The sun had just begun to rise, casting a soft golden glow over the gates of Konoha as Sakura, Hinata, Kiba, and Shino walked back into the village. They all looked worn out from their long escort mission to the Land of Waves. Kiba stretched his arms above his head with a groan, Akamaru trotting tiredly beside him.

"Finally back," Kiba muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "That mission took longer than I thought it would."

Sakura sighed, brushing a few strands of pink hair out of her face. "Yeah, but at least it's over. I just need a bath and some rest."

Hinata nodded quietly, clearly exhausted as well, while Shino remained silent, as usual, his posture relaxed but alert.

As they reached the gates, Kakashi turned to Kurenai. "I've got something to take care of," he said, his tone casual but focused. "I'll leave the debriefing to you."

Kurenai raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Alright. I'll meet you later."

Without another word, Kakashi disappeared in a swirl of leaves, leaving Kurenai to lead her team towards the Hokage's office. The group walked through the bustling streets of Konoha, each of them deep in their own thoughts, barely noticing the villagers passing by.

Once they arrived at the Hokage Tower, Kurenai knocked on the door to Tsunade's office. A moment later, Shizune opened the door and greeted them with a smile. "Come in, Kurenai-sensei. Lady Tsunade is waiting for your report."

They entered the office to find Tsunade sitting behind her desk, her hands clasped as she looked up at them. Her sharp eyes quickly scanned the group, taking in their tired appearances.

"Kurenai, Sakura, Hinata, Kiba, Shino—welcome back. I take it the escort mission went well?" Tsunade's voice was calm, though her gaze softened as she noted their exhaustion.

Kurenai stepped forward, bowing slightly before speaking. "Yes, Lady Tsunade. The mission was a success. We escorted the client to the Land of Waves without any issues. However, there were signs of increased rogue shinobi activity in the area. Nothing we couldn't handle, but it might be worth keeping an eye on."

Tsunade nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Rogue shinobi in the Land of Waves, huh? I'll have ANBU monitor the area just in case. Thank you for the report, Kurenai. You and your team did well. Get some rest—you've earned it."

The group visibly relaxed at her words. Sakura gave a grateful nod, and Kiba let out a small yawn, already thinking about heading home to rest.

As Sakura, Kiba, Shino, and Hinata stepped out of Tsunade's office, they spotted Neji, Lee, and Tenten walking toward them. Lee, always full of energy, was the first to shout out, his voice echoing down the hallway.

"Hey, everyone!" Lee called out, waving enthusiastically. "We heard a rumor that Naruto is back, but we haven't seen him anywhere. Have you seen him?"

Sakura and Hinata both froze in their tracks, wide-eyed. Sakura's heart skipped a beat, and she could feel excitement bubbling up within her. "Naruto… back?" she repeated in disbelief, her mind racing. She hadn't seen him since he'd left, and a flood of memories surged forward.

Hinata, standing just behind Sakura, felt her own heart pounding. She had always been worried about Naruto ever since he disappeared, constantly wondering where he was and if he was okay. The mere mention of his return filled her with a mixture of joy and relief. Her face flushed a soft pink as she stammered, "N-Naruto-kun… he's really back?"

Neji, more composed than Lee, glanced at his teammates with a slight nod. "I overheard Jiraiya and Lady Tsunade talking about Naruto being back, but no one seems to know where he's staying."

Sakura's mind raced, trying to piece together the situation. "We just got back from a mission, so we haven't heard anything," she explained, her excitement mounting. "But if Naruto's really back, I need to find him. I haven't seen him in so long…"

Kiba, who had been quiet, raised an eyebrow. "Naruto, huh? Figures he'd make a return when we're all out of the loop."

Shino, still as composed as ever, adjusted his glasses. "If the rumor is true, I'm sure Naruto's return is related to something important."

Lee grinned widely, his enthusiasm infectious. "We should all search for him! I bet Naruto has been training hard and getting even stronger! A true example of the power of youth!"

Tenten, while less animated than Lee, smiled and chimed in. "It would be great to see him again. I wonder how much he's grown since we last saw him."

Sakura exchanged a glance with Hinata, who seemed both nervous and hopeful. "Let's split up and try to find him," Sakura suggested. "If Naruto's really back, we need to make sure he knows we're here for him."

Hinata nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "Yes, let's."

With a plan in place, the group decided to spread out and search for any signs of Naruto, each of them eager to reunite with their friend who had been gone for so long. Their hearts were filled with anticipation, hoping to finally see the face of their long-lost comrade.

As the morning sunlight filtered through the window, Naruto and Haku woke up, still wrapped in the warmth of each other's company. After getting dressed and ready for the day, Naruto felt a sense of purpose. Today, he would go see Tsunade and collect his parents' belongings. It was still surreal to him—finding out about his lineage and the legacy of his parents, Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, and Kushina Uzumaki.

Haku smiled at Naruto as they left the hotel, her hand resting gently on his arm. "Are you ready, Naruto?" she asked softly.

Naruto nodded. "Yeah, I want to see what my parents left behind… It's kind of nerve-wracking, but also exciting."

As they stepped out into the street, they spotted another group leaving a nearby hotel. Naruto's eyes widened as he saw Gaara, along with Temari and Kankuro, exiting the building across the way. It seemed the Kazekage and his siblings were also getting ready to leave the village.

Gaara, always calm and composed, noticed Naruto immediately. His pale green eyes met Naruto's as he gave a slight nod. Temari and Kankuro also turned to look, both smiling at the sight of their friend.

"Naruto," Gaara greeted, his voice even but carrying a certain warmth. He stepped forward, his siblings close behind.

Naruto waved and grinned. "Gaara! Hey! Are you guys leaving already?"

Temari smiled. "Yeah, we're heading back to Suna. We have some business to take care of, but it's good to see you before we go."

Kankuro crossed his arms, smirking. "Looks like you're doing well for yourself, Naruto. Got your whole future ahead of you now."

Naruto rubbed the back of his head, still adjusting to everything that had happened over the past few days. "Yeah, things are changing fast. But it's good to see you guys."

Gaara glanced at Haku, recognizing the bond between the two of them. He gave Haku a respectful nod. "It seems you've found someone who's important to you."

Haku blushed slightly but smiled warmly. "Naruto's very important to me, yes."

Naruto, scratching the back of his head, felt a bit flustered but grinned. "Heh, yeah. I'm lucky to have her."

Gaara's expression softened. "I'm glad. You deserve to have someone by your side." He paused, then added, "Before we leave, I wanted to say… it was good to see you again, Naruto. The alliances between our villages are important, but so is the bond we share. If you ever need anything, the Sand will always be here to support you."

Naruto's eyes lit up with gratitude, his heart warmed by Gaara's words. "Thanks, Gaara. Same to you. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call."

Temari and Kankuro exchanged smiles before Kankuro spoke up. "Well, don't keep the Hokage waiting, Naruto. I'm sure she has a lot to give you today."

"Yeah, don't worry about us," Temari added. "We'll catch up the next time we see each other."

With that, Naruto, Haku, Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro exchanged farewells, and the Sand siblings continued on their way toward the village gates.

As Naruto and Haku walked through the streets of Konoha, hand in hand, they noticed a group of familiar faces approaching. Neji, Lee, Tenten, Kiba, Shino, Sakura, and Hinata were all gathered together, chatting amongst themselves, when they spotted Naruto and Haku.

The moment Sakura laid eyes on Naruto, her face lit up in surprise. "Naruto?! Is that really you?!"

Hinata's eyes widened, her heart racing as she saw Naruto again after so long. She couldn't speak, but her face flushed slightly at the sight of him. The others quickly followed suit, all eager to greet their long-lost friend.

Lee, ever the enthusiastic one, nearly sprinted over. "Naruto! It's been forever! Where have you been, my youthful rival?!"

Kiba, with Akamaru perched on his shoulder, gave a toothy grin. "Yeah, man! We haven't seen you in ages! What's going on? Where've you been?"

Naruto gave a glance at Haku, squeezing her hand gently as if silently communicating to her that he wanted her by his side. Haku understood the gesture, staying close to Naruto as the group surrounded them with excited energy. Naruto cleared his throat, ready to answer their flood of questions.

"Hey, guys," Naruto started, offering them all a warm smile. "It's good to see all of you. It's… been a while, hasn't it?" He chuckled awkwardly, scratching the back of his head.

Sakura stepped closer, her expression a mix of relief and curiosity. "Naruto, where have you been all this time? We were worried about you!"

Naruto took a deep breath, looking at Haku for a moment before turning back to his friends. "Well, a lot has happened. I've been in the Hidden Mist Village. A lot of things have changed since I left the Leaf. This here is Haku," he said, motioning to the girl beside him. "She's been with me, and… well, we've been through a lot together."

Neji raised an eyebrow, observing Naruto closely. "The Hidden Mist? Why would you—"

Before Neji could finish, Naruto interrupted, shaking his head. "It's complicated. I didn't leave by choice, but… I've found a home there. I'm here now because of some… unfinished business, and Tsunade asked me to come back."

Tenten, still surprised, spoke up. "So, are you staying in the Leaf again, or…?"

Naruto shook his head. "No, I'm just here for a short while. I've built a life in the Mist. That's where I belong now."

Hinata finally found her voice, her soft words cutting through the chatter. "We missed you, Naruto."

Naruto smiled at Hinata, giving her a nod. "I missed you guys too. A lot. But I have to admit… things are different now."

Kiba crossed his arms, looking between Naruto and Haku. "So… who exactly is she? How'd you two meet?"

Naruto exchanged a glance with Haku, who smiled softly. "Haku's someone really important to me," Naruto explained, a slight blush rising to his cheeks. "We met not too long after I left the Leaf, and… well, we've been through a lot together. She's… special."

Lee's eyes sparkled as he exclaimed, "Ah! The power of youth and love! I see you've found someone to share your journey with, Naruto!"

Sakura raised an eyebrow, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Is she… your girlfriend?"

Naruto blushed deeper, glancing at Haku before nodding. "Yeah… she is."

Haku smiled and squeezed Naruto's hand, standing by his side proudly. The group, though surprised, exchanged smiles and glances at the revelation.

Shino, quiet as ever, finally spoke up. "So, what's your plan while you're here?"

Naruto's face grew more serious as he replied, "I need to meet with Tsunade and collect something that belonged to my parents. After that… we'll see what happens."

Sakura's smile began to fade. She felt a slight pang of jealousy in her chest, seeing Naruto so close to Haku. It wasn't something she had expected, and now, seeing how much Naruto had grown and changed, it caught her off guard. Her mind was clouded with thoughts, and before she could stop herself, she let out a frustrated sigh.

Naruto noticed, to look at her. "Sakura, you okay?"

Sakura crossed her arms, trying to mask her feelings but failing to hide the upset expression on her face. "It's nothing… just… I didn't expect to see you like this after all this time. You've changed a lot."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, feeling a bit unsure about what was going on. "Uh, thanks, I guess?" He scratched the back of his head, sensing something was off. "I didn't mean to surprise you guys like that."

Sakura, avoiding his gaze, shifted the conversation. "Naruto, there's something you should know… something important."

The group grew silent as Naruto's expression became serious. "What is it?" he asked, sensing the weight in her tone. "What happened?"

Sakura clenched her fists, her face tightening with emotion. "It's Sasuke… he's gone."

Naruto's eyes widened. "Gone? What do you mean?"

Kiba sighed, scratching his head in frustration. "It's hard to explain, but… Sasuke left the village, Naruto. He went to seek out Orochimaru."

Naruto's face paled as the weight of the revelation hit him. "Orochimaru? Why would Sasuke…?"

Neji, standing nearby, crossed his arms. "Sasuke made his choice. He's after power. He believes Orochimaru can give him the strength he needs to defeat his brother, Itachi."

Naruto was left speechless. "Sasuke… went to Orochimaru for power? That doesn't make any sense! I thought we were… friends."

Sakura, her voice shaking, added, "We tried to stop him, Naruto. We tried everything. But he wouldn't listen. He's gone, and we don't know when or if he'll come back."

Naruto felt a knot forming in his stomach. Sasuke, one of his closest friends, leaving Konoha to join one of their greatest enemies? It felt like betrayal. He didn't understand how Sasuke could leave them all behind, especially after everything they had been through together.

"He's really gone, huh?" Naruto said softly, more to himself than anyone else.

Lee, who had been quiet until now, stepped forward, his expression somber. "Yes, Naruto. We've all felt the impact of Sasuke's decision. But we have to remain strong. You know how much Sasuke wants revenge against his brother. It has consumed him."

Naruto clenched his fists, feeling a swirl of emotions—anger, confusion, and sadness. He had come back to Konoha hoping to reconnect with his friends, and now he was learning that Sasuke had abandoned them all for power.

"I can't believe he'd do something like that," Naruto muttered, his mind racing with thoughts. "Sasuke's strong, but… to leave us? To leave the village? It doesn't make sense."

Sakura, her voice softer now, tried to reassure him. "Naruto, I know this is hard. It's been hard on all of us. But… we're trying our best to bring him back. Tsunade and Jiraiya are doing everything they can."

Naruto nodded, still processing the news. "I need to talk to them… I need to know why Sasuke did this. Maybe there's something I can do."

With that, Naruto and Haku bid farewell to the group, promising to catch up more later. As they walked away, Naruto's mind was consumed with thoughts of Sasuke, trying to piece together why his friend would turn his back on everything and everyone. He couldn't help but feel a mix of anger and guilt, wondering if there was something he could have done to stop it.

Naruto stormed into Tsunade's office, his frustration evident. Haku followed closely behind, staying silent but alert, sensing the tension in Naruto's every step. As soon as they entered, Naruto's voice echoed through the room.

"When did Sasuke leave the village? And why wasn't I told about this earlier?" Naruto demanded, his eyes burning with a mix of anger and concern. "I thought you were keeping me updated on everything important!"

Tsunade, who had been reviewing some paperwork, looked up at Naruto, understanding his feelings but also knowing this was a delicate matter. Jiraiya stood beside her, his expression more serious than usual.

"Naruto, calm down," Jiraiya said in a soothing tone. "We were going to tell you, but we didn't want to overwhelm you with more bad news, especially after everything you've been through. We didn't think it was fair to put that on your shoulders."

Naruto clenched his fists, feeling conflicted. "I understand that, but Sasuke is my friend. I deserve to know what happened to him. I can't believe he'd just leave like that…"

Tsunade sighed, putting down her pen. "Naruto, we're doing everything we can to bring Sasuke back, but it's complicated. He made his choice to leave and seek power elsewhere, and it's not something we could've predicted. I'm sorry you had to find out this way."

Naruto's frustration was still simmering. "What are you doing to find him? What's the plan? I need to know. I can help."

Tsunade hesitated, exchanging a glance with Jiraiya. She knew Naruto's determination, but she also understood the political complexities of the situation. "Naruto, I want you to understand something. As much as we value your help, you are now a shinobi of the Hidden Mist. Your status complicates things—your village has its own priorities, and you have your responsibilities there."

Naruto's expression fell, realizing the truth in her words. "So, what? Because I'm with the Mist, I can't do anything? Sasuke was my teammate, my friend. I still care about what happens to him."

Jiraiya placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, trying to comfort him. "Naruto, it's not about not wanting you to help. It's just that officially, you're not in a position to get involved in Konoha's internal matters. If you were still here, it'd be different, but things have changed."

Tsunade nodded. "And it's not that we're trying to exclude you, Naruto. But the Mist has its own missions, and we can't involve you in something that doesn't align with your duties there. We're keeping our alliance strong with Mei and the Mist, but there are boundaries we need to respect."

Naruto's anger turned into a mix of helplessness and frustration. "I just can't sit back in my village and do nothing! I just… I just want to help Sasuke. I can't sit around knowing he's out there, lost and in danger."

Haku, who had been quietly observing, gently touched Naruto's arm. "Naruto, we're in this together. I know you want to help, but maybe there's another way we can support Konoha in finding Sasuke without crossing those lines."

Tsunade offered a sympathetic smile. "Naruto, your heart is in the right place. But right now, we need to trust each other and work within the boundaries set. We won't stop until we bring Sasuke back. You have my word."

Naruto took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions swirling inside him. "I understand, but… if there's anything I can do, anything at all, you have to let me know. I won't abandon Sasuke, no matter what village I'm from."

Jiraiya gave Naruto an encouraging nod. "We know, Naruto. And that determination is exactly what makes you who you are. Just keep training, keep getting stronger, and when the time comes, we'll make sure you're not left out."

Naruto nodded reluctantly. "Alright. I'll hold you to that." He looked at Tsunade and Jiraiya with a renewed resolve. "I just hope we can bring him back before it's too late."

Tsunade smiled softly, seeing the fire in Naruto's eyes. "We will. And when the time is right, you'll be a part of it. Until then, focus on what you can do. Stay strong, Naruto."

Naruto, though still frustrated, felt a sense of reassurance. He knew that even if he couldn't directly be involved in the search for Sasuke, he wouldn't stop fighting for his friend. With Haku by his side, he left the office, determined to become stronger and find a way to help, no matter what.

Tsunade took a deep breath as she reached into her desk, pulling out two carefully wrapped scrolls. She placed them gently in front of Naruto, her expression soft yet serious. "Naruto, these are your parents' most valuable legacies—something that should've been yours from the beginning."

Naruto's eyes widened as he looked at the scrolls. One was marked with seals and symbols that glowed faintly, indicating the powerful jutsu it contained. Tsunade pointed to the first scroll. "This one contains your father's most famous technique, the Flying Raijin—the technique that earned him the name of the Yellow Flash."

Naruto's gaze shifted to the second scroll. It was marked with intricate Uzumaki clan symbols. "And this," Tsunade continued, "is your mother's sealing jutsu—the Uzumaki Sealing Scroll. It's a powerful and complex set of techniques known only to the Uzumaki clan. Only a blood relative can open it, and it can only be mastered by someone who truly understands the art of sealing."

Naruto carefully picked up the scrolls, feeling the weight of his parents' legacies in his hands. Tsunade's expression softened as she continued. "These scrolls can only be opened with your blood, Naruto. They were meant to be passed down to you and only you. They contain knowledge and power that no one else should ever have. Treasure them."

Naruto felt a lump in his throat as he held the scrolls close, realizing the significance of what Tsunade was entrusting him with. "Thank you, Tsunade… this means everything to me." His voice was filled with emotion, knowing that these scrolls were more than just powerful jutsu—they were a direct connection to his parents, a piece of his family that he had longed for his whole life.

Tsunade then reached into her desk once more and pulled out a small, framed photograph. She handed it to Naruto, and his breath caught in his throat. It was a picture of his parents—Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, standing proudly beside Kushina Uzumaki, her warm smile beaming with love.

Naruto's eyes welled up with tears as he gazed at the picture, finally seeing his parents together, looking happy and full of life. He traced his fingers over the glass, feeling a connection he had never felt before. "They look… so happy," Naruto said softly, his voice trembling. "I wish I could've met them."

Tsunade nodded, her own eyes misty as she watched Naruto. "They were proud, Naruto. They loved you more than anything in this world. And even though they're not here, everything they left behind is a part of you. You carry their legacy, their will, and their love."

Naruto wiped his eyes, trying to keep himself composed. "I promise, I'll make them proud. I'll learn these techniques, and I'll protect everyone—just like they would've wanted."

Jiraiya placed a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "You've already made them proud, Naruto. Keep moving forward. This is just the beginning."

Naruto nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. With the scrolls in his possession and the photo of his parents close to his heart, he knew that he was no longer alone. He had their guidance, their strength, and their love.

Jiraiya watched as Naruto carefully tucked the scrolls and photograph into his bag, his expression a mixture of determination and lingering uncertainty. Sensing Naruto's inner turmoil, Jiraiya placed a hand on his shoulder. "Naruto, I know a lot's been thrown at you all at once. But there's something you need to hear—about Sasuke."

Naruto turned his head, his blue eyes sharp with a mix of concern and confusion. "What about Sasuke? What's going on?"

Jiraiya's face turned serious as he explained, "Orochimaru wants Sasuke for his next vessel—his next body. He's been grooming him for years, and Sasuke fell into his trap thinking that he could gain power that way. But here's the thing: from what I've managed to uncover, Orochimaru's plans got delayed. He was too late to transfer his soul into Sasuke's body, so now he's stuck. He has to wait another three years before he can try again."

Naruto's expression shifted, a mix of relief and frustration crossing his features. "So Sasuke's safe for now? But he's still… with that snake?"

Jiraiya nodded, his gaze stern yet encouraging. "Yes, he's safe for now, but we can't take any chances. Orochimaru is cunning, and Sasuke's not going to come back just because we want him to. He's chosen his path, even if it's the wrong one. But here's where you come in, Naruto."

Jiraiya paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "If you're serious about getting stronger—strong enough to bring Sasuke back and to protect the people you care about—then I can help. We can train together. I have some techniques that I've been wanting to teach you, and this would be the perfect time for us to take a little trip. It'll be tough, but you'll come back stronger than you've ever been."

Naruto's mind raced. The idea of training with Jiraiya, learning new skills, and getting stronger was tempting. But he also thought about the life he'd built in the Mist, his responsibilities, and Haku. "I want to get stronger, Jiraiya-sensei. But I've got a lot to think about. The Mist Village is my home now, and I can't just leave it behind without making sure things are right."

Jiraiya nodded in understanding. "I get it, kid. You've got ties to the Mist, and you've got Haku, too. Take your time. Think it over. When you're ready to make a decision, just summon one of the frogs to me, and I'll come running. No pressure, okay?"

Naruto nodded, appreciating the patience Jiraiya was showing him. "Thanks, Ero-sennin. I'll think about it, I promise. And when I decide, I'll let you know."

Jiraiya smiled, ruffling Naruto's hair playfully. "That's all I ask. Just remember, no matter where you are or what you decide, you've got people who believe in you. You've got your parents' strength, Haku's support, and my training, if you want it. You're never alone, Naruto."

Naruto gave a small smile, feeling reassured by Jiraiya's words. "Yeah, I know. I just need some time to figure things out."

Naruto and Haku stood at the entrance of the Hokage's office, preparing to say their goodbyes. Tsunade gave Naruto a warm smile before pulling him into a tight hug. "I'm so glad to see you again, Naruto," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine affection. "You've grown so much."

Naruto hugged her back, feeling the comfort and warmth of her embrace. "Thanks, Granny Tsunade. I missed you, too."

As they pulled apart, Tsunade turned her gaze to Haku, her smile shifting into a playful smirk. "Make sure you take good care of him, Haku. This knucklehead can be a handful."

Naruto and Haku both blushed at the remark, their cheeks flushing a deep red. Haku squeezed Naruto's hand gently before replying, "Don't worry, Lady Tsunade. I'll take good care of my boyfriend."

Tsunade and Jiraiya's eyes widened in surprise, and then they burst into delighted laughter. Jiraiya clapped Naruto on the back, nearly knocking him forward. "Well, well, look at you, Naruto! You've got yourself a girlfriend, huh? And a beautiful one at that. I'm impressed."

Naruto scratched the back of his head sheepishly, looking away to hide his embarrassment. "Yeah, well… it just kind of happened."

Tsunade beamed at Haku and Naruto, genuinely happy for the both of them. "I'm glad you've found someone special, Naruto. Haku, you're exactly what he needs. You've got a good one here."

Haku nodded, smiling warmly. "Thank you, Lady Tsunade. Naruto means a lot to me."

Jiraiya chuckled, his eyes twinkling with pride. "You've come a long way, Naruto. I couldn't be happier for you. Just don't forget to stay focused on your training, too."

Naruto grinned, feeling a sense of belonging and support from his old mentors. "I won't, Ero-sennin. I've got a lot to learn, and I'm not giving up on anything—my training, my friends, or Haku."

Tsunade and Jiraiya exchanged a knowing look, recognizing the maturity and resolve in Naruto's voice. They knew he was ready to face whatever came next, and with Haku by his side, he was stronger than ever.

As Naruto and Haku turned to leave, Tsunade waved them off. "Take care, you two. And don't be strangers. Konoha will always have a place for you."

Naruto and Haku nodded in unison, feeling a sense of closure but also excitement for what lay ahead.

In the dimly lit chamber of Danzo's underground base, Danzo sat at a long table, flanked by his loyal Root ANBU. The room was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the faint flicker of torches casting shadows on the walls. Danzo's expression was grim, his lone visible eye narrowing as he addressed his subordinates.

"How could we have been so blind?" Danzo's voice was low and edged with irritation. "Naruto Uzumaki has been living in the Mist Village all this time, under our radar. And now, thanks to this alliance with the Mist, he's completely out of our reach. Our greatest asset—the Jinchuriki of the Nine Tails—slipped through our fingers because of your incompetence."

The Root ANBU stood at attention, their faces hidden behind masks, showing no outward reaction to Danzo's reprimand. Despite their stoic demeanor, they could feel the weight of their leader's displeasure.

Danzo continued, his voice cold and calculating. "The Mist Village's sudden rise in power makes no sense, especially with Mei Terumī as the Mizukage. Yagura, the previous Mizukage, was a Jinchuriki and a ruthless leader. For Mei to take over, something drastic must have occurred—something they're keeping from the rest of the world."

Danzo leaned forward, his tone growing more sinister. "I want answers. Find out everything you can about the Mist Village, about Mei Terumī, and how she managed to overthrow Yagura. I want to know what secrets she's hiding, especially concerning Naruto. If we understand their weaknesses, we can exploit them."

One of the ANBU stepped forward, his voice respectful yet firm. "We will begin the investigation immediately, Lord Danzo. We'll send spies to gather intel on the Mist's inner workings and keep close tabs on Naruto. If there's any way to regain control, we will find it."

Danzo nodded, though his expression remained stern. "Be discreet. The alliance between Konoha, the Mist, and the Sand complicates things. We cannot afford to be discovered. Focus on any signs of dissent within the Mist Village or weaknesses in Mei's leadership. And if there's even a hint that Naruto could be turned, report back to me at once."