-AN-

I'd like to say I'm some master genius with plans within plans. I however am not. If I was, I'd probably run for gov't office. Hell, I'd probably do well enough considering the current state of my country. Heh. Let's have some fun and enjoy friendly and fruitful banter between the Kage.

-Story Start-

A man's uproarious laughter rang through the hall, disrupting everyone's train of thought. Tsunade still stood where she was, turning and giving an exasperated look to the Raikage who had thrown his head back to further mock her. "Is something I said really so hilarious A?"

Laughter petering off into chuckles, A wipes a fake tear from his eye before nodding, "Uzushio as a major village? Are you insane? It doesn't matter how much influence they have accumulated. Uzushio or whatever they decide to name themselves is simply too young of a village to even dream of sitting in the same space as our five great villages."

Across from him Mei shrugs her shoulders, "Age really shouldn't be a factor at all. I thought we addressed that." Idly she nodded Gaara's way, who returned the gesture.

A shakes his head as Tsunade retakes her seat, "The Kyuubi container is an issue all into himself that needs to be handled as far as I'm concerned. Further, the Uzumaki have been wiped off the map once before. Obviously they can't defend themselves and much less a nation full of citizens." That it had taken the combined efforts of several nations to do so was left unsaid as to A that didn't matter. If you couldn't defend yourself from your enemies, you didn't deserve your place in the world.

Here Naruto clears his throat, leaning forward to tent his hands in front of his face as he rests his elbows on the tabletop. "I'd like to mention, the Uzumaki are very good about learning from past mistakes and making certain…corrections to behavior. Besides." Here he levels cold eyes towards A, "Stealing from us hasn't ended well for anyone has it?"

Frowning and considering the boy's words, A goes quiet and Onoki picks up the conversation, "Iwa will never recognize Uzushio anyway. So the debate is dead in the water."

Gaara speaks up as Naruto relaxes back in his seat, "Old men should consider the world they leave behind for others a bit more, not just their ambitions. Or failures."

"Watch your mouth pup. Much like the Raikage, I wouldn't mind putting you in your place if necessary." Onoki wasn't used to these youngsters being so uppity. Even his currently missing granddaughter was a pain in his rear. Something was wrong with this new generation.

Naruto snaps a finger to gain Onoki's attention, grin still on his face, "How's your granddaughter by the way? I did send her back alive and in one piece. Didn't even lodge a complaint with your Daimyo either for her unprovoked attack. I really think that should earn at least a small amount of goodwill shouldn't it?" Naruto's grin stretched further, "Or is she not worth that?"

Grumbling as indeed the foolish girl had disobeyed his orders and caused him nothing but headaches because of it. And here was the biggest one, the Uzumaki could cause him nothing but grief if he went to the Stone Daimyo. Where ever Kurotsuchi was now, she better stay lost for the time being. "Perhaps, I spoke hastily."

Giggling, Mei offered Naruto a nod, "You certainly have had an eventful few years haven't you Naruto-sama?"

"Oh you don't know the half of it."

Clearing his throat, Mifune gains everyone's attention again. "It seems, that while Uzushio has in fact gained quite the reputation, which translates into influence and some power, they are still a young nation." Mifune turns to address Naruto, "Do you have a rebuttal against this?"

Naruto nods, relaxed and smiling easily, "Sure, we're young and I get that. But we have support from older nations. Spring, formerly Snow, at the top of that list. And we are in talks with three of the five nations at the moment. We'd like to make it five for five, but old hatreds run deep it seems." Naruto mentally smirked, lay the fault in diplomacy at the other's feet, not his own. Make it seem like they were the aggressors here. "Plus, while yes we were nearly wiped out, the Uzumaki is an old clan. Our knowledge and name still carries a lot of weight even now. One day I'd like a real alliance between all of the nations, not this fake peace we have going at the moment."

Mifune's eyes widen, the elder samurai stroking his beard as he thinks about that. "No one has considered a true alliance between the villages, much less achieved such a feat."

A grumbles, "Because it's folly, the dream of a delusional child. The villages have been at odds for years and for good reasons."

Tsunade is the first to grumbled at that, "Old and outdated reasons perhaps. Times change."

Naruto agrees with her and nods her way, "Exactly. Times are changing and the measure of power is changing as well. I know you've all seen it. Perhaps it's time for the ninja population to come together, to consider a different path."

Mifune raises a hand to stall Naruto before he can begin a full on speech, "Please remember young Uzumaki, the issue for the moment is the inclusion of the Land of Uzu as a major ninja nation." Turning to the rest of the Kage assembled, Mifune nods to each, "Are there any further complaints against this that have merit?"

Mei and Gaara both shake their heads in the negative, while Tsunade crosses her arms under her bust, "I sponsored the brat, of course I'm all for his nation joining ours."

A seems to think on it as all eyes turn to him. At the least, he could publicly save some face, "I will reiterate that Kumo does not recognize a Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi as anything more than a tool. But, if the majority approves it then Kumo will as well."

All remaining eyes now turned to Onoki, who grumbles and shakes his head. He wanted to be stubborn about this, but realized that doing so would not help him. Plus, agreeing would give himself and A time to put together forces to march on Uzushio the first chance they got. Taking the shallow kunai wound now wouldn't be so bad. "The boy has power and influence in circles well above his station. Just on that alone Iwa can't truly deny what Uzu is capable of. I relent and agree to include Uzushio among our number." It'd be the shortest inclusion in history if Onoki had his way.

Mifune nods and turns to Naruto to address him directly, "With all in agreement, I would like to welcome you, Uzukage and Uzushio, as the sixth major ninja nation."

Naruto bows lightly to Mifune, "I appreciate the cooperation, Mifune-dono and assembled Kage." All that coaching from Koyuki was starting to pay off. Even if explosions could have solved that faster, watching A and Onoki squirm was nice.

A however still has something to say, crossing his arms as he grumbles. "You're young, you better be ready to put your ryo where your mouth is. This isn't a game."

Naruto turns to address the Raikage again as Tsunade sighs and leans on a balled fist, "You're welcome to try me if you'd like. I hear you're pretty fast."

Above the assembled Kage and arranged on the observation balcony, the various guards and escorts joined together in talks of their own while their leaders hashed out grievances and upcoming problems. Sasuke and Sakura are quick to greet Kakashi, coming together easily as a former teacher and student group.

Sakura was already elbowing him in the ribs as he leaned against the railing, "So so, Shizune convince you to move yet? There's some really good beachfront in Wave you might like if you don't wanna come to Uzu proper."

Sighing, Kakashi tried and failed to wave her off, "Shizune and I have talked, and we're going to decide on what to do next slowly."

Sakura ribs him some more, literal and metaphorically, "Oh c'mon. You know you wanna. Just think, Shizune-senpai in a bikini, daily."

That did get Kakashi's attention but he quickly shook his head, "I shall not be tempted."

Sasuke nodded to Kankuro as the Sand siblings came to join them. "Give it up, Sakura's already decided you're coming, so you're gonna end up with us sooner or later."

Temari sidles up next to the broody boy, grinning all the while. "Well if the scarecrow isn't ready, you can always make room for me. I've been meaning to make a trip to Uzushio for a while now." One hand idly adjusting her battle fan, she kept an eye on the Kumo team. That blonde was giving her an odd look she didn't like.

Kankuro sighs and leans against the railing next to her, "I wish you'd read the room. The last thing anyone here is worried about is your love life."

"Just saying, I have a move to make is all."

Closer than the others, Samui speaks up to the combined group of Konoha, Suna, and Uzu ninja. "It's odd, but with such powerful figures in their company, is Uzushio really the peaceful nation that it portrays itself as?"

Sasuke shrugs, turning his head to watch the woman quietly, "So far Uzushio hasn't attacked anyone unprovoked. And any retaliation has been just that. Retribution after we had been attacked."

On the other side of the Suna group, Akatsuchi of the Iwa group holds up a finger, having a point of his own to make, "Does that include the Hidden Sound as well? The Maelstrom, sorry, your Kage made it his personal mission to eradicate every Sound base he could find for a few years. That does not sound like a peaceful leader."

Ao had his arms crossed as he leaned against the back wall, trusting Chojuro to watch out for Mei while he subtly checked things with his Byakugan, "In the Uzukage's defense, the Hidden Sound has attacked every other nation on the planet in some manner. They were a scourge that needed to be eliminated." That the Uzukage did so on his own was a feat worth recognition and praise. "That Uzushio did so without the aid of the other villages will be seen as a mark in their favor. Not against."

Darui has a hand to his chin, mind racing as he thinks about that, "With that kind of power however, the question becomes who is really hunting the Jinchuriki? Is it some mystery faction that we all only know about in whispers? Or is it this apparently powerful nation that has risen to power faster than any other nation since Konoha? Something smells rotten here." All of the previous nations had collected the biju, used them as weapons to keep the tentative balance between them. Some new nation on the scene and potentially collecting the biju to tip the scales in their favor? All roads in Darui's mind kept going back to that one conclusion.

Sakura's mind is racing as she thinks about the situation on her own, willing to put both Kumo and Iwa in their place while Naruto did so below with their Kage. "I think Iwa and Kumo are worried mainly about retribution." Pausing as several conversations paused and silence descended on them, she looked up and focused mainly on the Kumo group. "Historically it was the Uzumaki who provided sealing innovations that every nation on the planet now uses even to this day. All of the techniques that we use to seal away the Biju originate from them as well. So thinking that Uzushio has some nefarious plot to use the Biju is just easy projection from nations who themselves have done just that." Here Sakura grinned and winked at them, "Historically speaking of course."

As one of the older ninja present, Kakashi coughed once and stood up a bit straighter, "If Uzushio is hunting the Biju, I have a feeling that their leader certainly wouldn't be here, trying to bring a peaceful resolution to things. Think on it. They haven't expanded past their own borders. Alliances of course not counted. Nor have they resorted to heavy handed tactics or strong arming to get other nations to comply with them."

Chojuro hums at that, leaning over the rail and steadfastly watching his Kage attentively, "I'm curious if that means Uzushio can be trusted or not in the end?" He knew his Kage trusted them sure, and they were good on their word for helping Kiri when asked. Trust was hard won in their line of work though and even now he still had doubts.

Akatsuchi shakes his head, "Their Kage is a Jinchuriki that holds the most powerful demon in existence and he is the son of my village's greatest foe. Unfortunately even if everything he says is true, my village simply will never accept him." The ninja might slowly come around though it was doubtful, but never the citizens.

Darui nods his head as well, "I have to agree. For Kumo's own reasons, trusting the Uzumaki has a null chance of happening."

Sasuke and Sakura both mentally had the same thought, that Kumo liked to experiment on Uzumaki and most likely knew that said clan would raze them to the ground if given the chance. It's Temari however who joins her brother at the rail with a grin, "Well thankfully having major alliances between three of the remaining great villages does wonders for keeping the peace." She would love to see Iwa continue to push at their borders from here on.

Attention returning to the Kage below, Mifune has directed the conversation to the missing Biju and what needed to be done to address the situation.

A has already turned to Naruto with gleaming eyes, "I'm sure you have some thoughts on the matter. You've had some run ins with Akatsuki, have you heard anything related to how many Jinchuriki they have at the moment? Unless of course you want to admit that it's you who is collecting them instead. You are the strongest, it should be child's play to subdue the others." A didn't believe that for a second, but best to throw the idea out there and sow some doubt.

Naruto chuckles and shakes his head, "A full on fight by any Jinchuriki can level landscapes and change maps. Does anyone really think I could keep such battles quiet if I was collecting them for myself?"

A knew of course that that was impossible. Yugito herself was supposed to self destruct with a specialized seal in the off chance she was going to be captured. Still, that didn't change that slinging some dirt was always worth it, "Perhaps, or perhaps you have other means to subdue them." Shrugging A decides to leave it be for the moment, "I suppose you're correct however, you wouldn't be able to keep such actions hidden from the entire world."

Onoki however has other information to add to the discussion. "I don't know, while one of Iwa's Jinchuriki has returned on recall orders, one more has gone missing and no teams sent have returned. Plus there's the Sanbi to consider as well."

Mei nods and decides giving up some information wouldn't be all bad, considering Onoki did so first, "Our own Jinchuriki, the six tails, has also gone missing recently."

Tsunade chimes in with her own thoughts, ignoring the minor flinch from Mei at the mention of the Sanbi earlier, "I does sound like someone is in fact collecting the Biju. But the question is, for what?" The Biju themselves at their base level were massive chakra batteries which if harnessed properly could be used for just about anything conceivable.

Naruto hums, keeping the fact that he knew Yugito, Fuu, and the Sanbi were all with him at the moment. "All that energy in one place might be a sign someone is building something." As an expert with seals, that list could be world ending in its scope. He didn't want to consider what he could do with a Biju's worth of chakra inside of an explosive matrix.

Gaara nods at that, mind traveling along the same path, "What would someone need with all that energy? What could they accomplish?" Gaara does turn to Naruto, breaking him out of his thoughts, "You're the seal master. Do you have a theory?"

Naruto did have one. Pain had his own ambition that went with his name. A world that came together in a shared pain of loss and hardship. "Akatsuki seems to want them, I'm still unsure why, but someone seems to be supporting the group from behind the scenes." Yes Naruto knew Iwa and Kumo might be up to something, but he didn't think it was solely them. Someone had to modify those ancient texts, and Akatsuki was gathering all of the Biju together for a reason. All that chakra? An ultimate illusion? The threads were starting to come together slowly.

Mentally Onoki grunts and worries that the boy might know what he and A are up to, but decide that that's impossible. No, he was on the wrong track towards someone else. That sat fine with the old man. Of similar thought, A shakes his head slowly, "No respectable village would consider ever working with such a group. It's blasphemy and against what we start for."

A cough draws all of their attention. Seeming to grow from the wall sideways, everyone took in what looked like a giant venus flytrap with both curiosity and confusion. Would someone truly be seeking to interrupt the great Kage here? Now? Foolish.

Finishing coming out to his shoulders, the green halves of the plant body of Zetsu opened, revealing the half and half black and white face inside. Giggling, White Zetsu addresses the assembled group, "That's an interesting thought coming from the Raikage of all people."

"Hypocritical to the max that one." Within moments all of the assembled guards are down and joining their Kage. Seeing this, Zetsu holds up his hands, showing them to be empty.

"Be at peace, I'm only here as a messenger. Only to talk, to talk."

"Well, leader wants to talk to you meatbags. Useless I say."

Tsunade stands again, frowning up at the yellow eyed monstrosity, "And why should we humor you or him? This is a closed session you know. The likes of you aren't welcome."

Shrugging, Zetsu frees a box from his robes before light emits from it and begins to take shape. "Welcome or not, we have a duty to perform."

"That's right useless meat, shut up and listen."

Hologram coming to life, the assembled mass of people were treated to the sight of Pain. He took his time to look between them all, eyes lingering on Naruto who's gaze hardens before Pain turns finally to Onoki. His voice is loud and clear as he begins to speak. "Interesting how quickly the villages forget their dirty pasts. Most of the great villages have called upon my group at one point or another. Each for their own reasons, to perform the jobs deemed too dirty for their own hands. You want to know why I am collecting the Biju? I'll tell you." Here Pain spread his arms wide, face still carefully neutral, "This peace the villages have built is fake, a thin sheet pulled thin over a mountain of corpses."

Mei turns to look at the older Kage, seeing some form of shame or irritation on all of their faces. "I need to be brought to speed, I was under the impression that we all considered Akatsuki as a terrorist organization."

Pain nods, "Indeed we are. But is not one's terrorist another's freedom fighter? However, things have…changed." Pain turns to stare at Naruto, "Someone has been working, quietly at first, but now loudly. A different path, towards a true peace not based on proxy wars and clandestine operations behind national borders. No sacrifice of children for entertainment or prestige." Pain turns away from Naruto then, returning to the other Kage, "I once believed in such a peace. But had deemed it impossible. So I had begun to collect the Biju in order to build a grand weapon. Something to remind the world over the true terror of war and death."

A slams a fist down on the table, rattling the large stone construction. "So you admit to everything then! Why should we sit and listen to you then?"

Pain holds up a single hand, to which Naruto tenses slightly before reminding himself that this is just a hologram. "For now, I wished to come before you to admit that Akatsuki is halting its operations for now. Because someone has challenged us on the basis that real peace is attainable, we shall sit back and watch. I believe you shall tear yourselves apart without my aid. But, if he is correct, then men like me will no longer be needed in this world."

Naruto grunted but kept his eyes locked on the older Rinnegan user, "So you're going to sit back on the hopes we self destruct huh? How benevolent of you."

Pain locked eyes with him, noting Naruto's blue eyes with a frown, "I told you once. This world may just show you that my path is the correct one. The only path."

"Peace is possible for us without bloodshed."

Pain smiles, "While Iwa had asked us for a favor, we'll be putting that on hold for now as well." Spreading his arms out and seeing everyone but the Kage tense, Pain decides this would be much more enjoyable. "Don't worry. I will happily crush your villages one by one if you choose to challenge me."

A stands, chair sliding back with the force of his movement, "Akatsuki is just a collection of failures. The might of the Kage would wipe your little group from existence easily."

Mei doesn't like agreeing with the Raikage but does acknowledge that in this he isn't wrong. "Why should we worry about you? Your threat seems very minimal to us."

Pain shrugs, hands lowering slowly, "You'll just have to continue on your current path to find out for yourselves." He turns once more to Naruto and bows with a smirk on his face, "I with you luck, young Uzukage. You're going to need it." Voice fading away as the hologram vanishes, Zetsu is left alone to giggle.

"Oh what fun what fun. I'm sure you lot can figure it out what comes next." Beginning to sink into the wall, White Zetsu gives them all a jaunty wave.

Black Zetzu isn't having it, "You'll all burn one day, you can't help but murder one another after all. I look forward to it." Finishing sinking into the wall, the assembled group is left in silence.

Silence that is ruined by Naruto turning to face Onoki head on, "So. You've got ties with Akatsuki then? Wanna explain?"

Crossing his arms, Onoki huffs and turns up his nose, "I don't have anything to answer for. Especially to the likes of you and your accursed blood."

Clearing his throat, Mifune tries to steer things away from what could become a conflict, "With this admission from Akatsuki, we now know what has been happening to the Jinchuriki. This now raises the question, what happens next?"

"If they are being honest." Tsunade's reply is near instant and she gains everyone's attention, "And it's a big if, that means the largest issue is in fact what we can do to lower tensions among our nations. Zetsu, or half of him at least is correct. We're likely to tear each other apart at this rate."

Gaara agrees with that assessment as well, "Suna has no grief involving the other nations. Having recently been used and betrayed by Sound, we've been endeavoring to reform ourselves. Especially for our misdeeds against Konoha."

Mei sighs as she nods along, "My own village's history is a long and bloody one. That takes time to wash clean, but it'll never fade. We won't run from who we used to be, but we joined with Uzu after all in order to show the world we wish to be better."

Naruto nods to her, "Well I certainly believe in you."

"Of course you do brat, they're helping you." A's voice cuts through the moment and all eyes turn to him. Crossing his own arms, he considers what to say. "Kumo will continue to keep to itself for now. We will not antagonize Uzushio, but we aren't welcoming you yet either. Prove yourselves and I may just change my mind." A's eye hardened as he looked at Naruto specifically, "I need to see your grit as a man. You understand?"

Naruto is grinning as he leans forward to match A's gaze, "I'll happily meet up with ya so we can hash things out. Man to man."

"You've got no chance boy, but you're welcome to waste the effort." A nods resolutely once as around them their guards all slowly return to the balcony and out of the way now that the intruders were gone.

Onoki grumbles and adjusts himself on his cushion, "This is all so pointless. Uzushio being one of us means nothing. Not until they prove that they actually want to work towards peace. Something they claim they desire." Onoki points a thumb towards Tsunade, "Just like the Leaf village, Uzushio could be an iron fist wrapped in silk. No different from the rest of us."

Shrugging it off, Naruto could see that apparently he had rattled the old men. "You're the one who seems set on provoking us. Keep it up, you'll find out what Uzushio is willing to do to protect themselves."

Tsunade sighs as she turns to the boy who she had a feeling was two steps away from enacting violence. "Careful Gaki, there's no reason to rile up the Tsuchikage. It's just old man bluster."

"The old man needs to lighten up some, I'm not gonna do anything to em." Naruto winks at her before relaxing back in his seat.

"Kids these days! You impertinent little snot! Back in my time we respected our ack-" Having rushed to his feet to shake his fist at Naruto, he was now holding his back while doubled over, "Aaaah, curse these old bones."

Giggling and shaking her head, Mei is all smiles as the mood relaxes a tad, "Perhaps Lord Tsuchikage should take some advice and relax some. Being so energetic isn't good for you."

Looking around the table, Mifune nods slowly, "For now, it seems that things are on a good track. The issue of Uzushio is resolved, so now it's just a question of what goes on from here?"

Tsunade raises a hand, calmly standing once again as all eyes turn to her. "I would love to see further and complete participation of all of the villages in the chunin exam program. Perhaps even some information exchanges. Like that Pain bastard said, if we stick to what we've done up till now we're just going to tear each other apart. We should be working towards building trust between each other."

Gaara agrees first, "Suna has no complaints about this and would be happy to up our participation in the exams."

"What information would the villages be sharing with one another?" Mei's question has everyone thinking. What was on the table here? Techniques? Training?

A is still grumbling, "Sounds like Konoha wants to skim information from the rest of us."

"What I want is for us to actually work towards moving things towards a more peaceful route." Tsunade sighed and shook her head. "Think on it. As times become more peaceful, our economies have to change. Look at Uzushio, while their military is growing and a good portion of their economy is coming from missions much like ours. A larger portion is technological exports."

Naruto holds up a finger with the largest shit eating grin he could muster at the moment, "Those trains weren't cheap to set up, but now every country linked with them can't live without em." Hot Spring, Frost, Rice. Koyuki wanted to add the lands of Fire and Wind to the network soon as well if her eventual negotiations with the Fire Lord went well.

Tsunade nods and continues, "Konoha has medical tech and knowledge that we would have no issues sharing. Technology geared more towards civilian life, especially staples like farming." Everyone seems to think about that, murmurs break out while Naruto snaps his fingers.

"I'm sure it would take some convincing, but Uzu wouldn't mind a technological exchange." If Uzu had to lose out a little to start foisting off creature comforts on the rest of the world, so be it. Who wanted to fight when a vacation was a few ryo and a days travel away?

Gaara grins as he turns to look at Naruto, "Hopefully that means Suna might be able to purchase a few of those airships of yours. They are rather impressive." The idea of making travel between the Wind country villages easier was too good to pass up.

Mei has her own thoughts on the matter now that it has come up. Transportation improvements would be essential to an island nation like hers. "Airships or just ships in general would be a boon for my people." It didn't help that most likely some of those ships would be built by the very clan she couldn't convince to stay within her borders. But, Kiri and Uzu were allies. That eased the sting a bit.

Interest peaked, A sat a bit straighter. "Airships huh? Kumo could benefit from such tech." Not having to traverse up and down mountains to reach the village would be nice. Of course, theft of engineering plans was always on the table.

Onoki grumbles, firmly against it all. "New technology isn't necessary. It'll make you soft."

Rolling her eyes, Tsunade sighs, "What do you say, is this a suitable plan for now? Something temporary until we come up with some concrete ideas?"

Most eyes turn to A, knowing Onoki wasn't going to answer right away. The Raikage sat and thought about it for a moment, considering his own plans before nodding in agreement in the end. "So long as each village can opt out of the information exchange if they so wish, I can agree to this."

Naruto nods, "That works for me."

Mei hums, "I hope no one opts out, this sounds like a good first step."

Still all grumbles but seeing no one changing their minds, Onoki finally relaxes back with a heavy sigh. "Fine. Maintaining peace through the great nations is what is most important for now. Not that I consider Uzushio one of our number just yet." Onoki takes a moment to point a finger at a smiling Naruto. "Be warned Son of the Flash. One wrong move from you or your people and Iwa will be there to crush you."

"Oh don't worry old man, I've got a v3 with your name on it. Just try me."

Tsunade again sighs heavily and turns to Mei, "We really should send the men outside to beat the snot out of each other." She turns to address the so far quiet and very polite Kazekage, "Gaara, don't you dare turn out like them. Meatheads don't make it far in life."

Gaara nods with a grin as Naruto rages at Tsunade instead, "I promise I won't start their bad habits."

Mei shakes her head, watching the loud blonde banter with Tsunade, "I don't know, it's rather exciting isn't it?"

Pausing to turn and wink at her, Naruto gives her a thumbs up, "There's always something exciting with me around."

"If I was a dozen years younger I would you something you pup." Onoki's reply was near instant and had Naruto turning his way next.

Waving him off, Naruto groans, "If that's your mindset you should retire then. Put someone in change who'll fight me."

"You uppity brat! Why I ack-" Interrupted in his ranting again, Onoki doubles over, "Akatsuchi!"

Chuckling as the young man comes down to help his grandfather, Mifune turns to address the rest of the leaders, "It seems that all relevant issues have been dealt with for now. Shall we call an end to this summit? Unless someone has something to add of course."

Naruto raises a hand, turning directly to the Raikage. "I only have one question. Just. One."

A nods while raising an eyebrow at the kid. Why did it seem like his demeanor was suddenly very different? "Make it quick, the journey home is long."

"Sure sure." Grin turning feral, Naruto keeps a firm gaze on the older and larger man, "Tell me. Orochimaru was operating in your country as well. I was hunting him because he had been experimenting on the remnants of my clan. But the base was already raided when my people got there. You wouldn't happen to know anything about the Uzumaki that were there would you?" A little lie, but not completely. Naruto had been hunting Orochimaru and his bases because he wanted to wipe him off the map. Finding and saving the Uzumaki was a nice and very serious bonus. He hadn't learned about the group until after he had found and started battle with Orochimaru after all.

Shaking his head, A understood now. "I know nothing of the sort. My operatives did find the base, but it was a burned out husk when we arrived. We left it be. Must have just missed your own team."

Naruto nods, "Must have been a bad rumor I heard then. My mistake. I withdraw my question." 'I'm going to gut him.'

'Woohoo! Finally some real violence from you!'

'Don't egg me on, it's really hard to keep this in.'

'I know.' Kurama sighed before knocking a fist on the simulated ground under him, 'Like you said. Be patient. You'll have your chance. You scattered your clones yes?'

'Yeah, Onoki and A both have seals on them now.'

Mifune looked around and noticed that no one else seemed to want to bring anything up, so stood slowly to address all assembled. "That will be the end of it then. This ends the Kage summit and the introduction of the Sixth great Kage." Mifune bows to all assembled before being escorted away by several of his samurai.

This left the Kage to stand and make preparations to leave themselves, their respective guards returning to their sides quietly.

A is the first to leave, strong strides forcing those with him to almost half jog to keep up. Behind him Samui watches the Uzushio group quietly, something unspoken there as her eyes trail Naruto before she turns to leave with her team. Naruto catches her eye for a moment and wonders at what she wants. Behind her the red head, Karui, stares him down with not quiet hostility, but not a friendly look either. Winking at her and getting a scoff in return, he could tell she was an Uzumaki of blood. But most likely just blood. There was no love there.

Leaving, Karui grumbles and turns fully away from the Uzukage, "He gives me the creeps. Is he really that powerful?"

Omoi nods, deep in thought. "I think you worry too much. Perhaps he's interested in you?"

"As if, I'd bite my own tongue off." She really, truly wanted nothing to do with the Uzumaki. Past or present.

Omoi shakes his head, thoughts already racing, "Well, think about it. It would smooth political issues between our villages if he was. Maybe you'll get married off. Huh…but then you would have kids with a real Uzumaki. Which would thicken their blood and maybe gain some of their traits. Which would give Kumo our dreamed super soldiers, born from the union of you and-" He's stopped in his rambling as Karui smacked him in the back of his head, hard.

Fist clinched, Karui leaned in to whisper harshly to the overthinking man, "Keep it up, I'll gut you in your sleep."

Sighing and shaking her head, Samui wishes things could be simple just once, "Knock it off, it's a long way back to Kumo after all. No reason to fight the whole way." Which they would if left alone. She knew that well enough.

Having snuck her way next to the explosive blonde, Mei was poking a well manicured finger into his chest while he chuckled nervously. "You know, you haven't visited me once in Kiri. A woman might think she was unwanted at this rate."

"I've been meaning to, but events have kept me busy is all. Nothing more." Naruto nodded quickly at the auburn haired woman. Just his luck, he might have to take Hinata to task for egging the Mizukage on. "How about I come visit after this?"

"I feel like you aren't being very fair. You have time for everyone else except for little ol' me?"

Naruto wanted to dispute that, because there was absolutely nothing that was little about this bombshell of a woman, but held his tongue. "How about I give you a ride?" Seeing her eyebrows skyrocket and hearing a gasp or two, Naruto raised his hands quickly and waved them back and forth. "On the airship, the airship! We can chat on the return trip and you can take a ship back to Kiri from Uzushio."

"Ooooh, how very delightful. I'd love that." Mei snapped her fingers as Ao and Chojuro came up to her shoulders, "We will be joining the Uzushio party on our return trip."

Ao sighed but nodded, "Yes Mizukage-sama."

Tsunade butted her way in, Sakura having nabbed Kakashi and were already walking away with him, "And just where is my invite, huh gaki?"

Rolling his eyes and turning to see Gaara and his siblings just behind Tsunade, Naruto waved a hand towards the hallway that would take them outside, "How about I just bring everyone back to Uzushio. We have enough to talk about after all." Naruto was grinning as he leaned to the side and saw Onoki being carried away, "How about it old man! Wanna visit Uzushio!?"

"Leave me alone you brat! Only way I'll trust being on the same vessel as you is if the world is on fire!" Everyone in the Kiri, Uzu, Suna and Konoha group watched the Iwagakure assembly leave, each in their own thoughts about the old man and his demeanor.

Sasuke is next to Naruto, grunting and crossing his arms over his chest, "Think he's going to be a problem?"

Naruto shrugs, "Most likely."

Kakashi tried and failed to remove Sakura from his arm as she tried, again, to convince him to come to Uzushio with Shizune. "Considering the history between Iwa and your father, it's almost assured that he is going to be a problem."

Naruto grins, "Well, I have something for A and Onoki both. I'm not worried at all."

Sasuke sighed, knowing good and well that Naruto did in fact have something planned for both elder Kage. "Please don't over do it."

"No promises."

Gaara chuckled, coming up to join them while his siblings flanked him, "I wouldn't mind a visit to Uzushio. We have the time. Plus I have something to talk about with you anyway." He could already feel Temari's stare on his back. Meddlesome woman.

Tsunade starts to walk alongside Naruto as they make for the entrance, "So long as you drop us off in Konoha, I'm all good. We have no reason to go all the way to Uzushio." Naruto hummed in response, and Tsunade slung an arm over his shoulder, "I mean it, no kidnapping me. I've got enough going on back home." Another hum, and the hold became a headlock. "You brat, you can't take me to Uzushio just to screw with my council."

Sakura sighed, looking back as Naruto didn't seem to fight at all as he slowly turned blue, "Sensei, he could answer if you didn't suffocate him."

Blinking, Tsunade looked down to the young man bent over and stuffed under one of her arms and face first into her breast, "Can't be, he's not struggling at all." Naruto held up a thumbs up, and that sent up alarm bells in her head and she quickly let him go. "Maybe you did take after Jiraiya a little too much."

"I nearly died a warriors death!" Catching his breath, Naruto bounced away from Tsunade, "You ogre woman! I'm a Kage now, you can't manhandle me like that!"

"You're a big boy, you can take it." Tsunade grinned and hooked a thumb towards Mei. He wanted to make her life hell did he? Two could play at that. "I'm sure you wouldn't complain if Mei did it."

Blushing, Mei put her hands to her cheeks, shaking her head back and forth, "Why I could never. So scandalous." At least, in front of people. Now behind closed doors?

Naruto didn't miss a beat however, "Well of course, she's actually young and hot. You're the one under a gen-" He just barely saw the fist rocketing towards his face, but was able to dance away, "Oh c'mon Baa-chan! Usually you would have laid me out by now! You've gotten slow!"

Chasing after the infuriating blonde, Tsunade held up a fist while tossing her hat to Gai, "Come back here you little ingrate! Take your lumps!"

Sasuke sighed as Gaara came up next to them. "These are our Kage, right?"

Gaara chuckled, "Would it help if I used my sand to hold them?"

"You really want to get in between that?" They both watched as Tsunade finally got ahold of Naruto, hurling him away to bounce off several pillars. "Really?"

Gaara sighed, "Perhaps not." It was going to be an interesting ride back to Uzushio at the least.

-b-

Tobi considered his luck recently. Getting dragged what felt like all over the elemental nations before finding a port town. Making way to Kiri to find the Sanbi only to get shipwrecked, and then being rescued because of a freak accident and now finally in the Land of Water. It had been a wild ride. However, the source of his bad luck, at least to him, just couldn't seem to leave him alone.

"Why do you follow Tobi? Did you develop a crush on Tobi?"

Kurotsuchi shook her head as they walked along on a dirt road, steadfastly following along behind the orange masked man as he reminded her, again, that she was not leading this time. "No way! I just. You know, you said you would help me with my thing, so I'm helping you with your thing."

"Tobi doesn't remember that. You must have imagined it. You should go away and figure yourself out." He was not in the mood to deal with anymore bad luck from this woman. Who the hell started a fire just by sneezing? Who got lost inside a room with only one exit and no windows?

"But, but, you said it! I heard you! What kind of man are you!?"

"The horrible kind." Tobi had no problem admitting that. He wanted to burn the world to the ground after all. Being seen as a nice guy wasn't high on his list of things he wanted lately. "Besides, stick with me and something bad might happen to you."

Crossing her arms again, Kurotsuchi smirked, "So you really do want to do something dastardly with my womanly body. You've finally come clean." It was fun to poke at him, he was pretty easy to rile up.

Said man grumbled as they came upon a large lake that emptied out into the sea. "I do not, in fact, want to do a damned thing to you." Reaching out with his senses, Tobi tried to locate the Sanbi's hiding spot. His information had pegged this specific island as the resting place of the reformed Biju.

Kurotsuchi giggled as the man paused and seemed to be concentrating hard on something. So she let him be. Instead she looked around the area they found themselves in. Heavy with mists as the Land's name suggested, she could appreciate the cool weather at least as the evening began to set in, the sun finally finished setting. Though she couldn't help be feel like the longer they stood there, the more frustrated Tobi became, "You uh. Having some trouble there? Are we lost?"

"We aren't lost…I'm searching for something." Something that was not currently here. And no matter how far he stretched his senses, he couldn't pick up a trace of it. Was his information wrong?

"Well what are you looking for anyway? Maybe I can help."

Sighing, Tobi waves a hand out to the sea, "Unless you know the location of a giant multi-tailed turtle, I don't know how much help you will be."

Kurotsuchi thought about that while Tobi wandered off while huffing under his breath. From his description, something did tickle in the back of her mind and with a snap she raised her hand, "Oh, like the thing I saw off the coast of one of the Uzushio islands?"

Pausing and blinking behind his mask, Tobi decided that there was no way her luck was that good. There was no way that his luck was that bad. This infuriating woman had seen the Sanbi? And hadn't said anything? Well, he hadn't exactly told her that he was hunting it after all had he? "You. What?"

Kurotsuchi nodded, "Yeah! When we were on the boat after being rescued, I saw a huge dark shape in the water with three tails. Or maybe it was three heads. Erm…now that I think about it I-" Kurotsuchi paused as suddenly she could see very clearing a spinning red eye behind that mask. "Um, I know I joked about it, but I will kill you if you try anything."

"You clearing saw something with three tails?" Watching Kurotsuchi nod, Tobi sighed and turned to begin trudging back to Kiri without a word. Was it karma? Had he done something horrible in a past life to deserve this? No. He blamed Kakashi for this.

Jogging to catch up, Kurotsuchi was more than a little curious, "Uh, everything okay there buddy? Where are we going now? What are you hunting anyway?"

"Doesn't matter, we're going to Uzushio."

"Oh yay! Does that mean you'll help me?"

"Yes. Anything to be rid of you faster."

"Oh don't say that, I think you're warming up to me." Kurotsuchi giggled as Tobi continued to grumble under his breath. This guy really needed to lighten up more. But at least they were headed to Uzushio now. That Uzukage better be prepared for the fight of his life!

-b-

Lounging about on a couch on the observation deck of the airship, Naruto contemplates what he was going to do next as night has fallen. Sipping on a drink while his free hand stroked through Hinata's hair as she slept with her head in his lap, he wondered about how long it would take for the Raikage to return to his village. He had patience, but not that much after all. Across from him a surly looking Tsunade dropped down on the couch on the other side of a messy low table he had been using earlier, a large bottle of sake placed down between them on the waiting table that currently held paperwork.

Sighing, Naruto gave a bored look to the old woman, "Really?"

Shaking her head and pouring herself a glass, Tsunade grins as she reached forward and refills his own, "Not a word, it's been a long day and we have more to talk about."

"Oh? Like what, things have been pretty calm between us haven't they? Ino and Hinata still make regular monthly visits as well don't they?"

"Oh sure, sure. Except the one person who needs to come and visit from time to time. You gallivant all over the world, saving princesses and destroying bad guys, but what about me? Left and forgotten that's what." Taking a sip and relaxing back, Tsunade let herself relax with this young man, "Please don't take after Jiraiya too much. Love him, but he's an idiot through and through."

"Oh ho, so you finally admit it do you?"

"Say a word and I'll skin you alive."

"I like my skin where it is thank you."

"Good." Tsunade is back to grinning, "Besides, someone has been stirring up the hornets nest. The Hyuuga have been bothering me nonstop ever sense their branch family left. And now that Hanabi is missing? Ugh, tell me you don't know anything, pretty please?

"Woo, the Hyuuga are missing an entire branch of their family, that is big news. Crazy." Naruto sipped his drink while Tsunade watched him quietly, her own drink paused at her lips. "What?"

Tsunade grunted and turned away, "If Hiashi ever finds out about the Hotaru, and them being in Uzushio, he's going to raise hell. And you know what? You're dealing with him, not me. It's your turn."

"What are we, divorced parents? He's your problem, not mine."

"You screwed his eldest daughter on his desk and then left with a majority of his family. This is absolutely your problem." Even if it had been worth a few good laughs at first. It was now becoming a problem. "Seriously though, do you know anything about Konohamaru and Hanabi?"

"Nope, but I'll tell my ninja to keep an eye out for them." Naruto was grinning all the same. Those memories had been good ones. Hinata really did have a mean streak in her once she opened up a little. Plus, he could never look at cinnamon rolls the same way again. Shaking his head, Naruto saluted her with his drink, "But fine, I'll deal with him if he ever finds out. Only fair I guess."

"Thanks, you little ingrate."

They both turned to see a bored looking Gaara descending the stairs from the upper levels. Naruto offered a wave while Tsunade saluted with her drink. "Shouldn't you both be sleeping?"

Naruto points at him, "Shouldn't you?"

Shrugging and pulling a chair over, Gaara sits between the others and off to the side, "Old habits are hard to break. I'm still so used to being up all the time."

"How's the seal doing anyway? Need it looked at?" Naruto had been curious about it and was comforted to see Gaara shake his head.

"No. In fact, Shukaku and I have been talking. Not much. But, enough." Gaara shrugged again and easily accepted a full drink from Tsunade, "We aren't friends. Barely allies even. But it is a start."

Naruto nods, "Well good luck, just know that I'm around if you need me to kick the shit out of him."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"Oh ho, more meetings without me? I'm hurt." Mei wasn't far behind Gaara, coming to join the group as well even if it was getting late in the evening. She instead chose to join Naruto on his couch, sitting on the opposite side from Hinata. "What am I missing this time?"

Tsunade hands her a glass with a grin, "Not much yet. Just some griping and easy drinks. Feel free to complain all you want."

Mei accepted the glass and leaned into Naruto. "Less complaining, but I do have so many questions for Uzumaki-sama here."

Shrugging, Naruto would not be embarrassed right now since he couldn't run away to begin with, "Somehow I doubt that any of them are about the villages or Uzu."

"Congratulations, as perceptive as ever."

Rolling her eyes and watching the Mizukage almost drape herself over the boy, Tsunade grunted, "I know it's well earned, but is there a woman alive that you've met and haven't charmed at this point? Because you're a regular little heart breaker."

Gaara looks to the Hokage, a smaller though rare grin on his face, "Hmmm, are you including yourself in that number Tsunade?"

As Mei and Naruto chuckle, Tsunade fights down the blush that erupts on her face against her will, "I don't know what you're talking about." Taking a drink, she ignores the Island Duo, "Hush will you. He's old enough to be my grandson."

Mei can't help but continue to giggle, "That isn't exactly a denial Tsunade."

"Do remember I can break mountains in half if needed."

"Ah, so touchy."

Relaxing back and just accepting Mei cuddling into his side, Naruto looks up into the metal deck above them. Mind trailing on his only real and constant concern, "I wonder. Do you think a real peace is possible with the world as it is now?" He can feel all eyes on him and continues along after taking another small drink. "Iwa's making moves to do, something in the near future. And Kumo? They've already attacked Uzushio once, even if it was through proxy with the Land of Sky. Is Kumo going to continue this proxy shit? Is Iwa going to join in?" Naruto sighed and shook his head, "It's like they want a new war to start." He had no doubts about how well it would go for them, but of course, he couldn't be everywhere at once. They'd get lucky and then? Well…Kurama said, people respected what they feared.

Tsunade had a bit more experience and shook her head at his concerns, "Kumo at least knows they can't continue as they have been. Your village sent the Land of Sky packing with absolutely no losses on your end. That's a huge deal as the Land of Sky was formerly one of the most feared nations on the planet. No. Kumo won't try that again, none of the smaller nations even match up to Sky, much less you."

Gaara nods with her conclusion, though his mind latches onto what was left, "That means something smaller. More subtle then. Kumo is good at that."

Mei is curious, looking down as she thought and ignoring the very solid muscles under her back, "Something like a strike team then? Or a single actor?"

"An assassin would fit." Naruto said aloud, free hand still stroking Hinata's hair, "Not sure it'd be a problem for me though."

Tsunade points at him with her glass. "That's the point though, you won't be the target. This is Kumo, they'll hit at something precious to you to force you in line with what they want you to do." Here she looks pointedly at Hinata in his lap, "It's well within what they have done in the past."

Sighing, Naruto grumbles and thinks about a conversation he had with Pain high above the streets of Rain. "I sure hope Pain isn't proven correct in all this. I want to build a more lasting peace without more violence. Without massive amounts of bloodshed." Thinking about it and eventually shrugging, he does concede one point. "Though, Uzushio won't shy away from bloodshed. We will defend ourselves however we must. We were too close to utter destruction in the past. I won't let that happen again. Not on my watch."

"Suna will stand with you. Till the end." Gaara grins and raises a glass to Naruto who nods and returns the salute.

"Thanks buddy."

Mei nods from his side, "Kiri will be there as well. Us islanders have to stick together."

Sighing and watching the three bond a bit, Tsunade takes another drink and finishes off her glass. "I sure hope you know what you're doing gaki."

"I have a small idea yeah." They all nod and raise a glass, clinking them against each other and all wishing for more hopeful and peaceful days in the future.

Mei however leans into him a bit more, offering him a sultry smile, "So. Who do I have to bother to attain one of those cute tattoos that your girls all have? Is there a story behind them?"

Blushing while equal parts cursing and praising his luck, he takes a drink to not have to answer right away. Gaara has no problem making it worse. "Most men would kill to be in your shoes."

Cackling and refilling her glass, Tsunade offers Naruto another toast, "You better stock up on those energy drinks boy. You're going to need it." Should she be a bit more worried that Mei was hunting the younger man? Maybe. Would it all be too hilarious to stop? Absolutely yes. "Come find me if you think he's knocked you up, I'll give you a checkup for free."

"Oh will you? That'd be delightful."

Naruto went back to looking up into the deck above him. This was absolutely not his fault this time. Hinata was taking the blame for Mei. He just wanted to relax from now on. The very shapely body at his side reminded him that that wasn't going to be happening anytime soon. Where was a super powered bad guy who didn't take hostages? Maybe if he was in combat all the time he could get some sleep?

Mei was leaning to whisper in his ear, "I wouldn't mind some shared time between myself, you, and this one here. She's fun."

Nevermind, his life was awesome and there was no need to change it.

-AN-

Political backstabbing is still alive and well, and Pain makes an appearance. We get a peak at just what Tobi is going through, and Kurotsuchi seems to be warming up to the masked idiot. But does Naruto have a plan for Iwa and Kumo? Well time will tell.

I'd like to say I had a concrete endpoint set for this story, but I really don't. I'm having a lot of fun here, and I'm def gonna be sad when it's time to end it. You've all made this so much fun and a joy to write, I can't imagine being done with this. Well, not yet anyway. But, From my outline we're starting to edge closer so long as I don't add anything in or get some new but silly idea. I still heavily doubt I'm going to go into a Boruto/future timeline. One because I don't have the patience to read it, and two because this world wouldn't allow Boruto as it is to be a thing in the first place. Well, we'll see when we get there. I might decide I need a break after this in the end.

Till next time ya'll.

-OMAKE-

If there was one thing Konohamaru could say he was good at, it was causing chaos. And while the hard to get to storage room had been easy enough to set on fire, escaping without being seen had been a little harder. But, as he and Hanabi ran down a beach while the large ship burned in the background, they both couldn't help but laugh as a dozen pirates gave chase. Well, Konohamaru was laughing as they reached the dune separating the beach from the rest of the land they were on, now hitting a wooded area. Hanabi on the other hand ran along, hand still in his, while berating him about the entire situation.

"You utter idiot! You said you had a plan! This is not a plan!"

"Sure it is, we're free and on land now aren't we?"

"And on the run! Do you not see that we're being pursued?" Hanabi turned back, just in time to see the pirate ship explode into a ball of fire and ash. "What?"

"Ah, must have hit the powder room, whoops." Konohamaru kept running, dragging Hanabi along before grunting and pulling her forward, "Sorry about this!"

"What are you eeep!" Tossed in the air for a moment, Konohamaru suddenly had Hanabi in a princess carry, "You brute!" She pounded on his chest lightly, but not enough to make him stumble. They were on the run after all.

"You'll thank me later!" Konohamaru wanted to fight, but even back on the ship he had noticed that he couldn't control his chakra very well. Maybe something in the food they had gotten? It would explain how they had gotten captured so easily. "At least we're somewhere populated! I can see a house ahead!" It was a nice little two story home, very homey really.

Hanabi wanted to scream about turning back and fighting, but even she noticed that she couldn't muster up her chakra like she should be able too. Chakra poison perhaps? Or the last dregs of a paralysis potion?

Pirates hot on their heels, the pair are just making it to the door of the home before it is thrown open and a woman's shape appears in a box of yellow light. Sliding to a stop, even the pirates pause behind Konohamaru and Hanabi, though one draws a sword and edges closer.

Tsunami could say that she was happily surprised, certainly not prepared to see two children running away from what looked like pirates. But, this was Uzushio. The land of the unexpected after all. Putting a smile on her face, she leans down to them, "Oh dear, do you need assistance?" Seeing both nod quickly, she stands up straight to stare at the men behind them. "You should leave now. It's your loss this time."

The lead man grinning and held up his sword, "Shut it woman, give us the kids before we carve you up as well." He had lost a lot of friends back on the ship. Most likely the captain was down as well. Now was the time to show strength and take the lead. "On second thought, why don't you come along as well. You look, delicious."

Tilting her head, Tsunami's smile falls just a bit into a small frown, "Oh dear, now you've done it." A single sharp whistle leaves her lips and instantly the clearing in front of her home is full of ninja. All of the pirates are down, disarmed and subdued easily. Tsunami watches the work be done before pointing towards the town, "I'm sure they aren't important, but take them in for questioning all the same will you?"

"Hai Lady Tsunami!" And then the ninja were gone, leaving Hanabi and Konohamaru alone with the obviously powerful woman.

Tsunami turned back to smile at them, "Now then, you're safe now." Tsunami eyed the girl in the boy's arms with a smile, "I do think you can let your friend down now."

Scrambling and blushing, both children shot away from each other as if on fire. Hanabi has the presence of mind to bow to the woman, "Thank you for your assistance in this matter. It is appreciated."

"My my, formal and polite. Tell me, what are your names?"

Konohamaru was grinning as he thumbed his chest, "I'm Konohamaru, this is Hanabi."

"I can introduce myself you irritating monkey."

"Oh yeah Princess? Wanna go back to why we were on a pirate ship in the first place?"

"That was in the past. We're here now."

"Of all the-"

Tsunami interrupted them by giggling and standing up a bit straighter. Spirited children weren't they? "Okay then, Konohamaru, Hanabi. And why are you out and about alone like this?"

Hanabi nods, "I was actually on a mission. I'm on my way to Uzushio to find my sister and convince her idiot husband to return home."

Oh dear, a young girl with a sister complex was it? Ho ho, she probably felt like her sister's husband stole her away then. But Tsunami was not one to interfere with family matters. "Okay well, I either know or can get a hold of anyone in these parts. What are their names?"

"Hinata Hyuuga, and Naruto Uzumaki."

Oh, well that made things a bit more complicated. "Well, I can tell you that they are away for now on business but should return within the week. Why don't you come in, I'm sure you have some amazing stories to tell." Ushering them inside, she wondered if the Uzumaki's were ready for this?

Walking alone behind the thoughtful woman, Hanabi turned to Konohamaru with a peculiar look on her face that the young boy couldn't place right away. So, he decided to wing it, "Something on my face?"

"No you oaf." She wanted to berate him, she really and truly did. But Hanabi was nothing if not proper and polite. Konohamaru had done her a great service after all. "You. Thank you. You aren't so bad after all, and you did get us free."

"Oh ho, so the princess can be nice."

"Don't make me regret it."

Grinning and nodding, Konohamaru takes the win for what it is. "Well you aren't so bad yourself Hanabi. You just need to relax a bit, go with the flow you know?"

Hanabi frowned, that warm feeling coming back to her, odd. "I will, keep that in mind." Now the next part of her plan went into effect, finding her sister and bringing her home. "So how far is Uzushio from here?"

Tsunami smiled as she sat them down in her living room, "Oh? I didn't say already? You're in Uzushio. Wave district, specifically."

Konohamaru grinned and gave Hanabi a wink, "See, things worked out. All part of my plan."

"This was not part of your plan."

"Can you prove it?" Seeing her go silent as the gears really started to turn in her head, Konohamaru's grin grew, "See, all part of the plan." This was turning out to be a lot of fun in the end. He'd have to thank Nii-san when he saw him.