The next morning, Naruto woke up early, the soft light of dawn filtering into the room. As his eyes adjusted, he glanced over at Haku, still peacefully sleeping beside him. Her delicate features were relaxed, and her long hair spilled across the pillow. He couldn't help but smile at the sight, feeling a warmth bloom in his chest as he remembered the kiss they shared the night before.

So this is what love feels like, Naruto thought to himself, his heart racing a little as he quietly slipped out of bed. He didn't want to wake Haku yet, so he decided to let her rest while he took a quick shower.

After washing up and dressing, Naruto headed to the kitchen. He knew how much Haku cared for him, and he wanted to return the gesture by surprising her with breakfast. He wasn't much of a cook, but he remembered some of the simple meals Iruka had made for him back in the day.

Determined, Naruto cracked a few eggs into a bowl, heating up the stove as he fried up some rice and sliced vegetables. The smell of food slowly filled the house, and Naruto smiled, hoping Haku would enjoy the meal.

As he worked, his thoughts wandered back to the day ahead. The meeting with Mei and Zabuza weighed on his mind, and there was still the uncertainty about returning to the Leaf Village. But right now, in this quiet moment, all he cared about was Haku and making sure she was happy.

Just as he finished plating the food, Naruto heard the soft sound of footsteps behind him. He turned around to see Haku, still looking a bit sleepy but smiling warmly at him.

"Good morning," Haku said softly, her voice gentle as she approached.

Naruto grinned, holding up the plates. "Good morning! I made us breakfast."

Haku looked surprised, her smile widening as she walked closer to the kitchen. "You cooked?"

"Yeah!" Naruto replied, a bit sheepish. "I wanted to do something for you since you've been looking after me so much."

Haku's cheeks flushed slightly, clearly touched by the gesture. She took a seat at the table, watching as Naruto placed the food in front of her. "Thank you, Naruto… You didn't have to."

"I wanted to," Naruto said, sitting across from her. "I just… I appreciate everything you've done for me. You're really important to me, Haku."

Haku blushed at his words, her heart swelling as she looked into Naruto's sincere eyes. "You're important to me too, Naruto."

They shared a quiet moment before digging into the breakfast Naruto made. It wasn't perfect, but Haku ate it happily, knowing it was made with care. The warmth between them made the meal even more special.

As they finished up, Zabuza and Mei entered the room. Zabuza, always blunt, crossed his arms and asked, "So, Naruto, how are you holding up? Ready for another round of training later?"

Naruto grinned, feeling more at ease after spending the morning with Haku. "I'm good! And yeah, I'm ready whenever you are."

Mei, standing beside Zabuza, smiled but quickly moved to the important matter at hand. "Naruto, we need to talk about your decision. Are you ready to go to the Leaf and face whatever comes? We can't delay this any longer."

Naruto's expression turned serious as he glanced at Haku, who nodded encouragingly. He looked back at Mei, determination in his eyes. "Yeah. I'll go to the Leaf and settle things with them. I don't want this hanging over me anymore. It's time to resolve everything, so I don't have to keep running."

Mei nodded approvingly. "Good. The sooner we get this done, the better. But remember, Naruto, we're with you in this. You're not alone anymore." She smiled softly, and even Zabuza gave a small nod of approval.

"Meet us at the village gates when you're ready. We'll be departing shortly," Mei instructed.

Naruto turned to Haku, who had already begun cleaning up their dishes. He could feel the weight of the upcoming journey, but knowing that Haku would be there made it more bearable. "Let's get ready," he said, and Haku agreed, heading off to gather her things.

Once they were packed and prepared, Naruto and Haku met Zabuza and Mei at the gates of the Hidden Mist Village. The air was crisp, and the village was starting to wake up as the four of them prepared to set out for the Leaf Village. Naruto felt a mixture of anxiety and resolve. He had been banished from the place he once called home, but now he was heading back to settle things, even if it meant facing people who didn't accept him.

"Are you ready for this?" Haku asked gently as they stood side by side, waiting for Mei and Zabuza.

Naruto smiled softly at her, feeling reassured. "Yeah. With you guys by my side, I feel like I can take on anything."

Mei stepped forward, signaling the group to move. "Let's go. The sooner we arrive, the sooner we can resolve this."

As they departed, Naruto glanced back at the Mist Village, a place that had unexpectedly become a home to him. With Zabuza, Haku, and Mei by his side, he felt ready to face whatever awaited him in the Leaf. This time, he wasn't returning as the same outcast he had once been. This time, he was stronger—and he had people who believed in him.

Gaara woke up early, already dressed in his Kazekage robes, ready for the important discussion ahead. He stepped out of his room and made his way to the Hokage's office in the Leaf Village, where Tsunade and Jiraiya were waiting for him. The air was tense with anticipation as Jiraiya began to speak.

"Gaara, before we get started, I need to tell you about Naruto—" Jiraiya began, trying to ease into the conversation.

But Gaara, sharp and focused, cut him off immediately. "I don't care what you have to say about him. If Naruto isn't here, I won't believe anything you say. I want to see him myself."

Tsunade and Jiraiya exchanged glances, both knowing how much Naruto meant to Gaara. His demand wasn't unreasonable—it was more than just a political matter for him. It was personal. Jiraiya raised a hand to calm Gaara.

"Don't worry, Gaara. Naruto should be arriving this morning. He promised he'd come," Jiraiya reassured him. "I know how important this is for you, and for him too. Naruto has been through a lot, but he's stronger now. When he gets here, you'll see for yourself."

Gaara's gaze softened slightly, but his stance remained firm. "Good. Then I'll wait. I won't make any decisions or listen to any explanations until I see Naruto with my own eyes."

Tsunade nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "We're expecting them soon. Once Naruto arrives, we'll discuss everything. The alliance, the misunderstanding with his banishment… everything."

Gaara stayed silent for a moment before turning toward the window, looking out over the village. His thoughts were filled with memories of Naruto—the one person who had reached out to him when he was lost, the one who had shown him that he could change. The idea that Naruto had been banished from the village that once held so much promise for him stirred emotions Gaara wasn't used to.

"I'll wait," Gaara said firmly, his voice calm but full of intent. "But know this—if I don't see Naruto, if he's not truly a part of this discussion, then the Sand's alliance with the Leaf will be in question."

Tsunade and Jiraiya both felt the weight of Gaara's words. The tension was high, but they knew that soon enough, Naruto would arrive, and everything would be brought to the surface.

As Sakura, Hinata, Shino, Kiba, Kakashi, and Kurenai walked along the path toward their mission destination, the morning mist from the nearby waters of the Land of Water began to thicken. The mission was a simple one—escorting a merchant back to the Village Hidden in the Mist—but it still required diligence. Kakashi and Kurenai led the group, both on alert, though the mission seemed routine.

Up ahead, they spotted several figures approaching from the opposite direction. Sakura squinted through the mist, making out the unmistakable form of the Mizukage, Mei Terumī. Beside her walked a tall, broad figure that made Kakashi stop in his tracks—Zabuza Momochi, a man he once fought in battle. But something was even more strange: another figure, masked and wearing the garb of the Mist's ANBU, walked just behind them. And next to Zabuza, a woman with long black hair and an elegant stride that exuded calm.

Kakashi's eye narrowed as they approached, his mind reeling from the sight of Zabuza. He had been certain the rogue ninja was out of the picture since their last encounter. What was he doing here? His gaze then shifted to the masked Mist ANBU figure, a strange sense of familiarity washing over him, though he couldn't place it.

As they crossed paths, Kakashi spoke up. "Zabuza… Please don't tell me I have to give you a round two. What are you here?"

Before Zabuza could respond, Mei Terumī stepped forward with a calm smile, her presence exuding confidence. "Don't worry. We're just passing through on official business. We have a meeting with Lady Tsunade."

Kurenai raised an eyebrow, glancing between Kakashi and Mei, sensing the tension. "A meeting with the Hokage? Is something going on between our villages?"

Mei waved her hand dismissively. "It's nothing to concern yourselves with. Just some diplomatic discussions."

Zabuza, though, was eyeing Kakashi with the same old cold stare, but there was no hostility this time. It seemed as though his loyalty had shifted entirely to the Mist, and he wasn't interested in old fights. Haku, walking quietly beside him, kept her gaze down, staying out of the interaction, while the masked ANBU stayed silent.

Kakashi gave a slight nod, accepting their explanation, but something still nagged at him. His gaze shifted to the boy in the ANBU mask again. There was something familiar about the chakra he felt coming from him—something that felt oddly like… Naruto?

But Naruto was banished, wasn't he? This couldn't be him.

Just as Kakashi was about to speak again, the Mizukage's group moved forward, continuing toward the Leaf Village. Zabuza gave Kakashi one last glance before disappearing into the mist with his group. The silence that followed was filled with questions.

Naruto, still donning the Hidden Mist ANBU mask, followed closely behind Mei, Zabuza, and Haku as they reached the gates of the Leaf Village. The guards, accustomed to seeing various shinobi pass through the village, were thrown off by the sight of the Mizukage's entourage—especially the masked blonde in their ranks. The guards exchanged looks, sensing something familiar about the boy but unable to put their finger on it.

Mei stepped forward with her confident air, nodding to the guards. "We're here for a meeting with the Hokage," she said, her voice calm yet authoritative.

The guards, not daring to question the Mizukage, opened the gates but continued to eye Naruto. One guard leaned to the other, whispering, "Something about that kid… He seems familiar. You don't think…?"

The other guard shook his head. "It couldn't be. He's gone. Exiled."

As the group passed through the gates and into the village, Naruto could feel the weight of the Leaf Village's eyes on him. It was strange being back—almost surreal. The village that had once been his home now felt distant and foreign. Still, hidden behind the ANBU mask, no one knew it was him, and that gave him some comfort.

Ahead, waiting for them near the Hokage's office, were Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Gaara. Naruto's heart pounded as he saw the familiar faces. Tsunade stood tall, her face a mixture of concern and authority. Jiraiya's expression was neutral, though Naruto could feel his former mentor's eyes scanning the group closely, especially lingering on him. Gaara, on the other hand, had a more intense look, his eyes searching for his friend, as though he could sense Naruto's presence without even seeing his face.

"Welcome," Tsunade said, her tone formal. She looked over the group but paused slightly when her eyes landed on Naruto. Her gaze shifted between him and Jiraiya for a moment, though she said nothing.

Mei greeted Tsunade with a respectful nod. "Thank you for receiving us. We have much to discuss."

Gaara, however, seemed less interested in the formalities. His eyes never left Naruto, and his voice was soft but firm as he spoke. "Where is Naruto Uzumaki?" he asked, cutting straight to the point.

The air grew tense as everyone in the group turned their attention toward Gaara. Mei and Jiraiya exchanged glances, while Tsunade shifted uneasily, but none of them immediately answered. Naruto, standing quietly behind his mask, felt the weight of his friend's words, knowing he would have to face him soon.

Before anyone could respond, Jiraiya stepped forward, trying to defuse the tension. "Let's head to the Hokage's office," he suggested, his tone light but firm. "We can discuss everything there in private."

Gaara, still not taking his eyes off Naruto, gave a curt nod. "Fine."

With that, the group moved toward the Hokage's office. Naruto's heart raced. He knew that once they entered that room, the truth would come out, and he wasn't sure how everyone would react—especially Gaara, who had been his closest ally during the darkest times of their lives.

As they walked, the Leaf Village's residents continued to murmur about the strange group, but Naruto kept his head down, focusing on the steps ahead. Soon, they would be in the Hokage's office, and everything would finally be brought to light.

Tsunade led the group into her office, closing the door behind them to ensure privacy. She gestured for everyone to take a seat, her demeanor shifting to one of seriousness.

"Mei, I know you've brought Naruto with you. We need to discuss everything that has happened regarding him," she said, glancing at the masked figure standing beside Mei.

Mei looked at Naruto and gave him a reassuring nod, indicating that the coast was clear. With a deep breath, Naruto reached up and removed his ANBU mask, revealing his familiar blonde hair and bright blue eyes.

Jiraiya's face broke into a warm smile as he recognized the young man who had once been his student. "There he is! I knew it was you, kid!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm spilling over.

Tsunade's eyes widened in surprise. "Naruto! I… I didn't realize it was you," she said, a mix of relief and nostalgia washing over her. "You've changed so much."

Naruto gave her a shy grin, feeling a wave of emotions. He had missed the village, the people, and especially the bonds he had forged here. However, the memories of his banishment still lingered in the back of his mind.

His gaze then shifted to Gaara, who stood silently, an intensity in his eyes. "Gaara!" Naruto called out, his voice filled with excitement. "You wanted to speak with me?"

Gaara stepped forward, his expression serious but not unfriendly. "Yes, Naruto. I'm now the Kazekage of the Sand Village," he said, his tone steady. "We have an alliance to deal with, and I wanted to discuss how we can work together to ensure both our villages thrive."

Naruto's eyes lit up with surprise and pride. "You're a Kage now? That's amazing, Gaara! I'm really happy for you!" He felt a surge of joy at his friend's achievement, knowing how far Gaara had come from being the lonely jinchuriki he once was.

"Thank you, Naruto," Gaara replied, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly.

Gaara then wanted to confirm his friends condition with a serious expression, his brow furrowed with concern. "I'm worried about you, Naruto," he said, his tone earnest. "Who banished you from the Leaf?"

Naruto took a deep breath, recalling the pain of his past. "It was Danzo and the council," he admitted, his voice steady but tinged with frustration. "They thought it was best for the village to get rid of me. But since I've been in the Mist, I've built a life there. I have friends and a sense of belonging now."

Hearing this, Gaara's expression softened. He had faced his own struggles as a jinchuriki and understood the importance of finding a place where one felt accepted. "I'm glad you've found a home," he said, a hint of relief in his voice. "It's important for you to feel that way."

Tsunade watched the exchange, feeling a mix of sadness and pride for Naruto. "I need to know, Naruto," she began, her voice firm yet compassionate. "Are you willing to come back to the Leaf? We can work to resolve the issues and rectify what happened."

Naruto shook his head, determination etched on his features. "I appreciate that, Tsunade, but I'm staying in the Mist. I've trained hard to become strong, and I don't want to abandon Haku, Zabuza, and the life I've created there."

Gaara nodded in understanding, his eyes reflecting his own experiences. "Sometimes, a person must choose where they belong," he said. "I respect your decision, Naruto. Just know that you have allies in both the Sand and the Mist."

Tsunade felt a pang of regret but recognized Naruto's resolve. "I understand your feelings, but remember that the Leaf will always be your home too. We can't change the past, but we can shape the future."

Jiraiya chimed in, "It's good to see you standing strong, Naruto. Just know that if you ever need anything, you can always come to us."

Naruto smiled at the support from his friends, feeling a sense of comfort wash over him. "Thank you, everyone. I'll make sure to keep in touch."

Tsunade leaned forward, her expression serious. "Mei, have you heard about an organization called Akatsuki?"

Mei nodded, her brows furrowing. "Yes, I've heard whispers. They're notorious for capturing jinchuriki, aren't they?"

"Exactly," Tsunade confirmed. "Naruto could be a target. Itachi and Kisame, two members of Akatsuki, once attacked him in the Leaf. They were after him because of the Nine-Tails."

Mei's eyes narrowed with concern. "If they target Naruto again, we need to be prepared. He's important to the alliance, and I won't let anything happen to him."

Gaara chimed in, "As fellow jinchuriki, we have to stand together. If they come after Naruto, we'll protect him, just as he would protect us."

Naruto felt a mix of pride and worry at their words. "I can handle myself, but I appreciate the support. I've trained hard, and I won't let them take me without a fight."

Tsunade placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We're not saying you can't handle it. We just want you to be aware of the potential danger. It's not just about you; it's about everyone connected to you."

Mei agreed, her voice resolute. "We need to strengthen our defenses and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity. If Akatsuki is targeting jinchuriki, we need to act swiftly."

Tsunade gave a look towards Mei then Gaara as she now felt at ease that she could be able to form an alliance between them. "So I'm guessing we can form an alliance, hopefully that's alright with you two?" She asked

Mei nodded, her expression firm. "I'm alright with an alliance. We'll continue to strengthen our village, and I'll ensure that we work closely together."

Gaara added, "Now that I know Naruto is safe, I will keep our alliance intact. If you ever need assistance, Mei, the Sand will help you as well."

Mei smiled at Gaara's words. "Thank you, Gaara. It's good to know we can count on each other."

Just then, Shizune entered the room, her expression serious. "Tsunade, the members of the council are waiting for you, including Danzo."

Tsunade let out a heavy sigh, rubbing her temples. "I knew this day would come. It's going to be a long argument."

Naruto frowned, feeling a sense of unease. "What are they going to say?"

Tsunade stood up, straightening her robes. "They'll likely want to discuss your banishment, Naruto. Danzo has always had a vendetta against you. He'll try to push for your return to the Leaf or at least to undermine our alliance."

Mei crossed her arms, looking determined. "If he tries to undermine Naruto's safety or our alliance, I won't stand for it."

Gaara nodded in agreement. "Neither will I. We have to protect Naruto and ensure he's treated fairly."

Tsunade glanced at Naruto, who seemed tense. "Remember, no matter what they say, you have allies now. We'll stand by you."

Naruto took a deep breath, feeling grateful for their support. He felt at ease knowing he was able to stay in the mist village however he didn't want to see the council members as he didn't want to remind himself of the same looks they gave him. Hopefully this meeting would be gone and over with quickly he thought.