(Chapter 29: Desert Girls and Date Nights)

It would be around the end of August before Team 7 eventually returned to Konoha to report their mission as completed, as those within Team 7 were more than happy to admit that they had had a blast while they were in the capital. Given that there was so much to do in the advanced capital city of the Fire Country that it just about blew Naruto's mind at all there was too see, and for Sasuke and Sakura the sights there were something to behold; that made them feel as though they were in another world entirely.

However, the trio knew full well that with their return back to the village; that there things were gonna be back to business as usual in terms of training with Kazushi and their own individual training methods.


(August 31st, 997 S.E, Konoha, Senju Park, 4:45 Pm)

It would be sometime after Team 7 got situated with a rousing round of who can do the most D-Ranks before the other, and were currently just vibing in their favorite hangout in Senju Park.

"Alright, you guys. I say that we've killed it again with our D-Rank run across the village." Naruto said proud of himself and his teammates for basically cleaning out D-ranks across the board

"Between your ability to get us from Point A to Point B at an insane rate. On top of our respective amounts of speed and physicality being beyond that of nearly anyone in our graduating class. Then it's a no-brainer that we've all but done nearly every D-Rank to be had in the village." Sasuke replied

"Hey, even if we're strong as shit. I'm just happy that we're doing so well…Plus thanks to Lord Ozai, I finally have enough to get my farm up and running!" Naruto said back with a wide smile across his face

"That does remind me…What exactly did you wind up talking with our Daimyo about? I know you mentioned something of the sort with Kazushi after you won against Azula." Sasuke inquired as Naruto's smile turned into a more devious one

"Oh…let's just say that when I had my talk with him. That while things for my farm are locked in. That I also talked to him about the prophecy business that Pervy-Sage is involved with." Naruto told the Uchiha

"So when I told him about how even after all this time that, he didn't really have anything planned once he got his plans for 'world peace' all squared away…Let's just say that our Daimyo didn't take it well, and plans to have a talk with my dad and Pervy-Sage soon." Naruto further spoke on the subject

"How mad was he, when you told him that their basically winging it after what…almost 20 years of just bullshitting?" Sakura questioned

"Much less that he was mad, and moreso furious that they were wasting resources on something that didn't have a solid logistical outcome…Because I'll tell guys you this much; he looked ready to scorch someone's face off when I told him that no one had so much as a lick of an idea on how this peace was gonna hold-up in the long-term. As everything's all sunshine and rainbows about a prophecy, until you get to the details on how everything is gonna stick once you get too it in the end…So expect an angry Lord Ozai to come to the village in the future." Naruto answered back

Suffice it to say that the Fire Daimyo was pissed to know that Jiraiya and his parents were winging it on a prophecy that not only affected his ninja village but his country and everything else around it overall; with not so much as a game plan on the aftermath of what would happen once world peace was achieved…A happy camper Ozai was not, and as such while he was able to keep his composure, it didn't take a psychic to see that Ozai was furious with everyone involved in the prophecy playing around with the future of his domain and considered it a spit in his face that they did so and didn't have a game plan besides training them to essentially hold the world hostage.

"At least we won't have to worry about his anger being pointed in our direction…Although, I do feel somewhat bad for Lord 4th, when he will have to answer to Lord Ozai in the near future." Sasuke spoke knowing that said meeting would be anything but pleasant for Minato

"I don't. My dad had over a decade with Pervy-Sage to come up with at least some kind of a game plan, once they had Toshiro and Mizore achieve 'world peace' like the prophecy says…So all things considered my pity well for him is bottomed out." Naruto responded in having no sympathies for his father once the Daimyo came knocking

"And how well do you think that the twin idiots are gonna take it? Since knowing those two I give it not even 5 minutes before they say something to get themselves put in chains for disrespecting him." Sakura questioned

"Probably not well, but then again if they know what's good for them. They'll shut up and take it, since it they don't and try anything on him. Then Lord Ozai can have them sent off to Blood Prison for treason, if they push their luck against him. Since with an ego like there's I don't doubt it; that they'll say something smart-mouthed to him; when he says they're a liability to the country." Naruto answered back knowing that the Daimyo's word was law regardless of your stature

"Knowing those two idiots, when they hear what the Daimyo has to say about them being ain't shit in the long-term. They won't last too long before he decides they're more trouble than their worth. After all, two jinchuuriki who have egos the size of mountains, and don't have the best control over the 9 tails's power...Yeah, I would not want to deal with that hot mess either if I were him." Sakura said knowing full well the potential implosion that could come out of that

"Speaking of things that are potentially more trouble than their worth…Are you certain that you can balance being a shinobi, your job at the Akimichi's, your dating Hanabi, and now traveling cross-country to spend time with one of the Kazekage's daughters? Even for you, Naruto; this is getting to be quite a lot to balance." Sasuke questioned in seeing his teammate starting to spread himself thin

"Pffftt, I can handle myself just fine, Sasuke. I've got super-speed, I can teleport, and I've got summons I can use to get me from point A to Point B in no time…So I'm pretty sure I should be fine as is." Naruto answered back with a good feeling that he had all his bases covered

"You say that now, Naruto. However, even you have your limitations, no matter how vast they may be." Sasuke remarked

"And I say that until I hit my limits, then I say that I will be just peachy…Besides, whose gonna stop me from seeing Gaara when I have the chance? Since my folks are too busy doing fuck-all, Pervy-Sage is busy with the twins and Kakashi is too busy either reading his smut or training them to care….Not to mention that Kazushi doesn't really give a shit if do it or not. So I say that I'll be just fine." Naruto replied unconcerned about being found out

"By the way, Sakura. No one's caught on to me being with Hanabi yet, right?" Naruto asked the pink-haired assassin

"As far as I know, nope. Your all good." Sakura told her 'brother' about his being in the clear

"Great, great…The last thing I need is one of those two messing things up for me." Naruto replied glad that nothing had interfered with his dates so far

"By the way, when is your next date night with her?" Sakura questioned

"This Sunday." Was Naruto's answer

"Awesome, I'll be on guard to make sure that nothing gets in the way." Sakura told her 'brother'

"Thanks, a ton, Sakura; you really are a lifesaver when it comes to my personal life...I don't know what I'd do without you." Naruto replied thankful for Sakura's being his wingwoman

"No sweat, Naruto. Someone's gonna have to look out for you…By the way, Sasuke, you got anything planned for the weekend?" Sakura said back before her attention turned to the Uchiha

"Other than either babysitting my nephew, or training with Lyoto-sensei to better perfect my 3-Swords-Style." Sasuke informed Sakura

"And how's that working out so far?" Sakura questioned

"If all goes accordingly, I should have it properly battle-ready within the following week or two at the absolute worst." Sasuke informed the pink-haired bruiser

"So Naruto's going on date nights with Hinata's kickass older sister, and your about to have yourself a badass sword style…Man, you guys are on top of it!" Sakura said with a wide grin on her face

"Hey, we have to be when we have the world's strongest menace on our team. Because there's no way that Sasuke and I are gonna get caught lacking behind you." Naruto replied knowing he and Sasuke were too stubborn to not continue to grow stronger

"Fair…Also, if anyone wants to come with, I've got another job coming up soon. Since with Iwa in shambles, were getting in orders to take out some of their guys." Sakura told her friends

"I would not mind joining you for another endeavor. After all, those jobs of yours have proved incredibly useful to further test out my skills as a swordsman." Sasuke remarked at the valuable experience Sasuke had gained on Sakura's assassination jobs

Given that since the one in Tanzaku, Sasuke and Sakura had gone on a handful of assassination jobs together that had allowed both to sharpen and improve their skills in their respective fields as shinobi, which when on a team with someone such as Naruto who had pure power to carry him through was greatly appreciated.

"Well, good luck to you guys when you do. Since I'm probably gonna go hunt down another one of those plates once y'all head out…I gotta keep amping myself up to make sure I don't get caught lacking when Pervy-Sage tries something." Naruto spoke in already having his eyes set on either the Spooky Plate or the Splash Plate as it were

"Can't say I blame you for going after more of those suckers. Because I doubt he's just gonna keep playing nice for too much longer with this prophecy business." Sakura said knowing that Naruto would need all the power he could against Jiraiya's machinations for the new prophecy

"Thanks…Since even with all the power I do have, it still feels like I don't have enough on me." Naruto replied knowing that against whatever may come that he'd need more power to do as he wanted

"The only thing I can say with your search for these plates, Naruto. Is good luck and godspeed." Sasuke said to the superhuman in question

"Again, I appreciate it my man…Anyways, how about we get back to the village for some training? We have a long week ahead and Kazushi's already planning on throwing Predaplants at us." Naruto spoke knowing they needed to be on their A-game once Kazushi busted 'Those' out

"Oh joy/This is oughtta be fun." Were Sakura and Sasuke's replies before the trio soon headed out from Senju Park


(3 days later, September 3rd, 997 S.E, Akimichi BBQ, 7:05 Pm)

It was soon a rather peaceful September evening as Naruto was once more out with Hanabi on a dinner date, this time at the Akimichi's who were more than happy to make sure that everything went well.

"So on top of having eliminated an assassin with your teammates, you had also defeated Princess Azula in an exhibition match as well?" Hanabi asked Naruto who was in the midst of eating his steak

"Yup! And let me tell you this right now about her, she is one tough cookie…Because I'll say this much about her, she had me on the ropes for a hot minute." Naruto answered back in full admission of Azula's combat prowess

'Seriously I don't know what the hell she was on, but man was she relentless.' Naruto noted to himself over Azula's seemingly unending tenacity

"Well, I will give you credit where it is due. That you are certainly an impressive man to hold your own against the Daimyo's daughter." Hanabi replied as she ate more of her fried shrimp

"Hey, she gave me the what for and everything. So believe me when I say that it was one helluva an exhibition…honestly Hanabi it was one of those things you had to be there for." Naruto told the eldest of the Hyuga sisters

"Then perhaps the next time another event like that happens, I will make sure to be in attendance…After all, it would be a shame if I wasn't there to witness the full capabilities of my partner." Hanabi said in making a mental note to do so the 1st chance she'd get

"Trust me when I say that when you see me in action, your gonna want to grab your popcorn... I'm a whole heck of a lot more than what I showed Azula, and I put that on all the weed that I smoke with Kazushi.." Naruto said back catching the pale-eyed jonin's attention

"Really?...So what your saying is, that you've learned a few new tricks since our last encounter?" Hanabi queried as Naruto nodded

"Yup, I've got all sorts of new things I can do now!...I've even got a few new combo moves I've been working on." Naruto answered back with pride at some of what he was able to make happen with all the differing techniques at his disposal

"If that is so, then the next time we are able to have a sparring match. I would like to see some of your combo moves in full view." Hanabi said to the superhuman blonde

"I'm fine with showing off if you think you can handle it. But if you get knocked out, then don't say I didn't warn you." Naruto said knowing how lethal his attacks were when he decided to do them in tandem

"While I understand, given your talents…I feel that you also should remember that barring my father. That I am the strongest Hyuga in our clan. Regardless of Side or Main Branches, my prowess as one of the most powerful of our clansmen is nothing short of utter fact." Hanabi replied as she continued to eat her shrimp while a small yet boastful smile crossed her face

"If I'm gonna level with you, Hanabi. From the little I've seen out of you, I'm pretty sure you could beat your dad up if you really wanted to." Naruto said to the elder Hyuga sister

'Plus, if her Aura is anything to go by. Then she's definitely got her old man beat and then some. How she hasn't put him out of commission already, I'll never know.' Naruto remarked to himself at Hanabi's overall aura signature being double if not triple Hiashi's own

"While I appreciate the compliment, Naruto, and I truly do. I feel that I am not quite ready to fight my father quite yet." Hanabi said
"Really? Why not? I mean, the guy sidelined you for Hinata of people…And she's pretty much a walking meat shield with Byakugan…So why not, say fuck it and go for what's yours and challenge your dad to a fight to get what you deserve?" Naruto questioned as to why Hanabi didn't go through fighting Hiashi for her birthright already

"...Between whatever hidden ace you got up your sleeve, your kickass version of the Gentle Fist, plus whatever other stuff you have. You could totally dominate in a fight against him." Naruto added knowing full well that Hanabi had more than plenty to take down Hiashi in a straight up taijutsu match

"Again, I appreciate the praise for my abilities. However, it is not as simple as challenging him to a duel for what is rightfully mine…Even though I would love it too be as such." Hanabi said as the two continued to eat their meal

"Alright, then break it down for me then…Sorry if I'm not all up to date on clan matters…Mom and Dad never really gave me that bit of education and stuff." Naruto said back in being illiterate when it came to things such as politics and bureaucracy with clans

"You're quite fine, Naruto…However, to put this as simply as possible. Given that I'd rather not go into all the minutia of it on our date together…The reason as to why I can't simply challenge him for it, is due to the fact that I do not have substantial evidence to challenge him for it." Hanabi replied

"I thought that Hinata being a good-for-nothing schmuck would've been evidence enough. Especially, since even when you HAVE to train her she still isn't improving." Naruto said back knowing that Hinata was pretty sorry as far as most Gentle Fist practitioners went

"While that would be enough normally to do so. My father would use the fact that now that she is a genin, in conjunction with her being your brother's girlfriend. That she is in a position where she can benefit the clan better than I. On top of the fact that she is being trained as a shinobi, and as such has the resources needed to become an adequate clan heir." Hanabi said to Naruto

"First off, they do know that she's being trained by the village drunk right?...I'd rather take a crossbow bolt to the nuts than ever have her as my sensei. Because I'll be surprised if she can stay sober enough to teach them anything useful." Naruto replied in disbelief that Hiashi's best defenses were Toshiro and Kurenai of all people

"Secondly, do they not know the walking red flag that's brother? The man is a toxic piece of garbage, who is either gonna fuck her until she's used up, use her as arm candy until the next hot piece of ass comes along. Or if they ever get into an argument, then that monster is gonna throw a tantrum and beat her black and blue, until she does whatever he wants…And take it from experience I've been on the receiving end more than enough times to know." Naruto said in having more than enough experience with his temperamental triplet than he'd love to have

"Unfortunately, those two factors are more than enough for my father to cling to having Hinata as our clans' future…Despite the majority knowing that she will lead us to ruin…There is unfortunately not enough compiled evidence to help counter my father's bullheaded idiocy to challenge him quite yet." Hanabi replied knowing she couldn't act without compiling a solid case to act against Hiashi

The elder of the Hyuga sisters would've loved nothing more than to surge forward and challenge her father for her birthright as the rightful heir and future leader of the clan, yet without enough compiled evidence to do so and make it official. Then her plans for doing so would be dashed and would give her father future leverage to deny her; her future attempts to contest Hinata's place as clan heir…something that she couldn't afford to do, as such had to stay her hand at challenging her father for the given moment.

"Well, if there's anything that I can do to help you out. Then let me know, since helping make sure you get what's yours is the least I can do…I mean you took a chance on going out with me, so helping in any way I can with your birthright would be the best way I can pay your kindness forward." Naruto said to Hanabi in wanting to make sure that he could repay Hanabi's kindness in any way he could

"While that is very sweet of you, Naruto. I should be fine for the time being…You already have enough to worry about as is, and I wouldn't want to burden you any further with my family issues." Hanabi replied

"Are you sure, Hanabi? Because all I gotta do is call in a solid with Sakura and I can have her people start going around the block, to get dirt on Hinata." Naruto asked back ready to call in a solid or two to make things happen

"...Perhaps at a later date, but for now. I'd rather hold off on calling in favors with the Kure Clan. Given that they do not do things for free." Hanabi answered back knowing that the Kure's weren't ones to do favors without something being asked in return

"That being said, I would rather we shift topics over to something that won't ruin our night…Such as how things have gone with your sensei." Hanabi spoke in not really up for talks about her sister or father

"Oh that, well we're finally getting ready to go up against her Predaplants, and I'm super excited about it!" Naruto said back excited to finally be able to go up against one of Kazushi's 'summons'

"Really, and Kazushi thinks that you and your teammates are capable enough to handle them?" Hanabi asked while knowing full well the threat of Kazushi's Predaplants

"Yup, as it turns out. We're just that good!" Naruto answered back

"In the meantime, while our dessert comes around. You can tell me more of how far you and your teammates have come?" Hanabi requested

"Oh trust me, there's a whole helluva lot we can do together...Just like with me, you haven't seen any of what we're capable of when we get shit going." Naruto answered back

From there he told her of how he'd learned some techniques that put him on more then enough of a even keel with his twin siblings to where he put most jonin to shame, Sakura's coming closer towards mastering the Water Kata of the Niko Style, and Sasuke's becoming a proficient enough swordsman that he'd blow away nearly everyone in the village. Which had Hanabi more and more interested to see how this powerhouse of a genin would fare once the Chunin Exams came about; given that other than Kakashi's genin team…there wasn't much in the way of competition against them.

All the while Naruto was fascinated to hear more stories of Hanabi and Mizuki-sensei's misadventures from when they were on the same genin team together, to some of their missions together as fellow Chunin. This had enlightened Naruto to the fact that from what she had told him, Mizuki used to be as much of a jackass as he currently was…granted one that had an enormous amount of physical strength to where he was regarded as a living oni, but nonetheless, was someone who Hanabi was happy to have as one of her best friends in the world.

Yet it wouldn't be much longer before the two left the restaurant in question, and the two of them eventually departing; although much to Naruto's embarrassment was Choza Akimichi giving him the thumbs up on his date with Hanabi, and wishing him good luck. That being said and Naruto's face turned redder than a beet, as he and Hanabi walked back to the Hyuga compound to eventually bid each other farewell; although Naruto in still getting used going on dates with pretty women was still a red-faced mess of a man.

"...Man that went a lot better than what I expected. Either my personal life is really improving, or I'm the luckiest son of a bitch in the whole village." Naruto said before he used his Mind Radio to contact Sakura from afar

'Hey, Sakura. Everything go alright while I was out with Hanabi?' Naruto questioned

'Yeah, you are in the clear Naruto. Neither the Toad Fucker, your folks, or the twin idiots. Found you or Hanabi having a good time, I made double sure of it.' Sakura answered back through the telepathic link

'Great, that's good to know…Anything else happen while I was out and about, with her?' Naruto asked his pink-haired bruiser of a 'sister'

'Well, while you were gone…a hawk made of sandstone came by and dropped off a message in your room.' Sakura replied through the Mind Radio

'That must've been Gaara!...Did you read the message to see what it said?' Naruto surmised knowing the only reason for why a stone hawk would be there

'Yeah, it said that she wanted you to meet up with her in about 3 days time…Something about, things came up at the last minute, so she had to postpone it from tomorrow..' Sakura told the superhuman

'...That doesn't sound too bad of a travel from here to the desert. Plus I can make it there in no time with one of my summons.' Naruto said back knowing just the one to use to meet up with Gaara

'Whatever it is your gonna use to get there, then good luck.' Sakura said to Naruto

'Don't worry, I'll be just dandy.' Naruto replied with a grin on his still-reddened face

'If you say so…anyways I'm gonna head home…See you in a few.' Sakura said before she left for home

"Well, time to get a move on…I've got a desert friend to meet with." Naruto spoke before using his super speed to dash off and away in the cover of night


(3 days later, 8:44 Pm, September 6th, 997 S.E, 14 Miles outside of Sunagakure)

It was nearly a quarter till 9 at night as Naruto was riding through the deserts of Wind Country to find Gaara on the back of Raikou, who thanks to the legendary beast of lightning's immense speed and Naruto's Aura tracking ability was able to find the redhead floating on a sand-cloud waiting for him.

"Hey, Gaara! How are you doing?!" Naruto called out to the jinchuuriki of Shukaku

"I am doing…rather well. Things have been arduous more or less since our last encounter, but otherwise, things have been well." Gaara said as she floated down to meet Naruto who sat atop Raikou's back

"Do you wanna talk about it? I brought snacks along with me if that helps." Naruto said as he patted his satchel full of scrolls containing various snacks

"Perhaps, in time…This has been a recent development that has been a tough one. Especially for one of my friends, who has taken this rather hard as well." Gaara replied as she soon was face to face with Naruto and Raikou

"Also, what is that you are riding on?" Gaara inquired

"Oh…this is one of my summons. Their name is Raikou, Raikou this is Gaara." Naruto answered back as he introduced the Legendary Beast of Lightning

"It is a pleasure to meet you. Naruto has told me quite a lot about you, all of which might I add was strikingly positive." Was Raikou's reply which caused a brief scarlet blush to run across Gaara's face at those words

"And you as well, Raikou…Thank you for transporting Naruto here, it is very appreciated." Gaara said back to the Legendary Beast

"As the fastest amongst my brothers. I take great pride in making sure that he gets to his location as swiftly as possible. I would be rather remiss if I did not do so in a timely manner." Raikou said as they bent down to let Naruto get off his back

"...I'll call on you again, for when I need to travel somewhere quick as can be...Since you really are a time-saver and a half, by the way." Naruto spoke to Raikou

"I will heed your call at any given time, all you need to do is summon forth lightning, and I will carry you to your destination swifter than the thunder of the gods." Raikou replied to Naruto in a thundering baritone

"Gotcha, anyways my guy. You are free to leave, and tell Entei I said hi." Naruto said back as Raikou nodded with a low rumbling growl

"I will, and know that out of those that we have met in our many millennia of existence. That you have proven to be the most interesting…We look forwards to what more you can accomplish with our fathers' strength, young one." Raikou said before turning on heel to dash off before they turned into a bolt of golden lightning that streaked into the starry night

'Man, my summons are awesome!...Fuck a giant toad, I'll stay with summoning kickass Pokemon.' Naruto remarked to himself as he watched Raikou disappear into the night above

"Anyways, let's get to hanging with each other." Naruto said whilst Gaara rubbed at her bloodshot eyes

"Indeed…just give me a few moments. I do need to create a place for us to chat and spend time together in." Gaara said back as they raised their hands whilst the sands before them soon rumbled and shifted

Soon enough Naruto was witness to Gaara having created a small fortress made of sandstone and highly compressed sand, which had Naruto impressed that despite being worn down from a lack of sleep; she was able to make something highly detailed as a miniature castle; that was complete with ramparts and watchtowers full of crossbow-wielding golems. The two then walked inside to see that the interior was less intricate yet nonetheless well-detailed as furniture, floors, walls and ceilings were made of quartz and sandstone that gave the area a multicolored and slightly psychedelic feel to it, as Gaara directed them to a roundtable to sit at.

Once they sat down Naruto unsealed the scrolls full of snacks and divided them up between himself and the redhead before him, who once more felt her heart warm at being shown kindness that was rare to come by given her circumstances.

"Thank you again for coming to visit with me…I apologize for having not contacted you sooner, but it has been quite a lot to deal with since we last met." Gaara said as she ate out of a bag of pretzels

"I'm sorry about that, what exactly is going on that's got you all down in the dumps?" Naruto asked whilst munching on some cookies

"My father decided to send out one the rare few people that I care for out to a diplomacy mission in the Hidden Mist…Apparently, he wants an alliance with the current Mizukage of all people. Even though he is a complete madman." Gaara told the superhuman blonde

"Really? Why would he do that? He does know that guy is a bloodline-hating lunatic, right?" Naruto questioned as to why anyone would deal with someone like that

"To put it simply, it is out of desperation. Given that we were the weakest of the 5 Great Hidden Villages before Iwa suffered a cataclysmic earthquake. Even still with a power vacuum at hand, he is quick to take every opportunity to make sure we do not fall into weakness ever again. Hence the alliance with Yagura as it stands." Gaara answered back

"However, this was a ploy to not only officially cement an alliance between both parties. But also use her death as a morale boost the village, and make her a scapegoat for my fathers' propaganda." Gaara further spoke whilst Naruto ate more cookies as he listened on in rapt attention

"...So he had her killed then?" Naruto guessed as the redhead before him nodded yes

"Correct…My father and Yagura came up with the plan of making it seem as though she was ambushed by Kumogakure shinobi. And as such after she began her departure she was ambushed by Anbu from both ends…from there I am sure you can put the rest together." Gaara said as her expression took on a more dour look too it

"My condolences, I didn't know." Were the only words that Naruto could say

"You are quite, fine; but thank you nonetheless…Granted I have had a few weeks to grieve over the news of this…yet it does not make the pain any lesser, unfortunately. Especially, when in concerns to one of my friends who is taking it the hardest" Gaara said back before taking a deep exhale in remembering that Mrs. Pakura was now deceased

"But at the very least…I have the memories of whom she once was within my heart." Gaara added with a somber smile at the eternal memories of happiness she'd always have within concerning the Scorch Release mistress

"Well, I…I hope that things do get better in the meantime. Again, I'm sorry that a friend of yours got caught up in your dads' nonsense." Naruto said offering a comforting hand on the desert woman's shoulders

"Thank you, but to be fair. I am quite used to it at this point, it isn't the first time I have had a loved one taken from me, because of my father…And I'm certain it won't be the last." Gaara said

"However, other than the loss of one of my few dear loved ones in the village…How have things gone for you, Naruto?" Gaara questioned in wanting to shift subjects away

"Oh, I've been training with my powers some more, hanging out with my teammates and my friend Choji; all of whom are really great people you should meet sometime. Oh, Oh and I've been seeing someone who's pretty cool, her name is Hanabi by the way…So overall everything's been going great for me!" Naruto answered back in good cheer of how things had gone for him as of recent months

"That is rather…wonderful to hear…I am happy for you…" Gaara said as she winced as though stung by a massive wasp

"Is everything alright with you?..You don't look like your doing so hot." Naruto asked in concern

"For the most part yes…although mother has been restless lately…Given that she has not had blood in months, she has made the act of trying to sleep, much more difficult…As such, I am given migraines for my lack of giving her what she craves." Gaara answered back hating her ever-growing headaches when she hadn't fed Shukaku blood in awhile

"Hmmm, well maybe I can shut her up…If you'd let me try something?" Naruto requested

"If you are able to do so, then you are free to try...It cannot be much worse than what I suffer through with Mother." Gaara said back as Naruto rose from his seat as he finished his bag of cookies

From there Naruto went over and placed his hands over either of Gaara's temples before taking a deep breath and channeling the power of the Mind Plate for what he was about to do, and while it wasn't at the full power he used when he partially summoned Giratina to devour Raiga and drag him into the Distortion World. It was still a rather sizable amount to say the very least given that the world around them began distort and misshape as though they were in a funhouse mirror, while the sands around them began to spiral upwards into tendrils of sand that warbled and shifted into miscellaneous geometric shapes.

All before Naruto after building up said power for nearly a minute proceeded to do as planned and used the psionic might he'd built up to basically put Shukaku in timeout as it were, using the psionic energies at his disposal to make it so that while Gaara's sand manipulation could still be in effect. That Shukaku's influence overall would be taking a backseat as he did all that he could to essentially put the tailed beasts' psyche into psychic restraints for the time being, all the while Gaara who was expressing discomfort at this in feeling as though her skull was on fire was able to resist yelping out in pain from the process.

For what felt like a solid hour took more or less the span of 2 minutes for the superhuman who made sure to get the process as ironclad as possible, before Naruto ceased the effort albeit doing the effort did give him a bloody nose and a handful of popped blood vessels for his troubles.

"There you go, your mom or whatever you wanna call her shouldn't bother you for a good long while...So now you can get a few winks of sleep for a change, instead of her bothering you for blood all the time." Naruto said as he let go of Gaara's head

"Did you really get her to be quiet?" Gaara asked

"Yup! But its not gonna be a permanent fix all things considered, since its for one my first time putting the chokehold on a tailed beast. Secondly, I didn't want to go all out and accidentally fry your brain…This is my first time using my mind powers to do something like this, and the last thing I wanna do is make you a vegetable." Naruto answered back

"But other than that you should be good to use your stuff as normal…Granted its gonna be a couple of months before your mom or whatever pops back up again. So just be aware of that for when she does." Naruto said knowing that while what he did would hold up for 4 maybe 6 months at the max by his estimation that it wasn't foolproof

"T-This means I can sleep?!" Gaara asked almost tearing up at the prospect of having sleep once more

"Mmmhmmm. At least for a little bit, since again this is a band-aid on your whole problem. So just a heads-up in case things start to get nuts." Naruto answered back

"I-I-I don't know what to say, except thank you...Thank you for this wonderful gift, Naruto...Finally, I can truly sleep for the first time in years!" Gaara said stunned at the miracle if temporary that was performed on them

"Hey, it's not a problem at all. Besides, were friends now, and its the least I can do for you…Especially, since you seem like you've had the worlds' largest rough patch for a life. So its about time someone gives you a break." Naruto replied figuring that the youngest of the Kazakage's children deserved a kindness like this for what she's no doubt experienced in her life

"You have my utmost gratitude for this…A-And if it isn't too much trouble, may I give you something to express my thanks?" Gaara requested

"Sure…go for it., Gaara." Naruto said as Gaara nodded and willed the sands to life to shape and mould into a solid form

"...Just a few more moments, as I need to get the features for this to look perfect. It would be horrible if this didn't turn out as such." Gaara spoke as small gusts of wind whipped about as she was concentrated on her gift to the superhuman

"Hey, its not a problem at all. I'm just happy to help you out is all." Naruto replied as a few more minutes were spent as Gaara continued to shape and sculpt the sands into what she desired

"...And there we are…my thanks to you for having helped me this night…I know it isn't much, but it is the very least I could do for you." Gaara said back as in her hands was a 10-inch tall nearly lifelike sandstone and quartz statue of Naruto

"Holy crap this looks amazing! Thanks a lot Gaara, I love it!" Naruto said in amazement of the statue

"I am very glad that you like it, Naruto. This is the very least I can do for the peace of mind you have give me." Gaara said back with a rare smile on her face

"Of course I do…this is going on my shelf the first chance I get back home!" Naruto told her as she had the statue float over to Naruto on a small sand cloud

"...So since you have a clear head for awhile, and I've got a kickass gift from my new friend…Do you wanna do some stargazing for a hot minute or two? I mean it probably sounds nice now that you don't have a madwoman yapping away at your ear." Naruto asked of the redhead in question

"That sounds lovely…It has actually been quite some time since I could enjoy something so nice, without mothers' voice ringing in my ears." Was Gaara's simple reply as her smile widened at finally being able to do mundane things such as stargazing without interruption

"Awesome…But how are we gonna do that with a roof in the way?" Naruto wondered

"Don't worry about that…Leave that to me." Gaara answered back in feeling a good deal more energetic without the ramblings of Shukaku in their ear

From there Gaara stamped her foot onto the ground before gesturing at the roof and making a tearing motion with both her hands…which had the desired effect of the roof above splitting open as though it were the maw of some great beast, before the redhead in question then summoned a sand cloud large enough for both of them to sit upon..The superhuman in question was quick to grab their snacks before he hopped onto said sand cloud, and the duo soon floated upwards into the sky to gain a better vantage point for their stargazing.

There after the two spent a few hours just looking at the stars and eating the snacks that Naruto had brought along for his visit, and while few words were exchanged between them as they looked at constellations, shooting stars and the occasional comet passing by. The feeling of joy was nonetheless present between the two as the redheaded jinchuuriki of Shukaku looked up at the starry night with hope in her eyes, for the first time in ages since her dreaded existence in Sunagakure.

All the while as the seemingly endless hours spent with the inheirtor of Arceus's will made an additional sense of happiness swell within her, given that while it would be short-lived she could enjoy peace and quiet within her own mind for the time being…Meanwhile, Naruto was happy that he was able to have helped Gaara in her time of need by providing a short-lived but nonetheless promising solution to an ailment that had plagued her since birth, and in seeing the serene yet joyful look on her face made something in his chest burn with an excitable energy that was borderline hard to contain.

However, as all things had to soon come to an end, Naruto as he checked his watch and saw that it was nearly 2 in the morning had to bid Gaara farewell as he went to return to Konoha before anyone was any the wiser to his disappearance..The redhead in question nodding in understanding bid Naruto farewell before he gave her a giant bear-hug, and leaped from her sand-cloud and in the very next moment he touched the ground, the sound of a sonic boom was heard as he started to run at supersonic speeds.

'Thank you, Naruto Uzumaki…I will remember this wondrous kindness in the future.' Gaara said to themselves as they watched Naruto run off into the desert night with a small smile on their face

"Now then, I believe that it is time to experience slumber for a change...I can't wait to have my first actual dream in years!" Gaara said as she forced her small fortress to return to the sands below before heading home to sleep for the 1st time in ages


(5 days later, Otogakure, September 11th, 997 S.E, 3:40 Pm)

Meanwhile, as days dredged forward in the ever-chilling Autumn, Orochimaru would call Kimimaro and Isane to their office for a rather important mission.

"How may we be of service to you today, Lord Orochimaru?" Kimimaro questioned

"As it stands not only have we made progress in finalizing the coordinates for the tablet located in the Mountains' Graveyard. We have also located another one of them as well…and its location in all fairness makes more sense than what it should've." Orochimaru answered back kicking themselves for not having realized where said plate was beforehand

"That's awesome news! Where's this other tablet at?" Isane asked where the plate she was to seek out was

"The other tablet in question is located within Hoshigakure. Where they have been using it as a means to utilize the power of their Star Chakra." Orochimaru answered back
"Your assignment, Isane. Is to take the tablet by force if you have to, but ideally I would appreciate it if you could infiltrate the area in question." Orochimaru further spoke

"And what am I to do if I am unable to do it quietly?" Isane asked the Serpent Sannin

"Then you are to eliminate all opposition that stands in your way…In fact, I will allow you the use of some of our most recent projects to aid in the elimination of whoever stands in your way." Orochimaru told the Lava Release user

"Understood, Lord Orochimaru. I will do my absolute best to get it done." Isane swore to the Serpent Sannin

"See to it that you do. The more that we have of these tablets, the more we will be able to accomplish regarding our goals for the future." Orochimaru said before shifting their golden gaze to Kimimaro

"As for you, Kimimaro. You will be facing quite the opposition where you are headed." Orochimaru informed the Kaguya before him

"If you do not mind my asking, my lord… What exactly will I be facing on my path to the tablet?" Kimimaro questioned not knowing of what awaited him

"As of late, I had used one of my summons from the Rinnegan to do more reconnaissance on the area in question. Given that, I did not want to send you or anyone else in blindly into enemy territory…What I found was concerning to say the least." Orochimaru spoke

"As it stands, the tablet's energies have caused those that have perished within the area to resurrect as…zombies for a lack of a better term." Orochimaru further spoke

"Zombies?!" Kimimaro and Isane both spoke in confused surprise

"Yes, zombies…As it seems as though it has animated the corpses as guards to prevent any who dare take it…Barring those that get close enough to its proximity, in facing the ever-growing hordes…Face the true guardian that has been created, and suffice to say that the guardian in question will be the most challenging threat to face. Given that it will be directly powered by the tablet itself, and as such have a wealth of abilities at its disposal." Orochimaru replied regarding what would await the Kaguya in his path to obtain the Spooky Plate

"How dangerous is this guardian of the tablet exactly?" Kimimaro questioned

"I cannot say for certain how strong it may be. However, I would advise you to be on guard for whatever it may use against you. For this is no doubt a powerful entity, and as such I must advise you to act with extreme caution…As such, if you must use your Curse Mark then do to your hearts content, Kimimaro. I want nothing left to chance." Orochimaru advised to Kimimaro

"I understand perfectly and clearly…You have my word that I will do my best to acquire the tablet." Kimimaro swore to the Serpent Sannin

"That is good to hear…Now then, you two are to depart at your earliest convenience. I wish you two the best of luck in your endeavors." Orochimaru said to the members of the Sound 5 who nodded before leaving their office

'Soon I will have the power of 2 additional tablets at my disposal…Hmmm, it looks like things are going my way for once.' Orochimaru remarked to themselves over their run of good fortune as of late

Yet as hours bled the day over into the late hours of night, as over in Konoha Naruto was walking home from his shift at the Akimichi's after a particularly fierce dinner rush at said restaurant. Yet as he was about to open the door to his and Sakura's house he felt the world around him almost come to a crawl, as before him stood the phantasmal apparition of Arceus; glowing in faint multicolored light.

"Mr. Arcues?...What's going on?" Naruto asked the apparition before him

"I need to tell you that you must go after the Spooky Plate immediately…For it seems as though you are not the only one on the hunt for the plates as well." Arceus told his inheiritor

"Well, shit…I figured that people were gonna be after the plates sooner or later. Since that guy Sasuke and Sakura found the Dread Plate; I kinda figured it wasn't gonna be long before someone started hunting them down." Naruto responded

"...So whose the schnook that's going after the Plate? It can't be that bad can it?" Naruto questioned as to whom it was that was going after the Plate of phantasmal power

"Yes, as it seems as though someone very powerful by the name of Orochimaru, has sent one of their acolytes after it...One who is rather powerful if they sent them to do so alone no less." Arceus answered back as the fact that Orochimaru was after the plates caused Naruto's head to snap in full attention of this tidbit of information

"Wait a minute, you mean to tell me that Orochimaru, one of the Legendary Sannin, and one of the most dangerous people across the nation. Is going after the plates?!" Naruto said in shock and surprise of this new information

"Indeed, as it turns out they have been on the hunt for sometime…Due to my limited presence and capacity to interact with the mortal world, I was not able to sense his acquiring of the plates beforehand. However, now that you have gathered more than a sufficient number of plates. I am able to interact more effectively than ever before." Arceus informed their champion

"Well, crapbaskets…This is…This is fucking great…Granted I shoulda figured that someone like him would go after these things, eventually. But damn this makes things a whole lot more difficult…FUCK!" Naruto cursed knowing he'd have to deal with a potentially amped Orochimaru as well

"...I wish that I could have told you about this earlier. However, given my previously limited ability to interact with the world at large…My 'hands' were tied." Arceus said in apology to their champion for not having informed them quicker of Orochimaru's search for the plates as well

"...Hey, its fine. What's done is done, and there's not much that can be done to change what already is. What matters is that we get on top of this now, and beat whoever he's gonna send to the Spooky Plate, and quick!" Naruto replied knowing that at this point further complaining was more or less semantics at this point in time

"Indeed. The location of the Spooky Plate is at the centermost point within what is known as the Mountain's Graveyard….And be careful Naruto. Things are becoming much, much more dangerous as more of the plates awaken." Arceus warned the superhuman blonde

"Don't worry, Mr. Arceus. I should be fine if things go south...I mean if things really get bad then I can summon one of the legendaries to help me out." Naruto said back in high hopes that he'd come out of this in one piece

"If that is the case, then I will leave the rest up to you my champion...Best of luck to you as well." Arceus said before dissapparating into their home plane

'So I've gotta beat one of Orochimaru's henchmen to the Spooky Plate; before they get it and amp him up…No pressure.' Naruto said as he took a deep exhale as an immense nervous energy filled his bones
"After this, I am gonna smoke the fattest blunt with Kazushi I can." Naruto spoke before heading inside in knowing he had much to plan for

So with another date with Hanabi in the books, and time well spent with visiting Gaara; our superhuman blonde in question is now in a race against Kimimaro for whoever can acquire the Spooky Plate…Now how will things transpire as both forces conspire to gather the remaining plates across the Elemental Nations?! Find out in the future installments of, Naruto: The PokeSage!


Alright, that takes care of that. I hoped you guys enjoyed the events of what transpired in this chapter, since this was quite a bit of fun to have written out.

But that being said, I hope you guys are gonna be sticking around for what's to come since things as always are continuing to change as now that Naruto knows that Orochimaru is gathering the Plates. He now has an additional incentive to gather them all before Orochimaru and his forces can.

Yet with all that done and out of the way, this is Pravus666 signing off until next time; with the next chapter having Naruto and Kimimaro head off for the Spooky Plate and everything that comes out of that. So stay tuned for more!

Part 2 Theme Song: To the Pain by Nonpoint

Random End Song: Paralyzer by Finger Eleven


Now then onto some of the reviews from the last chapter.

Kourtney Uzu Yato: Yeeaahh, Team Kazushi really does not mess around considering that if they're gonna fight you; then expect to be hit with Mortal Kombat levels of pure pain, because either way you slice it; it isn't gonna turn out well even if you survive a fight from them. And yup Azula has her sights set on Naruto as her rival to become even stronger for the sake of being a greater Fire Daimyo than her father, and seeing Sasuke as someone who would be a great partner concerning romance given that he has all the traits in a lover that she desires. Also, while I didn't show it this chapter; I will show that hey they aren't taking it too well that they're getting 'shafted' out of higher ranking missions while Naruto and company get all the good ones...something that Kakashi's gonna lay into them with when he gets the chance.

Darth Diablos: Yeah, I'm not really a big fan of prophecies either my guy. Since they rarely go without something getting messed up, as 9 times out of 10 things just go so much worse than what was intended because people just don't know when to keep out of something that doesn't concern them; as some people should learn that when a prophecy issued, that the best thing to do is just to let it lie...Otherwise, you have a 85 to 90% chance of making everything drastically worse in the long term. Also, don't worry about the Toads, I got something for them next chapter; since you have to remember that Arceus hasn't forgotten about them trying to intefere with Naruto via the prophecy, and as such has chosen one of the legendaries to make his statement of ' Stop messing with my champion or suffer the consequences', and trust me it ain't gonna be pretty to say the least.

Skull Flame: I'm glad you caught that reference with Combustion Man being used as the Assassin, since I figured that if I'm going to include A.T.L.A characters into the story; then I gotta have this man make an appearance somewhere, and what better way than as an assassin chasing down Azula. Furthermore, you nailed it with Azula wanting Sasuke as her consort...the only thing is that; Sasuke's gonna have a lot ahead of him in order to show that he's worthy of being her royal consort.

God of Wind 200: Trust me when Ozai has his talk with Minato and Jiraiya on why he was not included on something that involved the fate of his entire country...To say he's gonna be pissed is an understatement since its gonna be a miracle that Jiraiya doesn't face execution for what he did, given that in Ozai's eyes what they did tantamounts to high treason against the crown.