A/N - Okey dokey. RNG decided to spit this one out, sooo...yay for another chapter of Obsession! lol.

Anyways, a loooot of things happen in this chapter. It turned out to be pretty darn interesting, if I do say so myself. A lot of it was completely unexpected, but I liked how it turned out, sooo...I left it in! lol.

Anywho, hope you enjoy!

Chapter 5 – Changes

It's been one week since Hiruzen Sarutobi was murdered and Tsunade had returned. It took some time to get word to the Fire Daimyo about what had transpired, and he was only now reaching Konoha to speak with Tsunade.

In the meantime, while she waited for him to get his ass to the village, Tsunade had begun cleaning house, so to speak. First, she had Shizune and a few trusted individuals look into the accounts of each of the civilian council members, as well as those of the three elders. She also made an inquiry into Minato's and Kushina's bank accounts. There were definitely some inconsistencies, and it pissed her off, especially because they had been leeching money from Naruto's parents' bank accounts, namely Minato's. No respect for the dead and their offspring. Fucking typical.

Tsunade had ordered the civilian council and the two remaining elders to return the money they stole plus interest. When Homura tried to refuse, she had literally ripped off his head and mounted it on a pole outside the Hokage tower. It quickly became apparent to everyone in the village that Tsunade and Naruto were NOT to be fucked with! So, with some reluctance, the civilians and Koharu had begun paying back what they owed.

The new Hokage (not quite officially yet) had also looked into her sensei's black book full of secrets and lies that he had told. She quickly found that he had attempted to gain access to Naruto's rightful home on numerous occasions and had even tried to convince the boy to sign over everything he owned via use of trickery and bribes. Thankfully, Naruto had been smart enough to question everything and hadn't signed over what was rightfully his to begin with.

On top of this, she found out that Jiraiya and Hiruzen had set certain events in motion to manipulate Tsunade in their own ways. Jiraiya had influenced events so that Dan, her lovely Dan, would die a horrible death. He wanted Tsunade to himself and couldn't stand the idea of someone else 'plowing her fields', so to speak. Hiruzen, on the other hand, had played a part in both Nawaki's and Dan's deaths. After all, they had big dreams for when they became Hokage eventually, dreams that didn't fall in line with Hiruzen's plans. So, in Hiruzen's own words, they had to be eliminated.

Another thing she found had her so infuriated that she decided Hiruzen's reign as Hokage had to be eliminated from Konoha's history. He would forever be a black stain on the pages of Konoha's great history, so long as she had her way. Hiruzen and Danzo had worked together to ensure the destruction of Uzushiogakure and their longtime allies: the Uzumaki clan. All because they couldn't stand the fact that the Uzumaki clan were growing so powerful so quickly. Their village was about to become known as the sixth great shinobi village, and they couldn't stand that fact. So, out of jealousy and spite, they had betrayed their allies and ensured the death and destruction of everyone there.

Tsunade had also begun implementing the medic program she had dreamed of for so long. Now, one person on each team was being trained in the art of medical ninjutsu so that more lives could be saved when out on missions. She also set it up so that those still in the academy that were interested could study the art as well. It would certainly help when it came time to determine the teams, as she could easily place one medic nin on each team to improve the survival rate.

The new Hokage had also informed Shizune about the deal Deus had presented to her. She explained to the black-haired medic that she was seriously considering taking the deal, but unless Shizune could swear fealty to Naruto and serve him rather than strictly herself, she couldn't promise her that Deus would do the same for her. This was difficult for Shizune, as she had sworn to serve Tsunade and Tsunade alone for the longest time. She barely knew Naruto, and he was still so young. But she promised that she'd give it some serious thought.

Now, however, was not the time to focus on any of that. Tsunade and the council were in the meeting room with the Fire Daimyo sitting in his own designated position. Looking him in the eyes, Tsunade said, "I'm going to get straight to the point, Daimyo-sama. I'm taking the position of Fifth Hokage. I'm only speaking with you about this out of formality, because whether you like it or not, I'm taking control of this village and running things my way from now on. Will you support me, or will you choose to go against me?"

The daimyo quirked a brow in curiosity as he looked calmly into her eyes. "I find it strange that almost immediately after Hiruzen died, you appeared in the village and decided to take over in his place. It makes me question if you had played some part in his death. I heard about the foreign shinobi that had infiltrated the village, but they were never found. I suspect that they were not enemy shinobi at all and were instead Konoha shinobi in disguise to try and fool the people of this fair village. I suspect that Hiruzen Sarutobi was murdered by one of this village's citizens. What do you have to say to that, Tsunade?"

Tsunade simply shrugged and said, "Whether that's true or not, and whether I had any involvement in his death, is inconsequential at this time. As far as I'm concerned, Hiruzen was served his just desserts for all of his crimes and is now rotting in Hell because of it. If I was here, I'd have killed him myself. And you didn't answer my question. Will you support me, or will you choose to work against me? I can tell you right now I'm not afraid of going against you, Daimyo-sama. I do not fear you or your guardians. I'm going to do what's right for this village as its new Hokage. That's a simple fact. I would prefer we work together to better Konoha and its relations to the other nations and villages. But if you do try to get in the way of my ambitions, you'd best be prepared for a fight, because I will have my way."

"You'd best be careful how you speak to me, Tsunade. I will not take threats made against me lightly. Not even you could challenge my army." the daimyo said, narrowing his eyes at Tsunade. "I will admit that you would make a much better choice for Hokage than a certain other Sannin we all know of. Jiraiya would not make for a good Hokage, and there is no way I would contact Orochimaru to take up the position after all he's done. So I will not oppose you taking the role of Hokage. However, if you make anymore threats against me, I will remove you and appoint someone else to the position, even if they are not quite as capable as you are. So watch yourself, Tsunade."

The blonde woman couldn't help but smirk wickedly at him. "So long as we understand one another and can work together, no threats will be needed. No action will be needed. Tell me something though, did you know everything Hiruzen had been up to? What he's done?"

The Fire Daimyo didn't even flinch as he asked, "And if I did? What would you do?"

"Please just answer the question, Daimyo-sama. Call it curiosity, if you'd like." Tsunade requested.

The daimyo looked into Tsunade's eyes searchingly, trying to determine exactly what he could expect from her. After some time, he decided to simply be honest with the woman. "I'm the one that gave the approval for Hiruzen to do most of what he did. Even if I hadn't, he would have gone through with his crimes anyways, I'm sure. This means that the deaths of Dan and Nawaki were approved of by me as well. But, you are in no position to exact vengeance against me, Tsunade. You'll simply have to deal with the fact that I am untouchable and leave me be."

Tsunade closed her eyes, her hair and the lighting casting a shadow on her face. At first, nobody was really sure what to make of what they had heard. They had no idea what Tsunade was going to do either. Then…she snapped her fingers. And in an instant, the Fire Daimyo's head exploded and his body collapsed to the floor. Looking back up, Tsunade had an evil grin on her face and said, "Thank you for being honest with me, you foolish son-of-a-bitch. Your wife, and eventually your son, will make suitable replacements for you. Pig."

Everyone's eyes widened in horror at what had just befallen their country's leader. Shikaku looked at Tsunade and felt a very cold shiver shoot down his spine. Oh shit. This is beyond troublesome. She's not taking shit from ANYBODY!

Shibi frowned as he adjusted his sunglasses. "Was that wise, Hokage-sama? He was our country's leader, after all. And killing him might have severe repercussions."

Tsunade simply smiled sweetly at Shibi and said, "I will not tolerate a corrupt person in charge of our country or this village. The daimyo's wife is much better suited to the position anyways, at least for the time being. She's always been a nice woman with a good head on her shoulders. Besides, the man admitted that he gave the approval for Hiruzen's evil deeds." Taking out a sealing scroll, she unsealed the documents within and passed them around. "Go ahead and have a look. I made copies for everyone here. Trust me, that man was not one who should have remained in power."

As the various council members read over everything, their eyes widened in horror. Hiashi scowled and clenched his fists angrily. "What is wrong with these people?! My brother… He died for their schemes. Goddammit!"

While the council members continued to pore over the evidence, the Twelve Guardian Ninja surrounded Tsunade, their weapons drawn and ready to attack at any moment. Looking between them calmly, Tsunade said, "I suggest you all return to the capital and inform the Daimyo's family of what has transpired here. Unless you'd like a sample of my new abilities as well? I have no problem killing all of you as I did him. However, I'd prefer it if you protected the daimyo's wife and child. You do still have a duty to keep them safe as well. So be good little boys and girls and shoo."

When Tsunade began to wave her hand at them dismissively, one of the guardian ninja stepped forward and asked a question on everyone's minds. "What kind of technique did you use to kill our lord? How did you kill him without ever touching him?"

The Fifth Hokage simply smiled at them and said, "You wouldn't understand it even if I explained it. Suffice it to say, my new friend has bestowed upon me some wonderful powers. Even better, my youth has been truly restored to me. I can have a family that I've dreamed of for so long because of him. And…" Standing up, Tsunade walked up to the guardian ninja that spoke and grabbed his weapon, running herself through with it. When she didn't scream out in pain or hell, die, their eyes widened in horror at the implications. "I cannot die. Fighting me here would be suicide for all of you. Now I suggest you run along home and guard the new daimyo. Shoo shoo."

The Twelve Guardian Ninja thought over their options for the time being, but in the end self-preservation won out and they quickly fled the room so they could make their way out of Konoha and to the capital. One of them stopped momentarily to grab the deceased daimyo's body before he, like the others, fled the room.

Once she was alone with the council once again, Tsunade looked down at her wound, seeing it healing rapidly. The only thing that truly bothered her was the blood now staining her clothes. "Oh pooey. Looks like I've ruined my clothes. Oh well, at least my point has been made." Retaking her seat, she looked around at everyone to see them all staring at her terrified. "Don't stop, continue reading. Hiruzen kept such a detailed account of all of his crimes. Why bad guys feel the need to keep such information where others can find it is so strange to me. I don't think I'll ever understand it. Still, the point remains that I will not tolerate corruption from ANYONE. As you can see, I won't hesitate to kill anyone that goes against me, even our country's daimyo. I do hope my point has finally been made?"

Everyone quickly nodded and began examining the evidence again carefully. As they did, Tsunade couldn't help but smile as she mentally thanked Deus for his wonderful gifts. While waiting for the others to finish reading everything, she closed her eyes and hummed happily to herself as she began to use her Future Sight. The way hers worked was quite simple. It was based on the crystal ball Hiruzen had so often made use of. All she had to do was focus on someone she wanted to check on and she'd be able to see what was happening with that person. So right now, she focused on Naruto to see how he was doing. Hmm. Naruto-kun. I can't wait for you to grow old enough to be with me. Marriage and a family sound nice.

Naruto

Naruto frowned in confusion as he looked around. He could swear somebody was watching him, but he didn't know who it was. Shrugging it off after a while, he refocused his attention on the written test he was taking. It wasn't difficult, but he still worried he'd screw up something and disappoint his lovely brides-to-be. It didn't help any that people like Kiba and Sakura were treating him worse than ever.

Kiba was pretty much trying to establish himself as the new dominant/alpha male of the group now that Sasuke was gone. He did this by harassing Naruto and trying to make himself look as big as his ego. Naruto easily ignored him, but the fact that he kept persisting in his attempts was just aggravating in a way.

Sakura, on the other hand, blamed Naruto for everything that went wrong. Now that her precious Sasuke-kun was gone, she decided to refocus all of her attention on terrorizing Naruto. Or at least, she tried to. When she went to scream in his ear at one point because he was ignoring her, he had punched her so hard in the throat she passed out from lack of oxygen to the brain. She was immediately rushed to the hospital, of course, and hadn't died. However, she still hadn't learned her lesson and this incident only cemented the fact, in her mind, that Naruto was a monster that needed to die.

Ino, on the other hand, started trying to take everything more seriously, starting with her ninja career. And, whether Naruto knew it or not, she wanted to make amends to him and try to be his friend, at the very least. She was terrified of the girls that usually surrounded him, however, so she wasn't sure how to approach him without somehow encroaching on their territory.

Finishing his test, Naruto took it to the front of the classroom and smiled at his girlfriends as he placed his test paper face down in front of them on the desk. Returning to his seat, he smiled to himself and quietly hummed a tune to himself. Glancing around the room, he was pleased to see both Yuno and Tsubaki had finished their tests and turned them in as well. They were both more intelligent than he was, so he wasn't surprised they would have finished so early. At the moment, Tsubaki and Yuno were across the room from him, as Minene and Anko had learned to separate the three of them so they couldn't cheat off of one another or disrupt the classroom by talking to one another during lectures and the like. Yuno and Tsubaki often spent more time focusing on Naruto than they did on class, so they had to be kept apart from their beloved Naruto-kun.

When the test finally came to an end a while later, Anko allowed Minene to sort through everything and grade the papers while she took their students out back to the academy training area. Deciding to get them started on spars, the Snake Mistress ordered them to start their stretches before she looked around at each of the students. Kiba and Sakura need to be knocked down a few pegs. I think it's time to mix things up a bit. Hokage-sama told us that we're free to do whatever we want to beat them into shape, sooo…this should be fun.

Once the students were ready, Anko grinned sadistically as she called out two names. "Naruto Uzumaki and Sakura Haruno. Get your butts in the ring."

Sakura blinked and asked, "Wait…what? But it's usually boys vs. boys and girls vs. girls! I don't want to fight some guy!"

"Too bad girlie. Nene-chan and I make the rules here, and right now, I'm saying there's no rule saying I have to keep it to same sex pairings. Now get in the ring, or else I'll consider your refusal an immediate forfeit. And you'll have to say out loud: "Naruto-sama is better than Sasuke could EVER be." How's that sound girlie?" Anko asked, a hint of sadistic glee in her eyes.

The pinkette scowled and stormed into the ring, taking her place opposite of Naruto. "I refuse to say something like that, especially when it's untrue! I'll show you and his 'girlfriends' just how weak and pathetic he really is!"

"Big words from such a puny little girl. Now, have fun you two! Go wild." Anko said, motioning for them to begin.

Sakura decided that she would go on the attack in the hopes of catching Naruto off guard. Her goal was simply to win the spar as fast as she could. However, when she threw a punch at his face, he blocked her punch and frowned sadly at her. "Your punch is weak, Sakura. And…" Slipping behind the pinkette, he grabbed her hair firmly in his hand and tugged on it hard, causing her head to snap back.

Glaring hard at him, Sakura struggled to try and free herself from Naruto's hold, but he flicked her in the forehead and told her to stop. "Sakura, if I can disable you like this, you might want to consider cutting your hair and making it shorter. If it helps any, I think you'd probably look pretty good with shorter hair. As it stands, your long hair is a weakness that can and will be exploited by enemy shinobi. You're cute too, so you might end up being subjected to things no girl should have to go through. Hell, nobody period deserves what sick people like that would do to you."

The pinkette stopped struggling as she listened to Naruto's words. When he complimented her, a small blush rose on her face. While she had always hoped Sasuke would say such kind things to her, it felt nice for Naruto to compliment her like that. When he released her, Sakura stood there staring at him for a moment, trying to decide what she should do or say. After a moment, she leaned in and placed a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you, Naruto. I forfeit, Anko-sensei."

Anko simply smirked at her and said, "Wise decision. Might want to be careful though, certain girls might think you're encroaching upon their territory."

Sakura blushed a bit as she looked from Anko to Yuno and Tsubaki. She feared them, and the venomous looks they were giving her were not helping that any. Still… Looking back at Naruto, she smirked and said loud enough for everyone to hear, "Naruto-sama is better than Sasuke in every way. He's kinder, smarter, stronger, and so much cuter."

Naruto blushed a bit, but before he could say anything, Yuno and Tsubaki growled angrily before the latter said, "You'd better not think of making a move on our Naru-kun!"

Sakura shook her head and said, "I had no plans to. I'm simply saying he's cute."

Anko chuckled before sending a look at her fellow sister brides-to-be. It was a look that said: "Don't kill her." So, reluctantly they nodded in understanding. Afterwards, she called up Yuno and Kiba, deciding that Kiba needed to be brought down a few pegs, and losing to a girl would really do the trick. At least she hoped it would.

As he stood across from Yuno, Kiba eyed her appreciatively, despite them both only being 10 at the moment. "I don't see what you girls see in that loser. If you want to get with anyone, get with a real alpha like me. Not some weak little omega. Then again, he wouldn't even qualify as that. Naruto's not even a blip on the radar! Now be a good girl and beg me to take you as my future bride. I'd treat you real well."

Yuno narrowed her eyes dangerously and said, "I'm going to enjoy breaking you, Kiba Inuzuka. You were told to refer to him as Naruto-sama, but you obviously didn't learn your lesson. Now it's my turn to beat some sense into you. Then again, even after I win, you'll probably stay the same arrogant jerk you always have been. Oh well."

Kiba scoffed and said, "I'll never refer to someone like that as -sama. I'm the alpha dog here, not some punk like him! I'll make you submit to me here and now. You'll be begging me to become my bride once I'm through with you!"

Yuno waited patiently as Anko announced the start of the match. When she did, the pink-haired girl began taking slow steps towards the arrogant Inuzuka. Kiba simply stood there, confidently smiling at her the entire time. When she reached him, Yuno smiled sweetly at him and said, "You should've gone on the attack while you had the chance. Showboating has cost you a potential victory." And with that, her hand shot up and two fingers entered his nostrils. Pulling his head forward, she smashed her fist into his face over and over again before she threw him behind her.

Spinning around, Yuno dashed towards him before leaping into the air. When she came down with an axe kick, Kiba rolled out of the way, only for his eyes to widen in terror as the pinkette's attack shattered the ground, leaving a small crater. "Phooey. I missed." she said with a shrug of her shoulders.

Turning to Kiba once more, she continued to smile sweetly at him before she disappeared and reappeared behind him, wrapping her arm around his neck and choking him. As he gasped for breath, she grinned evilly at him and said, "From now on, you call all of us by the -sama suffix, or I'll break you. Do you understand me little boy?"

Kiba tapped on her arm a few times, looking into her eyes pleadingly. "…t…go…he…help…"

"I asked you a question Kiba. If you don't want to pass out, or worse, you'd better give me the right answer. And judging on how your head is turning an interesting color, I suggest you say it quickly." Yuno said with a too sweet smile on her face.

The supposed 'alpha male' refused to utter the words she wanted to hear. So she choked him into unconsciousness before letting him drop to the ground. Without missing a beat, she kicked Kiba hard in the chest and sent him flying into some of the other boys in the class. "Fuck you, Kiba." Yuno said before she sat down beside her beloved.

"Looks like we're going to need to talk to Tsume about her son." Minene said as she walked up to the class. "He needs to learn humility and fast. If he pulls this kind of crap out there in the big, wide world, he'll get himself or others killed."

Anko sighed and said, "I'm in agreement with you there. It might be a good idea to get Hokage-sama involved in this as well. Kiba needs to learn his lesson, and it's obvious he's not learning it here at school."

Minene looked at the rest of the class and thought for a moment. Laying eyes upon Ino, she saw the look of determination on the girl's face and found it curious. "Tsubaki and Ino, get in the ring." she commanded.

Once the two of them had entered the ring, Minene announced the start of the match. Oddly enough, they were simply staring at each other, waiting for the other to make a move. Frowning slightly at this, the Mad Bomber of Konohagakure looked into Ino's eyes and wondered, This is strange. Normally she'd have just rushed in and started a catfight. Not now, though. It would seem she's trying to change and improve herself. How interesting.

While Minene kept an eye on the match, Anko turned and watched Sakura for a moment. She kept shooting looks at Naruto and blushing. It caused her to frown in concern, as she didn't like the idea of Naruto getting a fangirl like this. Still, she supposed it was better than her trying to hurt him for some stupid reason. At the same time, however, she couldn't help but feel a bit jealous, even though she knew there was no reason to feel that way.

Back in the ring, Tsubaki looked calmly at Ino and started creeping towards her little by little. When Ino finally charged forward, throwing a fist at her face, the red-eyed girl ducked and thrust her fist forward towards Ino's stomach. Her opponent parried her attack, catching Tsubaki off guard, before Ino nailed her in the side with a powerful snap kick.

Wincing as she stumbled towards the edge of the ring, Tsubaki narrowed her eye on Ino before she went on the attack once again. Employing the use of a feint, the red-eyed girl slipped inside of Ino's guard and landed a hard punch to her side. Unfortunately, Ino rolled with the momentum and slammed the back of her fist into Tsubaki's face, sending her crashing to the ground. Afterwards, the blonde took a few steps back and took up a defensive position once again.

Slowly rising to her feet, Tsubaki glared hatefully at the ex-fangirl and asked, "How the hell'd you get so strong so suddenly? It doesn't make sense. You were a weak Sasuke fangirl for a few years now! What the hell's changed?"

Ino simply cast a glance over at Naruto before her eyes returned to Tsubaki's. "I saw the truth and decided to better myself. I refuse to remain a weak little fangirl. From now on, I train hard to become the strongest kunoichi in the world. I don't care how long it takes or if my dream seems impossible. One way or another, I'll become the strongest and earn some respect not just from my peers, but my parents as well. I let them down and I hate that feeling. I want them to be proud of me. So I'm going to train harder than anyone can imagine until nobody can beat me."

Tsubaki narrowed her eye at the blonde. She had seen the quick look she sent towards Naruto and she didn't like it. "What are you planning, Ino? If you think you can hurt Naruto-kun, just know we won't let you."

The blue-eyed girl blinked a couple of times in confusion. Then, after a moment, she giggled and said, "You misunderstand. I have no intention of hurting Naruto. Rather…I want to earn his respect too. I want to try and be friends and make amends for my past treatment of him. That's all."

Tsubaki sighed and asked, "Don't tell me you're planning to kiss him too?"

Ino giggled and shook her head. "Not right now, no. Maybe later." she teased with a playful wink.

The black-haired girl sighed and palmed her face. "Ugh. What is it with girls and Naru-kun? I'm going to make this clear to you and Sakura both: Naruto-kun is OURS. I don't trust either of you with him. So don't go getting any funny ideas, either of you."

Ino simply giggled and said, "I'll make you a deal then. If you can beat me in this spar, I won't flirt with him, I won't try to win him over, and I'll stay away if you want me to. Buuut, if I win, and I will, not only will I get to be his friend, but I'll be his first bride."

Naruto's eyes widened as a bright blush quickly spread across his face. At the same time, the girls that loved him narrowed their eyes angrily at the blonde. "Why the hell would I ever agree to something like that?!" Tsubaki exclaimed angrily. "If I somehow lose, then…then you'd steal everything from us! He's OUR Naru-kun!"

The blonde simply shrugged and said, "Sounds to me like someone's afraid of losing. Tell you what, let's sweeten the deal a bit. If you win, I'll be Naruto's slave forever. I'll do whatever he wants me to. Absolutely anything."

Naruto just blushed worse at what she said and the way she said it. Tsubaki narrowed her eye angrily and growled out, "No! You…you can't just make up some deal like that! Naruto-kun…"

Ino sighed and said, "Wellll, if you're that afraid of losing to me, you might as well forfeit now. Save yourself the humiliation."

Before Naruto's girlfriends could stop her, Tsubaki growled out with fists clenched at her sides, "Fine! I'll accept your deal, and when I beat you, you'll have to start calling him Naruto-sama! You'd better be a good slave, or else you'll regret making such a deal!"

The blonde grinned sadistically and said, "I knew you'd see things my way."

Yuno clenched her fists angrily and whispered to Naruto, "Tsubaki better win this. I want to be your first bride. I don't want this bitch taking that from me!"

Naruto frowned and whispered back, "I'm sorry Yuno-chan, but…I don't think Tsubaki-chan's going to win this one. Tsu-chan's letting her anger and frustration get to her, whereas Ino is calm and composed. It doesn't look good."

Yuno could feel tears welling up in her eyes. "But…I want to be your first everything. This isn't fair!"

Hugging Yuno close, he kissed her forehead and smiled kindly at her. "It'll be okay. Even if you lose out on that particular first, we can, umm…well, there's other firsts you can have. Let's put it that way."

The pinkette blushed when she realized what he was trying to tell her. "O-Oh…I see. O-Okay, Naruto-kun. If you say so."

Back in the ring, Tsubaki threw a punch towards Ino's face, only for Ino to redirect it and halt Tsubaki's momentum. Immediately afterwards, the blonde nailed Tsubaki with a quick uppercut, jarring the black-haired girl. Jumping up, she kicked Tsubaki in the chest with both legs and sent her stumbling backwards. Before her opponent could regain her bearings, Ino rushed up and landed a combo of punches to Tsubaki's chest and stomach. When her opponent collapsed to the ground, unable to get up, Anko reluctantly called Ino the winner of the spar.

Tsubaki could feel tears streaming down her cheeks. She had failed and now this…this BITCH was going to steal her Naruto's first time! Or at least she'd steal the position of first bride. She didn't know which was worse.

Ino helped Tsubaki to her feet before she walked up to Naruto, kneeled down, and kissed him on the lips. Afterwards, she smirked and sat herself down in his lap. "I hope you don't mind me joining this polyamorous relationship of yours?"

Naruto sighed and said, "I don't think I'm the one you should be worried about. My girlfriends aren't too happy with you right now, but you did win fair and square." Wrapping his arms around Ino's waist, he pulled her back against him and whispered, "Just because you've claimed the position of first bride doesn't mean you can take my other firsts away from them, especially Yuno-chan. Okay?"

Ino simply smirked at him and said, "Gotcha, Naruto-kun. I'm looking forward to a beautiful relationship with you."

The spiky-haired blonde sighed softly and said, "Welcome to the family, Ino-chan."

One year later

Things had certainly been interesting for Naruto and his girlfriends, Ino included. They had considered taking Ino to see Deus Ex Machina, but had decided against it for the time being. While they trusted her, especially after all this time, they were still hesitant to introduce her to Deus.

Sakura had also been an interesting development. She had built up the courage to try and be Naruto's friend, even apologizing to him for all the things she said and did to him. She had also had her hair cut short and then proceeded to ask if Naruto thought she looked pretty. Naturally, the kindhearted blonde told her she looked more than pretty, she looked gorgeous. This caused her to squeal happily before glomping him to the ground, hugging him tightly. It was obvious to everyone that she had developed a deep crush on the blonde, but again, they were hesitant to fully accept her into their lives as one of them. And until they were ready, there was no way in Hell they'd take her to meet Deus.

Just as they feared, Kiba hadn't learned his damn lesson and still considered himself a superior alpha male. No matter how many times he was beaten by Naruto or one of his girlfriends in a spar, he kept that same mindset. Tsume had tried to snap him out of it, but he just wouldn't listen! As a last resort, they were considering bringing in Tsunade and letting her scare the crap out of him.

Thankfully, Shizune had finally come around and was now ready to be introduced to Deus Ex Machina. So Tsunade took Shizune and Tonton to go and meet the mighty god. Now here the three of them stood before the mighty god. The black-haired medic nin was so startled by what she was seeing that she dropped Tonton to the floor. "B-Big. Very, very big." Shizune said.

Deus chuckled and proceeded to give her the same gift he had given to Tsunade and the others. Then, just for good measure, he placed a finger upon Tonton and gave her the gifts as well, just so they wouldn't have to watch their darling pet die someday. Afterwards, he motioned with his finger for somebody to come out of hiding.

Upon seeing who it was, Tsunade's and Shizune's eyes widened. "K-Kushina?! B-But how?! You were dead! I could've sworn you were dead." Tsunade questioned, not quite sure what to believe at the moment.

The redhead smiled sadly and said, "The Kushina of this world is, indeed, dead. I…am different. I am from another world, or rather another dimension, parallel to this one. In that dimension, I never married Minato. I never had children. I never died. But I always felt like a part of me was missing. When I met Deus-sama, he opened my eyes in a way and asked me to help him look after Naruto-kun in this world. When I first laid eyes on Naruto…my heart hurt. He's the son I never had. He's the family I wanted so desperately. But…at the same time, Deus has suggested that I be something more to him when the time comes."

Tsunade frowned and said, "That's all well and good, but if you were brought to this world to be with him, then where the hell have you been? You haven't taken an active role in his life yet at all."

Deus sighed and said, "That would be my fault. I've had Kushina looking into things for me, as well as dealing with threats to Naruto-kun's safety. She recently completed a task I set for her to do, so I insisted that now was the time to at least meet you, Tsunade."

Kushina frowned and said, "Obito Uchiha. He's the one responsible for unleashing the Kyuubi on the night of Naruto-kun's birth. I killed him so he could never harm anyone ever again. However, the damage has been done and now the leader of the Akatsuki plans to collect the nine bijuu in the hopes of using their power to bring peace through violence. It doesn't help that Danzo made an enemy of Nagato and Konan. Danzo was really, really good at making enemies for Konohagakure. If he wasn't already dead, I'd have killed that old bastard myself."

Shizune frowned and asked, "Can't we do something about them? Like let them know that Danzo is dead and we want to make peace with them? Anything at all?"

Deus shook his head and said, "Sadly, it would not be that easy. Pain's mind has been clouded with hate for years now. Konan has tried to speak with him in private, to ease his mind and put his heart at ease. Alas, she has not had any luck. She's considering leaving the Akatsuki and warning someone so the people of the Elemental Nations can prepare for the threat that the Akatsuki poses. I have already sent Muru Muru to collect both her and Itachi. Those two will make wonderful guardians for Naruto-kun."

Tsunade frowned in thought for a time before looking at Kushina. "Now that you're free to do as you'd like…will you reveal yourself to Naruto-kun? I'm sure he would love to meet you. Even if you aren't his mother, he would still appreciate your friendship."

Kushina nodded and smiled in response. "Yes. I plan to introduce myself to him real soon. For now, we need to deal with Konan and Itachi."

The blonde woman nodded in understanding. When Muru Muru appeared with both Konan and Itachi, the immortal saluted Deus and exclaimed, "Muru-chan reporting in Deus-sama! One Konan and one Itachi Uchiha, here for your amusement! Vroom vroom!"

Deus chuckled at Muru's behavior before he looked at both Konan and Itachi, who were currently looking up at him with wide eyes. "Sit, eat some popcorn. We have much to discuss, Konan and Itachi. But first, allow me to show you something. He will be the topic of our conversation."

The blue-haired woman and Itachi watched as a large screen appeared before them. From there, they took a seat, ate some of that yummy popcorn, and watched the life of one Naruto Uzumaki play out before them. When it was finally over, Konan looked up at Deus and asked, "Why show us all of this?"

Itachi frowned in thought for a time before he said, "You've brought us here because you want us to look after him, didn't you?"

Deus smirked and nodded his head in confirmation. "You always were a bright one, Itachi Uchiha. If I were to restore your eyesight and bestow a gift upon you that would negate that nasty side effect of your Mangekyo Sharingan, would you play the role of Naruto-kun's guardian?"

The raven-haired Uchiha shook his head sadly. "I'm afraid I can't. I'm sick. I have a disease that is slowly killing me. I'm not sure how much time I have left."

The god nodded in understanding. "I see. Then, if I were to purge this disease, cure your eyesight, and bestow upon you the power I have promised…will you be his guardian? Or do you still want to insist that you deserve to die for killing your clan of traitors? Your little brother turned into a psychopath and has been locked away for his crimes. He cannot 'avenge' your clan. In truth, you are the last true Uchiha and it will remain that way until you either die or sire an heir. What will you choose to do, Itachi Uchiha?"

Before Itachi could say anything, Kushina walked up to him and said, "I suggest you take the offer, Itachi. I want my son to be safe, and you two can make it happen. What you did was not a crime. You are a good man that was dealt a bad hand in life. That is not your fault. So please Itachi, support my son."

Itachi's eyes widened as he looked into Kushina's eyes. "K-Kushina-sama? You're alive?" The redhead chuckled softly and explained the circumstances to Itachi. When he nodded in understanding a moment later, she smiled. Itachi turned back to Deus and said, "I will do it. From now on, I serve you and Naruto, Deus-sama."

"Good." Deus said as he purged the disease from Itachi, cured his sight, and gave him his gifts. Afterwards, he looked down at Konan and asked, "And what of you, Konan? Naruto-kun is an Uzumaki, just like Nagato. Perhaps young Naruto-kun can get through to him. Perhaps not. What really matters to me is that you take care of Naruto-kun and protect him from any and all threats, even your old group. Should you refuse, I'll send you back to Amegakure. However, you should be warned that Nagato will kill you sooner or later."

Konan looked horrified at the possibility. "Y-You can't know that for sure! I…I can talk to him. I can change his mind! He…"

"I have foreseen it, Konan. You can calm him for a time and change his mind only so often before he eventually kills you for questioning him the way you have been. He may be too far gone for anyone to truly save him. If you want to make amends for his crimes…serve his family. Serve Naruto-kun and try to make things right. You will eventually have your chance to change Nagato for the better." Deus said, smiling down at her.

The amber-eyed woman frowned for a time before she eventually nodded. "Very well. I will serve this Naruto Uzumaki. What exactly would our duties to him entail?"

Deus simply smiled and said, "Simply be there for him. Protect him. Love him. I don't how, just make sure to keep him happy. And Tsunade, I expect you to ensure that they are allowed to leave the village on missions with Naruto when the time comes. They serve him now, after all, and I do believe keeping Naruto-kun safe is our top priority."

Tsunade shrugged and said, "I can think of some way to make that happen. For now, I would like to introduce these three to Naruto-kun. If that is all, Deus-sama?"

The god nodded and watched as the rather large group disappeared back to Konoha. Once they were gone, Deus glanced down at Muru Muru and asked, "And when are you going to reveal your true form to Naruto-kun and his, er…harem?"

Muru simply shrugged and said, "When I feel like it. Naru's still got a bit of growing he needs to do before I even consider it. Besides, this form's kind of fun. It helps that people always underestimate me when I look like this."

"True enough." Deus said before he looked down at his companion. "Could you perhaps pop more popcorn? That is quite the delectable treat."

Muru simply giggled as she walked off to do as her master requested. Looking forward to playing with you Naru-Naru.

Naruto

A now 11 year-old Naruto was currently practicing katas for Anko's taijutsu style in his backyard. His girlfriend, Ino Yamanaka, was currently watching him so she could offer him tips or point out what he was doing wrong. She seemed giddy at the fact that she could see him without his shirt during this time. Sweat was glistening as it rolled down his body and she couldn't help but giggle a little pervertedly to herself every now and then. Hey, she was a young girl entering a weird stage in her life! Give her a break! When Naruto finally stopped a short time later, he used a towel to wipe himself off before he went and sat down beside Ino. "So how'd I do this time, Ino-chan?"

The blonde girl smiled at him and said, "You're definitely improving more and more the more you practice. I think you're doing really well, Naru-kun."

"Thanks Ino-chan." Naruto said before he gave her a kiss on the lips. "It's almost time for dinner now, huh?"

Ino smiled and nodded her head. "Yes, it is. I still wish you'd let me move in with you. Then again, I suppose I understand why I can't just yet. I will have my way someday though, I guarantee it!"

Naruto chuckled softly before he stood up and took her hand in his. Walking together inside, he kissed her cheek before he went off to take a shower. Meanwhile, she took off to start cooking dinner for the family.

Shortly after she began to cook, she heard someone entering the rather large house, or was it a mansion? She really wasn't sure. Either way, she finished with the preparations before she turned to see who had entered the house. Standing there were the Fifth Hokage, her assistant, and three other people. Two were completely foreign presences to her, while the third… "Itachi?! You're Sasuke's older brother. Are you here to hurt Naruto-kun? If you are I won't go easy on you!"

Itachi sighed and said, "I guess I should have expected a reaction like that. Why don't we help you in the kitchen while we wait for Naruto-kun, hm? I'm sure he'll have a LOT of questions."

Ino simply nodded, not sure if she could trust her own voice right now. So instead, she led Itachi and Konan into the kitchen so they could help her cook.

Sometime later, Naruto came into the room and, upon seeing not just the Hokage, but her guests as well, he asked, "This is going to be a long conversation, isn't it?"

Tsunade nodded and said, "It will be. First Naruto, I would like to introduce Itachi Uchiha and Konan to you. From this day forth, these two are your guardians. They'll be your bodyguards, your friends, your family, whatever you require of them."

Looking at Itachi for a while, he simply nodded to him in greeting and understanding. Afterwards, he looked at Konan and had to admit that she was beautiful, but she also seemed a little…depressed? Stoic? He wasn't quite sure how to put it. Still, he nodded in greeting to her as well. Afterwards, he turned his attention to the redhead. "And you are? I assume you already know who I am."

Kushina nodded and decided to just come out with it. "Naruto-kun, my name is Kushina. Kushina Uzumaki. In a way…I'm your mother."

Naruto narrowed his eyes at her before turning his gaze to Tsunade. "You were right. We have a LOT to talk about. This had better be good." he said calmly, though inside he wasn't sure how to feel. One thing was for sure though: if he didn't like what he was hearing, there'd be hell to pay for whoever was involved.

A/N - And that's the chapter!

As you can see, a lot of things happened in this chapter. I still haven't been able to get to the real big time skip that I'd like to do. I want to get to graduation and team placements dammit! lol. Still, this chapter was important, sooo...yay? I dunno. XD

Anyways, I'm not sure what else to say. Sooo, hope you enjoyed the chapter! I don't know what I'll work on next, so just keep an eye out for whatever. XD