Naruto: After Seclusion Becoming Naruto Grandfather

" formal recognition?" Naruto scratched his head, his expression puzzled. These formalities were unfamiliar and somewhat esoteric to him.

Tsunade sighed, recognizing Naruto's confusion. Having witnessed the intricacies of Konoha's succession ceremonies, she was well-versed in the rules and regulations of legitimizing a village.

"It's like obtaining an official identity," Tsunade explained patiently. "It means the Fire Nation formally recognizes Shin-Konoha as a legitimate village. It doesn't hold much direct power, but it gives us protection on the surface. Other villages will have one less excuse to target us, and fewer enemies is always better."

Naruto nodded slowly. He didn't fully grasp the finer details, but he understood the gist. "So, basically, we need to visit the Fire Nation's Daimyo and get them to officially recognize Shin-Konoha, right?"

"That's the idea," Tsunade confirmed. Her expression darkened slightly. "But don't expect it to be smooth sailing. The old man—the Third Hokage—won't let us get there easily. There will be resistance, possibly even battles."

She tugged at her hair in frustration. Shin-Konoha was still growing, and their resources were stretched thin. Every ninja had their hands full.

Kakashi managed the garrison, ensuring Shin-Konoha's safety. Might Guy, along with Iruka and Anko, taught at the academy, training the next generation. Even Hanabi, Tenten, and Rock Lee were busy honing their skills under Guy's rigorous mentorship.

After considering the situation, Tsunade concluded, "Naruto, this mission will fall to you."

Naruto's eyes widened slightly. "Me? Alone?"

"Yes," Tsunade replied, nodding firmly. "This type of mission—representing the village to a Daimyo—is classified as S-rank. When you complete it, you'll officially have your first solo S-rank mission under your belt."

Naruto's surprise quickly turned into excitement. "No problem! Leave it to me!"

His eagerness didn't escape Tsunade, though she still hesitated. "Are you sure you don't want someone to go with you? I could pull Guy from his teaching duties to accompany you."

Naruto shook his head confidently. "No need! I can handle it alone."

His enthusiasm stemmed from his growth during Shin-Konoha's development. Naruto had pushed his limits, mastering the quasi-six-tailed state. Though he hadn't yet achieved perfect control, his power had increased significantly. He could now spar with Tsunade and hold his own, even suppressing her in some instances.

"If I ran into a Hyuga or even Jiraiya again, I wouldn't lose," Naruto thought with determination. "And if things get too tough, I can always escape."

As Naruto prepared to leave, Tsunade turned her attention to a voice that echoed in her mind. It was the ever-watchful Uzumaki Chito.

"Are you sure it's wise to let Naruto go alone?" she asked, her concern evident.

Chito's voice was calm but resolute. "The baby bird must learn to fly, not forever hide under the eagle's wing. Naruto has the strength to succeed, and it's time he tried."

The next words nearly made Tsunade faint.

"I left nine talisman jades embedded in his ninja belt. There's no one alive who can bully him now."

Tsunade froze, her lips parting in shock. "Nine talisman jades?! That's enough to destroy the ninja world!"

Shaking her head with a mix of disbelief and amusement, she muttered, "Lord Chito, you truly are a doting grandpa."

Naruto departed by waterway, heading toward the Land of Fire's territory. The journey required passing near Konoha, as the Land of Fire's Daimyo Mansion was situated a considerable distance from any village. Naruto could have avoided Konoha with a long detour, but he chose to travel directly, undeterred by the possibility of confrontation.

Meanwhile, in the Land of Sound, Orochimaru stood in his laboratory, admiring his handiwork—Sasuke Uchiha.

The Cursed Seal of Heaven was perfectly engraved onto Sasuke's body, the mark radiating dark energy from the back of his neck.

"With this, your combat power will increase significantly," Orochimaru mused, his voice filled with satisfaction. "But remember, the second form comes with severe side effects. Use it sparingly."

He released the chains restraining Sasuke. Almost immediately, Sasuke darted forward, his hand closing around Orochimaru's throat.

Orochimaru coughed, his snake-like tongue flicking as he grinned. "You wouldn't kill me, would you? Be warned—this power I've given you can just as easily be taken away."

Sasuke's grip tightened momentarily before he released Orochimaru with a shove, sending him to the floor.

"Tell me where Naruto is," Sasuke demanded, his voice cold and unwavering.

Orochimaru chuckled as he stood. "Is it necessary? You've grown stronger, yes, but Naruto isn't weak. With Uzumaki Chito's training, he's—"

"Stop wasting my time!" Sasuke snapped. "Tell me where he is, or I'll kill you right now."

Orochimaru's grin widened. He knew Sasuke doubted his ability to retract the curse's power. After all, Orochimaru himself showed no signs of bearing the Cursed Seal.

"Fine," Orochimaru said, dusting himself off. "Naruto is traveling to the Land of Fire's Daimyo Mansion. If you hurry, you can catch him."

Without another word, Sasuke left the laboratory, heading toward the Land of Fire.

Watching him leave, Orochimaru licked his lips, his golden eyes gleaming with malice. "Lord Chito, let's see who is stronger—my Cursed Seal or the Naruto you've trained."

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