KG: No real news this time, surprisingly. Enjoy the chap!

Music of the Week: Was Always Very Quiet by Ah Sang

Quote: "Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all," by George Washington

Obito narrowed his eyes. Even for him, he never thought he'd see Shimura Danzo in such a decrepit state. Naturally, he felt no sympathy for the man, especially given the circumstances he was involved with regarding the Uchiha Clan. Yes, Obito knew how hypocritical that might have sounded to anyone else, but he wouldn't lose any sleep over Danzo's suffering. In fact, the old warhawk had needed some suffering as of late.

That said, the former member of Team Minato never imagined that so gruesome a fate would come upon Danzo. The man was like Orochimaru in some ways, simply too slippery. Additionally, he had a golden tongue, not even a silver one. Danzo had a way with people that, rather than trust him, forced people into submission to him. If he got your submission willingly, then that was fun. Yet, he wasn't above using whatever means to force submission. Just how many dead men lay behind the imposing shadow of Shimura Danzo?

Even Obito was wary of dealing with him. One wrong turn and plans could be burned to ashes because of him. Obito supposed the saying remained true.

Beware of old men in a profession where men die young. However, there didn't seem to be much to be wary of at this point.

One thing Obito noticed of Danzo was the smell. The Uchiha didn't know what sort of wretched machinations the one named Jigen performed on him, but there must have been a lot of fire or acid involved. Most, if not all, of Danzo's body lay disfigured, skin barely clinging to old bones. One of his eyes hung out of its socket by the muscle tissue. His tongue had been ripped out. Not even his teeth remained. The stench of burning flesh was enough to singe the nose.

Overall, he looked more like a corpse than a live man.

"What have you been doing to him?" Obito inquired.

Rather than respond, Jigen reached into his pocket and pulled out a vial. The Akatsuki members noticed a white swirling mass like fire sway inside the vial. "Indeed, Uzumaki Naruto, and those allied with him, have become the most powerful beings to walk this planet. This was the portion I managed to gather over seven months of activity. Inside lays the source of Uzumaki Naruto's power, the unlimited power of the God of Death," Jigen claimed.

Obito immediately flinched, narrowing his eyes at the vial. It seemed so small and unassuming, yet he, more than anyone, knew the power within it. Just a small trace of it from his battle with the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki months ago forced him to cut off his arm.

"So this is what makes Uzumaki Naruto so fearsome? And you managed to gain so little of it," Kisame claimed.

Jigen frowned, pocketing the vial again. "It is not easy to contain, especially in times such as these. Even this vial won't contain this power forever. It will be a long time before I am to acquire another sample. I have studied its effects and truly it's not a power that can be wielded under mortal might alone," Jigen claimed.

"And what does that have to do with Shimura Danzo?" Black Zetsu questioned, making Jigen turned a questioning gaze toward him. Both Zetsu shivered once again yet held the gaze. It wouldn't do for them to appear too unsettled.

After a moment, Jigen turned back. "Through means of his own, Shimura Danzo came to me, seeking asylum in trade of an alliance. I accepted. Since then, he has proven a sturdy test subject. Do with this what you will," Jigen said, throwing something toward them.

The frown on Obito's face deepened when he saw an army of perfectly preserved sharingan. Kisame picked it up and chuckled. "Danzo's more ruthless than even I thought. I wonder if Itachi knew about this," the swordsman commented.

Obito glanced at the Regent for a moment, noticing he was very silent. Usually, the man couldn't shut up. Then again, Obito was like that as well with his Tobi-persona. However, there hadn't been much of a need for that goofy performance as of late. Clenching his fists, he thought of Rin and Kakashi.

Exhaling to himself, he turned back to Jigen. "You brought us here for a reason. Experimenting on a dying man is hardly something so worthy of all of us. You just said that the power of the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki can't be wielded by mortals. I've had personal experience with its might. If that's the case, then what do you keep it around for?" Obito asked.

Upon being asked this question, Jigen's eyes glimmered but briefly. "Simple. What does an animal do when it encounters something foreign? It learns to evolve, adapt, and overcome. What lays within this vial is the key to a realm once thought nigh impossible. Within this vial is a might even grander than those nuisances you covet for power. With this vial, an even greater God Tree can be cultivated. A God Tree with fruit cultivated from the blood of the very highest of all evolution. What are the bijuu when compared to that?" the monk-like man inquired.

Zetsu, more notably the black half, narrowed their eyes. "What is… a God Tree?" White Zetsu asked.

If there was ever a time Black Zetsu wished its other half to shut up, then it was definitely this time. Black Zetsu didn't like Jigen's gaze whenever it landed on them. Well, more on Black Zetsu that White. It was clear to see that he saw through their plan relatively easily. However, even though he gathered this knowledge, he'd yet to use it toward his advantage. What would he be saving the knowledge for?

"The God Tree. Uchiha Madara spoke of it. It was the thing we'd use to enact Project Tsuki no Me. Nagato believed that once all the bijuu were gathered, they would create an ultimate weapon that none of the nations could control thus creating peace. He was right, though heavily misinformed. The Gedo Mazo holds the body of the original bijuu, the first before the other nine were created. It was the Juubi, a create of such unrivaled strength that some claim even the Rikudo Sennin couldn't defeat it on his own. The God Tree was said to be the original form the Juubi. I don't know how it turned into the Juubi but with its power, we would have done as Akatsuki gave its mission," Obito explained.

White Zetsu looked confused, yet Black Zetsu remained uncertain. Kisame, though interested in the conversation, made no outward appearance that he cared one way or the other. As for the Regent, he remained silent. Were it not for the subtle movements of his body, one might think him a lifeless statue.

"However, the question remains. The God Tree was an existence the likes that even the Rikudo Sennin required tremendous power to bend to his will. It will take more than an arm full of Sharingan to match the power of nine bijuu, two of which have obtained this very same power that fuels Uzumaki Naruto. Many even dare speculate him to be on a higher plane than even the Rikudo Sennin. The Regent might vouch for your capabilities, but I personally want to know how you plan on equalling the accomplishments of a fabled myth?" Obito asked, glaring at Jigen.

The monk remained silent for a long while, almost apparently ignoring the Uchiha. Such disrespect made Obito seethe behind his mask. Yet, before he could address the matter, he noticed Jigen turn to him.

"...I have my ways."

-x-

Sasuke landed on a tree branch and pushed himself forward while Neji, Tayuya, Itachi, and Konan fell into step behind him. The group of five had just landed back on the mainland follow their week at sea from the Land of Whirlpools. Currently, they found themselves heading toward Konoha. Some might question why they bothered going at such a swift pace considering no one knew where Danzo was at the moment, but it was a long way to Konoha, which would only be made much shorter in this pursuit. Additionally, Sasuke had his own business to contend with Danzo.

"Even should we find Danzo, I believe we should expect resistance. For no nation to have heard or seen of him means that someone is currently hiding him. We could expect resistance," Neji claimed, his food knocking on the wood of giant tree branches, propelling himself forward behind Sasuke.

"Konan-san, do you believe Obito and the remains of the Akatsuki would seek Danzo?" Itachi asked.

The user of paper frowned slightly, her beautiful face becoming marred with indecision. "I wouldn't rule out the possibility. Had the world not been remade so quickly, I would have advised to visit former locations. The Akatsuki hd more than a few meetings with Danzo, despite mutual distrust," Konan claimed.

Tayuya grunted. "You could say the same for fucking Orochimaru too. Wouldn't trust Danzo no matter how many deals they made, but you'd think they were two fucking peas in a pod sometimes. With the world being remade, all the secret bases have been destroyed as well. There's nothing left anywhere. Tracking that shithead's gonna take a while," the redhead said.

Sasuke glared forward. Indeed, he knew that the mission Naruto was giving him was a lengthy one, especially with no previous information to off of. However, Konoha was the lone place that had survived the entire world's destruction. Hopefully, some documents referring to Danzo's dealings might still be there. It would at least provide valuable direction. "Perhaps, but I believe he has continued to have agents in the village, even with his disappearance. While you guys look through any documents pertaining to potential whereabouts, I'm going to speak to the council," Sasuke said.

Itachi frowned. "Be careful of them, Sasuke. The council will say many things. They've had plenty of time to maneuver themselves to advantageous positions," the older brother warned. Even Itachi had been swayed. Of course, he still felt he made the right decision, but that didn't necessarily stop the memories… or the nightmares.

"I'm aware. Learning the truth of the clan demise… as well as what my father devised has disillusioned me to the point of villages. In another life, I might have declared war on the villages, and Naruto, the ever stubborn idiot, would try to stop me," Sasuke admitted.

Tayuya laughed. "Sounds like him. Though, strangely enough, that sounds like fucking you too. So what made you turn it around?" she asked.

Sasuke continued to run, the others close behind him. He pondered Tayuya's question but briefly. "To dobe gave me something worth protecting," Sasuke answered, cutting the conversation there. The others looked at each other curiously, yet of them all, only Itachi had a slight smile on his face.

"Well, fucking congratulations," Tayuya responded, rolling her eyes as they continued to run.

The days passed surprisingly quickly for Sasuke's Team. Day and night were spent making plans and coordinating attack strategies. By the time they reached Konoha, the group was sure they'd had all but a war room's congregation of meetings.

"I never thought we'd be back here so soon," Neji commented, staring at the village which had been his home for the last sixteen years, never mind all the ups and downs associated with it.

"Feeling homesick?" Tayuya asked.

"Not as much as I thought I might," Neji replied.

Konan kept her gaze even. Her experiences with Konoha hadn't lessened. Of course, she'd befriended Yuri while the Sanbi Jinchuuriki was allied with Konoha, but Konan still didn't have a very favorable opinion of the village. Shinobi from their village still murdered Nagato's parents. The war had devastated their land, but it wasn't like she hadn't ruined lives as well, lives that amounted to nothing now that Nagato and Yahiko's goal was impossible to achieve.

Nevertheless, for the sake of peace, she was willing to set aside any animosity. Besides, after dealing with Jashin and the nigh close call the Elemental Nations had, Konan was more than willing to set aside vendettas. That said, it certainly seemed a little humours that two former Akatsuki members would be able to enter the village unimpeded.

"Let's go," Sasuke said.

The group nodded and headed toward the village. The closer they came, the busier they noticed the inside actually was. As expected, there were craftsmen and sculptors everywhere. Carts were carried to and fro at every cardinal direction. And yet, Konoha was less busy than the other nations. No doubt having a village that survived the massacre helped with that.

The closer the group came, it didn't take them long to realize that they were expected. A group of shinobi led by Shiranui Genma greeted them. "Well, well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes, Uchiha Sasuke? Hokage-sama didn't tell us you were coming," Genma replied.

Sasuke's expression remained neutral. "Because she wasn't told. Naruto will inform her upon his attending of the Kage Summit. As for our unannounced visit, I need to know if you have any records kept of Shimura Danzo. We're looking for him," Sasuke claimed.

Genma blinked. "Social as always," The jonin claimed, flickering his senbon between his teeth. He then cleared his throat, taking a moment to survey the Uchiha's team. He certainly had quite the group of individuals accompanying him.

"Identification?" he asked.

Tayuya frowned. "Are you fucking serious?" she growled, tapping her foot impatiently.

Genma shrugged. "Unfortunately. We had a few… imposters as of late," he replied. Tayuya snorted and revealed the side of her neck, showcasing the divine insignia of the Shinigami. Sasuke revealed his own, in addition to the tattoo created by Naruto, acknowledging his authority. Konan, Neji, and Itachi swiftly followed after.

Genma glanced at a Hyuuga in his team for only a moment. The man nodded and the jonin turned back to his visitors. "Come on," he said, allowing them to enter the village.

Sasuke and the others followed him in. They ignored the looks sent their way. It wasn't anything out of the usual. Having been making physical appearances at nearly every corner of the globe in the last few months, they'd all had more than enough time to get used to their new celebrity statuses. Of course, not every gaze was positive, but no one was willing to make untoward comments.

"You've been dealing with impostors?" Konan asked, finding nothing better to do at the moment.

"There have been a few isolated incidents. Many think they can get away with matters if they mention Naruto's name. Thankfully, not many of the incidents are critical, just some troublemakers. Only two were more trouble than we'd anticipated. Both cases have been handled and the criminals have been imprisoned. Sorry if we're a little on edge at the moment," Genma replied.

Neji's lips thinned. "Sounds concerning," he answered.

Genma just nodded and led Sasuke's team through the village, the group gathering a welcome amount of attention. A few children ran up to them, and Konan received them happily. Yet, the parents were notably much more cautious. It hadn't escaped the notice of any of them that while many were happy, thrilled, or compliant, just as many were scared, suspicious, and concerned.

Tayuya rolled her eyes, not even bothering to bring attention to the gazes sent their way. Wordlessly, the others agreed while Genma guided them toward the Hokage Mansion's archives. He led them through a number of corridors before he took them to a single room.

Opening the door, the team was greeted with hundreds of bookcases lined with books, scrolls, secret documents, and maps. Weaving through a number of handsigns, Genma deactivated the security measures guarding the archives. With the seals down and no threat, he faced the group.

"You're welcome to all the information. If you need anyone, then I can assign a chunin to help you look through the records. I admit, it feels a little strange using such information to hunt down a former council member, but even I understand that Danzo's too loyal to Konoha to consider times such as these. No doubt he'd try to make sure Konoha stood on top of the nations even in peaceful times like these. A guy like him needs to be subdued quickly," Genma claimed.

"That's why we're here. We'll tell you if we need anything," Sasuke said.

Genma nodded and quickly left them alone. The group of five scanned the room momentarily. "This is gonna be a fucking headache," Tayuya glowered.

"Aren't you an Uzumaki? Just use clones," Konan suggested.

"And make my damn collapse in on itself from all the reading I'll be doing?! Since when did you grow a sense of humor?" she asked.

Konan shrugged before Sasuke ceased their scabbling. "Enough complaining. We're here to work," he said as he grabbed a book and began sifting through it. Neji and Itachi fell into step behind him with Konan not far behind. Tayuya sucked her teeth but continued onward as well.

-x-

Yukimaru panted as he and Hanabi leaned against a tree off the side of the road, catching their breath following the brutal training session that Naruto had put them through. What was it with teachers and being slave masters? One wouldn't think it from Naruto's innocent visage, but the Uzumaki Patriarch could be quite stern when they thought about it.

"E-Everything hurts," Yukimaru wheezed while Hanabi winced from her bruises. The young Hyuuga then shivered when they both felt the ground-shaking explosion rattling off in the distance, courtesy of Naruto, Yuri, and Yura. Her young eyes marveled as flames of gold and violet waved through the air, dispersing into the sky like beautiful lines from the sun.

"How can they still keep fighting? We've been doing this for the last four hours!" Hanabi gasped, watching with tired eyes.

Though it pained him, Yukimaru laughed. "That's Naruto-nii for you. He never seems to run out of energy no matter what you throw at him. But, are you alright, Hanabi-san? Yuri-nee didn't exactly hold back against you," Yukimaru said, his eyes lingering on her injuries.

The younger sister of Hyuuga Hinata huffed. "I'll live. Had she held back I would have been angrier. I'd rather face my shortcomings than have someone coddle me. But… thanks for asking," Hanabi said.

Smiling at her compliment, Yukimaru couldn't help but slide his hand until his fingers interlaced with hers. The sudden contact startled the Hyuuga heiress but it wasn't unwelcome. She couldn't help but smile and grasped his fingers as well. Neither even had the time to notice that the explosions had stopped.

"Aww, isn't that cute, Yura-nee?It seems we didn't push them hard enough if they can still do that," Yuri giggled, starting the youngsters. They pulled their hands away, their faces flushed with embarrassment.

Yura came from the trees, her face caked with sweat. "Don't embarrass them, Yuri. Everyone's like that at first. I'm sure you were like that with Nii-sama once before," Yura countered, making Yuri chuckle while Naruto came from the trees.

"Alright, I think that's enough training for one day. Rest up for about an hour and then we'll head out. While we're running, Yukimaru, Hanabi, we'll review the lessons we've gone over with politics. As you can tell from the sound of my voice, I'm looking forward to this about as much as you are," Naruto commented dryly.

"Understood," Hanabi replied.

"Yes, Naruto-nii," Yukimaru uttered.

Nodding, Naruto took a moment to exhale, allowing his summons to split from his soul following the merger. Aside from training Yukimaru and Hanabi, Naruto, Yuri, and Yura trained themselves extensively with their own methods. Over the days, Naruto finally managed some semblance of normalcy with Pakura while his proficiency and trust with the others rose to even greater heights. In particular, he found greater success with Dan and Yahiko than almost anyone else. The merger felt so natural that they were entirely one being on numerous occasions. It was a rather strange, yet fulfilling feeling.

After a moment, Naruto sat down to rest only to find himself surrounded on both sides by his two redhead lovers. "You know I'm sweaty right now," he commented.

"Believe me, I'm used to it," Yuri retorted.

"Y-Yuri!" Yura exclaimed, making her little sister laugh. Before the older sister could reprimand her, Naruto turned his head and captured her lips in a fierce kiss that made Yura glad she was sitting. Her legs would have gone out otherwise. Plus, his tongue invaded her mouth, striking at the very corner of her cheek and swirling around her own tongue like a coiled serpent. She kissed him back hungrily, her hand rubbing his arm slowly.

"I've got to be crazy if I think my older sister kissing my lover is hot. Maybe I have read one too many shoujo manga," Yuri said to herself, biting her lower lip. Fuck, she wished Yukimaru and Hanabi weren't around. She really needed to get fucked, and in the worst way. She hadn't had any sex since Naruto and Kushina started that celibacy thing. It was enough to make her go mad! She wasn't even getting married.

Either way, thankfully, the Sanbi Jinchuuriki's erratic thoughts were put on hold when Naruto turned to her and kissed her too. Unfortunately, the only purpose that kiss served was to lit the burning embers of passion within her and turn them into a searing inferno. So aroused was Yuri that her entire body trembled in Naruto's arms, shaking and trembling like a leaf from sheer pleasure. One of her hands rubbed his chest and the other tickled his cheek. His lips tasted so wonderful, rough, powerful, and thirsty.

However, while Yuri found herself losing her mind to the pleasure, Naruto quickly became aware of what he was doing to his younger lover. He quickly came to understand that perhaps he'd neglected Yuri's need for too long. Of course, he wished to remedy that, but he didn't wish to do so when his mind was still frayed with rapture from his honeymoon, something which had been cut short. He didn't want Yuri to feel like his passion for his mother was put onto her. That said, he could also be overthinking it. He certainly missed Yuri as well, and Yura.

Naruto parted slowly from Yuri, making sure his eyes stared into hers. They breathed slowly, looking at each other. Yuri's face was flushed and her body became less than a bundle of nerves. The slightest thing would no doubt set her off.

"If you can hold out until we arrive in Iwagakure, then I've got a special surprise for you. Something that you've always wanted to do," Naruto whispered into Yuri's ear.

"N-Naruto-nii, I can't…" Yuri shivered. She raked her mind, wondering what she'd asked that the Kyuubi JInchuuriki remembered. She'd said so many things.

Naruto smiled. "You can, and you will," he uttered. Yuri sharply inhaled and clenched her fists. She retook control of herself with the greatest effort and slumped to the ground. This was officially the worst day of her life.

"You better keep that promise, Naruto-nii," Yuri whined much to Naruto's amusement.

Yet, off to the side, Yura watched, aroused, and greatly conflicted. Given her training and her proximity to her lover and sister, it wasn't hard to hear both of them. She wanted nothing more than to partake in the joys that Yuri and Kushina experienced, but… Yura wanted to be married first. It was something she always dreamed about, giving all of herself to her husband, her one and only husband. She felt it had more meaning for her. However, it was certainly hard to stay that way when she saw the dreamy, dazed looks on Kushina and Yuri's faces. Whatever it was like it must have been really… something.

And Naruto, ever observant recently, noticed this as well. He then turned to Yura. "And I've got something in mind for you as well. I promise," he teased in her ear. Yura swallowed nervously. Should she, as a trained kunoichi, allow herself to be led around like this? Well, many seasoned veterans would say no, but… they weren't exactly here right now.

Finding his result met, Naruto finally got up and surveyed the faces of the two Uzumaki sisters, both dizzy from his seduction. He kissed them one more time and then departed to his own business.

"N-Naruto-nii's getting cocky lately," Yuri claimed.

"I don't think we're putting up much of a fight, however," Yura answered.

…Well, it wasn't like Yuri could fault that line of thinking.

Following those events, a long, awkward, and cold river bath's hour passed until everyone reassembled. Yuri dried her hair with a bit of a glare sent at her lover. He'd better have the best damned surprise of a lifetime or she was gonna fucking rip him to pieces. What was even worse was the fact that even through her glare, he offered her a smug smirk. She didn't even know he could do smug.

"Everyone ready?" Naruto asked.

"Yes," Hanabi said. Yukimaru, Yura, and Yuri nodded after her.

"Good, then let's move. We should be entering the lands of Taki in two or three days. It'll take us another three or four days. If we take any longer, then I'll teleport us there. Now, let's move," Naruto ordered.

The others agreed and ran off. Not long into the trip, Naruto turned to Yukimaru and Hanabi. "Now, Yukimaru, do you remember what we talked about last time?" the blond asked.

The younger man nodded. "The art of deals and trades?" he asked.

The Kyuubi JInchuuriki nodded. Thus, he began to educate and teach Yukimaru and Hanabi. Days were filled with combat training and nights were filled with study and instruction. The two younger shinobi continued to ask questions while Yura and Yuri proved capable assistants by helping Naruto plan political scenarios. All of it left the two children understandably exhausted.

As night settled over the northern lands of the Elemental Nations, Naruto looked at Yukimaru and Hanabi peacefully resting in their sleeping bags. His eyes then lingered on Yuri and Yura. He couldn't sleep, instead choosing to gaze upon the moon for a time. Well, more specifically, he was looking at the one who was looking at the moon.

In a surprising show of humility, or at least humility for Otsutsuki Kagura, the clan's princess inquired for time to gaze upon the moon of her own volition. Unease, yet finding no reason to deny her, Naruto allowed her the time. Kagura removed herself from Naruto but briefly and floated in the sky, her pale eyes glaring at the white celestial body with nothing but anger.

"Don't tell me you desire another wife. You might be overreaching yourself, Naruto," Kurama suddenly said, breaking the blond's concentration.

Naruto snorted. "Very funny, Kurama. No, if anything I'm a little worried. Kagura's already powerful on her own. It makes me wonder just how powerful her sister is. Even then, there's an entire clan potentially full of people like her. It just feels like its Jashin all over again," he uttered.

"You do know you conquered that bastard, right?" Kurama inquired, laying himself down on the floor, his white tails moving about.

Naruto exhaled slowly. "Not on my own. Had it not been for Shin, I wouldn't have beaten him. Plus, the guy was overconfident. If he'd taken the fight seriously, I don't think I'd have a chance in hell of beating him. Even then, too many things had to go right to give me the opening I needed. Kurama, how long can the Elemental Nations really go on? Given what Kagura's already told me, it won't be long before the Otsutsuki come looking for… whatever it is they're looking for, a God Fruit. I just… wonder what's next. What am I being prepared for?" he said softly, watching Kagura continue to float there.

Kurama, surprisingly, had nothing to say to the blond's words. If anything, it didn't seem like Naruto was fishing for a reply anyway. He just continued to observe Kagura until the Otsutsuki princess seemingly had enough of glaring. She floated back to him and resided back in his sword.

After a moment of silent meditation, Naruto spent a bit of time furthering his training silently. In one hand, he spawned gold flames. In the other, he spawned the violet ones. He crashed them both together, spending the better part of an hour cultivating them. They burned and tore at his soul in equal measure. It was hard to breathe and even harder to concentrate. He longed to sync up with one of his summons. Sharing the agony would be so much more preferable, yet Kurama sternly declined such an easy route.

"Keep working, brat. This is one thing you're gonna have to accomplish by yourself," The fox claimed. Every inhale burned Naruto's nostrils, yet he did as instructed. He didn't waver and his soul suffered under the weight of immense pressure. The flames stuck to his skin and seared their insignia onto his flesh. Not even his eyes or the insides of his body were safe. Dare the blond even say that his very heart was being burned.

When he was finally allowed to release the flames, they dispersed and he fell back in agony. The Kyuubi Jinchuuriki panted, clutching his burning chest. It seemed so severe that Suiren wasn't willing to watch her summoner in pain any longer. Merging her soul with Naruto's, she shared his pain until he was strong enough to crawl back to his lovers and the children. With a word of thanks to Suiren, Naruto climbed into bed and fell asleep almost instantly.

The next morning came way too soon. The pain of last night still weighed on Naruto and it showed in his steps. "Nii-sama, are you alright?" Yura asked, the others a fair ways ahead of him.

Naruto inhaled and exhaled slowly. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just gimme a minute," he answered.

Concerned, Yuri rushed over to him and grabbed his arm. "You sure? You look like you're about to fall over," she said, holding him up.

Naruto laughed, his pride virtually in the dirt. He leaned up, his body feeling sore. With one more breath, he felt strong enough to continue onward.

"You sure you're alright, Naruto-nii?" Yukimaru asked worriedly.

Naruto smirked. "You know me. I'm built tough, Yukimaru. I'll be fine," he replied, hoping to calm the nerves of the others. Luckily, Naruto had no idea how right he would be in a few minutes.

The longer they journeyed over the road, the more Naruto started to feel better. In fact, he started to feel even better than he did yesterday. He was bursting with energy, so much so that he had to contain himself as Yuri and Yura warned him of Yukimaru and Hanabi. The two children were wheezing trying to keep up with him.

"Erm, sorry," he claimed.

Opting for some leisure, Naruto slowed the pace much to the delight of Yukimaru and Hanabi. Of course, that didn't the Naruto, or Yura, from continuing Hanabi and Yukimaru's training in politics, even if it was irksome.

"Alright, Yukimaru, when someone speaks to you and asks you to…"

Whatever Naruto was going to say next died in his throat. His eyes narrowed and the smile on his face quickly turned into a deep frown. Even Kurama leaned up and growled, followed by the Kindred and Mōryō. Hell, even the others became aware of the mysterious sense in the air.

"What the hell is that?" Yahiko asked, frowning as he honed in a very strange presence.

"I don't know, but I feel it as well. Whatever it is, it's powerful. Almost absurdly so. It's like… one of those corrupted humans that Jashin used. No, stronger perhaps?" Pakura questioned, narrowing her eyes.

Dan leaned up, sharing Naruto's senses with the others. They all saw the open road, nary a soul in sight. "Yet, this presence feels similar. Almost similar to…" The former jonin from Konoha paused his thought, turning his head toward Kagura.

The princess of the Otsutsuki clan frowned deeply. Just as the others, she saw what Naruto saw. Though there was nothing on the road, it was clear to her that there was indeed the presence of two, no three Otsutsuki headed their way. However, the strange part was that Kagura had grown in the depths of Otsutsuki culture. Trained by her parents to lead the clan at some point, she was well-versed in reading the strength of various clan members. And yet, if she had a real body, she would have been sweating. Even for her, this Otsutsuki presence felt disturbingly vast, perhaps… even vaster than the summoner she was tied to.

But, how was that possible?

It seemed that Kagura would get her answer as Naruto suddenly stopped. He then grabbed his sword.

"Naruto-nii?" Yukimaru asked, drawing the attention of the others.

Immediately, Yura and Yuri knew something was wrong. There were very few times that their lover wore such chilling expressions. "Nii-sama, what's wrong?" Yura inquired.

"Something's coming. Stick close to me," the blond said.

Hanabi and Yukimaru exchanged looks. They couldn't sense anything out of the ordinary. Surprisingly, neither could Yura or Yuri. However, they'd certainly be more than a little foolish if they disregarded Naruto's senses.

"Do you know how far away?" Yura asked.

Naruto shook his head, drawing two fingers over his sword. "No, but that's what I'm gonna find out," he said as he summoned Kimimaro, Pakura, and Dan. The three spirits flew off while Naruto commanded the group to keep walking. He situated himself, Yura, and Yuri around Hanabi and Yukimaru as they continued onward.

"Should we really be pushing forward when we don't know where the enemy is?" Hanabi questioned.

Naruto didn't respond immediately. Instead, he'd been placing his all into pinpointing the tense feeling that came upon the group. Unfortunately, not even he was having much success. Even though he could see what Pakura, Kimimaro, and Dan saw, there didn't seem to be anything out of the ordinary. The roads were clear, the trees were blowing in the wind, animals were going about their own lives, and the lands were a display of utter peace across the horizon. Suffice to say, it was all perfect.

If there was anything Naruto was thankful for, it was that he wasn't alone in this feeling of unease. Kurama and the others, even after an entire hour passed, had not felt the disturbing aura subside. Had Naruto been on his own, he would have thought he just imagined the whole thing.

However, it wasn't long before Naruto heard Yuri snarl. "I sense it too," Yuri claimed.

Yura widened her eyes. She looked back at her sister. As typical of jinchuuriki, Yuri's pupils turned to slits. Within her, the Sanbi growled. As much as it was a blow to his pride, Isobu realized that he'd somehow missed the threat when Kurama hadn't.

"What are you sensing?" Yura asked, already attempting to gather what little of the gold and violet flames she was able to master. Even as an Uzumaki, she still had trouble sensing whatever they were supposed to be looking for.

"It's hard to explain. It's like… standing at the very bottom of the ocean worried that the pressure's gonna tear you apart, but… it doesn't," Yuri explained. She wasn't sure if she could provide anything better than that. In an odd way, it was sort of similar to Jashin's presence. Not quite as foreboding or vile, but certainly chaotic, almost infinitely so.

"Naruto-nii, what do we do?" Yukimaru asked.

Yeah, that was the question of the hour, wasn't it? On one hand, Naruto thought to just teleport Yukimaru and Hanabi out of harm's way. Given that this was the middle of nowhere, there were no guarantees that he could get back to this spot. There was also no guarantee that this presence would stay here. Could he leave a spirit here? Yes, he could do that as well. Yet, there was something within him that warned him against this path. It was the same foreboding feeling that warned him when he, Guren, and Komachi.

Finally, Naruto turned to them. "I'm going to teleport you guys to the nearest Iwagakure town. I'll stay here alone," the blond suggested.

"The hell you will, Naruto-nii!" Yuri clamored angrily.

Naruto faced her. "I need to investigate this, and you guys need to make sure Yukimaru and Hanabi get to Iwa safely. We don't…"

Yuri expected Naruto to retort more but he swiftly paused. Yukimaru and Hanabi remained silent as they watched the others converse. Both found themselves stilled by his silence. The glare on his face slowly softened until no trace of it was left. The Patriarch of the Uzumaki Clan then turned his head back to the road.

"Nii-sama?" Yura asked.

"Nevermind. Come on," he said, continuing to walk down the road.

To say that Yura and Yuri were confused was an understatement. He seemed so ready to tear into Yuri the very valid reasons why they should leave the matter to him, yet… now he just as quickly dismissed the thought and allowed them to come.

"Why'd he change his mind?" Hanabi asked. Unfortunately, no one had the answer, and no matter how they asked, Naruto didn't answer them.

The group must have walked for about half an hour in trepidation. At some point, Yura began to sense the invasive comers as well. However, at this point, there was hardly much for them except frown when they saw two robed figures gingerly walking over the hillside.

As soon as Naruto laid eyes on them, he stopped. He held up his hand and the others stopped as well. Once they stopped, Yuri quickly noticed that the two weren't alone. In the hands of one of them by the ethereal neck lay Kimimaro, a chain of amber fire wrapped around his neck. His eyes seemed to stare into a neverending void unaware of anything going on around him.

"Not only did they manage to capture Naruto-nii's summon but they also managed to subdue it as well. Great, the only thing worse than violent beasts… is violent beasts that can think," Yuri thought to herself.

She clenched her fists while Yukimaru and Hanabi swallowed nervously. It was immediately then that the latter realized Naruto was right. Being so close, it was nearly impossible not to sense the power of the two men. It was suffocating. She could hardly even breathe. Hell, even the Hyuuga heiress' vision had begun to grow blurry. Try as she might, she couldn't help but stumble back and forth, prompting Yukimaru to grab her and hold her in his arms.

"W-Why? They look so unassuming. Hardly even a threat at all, and yet… I feel like I'm being crushed into a thousand pieces. So why aren't they attacking us? Is Naruto-san trying to assess the threat? But there isn't…"

Out of the corner of her eye, Hanabi quickly realized the problem. The lands of Taki that they were currently passing through lay just on the border of the lands of Iwa. Given the terrain and the mountainous road path that they'd taken, she got a beautiful look at the valley below, recognizing two towns fairly close together. Under the untrained eye, they seemed more like a city than anything else. However, it was obvious that tradesmen and caravans were going about their mutual exchanges down there. Shinobi were paramount, maintaining the law and order established from the peace of the lives of millions.

Hanabi glared back at the robed figures. "Just great…" she thought to herself.

"Alright, I'm here. Let him go," Naruto warned, his eyes quickly burning with the furiously cold might of the Shinigami.

While Hanabi had no idea who Naruto was talking about, Yura, Yuri, and Yukimaru understood. They continued to watch silently as the robed figures made nary a move. Had they not been moving prior, one might assume them to be statues.

"For a lower lifeform, you possess great insight. As expected of a Lower Heir," the one on the left said.

Based on the deep tone and large frame, Naruto surmised this one to be a man. That likely meant that the smaller one who was holding Kimimaro was a woman. Then again, that person could be a man as well. The robe wasn't doing much for identification. That the case, Naruto didn't miss that insult thrown his way.

"Oh, I'll show you a lower lifeform!" Yuri hissed before Naruto touched her shoulder. She looked at him and stilled when the ground beneath his feet trembled.

"I said, Let. Him. Go," Naruto all but ordered.

The robed figure remained silent for a moment. Naruto then saw the flaming amber chain around Kimimaro's neck fade away. Regaining his senses, Kimimaro immediately flew back to Naruto.

"I have failed you, Shikyō-sama," Kimimaro said, holding his head low. He then faded out of view, returning residence in Naruto's blade with the others.

Naruto took a moment to collect himself. This entire situation seemed so outside the norm. While he'd been speaking to Yuri, Pakura and Dan returned to him with news of Kimimaro's capture. Not only could the robe figures see them, but they also subdued one of them. Just that alone made Naruto wary. However, he was also told to not bother with any 'techniques.' Yet, despite the threat, Pakura and Dan mentioned that the two simply wished to speak with the Summoner of the Shinigami, and all parties accompanied with him.

"Kurama, Kagura, either of you know these guys?" Naruto asked.

The fox gave a snarl filled with his vicious teeth. "Had I known, I would have told you when I sensed them. They're an enigma even to me," The Kyuubi said, frowning.

"They are Otsutsuki. However, they bear much mystery even to me. I have never sensed clan members like these two. By their posture, they are confident. They speak of you as a Lower Heir. Though versed in numerous texts and scrolls, I know not what this means. You should exercise caution. Even under the standard of the Otsutsuki, they are abnormal," Kagura warned.

Naruto didn't much like those comments. How would be abnormal amongst a clan of supposed celestial beings? Even then, Naruto briefly wondered if he had to worry about Kagura betraying him in favor of her clan members. If she joined them, then the matter would be that much more concerning. Although, by initial impressions, it seemed that Kagura didn't have a favorable opinion of them.

"Why are you here?" Naruto finally asked.

The taller robed figure shifted. "That it took you such a significant time to locate us is disappointing. Given that The Great Will wished to evaluate your worth, we find you… lacking even for a lower lifeform. We struggle to reason why you might be called an Heir, even a lower one. However, by your current aptitude, it's clear that you bested the Slaughter God not by your own power. The scars on your soul confirm it," he said.

Immediately, Kagura frowned. The others raised their eyebrows in confusion. "What the hell's The Great Will?" Yahiko questioned.

"The Great Will, the name of the figure who is considered as the ultimate, supreme deity of our clan. He was the first, and only, to ascend into godhood. Through thousands of deaths, rebirths, and ascensions he reached that pinnacle. So powerful has he been that tales claim he has created universes with but a thought of his own," Kagura claimed.

Pakura glanced at the Princess of the Otsutsuki Main Branch. "Wouldn't that put this guy even above The Shinigami?" she asked.

Unfortunately, Kagura didn't answer that. What she did answer was Suiren's inquiry. "And what is the name of this person?"

"Speak not names that you are not prepared to withstand for with great names comes even greater power and attention. I shall not see us turned to waste to sate your own curiosity," Kagura voiced, not even bothering to address them by looking at them.

Having not known the celestial woman for long, the others were too sure how to feel out all of her personality, but she almost sounded… scared. What could scare even her?

After all, she was an Otsutsuki. Shouldn't this news make her happy?

As for Naruto, he remained calm, even if his jaw tightened beneath his lips at the insults. Yuri scowled and Yura clenched her fists. Hanabi and Yukimaru continued to look on cautiously.

"Okay. Aside from insulting me, what else are you here for?" Naruto asked, laying his hand on his sword. The smaller of the two shifted only momentarily but a hand from the taller one ceased any further advance. The taller then took a step forward, stretching his hand out to the group.

"Rejoice, lower lifeform. Though you are but a lower heir, The Great Will has set his gaze on you. By your gaze, you have already identified us. Know that the Great Will has risen above the petty squabbles of what our clan has become. Greater ascension demands greater attention. Had it not been for your worth, our feet would not have deemed this land worthy to be stepped on. As you are now, you alone are incapable of protecting this planet from the Otsutsuki. Your battle has drawn their gaze and their interest in your world. They shall fall upon you in the future and all you have worked for shall be taken away. This is neither pride nor arrogance, The Great Will has foreseen your demise," the taller one said.

Naruto's lips thinned. Of course, most of what they were saying hadn't been new to him. He already discussed, in great length, the possibility of the Otsutsuki returning to the Kage. The villages were already beginning training programs to increase their prowess. However, to be told that the demise of their world was certain was a threat that the blond couldn't take lightly.

"Is that right? And why should you guys care what happens to our world?" Naruto asked.

The robed figure lowered his hand only momentarily. "We do not. We have made our stance on the matter clear. However, The Great Will must be obeyed. To resist is the purest folly. The Great Will has a vested interest in you and it knows that you care for this planet and its people being a lower lifeform yourself. To that end, The Great Will is willing to protect your planet and people from certain destruction. All you need do is forsake pledge obedience to him," The taller one said.

Yuri snorted. "Sheesh, with guys like these who needs businessmen? Isobu warns against it, Naruto-nii," Yuri claimed. The Sanbi had been speaking to her throughout the whole ordeal. The entire matter screamed of dangerous things beyond what even the Bijuu knew.

The same could be said of the Kyuubi and Mōryō. Being beings associated with the demonic or evil superstitions, both were well aware of deals that seemed too good to be true, especially those from revered beings. What was worse was that the robed figure spoke with such confidence that it was hard to tell if he was lying. It could also be that they thought they were telling the truth but their benefactor had less than noble intentions.

"I don't believe it either. While we've never seen or interacted with the Otsutsuki on our own, Kagura provided extensive knowledge of their culture. Perhaps they are different, but there's simply too much to consider to make a deal like that. Even then, I doubt Shinigami-sama would allow such a thing," Yura claimed.

Naruto closed his eyes, his thoughts running wild for a little while until he opened his eyes again. "Are you the ones who attacked Sasuke, Kakashi-sensei, and Yugao?" he asked.

Yura and Yuri's eyes widened in realization. They hadn't even thought to consider a matter like that. It could have been that they were hoping to see how powerful the forces of their world were at the moment. Yet, if they were the ones who attacked Sasuke and the others, then clearly that meant the group only lived because they sought no further qualms.

Unexpectedly, it was the shorter of the two that replied. "A meaningless endeavor. Aside from you, the rest of these lower lifeforms offer nothing of interest. Even we are not allowed to enter this plane for too long a time. Doing so would tear the very strands of this universe to pieces. Had you not slacked in your role, perhaps you would have reached a level close to ours. Suffice to say, your friend would not have survived hd he encountered us. Even should we hold back to the bare minimum he wouldn't last. For that, he should be thankful," the smaller person said.

As Naruto expected, this one seemed to be a woman from the feminine tone of the voice. She also sounded a lot more impatient than the man was. There was a haughtiness to her tone that Naruto had grown used to from numerous nobles.

"They speak the truth of that matter. The might which I sense from them, the Uchiha would have been unable to withstand. However, their attack still lies upon the celestial body that holds Kaguya. I sense the presence there still," Kagura claimed.

Before Naruto could speak further, the taller robed figure spoke. "We have offered you the matter from The Great Will. As foretold to us, being a lower lifeform you would refuse this great opportunity now. Thus, we shall take our leave. Though we have no reason to, we shall impart one last piece of information to you. The course that the Uchiha walks is a dangerous one. Assist him and he shall live, deny our advice and he shall die."

Naruto's eyes swiftly enlarged as did the others. He couldn't even more in time before the two figures faded out of existence right in front of him. With them, the overwhelming pressure dissipated as well.

"Sasuke-san's in danger?" Yukimaru asked.

"It could be a ploy. Maybe they're tyring to send Naruto somewhere?" Hanabi inquired.

Yura hummed. "It's possible, but it doesn't sound like a lie. Also, Sasuke-san's hardly weak. His one of the strongest shinobi of our generation. Who could beat him?" the older sister pondered, scratching her chin with her finger.

"Naruto-nii, what mission do you have Sasuke on?" Yuri asked.

Naruto frowned. "He's supposed to be looking into Danzo and where that guy's hiding. It could be a number of things," the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki ascertained.

"Well, Naruto-nii can't follow Sasuke-san all the time. He still has to appear for the Kage Summits," Yukimaru urged, gathering nods from the others.

"Kindred, you guys follow Sasuke and his team. Help them if needed and let me know if you find anything strange. In fact, hunt Danzo with them. It might make the mission a whole lot faster," Naruto ordered.

Inside his mindscape, Lamb stood to her feet and grabbed her bow while Wolf offered a toothy grin. "Understood, Shikyō-sama," Lamb said.

Quickly summoning the pair, Naruto sent them off. Lamb and Wolf flew through the air and vanished over the horizon at great speeds, honing in on Sasuke's unique signature. In less than a second, they'd be back in Konoha where the Uchiha and his team rested.

"You sure you should send only one?" Yura asked.

Naruto nodded. "Yeah. Besides, they're my best option for helping Sasuke without overwhelming him right now. Besides, knowing Teme, if I baby him he'll talk my ears off. If he needs more help than that, I'll know. Now, I'm gonna investigate the area. The rest of you stay on guard. Once I'm done, we're getting the hell outta here," the Patriarch of the Uzumaki Clan said.

"Best news I've heard all day," Hanabi expressed. Of all the things she'd been expecting today, this was definitely not one of them.

Unfortunately for Naruto, there wasn't anything to find from the robed Otsutsuki who had been standing in front of his group. It was like they never existed at all. Even with four Uzumaki sensing the surroundings, there was nothing to find. Not even Kagura or Kurama provided any help in that regard. All that was there was the two towns that unknowingly became hostages.

Upon finding nothing, Naruto finally decided to give up the matter. He thought to command some spirits to patrol the outer limits of the planet, but something told him that it would be a fruitless matter. If those two somehow got past his mother and him, then they wouldn't be found if they didn't want to be.

Gathering his lovers and the young ones together, Naruto opened a portal and stepped inside, the others walking in behind him.

Immediately, the portal opened in front of the tall gates of Iwagakure. The guards there quickly stood in front of the portal. By now, they'd grown rather used to the dark, swirling, pulsing void that had teleported so many of them to and fro. Of course, many of them still had apprehensions about the son of Konoha's Yondaime entering the village. Even fewer were happy with him having as much power and authority as he did, but no one else was willing to answer the call of duty. Hell, no one was willing to argue with the Shinigami otherwise either.

A few jonin and a handful of chunin stood in front of the portal, civilians hoping to enter the village marveling at the interaction. Many gasped in shock as they saw the Mediator of the Kage step out with his entourage.

"I'll never get used to that," Hanabi said, rubbing her shoulders and frowning when she saw the amusement on Yukimaru's face.

In the meantime, Naruto noticed a familiar jonin step forward. "Do you always have to be dramatic, Naruto-sama? How are we supposed to calm these people down now?" he said, making Naruto notice the awestruck masses that had gathered into the village for the Kage Summit. It was good for business after all, and business had to start booming.

On the usual, Naruto wouldn't have minded a little banter. But right now, there were more pressing matters to consider. "Are the Kage all here? I need them assembled," Naruto urged, his tone straightening the postures of many. There were a few murmurs throughout the civilian populace, merchants at the ready to begin trading information and stories.

The jonin cleared his throat. "Not all of them, Naruto-sama. You've actually arrived fairly early. Kazekage-sama, Mizukage-sama, and Hokage-sama have yet to arrive," he said.

Naruto sucked his teeth and sighed. "Fine. Then go tell the Tsuchikage and the Raikage that I need to meet with them immediately," the blond claimed.

The jonin frowned, unnerved by the grave seriousness in the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki's tone. However, he had not the authority to oppose an order from him of all people. "I… understood. Send word to Lady Tsuchikage and Lord Raikage immediately!" the jonin ordered.

Four chunin separated themselves from the group and quickly obeyed. Immediately, they dashed into the unstable, yet steadily building constructs of Iwagakure. After five minutes, they returned with news that the Tsuchikage and Raikage were awaiting Naruto's entrance.

Having already gone through the proper protocols for identification, Naruto, Yuri, Yura, Yukimaru, and Hanabi were granted access to the village.

"I admit, I understand that all the nations are rebuilding, but in the academy, the teachers always boasted of the grandeur of our enemies, Iwagakure, and their marvelous infrastructure. It's hard to imagine that military behemoth has been reduced to this. However, I'm impressed that construction has managed to grip the nation once again," Hanabi claimed.

"I always wanted to visit Iwagakure when I was younger. Guren-san claimed they had these delicious desserts called rock pies. Maybe we'll get some one of these days," Yukimaru answered,

Hanabi rolled her eyes, the two young children taking their fill of the Land of Rock. After the days events, they would have liked nothing more than to go to a hotel, inn, or whatever they had available and just relax for the rest of the day. Unfortunately, by Naruto's increasing steps, that seemed unlikely.

Unbeknownst to them, Naruto didn't appreciate doing this any more than they did. He wanted Yukimaru and Hanabi to bond and have their own time in Iwagakure instead of thrusting them into the harsh, time-consuming environment of the political arena. However, the matter required precedence and Naruto vowed to make it up to them later.

Arriving at what was to be the Tsuchkage's Mansion, a rather tall building with multiple floors made of wood, a shadow of its former grandeur, Naruto was led inside. "Alright, Yukimaru, Hanabi, this is earlier than I really wanted for either of you, but we're gonna be putting some of the techniques you learned into practice. Listen and learn," Naruto claimed.

"Understood."

"Got it, Naruto-nii."

"Kurotsuchi-sama, the mediator has arrived," a separate jonin said.

"Yeah, yeah, I know. Let him in," Kurotsuchi announced from behind the door.

Hanabi and Yukimaru quickly glanced at each other. That certainly wasn't what they'd planned. Even Hanabi, having been trained in the political arena before Yukimaru, was a little taken aback by the apparent Tsuchikage's abrasive language. Her father had always instilled in her politeness and noble speech, especially amongst the world leaders. That they didn't seem to reciprocate was an interesting turnabout.

"It's good to know that Kurotsuchi-san hasn't changed," Yura chuckled as the Iwa jonin immediately bowed and left.

Naruto opened the door and stepped inside. He immediately noticed Kurotsuchi and Ay around the conference table, their guards, Akatsuchi and Darui respectively, standing behind them. The Tsuchikage eyed the Mediator for only a moment before she turned her gaze toward the others who joined him.

"You know, if this is payback for us spoiling your honeymoon, then I gotta admit that you're more childish than I thought. It's a little funny but a little annoying at the same time," she said, leaning back in her chair.

Laughing, Naruto entered the room. "Well, it wasn't exactly you guys that ruined that part, at least not majorly. Besides, I'll just consider it as accruing vacation time," the blond said.

Ay leaned his sizable frame over the table. "Do you even know what 'accruing' means, Boy?" he asked. Despite himself, Darui smirked while Naruto grumbled.

"Of course I know what it means!" Naruto growled. How the hell was he still being treated like an idiot? Even more than that, who spread the word that he used to be an idiot in the first place?

The blond then glared when he heard a chuckle behind him. He turned his head and saw Hanabi covering her mouth with a closed fist. He then looked at Yuri, Yura, and Yukimaru, all three of whom found various parts of the councilroom interesting.

"Well, I guess it's good that our mediator isn't as big an idiot as people think he is," Kurotsuchi joked much to Naruto's chagrin.

After a moment, the blond finally settled the humor in the room by pulsing the density of his aura. Nearly everyone shivered as the Summoner of the Shinigami called for their attention. While a crude method to gather attention, he had to bring back the eyes of everyone to the severity of the situation he'd just experienced.

"Make fun of me later. I wanted to meet with you guys to let you know that once the others arrive, we'll be meeting immediately. Make sure you clear up your schedules because we're gonna be busy," Naruto ordered.

The Tsuchikage and Raikage leaned up when Naruto released the pressure. They looked at him a little surprised by his show of might, yet it served as a proper reminder that he was still the most powerful guy walking the face of the Earth currently. Perhaps they were just lucky that he was willing to be made a joke every once in a while.

Ay scowled, not so used to being humbled in such a way. "And what is this supposed to mean? You have news about this guy on the moon who attacked the Uchiha?" Ay inquired.

Naruto spared the dark-skinned man a look only briefly. "Not exactly. By the looks of it, we've got worse than him coming our way," the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki uttered, unleashing a wave of tense unease through the room.

"Say what?!" Kurotsuchi exclaimed, slamming her hands on the table. What the fuck was even going on? Less than a year and they now had to worry about invading alien species? When did shinobi matters become so damn complicated?

"And what does that mean?" Ay asked. While this news surprised him, he decided that a calmer approach was needed given the outburst of the Tsuchikage. He was furious as well, perhaps even more than Kurotsuchi, yet it wouldn't do well to have them all crazy.

"That's something I want to discuss once all five of the Kage are present. It's a lot of information to speak through and even more to explain the implications. If we're not careful with how we handle this, it could spiral the rest of the nations into dissent. That's why I wanna keep this as close to the chest as possible. The only reason I'm speaking on it right now is because it happened not even thirty minutes ago. I'm being upfront with you guys. Nothing good going to come from hiding anything from you. Just be prepared, we're gonna be here a while," the blond warned.

Having a moment to compose herself, Kurotsuchi leaned back. "Fucking dammit," she mumbled to herself. Honestly, she really wanted to give up this job. Unfortunately, she didn't believe her grandfather to be of the right mindset. He was still pretty bitter about such close relations between the nations, but he hadn't experienced what Kurotsuchi had. There were a few Iwa shinobi who shared his mindset, but the vast majority had no desire for war, already having an idea of where the consequences would lead them. The horror still kept some awake.

"What's our timetable?" Kurotsuchi then asked. At this point, she just wanted to rip the bandage off. Better to see the scar and know what to do than to simply pray and never know what you were dealing with.

Naruto paused momentarily. Hanabi and Yukimaru looked between everyone with apprehension. They suddenly felt very small considering everything.

"Let's just say I won't give you a guarantee it can't happen in as little as five years," Naruto claimed.

Kurotsuchi sucked her teeth. Just fucking great. "How is it that as soon as you show up everything turns to shit?" she inquired.

Naruto snorted. "Would you prefer I not be here?" he asked.

The Tsuchikage rolled her eyes, not even bothering to answer such a question. "Yeah, yeah. Alright, please go will I nurse this damn headache that I've got," she claimed.

Shrugging his shoulders, Naruto led his group out of the room. Left alone, Ay watched Kurotsuchi slam her forehead on the table. "Tsuchikage-sama, it's rude to bang your head on a table like that," Akatsuchi warned.

"...Fuck off. It's my office. I'll slam my head on whatever I want. Besides, I think I've earned it after the news we've been given," Kurotsuchi answered, her voice mumbled by the taste of sweet, wooden table. After a moment, she turned her head and looked out the window.

…Honestly, was this whole 'peace' thing really going to work out? What had to be done to just live happy, non-suffering lives?

"Raikage, you really think the guy's not gonna crack under all the pressure? Without him, we kinda have no prayer of lasting against these guys that are supposed to be coming," The young Tsuchikage claimed.

Surprised to find himself being addressed, the muscular Raikage looked at the young girl. Her tired look reminded him that she was barely even 17, not at the age to be handling such heavily political and international matters. Ordinarily, he would have thought her likely to step down. There was no shame in that. Sometimes, a young one wasn't ready for so much responsibility. Yet, other times… the circumstances forced them to be ready.

"An answer like that, only time will tell," The Raikage said, standing to his feet. With the matter concluded for now, he had to head to his own embassy building and settle matters for the meeting. He also needed to meet with several advisors.

Suffice to say, this was going to be a long one.

-x-

"I warn you but once, false god. Stay away from my summoner. Should I see your prophets stand before him again, I shall not be lenient," The Shinigami said, absently floating within the realm granted by the shadow that rested behind the light of his mother.

The Shinigami had seen the entire spectacle that came upon his summoner. In fact, the god of Death was aware that the two Otsutsuki prophets had always been there. He bothered not with telling his summoner simply because he knew that Naruto would not be ready to contend with such forces, at least not with putting his world at risk. The devastation would have destroyed his summoner's spirit and he wouldn't have been able to handle the future that followed.

The Shinigami also knew that the intruders meant what they said. They sought no engagement with Naruto. Doing so would have brought its own troubles on them, especially given that their existences couldn't stay in a place like Naruto's without distorting everything around it. The only thing that the Shinigami didn't know was the purpose of the false god in attempting to recruit his summoner.

However, more infuriating than the blatant disrespect that the Shinigami felt with trying to take his summoner away from him, it was the blatant disregard of his presence.

The false god remained seated in his temple, constantly meditating. That seemed to be all he'd done ever since he'd acquired the power to ascend to this plane. The Shinigami wasn't sure what his mother purposed in her heart to keep this being around. He was arrogant, a ruiner, and a usurper of authority. He made plans, and he never tried to hide them. Yet, his mother always calmed the Shinigami's inquiries with but a statement.

"Everything in its season, my son."

Even for the Shinigami, he found his mother's need of parables and roundabouts a little grating on the nerves. Yet, he always respected her opinion. After all, powerful though he was, he knew that even he was below this false god. Such a thought was irritating in and of itself. Only his mother had the might to keep him chained down. For how long was another concern.

"I hadn't given you authority to enter my chambers, Shinigami. Leave at once while I am lenient," the false god replied, his eyes closed and his thoughts centered. His hair, almost as if composed of lightning and celestial stars flowed behind his head. His robe was like bright fire while his face was as cold as the void.

"Your lenience is a non-factor. Though you stand in my mother's shadow, know that you have yet to ponder the very depths of eternity as I and my siblings have. Dare you to test me and provoke my summoner again, I shall show your prophets the depths by which cannot be fathomed," The Shinigami said, his eyes steeled on his target. Though no power was uttered between the both of them, the threat and implications held enough weight.

Having said his peace, The Shinigami turned around and set to leave this side of eternity's shadow.

"Tell me, Shinigami. Does the God of Death… fear the cold embrace of his own realm?" The false god inquired.

The Shinigami paused but a moment. His eyes hardened. A brief crack from his irritation appeared on the floor. Such a weight was more than enough to crush a planet into cosmic dust. He then closed his eyes momentarily, aware of what the false god was proclaiming against him. What did it mean… if even the God of Death should face death itself?

"Come when you wish and search the matter yourself," The Shinigami claimed before he left, vanishing without a single trace.

Understanding that he was alone, the false god opened his eyes, namely all three of them. The left eye was vastly different from the right, almost as if light and darkness were between them. The right was pupil-less, almost as if taken from the eye of a Hyuuga. In his third eye lay the Rinnegan. No, perhaps even something beyond the dojutsu wielded by the former leader of the Akatsuki.

Taking a moment to move, he scratched his beard, his fingers glazing through the hair as if he touched soft grass. The horns on his head, like a crown on a king, glimmered in the low light.

"...Uzumaki Naruto. The one being who seems to have gods and entities clamoring over you with every breath. Is not the sword heavy to swing for the one who sees not the target?" he asked, closing his eyes once again to ponder the mysteries beyond the mortal plane.

KG: And with this we are reaching the beginning, of the beginning, of the beginning, of the beginning... of the end, of the endgame! You thought Jashin was rough? HAHAHAHAAHAHAHA! We're going nuclear with this one, boys and girls!

KG: CHEESECAKE!