here simply to talk to you." Naruto told them in a casual tone, as he looked at Minato, who already drew out his kunai. "I understand that you were trying to find out who I am and what is it that I want. Well, I am here to tell you all exactly that. So, father, or rather, Minato Namikaze, shall we talk?" Naruto couldn't help but smile at the surprise on his face.
"Just who in the world are you, and how did you get in here?!" Councilor Koharu rose up from her seat, looking at Naruto with shock. "Release these Shinobi at once, or face the wrath of the Hidden Leaf Village!"
"Whoever you are, you chose a wrong place to pop up, you bastard. You are right in the heart of the strongest Hidden Village, and unless you release them, you and your friends will be very sorry for ever getting here!" Tsume Inuzuka practically snarled at Naruto, while he simply sighed, before giving Rea the signal to release them. "Good, now die!" And at that very moment, the Shinobi of the Hidden Leaf in their near complete entirety leapt into action, while Naruto closed his eyes.
Unfortunately for them, the moment they did, they were stopped by some kind of force and then were all pushed backwards, forcing most of them to crash into the wall or floor without the ability to stand up. Only those who had chosen not to attack Naruto were spared that fate, with his former sister Natsu being one such person, alongside his former parents, Hinata and those he just brought here. Letting out a small sigh with close eyes, Naruto opened his eyes, looked at Minato Namikaze, and spoke up again.
"I did say not to be so hasty. After all, one can never know what your supposed opponent can have hidden in his sleeves." Naruto remarked, before turning his attention to Minato. "So, Minato, I understand you were interested in me. Well, here I am in person."
"Who… Who are you?" Minato asked of him, with Naruto smirking at him.
"I think we both know at this point who I am, even if you try denying it in your mind." Naruto answered to him, before raising right hand and opening its palm. "But, to dispel any remaining doubts, here's a clear proof of who I am." Naruto said, and at that very moment a familiar looking ball of chakra appeared, shocking all who saw it, with Minato included.
"Rasengan! But I only taught that technique to select few, and aside from them, only…" Minato realized what Naruto was meaning behind his words, and then realization came crushing down on him. "N-Naruto… I-it really is you?" Naruto smirked at that, dispelling Rasengan and answering.
"And who else would I be? A fraud trying to mascaraed as someone as insignificant as the supposed Demon Fox of Konoha? Give me a break." Naruto chuckled at that, while everyone else was reeling from the realization who it was before them.
"But… But how is that even possible?! You were dead, Tsunade had personally checked your body, there was no way you could've survived, and even then, we burned you afterwards." Hiruzen Sarutobi said with shock, before Naruto looked into him. "You… How did you come back, Naruto?" He asked of him in shock.
"Well, I'm not denying that I died, which I did, in fact, after your precious Uchiha ran a Chidori right through my chest. As for how did I come back… Does it really matter at this point? The point is that I died and then got back alive three years ago, and now I am the Water Daimyo." Naruto simply shrugged his shoulders at that.
"If you have been alive all this time, then why did you not report back to the Hidden Leaf Village? Did you forget your duty to it?" Mitokado demanded to know from him. "If you really are Naruto Uzumaki, you would've done exactly that, instead trying to play who you can never be and never will be."
"And why would I return back, especially after my mind was restored to its fullest potential, with all the memories of what this village had done to me?" Naruto asked of them, revealing that he had full memories of what had been done to him. "Why would I go back to living in the slums, being a pawn in your games and just being a puppet in your hands, when I am now one of the most powerful persons in the world? Besides, I did die for this Village, so don't go trying to blame me for disloyalty and treason." Naruto added in a lighthearted manner.
"Yet you came back, alive and apparently stronger than before, not to mention older." Inoichi said with narrowed eyes, with Naruto shrugging his shoulders at that.
"Well, me being now being alive doesn't exactly nullify that I did die for you all, even though I do wish Orochimaru had turned this place into a pile of ashes, but we digress." Naruto said, as he decided to return to the reason he was here. "The point is that I am alive, and I am here to clear up the air, so to speak. Despite what you all may assume and believe, I am not here to destroy you all. Quite the contrary, in fact, I am here to talk to you, or rather, make a proposition."
"And what proposition would that be? That we apologize to you for what was done to you? Never, the Leaf and it's people would never sacrifice their pride and honor, especially to a demon like you!" One of the Civilian Councilors shouted at Naruto.
"Honestly, I would've been surprised if you did, but no. I propose a non-aggression pact between the Hidden Leaf and Kirigakure, as well as our countries in their entireties." Naruto suddenly proposed to them, surprising them all, as this was the last thing that they had expected. "Surprising as it may sound to you, but I am not all that interested in seeing you destroyed, despite all that had occurred. In fact, it would be quite a serious inconvenience if we were to become enemies because our past grievances, especially now when we both have far more pressing matters and enemies that need to be taken care of. I am sure you know who I mean, Minato." Naruto smiled to him with a knowing smile.
"And you seriously expect us to believe you? After all that that has happened, and with the way you just made your way here, not to mention taking hostages just to intimidate us, you dare to talk about peace?" Chouza Akimichi said with distrust towards Naruto, with said man turning towards him. "Any normal man would seek vengeance what was done to you, yet you speak of peace… I do not believe you one bit."
"To be blunt, I do not really care what you think about me, and as for me bringing along your infiltrators, I've simply decided to bring them along, as a show of good will and for the sake of efficiency." Naruto responded. "Had I wanted to, I would've had them all sent to the interrogation chambers, or executed if I was in a less patient mood. Moreover, let us be real for a second, you all would have done the same without a second of hesitation, unless it would hurt you more in the long run."
"And what exactly would we receive in return, if we were to accept this proposal of yours?" Shikaku Nara asked of Naruto. "What benefits can we gin from this sudden proposition of yours?"
"Well, for starters, you will lose a potential threat to your east and will be able to redirect your efforts to your more pressing matters, like Orochimaru and his Otogakure. Not to mention that your village as well as the Land of Fire as a whole will gain a new trading partner in my country, but along with that, other countries will also be far more open to resume their past relations with you." Naruto stated to them. "Grass, Waves, Spring and others, including Suna will all follow suit and again do business with the Leaf and Land of Fire, and from what I've heard and seen so far, losing all of those allies and trade partner was quite a sever hit to your economy and power."
"You think that we would just accept your proposal because of that? Can you even achieve what you are talking about?" Hiashi Hyuga asked of Naruto. "And what is it that we of Shinobi Clans stand to gain from supporting this notion? The way I see it, you just wish to safe yourself from our righteous wrath for the betrayal you've committed against us." Hiashi narrowed his eyes at Naruto, who simply let out a sigh.
"In case it was not so clear last time, I could've easily taken you all out when you just tried to attack me." Naruto reminded them.
"Yeah, like hell you would, you failure!" Menma decided to speak up. "Just you wait, when I and my sis get to you, we will…" At that moment, Naruto's eyes met Menma's and at that moment, the loudmouthed Shinobi instantly shut up.
"Go and sit in the corner, boy, while the grown-ups talk." Naruto simply stated to him in a cold tone, before turning to Minato. "Now then, Hokage, what say you? It does not take a genius to realize the benefits of having Land of Water as your ally, and with the way Kumo and Iwa are behaving, not to mention Orochimaru, you are dangerously short in terms of allies, and are in no short supply of people who would like to see the Leaf burn. It's up to you decide in which of the categories you want me to be." Naruto said to him in a carefree manner.
"And if I do not accept your offer, what will you do then?" Minato asked of him, with Naruto shrugging his shoulders at that.
"Then I guess I will go looking for friends somewhere else, like in Iwa and Kumo. I am sure Onoki, A and I will have plenty of things bond over, like our shared misgivings with the Leaf, or the fact that you, Minato, basically fucked us all up." Naruto replied to him with a small smirk. "With all of that binding us together, plus Suna joining in this collective, Leaf would be in a really bad spot when the next Great Shinobi War begins."
"You would so readily side with our enemies? You truly have no shame or honor, Naruto." At that remark made by Mitokado, Naruto simply chuckled.
"You forget- I am not your Shinobi, or rather puppet, anymore. I am Water Daimyo and I am here to discuss business as a grown up and responsible person, instead of simply trading insults. If you can't manage to keep yourself professional, then leave and stop wasting time, air and our time." Naruto simply dismissed Mitokado as if he was nothing, which immediately made the Elder angry at him.
"Enough." Minato spoke up, as he finally made a decision, turning to Naruto. "What guarantees can you give us that you will keep your word about this pact?" At that, Naruto pointed at the infiltrators.
"That is all the proof you need, Minato. I kept them alive, even Kushina, and mostly out of harm's way." Naruto reminded him, with both of them knowing that this was true, as well as the fact that Leaf needed allies right now. "It's up to you to take the offer or reject it. Either way, I've said my piece and returned your people to you, so I say it is time for me to return."
"What, you are just going to leave, just like that?" Jiraiya asked with surprise on his face.
"Of course. Why else would I waste my time here? Going about trying to destroy this place, killing everyone in sight? If I was after all of that, I wouldn't be here playing diplomat." Naruto noted. "Unlike you, Pervy sage, I've got a country to rule and people to care about, and I've been away for long enough as it is."
"Like you actually can rule that country…" Ino said with contempt, but Naruto ignored her.
"You've got two weeks to consider my offer and discuss it with your Daimyo. My ambassador will deliver that message to him tomorrow on the morning, so he shall be informed about everything. If you decide to take my offer, send an envoy straight to Kamakura and to my court before the end of the time, and if you do not…" A that one, Naruto had a small smile on his face. "Well, I guess I'll be entertaining ambassadors from Earth and Lightning. I hear they have quite unique tea ceremonies, and I have recently taken up in partaking in those when I have free time. I am curious, what properties their ceremonies have…" And with that said, Naruto prepared to transport himself, Rea and his escort out of here, when Kushina called out to him.
"Wait, Naruto, wait!" Kushina had managed to gain his attention. "You can't just leave like that. Do you not want to talk to us, your father and…" Kushina tried to speak, but was interrupted by Naruto.
"I have no need or wish to speak with you, and if I did, what would you want to hear from me, Kushina?" Naruto asked of her with a neutral expression, with Kushina saddened by the fact that he was so uninterested in her and her wish. "Besides, what is there for us to say to one another? That what you did was for the good of the Leaf, that you are sorry and that you wish to make amends?"
"B-but, we are family and I am your mother, s-so don't you…" At what Kushina just said Naruto's eyes narrowed, before he spoke up.
"We were never family, and you and your husband have never been my parents. And even if I wanted to make up with you, it would already be all too late. After all, I did die." Naruto reminded her, deciding not to prolong his stay in here. "You have heard my offer, Minato. Make your choice, and when you do, be sure to show your dedication to that course of actions, if you understand what I mean." And at that moment, Naruto and his entourage disappeared from the chambers and from the village.
"We should immediately send forces after them! They couldn't have gotten far away from us…" One of the Civilian Councilors demanded, before Shikamaru Nara shut him down.
"You can forget about it, you'll not be able to catch him or his escorts, because that wasn't a Body Flicker Jutsu, but a full on Space Time Ninjutsu, possibly Flying Raijin itself." Shikamaru stated, before turning to Kushina. "He must've used Kushina as a conduit to teleport us all here, by using the formula to track down the creator of it and then teleporting straight to it. That's how he got here from Kamakura… What a drag, it seems Naruto not only became older, but he is definitely not lacking for new tricks."
"Is that even possible, to use the Flying Raijin in such a way?" Shibi Aburame asked, turning to Minato and Hiruzen as the foremost experts on that.
"I… I do not know, I never attempted such a thing." Minato admitted, before they all suddenly heard a loud crushing noise and felt the ground shake beneath their feet, with whole building shaking as well. "What in the world is that…" At that moment, a group of three Anbu appeared right in front of him.
"Lord Hokage, there has been a… destruction of Village's property just now." Anbu commander stated with awkwardness, as this was clearly not something that he wished to state. "Mere moments ago, four out of five of Hokage mountain statues… They've been cut off from the mountain and came crushing down." Minato and everyone else looked at them with shock.
"Four out of five, all that the same time, came crushing down?" Hiruzen asked with shock in his voice. "H-have there been any casualties?"
"No, fortunately the statues came down without breaking apart into debris, and landed as solid pieces. Aside from the large clouds of dust and tremors caused by them, there were no damages done, but the people are bound to panic, if they haven't already. And also…" At that moment, Anbu commander took out an envelope and gave it to Minato. "This was found on the head of the Fifth Hokage, the sole one that is still attached to the mountain." Minato took the envelope and opened it, revealing the letter in it and reading it aloud.
"Consider this to be your first and last warning: if you decide to spit at my graciousness and open hand, I will give you the same blade that had severed those heads." Minato read, with the Council in shock at that. "Oh, and if you see Tsunade, tell her I said hi and invite her for a visit to Kamakura. I'm sure she and I have so much to catch up on. Sincerely, Naruto Uzumaki, Daimyo of Land of Water." And with that said, in one day, Naruto had revived his reputation as the number one most unpredictable person in the world, and Konoha was left reeling from the shock and effect of his statement.
Three days later. Daimyo meeting chambers.
As Naruto had promised, Fire Daimyo had received an official letter from Naruto himself with the proposition attached to it, as well as the notification that the Leaf had already received it as well. It did not take long for Daimyo to react and as soon as he could, he moved to Konoha to consult with the Hokage and others about it, since it would appear he could not fully make that decision. This was nothing new for the Leaf and its leadership, as they have long since gotten used to the fact that the leader of their country always asked their opinion about such things before making the ultimate decision. This gave them a certain level of influence and power in the decision making of the entire country, and they were the once who had influenced Fire Daimyo and his court to impose the new trade regulations on the Water in the first place, having been incensed by its increasing riches and influence.
They had hoped that in some ways, Naruto would be much the same way, but now they understood that he was a far different kind of Daimyo than what they had come to deal with in the past. His predecessors, the Imagawa, were far more self-centered and easily manipulated and made to do the bidding of those who held power in the capitol. At first, they thought that Naruto would be the same way as all that came before him, but instead… Instead, they learned that he was as decisive and direct, as he was different from the boy they knew. He took matters into his own hands, instead of relying on others, and it was clear that he held not just strong influence over rebuilt Kirigakure, but was commanding it in a practically direct manner.
It took little time for Minato and his Council to understand that Naruto was not going to be joking around and he was as serious as they got, and after his "little" warning, they took to considering his offer seriously. In all honesty, this was the offer that they never expected to receive, but were all hoping they would get, as it would solve a great multitude of problems. Ever since the many countries have cut their ties with the Land of Fire, both the country and the hidden village suffered a serious hit to their economy, and with the reduction in trade and resources from abroad came a serious reduction in clients. While they still had their regular clients to rely upon and had the funding from the Daimyo court, Konoha still suffered a serious hit to their riches and economy, as they no longer had as many partners to trade with and clients to work for.
Hidden Villages survived on both the funding from their Daimyo, but also on the revenue from the missions, and with the serious decrease in the latter came the funding cuts with the former, as Daimyo tried to counter the effects of the loss. This meant that Leaf was not able to maintain such a large force as it did before and had to decrease the number of their active Shinobi in the field, mainly firing or moving into the reserves Shinobi from civilian families. Unfortunately, this led to many of the Genins and Chuunins to outright leave the Leaf Village after they were fired and become mercenaries or bandits, since none of them knew how else to make a living. This in turn led to even more problems that the Leaf had to deal with, and this was further hampering their power and abilities.
Naruto's proposition was like a blessing from above and Leaf was more than eager enough to accept it, given their mounting problems, but they weren't blind enough to simply take it without at least analyzing it. And once they believed they had discerned the true reasons for Naruto to make such an offer, Minato, his Elders, as well as Hiruzen, Shikaku, Hiashi, Kushina and Jiraiya met with Fire Daimyo in the chambers allocated for such occasions.
"Hm, this offer that this ruffian has made… As much as it repulses me to even consider making deals with this upstart, he does offer quite good deals." Daimyo said in a mix of boring and prideful manner, showing his clear obliviousness to all gathered here. "And I hear that his country now gets all of the best silks from the East, and that just his commoners dress like my nobles do. It would not do for me to dressed in rags while his peasants prance about akin to nobles!" Daimyo said with indignation.
"You are entirely correct in that regard, Lord Daimyo." Minato agreed with him. "And while it may seem unsightly for a man of your station and lineage to make deals with Naruto, the Council and I have long and hard conversed about this entire situation, and we believe that it would be for the benefit of all of the Land of Fire, and you personally, if you were to agree to this offer."
"Really? What are those benefits we would get from working with this low-life? And do you really expect me to show affirmation to keeping my end of the bargain with him?" Daimyo asked with an insulted tone, before opening his fan and blowing it upon himself. "Seriously, who does he think he is? To actually the gall to demand me, Yoshihide Asakura, a Fire Daimyo, to comply with this… upstart and give affirmation to our dealings. My word is all that he needs, and even that is too much."
"Yes, you are entirely right, Lord Daimyo, and yes, Naruto is nothing more than a low-rank former Genin, who has turned his back on us and by some mysterious way found his way to become a would-be Daimyo." Koharu agreed, before adding. "And yet, as Lord Fourth has said, there is a great measure of wealth and power to be gained from cooperating with him… And this agreement needs not to be a long one, and his reign will not be a smooth or long one at that." Koharu said menacingly, gaining the attention of Daimyo.
"I understand that you some kind of a plan to deal with him, or something like that?" Yoshihide asked of them, with Hiruzen answering.
"Yes, Lord Daimyo. Lord Hokage and all of us have been in deep discussions and contemplation, regarding the entire situation and this proposal, and after a prolonged consideration, and regarding what we have managed to obtain through our sources, we have arrived to a certain conclusion." Hiruzen spoke. "It is our understanding and belief, that this offer that Naruto Uzumaki has made is not a sign of power, but is in all actuality a careful ploy to mask the weakness of him, his regime, made in such a way to appear powerful and strong. Yet, in all actuality, he is, in fact, a ruler who sits atop a fragile throne, and who can be toppled, if he is not careful."
"Really? What gave you such an idea?" Daimyo asked of them.
"We have known Naruto for a long time, and he was always a loud-mouth who liked to blister and make himself appear bigger than he really was. He may have refined his speech and ways of action, but at the end of the day he is still the same loud-mouthed child as he always was." Danzo Shimura spoke up. "This entire show was nothing more than a charade, meant to mask the weakness of his regime and power. As you well know, he has slain entire noble families, including the Imagawa Clan, just to secure his power, and while the commoners may be on his side, those of the noble class are clearly in a silent uproar with this upheaval in the traditions and status."
"His sudden openness to dialogue and diplomacy can only be explained by the fact that he is struggling to maintain his power and reign, and is now therefore seeking allies from abroad, in order to strengthen his positions. Furthermore, it can also be said that even Kirigakure follows him only in lip service, given the fact that the current Mizukage, Mei Terumi, is rumored to be his concubine." Shikaku Nara stated. "Naruto's position is fragile, and a military conflict with anyone right now would see his regime toppled in no time."
"Hm, then I say we start that very conflict and remove him from the face of the earth once and for all." Daimyo said with more enthusiasm.
"With all due respect, Lord Daimyo, wars are expensive and can be unpopular, and if we do become the ones who start this conflict, we may actually end up unifying the Land of Water behind Naruto." Mitokado noted, with Yoshihide being forced to admit that this was a strong possibility. "However, as you have said before, he is an upstart that is undeserving of his station, and only one as powerful and prestigious as you can be trusted to lead a nation like Land of Water. Hence, we have all come up with the solution that may satisfy not just you, Lord Daimyo, but also satiate that traitor, Naruto, while also laying the foundation for his eventual downfall."
"Really? Go ahead, I am eager to hear what you have to offer." Fire Daimyo said, with Minato speaking up.
"We will take his bait and agree to his proposal, and regain access to our former allies and also gain his markets and traders, so we will need to suspend the installed regulations. And as a confirmation and show of our dedication to this treaty, as is customary, we shall send envoys with plethora of gifts… But also a gift of women." Minato added, getting the attention of Daimyo.
"Women? You mean you wish for me to send a member of my own bloodline to him, is that it?" Daimyo asked of him. "Even if I had a daughter to begin with, I would sooner sacrifice her on a pyre than to give her to this monkey Daimyo…"
"We do not demand that you sacrifice anyone of great import, Lord Daimyo, only that the chosen concubine be a member, not even a direct one, of your family, and possessed good enough looks to entice him. She needs not be someone of particular mind of ability, only possessing enough attractiveness to get his attention." Hiruzen added, with Daimyo thinking about it for a little, before speaking up.
"Yes, I do have someone that could fit those criteria. A niece of mine, a daughter of my late younger sister and that rebel Lord who dared to rise up against me… I have been thinking of ways on how to be rid of her for years now, I was even prepared to just give her to one of my servants as a wife, for she is such a sore sight for years now." Daimyo said, before blowing his fan. "She is unfitting of my family, but she is of at least passable beauty, I was told, and could actually entice that uncouth leech. She will do nicely. Have you decided whom will you send to him as your sacrifice? I hope that it is not Natsu, for we have reached an agreement about her, Minato…"
"No, of course it will not be, Lord Daimyo." Minato assured him.
"My eldest daughter, Hinata, shall be sent to him as a concubine and gift. She is unfit to be an Heiress of Hyuga Clan and does not possess anything of value outside of her station, but the Demon Fox has been known to have a soft spot for her. Hinata too had harbored feelings for him for a long time, hence he will be more than happy to receive her as a gift to satiate his lusts." Hiashi stated to Daimyo. "Naturally, Hinata will be removed from the main family and placed into a side branch line, with the Caged Bird Seal placed upon her, as is customary, along with additional seals that will prevent emergence of Hyuga bloodline in their offspring."
"Are you truly prepared to sacrifice your own eldest child and daughter to such a man, just for the Leaf and me?" Daimyo asked of Hiashi.
"Hinata is of no use or consequence to me or my clan, and she has proven to be a failure as a Shinobi, especially when compared to her younger sister. This is the best use of her that we can come up with." Hiashi said with cold tone. "Think nothing of her, for she is nothing but a means to an end."
"Hm, very well, but I still do not see why we need to do this." Daimyo said with confusion.
"As I am certain you are aware, Lord Daimyo, Naruto in all his time as ruler has failed to produce an heir with any of his women. Your niece and Hinata Hyuga, as well as their accompanying entourage, will ensure that they are the only ones to gain his children, while his first wives and concubine remain childless." Minato continued. "With the concubines, we shall be sending our own people to create an effective net of Shinobi around him, ready to act at a moment's notice. Once both of the girls have birthed children, Naruto, his wives and their supporters will be quickly and efficiently disposed of, leaving the only legitimate heirs and rulers his children with your niece and Hinata. And through them and their offspring, you, Lord Daimyo, shall assume the complete control over Land of Water." After hearing an understanding what it meant, Yoshihide became positively giddy with the anticipation.
"Oh, what a cunning and brilliant plan! Yes, that fool will not know what had hit him! Well done, Minato, I couldn't have come up with a better idea myself!" Daimyo praised him. "I shall arrange the best gifts for him, make him think that I am all for this idea, and will have Akeno instructed accordingly with what she is to do. She has inherited her mother's looks, so she is bound to get that ruffian's attention, even if compared to my women she is only a meager and unremarkable sow… Anyway, enough about that. Tell me, Minato, how are things with Natsu? I am hoping that the issue with her being a Jinchuriki will be solved soon?"
"It will be, Lord Daimyo. Within a month, all preparations will be completed, now that Kushina is here again, her half of Fox will be removed and planted into Menma, without any harm to her or capabilities as a woman. And once she has made a full recovery, she shall be all prepared to become your daughter-in-law." Minato assured him, with Kushina bowing at that, with Daimyo looking pleased, when he heard the news. "We are eagerly awaiting the day when she becomes a member of your house, Lord Daimyo."
"So do I and my son. He is positively enthralled with her beauty and cannot seem able to think of anything else but her. You and your wife have served me most well, and since it is my younger son's wish, I shall be more than pleased to grant your daughter the right to bear our name and his children." Daimyo said with a pleased tone. "Although, I am a little concerned with the way she had been responding to the advances of my son. Are you certain that you will be able to reign her in before the wedding?"
"You have nothing to be concerned about, Lord Daimyo. Natsu understands her duty and role she has to play in the grand scheme of things, and I assure you, she will be more than happy and grateful for the grace you shall bestow upon her." Kushina assured him, with Fire Daimyo looking quite pleased with everything, already imagining himself becoming the ruler of two countries at the same time.
Land of Water. Minamoto's private estate.
Situated at some distance away from Kamakura and busy roads and highways, the private estate of Minamoto family served as resort for its members for decades earlier, and now it was a place where Naruto was allowed to enjoy several days of peace and quiet without being disturbed and bothered. Inherited by his first wife, Raikou, she had long since shared the secret of its existence with her husband, and he, as well as all of his wives, have made it their tradition to retreat her to spend time together, in a private and intimate manner, just to enjoy their life together. Now was no different, only this time it was Naruto being with Raikou and Asagi, while Mei was away in Kirigakure on an urgent case that popped up.
The trio were resting on a bench outside the house, stargazing and relaxing in each other's company, with Naruto in the center, with his wives on either side, resting their heads on his shoulders, enjoying the moment of peace and quiet while it lasted. And yet, like all such things, such things were not meant to last, and the beautiful silence was broken up by a troubled sigh coming from Raikou, with Naruto picking up on her distress.
"You've been sighing like this ever since we came here, Raikou." Naruto noted softly, as he gently ran his hand through her hair. "Are you still thinking about Konoha and what they might do?"
"It is hard not to, especially after what you did." Raikou noted, as she raised her head and gazed in his eyes. "You shouldn't have gone there in person, much less given them such an offer. They are undeserving of it, not after what they had done to you." Raikou said with the passion and anger, with Naruto gently reaching his hand and cupping her cheek, immediately melting her anger away.
"You know, your beauty shines especially brightly when you show your fury in display, Raikou." Naruto complimented his wife, with her embracing his hand. "But you have nothing to worry about. Our meeting was meant to happen, sooner or later, and as for whatever plan they may come up with, it is nothing that I have not accounted for."
"You certainly sound quite sure of yourself." Asagi noted, getting his attention. "Do be careful your confidence does not become arrogance, for it makes for poor shield."
"I shall take care to do so, especially with you always keeping me away from such needless things, my dear." Naruto assured her, as he moved a stray lock of hair away from her face gently.
"Do you think that they will actually accept your proposition? I would expect them to be too proud to admit that they are desperate for help." Raikou noted, as she laid on his chest, listening to his heartbeat.
"Of course they are too proud to admit that they need help and need this agreement, so in order to accept this sour pill, they shall come up with a plan to make this agreement into a scheme that will eventually win them the greatest boon possible- Land of Water itself." Naruto told his wives. "Konoha and its leadership, as well its people, have long since come to view themselves as superior in every way, and they believe that they know who I am, and how to deal with me. My sudden appearance and show of power will be seen as smock and mirrors to mask a supposed weakness and my offer will be discerned as a move of desperation, possibly to stem away those who would wish to destroy me."
"You mean, they will think that your rule and reign are weak, and that the people and nobles are itching to dethrone you and return our land into the state of disorder and chaos?" Asagi asked of Naruto, who nodded to her, with her chuckling at the idea. "They must truly be deluded in their contemplations and conclusions. Do they not know that the people see you as a deity, and that the nobles admire and love you for finally restoring peace and bringing them untold prosperity?"
"That is the thing, Asagi- they will see this as falsehoods and propaganda that is spread around by me, to make myself appear more than I am." Naruto stated to them. "In the past I was known to be quite a loudmouth, full of hot air and blister, and in their mind, I am still the same old knuckle headed boy that they are so used to dealing with."
"Which is something that you used to get them to do what you wanted, did you not?" Raikou asked of him with a small smile, already knowing the answer. "Appear weak when you are strong, and appear strong when you are weak… Someone has taken my advice to heart."
"I would be a foolish husband to ignore a wise advice from my wife." Naruto chuckled, as he held Raikou's hand.
"I still do not understand why go to such lengths if all you want is to get revenge on them for what they've done to you? Or you've forgiven them?" Asagi asked of him.
"Forgiven them? Never, Asagi, and as for revenge, this is it." Naruto motioned to her and Raikou, confusing her. "You, Raikou, Mei, Rea and everyone else, this country and my life right now- this is my revenge upon them. They have humiliated and belittled me, made my life hell and denied me any right to rise up above the station they set for me, and now… Now I stand above all of them, with a life and meaning that, I never could have dreamed, and most importantly, I have all of you. What better revenge I could ask for than this?" Naruto smiled to her, with Asagi smiling back and leaning in to kiss him on his cheek.
"So all we are for you is just a means to get back at them?" Raikou asked of him jokingly. "What a shallow husband I have…" At that moment, Naruto leaned in and captured her lips in a loving kiss, catching Raikou by surprise, yet she did not detach herself away from Naruto.
"Does my lady require more proof of how deep her husband can be?" Naruto asked of her once he broke their kiss.
"She might need a reminder about the full depth of her husband's love." Raikou said, as she leaned in to kiss him again, with Asagi simply shaking her head, waiting for their kiss to end, and then capture Naruto's lips with her own.
"If she is getting a reminder, than I require it too." Asagi said with a husky tone, with Naruto smiling, before picking both of his wives up at the same time and then carrying them to their bedroom, while they giggled along the way, before their giggles were replaced with moans and cries of pleasure, which would not abate until very dawn.
A week and two days later. Kamakura. Daimyo's Palace. Throne Room.
In the end, Naruto's proposition was accepted and as a show of good will and acceptance, the Fire Daimyo and Konoha have sent quite an array of gifts to show their readiness to this agreement. Jewels and gold, rare teapots and famous swords were among just the few things that were sent here, but what truly caught the attention of Naruto and his court were the women that came along with those gifts. Sending women to become concubines or wives as an affirmation of an agreement was an established tradition that Naruto was familiar with, but he wasn't entirely expecting the Fire Daimyo and Konoha to send them here to him, though this was not unwelcome in his eyes.
The sight of Hinata, dressed in finest of kimono and with her beauty in complete display was something that he definitely imagined, and the reality has beaten his imagination. The shy girl was still under his gaze, daring not to raise her head or to speak up, while Naruto observed and gazed upon her from his seat, admiring the beauty that she has become. Yet he did need to turn away from the object of his initial affections, and when he did he was greeted by the sight of a raven-haired beauty with violet eyes, whose beauty and appeal were enough to rival even some of the goddesses. Unlike Hinata, she dared to look him directly in the eyes, and in them played a wicked fire that promised things that men wished for, yet dared not ask for, but Naruto was not like most men, and Akeno Himejima clearly understood it.
Though in the past he was not one to pay much attention to politics and rumors from the Fire Capital, now Naruto made it his job to be informed about such things in detail, for anything that was happening in other Lands could have an effect on his own realm. To him, the name of Himejima Clan was not unknown, as he was well informed about that once distinguished and prestigious clan, which had been wiped out simply out greed and pride of a weak-willed man. The Himejima Clan was once one of the principal noble families in Land of Fire, owning vast swaths of fertile and rich lands, and commanding respect and power from their subjects, while also serving as among the more loyal subjects of the Fire Daimyo and Court. That had continued for centuries, until Daimyo Yoshihide Asakura, a man whom Naruto considered to be as pathetic as he was foolish, decided to strip the Himejima of their ancestral holdings and land, without having any solid right to it.
The Himejima rebelled and everything seemed to be heading towards a massive internal conflict in the Land of Fire, until the Himejima Clan were wiped out in a single night, with only the daughter of the Himejima Lord and his wife, the sister of Yoshihide, surviving the attack. That was about ten years ago, and now that same survivor was here, presented to him as a concubine by her uncle, who was clearly influenced by Konoha's leadership, who also did make a full use of this opportunity. Along with the two ladies, they've sent a large entourage of ladies in waiting, servants, cooks, doctors and more, with a great many of these same people being Shinobi in disguise, ready and waiting to do their duty.
It took Naruto a second to guess what their plan was, and he held himself from smirking at the idea that they would ever have any opportunity to harm him, his wives or their future children. He has already anticipated something like that, and has taken care to ensure that all of these infiltrators would not live long enough to take a single breath in the direction of his wives, but that is for later. For now, he had official business to take care of.
"Our Daimyo, Lord Yoshihide Asakura, sends you the best of wishes and regards, Lord Naruto Uzumaki, and has commanded us to inform you, that your gracious offer has been accepted. As a confirmation of his gratitude and dedication to this pact, he presents you with two of Land of Fire most beautiful maidens." The official envoy from Fire Daimyo stated, before turning and presenting the women. "Heiress of noble and prestigious Hyuga Clan, Hinata Hyuga, famed for her elegant looks and otherworldly beauty, and Lady Akeno Himejima, niece of Fire Daimyo himself and a woman of matchless beauty and grace unmatched by even the most dedicated ladies of court. Lord Asakura presents you to them to be your concubines and wishes that they bring joy and happiness to you. In addition to them, he also sends you all of the gifts he could gather from his personal treasures, with first among them…"
"I shall look at the trinkets later, thank you." Naruto interrupted him, before descending from his throne and moving past the envoy and coming near the two ladies, as they bowed on their knees to him. "Ladies, do please rise. Such ladies as you have no need to stand on your knees before me, especially when it hides your beauty from the eyes of others." At those words, Akeno rose up the first, looking straight into Naruto's eyes, while Hinata did so with far more nervousness in her movements, daring not to face Naruto directly, something that the envoy did not enjoy.
"Lord Naruto, please forgive Lady Hinata for her shyness, she is just…" The envoy, fearing that this would be taken as an insult, decided to intervene, but Naruto stopped him.
"There is nothing to be forgiven, for there is no insult made. Now, you and the rest of your entourage, leave us." Naruto commanded him, catching the man off guard, while at the same time secretly giving a sign command to some of his hidden guards.
"But, m-my lord, this would be…" Naruto did not spare him a single look.
"Did I stutter?" He asked of the envoy with a colder tone, with the man realizing that this was not up to debate.
"A-as you wish." And with this said, the throne room was quickly vacated of nearly all of the people, leaving Naruto with Akeno and Hinata, with the former bowing her head before him.
"Lord Naruto, it is a pleasure to make your aquintance. I have heard many intriguing and interesting things about you, and I must say that most do not do you justice." Akeno said with a smile, with Naruto smiling to her.
"Lady Akeno, the pleasure is all mine. I must say that I am at a disadvantage, being presented with a woman of your charm and elegance and meeting her in such conditions." Naruto replied, with Akeno chuckling at that.
"You need not worry with such things, my lord, for your welcome is the warmest I could have asked for." Akeno answered to him, with Naruto nodding to her, before turning to Hinata.
"Hinata." Naruto softly called to her, making her shudder a little, before she turned to face him, with a blush appearing on her cheeks, while he smiled to her. "I am sorry I was unable to say anything to you back in Konoha, but please know, that even all these years apart, you were in my warmest thoughts, and I am very happy to see you once again."
"M-my l-lord, s-such words a-are…" Hinata stammered as she tried to speak, but Naruto gently put his hand to her cheek and spoke.
"Please, Hinata. I may be a Daimyo to most, but to those who are precious to me, I am still Naruto, so call me that." Naruto told her softly, restoring a bit of her confidence.
"N-Naruto… It is you." Hinata said softly, as the tears began to roll down her cheeks.
"It is me, Hinata." Naruto confirmed it to her.
"I see that you and Hinata have already been acquainted." Akeno noted with interest.
"Yes, she is among the dearer persons to me, from the times when I was not a man I am now." Naruto replied, before gently rubbing away Hinata's tears with his hand. "A woman like you needs not cry before me, Hinata."
"I know, b-but I can't h-help it…" She said, as she gently took his hand in her own. "A-all these years, I-I lived a-akin to being in a nightmare, i-in a world t-that lost all color and meaning to me. B-but w-with you back… I-I can't stop thinking t-that all this is just a dream and I… I don't want it to end."
"Then I shan't let it end, Hinata, and this reality is your dream now." Naruto told her softly, finally managing to calm her down. "From now and until the end, I shall make it so."
"Such strong and passionate words… I fear I now feel envious towards Hinata, for even I would wish for a lover to say such things to me." Akeno said with a small giggle. "But then again, you two are connected by more than mere affection that much I can see. I can hope that in your heart there is room for more women wishing for your affection and care."
"You will find that my heart can encompass quite a few things and people." Naruto assured her, as he gently pulled away from Hinata. "But for now, I fear I must ask you to forgive me, but it would seem that I have received a rather unexpected guest, and who I wish to speak to." And at that moment, three figures materialized before Naruto, two of them being his personal Shinobi guards, and the other an ordinary looking serving girl.
"Milord, as you have commanded, we brought you." One of the guards stated, with Naruto nodding to him.
"Well done, you may return to your post." And once this was said, the Shinobi disappeared from sight. "Today seems to be full of surprises for me. First I get to meet these fine ladies, and then I see you among the people who arrived with them… Tell me, does Lord Hokage know that you are here, or is this some sort of personal mission of yours?" Naruto asked of the girl, who seemed to be quite nervous and unable to manage an answer.
"M-milord, i-if I have displeased you in some form, I-I…" She spoke with a fearful tone, before Naruto interrupted her.
"Let's dispense with the illusions. Your Transformation is quite good and the act is on point, but when it comes to me, there is nothing that escapes my sight, Natsu." Naruto called with a smile, shocking the girl, and forcing her to transform from the mere servant girl to the daughter Fourth Hokage and one of Nine Tails Jinchuriki, Natsu Uzumaki-Namikaze.
A little bit shorter than last ones, but I do hope that you find it to your liking. Now I shall keep it brief and say that while this may not be what you have expected, do keep in mind that this Naruto is far smarter than the normal one, and he is playing a longer game, and has far more things to take into consideration and mind. Naturally this agreement will not last, but until it breaks, he will make the best use of it, as will be seen in the future.
Do please leave a comment, a review, a suggestion about the future events, or ask a question. Your feedback helps me make this story even better.
Next time: An unexpected meeting; Akatsuki strike Suna, Water counters.
See ya!