Return

The next morning, we all woke up, feeling refreshed. After a quick workout to energize ourselves, we freshened up and gathered for breakfast. The meal was simple yet satisfying, shared in companionable silence as we prepared for the day ahead.

"Alright, it's time to go," I said, standing up as the meal concluded. "I'll return to Konoha soon, so don't worry."

With that, I used a transportation jutsu to send everyone except Sakura, Temari, and Koyuki back to Konoha.

Turning to the remaining two, I asked, "Are both of you ready to return to Suna?"

"Yes, Naruto," Sakura and Temari replied in unison, their expressions confident and ready for the journey.

Finally, I turned to Koyuki and smiled. "Bye, Koyuki. I'll return soon," I said, bidding her farewell as she waved back.

With our group now set, the three of us departed, heading toward Suna, ready to face whatever awaited us there.

Upon returning to Suna, the familiar warm winds greeted us as we stepped onto the sandy terrain near the village gates. Temari stretched slightly, her hand brushing back a strand of hair.

"Feels good to be back," she said, though her tone carried a hint of longing for our time together.

"Yeah, Suna has its charm," Sakura said, glancing at the looming sandstone structures ahead. "But it's a bit too dry for me. I'll take the trees of Konoha any day."

I chuckled at that. "Don't worry, Sakura. Once things settle down, we'll plan another trip somewhere greener."

As we walked into the village, the guards nodded respectfully at us. Temari led us through the bustling streets toward Rasa's office to update him on our return. Along the way, villagers greeted Temari with warm smiles and waves, their respect for her as a kunoichi and Rasa's daughter evident.

At the Kazekage's Office

When we entered Rasa's office, he was busy going through some scrolls. Seeing us, he set them aside and gave a nod. "Welcome back. I trust your trip to the Land of Snow was fruitful?"

"It was," I said, flashing a grin. "And don't worry, I made sure Temari didn't overindulge in leisure. She's as ready as ever to help Suna."

Temari rolled her eyes at my teasing but smirked. "Naruto, you talk as if I need supervision. Don't forget, I'm the one who supervises you."

Sakura chuckled, while Rasa looked slightly amused but quickly turned serious. "Naruto, I heard you're planning to return to Konoha soon. Is there anything you'd like to discuss before you leave?"

"Actually, yes," I said, my tone turning more serious. "I wanted to let you know about the Akatsuki organization and what I've learned so far. They're a potential threat, not just to Konoha but to all villages."

Rasa leaned forward, his attention fully on me. "Go on."

I quickly summarized what Itachi and Kisame had told me about the Akatsuki, their goals, and their leader, who calls himself "Pain." I also mentioned their connection to Amegakure and the potential involvement of Konan, one of Jiraiya's former students.

"An organization like that... operating in the shadows... It's concerning," Rasa said, his expression darkening. "Thank you for sharing this information. I'll ensure that Suna's defenses are prepared."

"Good," I said. "But don't underestimate them. They're not just powerful—they're smart. If you ever need help dealing with them, let me know."

Rasa nodded, a hint of respect in his gaze. "Understood. Now, Temari, Sakura, I trust you'll escort Naruto back to Konoha safely?"

"Of course," Temari said confidently.

On the Way Back to Konoha

As we traveled back, the mood was lighter. Sakura and Temari chatted about their respective villages, while I occasionally teased them to keep things lively.

When we finally approached the gates of Konoha, I felt a sense of relief and anticipation. There was still so much to do—training to control Kurama's chakra, preparing for future threats, and, of course, spending time with my loved ones.

"Home sweet home," I said with a grin as we passed through the gates. "Let's get to work."

"I'll go report about the negotiations to the Hokage. You guys can do whatever you want," Shikaku-ojisan said casually, standing up and stretching.

"Ojisan, I'll come with you to meet Tsuna," I said, deciding to accompany him.

"Sure, no problem, Naruto," he replied with a slight smile.

"Alright then, let's go," I said.

With that, we left for the Hokage's office. Some of the others returned to their homes, eager to rest after the journey, while others went off to take care of their own tasks. The streets of Konoha felt lively and familiar as we made our way toward the center of the village, ready to report on the progress we had made.

As Shikaku-ojisan and I made our way to the Hokage's office, the village bustled with its usual activity. Villagers and shinobi alike moved with purpose, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility growing within me. The path ahead of us was filled with uncertainty, but I was determined to walk it.

When we reached the Hokage's office, the door opened to reveal Tsunade sitting at her desk, papers scattered all over. She looked up as we entered, her expression both focused and slightly weary.

"Shikaku, Naruto, I assume the negotiations went well?" Tsunade asked, gesturing for us to sit down.

Shikaku nodded and pulled out a few scrolls from his pouch. "Yes, Hokage-sama. Everything went smoothly. The Sand Village is pleased with the terms, and we've secured a favorable alliance. It should help stabilize relations between our villages moving forward."

I sat down beside Shikaku, watching Tsunade closely. She seemed relieved but also deep in thought. "That's good news," she said, taking a moment to consider the implications. "This alliance will be crucial, especially with the threats that are still looming over us."

I leaned forward. "Is there anything specific we need to do next, Tsuna? Any missions or intel we should be preparing for?"

Tsunade sighed, looking over the reports before her. "There's always something to prepare for, Naruto. But for now, I want everyone to rest a little. We've been through a lot recently. You, especially, need to get ready for your training. Take this time to focus on your goals. We'll need your strength in the future."

Shikaku nodded in agreement. "We've got time. The village is stabilizing, and most of the pressing matters are taken care of for now."

Tsunade turned her gaze to me. "But Naruto, don't get too comfortable. We can't ignore what's happening outside the village. I trust you've been keeping an eye on the Akatsuki "

I nodded. "As,I said to u ,I'm planning on heading to Amegakure soon, to find out more about them. I need to understand what we're up against."

Shikaku gave me a knowing look. "A risky move, but I understand why you'd want to do it. Just make sure you're not rushing into danger."

Tsunade stood up from her desk and walked over to us. "Naruto, make sure you train hard, and don't forget to take care of yourself. We need you at your best."

I smiled. "Thanks, Tsuna. I won't forget."

With that, we stood and left the Hokage's office, knowing that there was still much work ahead, but also understanding that our village was slowly recovering, and the future held new challenges to face.